12/11 West Canton by Footprints Publishing

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37– 40 Publisher & Co-Owner Brian Meek Executive Editor & Co-Owner Michelle Meek

2011 Holiday Guide

editorial

Editor Cherryl Greenman Social Media Delaney Young

art

Graphic Designer Candice Williams Graphic Designer Tiffany Atwood

sales

Market Director Janet Ponichtera Advertising Design Ashley George

30 34 36 41

DECemBER 2011

Cherokee High School Senior Night Class of 2012

Holiday Hope Helping your neighbors in need

Photographers Jack Tuszynski, Wendell Webb Writers Michael Buckner, Susan Cannizzaro, Dr. Charles Cooley, Jyl Craven, Dr. Edward J. Furey, Lisa Graham, Lisa Griswold, Dr. Scott Harden, Rep. Calvin Hill, Rev. Norman Hunt, Dan Jape, Dr. Mike Litrel, Carole May, Megan McGinnis, Dr. LaCretia Munroe, Drs. Simone & Greg Nutt, Janet Read, Sen. Chip Rogers, Suzanne Taylor, Amy Turcotte, Dr. Monika Yadav

Volume 1 | Issue 2

Holiday Programs & Services Religious services, musical programs and more

Believe A real life Santa story Holiday Handbook

In Every Issue

10 Celebrations 14 CalendaR 20 Library 22 chamber of commerce 46 Dr. Litrel

Directory Listings 64 Local Officials 66 Clubs 67 Community Info 68 Churches 2

contributors

My West Canton | december 2011

Footprints Publishing, LLC 113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 204 Canton, GA 30115 tel. (770) 720-7497 fax. (770) 720-1329 editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com admanager@mywestcantonmonthly.com www.mywestcantonmonthly.com My West Canton 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 West Canton area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found. My West Canton 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 West Canton 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.

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WEst Canton Community — Home

by Michelle Meek, editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com

Sixes Tavern Bar & Grille is now open at 3568 Sixes Road, Canton. Offering an extensive menu including wings, salads, sandwiches, steaks, crabcakes and more. Sixes Tavern is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Check out their website and facebook page for upcoming bands and entertainment. For more information, please call (770) 345-2939 or visit www.sixes-tavern.com. Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing 24hour co-ed fitness franchise, is pleased to announce the opening of their new Sixes Road location. With 24/7 access, Anytime Fitness offers convenient and affordable exercise. The new Canton club is located at 3422 Sixes Road, Canton. For more information, please visit www.anytimefitness.com. Modern Woodmen of America, a fraternal financial organization. Its main purpose is helping plan for financial security through insurances, investments and retirement products. The organization is open for business in West Canton. To learn more about planning for your financial security, contact, Doc Satcher, (770) 634-1427, David.Satcher@mwarep.org, or visit the website at www.modern-woodmen.org. The Fork and Tavern recently opened in historic downtown Canton. With daily specials and activities such as Wine Down Wednesdays, team trivia on Thursdays and Prime Rib dinners on Saturdays; stop in for lunch or dinner and see what all of the excitement is about. The Fork and Tavern is located at 190 East Main St., Canton. Call or visit their website for more information. (678) 880-1714, www.forkandtavern.com Bethesda Community Clinic is now open at 107 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 100, Canton. Offering low cost and free medical services, please call or visit their website for more information. (678) 880-6954, www.bethesdacommunityclinic.org. Volunteers are also needed. Chattahoochee Technical College recently announced that its Canton Campus will be the home to its newest program of study, Clinical Laboratory Technology. The associate degree program will host its first class of students in the fall of 2012. Graduation from this program allows students to take a national certification examination which is necessary for clinical employment. The program is designed to prepare students to work in hospitals, blood banks, physician offices, research centers and other laboratory settings. A maximum of 12 students will be selected for the program through a competitive admissions process. Information sessions will be held this spring for those interested in the program. The deadline for applications is in May 2012. For

My West Canton | december 2011

more information on this and other programs at Chattahoochee Technical College, visit www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu or call (770) 528-4545. Studio 101 will host an Open House on Wednesday, December 7 from 4 — 8 p.m. Their new space is located at 101 Emma Lane at the corner of Highway 92 in Woodstock. They offer studios for rent; open studio space; workshop, classroom, and gallery spaces co-op shop. Take advantage of its pre-construction prices! For more information, please email reginahines@windstream.net. Keep an eye out for Eye On U Bands, developed by two Woodstock moms, Abby Port and Renee McDonald. Within five months they took an idea, sparked by one of their children, and had Eye On U Bands in 15 states! These moms created a new type of friendship band that encourages positive social interaction, while looking cool at the same time. Eye On U Bands can be purchased at many local retailers. For a complete list, and more information about Eye On U Bands, please go to www. eyeonubands.com. Share an Eye On U Band with a friend and tell them, I’ve got my eye on U! Old Hickory House recently opened in Canton. Located at 135 Reinhardt College Parkway, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner serving Southern favorites and BBQ. Please call (770) 704-0074 for more information. Georgia Farm Bureau to Award Agriculture Scholarships Georgia Farm Bureau will award a total of $14,250 in scholarships to ten high school seniors who plan to pursue a college degree in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, or a related field, William Grizzle, Cherokee County Farm Bureau president, recently announced. The top three students will each receive a scholarship of $3,000 divided between their first two years of college. The remaining seven students will each receive a one-time $750 scholarship. Applicants must plan to enter a unit of the University System of Georgia or Berry College during the 2012-2013 academic year to pursue an undergraduate degree in agricultural and environmental sciences, family and consumer sciences or a related agricultural field. All applications must be submitted by Friday, February 24, 2012. Please contact the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office at (770) 479-1481 ext. 0 for more information about the scholarship program or to obtain an application. You may also download a copy of the application by visiting http:// www.gfb.org and selecting GFB Programs and then selecting Ag in the Classroom. The scholarship recipients will be announced in May 2012. The scholarships will be distributed in the summer of 2012 after the recipients provide confirmation of their enrollment in a college/university and their major area of study.

