Contents VOLUME 7 | ISSUE 9
April 2020
[24-25]
20-21 On the Cover
GrassRoots Turf
24-25
The Benefits of Going Vegan
28-29
Brandon Beach for State Senate
[20-21] 04
.......................... Perspective
08
.................... Community Life
14
............................. Quotables
18
................. Woodstock Notes
23
................... Friday Night Live
30
......................... Public Safety
32-33
[28-29] Follow Us >>>
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Family Life Publications
Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
.................. Artist Profile
34
............... Community Partner
37
......................... Book Review
38
.................... Ribbon Cuttings
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Publisher’s Perspective
Recently, a dear friend laid his father to rest, and a few short weeks later, that same friend, Butch Brown, also died. Unfortunately, Butch’s work was not done, as he was working to prepare a home for his 91-year-old grandfather. In the shadow of a pandemic, his friends and others in the Hickory Flat community rallied. This team of volunteers completed weeks of work in a matter of days, in honor of the Browns and the love of a family, to make certain that “Papa” Brown had a safe place to call home. That kind of passion — a dedication to the happiness of our neighbors, the desire to fulfill a wish and make it come true for someone else — is what fills a group of people with love and builds a strong, solid community. Coretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” We saw food drives and deliveries to children who are dependent on the school district for care and nourishment because their only option was to stay home. People donated their own limited supplies to support the elderly and infirmed, so they could stay safe in-house. Teachers opened personal lines of communication to provide parents with resources and help them continue teaching their children at home. Helen Keller, a great student and teacher said, “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” It’s important for us to remember that life is not perfect. It’s OK to shelter or seek solace from what befalls us. It’s significantly more important, when the time is right, to harness whatever it takes to gain a foothold and rise again, to be bolder and brighter than we were before, be a positive influence on others, and enjoy the marvels of being renewed, refreshed, and resilient. Root firmly, find courage, push forward, and grow.
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Cyndi Braun ART Stephanie Bolton Stephanie@FamilyLifePublications.com Tiffany Corn Tiffany@FamilyLifePublications.com Mandy Marger Mandy@FamilyLifePublications.com Candice Williams Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com SALES Janet Ponichtera Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steven Anderson, Stacy Brown, Charlie Dallavalle, Joshua Fuder, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Tim Morris, Savanna Morrison, Jeremy Morton, Vishant Nath, Jessica Oravec, Ellen Samsell Salas, Shannon Wallace, Caroline Wimberly, Katie Wise, Peter Wrobel, Ferdinand Yates
Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114
770-213-7095
FamilyLifePublications.com Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Woodstock Family Life is a monthly community magazine with a total print count of over 30,000, direct mailing over 28,000 copies to Towne Lake, downtown Woodstock up to Hickory Flat and toward the Roswell border. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/ publisher, and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Woodstock Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.
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© 2020 All rights reserved.
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Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.
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I write this, my prayer is that COVID-19 is under control by the time you read these words. The outbreak of the coronavirus stopped each of us in our tracks. It changed everyone’s perspective on what is truly important to us — as individuals, as families, and as members of our community. We survived. This past month, on several occasions, I was reminded of what makes our community my home.
EDITORIAL Julie Senger Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com
M AG A ZI
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PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER Jack Tuszynski Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com
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Grow Together TIME TO
Jack Tuszynski, Publisher
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DNA Testing The Genes Have It? By Ferdinand Yates, Jr., M.D., M.A.
[HealthyLife] Direct-to-consumer genetic testing is popular and can be fun, but there are also potential problems. Individuals who use these services need to know what they are paying for and what happens to the data that is on file. CAVEATS OF GENETIC TESTING These tests scan for DNA variations that are known to correlate with increased risk for certain diseases, but they do not predict the actual chance of contracting the condition, and errors do occur. The analysis does not consider factors such as race, personal habits, or living conditions. Specific genetic counseling is often not available at this level, or it requires an additional fee. Some testing companies sell the information to other entities for research purposes or other reasons such as law enforcement. Other testing companies offer to analyze a child’s genetic information for academic
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or athletic aptitude. This process gives no consideration to a child’s interests, education, or access to resources. Ancestry tests may provide information regarding a child’s genetic makeup, but the precision and accuracy are variable, and inconsistencies occur among the various companies. Genetic test results may influence future insurability. Whereas some companies are prohibited from discrimination based on genetic information, companies that provide life, disability, and long-term care insurance have no such restrictions. Ethicists suggest that in the absence of medical urgency, testing of asymptomatic children should be delayed until the child can participate in the decision process and provide informed consent. In this way, there can be better protection of a minor’s privacy and medical confidentiality. Wrong results may lead to improper medical treatments and needless worry for the child or parent. L Source – American Academy of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Medicine, March 2018
Dr. Yates is a pediatrician at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine, 2000 Professional Way, Woodstock. 770-517-0250. WoodstockPeds.com
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The
Importance of Caring for
[HealthyLife] At the dentist office, many parents say things like, “They are just baby teeth. He’ll lose them anyway; why fix them?” Baby teeth (primary teeth) perform a vital role in children’s oral development, and it’s important to maintain them until they naturally come out or need to be removed for oral health reasons. Besides the fact that primary teeth are needed for chewing, they play a significant role in your child’s overall health and the long-term stability of his/her mouth. Tooth decay can impact a child’s health. Primary teeth are no less prone to tooth decay than adult teeth. In addition, if the decay is severe, it can cause pain until properly treated. Severe neglect of primary teeth can lead to facial infections, abscesses, or even life-threatening infections of the head and neck. Children with tooth decay often complain of pain and have trouble eating a regular diet. Teeth help with speech development, too. You may notice that when children first lose their two front teeth, they may not speak normally. This is natural. Children who lose primary teeth prematurely, however, may develop a lisp and have difficulty overcoming this condition. Combined, 6
Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
these problems may lower a child’s selfesteem during important formative years. These issues can also affect a child’s ability to concentrate and do well in school. Another important role of primary teeth is maintaining critical space and jaw stability required for future adult teeth. When this role is overlooked, severe crowding can occur with adult teeth as well as root damage to forming teeth. This situation can require extensive orthodontic treatment that might have been avoided with proper maintenance. Careful consideration of space closure that may result in the loss of certain primary teeth is needed. Spacesaving appliances are available when primary teeth are lost too early, which allow for proper oral development. Primary molars are critical for maintaining space for adult teeth, which develop beneath the gums and take some time to erupt. The premature loss of the “space saving” tooth above the adult tooth may cause the space to collapse, preventing the adult tooth from erupting. Primary molars also allow the permanent molars to move into the correct positions at about age 6. Incorrect positioning of adult molars may have detrimental consequences.
Baby Teeth
By Steven Anderson, D.M.D.
Primary teeth also are important in normal facial development because they help maintain the supporting facial bone structure. Early loss of primary teeth may alter normal facial development. Expensive orthodontic solutions may be necessary to correct these problems. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew, speak, and develop properly. Practicing excellent oral hygiene and treating dental problems early helps contribute to a happy, healthy child. Talk to your family dentist about any concerns you may have. After all, great dentistry is all about your kids’ teeth, too. L
Dr. Steven Anderson practices cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry at Anderson Dental of Woodstock and East Cobb. 650 Claremore Professional Way, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770-384-8505. DrStevenAnderson.com
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Community CCWSA Student Photography Winners
CCSD Kicks Off Partnership With Mountain Education Charter High School The Cherokee County Board of Education recently unanimously approved contracting with Mountain Education Charter High School to take over the school district's evening high school program, currently known as Polaris Evening Program.
Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority (CCWSA) recently announced the winners of its 2020 student photography contest. Student photographers were challenged to capture interest and beauty in the human water cycle by considering questions like where does the water that we use every day come from? How does it get to our homes, schools, and local businesses? Where is it stored? How does fire protection fit into the cycle? Where does it go after we use it? And what is its connection to food production and energy? The 6th-8th grade category winner was Caleb Miller of Creekland Middle School with his photograph entitled Tower at Sunset. The 9th-12th grade category winner was Leila Raymond-Kaina of Cherokee High School (untitled photo). The winners received a framed copy of their winning photograph and a check for $50. The photographs are now displayed at the CCWSA main office, Rose Creek Water Reclamation Facility (WRF), Fitzgerald Creek WRF, Riverbend WRF, Etowah River Water Treatment Facility, and H.Q. Lathem Reservoir.
Fire Department Requests Public Input on Provided Services Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services is requesting public input in a survey that will be available through April 30. The Community Stakeholder Survey provides an annual baseline of how well the fire department is performing in the eyes of citizens and seeks input on the importance of programs and initiatives currently in place. The survey enables the department to gauge perceptions on levels of services and provides data for the upcoming strategic planning sessions, which are in alignment with the department’s goals of continuous improvement and efforts to become an internationally accredited fire department through the Center of Public Safety Excellence on Fire Accreditation International. The survey is open to anyone who visits, works, or lives in Cherokee County and can be found at SurveyHero.com/c/CherokeeCountyFire. 8
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Beginning in June, Mountain Ed will run the evening school program at the Etowah East building on the Etowah HS campus, and expand services using the same successful model already in place in counties across north Georgia. Just as with Polaris, there will be no charge to students to enroll in evening classes with Mountain Ed. Classes are open to students ages 15-21 and to age 22 for special education students. “Mountain Ed will offer our high school students the continued opportunity to earn their high school diploma in the evenings and will provide them with new services including a mentor to coach them on to graduation,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower said, noting that an evening high school has been a valuable academic choice in Cherokee County School District (CCSD) for many years. “We’re excited about this partnership and the benefits it will provide to our students.” Like CCSD, Mountain Ed is accredited by AdvancEd, and students earn credits toward the same high school diploma as they would at any other Georgia public high school. Mountain Ed is also accredited by the NCAA. Students will complete self-paced course work online, using computers at the school, with one-on-one support from teachers; classes have a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. Students will meet weekly with their mentors for coaching and support. For more information about Mountain Ed, visit MyMEC.org.
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History in the Making The Cherokee County Historical Society (CCHS) recently launched a multi-million dollar “History in the Making” capital campaign for its new headquarters located in the former Canton Police Department building in downtown Canton. The exhibit space for the new History Center will expand from its current 675 square feet to at least 5,000 square feet. Each gallery and exhibit space will include naming rights opportunities to recognize families and local organizations that have made significant investments in the new facility.
Funds raised through the capital campaign will be used to renovate the facility, providing space for engaging museum exhibits, enhanced collection storage, and a comprehensive program of cultural events. According to campaign leadership, $1.8 million has already been raised, which is 64% of the $2.8 million funding goal. The new multifunctional facility will serve as a dynamic education resource that collaborates with educational institutions at all levels, instilling a deeper appreciation of Cherokee County’s unique and compelling history.
The launch event marked the beginning of the public phase of the campaign, which is being managed by Atlanta-based POWER 10 and a Campaign Leadership Council of volunteers affiliated with the Cherokee County Historical Society. For more information about the project, please contact Kevin Donovan at 404-667-7768 or KDonovan@gopower10.com.
Clark Creek ES STEM Academy Teacher Receives Multiple Honors
"Excellence in science education is more important than ever for our students preparing for the STEM careers of today and tomorrow.” -Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower
Karen Garland, Clark Creek’s Teacher of the Year and a CCSD 2020 Teacher of the Year finalist, has received multiple honors. The Georgia Youth Science and Technology Centers recognized her as a 2020 Georgia STEM Scholar Award, and the Governor’s School Leadership Academy selected her as a member of the inaugural cohort of its Teacher Leader Support Program. The Georgia STEM Scholar Awards recognize outstanding efforts to engage and improve student learning in STEM
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disciplines. Award recipients receive a $500 grant to purchase STEM education materials for their classroom and free admission to the Center’s Summer STEM Institute professional development conference. The Georgia Teacher Leader Support Program provides the opportunity for select educators to further develop their teacher-leader skills through professional development and on-site coaching with individualized support and feedback. In addition to these honors, Garland was named the Georgia Science Teachers Association 2020 Teacher of the Year for Elementary Schools and the Council of Outdoor Learning Chair for the Environmental Education Alliance of Georgia.
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Community Poster Child Becomes Adult Ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis During Momentous Year Woodstock resident Jess Streib has fond memories of being a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) poster child, from dressing up for fancy charitable banquets to passing out gold medals at sporting events. But little did she expect to be chosen as the CF Ambassador for Cars & ‘Q for the Cause at 43 years old. Cars & ‘Q for the Cause is an esteemed car show and party, which has raised $1.7 million to benefit CFF. Cystic fibrosis is a rare, progressive disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits breathing function. Streib was diagnosed at birth when the survival rate was just 13 years. Thanks to CFF-funded drug trials, tremendous medical breakthroughs have all but cured CF. Trikafta, Streib’s most recent therapy, is the single greatest therapeutic advancement in the history of the disease, offering treatment for its underlying cause, which could eventually benefit more than 90% of people with CF. Meet Ambassador Jess Streib at this year’s Cars and ‘Q for the Cause on Saturday, April 18, from 4:00-7:00pm at 8200 Roberts Drive, Atlanta. Hosted by Choate Construction, the fundraiser will feature more than 120 cars, barbecue and brews, and a silent auction. Due to COVID-19 event cancellations, visit CarsNQ.com to confirm event details before attending.
Elm Street Gala Nearly 400 guests recently filled the banquet hall of His Hands Church in Woodstock for a fundraiser gala to raise money to convert the Reeves house into an arts center. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village hosted the event. Mayor Donnie Henriques opened by addressing the construction timeline of the Reeves House, touching on the legal issues arising from the former builder, which delayed the project after the initial groundbreaking. Guest of honor Atlanta developer John Wieland announced that his company, the JW Collection, would build the Reeves house pro bono to serve as Elm Street's
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new Visual Arts Center. The structure will serve as a community centerpiece in the heart of downtown Woodstock and will contain a gallery, art classroom, artist studios, as well as the Juanita Hughes History Room. The program concluded with two short talks by Board President Ann Litrel and Executive Director Christopher Brazelton, who spoke on the transformative power of the arts in people’s lives and in the community. “The response was very encouraging,” said Brazelton. “Guests are still responding with their pledges, so we don’t have a final fundraising total. We hope to announce something soon, and of course, we are busy thanking those who generously gave that night.”
