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21 Publisher & Co-Owner Brian Meek Executive Editor & Co-Owner Michelle Meek
Brain Balance Achievement Centers Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
editorial Editor Cherryl Greenman Editor Michelle Martin
art Graphic Designer Tiffany Atwood Graphic Designer Candice Williams
sales
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Market Director Janet Ponichtera Advertising Designer Ashley George
AUGUST 2012
contributors
2012 High School Varsity Football Schedules Alpharetta, Cambridge & Milton
Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC) CNC’s Discovery Center is celebrating its 3rd Anniversary
Footprints Leaving a Legacy
Back to School
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In Every Issue
4 My Alpharetta 6 Calendar 8 Community news 10 Celebrations 13 school Info 18 Library News 33 Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Directory Listings
34 religious services 36 clubs & Organizations 38 Local Officials 40 Advertiser index 2
My Alpharetta | august 2012
Photographers Jack Tuszynski, Devon Morgan Writers Ronald Bradley, Michael Buckner, Michael Consoli, Paula Duncan, Brett Gluck, David Belle Isle, Dan Jape, Charles E. Martin, Michelle Martin, Vishant Nath, Debra Robinson, Debbie Spamer, Dixie Whitman
Volume 1 | Issue 10 113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 204 Canton, GA 30115 tel. (770) 720-7497 fax. (770) 720-1329 editor@myalpharettamonthly.com admanager@myalpharettamonthly.com www.myalpharettamonthly.com My Alpharetta Monthly magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Footprints Publishing, LLC. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community based advertising. Each month, more than 15,000 copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the Alpharetta area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found. My Alpharetta Monthly welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. 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. My Alpharetta Monthly 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.
© 2012 All rights reserved. My Alpharetta Monthly is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25 percent recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.
Georgia’s trusted leader in radiology In radiology, it’s one thing to see; it’s another to understand. Northside’s expert team of board-certified radiologists and sub-specialists are trained extensively to interpret general to specialized imaging—from pediatric MRI to digital mammography and interventional radiology of the spine. We combine exceptional care and the latest technologies, bringing our expertise to convenient locations throughout your community. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
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ALPHARETTA Community — Home
by Cherryl Greenman, editor@myalpharettamonthly.com
The Shoppes at the Cotton House, 21 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta, is scheduled to open Saturday, August 4. The shoppes will feature interior designers, antique dealers, new, antique and repurposed furniture, rugs and flooring specialists, home decor accessories, lighting/lamps/shades, unique finds, outdoor/patio furniture, artwork, horse & barn accessories and more. This year Northbrook United Methodist Preschool, 11225 Crabapple Road, Roswell, will be celebrating its 30th year of educating and nurturing many of the children from North Fulton and the surrounding areas. “We have always been a high quality program and there is much staff longevity,” says director, Dr. Emily Johnson. Northbrook’s first director was Betty Mullenix; her daughter, Jan Holcombe, was the 2nd director; her granddaughter, Lindsey Nieves, attended the first class; and her great granddaughter, Finley Holcombe, will attend Northbrook this fall. Northbrook would like to ask all alumni, past and present, to please send well wishes and intentions to attend September 9th via email to Northbrook Preschool, 11225 Crabapple Road, Roswell, GA 30075. For more information, please email ejohnson@northbrookumc.com or call (770) 998-6667.
Left to right: Betty Mullenix, Jan Holcombe, Finley Holcombe and Lindsey Nieves
The Kohl’s Department Stores’ Kohl’s Cares® Scholarship Program honors more than 200 deserving volunteers with $1,000 scholarships toward post-secondary education. Four children from the Atlanta area, included Alpharetta student Mackenzie Bearup, were chosen from more than 35,000 nominees nationwide for making a positive impact in their local communities. Through the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program, Kohl’s is encouraging promising youth to further their education at a time when college costs have risen approximately seven percent per year for decades. Mackenzie founded Sheltering Books, Inc., an organization that has collected and donated more than 100,000 books to children in homeless shelters in 35 states and underprivileged school children in the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. CaraVita Home Care, 648 Mimosa Blvd, recently held its ribbon cutting and open house celebrations. The open house featured live demonstrations from CaraVita and 18 other companies or organizations. “For CaraVita, the goal has always been to help the families of Roswell and North Metro Atlanta meet the challenges of caregiving,” said Beth Cayce, CaraVita founder and geriatric health care professional. “In our new facility, we can operate and display Roswell’s only Smart House, offer a variety of training courses for both clients and senior care professionals, and comfortably conduct our daily business operations with the ease.” Left to right: Tracey McDonough, Laura Cayce, Amy Brannen, Roswell Councilwoman Betty Price, CaraVita Home Care founder and CEO Beth Cayce, Doreen Scascitelli of Roswell Business Alliance, State Senator John Albers, Roswell Councilwoman Nancy Diamond, RUMC Senior Pastor Dr. Mike Long, and Roswell Mayor Jere Wood. Ale Yeah! Craft Beer Market, 408 S. Atlanta Street, Roswell, is a craft beer only bottle shop, specializing in craft beers from around the world. The shop has an 18-tap growler station. Growlers are 1/4 to 1/2 gallon containers of draft beer to go. Ale Yeah! also is a market concept of many locally sourced products that can be paired with beer such as artisan cheeses, charcuterie, pretzels, mustards, jams, jellies and rubs. In addition to its extensive selection of craft beers the store also sells a small selection of fine wines. (770) 992-2246, www.aleyeahbeer.com VSOP Olive Oil & Vinegar Taproom (VSOP), 8400 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 420, Alpharetta is located in the Ellard Village (intersection of Holcomb Bridge Road and Barnwell Road / Ellard Drive) across from the Starbucks. It carries ultra fresh, ultra premium extra virgin olive oils and ultra premium, traditional style aged white and dark Balsamics, over 50 varieties on tap. Everything is available for tasting before VSOP freshly bottles it for the customer in the store. Offering three different bottle sizes: small (200 ml), medium (375 ml), and large (750 ml). VSOP features seventeen single varietal Extra Virgin Olive Oils that range from very mild (low intensity) to very, very robust, so there is one to please everyone’s palate. The list is endless, if you are looking for something with a lighter feel try one of the aged white Balsamics like Honey Ginger or Sicilian Lemon. By carrying all of these products in bulk and filling the bottles as needed the savings is passed to the customer. You are invited to come in and sample what Ultra Fresh Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar is supposed to taste like. (678) 795-2002
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My Alpharetta | august 2012
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August August 4 34th ANNUAL OLD SOLDIERS DAY RACE 10K, 5K Time: 7 a.m. Location: Alpharetta City Pool Wills Park Information: (678) 297-6160, email athleticprograms@alpharetta.ga.us
60th OLD SOLDIERS DAY PARADE Time: 9:15 a.m. Information: The parade is just one way that our country’s war veterans are recognized for their service. A Memorial Service will begin on Main Street in front of Alpharetta City Hall at 9:15 a.m. – Alpharetta City Band, 10 a.m. program; 10:30 a.m. parade. Parade ends at the American Legion Post 201 on Wills Road for free food and activities.
CIRCUS FANTA Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Information: Calling all underwater artists! Help create an underwater scene out of recycled materials. 11 & 11:30 a.m., 1 & 1:30 p.m.: All ages. Grab your goggles and dive right in as Captain Tater Tot and his zany sea creatures perform unbelievable circus acts. Noon: All ages. Come out and see all of the entries for CNC’s first Recycled Animal Craft Contest. www.chattnaturecenter.com
CHUKKAR FARM CONCERT SERIES Time: 8 p.m. Location: Chukkar Farm 1140 Liberty Grove Rd., Alpharetta Information: Home by Dark Productions presents this concert series featuring James Casto, Jesse Terry, Beth Wood. Tables are available under the pavilion. 678-665-0040, karen@homebydark.com, www.chukkarfarm.com
Things to do in Alpharetta
Information: The public is invited to join poolside with your floats and enjoy a popular family movie on the big screen. This event is free to 2012 pool pass holders. General pool admission is $3 per person. (678) 297-6153, accprograms@alpharetta.ga.us
August 6 — 10 LEARN TO PLAY BRIDGE Time: 2 – 4 p.m. Location: Recreation Centers Library Age: 10 – 18 Information: Bridge For Kids” summer camp at the Alpharetta Community Center. Free of charge. Registration required. Contact: jfurvan@charter.net.
August 7 MOVIES ON MILTON Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Milton Avenue across from Alpharetta City Hall 2 South Main Street Information: The movie will begin at dusk (approximately 8:30 p.m.) on a big inflatable screen. Pre-show festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. with music, inflatables, BBQ, popcorn, sweets, and beverages. Free parking available at Alpharetta City Hall or Milton Center, 86 School Drive. Enjoy a FREE PG-13 movie on Milton Avenue! Bring your own blankets, chairs or other creature comforts to view the movie on a large screen. Featuring “The Princess Bride.” (678) 297-6000
August 11 ASO FREE CONCERT Time: 8 p.m. Location: Atlanta Symphony Hall Woodruff Arts Center Information: Guest conductor Jacomo Bairos of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra will include the Overture of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. (404) 733-5000, atlantasymphony.org
DIVE IN MOVIE SERIES Time: Location:
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7:30 p.m. Alpharetta City Pool at Wills Park
My Alpharetta | august 2012
TREE CLIMBING Times:
Noon – 2:30 p.m., 3 – 5:30 p.m.
Location: TBD Information: Learn to climb trees safety with an introductory climbing course. Professional gear and instruction will be provided. Ages 5-75+. Cost $28 Alpharetta resident, $42 non-resident. (678) 297-6153, accprograms@ alpharetta.ga.us
August 14 OPTIMAL HEALTH SEMINAR Time: 10 a.m. Location: Woodstock Recreation Bldg 7545 Main Street Information: Are you struggling with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other lifestyle related diseases? Find out why you are gaining weight and what you can do about it. Led by Dr. Craig Hoffman, M.D., and Linda Hoffman, health coach. (770) 345-4432
August 16, 21 VIRTUAL GASTRIC BAND SEMINAR Time: 7 – 8 p.m. Location: Georgia Hypnotherapy Associates 6478 Putnam Ford Dr., Woodstock Information: Georgia Hypnotherapy Associates, LLC, is hosting complementary presentations, “Tired of Yo-Yo Dieting?” Learn about the virtual gastric band for weight loss as seen on Dr. Oz. The presentation is free but requires advance registration due to limited seating. Register by emailing date and number of attendees to GeorgiaHypnotherapy@live.com or by calling (678) 938-7274, www.VirtualGastricBandGeorgia.com.
August 24, 25 RAISE A RACKET Location: Brookfield Country Club Information: Brookfield Country Club is once again hosting Raise A Racket, a fundraising event benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Raise A Racket is a unique spin on highlighting knowledge of and providing support to people with Cystic Fibrosis and their families, as well as fund research to help find a cure. Pool Party, Friday, August 24 from 7 – 9 p.m.