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December

5th

COMMUNITY

New Study Beginning at WCC

Woodstock Christian Church (WCC) will be reading and studying through the Bible in 2012 by following a program called “The Story.” The Story is God’s story, exploring from cover to cover through the year by reading, preaching and studying it as a group. A reading schedule is available at no cost and there are books available for purchase if you desire. Woodstock Christian Church is located at 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock. You can learn more about the study on their website, www.woodstockchristian.org. The study will begin on January 8, 2012, continuing weekly on Sundays at 9 or at 10:30 a.m.

Moose Lodge Presents Public Safety Awards

The Canton Moose Lodge paid tribute to local fire and emergency service personnel during their annual Public Safety Awards Banquet that was held recently at the Canton Moose Family Center. After a delicious meal, Cherokee County Chief Deputy, L. V. West, Chief Prather and Tim Carr introduced Dee Morris as the evening’s guest speaker. After the speech, awards were given to the following honorees with Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services: Firefighter of the Year – Lt. Kevin Lanier; Volunteer Firefighter of the Year – Rebecca Strobl; Special Teams Member of the Year – Tim Carr; Support Services Member of the Year – Sharon Young; Fire Explorer of the Year – Corey Deal.

given by the League to needy children in Cherokee County. The money is used by the nonprofit organization to fill individual requests such as a student who needs eyeglasses or a family that needs financial assistance with a heating bill; to provide college scholarships for a deserving graduating senior from each county high school; and to make financial grants for local nonprofit organizations and programs that aid children. For more information, please see the website at www.serviceleague.net.

Cherokee Girl Scouts Attend S.T.E.M. Expo

At the first annual Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta “Pure Genius” S.T.E.M. Expo, an experiential emersion into Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (S.T.E.M.) via interactive exhibits, entertainment, workshops and other activities, approximately 1,500 attendees, including 1,000 girls from all over greater Atlanta and their families. Attendees enjoyed fun filled activities around robotics, aerospace engineering, forensic science and more. Guests including Girl Scout Troop 2919 of Cherokee County (pictured) enjoyed demonstrations and additional activities that motivated participation through several “Girl Challenges.”

Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary Celebrates 50 Years

Riverfest Continues its Tradition

Riverfest Chairwoman Amy Graham, left, presents a symbolic check to Service League of Cherokee County President Joanne Waver. 6

My West Canton | december 2011

The Service League of Cherokee County raised more than $60,000 for local children in need this year through its signature fundraiser, the Riverfest arts and crafts festival. The festival is held every year during the last weekend of September at Boling Park in Canton, and all proceeds are

In October 1961, before a hospital was even built in Cherokee County, seven members of the community gathered together to write the bylaws of the first organized Auxiliary of R.T. Jones Memorial Hospital in Canton. This year, the Auxiliary, more on now the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary, page 8 celebrates its 50th anniversary. Prior to the first

Photo courtesy of Donna Permell

r Deadline fo News: mmunity

Januar y Co

continued from page

COMMUNITY

admission of patients to the hospital in April 1962, the 30 charter members of the Auxiliary, under the direction of the supervisor of nurses, made patient beds, patient requisitions and many other duties as requested. Today, the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary assists the hospital with a tremendous amount of volunteer hours and financial assistance. Annually, the group’s 70 active members volunteer more than 15,000 hours of service, adding a special caring touch as they interact with patients and families throughout the hospital. To learn more about volunteering at Northside Hospital-Cherokee, call (770) 720-5282 or visit www.northside.com and click on the “Volunteer” link.

Local Cub Scouts Work to Scare Off Hunger

Cub Scout Pack 37 collected canned food for MUST Ministries as part of their Halloween “Hunger Is Scary” project.

Anytime Fitness Announces its Grand Opening in the Sixes Community

Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing 24-hour co-ed fitness franchise, is pleased to announce it will open for business in the month of December. With 24/7 access, Anytime Fitness offers convenient and affordable exercise. At Anytime Fitness, members can workout any time of the day or night, every day of the year. They use a security-access key to enter the club, even when it is not staffed. Once inside, members have full use of state-of-the-art strength training and cardiovascular equipment. Anytime Fitness also offers 24-hour tanning and membership reciprocity among its clubs. The owners of Anytime Fitness, Kyle Campbell and Brennan Archer, are very enthusiastic about opening this new club. “The convenience and affordability of Anytime Fitness can’t be beat,” said Archer. “We are excited to be in the Sixes area and it’s our goal to become an active member of the community,” continued Campbell. For membership information, stop by their new location at 3422 Sixes Road, Canton or visit www.anytimefitness.com. 8

My West Canton | december 2011

Architecture Studio Wins Award for Design of Woodstock Community Church

The Architecture Studio of Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh & Associates, (TSW), an Atlanta-based full-service planning, architecture and landscape architecture firm (www.tsw-design.com), has won a national Solomon Award for its design of the new Woodstock Community Church. (www.wcchurch.org). The awards are presented by Church Production Magazine and Worship Facilities Magazine. The final design incorporates three individual structures: a 300-seat sanctuary, a fellowship hall which accommodates weekly dining and basketball events and an educational wing designed for a future second floor expansion. A central gathering space and two exterior courtyards link the three structures. “We are now blessed with a building tailored to our ministry,” said Woodstock Community Church minister Greg Michael. “The joy of knowing Christ and making Him known has been enhanced and we are grateful for that.”

Good Shepherd Hosts Biblical Scholar

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Woodstock is excited to host Dr. Diane Jacobson on Sunday, December 4 for a conversation about the Biblical book of Ruth. As part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s (ELCA’s) Book of Faith Initiative and to help promote the Lutheran Theological Center in Atlanta (LTCA), the ELCA Southeastern Synod and LTCA are cosponsoring Dr. Jacobson’s visit. She will preach at all three worship services at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and lead a faith community exploration of the book of Ruth beginning at 3 p.m. Dr. Jacobson is currently the ELCA Book of Faith Director and is a Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Luther Seminary. All are welcome to attend worship services or the community discussion. For more information, please contact the church office at (770) 924-7286. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is located at 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock.

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WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTO IN OUR CELEBRATION SECTION? Birthday, Anniversary & Wedding Announcements are Free!

Babies, Birthdays and Anniversaries

Katie Savell

Chris Merrell

My West Canton Monthly 113 Mountain Brook Dr., Suite 204, Canton, GA 30115 or art@mywestcantonmonthly.com Deadline is December 10th for the January Issue!