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CHOOSING THE
Best Paint Contractor FOR YOUR PROJECT By Charlie Dallavalle [HomeLife] Certain home improvement projects require a professional. Not many homeowners can build their own house or install an HVAC system. But other projects, like painting, seem easy enough for the do-it-yourself enthusiast to accomplish. However, painting is more difficult than it looks. There is a lot to know about paint such as the different types (latex, oil, hybrid, epoxy, etc.), finishes (matte, gloss/ semigloss, eggshell), interior versus exterior paint, as well as which products can be applied over existing wall coverings. We’ve all seen paint that’s peeling off the walls because, for example, a painter applied latex paint over an original oil-based paint. In this case, there is specific prep work that should have been done, which is why it’s important to hire a professional paint contractor. When hiring a paint contractor: • Don’t just look at online reviews because they can be fake or misleading. It’s best if the contractor uses a third-party review company to analyze jobs independently. • Google reviews are great, but homeowners should always look at how the company’s owner responds to unfavorable assessments because it can tell them a lot about that contractor. • Homeowners should also investigate how long the company has been in business by visiting the secretary of state’s website (Georgia.gov/agencies/georgiasecretary-state). • Make sure the contractor has a county license and insurance, both workman’s compensation and liability, and request to see a copy of the policy.
Charlie Dallavalle is the owner of Painting Plus. 127 Powers Ferry Road, SE, Marietta. 770-971-1577. PaintingPlus.com. SidingPlus.com. GuttersPlus.com
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Having a Thankful Heart
By Pastor Jeremy Morton
[InGoodFaith] When you read the New Testament, have you ever noticed how often Paul speaks of his gratitude to God? He begins every letter he writes with a word of thanksgiving to the lord. He mentions people and supporters by name who have helped his ministry, and he thanks them. Having a happy, thankful heart seemed to be a key priority in Paul’s life. But even more inspiring is this: When you realize the frequent pain and personal crisis in Paul’s life, the fact that he would still choose to rejoice and show gratitude to God is motivating. For example, Paul was often imprisoned. He was shipwrecked, beaten, and robbed. His life was not an easy one, yet he still remained grateful. What a lesson for each of us. Why did Paul seem to always speak of his personal thanksgiving to God? A clue can be found in 1 Corinthians 1:4-9: “I always thank my God for you because of the grace of God given to you in Christ Jesus, that you were enriched in him in every way, in all speech and all knowledge. In this way, the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you, so that you do not lack
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any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you will be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; you were called by him into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” What Paul is saying is that whatever God calls us to do, he will equip us to do. Is there some obstacle in your future? Are you worried about something? Relax and be encouraged. God has put everything in your life that you need to fulfill his will. Even when we mess up and fail, he remains faithful. Life is not meant to be carried on our own shoulders, but on God’s. He will strengthen you to finish this race. What a reason to be grateful! L
Jeremy Morton is the lead pastor of First Baptist Church Woodstock. 770-926-4428. FBCW.org
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Quotables “A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.” -Mahatma Gandhi “If you put your cameras down, you might be able to live in the moment. You have a memory there of something you’ve never lived.” -Jan Brown “If you suffered in life and want other people to suffer as you did because ‘you turned out fine,’ you did not in fact turn out fine.” -Unknown “When the debate is lost, slander becomes the tool of the loser.” -Socrates
“Sometimes, the hardest person to walk away from is the person you’ve always assumed you were.” -J.M. Storm “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” -James Clear
Passover “affirms the great truth that liberty is the inalienable right of every human being. -Morris Joseph
”
“People who lean on logic and philosophy and rational exposition end by starving the best part of the mind.” -William Butler Yeats
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RAISING FUNDS AND Celebrating Hometown Greats By Lisa-Marie Haygood [AcademicLife] Last month’s Celebration of Education Gala benefiting the Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) was a black-tie event filled with more than 400 guests. Overall, $120,000 was raised to benefit the Cherokee County School District (CCSD). CCEF also recognized two outstanding CCSD alumni for their contributions to our community: Rebecca Johnston, a 1970 graduate of Cherokee High School, who was formerly managing editor for the Cherokee Tribune, manager of a local cable television station, and manager of WCHK AM radio, was honored. Johnston is the author of Images of America - Canton; Cherokee County, Georgia - A History; and Hometown Holidays - Memories Throughout the Year. She is a long-standing member of the Cherokee County Historical Society and works tirelessly to build a museum of our county’s history while continuing her many years of volunteering with the Service League and Canton Rotary. Johnston also serves on the CCEF board.
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Steve Stancil, another 1970 graduate of Cherokee High School, was also honored. He began his career in the U.S. Air Force and served as coowner of Max Stancil Realty Company. He was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1988 and became the Republican leader in 1992. Stancil was the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor in 2002 and a dedicated public servant for 28 years. He was appointed by Governors Sonny Perdue and Nathan Deal to serve as the executive director of the Georgia Building Authority and State Properties Commission, and the director of the Georgia Financing and Investment Commission, construction division. Stancil oversaw $4 billion in projects funded through bonds and realized close to $100 million in state revenue from surplus property sales. He has also served as the head of the Georgia Regional Transportation Lisa-Marie Haygood is the executive Authority and director for the Cherokee County Educational Foundation. 770-704-4213. the Allatoona CherokeeCountyEducationalFoundation.org Preservation Authority.
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Woodstock Notes
THE IMPORTANCE OF
PARTICIPATING IN THE By Stacy Brown
2020 CENSUS
T
he results of the 2020 Census will help determine congressional representation and the amount of federal funding that flows into our community every year for the next decade. Census results also influence highway planning and construction. In our local schools, census results help determine how money is allocated for the Head Start Program, school lunches, and grants that support teachers and special education. Census data helps our community respond to natural disasters and secure funding for hospitals and fire departments. Results affect planning and funding for health care, including programs such as Medicaid, Medicare Part B, state children’s health insurance, and the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.
