Woodstock Family Life 2-15 by Family Life Magazines

Contents

February 2015

Volume 2 | Issue 7

28-30 On the Cover:

Summit Financial Solutions

34-36 Financial & Real Estate Guide

38-40 Special Feature:

Top 7 Things to Ask a Wedding Planner

[28-30]

[34-36]

[38-40] 2

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

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

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

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

................... Senator Speaks

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

............. Community Partners

............................. Chamber

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

......... Main Street Woodstock

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Publisher’sPerspective

n the blur of today’s cultures, it may become necessary to reflect on the thoughts of forward thinkers from simpler times whose words were intended to better future

generations. The following is one of my personal favorites, “Desiderata,” displayed prominently in my office and in my home — I reflect on it often. Its historical origin is of

EDITORIAL Michelle Martin Michelle@FamilyLifePublications.com Cherryl Greenman Editor@FamilyLifePublications.com

Jack Tuszynski, publisher

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.

ART Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com Laurie Litke Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com George Colmant George@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jose Baez, State Senator Brandon Beach, Zach Blend, Nathan Brandon, Crystal Bryant, Cobb EMC, Jyl Craven, Corey Harkins, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Jenna Hill, Johnny Hunt, Peter Jungblut, Lorre LaMarca, Najia Lawrence, James E. Leake, Robbie Matiak, John Moreau, John Moss, E. Anthony Musarra, Vishant Nath, Jeff Nevison, Joseph Parker, Michael Petrosky, Preston Pooser, Erica Prewett, Janet Read, Gail Roos, Nick Roper, Juan Reyes, Dawn Sams, Mark Shriver, Melissa Whatley

Family Life Publishing Group Inc. 150 North Street, Suite A Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095

FamilyLifePublications.com FamilyLifePublications Woodstock Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. 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. Woodstock Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission from the Publisher. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. as

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question, but its purity and direction ring true.

“Desiderata”

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

m ag a zi

Calendar FEBRUARY

1-18

Cherokee County Farm Bureau Art Contest The Cherokee County Farm Bureau is encouraging students in 9th through 12th grade to enter the Farm Bureau Art Contest. First place county winners of the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Art Contest will receive a $100 Wal-Mart gift card and second place will receive a $75 Wal-Mart gift card. “Agriculture generates an annual total economic impact of $71.1 billion on Georgia’s $763.6 billion economy,” said William Grizzle County Farm Bureau president. “The purpose of the Farm Bureau Art Contest is to encourage students to increase their knowledge of Georgia agriculture and the contributions it makes to our lives every day.” Drawings

(camera ready - in black ink or dark soft lead pencil on 8-1/2 x 11 inch piece of white paper) will be judged on 1) how well the artwork represents modern agriculture found in Cherokee County or Georgia’s agriculture industry and 2) artistic merit. The Cherokee County Farm Bureau art contest winner will be entered in the Georgia Farm Bureau District 1 competition. All entries must be received at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office by Wednesday, February 18. Cherokee County Farm Bureau 770-479-1481 x 0.

Gospel Fest — Cherokee Arts Center will present Gospel Fest free to the public in the theatre. Visit cherokeearts.org for additional details. 7:00 p.m. Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244, info@ CherokeeArts.org

Through Fiber Arts & More Exhibit — February The Cherokee Arts Center will host the “Fiber Arts & More” exhibit through February 12th. Several skilled artists in this area will be featured, so make it a point to enrich your day with a visit! 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Tuesdays-Fridays; 12:00-5:00 p.m., Saturdays; Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244, CherokeeArts.org

CVD Free Screening — Northside Hospital’s Heart and Vascular Institute is offering a free screening to determine risk for heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease, or CVD. CVD remains the number one killer of Americans, according to the American Heart Association. A range of factors can raise your risk of developing CVD and having a heart attack or stroke. The more factors you have, the greater your risk. It is essential that you measure your risk for CVD and make a plan for how you can prevent it. The screening is free, but registration is required. 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Northside Hospital Doctors’ Centre, 980 Johnson Ferry Road, 3rd Floor, Atlanta. 404-845-5555 x 0.

Prostate Cancer Free Screening It’s estimated that more than 6,700 men in Georgia will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, according to the National Cancer Institute. It remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men, aside from skin cancer. To help raise awareness of the disease, Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute is offering a free prostate cancer screening to the community. The free screening will check adult men for symptoms of prostate cancer and offer prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and rectal exams at no charge. In addition to the prostate exams, health care professionals will offer free non-fasting glucose and cholesterol screening, blood pressure checks, cardiac continued on

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Library Events SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org Hickory Flat 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565 Rose Creek 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491 Woodstock 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859

STORY TIMES FAMILY STORY TIMES February 3, 24, 3:00 p.m., Rose Creek February 5, 26, 10:30 a.m., Hickory Flat, Woodstock February 5, 26, 3:30 p.m., Woodstock Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. These programs often feature stories, music, rhymes and a free craft activity. LAPSIT STORY TIMES February 4, 25, 10:30 a.m., Rose Creek, Woodstock

February 4, 25, 11:30 a.m., Woodstock Lapsit story times will be limited to the first 15 children (plus their caregiver) to arrive and the doors to the program will be closed when the program begins.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS FANCY NANCY SOIREE February 17, 4 p.m., Woodstock Children ages 3-8 are cordially invited to a Fancy Nancy soiree! Play stupendous games, enjoy a scrumptious snack, and make an exquisite craft inspired by our fabulous friend, Fancy Nancy! You are welcome to wear your most posh outfit and accessories! Call 770-926-5859 to register. continued on

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Library Continued . . . BOOKMARK BOOK CLUB February 17, 4 p.m., Woodstock Rack up 4 AR points and have fun doing it! Join us for a fun discussion about this month’s selection, “Fortunately, The Milk”, from award-winning author Neil Gaiman. We will discuss the book, make a craft, and play a game related to the book. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required. Call 770-479-3090 x 233 to sign up or for more information. DROP-IN CRAFTER-NOON February 17, 3:00-4:00 p.m., Woodstock School’s out so bust the boredom crafting the afternoon away! All materials will be provided. For all ages who enjoy crafting with paper, glue, and crayons. This drop-in program requires a participating adult.

ONGOING PROGRAMS INCOME TAX PREPARATION ASSISTANCE February 1, 8, 22, 2:00-6:00 p.m., Woodstock (call 404-509-2856 for appointment) February 28, 9:00 a.m.-5 p.m., Rose Creek George Russell, formerly with the Internal Revenue Service, will offer income tax return preparation assistance. READING DOGS February 3, 10, 17, 24, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hickory Flat February 4, 11, 25, 28, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Rose Creek February 11, 18, 25, 4:00-5:00 p.m., Woodstock Kids and dogs go together like books and reading. Letting a child read to a dog builds confidence by providing a friendly, furry and non-judgmental listener. Sessions for 10-15 minutes for ages 6 and up are available, but space is limited. Register by call the appropriate branch up to two weeks before the scheduled event. KNITTING INSTRUCTION February 3, 10, 17, 24, 1:00-2:00 p.m., Rose Creek Interested in learning how to knit? A retired teacher will share her knitting skills with others. Bring your yarn, knitting needles, and be prepared to have fun! Free. This group meets every Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. Call to register: 770-591-1491. WOODSTOCK LEGO CLUB February 15, 3:00 p.m., Woodstock The Lego Club has a different theme each month. Children can work alone or in teams to make their special creation, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. All ages, children under 9 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Calendar risk assessments, and diabetes prevention and general nutrition education. Qualified Spanish interpreters will be available on-site. This is a free event, but registration is required. 6:00-8:00 p.m., Northside/Alpharetta Medical Campus, 3400 Old Milton Parkway, Building C, Suite 100, Alpharetta. 404-845-5555 x 0, Northside.com

Gardening Seminar — The UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County will present a gardening seminar, Beautiful Birds of the South. Registration is required. 10:00 a.m., Hickory Flat Library, 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-721-7803

MARCH

1-4

Proclamation of the Word — St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church is hosting a Mission conducted by Redemptorist priest, Fr. Kevin MacDonald C.S.s. r. This event will begin after Mass (6:30 p.m.) on Sunday, March 1st and end on Wednesday, March 4th. Monday-Wednesday the event will start at 7:00 p.m. The community is invited to join in the proclamation of the Word, reflections, singing and praying together. This will be a grace-filled happening to experience in a special way the saving presence of God. St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church, 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 770-516-0009, SaintMichaelCC.org

Little River ES PTA River Run — This is the year to do something healthy for yourself while helping others. In the words of Danny Thomas, former actor and founder of St. Jude Research Hospital, “Someday, God willing, we are going to beat all the odds and make childhood cancer a thing of the past.” Little River Elementary PTA embraces this dream. Join them in support of the St. Jude Research Hospital by registering for their first ever 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, March 7 at 8 a.m. Not a runner? Sign up for the Fun Run which is perfect for kids, families and all abilities. It is less than a mile and you can walk, wheel or run your way around the track! Early registration ends February 28 so act quickly, you won’t want to miss out. For more information, go to LREPTA.org or register at Active.com.

Scan to submit your upcoming event! 8

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

The Pet Population Tailspin By Lorre LaMarca A topic near and dear to my heart is our overwhelming pet population, not only throughout the world but also right here in Cherokee County. Our shelters and rescue groups are bursting at the seams trying to keep up. Unfortunately, the pets left behind are still being euthanized by the masses. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sad but honest truth. There just are not enough homes and rescue groups to keep up with the reproduction of these innocent animals. If you are reading this, you can directly impact the lives of these animals through either foster or spay/ neutering your personal pets. Both can be of low or no cost (see information provided at the end of article). The first decision in pet ownership should be to spay or neuter your pet (unless you plan on responsibly breeding your pet, which includes finding responsible owners for its puppies). If

you never plan on breeding your pet, then please get them spayed or neutered. Here is why: An unspayed female dog, her mate and all of their puppies, if none are ever neutered or spayed up to: 1 year = 16 4 years = 2,048

2 years = 128 5 years = 12,288

3 years = 512 6 years = 67,000

Another way you can help is to consider fostering a rescue pet in your home. Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue out of Kennesaw (MostlyMutts.org) has a program set up to match your lifestyle and household with the perfect foster cat or dog. This is at no cost to you. Every foster home made for a pet enables more rescue groups to rescue more pets out of the shelters. There are so many ways to get involved, including volunteering, donating and simply just spreading the word about spay/neutering our pets. Imagine a community with spaces left open in the shelters and innocent animals all having a home. It can happen. Just believe and try to contribute.

There are so many low-cost and free community resources for spaying and neutering our pets. SpayNeuterCoalition.org includes a list of nearby resources. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too late to spay or neuter your pet.