On-Going ALPHARETTA FARMERS MARKET Dinner and adult refreshments Team Tennis Tournament, Saturday, August 25 from 9 a.m. – noon. 3 men and 3 women per team or register as individual. Catered lunch included. Tennis Ball, Saturday, August 25 from 7 – 11 p.m. Casual cocktail party with live band and buffet. Fee of $166, includes admission to pool party and tennis ball. Silent and live auction items. Additional information and to register: www.raisearacket.net
August 25 AAUA MEETING
August 26 8th ANNUAL MISS MARY’S ICE CREAM CRANKIN’ Time: 2 – 4 p.m. Location: Roswell Square Information: Several businesses, service groups, faith-based organizations, and more will crank ice cream for you to sample at $5 per person or $20 per family (up to 6). Benefits Drake House of Roswell. www.missmarysicecream.org
TOOLS OF SCIENCE
Time: 10 a.m. – noon Location: TBA, Karenleasman@aol.com Information: The local branch of North Fulton Branch of the American Association of University Women, consists of women who reside in Cumming, Roswell, Alpharetta, John’s Creek, Milton and Sandy Springs. As part of the national AAUW, members are committed to advancing equity for women and girls through advocacy, education and research. Contact the Branch’s membership chair at karenleasman@aol.com to attend.
TOTS TO TWEENS CONSIGNMENT SALE Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Location: Sandy Plains Baptist Church 2825 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta Information: Sponsored by Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples (formerly Cobb Parents of Multiples Club). Everything you need for your family! Strollers welcome! (678) 404-0034, www.NOWAMOM.org
Contest Corner
Find the hidden picture
Time: 1 – 4 p.m. Age: 8 – adult Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Information: Explore the tools scientists use to learn about the world around us! Check out microscopes, binoculars, magnifying glasses, water quality testers, a solar telescope and more! www.chattnaturecenter.com
August 27 2012 HOMESTRETCH GOLF TOURNAMENT Time: 10 a.m. Registration 11 a.m. Shot gun start Location: The Manor Golf & Country Club 15951 Manor Club Dr., Alpharetta Information: HomeStretch gives homeless parents and their children a safe and comfortable place to live while simultaneously helping them address the root causes of their situation.
Date/Time: Each Saturday through October 6 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Location: Historic Downtown Alpharetta City Hall parking Lot Information: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and natural meats. Gardeners offering fresh flowers and herbs; also edible home goods: desserts and breads to local raw honey and homemade sauces, jellies, soaps.
ALPHARETTA ART IN THE PARK Date/Time The last full weekend of each month through October Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Location: Old Milton Park 35 Milton Avenue Information: There will be up to 50 vendors each month for your pleasure. www.gallery35.com
September 11 SQUARE DANCE CLASSES Time: 7 – 9 p.m. Location: Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road Information: Cherokee Squares Square Dance Club is offering beginning classes. (770) 917-8251
September 15 — 16 IRONKIDS TRIATHLON Location: Wills Park Information: Over 1,400 children participated in the 2011 IronKids Triathlon in Alpharetta. www.ironkids.com
Candice Nolan was our winner for July’s contest corner. She will receive a gift card to Bruster’s. Congratulations! If you find the hidden picture, be the first to email: art@myalpharettamonthly.com *Only emailed answers will be accepted. Contest participants are able to win one time per calendar year
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COMMUNITY Northside Hospital is First To Use Wireless Pacemaker
Northside Hospital is the first hospital in Metro Atlanta and among the first in the country to treat patients with the new wireless INGENIO™ pacemaker, manufactured by Boston Scientific. This state-of-the-art technology allows Northside cardiologists to remotely monitor the respiratory and heart rates of their cardiac patients around the clock and from any computer system via a secure website. Dr. Michael Balk, managing partner, Northside Cardiology, implanted the first device at Northside in May. “With this new technology, when a patient walks into the bedroom to sleep, his pacemaker communicates automatically and wirelessly with a special transmitter that is plugged into the phone jack; there’s no work needed on the patient’s part,” said Dr. Balk.
NFCID Receives $1 Million SRTA Grant
The Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank recently presented a $1 million grant to the North Fulton Community Improvement District to assist in funding its Encore Parkway Bridge transportation infrastructure project. The Encore Parkway Bridge improvements will connect the entertainment at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater with the shops, restaurants and office space near North Point Mall, fostering a more sustainable live-work-play environment in the North Fulton community. The project will include the reconstruction of the Encore Parkway Bridge over GA 400: widening to provide turn lanes, signal upgrades and signal timing, bicycle and pedestrian improvements, way finding, and connectivity to existing multi-use trails to match the North Fulton Community Improvement District (NFCID) overlay standards. The GTIB program is a revolving infrastructure investment fund established in 2008 by Georgia legislators and administered by the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA).
Promotions and New Hire at BNG
Bank of North Georgia (BNG), a division of Synovus Bank, announced that Allen Barker (pictured top), executive vice president, has been promoted to chief community banking executive, and Frank Roedl (pictured middle), executive vice president, has been promoted to chief corporate banking executive. Additionally, John Bystrom (pictured bottom) is joining Bank of North Georgia as director of retail banking. Allen will oversee the Community Banking Division for Bank of North Georgia and Bank of Coweta, which includes four banking regions as well as the newly created Retail Banking Division that represent 43 branches in 16 Metro Atlanta counties. As chief corporate banking executive, Frank will be responsible for managing the Atlanta region’s specialty lines of business, including commercial real estate, private banking, financial management services, corporate banking, and special assets. John is joining Bank of North Georgia from Bank of Nashville, a division of Synovus Bank, and will serve under Allen Barker’s leadership. He will be responsible for managing the Atlanta region’s retail branch network of 43 branches and all retail lending activities. 8
My Alpharetta | august 2012
Front row (left to right): CID project assistant Kristin Rome, CID board chairman Kerry Armstrong, Governor Nathan Deal, CID chief executive officer Brandon Beach, and CID Chief Operating Officer Ann Hanlon. Back row: Tad Leithead, Lynn Rainey, and Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle.
2nd Annual Power of Pink Event
Last year, more than 300 community members joined with North Fulton Hospital to raise almost $20,000 through the inaugural Power of Pink Breast Cancer Awareness event — a charity luncheon, fashion show, and silent auction — to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Greater Atlanta Affiliate. This year, the hospital hopes to surpass last year’s impressive total at the second-annual Power of Pink event, which will be held Friday, September 21, at the Country Club of the South in Johns Creek.
For the second year in a row, Kimberly-Clark Health Care is the event’s platinum sponsor. “Last year, North Fulton Hospital, our sponsors, and our community took a stand against breast cancer through this wonderful event, and now we’re ready to do it again,” says Dr. Laura Rivers Pearson, breast surgeon and medical director of the North Fulton Hospital Breast Program. “Together we can help to increase awareness and help our community understand the importance of screenings and physician examinations. Early detection can make all the difference.” Left to right: Kimberly-Clark’s John Amat, vice president of health care sales and marketing, and Beverly Yearack, director of community relations, present a check for their platinum sponsorship to North Fulton Hospital’s Deborah C. Keel, CEO, and Lindsey Harber, director of business development and marketing.
Northside #1 Nationally Marrow Donor Program
The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), the federally funded organization that facilitates most unrelated bone marrow transplants in the United States, has released data that indicate Northside Hospital’s blood and marrow transplant (BMT) program has, by far, the best survival rates for matched related and unrelated transplants of any program in the country. This is the third consecutive year that Northside has come out on top. The most recently reported data spans from years 2007 through 2009. “The BMT program’s high level of expertise in blood and marrow transplant therapy and strong portfolio of clinical research play an integral role in Northside’s award from the NCCCP,” said Bob Quattrocchi, president and CEO, Northside Hospital.
Northside Hospital Recognized as an NCI Community Cancer Center
Northside Hospital has been selected by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to continue its participation in the organization’s national network of community cancer centers. A member of the NCI Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP) since 2010, Northside is one of only 21 sites nationwide and the only hospital in Metro Atlanta to have this honor. When Northside was originally chosen by NCI as a Community Cancer Center in 2010, the hospital entered into a new era in cancer care in Atlanta. Over the last two years, Northside has taken great strides to utilize the opportunities that come with being a part of the NCCCP and to expand its regional position as one of the largest and most respected providers of comprehensive cancer services. “We have seen tremendous growth of our cancer institute; we have impacted the lives of hundreds of patients by extending access to care to those patients most in need,” said Guilherme Cantuaria, M.D., medical director of the NCCCP at Northside Hospital. “Our strong focus on quality has strengthened us as leaders in the field of cancer treatment.”
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WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTO IN OUR CELEBRATION SECTION? Birthday, Anniversary & Wedding Announcements are Free!
Babies, Birthdays and Anniversaries
Hudson McKoy
Tiffany Chesin
Age 3 on August 28 Happy 3rd Birthday! We Love you! Mommy, Daddy, Madison & Jasper
Age 8 on August 27 Happy 8th Birthday to our angel! Love, Mommy, Daddy & Amanda
James Chliaras
Caroline McCann
Age 1 on August 8 Happy Birthday Baby Boy! We love you, Mommy, Daddy, YiaYia, & Grandpa
Age 4 on August 1 Happy Birthday, Caroline! We love you so much! Mommy, Daddy & Jackson
Peter, Anthony & Michael Ascher Peter: Age 6 on July 20 Anthony: Age 12 on September 8 Michael: Age 51 on September 6 Happy Birthday!
10 My Alpharetta | august 2012
My Alpharetta Monthly 113 Mountain Brook Dr., Suite 204, Canton, GA 30115 or art@myalpharettamonthly.com Deadline is July 15th for the August Issue!
Justin Muchunu Kamina
Mark Streit
Age 9 on August 8 Happy Birthday Muchunu! We are very proud of you! Love, Muthoni, Mum & Dad
Age 50 on August 1 Happy Birthday! Love, The Milton Consortium including their fearless leader, NEWTON!
Dottie Disney
Nathan Tellason
Age 1 on August 5 Happy Birthday! We love you very much! Love, Mommy & Momma
Age 8 on August 5 Happy 8th Birthday! Love, Joel, Mom & Dad
Marilyn, Lauren, Ryan & John Flynn Happy 1st Birthday! We love you always, Daddy & Mommy
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ALPHARETTA high school
MILTON
high school Scrimmage
Scrimmages August 10 August 17 August 31 September 7 September 14 September 21 September 28 October 5 October 12 October 19 October 27 November 2 November 9
7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Raider Day @ Roswell HS
7:30 p.m. Milton HS 7:30 p.m. @ Harrison HS 7:30 p.m. @ Lovejoy HS 7:30 p.m. West Forsyth HS 7:30 p.m. @ South Forsyth HS BYE 7:30 p.m. North Forsyth 7:30 p.m. Chattahoochee 7:30 p.m. @ Lambert HS 7:30 p.m. Centennial 7:30 p.m. @ Johns Creek HS
CAMBRIDGE high school
August 31 September 14 September 21 September 28 October 5 October 12 October 19 October 26 November 2
TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA
12 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Riverwood HS South Forsyth HS Osborne HS @ Pope HS Northview HS @ Forsyth Central HS @ Creekview HS North Springs HS @ Sequoyah HS
August 16
7:30 p.m.