Households will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census from either a postal worker or a census worker. Every household will have the option of responding online, by mail, or by phone. Most households (95%) will receive their census invitation in the mail. Some households (5%) will receive their census invitation from a census taker because they use a P.O. Box rather than a mailbox at their home’s physical address. The U.S. Census Bureau has special procedures to count people who don’t live in households such as students living in university housing or people experiencing homelessness. Between March 12–20, you should have received an invitation to respond online to the 2020 Census. The U.S. Postal Service
staggered the delivery of invitations over several days in an effort to spread out the number of users responding online and allow Census Bureau employees to better serve respondents who needed help over the phone. During follow-up efforts, reminder letters and postcards were sent to households who had not yet responded in March. From April 8-16, a letter and paper questionnaire will be sent to those who still have not replied. A final reminder postcard will be sent April 20–27 before a census taker follows up in person. If someone visits your home in April to collect information for the 2020 Census, check to make sure he/she has a valid photo I.D. badge with a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark and an expiration date. A census taker will never ask you for your Social Security number, money or donations, anything on behalf of a political party, or your bank or credit card information. Please take the time to respond. The data you provide greatly impacts our community. Learn more at 2020Census.gov. SOURCE – 2020Census.gov
Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the City of Woodstock. 770-592-6056. WoodstockGa.gov
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SILVER Roamers By Tim Morris
[Lifestyle] Cherokee County Senior Services recently took over the active adult programs in Cherokee County from the parks and recreation department. This decision was made to make it easier for the community to access information about the programs we offer. It simply made more sense that if the program was for adults 55 and older, details could be obtained by calling Senior Services. Silver Roamers is one of the programs Senior Services is now responsible for. I met with this group a few months ago, and they are an inquisitive bunch with lots of wonderful energy. One individual asked if the Canton Senior Center was a day care. The Canton center is for seniors who need a little more help. For instance, about 70% of the people who visit the facility couldn’t get there without CATS, which is our transportation provider. A few of the visitors also use walkers, and staff members must occasionally remind some guests of things. For these reasons, the Silver Roamers Program is especially important at the Canton center. Many of us take for granted our freedom to come and go as we please, but most of these seniors no longer have that luxury. Overall, the Silver Roamers are an active, independent group that now has the opportunity to make the program into something even more special. Hopefully, the Roamers, along with the Body Recall active adults and Senior Olympics, will one day have their own facility to host programs. The active adult programs already have their own staff person, Ree Simpson, who has many great ideas about providing more programs and trips as well as expanding the Silver Roamers membership. If you would like more information about any of our active adult groups, please contact Senior Services or email Ree Simpson at RMSimpson@cherokeega.com. L
Tim Morris is the director of Cherokee County Senior Services. 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-479-7438. CherokeeGa.com/Senior-Services
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Simply “The Best Service Company Ever!” Putting Customers and Employees First Josh Wise, founder and owner of GrassRoots Turf, says, “It’s easy to live up to our company’s motto, ‘The Best Service Company Ever!’ The key is to care — care about your customers and care about your employees. We consistently receive five-star ratings from our customers because our relationship with them is all about giving the best service.” When homeowners choose GrassRoots, they are receiving a full-service turf management program that is all inclusive. “Our customers are spared the pain and frustration of unexpected extra costs,” Wise assures.
Pat Cuellar
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A family owned and operated business, GrassRoots includes Wise’s mother, father, brother, and cousin. GrassRoots employees are highly valued, and they are trusted to value customers in the same manner. In an industry known for seasonal layoffs, GrassRoots keeps technicians year-round and provides them with a two-week paid leave at Christmas. Each employee also receives his/her birthday off. Technicians service the same lawns, get to know their customers, and are always on the lookout for ways to make their client’s day better, whether it be assisting with unloading groceries or bringing up the trash cans. “We’re more than just a lawn care company; our sole focus is the happiness of our customers as well as our employees,” Wise says. “We don’t work Saturdays. Our customers want to enjoy their yards on the weekend, and our employees want to spend their weekends with their families.” Growing, but Keeping Service the No. 1 Priority The GrassRoots commitment to top-notch service was cultivated from Wise’s extensive experience in the industry. Launching
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COVER STORY By Ellen Samsell Salas his own lawn care business at 14, he taught himself the business — from the “roots” up. In 2002, Wise opened GrassRoots. Prompted by the company’s growth, GrassRoots began offering franchise opportunities in 2019. GrassRoots currently has five locations in the works, including one in Charlotte, North Carolina. While the company’s territory expands, delivering the best service remains top priority. To guarantee consistency, Wise assists in the hiring and training of all franchise technicians. “We will be hands-on with our franchises,” says Wise, “You must have the right people to ensure that customer service stays top notch.” Leading the Way in Lawn Service Always aware of industry trends, Wise performs in-depth research before making any operational changes. New this year, the company is leading the industry offering state-of-theart service by outfitting all GrassRoots technicians with body cameras to record each application. “I’m a firm believer in staying ahead of industry trends,” Wise insists. Having a video record of how applications were performed will ensure that all areas of each yard are covered. “We want our customers to have peace of mind that our technicians have done a thorough job,” Wise says.
Giving Back to the Community While Wise is a member of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, GrassRoots also gives back to the community by donating to 48 schools in Cherokee, Cobb, and Paulding Counties. Working with PTAs, the company donates 5% of all revenue earned from clients who say they learned of GrassRoots through the publicity campaign at their child’s school. “It’s really simple,” Wise assures. “Before we make any changes or decisions, we ask ‘What will benefit our customer, and what will benefit our employees?’ We want only a win-win situation. We aim for mutually beneficial policies.”
100 Holt Drive, Acworth
833-66-GRASS (833-664-7277)
GrassRootsTurf.com Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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COPPER FIELDS Get Your Red Locks Ready for Spring By Savanna Morrison [Lifestyle] Now that spring is here, the Georgia air is finally getting warmer. Blossoming flowers and rays of sunshine are here to brighten our day. Along with the new season, your copper locks might also be ready for a change. With different shades of this naturally gorgeous hair color, there are many options for freshening up your look: STYLE CHOICE 1 — Balayage As a DIY project, lightening naturally copper or red hair can be a little tricky, so see a color specialist to ensure that technique, the integrity of your hair, and the final product will be to your liking. Balayage is a highlighting method in which the color specialist paints lightener onto the hair, leaving room at the root for a more natural grow out. This technique tends to be lower maintenance than highlights, allowing you to enjoy the spring and summer without the need for frequent color touch ups.
Spicing up your fiery locks is a great way to welcome the warmer temps. Whether you decide to lighten or deepen your color, finding a great look is easy. Consult your hairdresser about color options – together, you’ll be able to create a perfect look for you and your lifestyle this spring. L
STYLE CHOICE 2 — Ombre Ombre is similar to a color melt in that the hair transitions in a gradient manner from one color to another. With your copper hair, an ombre can be applied in a number of ways. If lightening your hair isn’t a high priority, then try starting at your root with a deeper red. This approach will add a fiery expression to your look. If you desire a more lightened effect, bleaching your ends to a warm blonde will add a bit of flare, and upkeep will be minimal because you won’t need to touch up your roots. STYLE CHOICE 3 — Global Color Global color applications can shift the entire look of your hair. A global application simply means that a color is applied in all your hair (from roots to ends). For redheads, this can be done with many colors. From a warm auburn to apricot to deep chocolate brown, redheads are allowed the luxury of choosing from most any warm hue on the spectrum. Keeping within warm tones will enhance the natural warmth of your color.
PRO TIPS • Shampoo and condition with color-safe products. • Use a moisturizing masque for lightened hair to help maintain its integrity. • Apply an at-home pigment-depositing treatment to enhance the natural reds or coppers in your color. • Look for products with a UV protectant to prevent sun damage. • Apply a heat protectant before blow drying or using heat tools, especially with lightened hair.
Savanna Morrison is an experience coordinator at Jyl Craven Hair Design of Canton. 770-345-9411. JylCraven.com
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Friday Night Live
FIDO FEST Photos courtesy of Cassandra Bickel
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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By Caroline Wimberly
A
2015 peer-reviewed study by Canadian academics comparing bias against target groups found that vegans and vegetarians were viewed more negatively than any other group except drug addicts.1 It’s fair to say that people adhering to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle (often written jointly as “veg*n”) can easily feel estranged or ridiculed during social settings, holiday gatherings, or business meals. While there is much information about whether following a vegan (plantbased) diet can solve climate change (and to what degree), reverse cancer, or destroy an otherwise perfect dinner party, here is some information about the benefits of vegan diets.