Lorre LaMarca is owner of Bark Station in Woodstock. 770-517-9907, Bark-Station.com

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Business The Service League of Cherokee County recently Northside Cherokee Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is pleased to welcome Matthew Simmons, M.D., as the newest physician at its practice in Holly Springs. Dr. Simmons joins Dr. Stephanie Hsu and Dr. Travis Jones in providing full-service orthopedic medicine to patients of all ages. A graduate of The University of Mississippi, Dr. Simmons received his medical education at St. Matthews’ University School of Medicine in Grand Cayman, British West Indies. Dr. Simmons is board-certified in Family Medicine and has experience serving as team physician for numerous schools, including Louisiana State University, Southern University and Parkview Baptist High School. Dr. Simmons’ special interests include the prevention, evaluation and treatment of sports injuries, minimally-invasive and non-operative treatment modalities, management of sports-related concussions and management of medical conditions in the athletic population. Northside Cherokee Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is located at 684 Sixes Road, Suite 130, in Holly Springs. Free parking is available. For more information, visit www.northsidecherokeeortho. com. To schedule an appointment, call 770-517-6636.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

awarded a total of $50,000 to eight local charities and organizations in Cherokee County. Like the Service League, each of these organizations works diligently to serve the needy children of this community. Originally, the League committed up to $30,000 for the Community Impact Grant program, but due to the overwhelming success of the 30th annual Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival, as well as several of the organization’s other yearly fundraisers, the League was able to devote an additional $20,000 to these organizations to fund new ideas and projects aimed to serve children in Cherokee County. Grant recipients include Bethesda Community Clinic, Inc., Cherokee High School CHOICE Program, Cherokee Thanksgiving Ministry, The Children’s Haven, Inc., Goshen Valley Foundation, House of Hope, Living Bread Ministries, Inc., and Woodstock Elementary School. Established in 1935, the Service League of Cherokee County is a volunteer group of 100 women who work year-round, collectively volunteering more than 10,000 hours per year to raise funds for local needy children. Funds raised during fundraising events sponsored by the League, such as the

Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival, the annual Run for the Children “Reindeer Run” 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run and the Annual Ball and Dancing for the Children Celebrity Dance Challenge, provide necessities such as food, clothing, dental care, eyeglasses, medical care, scholarships and much more. To find out more about the work of the League, visit www.serviceleague.net. For more information regarding the Service League of Cherokee County, please contact League Publicity Chair, Millie Cline, at milliecline@hotmail.com.

The following representatives from each of these organizations were present to accept the awards. Front row (left to right): Sonya Breaux and Mary Minicucci, Woodstock Elementary School; Sherrie Poirrier, Living Bread Ministries, Inc.; Deidre Hollands, The Children’s Haven, Inc.; Wendy Graham, House of Hope; Debbie Murdoch, Cherokee High School CHOICE Program; and Delane Stevens from the Service League of Cherokee County. Back row: Chris Jackson, Jessica Ruiz and William Penniman, Woodstock Elementary School; Sharon McClurd, Living Bread Ministries, Inc.; Zach Blend, Goshen Valley Foundation; and Banks Brazell, Bethesda Community Clinic, Inc. Not Pictured: Cheryl Mosley from Cherokee Thanksgiving Ministry.

Georgia Eye Partners, a group practice of ophthalmologists and optometrists dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality of care, has recently opened its fourth office at 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 312. The company currently has offices at Northside, Emory Midtown and Johns Creek. The addition of this office provides the Woodstock, and surrounding communities, multiple levels of ophthalmology surgical services as well as comprehensive medical eye care. “We are excited to bring our physicians and staff to the community of Woodstock and the surrounding area,” said Georgia Eye Partners Managing Partner, Eugene Gabianelli, M.D. “this additional office allows us to offer top quality surgical services to the residents in the area.” Georgia Eye Partners services range from routine vision care to complex specialty surgical care. Surgical services include cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery, laser vision correction, corneal transplantation, blepharoplasty, ptosis correction, orbital fracture repair, lid lesion excision, and laser eye surgery for diabetes. A variety of cosmetic services including fractional laser resurfacing, Botox, and facial fillers are also offered. Patients with questions about the new office in Woodstock can call 404-953-4044 or visit www.GaEyePartners.com.

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Afib Heart Condition Causes Stroke New treatments available By Peter Jungblut, M.D., MBA enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain, obstructing blood flow at the end of an artery, which can cause a stroke.

Treatments Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is an abnormal rhythm of the heart, which can sometimes lead to a fast or accelerated heart rate. Millions of Americans experience Afib every year and some are at risk for serious medical complications and even stroke, which can lead to brain damage and death.

Who is at risk?

Afib is relatively common, affecting 2.3 million adults in the United States. Most people who develop Afib are over the age of 65, and it is more common in men. Afib is more prevalent in people with underlying heart disease due to long-standing high blood pressure, a previous heart attack, heart failure or heart valve disease. Other causes are alcohol and binge drinking (in this case, Afib is known as “holiday heart syndrome”), hyperthyroidism, medications like theophylline or caffeine, sleep apnea and a variety of lung diseases, such as emphysema. In Afib, the upper chambers of the heart contract erratically, sending blood into the ventricles in an uncoordinated way. This can also lead the lower chambers of the heart to contract at a faster rate than they normally would. Symptoms include palpitations, mild chest discomfort, lightheadedness, shortness of breath or fatigue.

Stroke

The most serious complication associated with Afib is stroke, and the risk grows as you age. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, or a prior stroke are at highest risk for Afib-related stroke. People with Afib have sluggish and erratic blood flow that causes blood clots. When a piece of the blood clot breaks off, it can

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Lowering Blood Clot Formation: The likelihood of clot formation can be lowered with the use of blood thinners. The traditional blood thinner requires frequent blood testing and dosing changes, which can make this treatment difficult to tolerate. Newer blood thinners work differently and don’t require regular tests. Not all patients are candidates for these medications, which are also costly, so it’s best to speak with your doctor to find the right medication for you. Cardioversion: Cardioversion is a treatment that attempts to return the heart to a regular rhythm with an electric current or medication. Paired with an antiarrhythmic drug, 50 percent of people undergoing this treatment will find their hearts beating normally after one year, so most patients undergoing this treatment take blood thinners indefinitely. Heart Rate Control: Heart rate control can be accomplished with medications or minimally invasive treatments, including radiofrequency ablation with or without pacemaker implantation, cryoablation, or other interventions like a maze procedure or convergent care now offered at WellStar Kennestone Hospital — the only hospital that performs this highly successful new procedure in Georgia. Afib rarely goes away on its own, and is often indicative of underlying heart disease. Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, patients have an increasing array of options for lowering risk for stroke and achieving a more normal heart rhythm.

Dr. Peter Jungblut is senior vice president and medical director of WellStar Medical Group. He holds a medical degree from Weill Cornell University Medical College.

Is a Generator

Good for Your Home? By Nick Roper

Have you prepared your home for the bitter winter weather? Most people think about home insulation, freezing water lines, outdoor pets and plants when winterizing their home. But, have you considered installing a generator at your home? Connecting a generator to your furnace and electrical panel could be one of your most important home investments. Whether it is gas or electric, the furnace will not work without power. If you make the initial investment for a standby generator, your power can be restored in a few seconds â&#x20AC;&#x201D; making you the most popular person on your street during a major power outage.

A standby generator has many benefits. It can run off of your natural gas or propane supply, conduct a weekly self-check to ensure that it is always ready, and, with some models, can be controlled with a smartphone, tablet or computer. There are many different makes and models, so do some research to determine which generator is best for your needs. Generac, a large manufacturer of generators, includes on its website a feature that will offer recommendations based on the size of your house and the items that you want to back up. Also, make sure to have a licensed, professional electrician handle the installation. A generator isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just a seasonal investment for when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cold. There are countless situations in which a standby

generator could save you throughout the year. Imagine that while you are on vacation a thunderstorm or tornado comes through your town, knocking out the power to your home for a day or two. Without a standby generator, everything in your refrigerator and freezer would be ruined. A generator could also keep your family safe, because when your power goes out so does your alarm system. This is a great benefit whether you are at home or traveling. The initial investment for a standby generator varies with the different types, sizes and features available. My advice would be to first get an installation estimate and choose a generator that will fit both your budget and home back-up needs.

Nick Roper is manager of business development for H&H Electric and Security LLC. 770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net

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Woodstock Minute

Improved Dupree Park Offers Multiple Outdoor Activities By Preston Pooser

upree Park, located at 513 Neese Road in Woodstock, has seen a lot of changes in the past few years. The 35-acre park, originally constructed in the mid-‘70s, features a 3-acre pond with rolling hills with pine trees and hard woods covering one third of the park. In 2010, the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Dept. consolidated two small play areas into one large playground and constructed handicap-accessible park restrooms. The existing picnic pavilion was demolished and a new modern pavilion was constructed in its place. The City later converted its two underutilized softball fields into 5 acres of multi-use greenspace. This past fall, the City of Woodstock opened its newest additions to the Greenprints Trail System at the park. These new trail amenities include the Dupree Park Fitness Trail and a Family Mountain Bike Trail. The Fitness Trail is a 1/3-mile-long, 8-foot-wide asphalt trail that encircles the 5-acre greenspace on the northwest corner of Fitness Trail the park. The trail runs along the outer edge of the greenspace, allowing the area to be utilized for soccer in the fall and other

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

events and programs throughout the year. Later this year, the City will install outdoor fitness equipment, benches, a water fountain, and other amenities at the fitness trail. The Family Mountain Bike Trail is a scaled-down version of typical mountain bike trail systems with the same trail use rules as the other networks in the Woodstock area. This provides an environment that allows young riders to practice navigating a trail map and following guidelines, such as the travel direction changing by the day of the week. The trails are designated as “easy” and are designed for beginner mountain bikers. The three main loops — “Lions,” “Tigers” and “Bears” — are beginner-friendly with a wide, smooth trail tread. The grades are very low, and the trails are meant to be fun at slower speeds. A short bike skills trail, “Oh My!,” also provides technical features designed to teach balance, control and bike handling. These are perfect trails for kids and novice off-road riders, as well as those getting back on the bike after a long hiatus from riding. There are several other additions to Dupree Park on the horizon. In the spring and summer of 2015, the City will construct a handicap-accessible overlook at the pond located in the middle of the park. This addition will allow older residents and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to access the pond more easily and fish.

Beginner Trail Dupree Park has four tennis courts that are scheduled to be resurfaced this summer. The existing tennis court fencing will also be repaired and replaced as needed during the renovation. Other improvements to the park will include new picnic tables, benches, sidewalks, and upgraded landscaping. The existing parking lot will be realigned and restriped.

Preston Pooser is director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Woodstock. 770-517-6788

Towne Lake Optimist Club Presents Check Cheryl Anderson, TurnAround Ministries was presented a check by Towne Lake Optimist Club to purchase a mobile cafeteria table for the children’s home. TurnAround Ministries is a non-profit organization that relies on private donations. Their mission is accomplished in a family environment of nurturing relationships through a holistic approach, addressing the children’s spiritual, physical, nutritional, academy and psychological health, utilizing groups and independent counseling, spiritual and devotional instruction, classroom and hands-on education, outreach and exit strategy. To learn more go to: turnaroundkids.com. If interested in helping, please email turnaround4399@bellsouth.net for a list of immediate needs.

Community Feature Reinhardt Professor Selected GMTA Teach of the Year Reinhardt University associate professor of music, Susan Naylor, was selected as the Georgia Music Teachers Association (GMTA) ‘Teacher of the Year’ for 2014-15. The award was presented to her at the GMTA State Conference at Clayton State University last November. Her name and supporting documentation will be submitted to the selection committee of Music Teachers National Association as a candidate for National Teacher of the Year, to be announced in March, 2015. Ms. Naylor was nominated by Linda Lokey from Cherokee Music Teachers Association, and letters of support came from her colleagues Dr. Dennis McIntire and Dr. Paula Thomas-Lee, and students Lily Freeman Bowman, Ashley Craig-Diaz, and Jessica Little Conklin. Judges were LaNelle Nash of Roswell, Dr. Martha Thomas of Athens, and David Watkins of Atlanta. As part of the honor of being chosen Teacher of the Year, Ms. Naylor submits Teaching Tips that are distributed to the members of GMTA at the State Conference and can be found, along with her bio, on the GMTA website at http://www.georgiamta.org/memberHonors-TOTY.php.

Congratulations to our January “7 Differences” winner, Rosalind Rosenburg!