Matthew Bravo

Age 8 on December 10 Happy Birthday Sweet Katie! Love, Mommy & Ryan

Age 40 on December 14 Happy Birthday! We love you! Donna, Emily, Sidney & Sophie

Age 16 on December 13 Look who is getting a drivers license! Happy Birthday! We love you! Son of Jana & Nick Bravo Brother of Sarah

Caleb R. Dixon

Kyndal Glee Bridges

Carys Anne Broadnax

Age 5 on November 18 Happy Birthday Little Man! We love you! Mommy, Daddy, Isabelle & Maddison

Age 5 on December 17 Happy Birthday Squirrel! We love you!! Mommy, Daddy & Big Sis Kailyn

Lori Jo Greenman & Blake Duncan Gallagher Married on September 10, 2011 in Cancun, Mexico Congratulations!

10 My West Canton | december 2011

Age 2 on December 7 Happy Birthday Sweet Baby! XOXO Daughter of Amber & Ahmad Broadnax Little Sister of Lincoln

Amanda Jo Marshall Age 15 on December 18 Happy Birthday to our beautiful young lady! Daughter of Suzan & David Marshall Sister of Joseph

Emma Johnson

Age 6 on December 7 We love you Emma Bear! Daughter of Karrie & Richard Johnson Sister of Payton & Gracie

Katelyn Grace Henderson

Born on October 3, 2011 at 1:47 p.m. 7 lbs., 15 oz., 20 3/4 inches long Proud parents are Katie & Tim Henderson

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A VIEW from the Hill

It was the Best of Times — It was the Worst of Times And according to many it is still both!

Please let me know your thoughts at calvin.hill@house.ga.gov or (404) 656-0129. Thank you again for the honor of serving you in the Georgia General Assembly.

December brings us the excitement of the religious holidays of Hanukkah and Christmas along with the ending of the calendar year. For most it is filled with extra activities, parties and family gatherings. It is indeed a wonderful time of the year!

For those of us in the Legislature, it also is the month that we finalize our plans for the upcoming session, which starts January 9. We are busy preparing what legislation we will be filing, supporting or even trying to defeat once the opening gavel has fallen. With the economy our number one priority, we are working tirelessly to continue to balance the state budget and ensure that every one of your hard earned tax dollars is spent as wisely as possible. Even though Georgia spends – and wastes – less money per resident than any other state in the nation, there are still improvements to be made and waste to be found. Government – be it State or Federal – cannot create jobs, only the private sector can do that. It is our job to get out of the way of private companies and do all we can to encourage new job and company creation here at home. We also need to be aggressive in our attempts to attract companies from throughout the country and from all over the world! Georgia is one of the few states that maintains a AAA BOND RATING due to the fiscally conservative nature of the Governor and Legislature working together to maintain a balanced budget. With all departments starting a gradual phase in of Zero Based Budgeting, all expenses will soon have to be justified to continue their existence. It is up to us to make this the best of times for those who work hard, pay their taxes and support their families. We want to make it the best of times for companies who want to create new jobs and employee more and more Georgians. It is also up to us to make it the worst of times for individuals and companies who would attempt to take advantage of our citizens through any deceptive, unscrupulous or illegal practices. Yes, there are a lot of challenges lying ahead of us, but we continued on page 70 12 My West Canton | december 2011

School Board News

by Janet Read

Thanksgiving has always been Janet Read is the Board Chairperson my favorite holiday. I think and Representative for Post 4 for the that stems from growing up in Cherokee County School Board. Janet the Midwest where farming may be reached by e-mail at janet. read@cherokee.k12.ga.us. and harvesting were a central fall theme. Although I do love the foods associated with the Thanksgiving meal, more important to me is the opportunity to reflect on the things I am thankful for. As a Cherokee County School District (CCSD) Board member, I am constantly reminded of how thankful I am for those that work alongside of me. I would like to thank all the principals for their extraordinary work on their School Improvement Plans (SIP). The board had a chance to review these plans prior to our October 20 board meeting. After reviewing every plan, it is obvious that a lot of time and research went in to each and every one of these plans. Many people spent hours analyzing data and determining methods to improve their school in every area. Thank you to those principals, teachers and staff members who can analyze their school’s strengths and weaknesses and look for ways to improve. I would also like to thank the numerous CCSD employees, students and community members (473 to be exact) who took part in our recent accreditation review process by SACSCASI. This involved numerous interviews, a tremendous amount of documentation and site visits to eight schools. A special thanks to Assistant Superintendent Dr. Carla Cohen and her staff who led this effort and was rewarded with a renewed accreditation from the SACS committee. I am also thankful for those citizens who exercised their civic duty and voted in our most recent election on November 8. Too often folks think well, “my one vote won’t matter.” I have witnessed personally over the last 20 years in this county how every vote does matter. Thank you for letting your voice be heard. For those voters that researched the facts, familiarized themselves with the projects that have and will be funded by this one cent…thank you! Thank you to the numerous committee members from the 2011 Ed-SPLOST committee who spearheaded this effort on their own personal time, especially the chair, Mayor Donnie Henriques. One of the marks of a successful school district is the creation, implementation and refining of plans. The CCSD works tirelessly to fine-tune our ongoing plans. At our November 10 meeting, the board had the opportunity to review and approve continued on page 70

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December

Things to do in West Canton

December 2 & 3 A Night in Bethlehem — Come experience what Bethlehem was all about…

Time: Location:

6 — 8 p.m. Liberty Hill Church, 141 Railroad Street, Canton Information: Free, indoor community event for the whole family! Live Nativity, refreshments, hands-on crafts & activities, free family photo and more!

December 2, 3 & 4 Academy of Dance Arts presents its 6th Annual Nutcracker

December 10 & 11 Christmas Concert presented by The Cherokee Chorale Times: December 10, 5 p.m.; December 11, 3 p.m. Location: Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for students; available at the door Information: The feature work for this concert, conducted by Jenny Rawson, is “Ceremony of Carols” by Benjamin Britten with some traditional carols and lighter pieces. Tickets may be purchased in advance from any Chorale member, the Arts Center and Chamberhouse in Canton, Three Sisters Gifts in Hickory Flat, Jasper Drug in Jasper, and FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock. (678) 439-8625, www.cherokeechorale.org

Times:

December 2, 7 p.m.; December 3, 7 p.m.; December 4, 2 p.m. Location: Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton Cost: $14 for child/student/seniors $18 for adults Information: Purchase tickets at the Academy of Dance Arts office, 290 East Main Street, Canton (770) 479-4615.