Health Almost all foods with near universal nutritional supremacy are plant-based: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Humans can easily thrive on plants alone with a proper balance of diverse ingredients. Any necessary nutrients can be found in plants, with rare exceptions (like Vitamin B12), which can easily be found in fortified products or approved multivitamins. In fact, places around the world where people naturally live the longest – dubbed “Blue Zones” – are also the areas where people consume very little, if any, animal products.2 Though dairy products are marketed as bone strengtheners due to their high calcium content, the World Health 24
Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
Organization and other health researchers have pointed out the “calcium paradox” in which countries with higher calcium intake, especially from animal protein, also have higher rates of hip fractures. It’s possible that animal proteins in dairy products have adverse effects on calcium intake that outweigh the high calcium concentration in those foods.3
aren’t new, they will probably become more frequent and intense with more unpredictable weather patterns and global population growth.6 Adjusting to food production that requires less land, water, and other inputs will be increasingly important. Growing plants for direct human consumption is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to do this.
While difficult to recommend any singular diet to broad swaths of people, it’s increasingly conceded by health and nutrition professionals that vegan or vegetarian diets can be healthy and appropriate for all stages of life.4
Forests play an essential role in regulating our climate as well as holding a huge amount of biodiversity. Also, many indigenous groups rely on these ecosystems for their continued survival, which they’ve maintained for much longer than the industrial age.
Environmental/Humanitarian While repetitive, catastrophic news headlines can sometimes numb the general public instead of set off alarm bells, there’s scientific consensus that our planet is in trouble.5 Several scientific reports, such as the EAT-Lancet Commission to the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report on Climate Change and Land, detail the importance of reducing our reliance on animal products for public and planetary health. Although it can be difficult to see on a local or even national level due to perceived abundance, the world has limited resources. Agriculture in general, but mostly animal agriculture, requires a huge amount of fresh water. While conflicts and migration over water access
Yet, an area of forest the size of the United Kingdom is lost each year, mostly due to demand for agricultural commodities like beef and soybeans (the top two sources of agricultural deforestation).7 About 75% of soybeans are turned into animal feed to supply intensively raised cattle, pigs, chickens, and fish (only around 6% are turned into products like tofu for human consumption).8 These land disruptions result in human rights crises, as local communities are displaced, and they are a leading cause of species extinction. Food choice and diet are commonly viewed as personal decisions. While this is true, there are far-reaching implications for the foods we choose to produce and consume, most of which aren’t spelled out More through the door!
on any product label. The inequities in our food system are enabled by a veil of lengthy supply chains and willful ignorance. Investigating where food comes from and how it was produced, whether plant- or animalbased in origin, is a step towards reducing these inequities. As the old adage says, knowledge is power.
Sample Grocery List Any vegan grocery list is probably going to weigh heavy on produce. While intimidating at first, produce-heavy diets are easy to adapt to in food preparation, and they are certainly tastier and more colorful. And for nights when time is limited, frozen and canned products are great to have on hand. Here’s a sample grocery list: It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the idea of going vegan, but don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Find a community, in person or online, to ask questions, look for inspiration, or simply feel a part of something. The most important thing is to find a path and lifestyle, including diet, that works for you.
Sources 1. MacInnis, Cara C., and Hodson, Gordon. “It Ain’t Easy Eating Greens: Evidence of Bias toward Vegetarians and Vegans from both Source and Target.” Group Processes & Intergroup Relations, Vol. 20(6), 721-744. 2017. DOI. org/10.1177/1368430215618253 2. Buettner, Dan, and Skemp, Sam. “Blue Zones: Lessons From the World’s Longest Lived.” American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, Vol. 10(5), 318-321. July 2016. DOI. org/10.1177/1559827616637066 3. World Health Organization. Recommendations for preventing osteoporosis. WHO.int/nutrition/topics/5_ population_nutrient/en/index25.html 4. Craig, W.J., Mangels, A.R., and American Dietetic Association. “Position of the American Dietetic Association: Vegetarian Diets.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association, Vol. 109(7), 1266-82. July 2009. DOI.org/10.1016/j.jada.2009.05.027 5. Ripple, William J., et. al. “World Scientists’ Warning of a Climate Emergency.” BioScience, biz088. November 2019. DOI.org/10.1093/biosci/biz088 6. Fergusson, James. “The World Will Soon Be at War Over Water.” Newsweek, April 24, 2015. Newsweek. com/2015/05/01/world-will-soon-be-war-overwater-324328.html 7. New York Declaration on Forests Assessment Partners. “Protecting and Restoring Forests: A Story of Large Commitments yet Limited Progress.” Climate Focus, 2019. ForestDeclaration.org 8. Brack, D., Glover, A., and Wellesley, L. “Agricultural Commodity Supply Chains: Trade, Consumption and Deforestation.” Chatham House, 2016. ChathamHouse.org/publication/agriculturalcommodity-supply-chains-trade-consumption-anddeforestation
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Teaching Teens To Be
Smart With Money Part 1 of a Three-Part Series
[StrategicLife] In school, children learn
By Katie Wise
about many things, but how to be smart with money is not a subject that is usually taught in the classroom. Most of us learned the hard way. We found out about the dangers of credit cards after we ran up a huge amount of debt. We didn’t know how to budget, and we didn’t start saving early enough.
There is no better time to learn how to create and stick to a budget. Budgeting teaches teens not only how to spend, but also how to save. Help your kids set up a document that tracks all the money coming in and going out, including a column of money set aside in a savings account.
As parents, we can help our children get off to a better financial start in life. In this three-part series, the goal is to share important lessons (and how to implement them) that you can teach your child.
If you feel comfortable, it’s also helpful to let your kids see your own budget. If not, set up a fictitious similar budget that shows everything from mortgage payments to spending allowances.
To begin with, teens need to learn how to make money. They’re going to have to work to support themselves – why not get started now? Help them find paying work, whether it’s a part-time job or mowing the neighbor’s lawn. You can even inspire them by sharing articles or videos of young entrepreneurs who’ve earned a fortune at an early age. Earning their own money will teach them about its value and its limitations.
If your teen doesn’t have a good companion checking and savings account, now is the time to help them open one. They’ll certainly need a checking account before they go off to college, and it’s a good idea to get them used to owning both. This way, they’ll learn better how to set aside money in
Once teens start earning income, it’s time for them to spend only their own money — or at the very least, have them cover certain parts of their lifestyle with their earnings. Being limited by their income, they will learn how to prioritize purchases and stay within a budget. And speaking of budgets…
savings and use their checking account only for money that is identified for spending. If you choose a high interest savings account, you also could begin teaching them about the importance of compounded interest (part two of this series will cover this topic). Some credit unions offer as much as a 5% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings, so your kids can watch their money grow. You and your teens can compare checking and savings accounts together. Have them pay attention to things like interest rates and fees, then choose an account that charges the least and pays the most. If you start teaching your kids good financial lessons now, it will benefit them their whole lives. Watch for parts two and three of this series, which will cover important topics like credit cards, student loans, and the real cost of life. L
Katie Wise is the Woodstock Financial Center manager at LGE Community Credit Union. 12186 Highway 92, Suite 111B, Woodstock. 770-4240060. KathrynW@LGECCU.org, LGECCU.org
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
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Story by Ellen Samsell Salas
(CID), he has been instrumental in bringing millions of dollars in infrastructure to the area. Championing District 21 Needs Since being elected in 2013, Beach has proven he is not a senator in name only. A solution-driven public servant, he has earned the reputation for making a direct, positive impact on the quality of life in District 21 — from his support of public education, to building better roads, keeping taxes low, and enacting business friendly policies. Believing that “our job in government is to be customer-centric and make life better for all our citizens,” he works for his constituents including the unborn, the student and teacher, the entrepreneur, the commuter, law enforcement officers, and those needing medical care. “If we have an educated workforce, lower taxes, less regulations, and invest in our infrastructure — if we do those basics and just get out of the way — the private sector will create jobs, and we will remain the No. 1 state to do business, and our area and its residents will thrive,” Beach says.