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Community Feature Northside-Cherokee’s First 2015 Baby At 12:36 a.m. on January 1, Megan Key and fiancé Aaron Morris of Canton welcomed their first child into the world. Baby Elanor Elizabeth Key weighed in at 6 lbs, 2 oz, and was 20.5 inches long. She wasn’t due until January 7. According to the parents, Megan visited her doctor’s office on Wednesday and her blood pressure was a little high. Her doctor decided to go ahead and admit Megan to Megan Key and fiancé Aaron Morris with their the hospital and induce labor. Once new baby daughter, Elanor Elizabeth Key. contractions started, everything went very quickly; there wasn’t even time for an epidural. “While she was having her contractions, we were watching the ball drop and then sure enough about 36 minutes later we got blessed with a little,” said Aaron. “I guess we kinda watched a different ball drop on that one.” “It’s amazing,” said Megan about how it feels to be a new mom and seeing her baby for the first time. “God truly blessed me with her being healthy; I couldn’t have asked for anything better.” When asked about how this new year stacks up to previous ones, Megan said, “It’s the best one I’ve ever had.”

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Cobb EMC To Award 14 Scholarships Cobb EMC is proud to offer the newly established Cobb EMC Community Foundation Scholarship. The fourteen scholarships in the amount of $5,000 each will be awarded to eligible high school seniors with a primary residence served by Cobb EMC. There are two types of scholarships available: College/University and Vocational/Technical College. The annual scholarships are funded and will be administered by the Cobb EMC Community Foundation Board in May. Learn more at www.cobbemc. com/content/cobb-emc-communityfoundation-scholarship http://www. cobbemc.com/content/cobb-emccommunity-foundation-scholarship.

SenatorSpeaks

Georgia Must Invest in Infrastructure By Senator Brandon Beach

ince the Republicans became the majority in the General Assembly 12 years ago, we have done a great job of reducing the size and scope of government. Agencies are working with fewer people and fewer tax dollars. For example, 10 years ago GDOT had 10,000 employees; now, they have 3,900 employees. Our motor fuel dollars have also declined due to an unsustainable funding model. Eight years ago, GDOT collected $1.3 billion in state motor fuel taxes (7.5 cents a gallon). Now, GDOT collects $1 billion, a $300 million decrease in eight years. Why has this happened? Cars are getting better fuel economy and electric vehicles sales have increased while they do not pay motor fuel taxes. Our state is now the 8th largest in population — and continues to grow. Georgia has the 10th most mainline highway lanes in the nation and more than 14,000 bridges, but we are heavily dependent on federal highway funds (68 percent of our total funding is federal dollars). In contrast, the state of Florida is 27 percent federally funded. Why does this matter? When using federal dollars

for capital projects you must adhere to federal guidelines, which are cumbersome and time consuming. If Georgia and Florida were to start on the same project at the same time, Florida, by using state funds instead of federal funds, would finish their project three years ahead of Georgia, thus increasing the cost of our project compared to theirs. Florida uses their federal dollars for resurfacing and maintenance, which do not require adherence to federal guidelines. We are at a crossroads; we must wean ourselves off of the federal dollars. Recently, the joint House and Senate study committee analyzed future funding for infrastructure by traveling around the state and listening to taxpayers, including those from the three areas where T-SPLOST passed. After two years, taxpayers from all three T-SPLOST regions said they are happy that it passed, bringing “road improvements that would not have been done for 10 years.” The Mayor of Columbus testified and stated, “I was adamantly opposed to T-SPLOST, but, after I have seen the results, I would be the biggest cheerleader if it were on the ballot now.”

The committee agreed that we must lessen our dependence on federal dollars and add $1- $1.5 billion in state revenue to our current budget. We will begin putting a piece of legislation together based on several recommendations to address critical transportation funding. There is no one silver bullet that fixes our transportation needs; it will be a combination of several ideas. One thing is for sure: doing nothing is not an option. We cannot continue to kick the can down the road. We are going to need to show political courage and leadership and make some tough decisions. If we don’t address congestion, Georgia will no longer be focused on recruiting new jobs; Georgia will face a retention issue and jobs will leave our state. Investing in infrastructure is a sound investment that makes common sense!

Brandon Beach is a State Senator, District 21, who represents a portion of Cherokee County in the Georgia General Assembly.

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Community Feature Johnston ES Donates Funds to CCHS The Furry Friends Club at Johnston Elementary School recently sponsored a Hat Day charitable fundraiser. Students who donated $1 to benefit the Cherokee County Humane Society had the opportunity to wear a hat to school, and some students picked hats that celebrated furry friends!

Third-grade teacher Cristina Markley with students Tyler Shearer, left, and Sebastian Garcia.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

WHS Early Childhood Development Students Earn CPR/AED Certification Woodstock High School Early Childhood Development Career Pathway students are the first in the Cherokee County School District to earn adult and pediatric CPR/AED certification. Completing the requirements for both certifications is required for students who are earning career certifications to Front row (left to right): Students who have work with young children. earned the certification include: Isabel Horta, Twenty-eight students in Tyler Maczko, Ashley Van De Ryt, and Rachel teacher Heather Boltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rhodes. Middle row: Rebecca Velazquez, Ciara second- and third-year early Stowe, Ashley Casado, and Marina Buromskikh. childhood development Back row: Stephanie Velez, Erica Cofer, Emily classes took part in CPR Hamburg and Kayla Ousley. and fire safety training. Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services Safety Educator Sgt. Babette Davis and the American Heart Association provided training and assistance.

Marching Wolverines Heading to Dublin The Woodstock High School Marching Wolverines are excited to be preparing for their first ever international trip as they join marching ensembles from around the globe to provide the musical score for the St. Patrick’s Festival Parade on March 17th. Enjoyed by over 500,000 spectators, St. Patrick’s Festival is a 4-day celebration culminating with the parade from noon-2:00 p.m. through downtown Dublin. Woodstock High will be represented by 94 student musicians in the parade and 40 chaperones and family members will join them in a weeklong tour of Ireland. They are currently reaching out to the community to raise funds for this once in a lifetime experience. Anyone interested in sponsoring the band can donate at http://www.woodstockwolverineband.com/ or by emailing Tori Lawton at Tori wwbbtreasurer@comcast.net.

WES Employee of Month Woodstock Elementary School recently recognized first-grade teacher Tiffany Bearden as its Employee of the Month for January. She was nominated by a parent, who Left to right: Principal Kim Montalbano, expressed her PTA President Jennifer Maude and appreciation for the Employee of the Month first-grade education provided teacher Tiffany Bearden. to her daughter by Ms. Bearden. “My daughter had Mrs. Bearden as her firstgrade teacher and ’til this day she still raves about her,” the parent said in the nomination letter. “Not because she gave chocolate and lollipops, but because she inspired her and left a lasting impact. She continues to speak about her and consistently revisits the learning strategies that Mrs. Bearden has taught her. I can honestly say that Mrs. Bearden has left an irreplaceable life-changing impact on my daughter, and I am so grateful. She is really a gem.” Ms. Bearden was presented with a gift of appreciation by the school PTA.

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Hand Numbness

Tingling

and

By Jose Baez, M.D. Although carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is common, it is not always the cause of hand tingling and numbness. Compression neuropathy (local pressure on a nerve) can cause numbness in distinct patterns that follow the area supplied by the nerve. Additionally, the muscles controlled by the compression nerve may be weak, wasting or twitching. The pressure may result from: • • • • •

Thickened muscles Bands of connective tissue Enlarged blood vessels Ganglion cysts Arthritic spurs

Ulnar nerve compression at the wrist results in numbness and tingling of the little finger, part of the ring finger, and the little finger (ulnar side) of the palm. When ulnar nerve pressure is at the elbow, it causes numbness in the fingers and on the back of the ulnar side of the hand. Pressure on the radial nerve in the forearm or above the wrist can result in numbness over the back of the thumb, index finger, and the web between these two digits. When the media nerve is compressed at or below the elbow, numbness occurs not only in the same areas as in CTS but also over the palm at the base of the thumb.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Compression neuropathies may require surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves.

Causes of Hand Numbness Tingling (other than carpal tunnel)

Nerves in the hand and forearm originate in the neck. Arthritis may cause bone spurs or narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the nerves. Degenerating discs may press directly on the nerves at the spinal column or as they leave the spinal column and pass to the upper limbs. Other causes of pressure on the spinal cord include: •

• • •

Diseases of the central nervous system, like multiple sclerosis or stroke Infections Blood vessel abnormalities Other conditions of the spinal cord itself

Any of these conditions can result in numbness, tingling or aching in the arm, forearm or hand. You may also experience weakness and/or wasting of muscles or decreased reflexes in the arm and forearm.

Peripheral Neuropathy If symptoms are more diffused, meaning they occur in the hands and forearms (and

in the legs and feet), they may be caused by peripheral neuropathy. The pattern of numbness is usually generalized like the pattern of a glove. You may or may not experience pain, but the numbness may be constant. Causes of peripheral neuropathy include: • • • •

Diabetes Alcoholism Old age Poisoning from metal and industrial compounds

Other Causes of Hand Numbness and Tingling Certain medications, such as cancer drug treatments, can cause numbness and tingling, which often resolves after completion of chemotherapy treatment. Others may cause permanent numbness.

Diagnosing Hand Numbness and Tingling Further testing, such as an X-ray, MRI, nerve tests (such as EMG), or blood test, may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis before treatment recommendations are made.

Dr. Jose Baez is a physician with Atlanta Hand Specialist, located in Canton, Marietta, Smyrna, and Douglasville. 770-333-7888, AtlantaHandSpecialist.com

Pruning

Crapemyrtles By Gail Roos

Crapemyrtle, Lagerstroemia indica, native to China and Asia, is a favorite in our Georgia landscapes, prized for their lovely spring blooming. Crapemyrtles flower on new growth, so any pruning is done in late winter or early spring. Too early in the fall can cause a flush of new growth that will be damaged if there’s a freeze; too late in the spring will prevent blooming. Although crapemyrtles don’t need much pruning, there are reasons to prune: Do you want a tree shape, a medium shrub or a compact shrub? Your annual pruning depends on that desired shape and size. You’ll need hand pruners and loppers for the jobs. Start a tree shape as your crapemyrtle grows by selecting three to five stems at ground level, trimming off side branches about halfway up their height. As the plant gets taller, continue that limbing-up process; those stems become the trunks of your tree. Continue that as it grows to control how high you want the canopy. Regularly remove the suckers that grow from the base — they make your tree look messy. For a medium-sized shrub, leave more stems coming from ground level, then trim away stems smaller than the diameter of a pencil. Do this annually to maintain the size and to stimulate vigorous spring growth. For a compact shrub, begin early in the life of the plant to prune the stems back to about six inches above ground level each year before growth begins in the spring. For a compact or a medium shrub or for cleanup of an overgrown plant, the process will be about the same. Walk around the shrub, looking for any dead, diseased, crossing, damaged, or limbs growing inward. Then, do the cutting. If you want your cultivar to be 20 feet tall, you’ll be hard pressed to keep it small. Pick the right cultivar for the right spot. With very little care, you’ll have spectacular color every spring.

Gail Roos is a certified Master Gardener Extension Volunteer with Cherokee County Master Gardeners, part of the UGA Cooperative Extension. Contact the Cherokee County UGA Extension office for gardening assistance. 770-721-7803, CAES.UGA.edu/Extension/ Cherokee

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Tasteof by Melissa whatley

Ingredients

Strawberry Cake Mimi’s Pink

Cake

1 box white cake mix (not yellow or butter recipe) 1 small box strawberry Jell-O 2

cup frozen strawberries, sliced in syrup,

thawed and mashed

1 box 10x confectioner’s sugar 1 stick margarine or butter, softened

½ cup water

cup strawberries (usually left over from

1 cup vegetable oil

frozen package)

4 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring

1 tablespoon vanilla flavoring

Preparation

Mix cake mix and dry Jell-O. Add wet ingredients and follow mixing directions on cake mix box. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes for 9x13 pan, or approximately 35 minutes for 4 round cake pans (less for cupcakes). Turn cake out of pan and let cool completely.