December 9 & 10 The 4th Annual Performance of The Star Time: Location:

7 p.m. The Cherokee Arts Center 94 North Street, Canton Information: An evening of music, dance and theatre, celebrating “The Child Who is the Light.” Featuring local musicians, dancers and performers representing over 15 area churches. For more information and tickets, please go to www.follow-the-star.com.

December 10 Book Signing by Author Sandra Hordos Time: Location:

11 a.m. — 1 p.m. Yawn’s Bookstore, 210 East Main Street, Canton Information: Author Sandra Hordos will be

14 My West Canton | december 2011

signing her first release, “Marissa Plans a Princess Tea Party.” Feel free to have your children dress up in their princess dress and join Sandra for tea while she reads the book. Please RSVP for tea at (404) 374-1315 or just stop by to see Sandra.

December 15 Parent’s Night Out for Christmas Shopping Time: Location: Cost:

5 — 9 p.m. Magnolia Hall, Woodstock $5 per child or $7.50 for two children Information: Let us entertain your kids while you enjoy a little peaceful shopping this holiday season. We will have movies, fun, games, and food for kids ages 5 — 12! Reservations

are required. Please call (770) 517-6788 to register. Registration runs from December 1 — 9. Held by the City of Woodstock.

December 26 — 30 Winter Break Art Camp Times & ages:

9 a.m. — noon, 5 — 12 year olds; 1 — 4 p.m., teens Location: Studio121, “An Army of Artist that Unite, Equip and Reveal God’s Glory” 121 Brown Street, Canton Cost: $135. ($50 deposit to reserve your space) Information: Patricia Reeves (770) 479-6961, www.PatriciaReeves.com

Deadline fo r January Cale ndar Events

December 5 th

Cherokee County Bring One for the Chipper

December Events at Autumn Hill Nursery & Landscaping 100 Pea Ridge Road, Canton (770) 345-5252 www.autumnhillnursery.com

December 26 — January 14 Christmas Tree Chip & Dip Time: 9 a.m. — 4 p.m. Location: Olde Rope Mill Park Information: Throw away your Christmas tree the environmental way! Bring your Christmas trees and it will be fed into the new chipper. Then the following week, bring a shovel to Rope Mill Park any time during park hours from 8 a.m. to dusk to “dip” into the free mulch! Pick up free tree seedlings at the park on January 8 during Bring One for the Chipper event sponsored by the Keep Georgia Beautiful campaign.

December 7 “CENTERPIECE” MAKE & TAKE

December 26 — early to mid-January (varies by location)

Times: 11 a.m. & 7 p.m. Information: RSVP — Space is limited.

Bring One for the Chipper

December 9 “FIRESIDE READING”

Locations:

The Home Depot, Woodstock & Canton; Hobgood Park, Woodstock; Sequoyah Park, Woodstock; Boling Park, Canton; Ball Ground Community Center, Ball Ground; Holly Springs City Hall, Holly Springs. Information: Come out and recycle your Christmas trees. Some locations offer free mulch. Please visit individual locations for full details or for local information, please contact Marjorie Hicks at (678) 493-6060 or mhicks@cherokeega.com.

Time: 6:30 p.m. Cost: $5 per child Information: Join us at the fire pit for the reading of “Tea With Lady Sapphire.” Enjoy hot chocolate & make s’mores. Reservations only.

December 11 “CHRISTMAS GIFT” MAKE & TAKE Time: 1 p.m. Information: A revolving workshop where you create several unique gifts to take home & share. RSVP — Space is limited.

December 14 OVER THE TOP GIFT WRAPPING Time: 7 p.m. Information: RSVP — Space is limited.

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Under the

for most vocations, the top performers are underpaid and the bottom performers are improperly employed.

DOME

by State Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers

Teach for America Ralph Waldo Emerson once famously stated, “America is another word for opportunity.” Throughout our nation’s history this sentiment has held. The world has come knocking on our door for over 200 years seeking the chance to live in the place where it didn’t matter where you start because everyone has the chance to make it. But is this still true? Undoubtedly the world has become a smaller place. The global marketplace of today offers economic prospects far beyond the borders of the United States. A child living today in Beijing, Prague, Berlin, Vancouver, or Rio de Janeiro has opportunities to financially succeed in manners never dreamed by his or her parents. In many ways these children will be directly competing with American children for the first time. And make no mistake about it; the competition will be won by the educated. Three years ago I committed myself to placing education as the single most important long-term issue to which I would dedicate the focus of my legislative work. It was at this point I began to read and research everything I could, to find what works and what doesn’t. I am not certain if there is an end to this journey, but I am convinced on a few major items. First, giving students more choice is always preferable to less choice. Second, making learning an individualized process where delivery meets the needs and interest of the individual student is critical. Third, technology is essential to the rapid advancement of learning necessary to compete globally. Finally, teacher quality is directly related to student achievement. It is on this last point where we have some good news. Let me begin by stating that teachers who inspire educational achievement are not being properly compensated. Beyond the slogans of “we need to pay our teachers more” there is truly a solid economic case that a high-achieving teacher should earn more than $100,000 per year. Conversely there are also a few not suited for the teaching profession. This is customary 18 My West Canton | december 2011