@ Central Forsyth HS
August 31 7:30 p.m. @ Alpharetta HS September 7 7:30 p.m. Johns Creek HS September 14 7:30 p.m. Centennial HS September 21 7:30 p.m. Roswell HS September 28 7:30 p.m. @ Wheeler HS October 4 7:30 p.m. @ Etowah HS October 12 BYE October 19 7:30 p.m. Lassiter HS October 26 7:30 p.m. @ Walton HS
(ESPN will carry game)
November 2 7:30 p.m. @ Cherokee HS November 9 7:30 p.m. Woodstock HS (Senior Night)
S C H O O L
Private & Charter Schools Alpharetta International Academy
King’s Ridge Christian School
(770) 475-0558, www.aiamontessori.com
(770) 754-5738, www.kingsridgecs.org
Amana Academy
Legacy Academy
www.amanaacademy.org
(678) 624-2234, www.lookatlegacy.org
The Atlanta Academy
(678) 461-6102, www.atlantaacademy.com
Chandler Academy
(770) 346-0509, www.chandleracademy.com
Chrysalis Experiential Academy (770) 649-7077, www.chrysalisexp.org
Creme de la Creme-Alpharetta
(770) 777-2960, www.cremechildcare.com
Eaton Academy
(770) 645-2673, www.eatonacademy.org
Public Schools Elementary Schools Alpharetta Elementary 192 Mayfield Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 740-7015 Principal: Adam Maroney
Birmingham Fall Elementary 14865 Birmingham Hwy. Milton, GA 30004 (770) 667-2820 Principal: Susan Matzkin
Cogburn Woods Elementary 13080 Cogburn Road Milton, GA 30004 (770) 667-2845 Principal: Bruce Fraser
Crabapple Crossings Elementary 12775 Birmingham Highway Milton, GA 30004 (770) 740-7055 Principal: George Freiberger
Creek View Elementary 3995 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 667-2932 Principal: Matt Rogers
Lake Windward Elementary 11770 E. Fox Court Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 740-7050 Principal: Martha Messina
Manning Oaks Elementary 405 Cumming Street Alpharetta, GA 30004 (770) 667-2912 Principal: Kirk Shrum
McGinnis Woods Country Day School (770) 664-7764, www.mcginniswoods.org
Mill Springs Academy
(770) 360-1336, www.millsprings.org
Mount Pisgah Christian School
(770) 336-3300, www.mountpisgahschool.org
Primrose School of Alpharetta
(770) 664-7508, www.primroseschools.com/Alpharetta
Primrose School of Christopher Robin (678) 339-0107 www.primroseschools.com/ChristopherRobin
Fulton County School District: www.fultonschools.org | (404) 768-3600 New Prospect Elementary
Webb Bridge Middle
Summit Hill Elementary
High Schools
3055 Kimball Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30022-4417 (770) 667-2800 Principal: Charlia Faulkner 13855 Providence Road Milton, GA 30004 (770) 2830 Principal: Nancy Murphy
Alpharetta High
Middle Schools
3595 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 521-7640 Principal: Shannon Kersey
Fulton Science Academy Middle
Cambridge High School
Haynes Bridge Middle
Centennial High
Holcomb Bridge Middle
Fulton Science Academy High
Hopewell Middle
Independence High
Northwestern Middle
Milton High
1675 Hembree Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 753-4141 Principal: Kenan Sener
2845 Bethany Bend, Milton GA 30004 (770) 667-2883 Principal: Dr. Spurka
10665 Haynes Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 740-7030 Principal: Lauren Seidman
9310 Scott Road Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 650-4230 Principal: Steven Miletto
2700 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 594-5280 Principal: Joy Schroerlucke
4100 Old Milton Parkway, Suite 100 Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 475-3223 Principal: Namik Sercan
13060 Cogburn Road Milton, GA 30004 (678) 297-3240 Principal: Lenora Patterson
86 School Drive Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 521-7611 Principal: Tabatha Taylor
12805 Birmingham Highway Milton, GA 30004 (770) 667-2870 Principal: Jasmine Kullar
2012 — 2013 Calendar at a Glance August 13 September 3 October 15
4455 Webb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 (770) 667-2940 Principal: Susan Opferman
First Day of School Holiday/Schools Closed Teacher Workday
13025 Birmingham Highway Alpharetta, GA 30004 (770) 740-7000 Principal: Cliff Jones
Local Colleges & Universities DeVry University
(770) 619-3600, www.devry.edu
Georgia Perimeter College (404) 413-7878, www.gpc.edu
Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com Parent Connect: www.fultonschools.org/parent_connect.htm
Lanier Technical College
(770) 781-6800, www.laniertech.edu
North Fulton Center of Reinhardt University
(770) 720-9191, www.reinhardt.edu
University of Phoenix North Alpharetta
Learning Center (678) 731-0555, www.phoenix.edu
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The Chattahoochee Nature Center is located on the Chattahoochee River in Roswell and sits on a beautiful site comprised of 127 acres of native plants and gardens that showcase the beauty of Georgia. It has a River Boardwalk, Discovery Center, wetland demonstration gardens and woodland trails that are home to over 50 species of injured, non-releasable wildlife. For 30 years, this facility has continued to grow and reach out to citizens as a place to explore new ideas and expand the awareness of the natural world. The Discovery Center is celebrating its third anniversary and this is a wonderful time to reflect on what a great addition the Chattahoochee Nature Center has made to the Metro Atlanta region. In fact, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) was recently designated as the nation’s first National River Trail. Locals and tourists alike visit the award winning Discovery Center at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, tucked away along the River on Willeo Road, it is a wonderful place to spark your spirit of natural discovery. A place where nature ‘comes alive’! More than just a museum or science center, the Discovery Center serves as the Interpretative Center for the entire Chattahoochee River, housing four distinct and separate areas that explain the intricate web of life that makes up the unique watershed of the Chattahoochee River. The Explore Your Watershed Gallery guides visitors on a journey from river-to-wetland-to-forest. Featuring live native animals, interactive games and more, this hands-on, minds-on interactive exhibit takes you on a natural exploration to learn how plants and animals work together to make a watershed thrive. Also part of the hands-on experience is the Nature Exchange, a unique nature trading post and learning environment where over 3,300 active collectors interact with trained naturalists and are awarded points for objects they’ve found. These points can then be redeemed to trade for other natural items on display. The Chattahoochee River Resource Gallery, serves as the portal of information to the Chattahoochee River watershed. Housed in this unique, one-of-a-kind information gallery is everything a visitor needs to experience the watershed first-hand. From fun outdoor recreation to conservation and restoration efforts, this timely gallery highlights ways to conserve, rethink, restore and enjoy our vital watershed. Rooftop Garden Terrace, or “Green Roof” is designed to capture rain runoff, and is home to native plants found on the rocky outcrops of Georgia. It is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment of reflection during your busy visit, with a view of the Chattahoochee River in the background. 14 My Alpharetta | august 2012
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As summer vacation becomes a wistful memory and families jump back into the school year routine, we can all use some tips to help us get back on a schedule and prepare for success. Read on for helpful hints and websites to start the new year off right and keep it going smoothly all year long.
www.healthychildren.org The following health and safety tips are from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Developing Good Homework and Study Habits • Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that offers privacy. • Schedule ample time for homework. • Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time. • Supervise computer and internet use. • Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child’s homework for him or her. • Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive. • If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren’t able to help him or her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child’s teacher first.
Making the Start of a New School Year Easier • Remind your child that she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible. • Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun. He/she willsee old friends and meet new ones. Refresh positive memories about previous years, when he/she may have returned home with high spirits because he/she had a good time. • Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus. • If you feel it is appropriate, drive your child (or walk with him/her) to school.
Backpack Safety • Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back. • Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back. The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s body weight. • Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles. • If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. This type of backpack may be a good choice for students who must tote a heavy load. Remember that rolling backpacks still must be carried up stairs, and they may be difficult to roll in snow.
Wise Websites Visit these sites for healthy lunch ideas, study tips, medical check-ups and more!
www.nasponline.org www.parentfurther.com www.kidshealth.org www.schoolfamily.com www.usa.gov/topics/back-to-school.shtml 16 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Don’t forget to send us your
First Day of School PicTUREs Deadline is August 20 See page 5 for more details.
Color the image below and send to My Alpharetta Monthly for a chance to win our Back to School Coloring Contest! Prizes will be awarded in each age group: Under 5, 5 – 9, 10 – 12.
Name:
Age:
Address: Phone Number: Mail to: My Alpharetta Monthly 113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 204, Canton, GA 30115
Only completed entries will be considered. Deadline for entries is August 17.
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LIBRARY
augustEvents
August 7 My Own Song Box Craft
Atlanta-Fulton Public Library | Alpharetta Branch 238 Canton Street, (770) 740-2425 Hours: Monday, Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday: 10 – 6 p.m. Friday, Saturday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed Sunday
Time: 10:30 – 11 a.m. Age: Toddler, Infant Information: Children and caregivers will make this craft together. Decorate a box that will help you decide what song to sing next. Space is limited to 20 participants. Reservations recommended. (770) 740-2425, amy.alexander@fultoncuntyga.gov
End of Summer Craft Time: 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Age: Preschool, 3 – 5 Information: Children and caregivers will make an end of summer craft together. Space is limited to 20 participants. Reservations recommended. (770) 740-2425, amy.alexander@fultoncountyga.gov
August 8 Button Mania Time: 3 – 4 p.m. Age: 12 – 18 Information: Button mania will fill your need for back to school accessories. Make buttons to decorate your backpack, magnets for your locker and a mirror for your pocket. Discover the mania of making your own buttons. (770) 740-2425, Amy.alexander@fultoncountyga.gov
August 14 Summer Reading With Alpharetta Book Club Time: 5 – 6 p.m. Information: Snuggle up with selected books and join the Alpharetta Book Club for exciting book discussions. Free to community. (770) 740-2425, cassandra.lamar@fultoncountyga.gov
18 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Sweet Dreams Baby/Toddler Story Time Tuesdays: 10:30 – 11 a.m. Audience: 0 – 2 years old Dream Big Family Story Time Tuesdays: 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Age: Preschool
August 23 Back in School Crafts for Kids Time: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Ages: 8 – 11 Information: Join your library friends for hands on crafts and creativity. We’ll make a fun school themed craft. May require the use of scissors. Space is limited to 20 participants. Reservations recommended. (770) 740-2425, amy.alexander@fultoncountyga.gov
FOOTPRINTS
Leaving a Legacy MILITARY WORKING DOG TEAM SUPPORT ASSOCIATION, INC.
John Douangdara and his dog, Bart. Both were lost in the Chinook chopper crash on August 6, 2011.