Mix all ingredients for icing and spread over cake or cupcakes.

Recipe is from the “Gatherings & Traditions Cookbook,” produced by the Service League of Cherokee County. The Service League of Cherokee County has been working to meet the needs of the children of Cherokee County since 1935. In addition to the cookbook, the organization’s fundraising efforts include the annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival; “Run for the Children” 5K Walk/1-mile Fun Run; and Annual Ball, featuring the “Dancing for the Children” competition.” ServiceLeague.net

Icing

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

First Visit by the First Birthday By Vishant Nath, D.M.D.

One of the most commonly asked questions from parents of very young children is, “When do I need to bring my child for their first dental appointment?” Parents are often surprised to learn that the recommendation is that children see a dentist within six months of getting their first tooth. There are several reasons behind this recommendation. Just as it’s important early in your baby’s life to establish a trusting relationship with a pediatrician, it’s important to find a pediatric dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry promotes the “First Visit by the First Birthday” policy. As soon as your baby gets teeth, those teeth need to be cared for. Baby teeth

can develop tooth decay, so establishing habits for prevention of tooth decay is very important. Seeing a dentist early on will ensure that you have the information necessary to begin caring for these very important new teeth. Establishing twice-yearly dental visits can go a long way toward putting your child at ease in a dental office. Providing your child with positive experiences early on will help prevent anxiety associated with going to the dentist. Developing trust is a vital part of the dentist-patient relationship. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of time before a young child experiences some sort of trauma that involves the mouth. As with any emergency, it’s important to assess the nature of the trauma and decide if a visit to the emergency room is required. If there is damage to the mouth

area, and your child has already become a patient at a pediatric dental office, you have a “dental home” to take your child to for assessment, even if the accident occurs outside of normal office hours. Imagine how much easier this process could be if you already have a dentist that you and your child know and trust. Establishing a dental home early in your child’s life will help set the stage for a great relationship between your child and their dentist. As a result, you are setting the stage for great oral health care for your child!

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

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Community Partners By Zach Blend Goshen Valley Boys Ranch Executive Director

or the past 14 years, the Goshen Valley Foundation, through Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, has committed to serve young men struggling in the state foster care system. Goshen Valley has extended its passion to other areas of foster care and to reach older youth through North Georgia New Beginnings. Still, children continue to be neglected, abused and, many times, ripped away from their families, brothers and sisters, friends and schools. They find themselves in a strangerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home under the custody of the local Dept. of Family and Children Services (DFCS). In our ministry, Goshen Valley has had the unique opportunity to work with several sets of siblings and has found great success in keeping families together. We are excited to announce a new initiative that seeks to serve siblings within the foster care system: Goshen Homes. Many children brought into DFCS care are placed in homes away from those they love, causing more trauma in their lives, making reunification efforts with birth family more difficult and extended. These children are unable to live with their siblings for various reasons, such as age, gender, behaviors, and even foster home capacity. Goshen Homes, a subsidiary of Goshen Valley Foundation, is a licensed Child Placing Agency contracted with the Georgia DFCS. As a Child Placing Agency, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Foster Care Agency,â&#x20AC;? we partner with DFCS in Region 3 (Cherokee, Bartow, and surrounding counties) to provide homes for sibling groups that would otherwise not live together while in foster care.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Goshen Homes is designed to bring these siblings together in one home by providing professional services for the whole family through foster families, case managers, counselors and other professionals, with support through local churches and community partners. Bringing siblings together of different ages and with various needs can be challenging. However, with the appropriate training for caregivers, children and birth family, the likelihood for reunification improves, stabilizes the children and strengthens the family as a whole. Our professional staff, in partnership with DFCS, clinical services and the church community, can help overcome the challenges these families face. Our goal is to recruit families in close proximity to our agency in Canton (Region 3). We want to stay local with our families so we are able to support them in the foster care journey and provide adequate services to help stabilize siblings together in care. According to Region 3 DFCS, there are currently more than 100 children in foster care who are separated from their siblings. We believe keeping siblings together, while working with birth families, will help speed up the permanency goal of reunification or adoption. There are many opportunities to provide assistance, including providing financial support and becoming involved as a Goshen Homes family. Contact Donnis Steele for more information: DSteele@GoshenValley.org.

Goshen Valley.org 404-788-1732

Winter Weather Storm Tips Are you prepared for winter weather rolling in? In the event of a major storm, being prepared can help save your life or, at the very least, make you much more comfortable when disaster strikes. Stay safe and ready with these helpful tips for winter storms and power outages: • Don’t find yourself in the dark. Keep flashlights in multiple rooms and fluorescent camping lanterns on hand. They’re much safer than candles when you have children and pets running around in the house. • Keep informed. When TVs and computers aren’t working, battery-

powered radios can keep you informed and battery-powered TVs can keep you entertained. • Stay connected. Unless a storm takes down your phone line, landlines should still work, although cordless models will eventually run out of charge. Keep cell phones fully charged and avoid heavy use once the power goes out, as it can quickly drain battery life. • Think safety. If you decide to use gas-powered generators, make sure they are kept outside, as the exhaust can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. • Be prepared. Pack an emergency

kit, including a three-day supply of food and water, tools, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered weather radio and other items in a waterproof container. Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy

These winter weather tips were provided by Cobb EMC, a nonfor-profit electric cooperative. 770-429-2100, CobbEMC.com

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Brides: 3 Tips for the Ideal

“I Do” Hairdo

By Jyl Craven

low side, wraparound, sleek or even a ponytail in an intricate braid to complement this traditional wedding look. Also, consider these wedding-day hair do’s and don’ts before you say “I do”:

Face Shape: Your wedding-day hair should not only highlight the cut of your dress but also complement the shape of your face. You and your stylist should experiment with the height and distribution of your hair to find the perfect look.

Accessories: Choose a veil or flowers to carry on an age-old tradition, or add a little bling with tiaras, headbands or pins. Top off your lustrous locks with the right accessories to finish your weddingday look. The dress is fitted, the flowers are ordered. But, how will you do your hair? Take these three wedding-day hair “I do’s” into consideration when picking your perfect hairstyle for your special day: LIFESTYLE

The Romantic Bride: If you chose a halter dress or a bridal gown with spaghetti straps or no straps at all, you’ve chosen a soft, romantic look. You’re a blushing bride, so complement the look with a loose, romantic wave slightly pulled back, or hair that is loosely pulled up. Cap the romantic look with a soft fringe or tendrils of hair around the face. Your guests will swoon at the romance of it all. The Elegant Bride: All brides are elegant, of course, but a high-neck 26

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

or V-neck dress is the height of sophistication. In this style of gown, your hair should be up off of your shoulders to avoid disturbing the neckline. The French twist and the chignon are excellent choices to complement a high-neck or V-neck dress. Plus, both styles are so versatile that you’ll have plenty of different hair looks from which to choose.

The Traditional Bride: If you choose a gown with full styles and sleeves, also choose a slim hairstyle. One flexible option you might not have considered is a sleek ponytail. While a ponytail may sound at first like a leisurely approach to weddingday hair, there are actually many gorgeous style options. Consider a

Hair Health: Nothing is more radiant than healthy hair. But, chances are you’ll be stressed and frazzled before your big day, so don’t forget to eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. You will feel better and your hair will appear nourished and stunning. Your hairstyle is, of course, only one small part of your big day — but a vital one. Pick a hairstyle you’ll love to think back on as you look at pictures and cherish your memories for years to come! L

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

Family Planning By Najia Lawrence, M.D. As we embark on a new year it is important to start planning for the future. This often involves financial planning, special event planning, and even family planning. It is well known that approximately half of all pregnancies in the United States are unintended. It is therefore important to have pre-pregnancy care to address planned, as well as notso-planned pregnancies. This care would include education and screening of potential risks for both mothers and babies. Although most pregnancies result in good outcomes, some pregnancies may result in adverse outcomes. Some of these outcomes cannot be prevented; therefore, optimizing a woman’s health and knowledge before planning and conceiving a pregnancy — also referred to as preconception care or pre-pregnancy care — may eliminate or reduce the risk. For example, taking prenatal vitamins at least one month before pregnancy reduces the incidence of certain birth defects. Similarly, a low-sugar diet for a woman with diabetes before and throughout pregnancy can decrease adverse outcomes, such as miscarriage. When seeking pre-pregnancy care, it is important to discuss certain issues with a health care provider; such issues include immunization history, medication exposure in early pregnancy, nutritional issues, family history of genetic risks, tobacco and substance use, occupational and environmental exposures, and mental health issues. Women should speak to their doctor to formulate a health plan that will help address their reproductive needs, whether they would like to have children or not. The plan should also address the optimal number, spacing and timing of children, as well as age-related changes in fertility. Birth control options can be discussed if children are not desired. Plans change over time, so this health assessment and evaluation should be an ongoing process with your health care provider. Because your capacity to reproduce spans almost four decades, optimizing your health before and between pregnancies is a long-term commitment that requires working together as a team to ensure the best care for women.

Dr. Najia Lawrence is an OB/GYN with Falany & Hulse Women’s Center, located in Canton. 770-720-8551, FalanyAndHulse.com

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COVER STORY

By Michelle Martin Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net

A Driving Force in Your Financial Success

another tax season gets underway, it is important for business owners and individuals to be aware of increasingly complex and confusing tax codes. Joseph Parker and his

team at Summit Financial Solutions in Woodstock offer a variety of financial, business and tax planning services to help clients not only minimize their tax liability but also develop a strategy for growing their businesses, saving for both short-term and long-term goals, and financial planning. As Mr. Parker explains, “Summit Financial Solutions offers comprehensive planning services by experienced, qualified professionals who take time to understand clients’ individual needs, offer informed solutions and essentially become their partner in helping them reach their financial goals.”

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Mr. Parker is president and executive tax director of Summit Financial Services, which has served businesses and individuals in Cherokee County and surrounding areas since 1989. He joined Summit Financial Solutions in 2002, while studying accounting and finance at Kennesaw State University.

Business Planning & Services As an experienced business owner himself, Mr. Parker understands firsthand the critical role that strategic planning plays in the success of any business, big or small. “More than anything, I think of myself as a business consultant and part-time CFO,” he says. Mr. Parker works closely with business owners to help them manage inventory, taxes, and employee levels within a range that is affordable and maintainable. “I can look at the company objectively, in black and white, and identify where savings are possible, and help business owners get to the next level. My goal is to implement a system that they can manage themselves, like a well-oiled machine that just needs routine maintenance.” Mr. Parker spends time with clients to understand their specific situation, then he makes recommendations that will work for them. As he explains, “Every business and every business owner is different, so what works for one company may not work for another. My job is to get to know businesses and business owners individually, and to anticipate what their next five steps are and help them plan to reach their goals.” Mr. Parker has found that, like in most areas of life, business owners are creatures of habit and hesitant to implement big

changes in how they’ve operated. “In some instances, it’s simply a matter of finding a solution within their comfort zone. While they might see bigger savings and growth potential from bigger changes, they’re willing to accept the tradeoff of doing what works for them,” he says. “The key is learning what is important to them.” Summit Financial Systems also assists with payroll administration or trains business owners to use recommended software programs for managing payroll in-house.

Tax Preparation & Planning Mr. Parker is an Enrolled Agent with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the highest credential given outside the agency. All Enrolled Agents must pass a three-part test covering individual and business tax laws, and complete 72 hours of continuing education courses every three years. As an Enrolled Agent, Mr. Parker has the authority to represent taxpayers and to serve as Power of Attorney in IRS matters. New and changing tax laws each year make tax filing increasingly difficult. “On average, individuals will spend 33 hours preparing an itemized tax

return with interest and dividends on their own,” Mr. Parker says. “Using an ‘over-the-counter’ tax software program will require, on average, an additional 10 hours.” Through proactive tax planning and preparation, Summit Financial Solutions can help minimize your tax liability in current and future tax years. “The world is full of tax preparers who can complete the necessary forms by the tax deadline, but what are they doing to help you save money?” Mr. Parker asks. “At Summit, we will examine your situation and records to determine what benefits you the most — filing jointly or separately; timing the sale of assets; identifying applicable deductions and credits.”