Now, the good news. The “Teach for America” (TFA) program, which introduces new teachers that are highly trained, highly motivated, and extremely well-educated college graduates into poverty stricken education settings, is having amazing results. Recent studies in North Carolina, Louisiana, and Tennessee prove that TFA teachers are producing superior educational results. However, it was my visit to the New Schools at Carver in southeast Atlanta that convinced me this program is actually changing lives. The TFA teachers I met could have probably earned double their salary in private sector jobs, based upon their college degrees. These are mostly Ivy League graduates who have committed to working at inner-city Atlanta schools. And unless they had me fooled, they love it. One might think that finding such highly motivated and educated graduates who want to forego the big paycheck and comfy working conditions is difficult. You’d be wrong. The TFA program has become such a success that this year more than 50,000 applicants competed for just 5,000 jobs nationwide. The “average” graduate had a 3.6 GPA coming out of college and went into college with a 1344 SAT. Once the TFA teachers hit the classroom, following a rigorous training institute, their performance is impressive. Again, working in almost exclusively inner-city economically disadvantaged settings, the TFA teachers are outperforming the incremental standards by more than 300 percent according to the Urban Institute. Consider what this could mean for Atlanta, for Georgia, and for the United States. If we can raise the educational achievement of American students by just 10 percent we will again be in the top 10 internationally. If we can reduce the high school dropout rate by just 10 percent, the corresponding reduction in crime, incarceration costs, and government dependency will save billions of taxpayer dollars in Georgia alone. Finally, if we can inspire a new generation of students to embrace Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) we will hand to the next generation of Americans a nation that is freer and more prosperous than ever before. Benjamin Franklin once stated, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” We should never forget to properly thank those teachers who “involve” students and the organizations like Teach for America that help make it happen. Chip Rogers is the State Senator for District 21. You may contact him by phone at (404) 463-1378 or by e-mail at chiprogers21@comcast.net.

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LIBRARY

R.T. Jones l Woodstock

decemberEvents

December 5, 11 a.m. R.T. Jones Memorial Library December 8, 4:30 p.m. Woodstock Public Library Puppet Show: Reindeer Fiasco Can it be true? The holidays are going to be a disaster if Santa can’t figure out how to deliver the toys without his reindeer. All ages are invited to see if there is a solution to this dilemma.

December 11, 3 — 5 p.m. Woodstock Public Library A Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus Children of all ages are invited to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus for a great afternoon of fun. Seasonal activities include refreshments and music by hammer dulcimer player, Judy Griffin. Children will have the opportunity to make a special Christmas craft to take home for the holidays. Bring your camera for great Santa photos.

There are no scheduled story times in December.

R.T. Jones Memorial Library Family Story Times — Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m. Lapsit Story Time — Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Super Saturday Family Story Time — Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

Woodstock Public Library Family Story Times — Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m. Lapsit Story Times — Wednesdays, 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.

December 14, 4:30 p.m. R.T. Jones Memorial Library Polar Express Pajama Rama “All aboard the Polar Express!” Enjoy a ride on the Polar Express where we will do our best to bring the magic of the book to life. Dress up in your best pajamas and get your ticket at the door from the conductor for a seat on this exciting adventure. Our annual reading of this enchanting holiday classic story written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg will include a craft, music and refreshments. This program is for all ages. Space is limited and registration is required. Please call (770) 479-3090, ext. 233 to reserve a seat.

M — F: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m.

December 23 — 26, January 1 & 2: Closed

20 My West Canton | december 2011

M — Th: 10 a.m. — 6 p.m. Friday: 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m Sunday: CLOSED

7735 Main Street — (770) 926-5859

December 16: Closing at noon

Find the hidden picture

R.T. Jones Memorial Library 116 Brown Industrial Parkway — (770) 479-3090

Woodstock Public Library

Library Closings

Contest Corner

Sequoyah Regional Library System

Saturday: CLOSED

Sunday: 2 — 6 p.m.

www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org

Yvette Bean was our winner for November’s contest corner. Yvette will receive a gift card to Starbucks. Congratulations! If you find the hidden picture, be the first to email: art@mywestcantonmonthly.com Only emailed answers will be accepted. Contest participants are able to win one time per calendar year.

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P.O. Box 4998 3605 Marietta Hwy, Canton

770-345-0400 www.CherokeeChamber.com

Chart BioMedical

Prudential Georgia Realty â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Kaylin Pound

2205 Airport Industrial Drive Ball Ground (770) 721-7700 Respiratory & Biological Products

1351 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 100 Canton (770) 720-1400 Real Estate Agents & Brokers

22 My West Canton | december 2011

SCHOOL

r Deadline fo News: ol ho Sc y Januar th

December

Students Honor Our Veterans

Many local schools honored our Veterans recently. With special music, meals and celebrations, Veterans were recognized and thanked for their incredible service to our country. Clayton Elementary School

Liberty Elementary School

fan. The STEM Program was introduced at Cherokee Christian School this past August. For more information, please visit www.cherokeechristian.org. Left to right, back row: Russell Jones, Zac Kieffer, Mr. Drew Lawes, Jamie Petrizzo, Mr. Hal Scripka, Joshua Horne, Mr. Jonathan Becker.Left to right, front row: Ericka Youngberg, Olya Stang, Alex Hultstrom.

Local Brownie Troop Supports MUST Ministries

Zack, Josh and Jacob Vickers with their mom, Shannon Vickers, and their grandfather, Bob Stevens. Student Brady Caloway with his grandfather, John Elsert.

Sixes Elementary School

Second grader Preston Lawrence and kindergartener Vivian Lawrence with their step-father Mike.

Canton Elementary School

First year Brownie Troop 11417 from Sixes Elementary School recently visited Must Ministries to deliver food from a food drive they sponsored at Sixes Elementary.

Pictured top row from left to right: Hannah Forbes, Peyton White, Julia Clark, Madison Marcinkowski and Dale Cooper with MUST Ministries; bottom row from left to right: Mila Balboa, Andie Spain, Autumn Black, Nikki Bailey. (Not shown in photo Trinity Royal, Madelyn Glover, and Kayli Brown).

Liberty ES Holds Reflections Competition Canton Elementary School chorus

Cherokee Christian Students Begin STEM Program

Middle School students at Cherokee Christian School are currently building a hovercraft for their Introduction to Stem (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) class. The hovercraft is fully operational and uses a 6 ½ horsepower Briggs and Stratton vertical shaft engine connected to a high efficiency 23 inch ducted 24 My West Canton | december 2011

Marissa Hordos (pictured), a fourth grade student at Liberty Elementary School, recently accepted the honor of second place winner in the school’s Reflections contest. Marissa won this award for her photography. Congratulations!