Military Dogs Championed by Cherokee Non-Profit by Dixie Whitman “John Douangdara pulled his buddy closer — to protect him — but it was a failed attempt at saving either of their lives as the Chinook helicopter groaned its last breath. The rocket-propelled grenade struck the heart of its target on August 6, 2011, and 30 American families received a knock at their doors advising that a son or husband had been killed in action in Afghanistan. You may remember the 30 members of the American military, which included members of Seal Team Six, who died tragically last August as they rushed to support a Ranger group that was under siege and in imminent danger. I cannot forget; John Douangdara was my brother, and his buddy, Bart, was his ever present military working dog.” These haunting words are etched in Chan’s heart; she is one of the passionate Board Members of Military Working Dog Team Support Association, Inc (MWDTSA). Her brother, John, was one of America’s dog handlers who has made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. MWDTSA was founded in 2007 to coordinate and channel support from individuals, organizations and corporations to benefit active duty teams, retired U.S. military working dogs and veteran dog handler events. While the organization was born and bred in Cherokee County, Georgia, the grassroots efforts have touched the lives of
thousands of military dogs and handlers from across the country and beyond. For deployed handlers and veterinarians, MWDTSA provides care and comfort packages that often include difficult to obtain dog supplies or medications and serve as a reminder of home. The typical care package will include a KONG toy, grooming wipes, Doggles and the highest quality dog treats. For the handlers, packages often include coffee, dried fruit, power bars and children’s artwork. Depending on the time of year, packages might include hand or foot warmers or a cooling tie. Additionally, MWDTSA fabulous T-shirts are usually sent in holiday packages along with an extra pair of socks and items, like books or magazines, to pass the time between missions. Of course, it also tries to supply specific items requested by the handlers, like dog whistles or specific toys. Presented on the website at www. mwdtsa.org are the stories of five hero dogs like Lucca K458, who recently made international news. She was severely injured, but saved the lives of the platoon behind her and ultimately reunited in retirement with her first handler. The love that these dogs and handlers have for each other is without measure of depth or time. While the faithful dogs of Vietnam were abandoned, MWDTSA is delighted that changes were made and these K9 heroes are now able to return home, to retire and to become adopted. MWDTSA is also very proud of the role it has in supporting the military teams every day.
Military Working Dog, Fons, retired from active duty to live at home with his handler.
The website offers an amazing array of information regarding Military Working Dogs, hundreds of brilliant photos, an often-updated blog and subscription link to a free, award-winning online newsletter, Kennel Talk. MWDTSA plans to introduce its new 2013 calendar in eStore, Dog Tagz, on August 6, the one year anniversary of the loss of John Douangdara.
al lunt MWDTSA is looking for a few good volunteers and financial or in-kind donations to support its many missions. Donations may be made via Pay Pal at mwdtsa.org or by sending a check to P.O. Box 5864, Canton, GA 30014. Volunteers with skills in speaking, fund-raising, computer skills, design and writing are among the many areas of need. For additional info or to volunteer, please contact: info@mwdtsa.org
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COVER
BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS
W i t g h n C i t h c i e l d n r e n o C & Changing Lives n
As
by Michelle Martin
executive director of Brain Balance of Atlanta, Dr. Peter Scire has helped hundreds of children overcome various learning deficiencies and behavioral issues through the program’s unique approach to cognitive and motor sensory function. Children experience behavioral, social and academic challenges, he explains, often as a result of a “functional disconnect,” or imbalance in the left and right sides of the brain. Brain Balance’s unique program integrates physical and cognitive exercises along with dietary changes — customized according to the children’s individual needs based on Brain Balance’s comprehensive assessment of brain and body function — to correct the underlying imbalance, improve overall function, and reduce or entirely eliminate negative behaviors. The system has been so successful that it has been used in 54 Brain Balance Achievement Centers nationwide, including Dr. Scire’s other Brain Balance locations in Suwanee and Peachtree City. Hoping to further improve the Brain Balance program locally, Dr. Scire recently launched a research project examining the data and results of his three Brain Balance centers. Amber Harty, an experienced educator with a focus in motor development, began serving as the new director of the Roswell location in April. “Dr. Scire has been a great mentor,” she says. “Our initial results are reassuring that what we’re doing here at Brain Balance is effective, and we hope that Dr. Scire’s research will help us identify new cognitive and motor sensory exercises to improve children’s lives even more.” Harty’s primary duties as director of the Brain Balance Achievement Center in Roswell include administering and analyzing tests to identify children’s cognitive and sensory motor deficiencies; developing customized programs, including dietary recommendations, to address individual needs; working with parents to help them understand the goals of the individual programs; and monitoring children’s progress to determine if any modifications are needed to help them reach specific goals. “I’ve always had a passion to help improve children’s lives,” she says, noting that it’s important to be able to connect with children on their level and also to understand how their problems affect those around them. “Parents are often surprised by just how quickly they notice improvements in their children. For many parents and children, it’s been a long, difficult struggle that has affected the daily life of the entire family. Even small achievements can have a big impact.”
Left to right: Amy Campbell, Assistant Director; Tammy Marshall, Cognitive Coordinator; Jessica Friedman, Sensory Motor Coordinator; Amber Harty, Center Director
As Harty explains, each member of the Brain Balance team plays a vital role in improving children’s lives and helping them to reach their goals. “Our sensory motor coordinator, Jessica Friedman, understands so much about how the two sides of the brain work and how to make the exercises fun for kids,” Harty says. “She also has a lot of energy herself, which keeps the kids motivated.” According to Freidman, sensory and motor development are imperative for a child’s maturity -- and can affect something as basic as laughing. She uses activities involving balance, rhythm and timing,
Brain Balance helps improve cognitive and motor sensory imbalances often associated with:
ADHD | Autism | Asperger’s | Dyslexia | Learning Disorders 20 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net
smell identification, and visual and auditory processing to help children synchronize the two hemispheres of their brain so that they both develop equally. “It’s exhilarating to witness and be a part of children’s development, to help them reach their full potential and laugh finally,” Friedman says. Tammy Marshall, Cognitive Coordinator, helps children improve their academic performance by strengthening specific skills in the weaker hemisphere of the brain. In the right hemisphere, that could involve strengthening math reasoning or reading comprehension; in the left, it could be spelling or numerical operations. “It warms my heart to see firsthand the progress that children make in their functional development throughout their journey at Brain Balance,” she says, “and to know that I have helped them find academic success.” Amy Campbell, assistant director, says she has always wanted to work with children and touch their lives somehow. “At Brain Balance, I have the pleasure every day to help families find hope where they felt they had none and then to watch their children flourish. There could be no bigger reward in any position.” Harty says Amy’s big smile and cheerful attitude are the first things parents and children notice. “She instantly helps parents and children to relax so that they can enjoy their time here at Brain Balance.” Sometimes, it’s the parents who need motivating after a tiring or stressful day. “Our assistant director, Amy Campbell, is the first person the parents and children see — and she always has a big smile and cheerful attitude,” Harty says. “She instantly helps parents and children to relax so that they can enjoy their time here at Brain Balance.” Children’s success and enjoyment in the Brain Balance program go hand in hand, according to Harty. “The children notice the improvements in themselves — they’re getting good grades in school, making new friends, and trying new things. They feel good about themselves and want to continue to improve,” she says. “It’s great to hear children and their parents talk about how much Brain Balance has changed all of their lives.”
Success Stories Joey Roman Joey Roman, of Canton, exhibited many signs of Autism before his parents turned to Brain Balance Achievement Center in Roswell. Joey’s customized program from 2009 – 2011 improved his verbal and communication skills, interest in playing with others, and ability to show affection to his family.
Timmy Hudson Brain Balance’s Reading Plus program helped Timmy Hudson, of Atlanta, to rise from below-grade level while also improving his comprehension, spelling, writing, and overall ability to focus on schoolwork.
Tyler Willis Before Brain Balance, Tyler Willis, of Powder Springs, had difficulty concentrating and sitting still in class and was prone to outbursts. Tyler’s mother says the in-home and in-center exercises helped Tyler to reach his true potential both academically and emotionally.
Gabriel Williams Gabriel Williams often experienced mood swings and social anxiety before beginning Brain Balance treatment. Now, he is much more self-aware, independent and confident, and has many friends.
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Under the
DOME
by Representative Charles E. “Chuck” Martin
TSPLOST, Obamacare and Personal Reflections TSPLOST/TIA Vote On a monthly basis, I try to share ideas and bring up for thought, if not conversation, issues for your consideration. Over the last couple of months I recapped the Legislative Session and shared some information on the TSPLOST vote to be held on July 31st. As I write that vote hasn’t taken place, but as you read this it will be over. Let’s hope that regardless of the outcome we will be prepared to band together and move forward; I personally am tired of the commercials. Obamacare — The “Affordable Care Act”? As you know by now the Supreme Court, by a vote of 5-4, ruled Obamacare to be Constitutional. By the way, I can’t make myself call it the “Affordable Care Act,” because I don’t see where our nation can afford it. As I understand it, the opinion came as a result of the Court’s ruling that the fee associated with failing to obtain insurance was valid because of the Federal Government’s ability to levy a tax. To me, this is frightening; allow me to explain: the government can now tax you for actions you don’t take, think about it. Obamacare: Impact on Georgia If Obamacare proponents have their way the largest impact to you, a taxpayer, may not be the direct cost you incur from projected increase in healthcare premiums but from the indirect cost you would have to pay if states expand their Medicaid programs. You see, Obamacare calls for thousands to be added to the rolls of Medicaid in Georgia, at first with the Federal Government1 is picking up the tab, then the costs shift to the states. Whether paid for by the Federal Government or the State of Georgia the money must come from the taxpayer and in all likelihood that means a tax hike or more debt, in my opinion both bad. 22 My Alpharetta | august 2012
So before you jump on the bandwagon of a “feel good” cover more Georgians with Medicaid bandwagon; ask yourself if you are willing to pay for it in the form of higher taxes or increased national debt. Personally, I think I know the answer and I’m guessing it is “no.” In my opinion, Obamacare is just the latest example of Washington writing checks to buy votes, and we, the taxpayers, will be picking up the tab; personally, I’ve had enough. The Federal Government currently borrows $.40 of every $1.00 it spends, and that is prior to full Obamacare implementation. 1
Of note, personally if you will allow… My mom, Betty, had a birthday in June (nope, not going there if you are looking for a number). She’s one of the strongest people I know, beat cancer over the last two years and is simply the greatest! Love you, Mom! My son, Miles, has taken a job teaching special education and coaching at the Cambridge High School, while I will always be a Milton Eagle, Class of ’79, today I say good luck, and Go Bears! My son, Lance, got engaged in June to a wonderful girl, Mary Beth. We love her and look forward to welcoming her to our family – feel like she already belongs – I do feel old though. Thank you for allowing me to serve and I look forward to serving you in the Georgia House, our new district number of 2013 will be House District 49. Representative Chuck Martin, District 47 417 State Capitol Building, Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: (404) 656-5064, Fax: (404) 463-2249 Email: chuck.martin@house.ga.gov | Website: www.martinforgeorgia.com Twitter: Martin4GA
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CITY HALL Better Than “Good”
by Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle When I meet other mayors and they ask me, “How are things going in Alpharetta,” I usually just say. . .“Good.” I might tell them about a project, but I dare not tell them how we are really doing; our opportunities; our initiatives. It would sound like puffery, and I would seem the braggart.
and their technologies right here in our own city. It could also help seal our economic advantages among the metroarea and the Southeast.