Tips for Choosing a Tax Preparer Mr. Parker recommends doing your homework when choosing a tax professional. “Just as it is a bad idea to hire a home-repair contractor or a nanny without doing a personalneeds assessment and careful investigation, it is never wise to hire a tax professional without doing the same,” he says. “Never base your decision solely on cost.”

Tax Preparation & Planning Strategic Business Planning Individual & Corporate Services Payroll & Bookkeeping Services

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Thank You For Voting Us

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The complexity of your tax return.

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Your occupation or industry. Does the preparer have specialized training in dealing with your tax situation (i.e. small businesses, elder issues, rental real estate activities, etc.)?

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Do you feel that they are trustworthy with your private information?

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Do they help you with clear, professional answers to your questions? If you are a business client, do they help with businessrelated planning as well?

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Is future financial advice important to you?

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If the IRS questions something or audits your return, will they be available after tax season? Is this an included service or will it be an additional charge?

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How long has the preparer been in the tax business?

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What is the fee structure? Do they charge a flat rate or by the form? Never use a preparer who advertises large refunds or whose fee is based on a percentage of your refund. Beware of preparers who offer a low quote to get you in the door and then charge by the line entry. Large cookie-cutter firms that pop up on every corner at tax time do not necessarily offer the

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Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

provide training and updates on tax court decisions. •

Is the preparer a long-time member of your community? Consider what that says about their reliability, loyalty, and trustworthiness. Length of time in business often parallels business skills.

“There is a lot of responsibility that comes with signing a tax return,” Mr. Parker adds. “Tax preparers who aren’t willing to sign a tax return aren’t worth your risk. After all, it’s your name, finances, and peace of mind at stake.”

1816 Eagle Drive Building 100, Suite A Woodstock 770-928-8100 SFSGA.com

This Valentine’s Day, Show Love

for Family and Friends, Too

By Crystal Bryant Ever since I got a Facebook account many years ago, my primary use has been two-fold. All of our family and a lot of our friends live in other cities and states, so it has been a great tool for quickly and easily keeping in touch, sharing photos of growing children, news of our current church family, activities and such. I also use Facebook to share my faith or humor, as I love to brighten someone’s day with a joke or light-hearted word. I had a friend tell me recently that she was thinking about taking some time away from Facebook. She is a fairly recent divorcee, and she shared with me something I had not before considered about social media.

What I hadn’t considered is how easily my attempt to share a blessing in my life could cast a shadow on someone else, bringing to the surface a place of hurt or need in their life. For example, my friend shared with me that Valentine’s Day is especially troublesome when you are single and “alone,” because the entire month of February is focused around the notion of romance and love of a significant other. The conversation with my friend brought to mind one of my favorite writers of the Bible, who spoke of his great love to friends, churches, colleagues and apprentices. And he

was “alone” his entire life. I am quite confident that he would tell us that he lived a very fulfilled life, traveling the world teaching and preaching, gaining new friendships everywhere he went. I can honestly say that I love more people than I can number. So, this month, for those of us who are “attached,” let’s not forget all the people who bring meaning to our lives. And, for those who are single, keep close in mind and heart all the love of friends and family — which is every bit as important. And, perhaps we could spend this month looking for someone new with whom we could share the pure, unfailing love of Christ. With Christ, we’re never alone!

Crystal Bryant is the wife of Pastor Chris Bryant at City On A Hill United Methodist Church in Woodstock. She is involved in women’s, prayer and children’s ministries. 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org

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Care Choices for Senior Adults

By Nathan Brandon

LIFESTYLE Senior adults have many services and options now that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exist even 15 years ago. Families can select from an array of choices for the health and welfare of their parents. Cherokee County is fortunate to have many such choices. Depending upon the needs of the senior, they can move into communities with independent living arrangements all the way up to full 24/7 nursing care.

Senior apartment communities exist for those who do not wish to maintain their home any longer. These communities offer independent living with amenities suitable for seniors, including a fitness center and activities director. Often times, senior apartments have a 24-hour lobby and meal plan, which is helpful in maintaining balanced nutrition. Senior apartment communities are private pay and do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid. Assisted living communities provide additional services to enable seniors to live as independently as possible. The services are based on Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Everything from grooming to walking is considered when looking for the right amount of assistance. Each resident has a personal care plan suited to meet their needs while still offering as much independence as possible. These communities provide 24/7 watchful oversight in order to maintain a safe environment. Some assisted living communities offer memory care for residents needing special attention. Assisted living communities are also private pay, although some veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s benefits apply. Aid and attendance benefits are provided for living expenses if the veteran was on active duty during a conflict. Nursing homes provide skilled nursing care when such services are necessary. Staffs consist of certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. Many nursing homes have the services of a physician to oversee the daily medical needs of the patients. Each nursing home establishes a care plan based on desired outcomes of individual patients, which determines the level of individual care. These issues, and many others, present a challenge for those who are responsible for the care of senior adults. Explore the many resources for seniors and senior care available today to assist in your family needs. L

Nathan Brandon is director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 770-479-7438, CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Life Insurance: You Do It for

Love By Jeff Nevison

Life Insurance — the term itself is somewhat of a verbal irony. I insure my life so that if I die, others may benefit. The bible says, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” To most, love is about feelings, passion, intimacy, fulfillment and sacrifice. According to “urban dictionary,” “Love is the greatest gift God ever gave to man.” Love is giving without any thought of getting. God created love and initiated a love relationship with us even before we loved Him. He extends His kindness even when we are undeserving of His love. Love can only be understood from the actions it prompts. Love compels us to

give so that we alleviate the suffering of others. When we love, instead of seeking to fulfill our own emotional and physical needs, we humbly and willingly give of ourselves. Love is eternally faithful.

Took me to musicals even though he didn’t like them, Carried my bags while I did the shopping, Held my hand.

Life insurance is about love and has been a critical part of the love story for many. Life insurance is about those you love who will still be here when you aren’t. It is a gift of financial security that you can leave so that your loved ones can continue to live out the dreams that you shared and helped to foster — dreams that when fulfilled will cause the ones you loved to look through tears and say, “Thank you! We did it! Thank you for making our dreams come true! Thank you for loving me!”

He died of cancer four years ago.

I recently read the following at Lifehappens.org: Because he loved me, He did the dishes, Rubbed my feet, Surprised me with tulips,

Because he loved me, I can stay in our home. I can be here for our children. I can afford to pay for their college education. I can worry about the other things in life besides money. He still loves me. And he still shows it. Life Insurance: You do it for Love. Resources: AllAboutGod.com, UrbanDictionary.com, LifeHappens.org

Jeff Nevison is the co-owner/ managing agent of Mountain Lakes Insurance. 770-926-9444, MountainLakesInsurance.com

WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

Choosing a

Divorce Attorney By Mark O. Shriver, IV

hen dissolving a marriage, dividing up property, and determining custody issues, it is imperative to carefully choose the right divorce attorney. Considering the following can save you thousands of dollars and a great deal of stress and frustration.

Experience: There is a vast amount of case law, statutes, and local rules specific to family law matters, and it is important to hire an experienced family law attorney who knows these laws and procedures like the back of their hand. This is not the time to hire your friend who is a real estate attorney or the attorney who did a great job with your speeding ticket.

Philosophy of Practice: No one knows your family and situation better than yourself, so it is often best to agree to your own settlement than to leave decisions regarding such personal matters to the judge. An attorney who works hard to help the parties cooperate with one another to reach a satisfactory settlement can facilitate a much more affordable and less stressful divorce, often with a better result, than an attorney who promotes a highly adversarial process.

Location: Don’t hire an attorney who practices mostly in Gwinnett if your divorce case is in Cobb or Cherokee County. It is important that your attorney be familiar with the local rules, judges, mediators, and other attorneys in the county of your divorce.

Your Comfort Level: If you feel an attorney lacks empathy, doesn’t listen to your concerns, or for any other reason makes you feel uncomfortable trusting them with your family matters, then they are not the right attorney for your case. Responsiveness: Adequate staff is necessary to address any urgent issue if your lawyer is tied up in court or mediation. You also will want an attorney who returns your calls within a reasonable amount of time and doesn’t allow your case to drag on unnecessarily. Divorce is an inherently stressful process, and choosing the wrong attorney can add to that stress. Consider these factors to help you choose the right attorney for your divorce case.

The Shriver Law Firm 301 Creekstone Ridge, Woodstock 770-926-7326, ShriverLaw.com 34

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Tips for

Buying & Selling a Home By Dawn Sams

uying and selling a home can be stressful, so it’s important to choose the right Realtor.

Here is a quick look at some of the things to consider when buying a home: 1. Save money for your down payment. The typical down payment is 3-5% or more of the sales price. 2. Sometimes your closing cost can be negotiated into the deal, but you should be prepared to pay it in case that doesn’t happen. Typical closing costs run 3-6% and varies between lenders and type of loan. 3. Don’t go out and buy a new car or that sofa you have had your eye on. Keeping your debts down will allow you more buying power. 4. Talk to a lender and get prequalified. You don’t want to find the perfect house and then realize it’s out of your budget. Most Realtors work closely with several different lenders and can help you find the right one for your needs. Lenders will also check your credit, so there is no need for you to do that in advance.

Some things to consider when selling: 1. Work with a Realtor who has knowledge of the area and market. 2. What kind of marketing plan do they have? 3. Will they help you to get the house ready for sale? Some agents will stage your home for better showings, which can result in a higher sales price. 4. Do they work with local vendors if your home needs repairs before listing? 5. How long have they been in the business and are they a top producer or a part-time agent? Negotiating the terms of an offer, inspections, repairs, appraisals and closing attorneys are some of things that have to be handled for a smooth transaction. The market is constantly changing, so having an experienced professional to work through the small details and important negotiations is crucial.

Dawn Sams, Realtor Atlanta Communities 770-893-8835, DawnSams.com

Selecting the Banker for Your Business or Professional Practice By John S. Moreau

hat qualities should a business or professional practice consider when choosing a bank? When you initially look at banks, they look remarkably similar. Too often, business owners may look at banks from a transactional point of view, when they should be looking at their choice of banks from a relationship perspective. Using technology, small banks and large banks are on a level playing field when it comes to products. The difference in banks is ultimately dependent on the human side of the equation, rather than the technological or product side. Therefore, instead of selecting a bank, you should select a banker. What should your criteria be? First, you want a banker who is knowledgeable. Second, you want a banker who is responsive and reliable. Finally, you want a banker who is empathetic and who will listen. The banker you select will have a relationship to your business like a physician has with his patient. Your banker should be the professional on whom you rely to diagnose the financial health of your business. While it is understandable that many business owners first think about large banks because of their omnipresent branch systems, you may be pleasantly surprised if you evaluate bankers at community banks. Most community bankers concluded that climbing a corporate hierarchy is not the most important thing in life. Rather, they found that developing long-term professional relationships is more rewarding. The bank they each represent may have been organized with a mission to serve small business owners. Remember that you are looking for a professional who is knowledgeable, responsive, reliable, empathetic, and who values your confidentiality. You would not expect less from your attorney, accountant, or doctor; why should you accept less from your banker?