Send us your School NEWS EMAIL: editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com

www.footprintspublishing.com

Charter & Private Schools Brenwood Academy

Hickory Flat UMC Preschool and Kindergarten

(770) 704--4925, www.brenwoodacademy.com

(770) 345-9354, www.hickoryflat.org

Cherokee Charter Academy

S C H O O L

(770) 276--3031, www.cherokeecharter.org

Lyndon Academy

Cherokee Christian Academy and High School (678) 494-5464

(770) 926-0166, www.lyndonacademy.org

Mission Point Christian Academy

www.cherokeechristian.org

(678) 880-1345, www.fbccanton.org

Community Christian School (770) 479-9535, www.ccscanton.org

North Cobb Christian School (770) 975-0252, www.ncchristian.org

Crossroads Christian Academy (770) 479-7638, www.crossroadsoflifebaptist.org

Shiloh Hills Christian School (770) 926-7729, www.shilohhills.com

Furtah Preparatory School (678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org

St. Joseph Catholic School (770) 428-3328, www.stjosephschool.org

Harvest Baptist School (770) 974-9091 www.harvestbaptistacworth.org

Public Schools

Cherokee County School District Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us (770) 479-1871 Canton Elementary School

Hasty Elementary School

Cherokee High School

Knox Elementary School

Clayton Elementary School

Liberty Elementary School

Freedom Middle School

M.A. Teasley Middle School

712 Marietta Highway Canton, GA 30114 (770) 720-6100 Principal: Ms. Gwen Lince

930 Marietta Highway Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-4112 Principal: Ms. Debra Murdock

10550 Bells Ferry Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 345-4100 Principal: Ms. Karen Hawley

8871 Knox Bridge Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-7077 Principal: Dr. Susan Zinkil

December 19 — 30

School Holiday Staff Development & Work Day

February 20 — 24

Sixes Elementary School

School Holiday

Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com Parent Connect: https://pcxp.cherokee.k12.ga.us 26 My West Canton | december 2011

20 Ridge Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 345-3070 Principal: Mr. John Hultquist

Woodstock High School

10500 Bells Ferry Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 345-6411 Principal: Dr. Nicole Holmes

2011 — 2012 Calendar at a Glance

January 16

1375 Puckett Road Waleska, GA 30183 (770) 479-3978 Principal: Ms. Jan Adamson

151 River Bend Way Canton, GA 30114 (770) 345-4307 Principal: Dr. Kelly Jo Brooks

221 Upper Burris Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-2550 Principal: Ms. Beth Long

January 2

R.M. Moore Elementary School

205 Brown Industrial Parkway Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-1600 Principal: Mr. Izell McGruder

2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-3500 Principal: Mr. Bill Sebring

Woodstock Middle School

2000 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-3516 Principal: Mr. Mark Smith

Local Colleges & Universities Kennesaw State University

(770) 423-6000, www.kennesaw.edu

Chattahoochee Technical College

(770) 528-4545, www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Reinhardt University

(770) 720-5600, www.reinhardt.edu

www.footprintspublishing.com 27

r Deadline fo News: ts or Sp y Januar th

December

SPORTS

Friends Reconnect as Reinhardt Football Gets Underway

Reinhardt University Assistant Football Coach Will Heath and Head Football Coach Dr. Danny Cronic connect with Sheriff Roger Garrison ’98 at the recent Athletics Golf Tournament, hosted by Reinhardt at Callahan’s Golf Links. Heath and Cronic coached “The Sheriff” back in the 70s at Cherokee High School. The three enjoyed reminiscing about football and the days when everyone had a “full head of hair.” Garrison joined all in attendance at the tournament to welcome Heath and Cronic back to the area as football coaches for the future Reinhardt University football team, which is slated to begin play in fall 2013. For more information about Reinhardt’s football program, visit www.reinhardteagles.com.

From left: Assistant Football Coach Will Heath, Head Football Coach Dr. Danny Cronic and Sheriff Roger Garrison.

Lauren Steves is Named 2011 YMCA Volunteer of Year

The G. Cecil Pruett Community Center/ Cherokee Outdoor YMCAs are recognizing Lauren Steves (pictured) as their 2011 Volunteer of the Year. Steves was honored at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta annual volunteer recognition dinner held recently at the Cobb Galleria Centre. Steves has been volunteering at the Y since 2007 and first got involved through the Teen Leaders Club. She volunteers at the front desk as much as possible; participated in Mission: Atlanta, a servant leadership program for the past two years; participated in teen international mission trips; and volunteered for service projects in her local community. “The reason I make volunteering with the YMCA a priority is because of the fact that I always feel comfortable there,” says Steves. “It’s important for teenagers to get involved in their communities, because we’re 28 My West Canton | december 2011

trying to break stereotypes.” Steves is a senior at Cherokee High School, and lives in Canton with her parents, Andrea and Victor Steves. She is a member of the National Honor Society and also volunteers her time at the animal shelter and after-school tutoring.

Hasty ES Participates in Fall Classic 2011

Staff, students and parents from Hasty Elementary participated in the YMCA and Cherokee Rotary Fall Classic Road Race recently. Participants could choose between the 10K, 5K, or 1 Mile run. The event is held annually at the YMCA in Canton and presents a wonderful opportunity for family bonding, physical activity and personal achievement. Hasty Elementary students have been participating in the President’s Active Lifestyle Award, a partnership between the school, the YMCA and the Cherokee Rotary. Students recorded 60 minutes of physical activity each day for six weeks. The road race served as a final activity for competition. The winning classes (recording the most time) earned a field trip to the YMCA and certificate of achievement from President Obama.