But the truth is that the Council and the Mayor’s office are running wide open. We are revitalizing, no, reinventing Alpharetta’s Downtown with the blessing of our residents and a $29 million bond. We are seeking to activate our Downtown by breathing life into it and creating a place to do community with and among our family and friends. It’s a generational project with enough romantic symbolism to fill a novel. Yet, as great as this project is, Downtown is not the whole story.
Education is also among our objectives. We are seeking higher workforce education opportunities for our residents and businesses through the pursuit of Gwinnett Tech and other four-year institutions.
David Belle Isle is the mayor of Alpharetta. You may contact him by calling (678) 297-6020 or email dbelleisle@alpharetta.ga.us.
We have opened Westside Parkway and continue to look for ways to bring adaptive technology to our traffic signals. Highway 9 will This year, we have recognized that our be first. We have also greatest economic strength is our 900+ increased our budget for road resurfacing, reversing our technology companies located right previous trend of deferral.
This year, we have recognized that our greatest economic strength is our 900+ technology companies located right here within our borders. We have more technology jobs per capita here within our borders. We have more than any other city in the As a newly-minted city technology jobs per capita than any Southeast. It’s truly a matter council, we passed our for hometown pride. And, other city in the Southeast. It’s truly a first budget, responsibly, for the first time, we’re going matter for hometown pride. measuredly and without to do something about it. drama; we hired an We’re creating the state’s Economic Development first Technology Advisory director; we’re building our first ever economic development Commission. This commission will, among other things, help toolbox; we added and funded more downtown events for the us identify technology infrastructure solutions; incentivize coming year; we moved the Taste of Alpharetta to downtown, technology company startups in our city; and help us craft which turned out to be incredibly successful; and we’ve our economic development policies to better attract and reduced downtown regulation to attract more restaurants, retain technology companies here in Alpharetta. We have also bakeries and shops to the heart of our city. budgeted $100,000.00 for a branding initiative to brand our
“
”
city as the “Technology City of the South.” We have approved a feasibility study to explore the appropriateness of a convention and conference center. If approved, this center would allow Alpharetta and North Fulton businesses to showcase their ideas, their innovations 24 My Alpharetta | august 2012
These opportunities and successes are not mere puffery, nor are they born of conceit. Our city is simply blessed. So, please forgive any understatement I may have made to my fellow mayors. Alpharetta remains better than “good.” Alpharetta shines!
WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY Is It Right For You? By Debbie Spamer, RN, BSN, CPAN, CBN, and Paula Duncan, RN, BS, CBN, bariatric specialists, Northside Hospital There is continued concern over the nation’s growing obesity problem. Obesity is a serious health issue that can increase your risk for developing diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, cardiac disease, joint disease and even cancer. It can impact your ability to perform your job and interfere with your personal and family relationships. If you have gained excessive weight, take action and talk with your health care provider about possible weight-loss solutions. For many people, traditional diet and exercise doesn’t work. Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery may be an option to help you manage your obesity and the health consequences it brings. What is Weight-Loss Surgery? Weight-loss surgery is designed to treat morbid obesity by surgically changing the amount of food a person can consume and needs to feel satisfied. It is only performed on people who are significantly overweight and for whom diet and exercise have failed, but it is a life-changing decision that has the potential to resolve or improve serious obesity-related medical conditions and enhance quality of life. Several types of weight-loss surgery are available: Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) involves creating a small pouch out of a portion of the stomach and stapling it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a large part of the stomach. After surgery, patients feel full more quickly, which aids in controlling their hunger. With a faster weight-loss, patients may improve health issues more quickly. Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band involves placing a silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, thereby producing a quicker feeling of fullness and supporting longterm, sustainable weight-loss. The band is adjustable through a port placed under the skin. After surgery, the patient returns to the surgeon’s office, where the port is injected to fill the band. This procedure is reversible and the band can be removed. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is a laparoscopic procedure that removes around 85 percent of the stomach. What remains is small, narrow or sleeve-shaped and can hold only one to
four ounces. This restrictive, and irreversible, procedure not only severely limits food intake but also inhibits hungerstimulating hormones, both of which lead to fast and significant weight-loss. Are You a Candidate? If you are significantly overweight, have a body mass index of 30 or greater, or have a serious medical condition related to your weight, weight-loss surgery might be for you. However, surgery does have potential risks and it isn’t for everyone. Consult with your health care provider to determine what is best for you.
Atlanta’s Most Preferred for Weight-Loss Surgery Accredited by the American College of Surgeons Bariatric Surgery Center Network, Northside Hospital offers comprehensive weight loss services including stateof-the-art surgery — in Atlanta, Cherokee and Forsyth — and was the first in Georgia to perform single-incision weight-loss surgery, resulting in fewer scars for the patient. More recently, the hospital performed its first robotic gastric bypass. Northside hosts free monthly informational seminars about weight-loss surgery. Monthly support groups also are available. For information, call (404) 845-5457 in Atlanta or (770) 292-4726 in Cherokee and Forsyth. To watch in-depth videos and learn more about weightloss surgery from local experts, as well as hear from patients on their personal experiences, visit www.northside.com/healthcast.
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Preparing Your Child For A Dental Visit
by Vishant Nath, DMD It may be your child’s first dental visit. Or maybe it’s their tenth visit. Your child may be quite nervous, or maybe they are actually excited to go see the dentist. No matter what your situation is, there are several things that you can do prior to the dental visit to help your child to have a great experience.
Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Roswell Pediatric Dentistry. You may contact him at (678) 352-1090 or visit www.kidshappyteeth.com.
Perhaps the most important thing to do (or not do, actually) is this: do not project any negative feelings or experiences you might have had regarding dental visits onto your child. Not only should you keep any of your negative experiences to yourself, you should be a good role model for your child’s oral care overall. Does your child see you brush and floss regularly? Chances are, if they see this being a regular part of your routine, they will understand that it needs to be a part of their routine as well.
26 My Alpharetta | august 2012
If your child is very young (toddler age and younger) and it is their first dental visit, explain that the dentist will be looking in their mouth to count their teeth. Depending on their age, a dental cleaning may not be performed, but these early visits are vitally important in allowing your child to develop a relationship with their dentist. This relationship will be a key part of your child developing great oral health care for life. For most pediatric dental offices, the office website will have photos or a virtual tour that you can show your child. Seeing a fun-looking environment may help to alleviate some of their nervousness. You may also be able to show them photos of the dentist and other staff members. It is most important that your child realizes that everyone involved in the dental visit wants to help them and make it a great experience. Should your child require more than just a dental cleaning, the dentist and staff will have ways to explain this to your child so it is easy for them to understand. If you have confidence and trust in your child’s dentist, your child will feel more comfortable as well. As a parent, your job is to reach that level of trust and comfort. Ask as many questions as you need. Even though it is your child’s dental visit, your participation in this process is very important. Playing an active role before, during, and after the appointment can greatly enhance your child’s oral health care.
DENTAL X-rays and Radiation by Brett Gluck, DMD, MS, PC A recent article in the journal of “Cancer,” published April 10, suggested that having routine bitewing x-rays at dental checkups, is associated with a certain type of benign brain tumor (a meningioma). Since the article was published, it was reported in “The New York Times,” CNN, and Fox News.
Dr. Brett Gluck is an orthodontic specialist at The Brace Place. You may contact him at (770) 664-6003 or visit www.bracedoctor.com.
Two groups of patients between the ages of 20 and 79 were interviewed. They were asked to remember how many dental x-rays they had received at different stages of their life, including childhood. Three types of x-ray procedures were examined; bitewings (the back teeth), panoramic (1 large full view of the entire mouth), and full mouth series (up to 21 individual x-rays of all areas of the mouth). Statistical analyses were then performed to compare the recalled number of x-rays received with the presence of tumors. Researchers found no differences in the memories of patients regarding panoramic films or full mouth x-ray series. They did report that participants with meningiomas remembered having more bitewings than their counterparts. The study has drawn criticism from experts in the field. Alan Lurie, president of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, said the study was full of “severe internal inconsistencies.” He said such inconsistencies resulted from two problems. One was the study’s reliance on participants’ memory. Lurie emphasized the second internal inconsistency as the most important flaw in the study. Although the report found that bitewing dental exams were associated with high incidents of tumor growth, he noted that full-mouth x-rays, which deliver a higher dosage of radiation than bitewing exams, were not strongly correlated with tumors. Lurie stated that this discrepancy is enough to debunk the study’s results. “To me, as a radiation biologist, this pretty much invalidates the entire study,” Lurie said. “The study has serious flaws in its design and it produced some irrational results that cannot be explained, even by the researchers. Its major weakness was in the requirement that participants recall their own radiographic history from decades before, sometimes more than 50 years previous. Can you remember how many bitewings you had before you were 10? How about between 10 and 19? How continued on page 39
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Alpharetta Huntington Learning CenteR
by Michelle Martin
Preparing Students for the SAT & ACT ith the start of a new school year, many high school students and parents are preparing for college. In fact, University admission and scholarship requirements are tougher than ever, so it is important to get the Upcoming help and prepare early for SAT ACT/SAT Exams and ACT exams.
September 8: ACT October 6: SAT October 27: ACT November 3: SAT December 1: SAT December 8: ACT
One of the best ways for students to gain an academic edge is by taking advantage of the SAT and ACT exam preparation programs offered through Huntington Learning Center in Alpharetta. “It’s never too early for students to begin preparing for college entrance exams,” says Director Terry Schwarz, noting that the first ACT testing date is s few weeks away and the SAT is not long after. “Students can’t expect to just walk into the SAT or ACT exam center and achieve a high score without studying and preparing.”