A Conservative Champion for District 21
W
hen State Senator Brandon Beach and his wife Shuntel put down roots in Alpharetta 26 years ago, they set out to do whatever they could to make their new community a place their children wouldn’t want to leave. That meant getting involved and helping the area thrive. “I knew that if our kids, Courtney and Hunter, grew up and there were no opportunities here, then shame on me,” Beach says. Making a Difference In those 26 years, Beach has championed the interests of the community. While serving four years on the Alpharetta City Council and 15 years as president and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, he has also been a member of numerous other community boards. And, as executive director and co-founder of the North Fulton Community Improvement District
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
Advocating for Children and Education A conservative Republican, Beach is staunchly pro-life and voted for the heartbeat bill. He is also passionate about maintaining the area’s excellent public schools and technical colleges and ensuring that they have the staff and facilities needed to offer 21st century skills and knowledge. This legislative session, determined that “Georgia’s best and brightest stay here, work here, and raise their families here,” Beach is sponsoring Senate Bill 282, which he has dubbed the “Keep Georgia Kids First Act.” This bill mandates that 90% of early action admissions at Georgia’s state colleges and universities are Georgia residents. Fixing Infrastructure First elected to the Georgia Board of Transportation in 2008 by state legislators and now as chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, Beach is intent on solving the area’s traffic woes.
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“Transportation is my passion. We can fix it. It will take a combination of teamwork, technology, quick and efficient attention to our roads and bridges, but we can do it. We are going to catch up. When I first became involved, agencies didn’t talk to each other and were often undermining each other’s efforts. Now, we have lunch once a month, so that we can work for our citizens,” says Beach. With the governor and the transportation commissioner, Beach helped facilitate the communication and cooperation that were vital to the speedy repair of the I-85 bridge in 2017 and to the completion of multiple other projects. Anyone who travels Georgia’s highways has benefited from Beach’s determination to ensure infrastructure upgrades become realities. So that funding is available, he supported House Bill 170, adding over $1 billion annually in revenue for projects. When he saw that using federal dollars meant jumping through time-consuming hoops, he found a faster route to a solution. “As chair, I proposed to the governor that we allocate state revenue and speed up our progress,” he recalls. “For the widening of State Route 20, we were able to allocate $250 million of state revenue — and we began putting shovels in the dirt in March — not seven years from March. We still use our federal dollars, but on smaller, less crucial projects.” Brandon was also a vital force in the completion of the Northwest Corridor Express Lanes and the connection of State Route 20 and State Route 140 via Northside Cherokee Boulevard, allowing quick hospital access. “The new beautiful Northside Hospital (Cherokee) is not only an economic engine for the area,” he says, “it brings first class health care to our citizens.” Now, Beach is actively working to implement upgrades to State Route 140. Likewise, Cherokee County Airport, which is projected to bring $1 billion in tax revenue to the county when it is upgraded, has benefited from Beach’s efforts. Chair of the Airport Authority, Don Stephens, credits him with helping to secure the funding for the upgrades.
Twenty-six years ago, Brandon Beach set out on a mission to make our community thrive. Today, he remains dedicated to that mission. “I got involved because I wanted my kids and grandkids to be here, to call this home, and I’m so happy that they do. I want everyone to have the same opportunity to come back here, have a job, and call our community home.” To learn more about Senator Beach’s efforts for District 21, please visit his website.
303-B Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334
678-640-1811 BeachForSenate.com
Paid for by Brandon Beach for State Senate
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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Public Safety
By District Attorney Shannon Wallace
M
ost people are aware that criminals are afforded many rights protected by law, starting with the right to remain silent. However, few people are aware that victims are also protected by laws that give them the right to be heard. Starting back in the 1980s, federal and state laws began to address the rights of crime victims. In 1982, the U.S. Congress passed a law to provide protection and assistance to victims in federal cases. Two years later, Congress passed a law giving crime victims the right to restitution, notification of court proceedings, and information about the conviction of offenders. Georgia has also enacted similar laws, including a 1988 constitutional amendment that authorized payment for services to people harmed by violent crime. Then, in 1995, the Georgia legislature passed the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, providing the right for citizens to be informed, present, and heard concerning the criminal case in which they were affected. In 2018, Georgia voters passed Marsy’s Law, which added other victim rights to our state constitution.
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
Georgia Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights
The services these advocates provide uphold the Georgia Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, including notification of case status, education about the criminal justice system, accompaniment and support during criminal proceedings, referrals to resources, and assistance in filing for victim related compensation.
While a complete listing can be found in § O.C.G.A. 17-17-1, as a victim of crime in Georgia, you have the right to: Reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of any scheduled court proceedings Reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of the arrest, release, or escape of the accused Not be excluded from any scheduled court National Crime Victims’ proceedings involving the accused, except as Rights Week (April 19-25) provided by law Victims and their rights are Be heard at any scheduled court proceedings honored each year through involving the release, plea, or sentencing of the rallies, vigils, forums, and other accused awareness activities throughout File a written objection in any parole proceedings National Crime Victims’ Rights involving the accused Week. This year’s theme is “Seek Confer with the prosecutor in any criminal Justice, Ensure Victims’ Rights, prosecution related to the victim Inspire Hope.” Restitution as provided by law Be treated fairly and with During the week, our office will distribute dignity by all criminal awareness information on what to do if justice agencies you become a victim of crime and what your statutory rights are. We hope you never find yourself in need of crime victim services. But if you do, we will be here to help guide and protect you.
Victim Witness Assistance Program In 1993, the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office established the Victim Witness Assistance Program to aid people affected by crime. Today, we have nine advocates on our staff who offer support and guidance to crime victims – 2,698 people in 2019 alone.
For more information, contact the Victim Witness Assistance Program at 770-479-1488.
Shannon Wallace is the District Attorney of Cherokee County. 770-479-1488. CherokeeGa.com/ District-Attorneys-Office
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[HealthyLife] Though more common in adults, gum disease can occur in children in the form of gingivitis. It is important to begin gum disease prevention early, so children maintain good oral hygiene habits for life.
The Truth About
Gum Disease By Vishant Nath, D.M.D. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the swelling of the gum tissue. It is caused by bacteria build up and food particles on teeth, which leads to the development of plaque. If not removed, plaque hardens to form tartar. This causes the redness and swelling of the gums, which can bleed easily during brushing and flossing. If not treated, gingivitis can lead to chronic bad breath or the loosening of teeth. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, see a pediatric dentist for treatment. Depending on the severity of the case, treatment can vary from a professional dental cleaning to a deep oral cleaning and antibiotics. Gingivitis can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits, along with twice yearly dental cleanings.
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
When your child becomes a teenager, monitoring for good daily oral hygiene habits is even more important. Teenagers are more susceptible to the development of gum disease because the gums become more sensitive with the hormonal changes of adolescence, so they may be less likely to want to brush and floss daily. Adult gum disease treatments and prevention are different from what is done for children. For adult teeth, the treatment can include scaling and root planning. These terms describe a deep dental cleaning, which is done to remove plaque from below the gum line. Normal brushing will not remove plaque that gets trapped below the gum line.