Send us your

SPorts NEWS EMAIL: editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com Deadline is December 5th

www.footprintspublishing.com 29

30 My West Canton | december 2011

Photos courtesy of Wendell Webb, candwphotos.com

Gentle Dentistry

For the Entire Family

www.footprintspublishing.com 31

SUZANNE SPEAKS

THE

Best Gift

Scribbles4Squirts

by Suzanne Taylor Have you started decorating If you are a woman who started your house for the holidays? I her own unique company or are a have, and even though I have direct-selling company, please contact tons of holiday decorations, it Suzanne Taylor by e-mail at taylor105@ aol.com or visit http://suzannetaylor. is fun to add a little something willowhouse.com/. new each year. Check out these new handmade holiday wreaths by Scribbles4Squirts on facebook. Whimsical and fun, they are a unique addition to any holiday décor, and you can customize them with your own holiday hues. At a recent craft show, I met Erin Meers and Beth Morrish from Scribbles4Squirts. Erin started the company a few years ago making custom monogrammed and appliquéd clothing as gifts for her kids and friends. As the company grew to include holiday Erin Meers and Beth Morrish items, her friend Beth Morrish joined the team. Erin said, “Working with a friend has opened up a whole new world of creativity for the business.” The company’s passion has always been the embroidered and appliquéd items for children, but as they created crafty and customized items for their own homes, they realized that they could expand into a gift line. Their holiday items and wreaths have been a huge growth market for them. Check out their website at www.scribbles4squirts.com or you can also follow them on facebook at Scribbles4Squirts. Local pick up is available in the Canton area since they are residents here, but unfortunately, some items are too large to ship. Click on “For the Home” and fall in love with their cute stocking and tree door hangers that can be personalized with your name for $48. Their holiday wreaths are $50 as shown in the photo. Both women have always loved arts and crafts and they read blogs and shop unique stores for their inspirations. If you have an idea of something you want to create and it’s not on their website, the girls will try to help you bring your vision to life. To see their cute monogrammed rainboots, custom candles, and adorable outfits for your children, visit them at the Cherokee Charter Academy holiday bazaar on December 3. They will also be at the Carmel Elementary School’s Holiday Bazaar on December 10 at 11 a.m. — 2 p.m. You can also reach them by email at erin.meers@gmail.com and bethmann10@yahoo.com. 32 My West Canton | december 2011

by Jyl Craven The holiday season is here: jingle bells and sleigh rides; presents under the tree; and parties with family and friends. More than hoping for a diamond ring or a kiss from a handsome man under the mistletoe, what do we Jyl Craven of Jyl Craven Hair Design want more than anything else? of Canton. For information you may We want to look good in the contact the salon at (770) 345-9411 holiday pictures and videos or visit www.jylcraven.com. that last forever. Looking spectacular in all those pictures is essential now that people are sending their photos to Facebook for everyone to see. You never know who may see that picture — or who may wish they looked as good as you. So what’s a great gift to give yourself this holiday season? Give yourself the gift of looking and feeling amazing by taking a trip to the salon. Whether it’s to touch up your roots, to get a new haircut, or to have your hair fixed for a special party, don’t skip out on something that could make or break your holiday season. While you’re out shopping for presents or decorating the house or making Christmas cookies, don’t forget about yourself. You’ll enjoy your holiday season so much more if you feel good about yourself. While you’re in the salon, ask your stylist for advice on the best hair care products. With each minute packed fuller than Santa’s bags, see if your stylist can recommend hair care that will make it quicker and easier to get picture perfect hair during that busy holiday season. And be sure to get something that prevents dry hair during the colder months to ensure your hair stays as shiny as the lights on the Christmas tree.

“

You’ll have one less thing to worry about and one more thing to celebrate — a beautiful and relaxed you!

”

Make sure you feel pretty this holiday season by visiting your hair salon. You’ll have one less thing to worry about and one more thing to celebrate — a beautiful and relaxed you! Oh! And on your way out the door, pick up a few of your favorite products for friends so they can look as good as you. Why do one thing when you can get three things done instead? Most of all enjoy the holidays and have a happy new year!

www.footprintspublishing.com 33

My West Canton Monthly has contacted several organizations within our community that are in need of assistance to make sure that families can celebrate the holidays just as you will be doing. Listed are several organizations to which you could volunteer time, effort or funds to assist in making the season a little brighter for all; some are new and some are updated from the list in the November magazine. We hope this list is helpful as you consider your participation in offering hope this holiday season.

Adopt a Local Family or Child for the Holidays

Many local Cherokee children and families are in need this holiday season. Reach out to your local community by adopting a child or family and assisting them this holiday. Clothing and shoe sizes are available as well as individual and family needs. To help out a neighbor in need, please contact Whitney Minton or Matt Singletary, Professional School Counselors, Canton Elementary School at (770) 720-6100, ext. 245.

Cherokee Sheriff’s Reserve Unit

Each year the Cherokee Sheriff’s Reserve Unit’s Christmas Joy Program helps families, children, and the elderly receive food, toys and basic necessities. These items are gathered and distributed by the Reserve Unit through donation of money and food from individuals, companies, service organizations and schools. In 2010, the Unit served over 100 families, 223 children and 111 elderly. If you need assistance and your children are in the Cherokee County School System contact their school counselors. If you would like to make a donation, please make your check payable to the Cherokee Sheriff’s Reserve Unit and mail to Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, c/o Reserve Unit, 498 Chattin Drive, Canton, GA 30115. If you have any questions regarding the program, please contact Sgt. John Forkin at (678) 333-6345.

MUST Ministries

(UPDATED)

MUST Ministries Marietta will be collecting toys for ages birth through 18 years for its Christmas Toy Shop. Toys can be dropped off at the Marietta location, 1407 Cobb Parkway, December 3 — 22 from 9:30 a.m. — 2 p.m. and 5 — 8 p.m. New, unwrapped toys for children and new gifts for teens and for parents are needed; the largest need exists for older children. MUST Ministries is also in need of new winter hats, mittens, scarves, underwear and socks, large trash bags, and Christmas gift wrap. Volunteers are needed to sort toys, set up and staff the Toy Shop, and to replenish supplies and take down the shop. For more information, or to donate, please call (770) 427-9862.

Cherokee County DFCS Secret Santa Program

(UPDATED)

Cherokee County Department of Family and Children Services Secret Santa Program needs sponsors to provide Christmas for approximately 200 foster children this year. If you can sponsor a child for Christmas, or would like to make a donation, please contact Ann Feczko, Secret Santa Volunteer, at (678) 427-9393, or email Ann at feczkoj@bellsouth.net. She will mail a Secret Santa information kit out to you. You can also get 34 My West Canton | december 2011

more information at the website: www.cherokeesanta.org. The website contains a downloadable sponsor form for your convenience.

NEWAdopt A Project for Seniors

Cherokee County Senior Services currently has several community service projects available to any business, church, individual, or community service group that may be looking for an opportunity to help a senior this holiday season. They have a list of projects ranging from wheel chair ramps and home repairs to yard work and cleaning. If you would like to find out what projects are currently available, please contact Stacy Jones at (770) 345-5312 or Laura Alvizo at (770) 345-3297.