Terry and Rhonda Schwarz invite you to visit Huntington Learning Center located at 12850 Highway 9 North at the corner of Windward and Highway 9 in the Windward Commons Plaza. Please call us at (678) 240-9240 or check out our website at www.alpharetta.huntingtonlearning.com for more information on Huntington Learning Center programs and services. 28 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Schwarz, along with his wife, Rhonda, works with a team of highly qualified and specially trained SAT and ACT exam prep instructors at Alpharetta’s Huntington Learning Center. The center prides itself on their team of dedicated and well prepared instructors who specialize in high level math, critical reading and/ or writing. ”Our tutors are college graduates who have obtained a high level of competency in their area of expertise and receive continual training from us,” Terry states. “In addition, we follow trends to stay current with major college and university admission requirements, scholarship opportunities, and application deadlines. To be an expert in the field and help students achieve their academic goals, we have to keep learning ourselves. That’s
Photos courtesy of Devon Morgan, www.photosynthesisatlanta.com
challenging, fun, and satisfying, all at the same time.” Alpharetta’s Huntington Learning Center exam prep programs are tailored for students in this unique environment; thus, students learn to master test-taking skills and develop problem solving skills that remain for years to come. Huntington offers three different programs to help students prepare for the SAT and ACT exams. The Premier Program is the best preparation program available. It is designed to help students maximize their scoring potential through Additional Academic Support concentrated study sessions in math, writing and critical Huntington Alpharetta also offers individualized, reading. Students’ individual strengths and weaknesses one-on-one instruction in math, phonics, reading are assessed through a full-length SAT or an ACT test that comprehension, spelling, vocabulary, writing, and study is used as a diagnostic tool. This tool provides a detailed skills. Huntington works with analysis which is used to design students in grade K through a personal plan targeting the Also offering assistance in: 12, as well as college and student’s individual needs. In adult students. As Schwarz Academic Skills addition to the initial test, Schwarz explains, custom programs Subject Tutoring says students in the Premier are developed according to High School Entrance Exams Program take scheduled full-length students’ individual needs. “These Advance Placement Testing practice tests to help measure their needs are assessed through progress. The test help students a comprehensive academic become more familiar with the evaluation of skills that are format and helps to identify gaps that may still need essential to students’ success in the classroom,” he says. additional instruction. Often, Schwarz finds that students aren’t performing well in a number of subjects simply because they may lack Huntington also offers 28-Hour and 10-Hour SAT/ACT oneskills in a specific area, such as reading comprehension. on-one prep programs. Generally, the 28-hour program is Poor reading comprehension skills could affect students’ designed to help students boost their overall score through confidence to read aloud, to solve math word problems, a goal that can be achieved in a shorter period of time, and to stay focused during homework, he says. “Once we while the 10-hour program concentrates on one particular identify the skill gaps and develop a program, students subject area that needs improvement. see noticeable improvements rather quickly. Our goal is to help students improve by a full grade level -- and instill in them the skills, confidence and motivation to help them achieve long-term academic success.”
12850 Highway 9 North, Alpharetta Phone (678) 240-9240 www.alpharetta.huntingtonlearning.com Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday – Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 pm.
www.footprintspublishing.com 29
POWER Of Prayer by Ron Bradley
There is much power in prayer, if correctly done. The story is told of a ship that wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men on it were able to swim to a small, desert-like island. The two survivors, not knowing Dr. Ron Bradley is the pastor at First what else to do, agreed that Baptist Church Roswell. You may they had no other recourse contact him at (770) 587-6980 or but to pray to God. However, ron@rfbc.org. to find out whose prayer was more powerful, they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island. The first thing they prayed for was food. The next morning, the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land, and he was able to eat of its fruit. The other man’s parcel of land remained barren. After a week, the first man was lonely and he decided to pray for a wife. The next day, another ship wrecked nearby, and the only survivor was a woman who swam to his side of the island. On the other side of the island, there was nothing. Eventually the first man decided to pray for clothes and more food. The next day, all of these were given to him as the belongings from yet another shipwreck were washed ashore. However, the second man still had nothing. Finally, the first man prayed for a ship, so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning, he found that overnight a ship had anchored on his side of the island. The first man was welcomed aboard the ship along with his wife and he decided to say nothing of the other man, but instead leave him on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God’s blessings since obviously none of his prayers had been answered. As the ship was about to leave, the first man heard a Voice booming, “Why are you leaving your companion on the island?” “My blessings are mine alone, since I was the one who prayed for them!” the first man answered. “His prayers were all unanswered and so he does not deserve anything.” “You are gravely mistaken!” the Voice rebuked him. “He had only one prayer, and I answered it. If it were not for his prayers, you would not have received any of My blessings.” continued on page 39 30 My Alpharetta | august 2012
DISH vs.
DirecTV 2012
sTORE DOCUMENTS On Your Smartphone
by Michael Buckner
by Michael Consoli
It seems over the years of writing about home audio and video, I get the most questions from clients concerning different TV services and how they compare. We install both Dish and DirecTV, so I am pretty unbiased about Michael Buckner is the owner of Audio which is better. At present, Intersection located at 631 E. Main Dish and DirecTV both have Street, Canton. For more information some really great new features. on any of his monthly columns, for First of all, they both now questions or to set up an appointment, call (770) 479-1000. support Pandora Internet radio and Youtube. Both also have a really comprehensive On-Demand system that lets you download your favorite TV shows and movies. Lastly, they both support Whole Home DVR where you can record something in the living room, and then play it back on any HDTV in the house! But there are some key differences that will make one better for you.
Your Smartphone’s photo album can be used for more than collecting snapshots of family, friends and the great looking entrée you just had at your favorite restaurant. I recommend using it to store photos of your important Michael Consoli is owner of travel documents. To be Cruise Planners. You may contact clear, you must bring the him at (770) 650-7667 or online at original hard copies when www.planmycruise.com. you travel, but having pictures of certain documents will provide you with back up in the event something is lost or stolen. Having digital copies of these documents also makes it easy for you in the event you need to email or text a document to someone.
DirecTV is the company that brought us the Whole Home DVR. They have taken this a step further now with the Home Media Center receiver. This is a fancy name for a new box that can record up to 5 shows at once, with none of the other TV’s in the house being forced to watch what’s being recorded! Best of all, this is only a $99 upgrade on a new installation. The limitation is though, that you can only pause a live TV show and/or browse the On-Demand library from the room where the DVR is. As far as programming, DirecTV just made their NFL package free with their Choice package ($34.99). So if you’re a major NFL fan, DirecTV is hard to beat.
1. Identification: Your passport gives you proof of citizenship, as well as supplying a photo ID. In lieu of a passport, save a picture of your driver’s license and birth certificate. Make sure identification numbers and details are readable.
Dish has been working really hard to gain your respect and business, and they created the new Hopper system that you should have seen in a commercial by now. This is very impressive system. This DVR records up to 2,000 hours of TV, and has 3 tuners built-in. For an extra $199, you can get 2 hoppers, and therefore have 6 recordings at once. Also, you can pause live TV and browse On-Demand in any room. They also have a new feature called “Prime Time Anytime” that records all 4 major TV networks from 8-10 p.m., Monday-Friday, and only uses 1 tuner to achieve this. The only tradeoff here is that all the TV’s in the house share 3 tuners if you have 1 Hopper (DVR), or 6 tuners if you opt into to getting 2 Hoppers. So if you have a big family with a lot of continued on page 39
Make sure to take close-up photos and check to be sure they’re clear and readable. Password protect these files just in case. Here’s a list of seven important documents to include:
2. Prescription Medication: Save a picture of each pharmacy bottle showing the name and dosage of your medication. 3. Travel Reservations: If you don’t have your e-document emails saved to your phone, keep a photo of your airline e-ticket, hotel reservation and cruise line boarding pass. 4. Insurance Policy: Save a picture of the front page of your travel insurance policy, showing the name of the insured, the policy number and the insurance company’s contact phone number. 5. Valuables: If you’re travelling with valuable items like jewelry, camera equipment or a laptop computer, store photos of them on your Smartphone. If any of these items are available for sale at your destination, you should include photos of receipts in the event you’re questioned by local customs officials when you return home. 6. Parking Lot: This isn’t a document, but there’s nothing worse than getting home from vacation and forgetting where the car is parked! If you’ve parked at the airport or continued on page 39 www.footprintspublishing.com 31
ESTATE PLANNING WATCH OUT For The Ice For Blended Families
by Debra Robinson Many couples would like to provide for their spouse in their wills, but also make sure their respective children from a previous marriage receive an inheritance. They worry that if everything is left to the surviving spouse, then the survivor’s children will receive it all at the second death. It’s a very valid concern, but fortunately, there are ways to deal with it.
Debra Robinson is an attorney at Robinson & Miller, P.C. Attorneys at Law. She can be reached at (770) 817-4999 or by emailing drobinson@robinsonmiller.com. www.robinsonmiller.com
One good solution is to create a trust, whether during lifetime or in a will. The trust can take care of the surviving spouse by distributing the income and even invading the principal if necessary for the survivor’s health and support; but at the survivor’s death, the trust will distribute the remaining assets according to the trust creator’s plan. For example, if the husband has two children from a prior marriage, and the wife also has two children from a prior marriage, they could create a joint revocable trust that would provide for the survivor of them, but at the second death, divide the assets equally among the four children. Or if the wife brought significantly more assets to the marriage than the husband, it could provide that the assets would be divided 70% to her children and 30% to his. If the couple is living in a home that was owned by the husband before the marriage, another option would be for him to provide in his will that the wife has the right to live in the house for her lifetime, but at her death, or if she remarries or moves out, ownership passes to his children. Under Georgia law, if a married person with children dies without a will, the estate is divided equally among the surviving spouse and the children, with the surviving spouse receiving a minimum one-third share. This could have positive or negative effects on a blended family. For example, a woman who married a man with two children from a prior marriage might find herself widowed and living in a house now owned two-thirds by her stepchildren. If a man with children married a woman who was financially well off and had no children of her own, and he failed to execute continued on page 39 32 My Alpharetta | august 2012
by Dan Jape
One of the biggest issues we encounter in the cooling repair business is the formation of ice on an air conditioning system. When homeowners see ice on their unit, they often turn it off until the ice they see is melted and then they turn the Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable unit back on instead of calling Heating and Air. You may contact him for help. This is the worst at (770) 594-9096 or visit him online mistake they could make and it at www.reliableair.com. could end up destroying their outdoor unit in the process. The outdoor compressor needs to have the correct amount of air moving across the indoor coil and if it is not, you need to turn it off and keep it off until having the system repaired. The unit often times cools again if it is turned back on, then freezes again — and this is very hard on the compressor.
There are a couple of reasons why ice forms on a residential air conditioner. One is poor airflow across the indoor evaporator coil and the other is low refrigerant charge. The lack of airflow can simply be a dirty air filter blocking the proper amount of air from moving across the coil. This can also be caused by a dirty blower wheel, packed with dust and debris, which will restrict airflow and cause a freezing. Another very common problem we encounter is an improper amount of intake or return ducts, which do not allow enough air to reach the indoor coil, thus causing a freezing up issue. When the indoor blower motor or fan fails, this breakdown will cause instant icing and the unit needs to be shut off. People may still feel some cool air through the vents from the block of ice melting in the unit, but continued operation of a unit in this condition will cause damage to the compressor. The ice one sees is only the “tip of the iceberg,” so to speak. The larger piece of ice is located in the duct work of a unit and is formed on the indoor cooling coil. The ice forms a sheet over this coil and blocks airflow, which causes the unit to ice even quicker and before long a block of ice 1 foot high and wide can be on the cooling coil. One symptom of this problem is reduced airflow to your rooms. There are few other problems that can so severely reduce airflow, so if this condition happens to you, turn your system off and look for possible ice. Be very careful with the ice melting, as the melting water will run down on the furnace and can harm the electronic controls. Try to soak it up with continued on page 39
11605 Haynes Bridge Rd,
(770) 993-8806
Ste. 100, Alpharetta
www.gnfcc.com
The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Means Business! Its mission is to be the catalyst for economic development, business growth, and quality of life in North Fulton.