Don’t Be Fooled by Fake IRS Emails or Letters By Joseph Parker, president/executive tax director

very year, taxpayers are bombarded with emails and letters claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and asking for personal information. The subject titles on many of these emails suggest the IRS is trying to contact you because they have a refund for you. These are commonly referred to as phishing scams. Phishing is a term used to describe emails that are “fishing for information” and “hooking” victims. The content of these messages “lure” readers into believing that the IRS needs information from them. The IRS has issued several recent consumer warnings on the fraudulent use of the IRS name or logo by scammers trying to gain access to consumers’ financial information in order to steal their identity and assets through emails and letters. These scam messages are used to trick consumers into providing sensitive information. Fraudsters typically request bank information or credit card numbers so consumers can “pay their tax due” or “receive their refunds.” Unsuspecting persons become victims of identity theft. What do you need to know to keep safe? The IRS will never request financial information, passwords, PINs or any other sensitive information from you via email. The IRS sends paper notices to taxpayers to discuss tax account information. Never provide your bank information to someone via email! If you ever receive one of these phishing emails, do not reply! Do not open any attachments — they might contain malicious code that could infect your computer. Also, do not click any links provided in the email. These websites could also give your computer a virus or malware. More information regarding phishing and online scams can be found at IRS.gov/UAC/Report-Phishing.

John S. Moreau is Market President of Hamilton State Bank — North Region. 770-345-7500

Contact your Paid Tax Preparer Summit Financial Solutions 1816 Eagle Drive, Building 100, Suite A, Woodstock 770-928-8100, SFSGA.com WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

Financial Categories

Realtor

Dawn Sams 770-893-8835, DawnSams.com

Attorney

The Shriver Law Firm 770-926-7326, ShriverLaw.com

Financial Planner

Summit Financial Solutions 770-928-8100, SFSGa.com

CPA/Bookkeeping/Tax Service

Financial Institution/Bank/Credit Union

Jeff Jackson, CPA

Hamilton State Bank

678-919-1250, JJacksonCPA.com

770-924-4300, HamiltonStateBank.com

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

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Wedding Planner

NADIA D PHOTOGRAPHY

Top 7 Things to Ask a

By Erica Prewett

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming for the bride and groom to-be and their families. You may be wondering where to start, how to budget, and what elements you can realistically pull off, or if your grand ideas for your big day could land you in the Top 10 of #pinterestfail countdowns. With more than 10 years’ experience producing more than 300 weddings and events, I’ve got great stories for days. Here are my top questions to keep in mind when choosing or working with a wedding planner:

1 How much will you personally work

with the wedding planner? Some planners book lots of brides and grooms, but the couple doesn’t get to meet or work with the actual person in charge of planning the wedding until the walk-through (or the rehearsal — or, in some instances, even the wedding day). This is detrimental to the whole wedding experience because the wedding planner and client relationship is very similar to the relationship the couple should have with the photographer. A high level of comfort with each other and a high level of trust are imperative for a smooth, successful wedding day.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

2 Can you use your own outside

vendors, or does the wedding planner only work with preferred vendors? Some wedding planners prefer to work exclusively with their own vendors. Typically, there is a higher level of trust internally on the vendor side if the planner and vendor have worked together before (even once is good) and things tend to go more smoothly if the couple uses a team that already knows everyone. Any solid planner will be able to create a rapport and professional relationship with any professional vendor you decide to hire.

But, what if your friend or family member can make gorgeous arrangements and has offered to do your wedding flowers? How sweet of her to offer! You certainly have that right to use whomever you wish. Remember, though, most non-professional vendors aren’t used to the intricate, high stress, and time-sensitive nature of weddings. We once had a friend of the bride’s family offer to do the flowers for the wedding and the reception. She had flown in the week of the wedding, picked up all of the supplies, and was on the right track — until she overslept on the wedding morning and then had a flat tire on the way to the setup! We had to enlist friends, extended family and extra planning staff to get the flowers done and the room cleaned up before the reception started. While the bride may have saved money on not hiring a florist, several of her friends and family who had flown across the country missed the wedding ceremony because they were on flower duty.

PHOTOJACK.NET

A professional builds in backup plans and is generally faster at creating arrangements that have to be built on site.

4 How can you know if you’re being

charged a fair amount, or are getting an up-charged “wedding” fee? This was a big source of conversation a couple of years ago. Couples were getting the impression that vendors up-charged their services just because the couple said the word “wedding.” The answer is you are getting the wedding price, and it is still fair. The same amount of flour, sugar, and icing goes into a cake that serves 175 for a kid’s birthday party as does a wedding cake, right? So, why are wedding cakes more expensive? The level of detail, importance to be “perfect,” and, oftentimes, the design of the wedding cake requires someone with vastly more skill and experience to produce than a kid’s sheet cake. The wedding cake designer, because they have more experience, costs more to the bakery company. Also, the emotion of “there’s only one opportunity to get it right” plays into the fee.

5 Why is your preferred wedding date already booked everywhere? May, June and October are the busiest

ALTMIX PHOTOGRAPHY

wedding months in the Atlanta area, because the weather is just so gorgeous. If you were lucky enough to get engaged this past holiday season and want to book a venue in these popular months, be flexible with a non-Saturday date. Venues (and vendors) often give discounts or upgrades to weekday, Friday night, or Sunday weddings.

6 How much should this shindig cost?

According to CostOfWedding.com, couples who live in or travel to Fulton County spend between $22,031 and $36,719, on average, for their wedding, which includes about 175 guests. Keep in mind the elements that are most important, as that’s where a bulk of the money should go. While having fun and a great band are high on the list, guests also expect a satiating dinner. A wedding planner can help identify how much money should go toward each area while still giving your guests a really great experience that doesn’t send them home hungry and heading to the nearest fast food drive-thru.

7 If you’re an organized person already,

do you even need a wedding planner? That depends on how much you and your mom would like to spend enjoying the day versus worrying if the cake has arrived, if

the minister signed the marriage license, etc. If a planner like Jennifer Lopez from the movie “The Wedding Planner” is not in your budget, consider hiring a “month-of coordinator.” This person will be involved 45-60 days before the wedding and help tie up the loose ends; schedule final meetings with the venue, caterer and florist; create the wedding weekend timeline; and be there to manage the day so that your mom can get her hair done with the girls. Above all, remember that you are not planning a wedding. You are planning the first day of your married life together! The two of you are planning a marriage celebration. That’s what is most important! Erica Prewett is a Queen of Checklists, Saver of Time, Master of Logistics, and Helper of Flower Girls. She owns A Big To Do Event. You can ask Erica any of the above questions APHY R G O (or make up your own) PHOT MAR Y DEK F F U B at either 404-547-5712 or Erica@ABigToDoEvent.com. You can get some great ideas for your wedding on Pinterest at Pinterest.com/ABigToDoEvent. Also, see more of Erica’s stories for days on Facebook at Facebook. com/ABigToDoEvent, and on Twitter at Twitter. com/ChecklistQueen. WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

Wedding Categories

Venue

Venue 92 770-330-2672, Venue92.com

Flower Shop

Brendas House of Flowers 770-926-3306, BrendasHouseOf Flowers.com

Bridal Shop

David’s Bridal #62 770-795-9989, DavidsBridal.com

Hair Salon

Jewelers

Clark Salon

Art Jewelers

770-479-0052, ClarkSalon.com

770-924-3133, ArtJewelersOnline.com

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

0 Degrees 10-12 lbs

15 Degrees 27 lbs

30 Degrees 40 lbs

45 Degrees 49 lbs

60 Degrees 60 lbs

OMG! Hunching Over Smart Devices Stresses Neck Poor Posture Causing ‘Text Neck’ By John J. Moss, Image courtesy of Dr. Kenneth Hansraj Here’s a “text” to save you a lot of neck pain. When using your smartphone or tablet, avoid tilting your head for prolonged periods of time.

pounds, or the weight of four bowling balls or a 7-year-old child, according to data published by Dr. Kenneth Hansraj in the National Library of Medicine.

As people around the world use their smartphones and tablets more and more, spine experts are seeing an increase in neck pain complaints.

The average smartphone and tablet users spend two to four hours per day hunched over, reading e-mails, surfing the Internet, playing games, sending texts or checking social media sites. That’s 700-1,400 hours per year putting stress on the spine.

But how bad is it? Well, in the upright or neutral position, the human head weighs about a dozen pounds. As the neck bends forward and down, the weight on the cervical spine begins to increase. At a 15-degree angle, this weight is about 27 pounds, or the equivalent of two bowling balls. At 30 degrees, it’s 40 pounds; at 45 degrees, it’s 49 pounds; and at 60 degrees, it’s 60

It’s no secret that correct posture is better for your back. But this poor habit, sometimes called “text neck,” can lead to early wear and tear on the spine, degeneration and may even lead to surgery. Your spine is your body’s natural shock

absorber. When you scrunch it up (or over, as the case may be), you force the muscles and ligaments in your neck, back, shoulders and legs to compensate. Making them work out of their natural position makes you more prone to injury. Be a smarter user of your smart device by pulling your device up more and looking down with your eyes instead of tilting your head. Also, pay attention to your posture.

Dr. John J. Moss is the medical director at the Northside Spine and Pain Treatment Center in Cherokee County. Dr. Moss has experience treating chronic neck pain, chronic back pain, neuropathic pain and a variety of other conditions. Northside Hospital Spine and Pain Treatment Center is located at 120 Oakside Court, Suite A, in Canton. For more information about conditions of the spine and available treatment options, visit Northside.com/SpineCenter or call 404-459-1809 to schedule an appointment.

WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM

Ribbon Cuttings

Cherokee Tennis Center 155 Brooke Blvd. Woodstock 770-592-4582 Recreation

Little River Family Dental 12201 Hwy. 92, Suite G Woodstock 678-202-4904 Dentists

US Renal Care 3753 Marietta Hwy., Suite 100 Canton 678-710-0970 Health Care

Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant 2210 Holly Springs Pkwy. Holly Springs 770-345-4265 Restaurants

Nationwide Insurance â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Mayo Agency, LLC 157 Reinhardt College Pkwy., Ste. 300 Canton 770-704-5000 Insurance

Next Step Ministries Inc. 7709 Turner Road Woodstock 770-592-1227 Nonprofit Organizations

2015 Series Presented by: AT&T

Tuesday, February 24, 2015 4:30-6:00 p.m. Sponsored by:

Bank of North Georgia Located at:

300 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 RSVP by 5:00 p.m. on February 20. There is no charge to attend.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Thursday, March 5, 2015 7:00 a.m. Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center Cherokee County Administration Building, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton Advanced Registration: $15 On-Site Registration: $20 Future Members: $25 RSVP by 3:00 p.m. on March 3. Sponsored by:

Edward Jones Investments

2015 Series Presented by: AT&T

Tuesday, March 24, 2015 4:30-6:00 p.m. Sponsored by:

Thomas Eye Group Located at:

149 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 102 Woodstock, GA 30188 RSVP by 5:00 p.m. on March 20. There is no charge to attend.

in the

limelight

Cherokee Angel Adult Day Center Cherokee Angel Adult Day Center, the No.1 place for seniors, is a community-based organization dedicated to helping seniors stay active in the community while providing assurance and mental freedom to their caregivers. Our main goal is to ensure that our seniors receive the supportive care they need and remain vibrant and social. Services provided in the program are comprehensive and based on membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; individual needs. The program offers safe group environments with coordinated health and social services aimed at stabilizing and/or improving self care. Our program is planned

and supervised by a registered nurse with at least 15 years of experience with adult and geriatric population. The Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objective is to provide family caregivers peace of mind that their parents or other loved ones are in safe hands. We offer simplified and coordinated care to allow you to spend quality time with your aging parents, instead of feeling stressed and overwhelmed caring for them. Our seniors receive an intermediate level of care between full-time nursing care and supervised daily care, thereby delaying the need for costly

hospitalization or other care and institutionalization. At Cherokee Angel Adult Day Center, we promote camaraderie. We want to ensure that seniors remain at home with family and friends. Cherokee Angel Adult Day Center 3353 Trickum Rd., Suite 104 Woodstock, GA 30188 678-880-0884 / 678-949-6900 Info@CherokeeAngelSC.com CherokeeAngelSC.com

Cover Photo Jeep Provided By

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Scott McIntyre:

Muralist and Musician On top of that, I had to paint fast, and the final piece needed to be appealing from various angles.”