Healthy gum
According to the American Dental Association, approximately 40% of adults over the age of 30 have experienced gum disease. Keep your family members’ teeth healthy with disciplined daily hygiene as well as twice yearly visits to the dentist. These are the best tools for preventing gum disease. L
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Canton/Alpharetta/Roswell Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. 678-352-1090. KidsHappyTeeth.com
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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ArtistProfile BY ELLEN SAMSELL SALAS
DIANA
Transparent, Ethereal, D
iana Toma works quickly, sometimes completing a painting in 40 minutes and only returning later to tweak her canvas. “It’s a creative unleashing,” she said, “a way of being when you’re not caught up in anything else. It’s delightful.” Diana says her natural inclination for painting is complemented by her willingness to push through fear and embrace the unfamiliar. Leaving her native Romania, where she earned a master’s degree in fine arts at the Romanian University of Art and Design, she moved to New York and later to Atlanta. “I don’t get stopped by my fear. If there is a glimmer of hope, I move forward,” said Toma. So, as a single mother of two daughters, she carved out a life as a full-time artist. “The myth of the starving artist is alive,” she said, “but I discovered there are many ways to make a living in art if you are open and say ‘yes’ to new possibilities.” Saying “yes” has led Toma to showing her work in more than 100 international exhibits (including many solo exhibits), to designing graphics for corporations, and to teaching art classes. She also juries for exhibits and serves as the U.S. representative to the International Watercolor Society (IWS) and as the demonstration chair for the Georgia Watercolor Society (GWS). Her most recent exhibits include IWS competitions in Pakistan and Turkey. Her passion for discovery means that she finds inspiration in many places — almost all of them involving interaction and conversation with other people — from her students to accomplished artists. While she initially resisted teaching, she now welcomes opportunities to help students become self-expressive.
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
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TOMA Delicate Painting “I become a better artist when teaching. We learn together,” she said. Similarly, when Toma does demonstrations, she welcomes observers’ questions and comments. In January, she hosted a delegation of IWS artists and reveled in exchanging ideas about art. “Inspiration finds you when you’re at work. You can’t sit and wait for it,” said Toma. Trained in oils and acrylics, she ventures into other mediums, too. Seven years ago, she happened upon the work of an online watercolorist and asked herself, “How could I achieve something like that?” Now, Toma thrives on working in watercolor, creating her large, richly hued portraits as well as smaller landscapes and cityscapes, which cover the walls of her home studio. In deft strokes, she creates a vibrant, beautifully layered translucence of colors that conveys the essences of people and a sense of place. “It’s all about transparency, letting translucence shine through. It’s ethereal, gentle, delicate, as if a delicate part of your soul awakens,” she explained. Toma is now exploring pastels and hopes to offer a workshop as a way to further her own understanding of them. No matter which medium she uses, her paintings, like stained glass, explode with an energetic play of color and light. While she accepts commissioned projects and teaches workshops, Toma’s love of painting is what fuels her. “I paint because I truly enjoy painting — not painting what I think others would like because then it loses its charm and zest — but painting from an authentic place to preserve the integrity of the art,” she said.
To view Toma’s work, visit ArtByDianaToma.com or look for her on Facebook (Diana Toma Artist).
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
WWW. FAMILYLIFE PUBLICATIONS.COM
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Community Partner
Family changes everything.
B
ethany Christian Services believes every child deserves to be loved, connected, and safe. For more than 75 years, faith has inspired this organization to stand for children in Georgia and around the world. Staff members have a special place in their hearts for teens like Damon, who need what only a family can provide. A young man with special needs, Damon was often picked on and bullied at school. One day, when an altercation escalated, he became aggressive. Officers were called, and Damon found himself in juvenile detention. His home life was chaotic with many siblings, and his parents were mostly absent. When Damon was released from detention, the court was unable to locate his family, and he had no idea where they’d gone. Because he was a minor, the only option was to release him into foster care. Some might see Damon’s story as everything they fear most about fostering teens. But Damon wasn’t a “bad kid.” He was an angry kid who’d been neglected and humiliated, and he didn’t have the emotional tools to express his frustration appropriately. And then he ended up with the stigma of “juvenile offender,” making it that much harder for him to find a family when he needed one most. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families, nearly a quarter of the country’s 437,000 children in foster care are age 14 or older. Teens who “age out” of foster care at 18 (nearly 18,000 in 2018) face an uphill climb to break the cycle.
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
National Foster Youth Institute determined that of the youth who leave foster care without a family: • • • •
20% become instantly homeless 70% of young women become pregnant before age 21, and their children often enter foster care 50% are gainfully employed by age 24 Less than 3% earn a college degree at any point in their life
These statistics prove why it’s critical to connect teens like Damon with a caring parent who can give them stability, support, and guidance, as they prepare for adulthood. Just below a teen’s guarded exterior, you’ll often find a child who’s been hurt, rejected, or neglected. Maybe you’re in a position to provide the help and compassion that wasn’t available for that teen when he/she was young. Today, Damon lives with a foster mom whose son and daughterin-law are teachers. They are tutoring him and helping him catch up at school. He’s in a family environment where he’s safe, valued, and — most of all — not alone. People who love him are meeting his needs. With time and a consistent rhythm of words and actions, Damon can embrace a reality most of us take for granted: • • •
You’re safe. You’re surrounded by people who care about you. You’re not alone.
Doesn’t every child deserve that? Visit the Bethany Christian Services website to learn how to become a foster parent or to explore other services that keep children loved, connected, and safe.
Bethany Christian Services 6645 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, NE, Atlanta, GA 30328-1606 770-455-7111 Bethany.org/Atlanta More through the door!
17th Annual
CANTON
festival OF THE Arts
R
eturning before Mother’s Day with unique gifts for all, thousands of people will enjoy fun activities for the whole family including chalk art, great food, live music, and fabulous creations by more than 50 artists at this year’s Canton Festival of the Arts on May 2-3.
Brown Park 251 E. Marietta Street Canton, GA 30114 CantonArtFestival.com
With one-of-a-kind jewelry, pottery, paintings, mixed media, wood carvings, and more at every price point, the festival is a great place to shop for the perfect Mother’s Day gift. Other available items include jams, jellies, soaps, and lotions by local makers. Live music will be provided by great singer-songwriters from the northwest Georgia mountains. Additionally, families can get in on the art action because everyone is invited to make chalk art masterpieces! Produced by the Cherokee County Arts Center, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching community life through the arts, the festival will be held at Brown Park in downtown Canton. Follow @CantonFestival on Facebook or visit the website for more information.
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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8 Myths About Vein Disease By Peter Wrobel, M.D.
successful it is. The insurance coverage is determined by a diagnostic ultrasound.
[HealthyLife] Did you know that varicose
CROSSING YOUR LEGS CAUSES VARICOSE VEINS. No, crossing your legs does not cause varicose veins. While increased pressure can cause blood to pool inside a vein and make the vein bulge, it’s not external pressure that does it. It’s more likely due to defective valves in your veins or weakened vein walls.
Myth 3 veins are incredibly common? They affect one in four U.S. adults, or about 22 million women and 11 million men between the ages of 40 and 80. Here are eight confusing myths about vein disease to help set the record straight.