Harry Rucker Jr. Volunteer of the Year
Jennifer Hall, SunTrust Bank, has been named GNFCC’s Harry Rucker Jr., Volunteer of the Year. Jennifer Hall with GNFCC president Brandon Beach
Express Oil Change 830 N. Main Street, Alpharetta
Upcoming GNFCC Events AUGUST 28 @ 7:30 A.M. Eggs & Enterprise Breakfast Alpharetta Marriott 5750 Windward Parkway Keynote speaker: Dan Cathy, president and Chief operating officer, Chick-fil-A. Register online at www.GNFCC.com or call (678) 397-9556.
Just 10 USD.com Held at the GNFCC offices in Alpharetta
Male Sport Coach of the Year XL212, in partnership with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, honored the 2011 – 2012 Male Sport Coach of the Year at a recent GNFCC E & E Breakfast with NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo keynote speaker. Billy Nicholson of John’s Creek High School received the honor after the Gladiator’s stellar baseball season. Coach Nicholson was selected for his accomplishments with his team as well as his dedication to both his school and his community.
OCTOBER 1 The GNFCC’s Annual Golf Classic Country Club of the South, Johns Creek Presented by Northside Hospital, mark your calendar now and plan to attend this great event! Foursomes and sponsorship opportunities still available! Contact Debbie Ryals at (678) 397-0556 for more details.
Left to right: XL212 partner Mike Haynes, GNFCC president Brandon Beach, NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo, Male Sport Coach of the Year Billy Nicholson, and XL212 president Eric Douglas. www.footprintspublishing.com 33
RELIGIOUS SERVICES Baptist Bethany Baptist Church 2065 Bethany Road, (770) 475-6748
Boiling Springs Primitive Baptist Church 1200 Birmingham Road, (404) 444-6490 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.boilingspringspbc.org
Bridgeway Church
First Baptist Church of Alpharetta 44 Academy Street, (770) 475-6556 www.fbca.com
Hopewell Baptist Church 15730 Hopewell Road, 770-442-0793
Johns Creek Baptist Church 7500 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 623-8203 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.jcbc.org
4755 Kimball Bridge Road,(770) 751-1972 Sunday Service: 9:30 a.m. www.bridgeway.net
Providence Baptist Church
Clear Springs Baptist Church
1125 Alpha Drive, (770) 456-5881 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.visionbaptist.com
11575 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 475-9223 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.csbcga.com
Clear Springs Missionary Baptist Church 2725 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 664-6863
County Line Baptist Church 430 Strickland Road, (770) 475-9429
Crabapple First Baptist 12760 Birmingham Highway, (770) 475-6111 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.crabapplefbc.org
Cross Plains Baptist Church 6500 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 475-1210
34 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
20075 Providence Road, (770) 475-3627
Alpharetta First Ward 500 Norcross Street, (770) 640-7357
Milton Ward 500 Norcross Street, (770) 587-0550 Sunday Service: 11 a.m.
Episcopal
Vision Baptist Church
Catholic Saint Brigid Catholic Church
St. Aidans Episcopal Church 13560 Cogburn Road, (770) 521-0207 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. www.staidans.org
Jewish
3400 Old Alabama Road, (678) 393-0060 Sunday Services: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 5 p.m (Life Teen) www.saintbrigid.org
Chabad of Alpharetta Jewish Center
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church
Congregation Gesher L’Torah
535 Rucker Road, (770) 475-4501 Sunday Services: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m. (En Español) 5 p.m (Life Teen) www.sta.org
10180 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 410-9000 Sunday Services: 9:45 & 10:30 a.m. www.chabadnf.org
4320 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 777-4009 www.gltorah.org
Lutheran Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church 4655 Webb Bridge Road, (770) 475-0640 Sunday Services: 8:15, 9:30 & 10:55 a.m. www.cts.org
Lord of Life Lutheran Church ELCA
Spirit of God Christian Church 11940 Alpharetta Highway, (770) 777-6889 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.spiritofgodcc.org
Stonecreek Church 13540 Highway 9 North, (770) 754-7900 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.stonecreekchurch.org
5390 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 740-1279 Sunday Services: 8:30, 11:00 a.m. Sunday school for all ages at 9:45 a.m. www.lord-life.org
Presbyterian
Messiah Lutheran Church - WELS
Alpharetta Presbyterian
4765 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 751-9357 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.messiahlutheran.ws
180 Academy Street, (770) 751-0033 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. www.alpharettapres.com
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church ELCA 10250 Haynes Bridge Road, (770) 475-4250 Sunday Services: 9:15 (Tradtional) & 10:45 a.m. (Modern) www.poplcalpharetta.org
The River Church 501 S. Main Street, Suite 101, (678) 860-0971 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.wadeintheriver.org
Methodist Alpharetta First United Methodist Church 69 North Main Street, (770) 475-5576 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. www.afumc.org
Birmingham United Methodist 15560 Birmingham Highway, (678) 942-1600 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.birminghamumc.org
Other Churches Abundant Life Community Church 625-A Sims Industrial Boulevard, (678) 319-9700 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.livingabundantly.net
Alpharetta Church of God 1460 Mid Broadwell Road, (770) 475-5788 Sunday Service: 10:45 a.m. www.alpharettachurchofgod.com
Baha’i Faith of Alpharetta 10690 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 442-1332
C3 Church 13695 Highway 9 North, (678) 696-1401 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.thec3church.com
Calvary Chapel 200 James Road, (770) 442-8167 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.calvaryalpharetta.com
Community of Christ 3315 Francis Road, (770) 521-1112 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. www.cofchrist.org
Crabapple Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses 910 Mayfield Road, (678) 339-0349
The Hanuman Mandir 390 Cumming Street, Suite 1, (770) 475-7701 www.thehanuman.org
Inner Quest 12830 New Providence Road, (770) 521-2875 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.innerquestchurch.org
Islamic Center of North Fulton 1265 Rucker Road, (678) 297-0019 www.alpharettamasjid.com
Jehovah’s Witnesses 9400 Brumbelow Road, (770) 594-9400
Morning Star Chapel 2780 Bethany Bend, (678) 319-0041 www.morningstarchapel.org
Reach One Church Meets at Mill Springs Academy 13660 New Providence Rd., (770) 609-7941 Sunday Service: 10:45 a.m. www.reachonechurch.org
Restoration Church of God 410 Rucker Road, (770) 751-9697 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.restorationchurchna.org
Midway United Methodist Church 5025 Highway 9 N, (770) 475-5230 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:45 a.m. www.midwayumc.org
St. James United Methodist 3000 Webb Bridge Road, (678) 762-1543 Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m. www.stjamesumc.org
Non-Denominational Keepin’ It Real “Lighthouse”, Inc. 61 Old Canton Street, (770) 360-5601 www.keepinitreallighthouse.com
Kingdom Ambassadors Intl. Worship Center Wills Recreation Center 11925 Wills Road, (770) 853-7231 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.crystalstallings.org
The Lighthouse Church 18271 Union Hill Road, (770) 664-3644
North Point Community Church 4350 Northpoint Parkway, (770) 290-5600 Sunday Services: 9, 11 & 12:45 a.m. www.northpoint.org
www.footprintspublishing.com 35
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
Business Organizations
BNI-Alpharetta Accelerators Chapter Contact: Jim Somers, (770) 753-2032 Website: www.bniatlanta.com
National Association of Women Business Owners Contact: (678) 539-8090 Website: www.nawboatlanta.org
The North Fulton Bar Association Contact: Charles Gabriel, (678) 735-5900 Website: www.northfultonbar.com
North Fulton Community Charities
North Fulton Republican Women’s Club
Contact: (770) 640-0399 Website: www.nfcchelp.org
Contact: Suzi Voyles, (404) 851-9704 svgagop08@gmail.com
North Fulton Senior Services Contact: (770) 993-1906 Website: www.ssnorthfulton.org
Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation, Inc Contact: Jacqueline Holland, 678-242-0471 info@ryanleehollandfoundation.com Website: www.ryanleehollandfoundation.com
United Way of Atlanta Contact:
Civic Organizations
Contact: Ben Staten, (404) 323-0049 Website: www.ga400rainmakers.com
Contact:
Rosan Hall, (770) 335-6013
Northside Business Network Group Contact:
Diane Williford, (770) 594-2200
Powercore Contact: Jeremy Faulkner, (404) 816-3377 Website: www.powercore.net
Alpharetta American Legion, Auxiliary Unit 201 Contact:
(770) 475-9023
Contact:
Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142
Alpharetta Arts Guild Contact: Danita Grant, (678) 994-5630 Website: www.alphaartsguild.com
Contact: Nancy Hetsko, (678) 361-5198 Website: www.alpharettadbc.org
Alpharetta Camera Club Contact:
Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142
Alpharetta City Band Contact: Don Nahser, (770) 475-9684
Alpharetta Junior Women’s Club Contact: Debora, (678) 218-5732 Website: www.ajwc.net
Alpharetta Golden Age Book Club
Alpharetta Optimist Club
Alpharetta/Roswell Newcomers Club
Contact:
Charitable Organizations
Alpharetta Adult Activity Center Book Club
Alpharetta Bridge Club
GA 400 Rainmakers
North Metro Women’s Connection
(770) 614-1000
Recreation & Hobbies
Greg Cabrera, (770) 752-8122
Alpharetta Lions Club Contact:
Garner Andrews, (770) 475-9344
Contact:
Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142
Contact: (678) 318-1442 Website: www.arnewcomers.org
Alpharetta Singles movie club Contact:
(770) 662-0916
Alpharetta Clean and Beautiful
Alpharetta Roswell Newcomers Club
Contact:
Contact: Barb Hill, (678) 318-1442
Alpharetta Walkie Talkies
American Association of University Women North Fulton Branch
AlphaFretters Dulcimer Group
(678) 297-6200
Basset Hound Rescue of Georgia Contact:
(770) 499-1164
Contact:
Lewis Lay, (678) 267-6142
Contact:
Child Development Association
Contact: karenleasman@aol.com Website: www.aauwnorthfultonga.wordpress.com
Contact: (770) 992-4339 Website: www.cdakids.org
Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta
Contact: John Coles, (770) 962-5888 Website: www.stampclubs.com
Children’s Restoration Network Contact:
(770) 649-7117
Companion Animal Connection Contact: (678) 493-9847 Website: www.cacadopt.petfinder.com
The Drake Closet Contact: (678) 682-3551 thedrakecloset@thedrakehouse.org Website: www.thedrakehouse.org
Foster Care Support Foundation Contact: Rachel Ewald, (770) 641-9591 Sharon Franklin, (404) 729-3374 E-mail: rachel@fostercares.org Website: www.fostercares.org
Friends of the Alpharetta Library Contact: Main: (678) 310-GRRA (4772) Intake EMRG.: (678)-964-GRRA (4772) E-mail: grra@grra.com Website: www.fotal.org
Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta Contact: (770) 740-2425 E-mail: fotal-forum@yahoogroups.com Website: www.grra.com
Homestretch Contact:
(770) 642- 9185
36 My Alpharetta | august 2012
Website: gsgatl.org
Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties, Inc. Contact: Crystal D Weitzel, (770) 476-3090 Website: www.jlgnf.org
North Fulton Jaycees Contact:
Wendell Whitefield, (404) 786-2665