ArtistProfile by Heike Hellmann-Brown

Scott McIntyre’s murals can be found from the West Coast of California to the kingdom of Jordan, halfway around the world. McIntyre grew up in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla., and knew early on that he wanted to be an artist. “In second grade, teachers requested my help to create bulletin boards for their classes. It was a talent that helped me to get out of math class,” McIntyre jokes. His parents cultivated his artistic skills by sending him to art camps and planning vacations around visiting a Frank Lloyd Wright house or seeing an Andrew Wyeth painting. Later, McIntyre earned a scholarship and graduated with a BFA degree from the Atlanta College of Art. McIntyre’s first job allowed him to decorate window backdrops for Elizabeth Taylor’s “White Diamonds” perfume launch and Evander Holyfield’s book presentation at Macy’s. Additionally, he instructed students at Emory University’s theater department in faux finishing and marbleizing techniques. “Set design taught me to paint big,” McIntyre recalls. “With the whole stage as my canvas and a 4-inch brush in my hand, I learned to create depth with perspective and color.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Soon McIntyre was approached by interior designers. One of his earliest clients was actor Alan Thicke, who flew him out to Los Angeles to paint his son’s room. McIntyre continued to enhance multimillion-dollar homes, but ultimately missed the artistic control that other projects offered. His recent works have included painting a mural in the Media Center of Mt. Bethel Elementary School in Marietta and commissioned paintings for a multitude of venues, including churches, restaurants, bars, and assisted living communities. Still, McIntyre cherishes his work at local schools. “Painting during school hours gives students the chance to observe a visiting artist,” he notes. For schools in need of financing such a large project McIntyre developed “Legacy Murals.” During a PTA-event, he explains, students can use a laser pointer to choose a location on the mural where their name will be hidden, for a nominal fee. This program not only finances the mural costs but also raises PTA funds for years to come. McIntyre’s style is inspired by the realism of Andrew Wyeth and the storytelling of Norman Rockwell. His murals grace interior and exterior walls and will last for decades. In 2011, McIntyre was invited by the Jordan River Foundation to guide 20 young artists in painting a mural in the Royal Village of Zarqa. “Murals touch people,” McIntyre says of his dedication. “They create a feeling of belonging and leave a lasting impact. Murals make this world a better place.” McIntyre is also a seasoned musician who learned playing stand-up bass from Trigger Alpert of the original Glenn Miller Band. Currently, McIntyre plays an energetic mix of early New Orleans-style jazz in The Jugtime Ragband. “One day I hope to implement ‘Legacy Murals’ worldwide while performing with the band at international venues — letting the beauty of what I love be what I do.”

McIntyreMurals.com

Change Can Be Good The month of February is a busy time for the Cherokee County School District (CCSD) office staff. I often refer to it as the “principal shuffle.” Between Thanksgiving and mid-January, many teachers and administrators make their final decisions about the following school year. We usually see a large number of resignations and retirements for teachers and administrators on the January and February meeting agendas. When a principal or assistant principal decides to retire or move, this often starts a domino effect. Our deputy superintendent and our assistant superintendent work closely to determine where there will be administrative openings. They also work diligently to determine the best candidate for each administrative position. We are fortunate in Cherokee

By Janet Read

County to have the CCSD Leadership Academy, created by our superintendent. The various levels of this successful program offer teachers the opportunity to learn more about the job of an assistant principal and to offer assistant principals the chance to learn more about the requirements and responsibilities of a principal. The most successful administrators are those who have worked with several other administrators. That is one reason that assistant principals may be reassigned to another school. This gives them the chance to work with not only different management styles but also in different schools within our district. We believe this makes for a well-rounded administrator. Sometimes, administrators have a certain strength or ability that might

be needed at a different school at a particular time. When that is the case, we are fortunate that we can move those folks to a school that can benefit from their expertise. No matter if “your” principal or assistant principal is staying at their same school, changing schools or being promoted, you can be sure of one thing: Our district staff, along with the approval of the school board, will place each and every administrator where they can use their strengths and be successful. If “your” principal has decided to retire, please do me a favor. Wish him/her good luck in this next chapter of their life…and give his/her replacement a chance. You might be surprised at the results!

Janet Read is chair of the CCSD board. 770-516-1444, Janet.Read@Cherokee.K12.GA.us

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Lots to Love

in Downtown Woodstock in February By Jenna Hill

ebruary in Downtown Woodstock is not only about Valentine’s Day, which is on a Saturday this year. The City of Woodstock also celebrates Arbor Day this month, on February 20. Arbor Day in Georgia is observed each year on the third Friday in February. National Arbor Day is in April, but it is too warm in April to plant trees in Georgia. Trees should be planted between November and mid-March in Georgia, so they will have a better chance of becoming established before the onset of summer heat. In celebration of Arbor Day, the City of Woodstock will be giving away 800 tree seedlings. These include a variety of choices. A free booklet with very important tree care info will also be available. Seedlings and Tree Care Guides can be picked up 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., February 20, at the following locations:

Woodstock Senior Center

Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store

223 Arnold Mill Rd.

8588 Main St.

If you are looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Downtown Woodstock this year, you will not be disappointed. Stores and restaurants will be offering specials, and since it is during the weekend, you can make a day of it! Start off by perusing the stores in Downtown Woodstock, or maybe a walk along the Town to Creek Trail. Enjoy the beautiful scenery the trail has to offer! You could also take a ride on The Woodstock Trolley. For those of you who have never ridden the trolley, I highly recommend it. It is a very convenient and fun way to get around. There are plans on expanding the destination stops, possibly into the Towne Lake area. For more information about The Woodstock Trolley, please visit DowntownWoodstock. org/Woodstock-Trolley. End your Valentine’s Day with dinner at a great restaurant, many of which offer special menu items just for the occasion. Celebrate both Arbor Day and Valentine’s Day this year in Downtown Woodstock!

City Hall Annex 12453 Hwy. 92

Woodstock’s Magnolia Hall (Behind Magnolia Thomas Restaurant)

108 Arnold Mill Rd.

For more information about the Arbor Day celebration, please call 770-924-0406.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Jenna Hill is Tourism Information Assistant at the Woodstock Visitors Center. 770-924-0406, WhatsUpWoodstock.com

Want a Flatter Tummy for

Valentine’s Day? By Drs. Musarra, Leake, Petrosky & Harkins Don’t be afraid of the mirror. Tummies are one of the hardest areas to keep in line. Why does the food around the holidays have the highest calorie count and taste the best, and why isn’t exercise really as fun as it looks on the TV or workout videos? Even worse, why is motherhood rewarded with stretch marks and a pooch that will not go away no matter how many sit-ups you do? These are all the reasons why the tummy tuck has become such a popular procedure. Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as “tummy tuck,” is a cosmetic procedure for both women and men who wish to achieve a flatter, well-toned abdomen. Removing excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restoring weakened or separated muscles will create an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer, something for which many of us strive. Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and saggy. A number of factors contribute to an unflattering waistline or an unattractive tummy. The most common causes are weight gain, pregnancy, aging, heredity and prior surgery. Another alternative to surgery is CoolSculpt, the only FDAcleared nonsurgical fat-reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to eliminate stubborn fat. CoolSculpting is a completely noninvasive way to lose those small pockets of fat around the body. The procedure takes one hour and patients often read, work on their computers, or answer emails. Lay back, relax and let the system do its work! Every body is different. Tailoring the treatment to each body and curve is the key to true transformation.

No more chocolates, no more flowers…give your Valentine a gift they really want. As with any procedure you are considering, make sure your consultation is with a specialty trained board-certified plastic surgeon.

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

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Savings with a

Programmable Thermostat

By Robbie Matiak Homeowners are always on the lookout for ways to decrease their energy bills; simply changing your thermostat could net significant savings over the year, based on local power rates and the current efficiency of your home’s HVAC system. Several older homes may still have manual thermostats. Manual thermostats require you to remember to adjust the temperature yourself according to your family’s busy schedule. Based on the family schedule you may be required to make this adjustment several times a day. Manually adjusting the thermostat could be overlooked in your busy routines, causing you to cool or heat your home while away — resulting in wasted energy — or waking up uncomfortably to a room that is too hot or too cold. Programmable thermostats operate automatically based on a program set to match your family’s busy schedule; the need to manually adjust the thermostat around your schedule is eliminated. Programmable thermostats are a good investment for your home, as they save you money over time. Energy Star-qualified thermostats may bring you even more savings because these models are required to adhere to higher standards regarding energy efficiency. Programmable thermostats, such as the Honeywell FocusPro 6000®, come preprogrammed with schedules, or you can override these and establish specific day-by-day schedules to maximize your unit’s efficiency based on your family’s needs. Based on Honeywell’s energysavings information, the FocusPro 6000® could save you up to $143 per year. 48

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Many of the programmable thermostats today also have WiFi connectivity. Honeywell’s VisionPro 8000® allows you to make changes remotely with your Smart devices or computer to your home’s HVAC system in order to maximize both comfort and efficiency. Based on Honeywell’s energy-savings information, the VisionPro 8000® could save you up to $143 per year. In addition to the energy savings from the increased efficiency from heating or cooling space only when it’s occupied, your local power provider may also offer rebates for installing programmable thermostats. For example, Georgia Power customers may be eligible to receive up to a $100 rebate for upgrading from a standard thermostat to a programmable thermostat. Visit

Residential.GeorgiaPower.com for more information. Sawnee EMC will pay a $5 incentive for submitting proof of programming your thermostat to Energy Star guidelines. Visit Sawnee.com for more information. Visit your specific power provider’s website for more detailed information. Installing a programmable thermostat is a convenient way to save on energy bills without sacrificing your family’s comfort.

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

You’ve Got a By Johnny M. Hunt

Friend

The other day I was listening to the radio in my car, and the Carole King song, “You’ve Got a Friend,” started playing. “You just call out my name/ And you know wherever I am/I’ll come running to see you again.” Do any of your friends come to mind when you read those lyrics? It got me thinking how many songs and poems are written about friendship, and it’s no wonder…friendship can transcend even family. Just because two people are related does not guarantee a close relationship. We know we can’t choose our family, but we can choose our friends. I’m extremely grateful to God that he has blessed me richly in the area of friendship. But, forming that deep, tenacious bond with someone doesn’t always come easy. It takes time, trust, and weathering through life’s storms together. The Bible has a lot of help to offer on this topic. The Proverb writer tells us “a man who has friends must himself be friendly.” Just like material wealth will not come knocking on my door if I sit at home and do nothing, I must put out the effort to make friends. In fact, Jesus even told His followers that the best use of their money was to make friends (Luke 16:9). Through faith, the Old Testament patriarch Abraham was called a friend of God. By virtue of that same faith, Jesus changed the customary teacher/student relationship between Himself and His followers: “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends.” Have you ever thought of Christ as a friend? Walter Winchell is noted for saying, “A friend is one who walks in when everyone else has walked out.” Jesus’ gift to His friends is this, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Here’s my bottom line: When all else fails, true friends never do. The Proverb writer declares, “There is a friend that stays closer than a brother.” Cherish your earthly friends, and if you’re a follower of Christ, know that you’ve got the greatest friend.