Myth 1 VARICOSE VEINS ARE ONLY A COSMETIC ISSUE. The most harmful misconception about vein disease is that it is a cosmetic concern rather than a legitimate disease. This misconception lends itself to the idea that there is no need to seek treatment unless it causes physical pain. If vein disease goes untreated, you are likely to experience continued pain, fatigue, and swelling of the legs and ankles. In more serious situations, patients can develop edema, a blood clot (DVT), and/or venous ulcers.
Myth 2 INSURANCE DOES NOT COVER VEIN TREATMENT. Because varicose veins and chronic venous disease can lead to more serious medical conditions, most insurance plans will cover treatment. The earlier vein disease is treated, the more 36
Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
Myth 4 RUNNING CAN CAUSE VARICOSE VEINS. Exercise — including running — is usually a good thing for your veins. Exercise is always good for circulation. Walking or running can lead to more calf muscle pumping and more blood returning to the heart. Being a runner doesn’t cause varicose veins. Compression stockings can help prevent blood from pooling in your lower legs during exercise.
Myth 5 COMPRESSION STOCKINGS CURE VEIN DISEASE. Although compression stockings that provide graduated compression from the ankle up to the knee or thigh help to reduce pain and swelling, they only help to manage symptoms and do not provide a cure. They are required to be worn after most vein procedures.
Myth 6 ULCERS ONLY NEED WOUND CARE. Venous skin ulcers are slow to heal and often come back if you don’t take steps to prevent them. Treating the underlying vein disease has proven to increase ulcer healing rates and decrease recurrence rates.
Myth 7 VARICOSE VEINS ALWAYS REOCCUR. The recurrence of varicose veins after treatment is a myth born from prior inadequate care. Treatment methods in the past, while done with best intentions, actually caused recurrence of varicose veins. Once veins are successfully treated by a qualified physician, the recurrence rates should be less than 5%.
Myth 8 MEN DO NOT GET VARICOSE VEINS. It is reported that 42% of men will suffer with CVI by the time they reach their 60s. Though men are less likely to seek varicose vein treatment, they are at risk for more severe venous diseases if they ignore the symptoms. L
Dr. Peter Wrobel is a physician at North Georgia Vein & Wellness, with offices in Canton and Cumming. 678-513-1600. NorthGeorgiaVein.com
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Book Review BY JESSICA ORAVEC
Things You Save in a Fire
T
hings You Save in a Fire is a wonderful tale of love, forgiveness, and firefighting. As a firefighter, Cassie does her duty well. But as she is being honored for an act of heroism, her past comes back with a vengeance, and she does something that ends her firefighting career in Austin.
But when Cassie’s mom asks her to come live with her for a year to help her recover, she is given a second chance at firefighting. However, this opportunity means living with a mom she hasn’t seen in 10 years and whose choices she refuses to forgive, being in a firehouse with guys who don’t want her there, and (most disturbing of all) having a crush on the rookie who joined the team the same day she did. As Cassie sorts through her feelings and tries to forgive, she will be tested in ways that she couldn’t have imagined. But when it all comes to a head, she will learn that the things you save in a fire are the things that matter most — the things worth fighting for. Author Katherine Center does a wonderful job of creating three-dimensional characters in this book. She gives the reader an appreciation for what it’s like to be a firefighter — the drills, the prep work, the coping mechanisms, the danger and subsequent adrenaline, and the heartbreak that comes along with it all. Center’s characters are multifaceted, complex creatures. This story of forgiveness and the things that matter most evokes many emotions. Jessica Oravec lives in Cherokee County and is an avid reader and a children’s minister. She holds a B.B.A. from Mercer and a Master of Divinity in Christian education from McAfee School of Theology.
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
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Ribbon Cuttings, Ground Breakings, and Celebrations
North Georgia Vein & Wellness 100 Liberty Boulevard, Suite 110 Canton 678-582-2130 Healthcare
Chick-fil-A Canton Riverstone Parkway
1459 Riverstone Parkway Canton 770-479-7146 Restaurant
Beach2Beach
678-951-5885 Facebook.com/beach2beachcleanup Environmental Clean Up
Primo’s Pizza & Italian Kitchen 12910 Highway 92 Woodstock 770-926-9184 Restaurant For information about upcoming events, please visit InWDSTK.org
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
More through the door!
Success With
Container Gardening By Joshua Fuder
ones, need adequate space for root development. Small pots restrict root growth, which will result in limited top growth. Containers that are tall (more than 12 inches) will take a large amount of soil to fill them completely, or you can fill the bottom with light-weight materials like aluminum cans or old nursery pots placed open end down.
[HomeLife] Containers come in all
If you choose a pot without holes for drainage, it is recommended to use a double pot method. This requires that you pot in a different container that has drainage holes, and then place it on gravel inside the pot without holes.
Choosing plants for the container is much like traditional garden design, but principles like form, texture, color, and proper proportion are even more important than in a larger landscape. For a balanced look, don’t let plants be more than two-thirds of the overall height of the container. For shallow or small pots, choose plants that won’t get too large or choose options with small foliage. For large or tall containers, choose items with medium-to-tall mature size or those with large leaves (or both).
Container size is also important. Outdoor container plants, especially fast-growing
Successful containers will have a “thriller” plant as the central focal point. Items
shapes and forms — from beautifully glazed, colorful pots to old rubber boots. Beauty in the landscape is in the eye of the beholder, but the function is the same. The most important consideration is whether it has adequate drainage.
Serving Woodstock, including Towne Lake
that work well in this role have compact, upright growth such as salvia, grasses and Dracaena spike. Around the “thriller,” you want to create a sense of flow, so complementary or “fillers” should be used. Good “filler” examples include geraniums, Dusty Miller, and heliotrope. To get that lush, overflowing look, add additional plants that serve as the “spiller.” Sweet potato vine, verbenas, vinca vines, and portulacas will give the container a soft edge that is sure to impress.
Joshua Fuder is an agriculture and natural resources agent at the UGA Cooperative Extension Cherokee County. 770-721-7830. CAES.UGA.edu/extension/cherokee
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Advertiser Index Anderson Dental
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Brandon Beach for State Senate
28-29, Back Cover
Burns Law Group
35
Camp Invention
15
Canton Festival of the Arts
35
Canton River Rock
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Clean Office Exec, LLC
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Elm Street Cultural Arts Village
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Fore the Children Golf Tournament
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The Goddard School
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GrassRoots Tree & Turf Care
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GT Plumbing
19
Hickory Flat Volunteer Association
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Holbrook Woodstock
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Huntington Learning Center
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Jyl Craven Hair Design
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Landscape Matters
31
Law Office of S. Judson Waites, II, P.C.
40
LGE Community Credit Union
1
Masterpiece Framer
16
MUST Ministries Charity Golf Tournament
19
North Georgia Vein & Wellness
17
Painting Plus
13
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
17
and Dentistry at Canton Plastic Surgery Center of the South
27
Realtor, Dawn Sams
13
Re-Elect Michelle Homier for State Court Judge
3
Rock for Rescues Festival 5 Summit Financial Solutions
39
Thomas Insurance Agency, Inc.
14
Tuscany Italian Restaurant Woodstock Funeral Home
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Woodstock Pediatric Medicine
23
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
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Woodstock Family Life | APRIL 2020
3
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