North Fulton Optimist Club Contact: Glenn Rudh, (404) 375-7033 grudh@bellsouth.net
Rotary Club of North Fulton Contact: Joyce Abernathy, (770) 475-0656 Website: www.northfultonrotary.org
VFW Post 12002 Website: www.12002.net
Political Organizations
Dell Makuch, (770) 667-0620
Atlanta Stamp Collectors
Chattahoochee Celtic Pipes & Drums Contact: Rory Howe, (770) 926-6898 or pipemajor@ccpipesanddrums.com
Dudes ‘n Darlins Square Dance Club of Alpharetta Contact: 770-751-7210, (770) 361-1237 Website: www.dudesndarlins.com
The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra Contact:
(770) 623-8623
Milton Garden Club Contact: Faye Troka, (770) 781-4634, dtroka@earthlink.net Website: gardening.meetup.com/172
Multisport Explosion Women’s Only Triathlon Team Contact: Jennifer Lesser, jless@comcast.net Website: multisportexplosionyouthtriathlonteam.com
Multisport Explosion Youth Triathlon Team Chattahoochee Republican Women’s Club Contact:
Marjean Birt, sandrabjohnson@gmail.com
North Fulton Democrats Contact:
Anne, (404) 303-9142, ext. 2
Contact: Lisa Marshall, (404) 308-6656 klacmarshall@comcast.net Website: multisportexplosionyouthtriathlonteam.com
North Fulton Amateur Radio League Contact:
Jim Stafford, W4Q0, (770) 993-9500
North Fulton Music Teachers Association
Brain Injury and Stroke Group
Contact: Serene Lee, (404) 786-8932 Website: http://nfmta.com/
Contact:
Newtown Recreation Contact:
(770) 751-2650
Care Partner Support Group Contact:
Dawn Reed, (678) 777-7241
(678) 297-2662
Songs of Atlanta Chorus
Diabetes Support Group Contact:
Joe Mengoni, (770) 889-7577
Contact: (770) 977-4031
Southern Winds Concert Band Contact: George Cekis, (404) 295-5093 gvcekis@comcast.net
Stars Soccer Club — Men’s League
Emotions Anonymous (EA) Contact:
Suzanne, (404) 307-1735
Foster Care Support Group Contact: Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767
Contact: (678) 366-9008 Website: www.StarsSoccerClub.com
MOMS Club of Alpharetta-West
Writers Network
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
Contact:
Bobby Christmas, (770) 924-0528
Support Organizations Alcoholics Anonymous Contact:
Barb G., (770) 686-3082
Anorexia Nervousa and Associated Eating Disorders — ANA Contact:
Kim, (404) 307-5442
Contact: alpharettawestmomsclub@gmail.com
Contact:
Lee H., (678) 576-4838
National Alliance on Mental Illness — NAMI Contact: Jerry Bishop, (678) 446-5080 bishopjerryo@bellsouth.net
Overeaters Anonymous Contact:
Bill, (770) -992-6481
Parkinson’s Support Group Contact:
Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767
SA
Atlanta Harm Reduction Center
Contact:
Contact: (404) 817-9994 Website: www.atlantaharmreduction.org
S-Anon Contact:
(770) 993-7253
(770) 993-7253
Bereavement Support Group Contact:
Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767
www.footprintspublishing.com 37
ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS
United States Government
President Barack Obama (D)
(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R)
(202) 224-3521 GA: (770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
Senate Russell Courtyard-2 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov
Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6
P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 Website: http://tom.house.gov
Rep. Rob Woodall (R), District 7 90 North Street, Suite 360 Canton, GA 30114-2724 Website: www.woodall.house.gov
(202) 225-4501 GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570 (202) 225-4272 GA: (770) 232-3005 fax: (770) 232-2909
(202) 225-5211 GA: (770) 535-2592 fax: (202) 225-8272
State Government
Governor Nathan Deal (R)
(404) 656-1776 fax: (404) 657-7332
(404) 613-4433
Juvenile Court: Chief Judge Sanford Jones
(770) 612-4401
Court of Clerks: Cathelene Robinson
(404) 730-5300
(770) 613-4070
Board of Commissioners 141 Pryor St. S.W. Atlanta, GA 30303 www.fultoncountyga.gov
(678) 493-6000 fax: (678) 493-6013
John H. Eaves (D-1)
e-mail: john.eaves@fultoncountyga.gov
Robb Pitts (D-2)
(404) 612-8206
(404) 612-8210
e-mail: robb.pitts@fultoncountyga.gov
Liz Hausmann (D-3)
(404) 612-8213
Tom Lowe (D-4)
(404) 612-8218
e-mail: liz.hausmann@fultoncountyga.gov e-mail: tom.lowe@fultoncountyga.gov
(404) 612-8222
Joan P. Garner (D-6)
(404) 656-0048 fax: (404) 651-6768
(404) 612-8226
e-mail: district6@fultoncountyga.gov
(404) 612-8230
e-mail: william.edwards@fultoncountyga.gov
Board of Education
State Senator John Albers (R) (D-56)
local: (678) 667-3656 business: (404) 463-8055 fax: (404) 656-6484
511 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: info@senatoralbers.com
State Rep. Jan Jones (R) (D-46)
(404) 656-5072 fax: (404) 657-0498
340 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: jan.jones@house.ga.gov
Linda Schultz (D-1)
schultzl@fultonschools.org
Katie Reeves (D-2)
reevesk@fultonschools.org
Linda McCain (D-5)
mccainl@fultonschools.org
Julia Bernath (D-7)
bernathj@fultonschools.org
Other
State Rep. Chuck Martin (R) (D-47)
417 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: chuck.martin@house.ga.gov
State Rep. Harry Geisinger (R) (D-48)
(404) 656-5064 fax: (404) 463-2249
(404) 656-0254 fax: (770) 594-1510
State Rep. Wendell Willard (R) (D-49)
Fulton County Schools Superintendent:
State Rep. Lynne Riley (R) (D-50)
(404) 656-5125 fax: (404) 481-7111
(404) 656-0188
401 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: lynne.riley@house.ga.gov
Fulton County Medical Examiner: Randy Hanzlick, MD
(404) 656-5912
(404) 730-4400 fax: (404) 730-4405
Fulton County Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Theodore Jackson (404) 612-5100 185 Central Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 Website: www.fultonsheriff.org
Fulton County Tax Commissioner: Arthur E. Ferdinand
(404) 730-4000
141 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
City of Alpharetta
(404) 768-3600
Robert M. Avossa, Ed.D. 786 Cleveland Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 e-mail: superintendent@fultonschools.org Website: www.fultonschools.org
430 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30312 e-mail: loec@fultonschools.org
132 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: wendell.willard@house.ga.gov
38 My Alpharetta | august 2012
(404) 613-4497
William Edwards (D-7)
421-F State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: david.shafer@senate.ga.gov
220 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: tom.rice@house.ga.gov
State Court: Chief Judge A.L. Thompson Magistrate Court: Chief Judge Stephanie Davis Probate Court: Judge Pinkle T. Toomer
e-mail: emma.darnell@fultoncountyga.gov
State Senator David Shafer (R) (D-48)
State Rep. Tom Rice (R) (D-51)
(404) 730-4991
Emma I. Darnell (D-5)
203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Website: www.gov.ga.gov.com
601 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: harry.geisinger@house.ga.gov
Superior Court: Chief Judge Doris L. Downs
(202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999 fax: (770) 661-0768
Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 90 North Street, Suite 360 Canton, GA 30114-2724 Website: www.linder.house.gov
Courts
City of Milton
David Belle Isle dbelleisle@alpharetta.ga.gov Mayor Joe Lockwood joe.lockwood@cityofmiltonga.us
(678) 297-6020
(678) 242-2484
Dish VS. DirecTV 2012
continued from page 31
Power of Prayer
continued from page 30
people watching TV at the same time, there is the possibility of kicking someone off of what they’re watching. But, their Internet based On-Demand system is great, since they bought Blockbuster and now offer the Blockbuster service inside their receivers, and someone can use this if the tuners are all taken.
“Tell me,” the first man said, “what did he pray for that I should owe him anything?”
All in all, both companies have very entertaining TV systems, and both offer a better price than Comcast. Best thing is that you can call me, the local Dish And DirecTV guy, to help you make your mind up. Then, we’ll come install it and always be there for future questions or issues!
How often our prayers are selfish in nature, when our most powerful ones are for others. Alan Redpath has written, “Before we can pray, ‘Thy Kingdom come,’ we must be willing to pray, ‘my kingdom go.’”
Dental X-reys and Radiation
continued from page 27
about in the most recent 10 years? The study might have been more credible had actual dental records been used, but they were not. The data was obtained strictly from the memories of those interviewed. Unexplainably, the study failed to identify any relationship between patients who reported more panoramic films (3 times more radiation) or full mouth surveys (21 times more radiation) and the presence of brain tumors. Claiming a relationship between the lower radiation bitewings and brain tumors but no similar finding for the higher radiation films makes absolutely no biological sense.” A bitewing digital x-ray series delivers a relatively small dose of radiation of .04 MilliGrays. For comparison, the average person is exposed to 3.1 MilliGrays of cosmic background radiation simply by living in the United States for one year. A single bitewing x-ray is the equivalent of approximately one day worth of background radiation and a panoramic x-ray is equivalent to three days worth of background radiation. X-rays remain a crucial diagnostic tool in today’s dental practice. They are essential to detecting the early onset of decay while it is easily treatable without a tooth extraction. As well, the information helps dentists diagnose infection, bone loss, and tumors which, undiagnosed, would have serious consequences.
Store Documents
continued from page 31
“He prayed,” the Voice answered, “that all YOUR prayers would be answered.”
Estate Planning
continued from page 32
a will that expressed his desires, his widow, who didn’t need an inheritance, would receive one-third of his assets and his children would divide the other two-thirds. Proper estate planning is essential for everyone, but doubly so for blended families. Many couples don’t want to discuss it, because there may be sensitive issues involved; but failing to have that discussion often causes family conflict and unintended results when someone dies. Talking to an estate planning lawyer to create a plan that works for your family is a responsibility that should never be overlooked.
Watch Out For The Ice
continued from page 32
towels to keep it from running down in the furnace and drain pan as it can flood your ceiling if your unit is in the attic. Most of the icing problems we encounter are not due to blower or filter problems, but rather caused by low refrigerant charge. When a unit is low on refrigerant, before it stops cooling altogether, it will reach a state where ice forms on the coils and it is not something a homeowner can repair. Be sure and turn off your unit 5 or 6 hours to thaw before your service tech arrives, because they will not be able to properly repair a frozen air conditioner and they will have to come back another time, which will only add to the frustration of being hot with no cooling.
cruise port, take a picture of the locator sign near your car. 7. My business Card: so you’re sure to have my contact info in the event you have questions or need assistance with anything. Smartphones are truly versatile devices with many uses above and beyond making phone calls and sending text messages. Keeping copies of travel documents on your Smartphone will definitely provide you with some added peace of mind while you’re travelling.
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40 My Alpharetta | august 2012
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