Johnny Hunt is senior pastor of First Baptist Church Woodstock. 770-926-4428, FBCW.org

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Ingredients

Preparation

12 of the freshest oysters available (shucked on the half shell)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

4 pieces applewood smoked bacon (chopped) 1 shallot (finely diced) 4 cups fresh spinach (chopped) 1 cup fresh watercrest (picked, no stems) ½ cup fresh flat leaf parsley (picked, no stems) ¼ cup Pernod ½ cup heavy cream ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated) Salt and pepper to taste

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Rockefeller Topping:

In a sauté pan cook chopped bacon until crisp, remove bacon from pan. Add shallots and cook for 1 minute. Add Pernod and cook for 1 minute. Add spinach, parsley and watercrest and cook for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and cook for 1 minute. Add ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and cook for 30 seconds. Salt and pepper to taste. Add Rockefeller topping to each oyster and top with crisp bacon and remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake for six minutes or until done.

Choosing a New Roof: How Long Will It Last? By Juan Reyes

The roof is one of the most important components of your home, and keeping it in good shape should be a priority. There are many roofing options on the market, and each has its pros and cons. In terms of longevity, some are far better than others; but, when you take price, appearance, installation, and required maintenance into consideration, some choices that might not immediately seem like the most practical end up being a perfect fit. Asphalt Shingle Roofs: Given that this is the most common roofing system in the country, you may be familiar with asphalt roofing and its benefits. Since it is often far less expensive than other roofing materials, it is almost expected that it will have a shorter lifespan.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

Depending on the quality of the shingle, you can expect an asphalt roof to remain in good shape for 15-20 years. It is considered a relatively low-maintenance material, but, like anything else, no roof is completely maintenance-free. Lengthening the lifespan of a shingle roof will require regular inspections and simple yearly maintenance, and could help your roof perform just fine for a few decades. Metal Roofs: These roof systems are extremely low-maintenance. Generally, they carry a 20- to 40-year warranty, but many last for even longer. There isn’t much you need to worry about as far as extending the life of your metal roof, but how you install it can make a difference in how long it will last.

Though more expensive metal roofing products might seem like an unnecessary expense initially, they often pay off in the long run. Roof Inspections: One factor that can play a huge role in how long your roof lasts and how expensive the required maintenance will be is a roof inspection. Even the best roofs can sometimes be breached during heavy storms or other unforeseen, traumatic events. In many cases, the damage isn’t noticeable to someone who isn’t trained to spot it. By getting regular roof inspections, you’ll be able to identify small problems before they become large ones; this means lower maintenance bills for you, and a longer life for your roof, too!

Juan Reyes is owner of Pro Roofing & Siding. 770-777-1733, MyProRoofing. com

Religious

Services Baptist Calvary Baptist 137 Hightower Rd., Ball Ground 770-887-6982, CalvaryBaptistWeb.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Cherokee Baptist Church 7770 Hickory Flat Hwy., Woodstock 770-720-3399, CherokeeBaptistChurch.org Sunday Services: 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Community Baptist Church 152 Rolling Hills Ave., Canton Community-Baptist-Church.com Sunday Service: 1:30 p.m.

Cross Roads Community Church 2317 Bascomb Carmel Rd., Woodstock 770-592-7007 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Cross Roads Primitive Baptist Church 770-710-1068, CrossroadsPBC.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Faith Community Church

Welcome All Baptist Church 545 Stell Rd., Woodstock 404-210-7130

Woodstock First Baptist Church 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428, FBCW.org Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Catholic Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church 2941 Sam Nelson Rd., Canton 770-479-8923, LaSaletteCanton.com Sunday Services: 8:00, 10:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (Español)

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-516-0009, SaintMichaelCC.org Sunday Services: 7:30, 9:00, 11:00 a.m., 12:45, 5:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. (Español)

Episcopal Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church

Orthodox St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church 2263 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-485-0504, StElizabethGA.org Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Methodist Bascomb United Methodist Church 2295 Bascomb Carmel Rd., Woodstock 770-926-9755, BascombUMC.org Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Big Springs United Methodist 2066 Sugar Pike Rd., Woodstock 770-475-1796 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

City On A Hill: A United Methodist Church 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org Sunday Services: 9:35 & 11:15 a.m.

Hickory Flat United Methodist Church

2135 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 404-395-5003, CTRCEC.com Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

4056 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-345-5969, HickoryFlat.org Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:30 a.m.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation

Hillside United Methodist Church

131 Mill St., Woodstock 770-928-1334

1673 Jamerson Rd., Marietta 770-928-7916, AnnunciationEpiscopal.org Sunday Services: 8:30, 10:00 a.m.

4474 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-924-4777, HillsideUMC.org Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Mount Zion Baptist Church

Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church

Liberty Hill Church

669 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-516-1996, FaithCommunityChurch.org Sunday Services: 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church

4096 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-479-3324, MTZB.org Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Mountain View Baptist Church 8991 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-880-0871, MV-Batist.com Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

New Home Baptist Church Corner of Hwy. 92 & Wiley Bridge Rd., Woodstock

New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8448, NewVicBaptist.org Sunday Service: 10:50 a.m.

South Cherokee Baptist Church 7504 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422

Stonecrest Baptist Church 485 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8820, StonecrestBaptist.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Toonigh Baptist Church 4999 Old Hwy. 5, Lebanon 770-928-2491 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

2795 Ridge Rd., Canton 770-345-6722, StClementsCanton.org Sunday Services: 8:00, 9:00, 11:00 a.m.

Jewish Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Rd. NW, Ste. 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702, JewishWoodstock.com Introductory Service: 1st Shabbat of each month at 11:00 a.m.; Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat of each month at 10:30 a.m.

Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation Contact us for High Holiday service times & dates 678-264-8575, MyNerTamid.org

Lutheran Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA 1208 Rose Creek Dr., Woodstock 770-924-7286, GoodShepherdWoodstock.org Sunday Services: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Timothy Lutheran Church (LC-MS) 556 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-928-2812, TLCWoodstock.org Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920, LibertyHillUMC.org Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Little River United Methodist Church 12455 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495, LittleRiverUMC.info Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Mount Gilead United Methodist Church 889 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-0837 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Mountain View United Methodist Church 2300 Jamerson Rd., Marietta 770-928-0050, MVUMC.org Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Woodstock United Methodist Church 109 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-516-0371, GBGM-UMC.org/WoodstockUMC-GA Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Non-denominational BridgePointe Church 230 Arnold Mill Rd., Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977, BridgePointeChurch.org Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.

Presbyterian Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA 1498 Johnson Brady Rd., Canton 770-704-9594, Cherokee-PCA.org Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Christ Covenant Presbyterian of Woodstock (PCA) Meets in the Rec Center of Cherokee County’s Smith L. Johnson South Annex Complex in Woodstock 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock 770-926-1196, CC-PCA.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Grace Church, PCA 1160 Butterworth Rd., Canton 770-265-5811, GraceCanton.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-926-3558, HeritagePres.com Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11:10 a.m.

Woodstock Presbyterian Church 345 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-0074 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Other Churches Allen Temple, AME Church 232 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-6348, AllenTempleAME.org Sunday Services: 8:00 & 11:00 a.m., Nursery available

AllPoints Community Church 6884 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton 770-704-0945, AllPointsChurch.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Bells Ferry Church of God 6718 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-592-2956, BellsFerry.com Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Rd., Acworth 770-917-4964, BranchesOfChrist.com Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Canton Church of Christ 1168 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton 706-299-1347, CantonChurchOfChrist.com Sunday Services: 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist 101 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-7304, Cherokee.NetAdvent.org Saturday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta 6464 Hwy. 92, Acworth 770-924-9161, CTKAtlanta.com

Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Ste. 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193, NGCA.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 3459 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-720-9574 Sunday Service: 1:00 p.m.

Church of the Messiah 415 Charles Cox Dr., Canton 770-479-5280, ChurchOfTheMessiah.net Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Cornerstone Community Church 503 Hickory Ridge Trl., Ste. 160, Woodstock CCChurchOnline.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Covenant Christian Center 330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Dr., Canton 770-345-0307, CityOfCovenant.org Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Covenant of Peace Ministries 604 Industrial Ct., Woodstock 770-821-8972, CovenantOfPeace.org Sunday Service: 12:00 p.m.

Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Dr., Acworth 770-516-5733, Dayspring-Online.com Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation 2799 Holly Springs Rd., Marietta 770-578-1533, EmersonUU.org Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Empowerment Tabernacle Christian Church 507 Industrial Dr., Woodstock 770-928-7478, EmpowermentTabernacle.com Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Grace Life Church 655 Molly Lane, Ste. 140, Woodstock 404-509-3397, GraceLifeOnline.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Greater Bethel Community Church 211 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-592-9900 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Hickory Flat Church of God 947 Bailey Rd., Woodstock 678-691-9165 Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

His Hands Church 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500, HisHandsChurch.com Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Rd. Acworth 404-663-1828, LoveCommunityChurch.org Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Mt. Paran North Canton Campus Meets at Sequoyah High School, 4485 Hickory Rd., Canton

678-285-3288, MPNCanton.com Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Relevate Church 999 Jep Wheeler Rd., Woodstock 678-238-1488, RelevateChurchInt.org Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Resurrection Anglican Church 231 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-0040, RezWoodstock.org Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Revolution Church 125 Union Hill Trl., Canton 770-345-2737, TheRevolution.tv Sunday Services: 8:15, 9:45 & 11:15 a.m.

Sunnyside Church of God 2510 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-639-1018, SunnysideCOG.org Sunday Services: 10:00 & 11:30 a.m.

Toonigh Church of God 4775 Holly Springs Pkwy., Canton 770-926-3096, ToonighCOG.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Towne Lake Community Church 132 N. Medical Pkwy., Woodstock 678-445-8766, TLCChurch.com Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Unity North Atlanta Church 4255 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta 678-819-9100, UnityNorth.org Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. (Sanctuary) 11:15 a.m. (Español, Peace Chapel)

Watermarke Church Meets at Cherokee Charter Academy (2126 Sixes Rd., Canton)

678-880-9092, WatermarkeChurch.com Sunday Services: 9:00, 11:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Woodstock Christian Church 7700 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238, WoodstockChristian.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8838, WoodstockChurchOfChrist.org Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Rd. Woodstock 770-776-9296, WCNGA.com Sunday Service: 10:45 a.m.

Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8990, WoodstockCommunityChurch.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Momentum Church 110 Londonderry Ct., Ste. 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919, MomentumChurch.tv Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.

Morning Star Church 1006 Owens Store Rd., Canton 678-794-7486, MorningStarCanton.com Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

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Advertiser Index Atlanta Hand Specialist 5 Bark Station 3 Camp Juliette Low 19 Center Cut Catering 40 Cherokee Angel Senior Care 43 Cherokee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 43 Cherokee County Historical Society 19 Cobb EMC 47 Dawn Sams, Realtor 27 Dr. Fixit Ph.D. 56 Eagle Business Credit, LLC 21 Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 32 Falany and Hulse Women’s Center, P.C. 9 Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 21 Goin’ Coastal 18 Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce 51 The Great Frame Up 10 H&H Electric & Security, LLC 13 Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA, LLC 37 Jyl Craven Hair Design 53 Kincaid Orthodontics 27 LaVida Massage 25 Magnolia Hall 37 Mountain Lakes Insurance 16 Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 7 Northside Hospital Cherokee 1 Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 56 Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 33 PhotoJack.net 31 Plastic Surgery Center of the South 52 Pro Roofing and Siding 3 R & D Mechanical Services, Inc. Inside Back Rejoice Maids 11 Revved Up Kids 43 The Shriver Law Firm 37 Skin Cancer Specialists, P.C. Inside Front & Aesthetic Center Summit Financial Solutions Cover, 28-30 Technical Resource Solutions 23 Three Sisters Gifts 40 Towne Lake Primary Care Inside Front WellStar Health System Back Cover Woodstock Physical Therapy 11

Woodstock Family Life | FEBRUARY 2015

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