Foster Care Support Foundation, Inc.

Foster Care Support Foundation, Inc. (FCSF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting thousands of Georgia’s foster and displaced children by providing free clothes, toys and infant-care equipment. During the holiday season and all year round, Foster Care Support Foundation is in need of new, like new, and gently worn clothing for preemie sizes to size 24; underwear, socks, and shoes which are new unless they are infant sizes; toys in great repair; and boys pants and sneakers. FCSF also accepts gifts such as CDs for teens and hand-held games. Monetary donations and sponsorships for its operation and support are crucial, as well as its All Kids Count benefit, to be held March 10, 2012, in helping FCSF continue the programs that provide this essential resource for atrisk children. Volunteers are also needed. Items not needed or used for children that are in excellent condition such as furniture, household décor, and quality adult clothing is placed in the Fostering Hope Bargain Resale shop, 1425 Market Blvd., Suite 340, Roswell. For more information, contact (770) 641-9591, help@fostercares.org or www.fostercares.org.

Christmas Angel Ministry

(UPDATED)

Hillside United Methodist Church congregation seeks to extend Christ’s love by providing toys, clothing and food to children in Cherokee County through the Christmas Angels program. This year they expect to serve 800 children that come from DFACs, Housing Authority, Murphy Harpst, Goshen Valley Boys Home and the schools our children attend. The goal is to be able to provide a full Christmas, school supplies, and food to each and every one of these children. For Murphy Harpst, they will provide financial donations for therapy for the children and for Goshen Valley they will be providing financial donations for the boys’ summer programs which have been cut from their budget. Donations may be sent

to Hillside United Methodist Church, Christmas Angels, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189 or online at http://www.hillsideumc.org/giving.html, make sure you designate Christmas Angels. For questions, you can contact Sherri Walker on (404) 281-7686.

Papa’s Pantry

(UPDATED)

Papa’s Pantry, main office: 6551 Commerce Pkwy, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA 30189, has several opportunities to help during the holidays. Papa’s Pantry will provide Christmas meal items to families in the community who are in need. Special holiday items are requested: stuffing, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, apples, cream of mushroom soup, jarred or canned gravy, chicken stock, fried onion crispies, cooking oil, coffee, beverages, and tin foil. Items need to be delivered to the main office by Saturday, December 17 from 10 a.m. – 12 noon. Financial contributions are also needed (and can be made online) to help purchase perishables, such as turkeys, milk, eggs, butter, frozen pies, spices and various fresh veggies. For Christmas giving, you may adopt a family. Families will be matched through mid-December. Gifts, Christmas trees, lights and ornaments are some of the holiday needs. Throughout the winter months, Papa’s Pantry also accepts new electric space heaters for its clients in need. Overall, food drives throughout the season are needed to feed families through both of its Papa’s Cherokee locations: canned meat, cereal, cereal bars, peanut butter, jelly, spaghetti sauce, canned fruit, canned pasta, boxed and packaged side items. For more information, call Papa’s Pantry, at (770) 591-4730 or visit www.papaspantry.org.

Soldiers’ Angels

Soldiers’ Angels is a volunteer-led non-profit with more than 30 different teams and projects supporting all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Soldiers’ Angels sends letters, care packages, and comfort items to the deployed and supports the families here at home. It also provides assistance to the wounded, continuing support for veterans; remembrances and comfort for families of the fallen; and immediate response to unique difficulties. Through special projects and dedicated teams and individuals supporting our troops, Soldiers’ Angels makes a visible difference in the lives of our service members and their families. To get involved visit www.soldiersangels.org.

Toys for Tots

Alessandro’s Italian Café & Pizzeria is an official Toys for Tots drop off location. Please bring any donations of new, unwrapped toys to the restaurant located at 10511 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. Toys will be collected through December 19.

NEW Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council

The Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) is an organization dedicated to supporting programs that benefit all of Cherokee County Senior Services’ programs such as Meals-on Wheels, the Last Stop Fund for utility bills, meds and other emergency needs, the Fan Drive, Building/Restoration Project, the Food Closet and more. The VAC also provides nearly $1000 each month to purchase nutritional supplements for those who cannot eat regular meals due to medical conditions. The VAC relies on donations as they are vital to the continued success of the many programs it supports. Any donation is greatly appreciated and can be designated specifically towards one of their programs, listed in more detail on their website, or you can allow them to apply those funds to the area of greatest current need. All funds stay in Cherokee County

and are used for the most frail and needy members of our community. Please consider including the VAC in your 2011 holiday giving and as you draw up your 2012 charitable budget. Donations can be made online at their website at www.VAC-CherokeeGA.org, or you can send your check payable to the Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council to P.O. Box 291, Lebanon, GA, 30146.

NEW Holiday Toy Drive

Bank of North Georgia is hosting a Holiday Toy Drive from through December 16 at all 41 branches in metro Atlanta. Last year, the bank collected a total of 2,787 toys for children. Each branch selected a local charity to support. Customers and local residents can participate in the Holiday Toy Drive by bringing new, unwrapped toys for boys and girls to the following Bank of North Georgia branches: Canton – Salvation Army of Cherokee County. The Salvation Army Cherokee County Service Center provides emergency food, clothing, lodging, transportation, supplies for infants, prescription vouchers, rent and utility assistance, counseling, and referrals to other more comprehensive Salvation Army crisis centers to individuals and families facing a financial crisis. http://www.uss.salvationarmy.org. Woodstock – Cherokee County Division of Family & Children’s Services (DFCS). The Division of Family and Children Services investigates child abuse; finds foster homes for abused and neglected children; helps low income, out-of-work parents get back on their feet; assists with childcare costs for low income parents who are working or in job training; and provides numerous support services and innovative programs to help troubled families. http://www.dfcs.dhr.georgia.gov.

NEW Cherokee Gift Connection

The Cherokee Gift Connection is an online means of donating to a Cherokee County boy or girl between the ages of 16 and 21. Gift options include: GED testing fees, SAT and ACT testing fees; college application fees, transportation and emergency housing. You can also make donations for: gas cards, job interview clothing, work uniform cost, and child care cost. You can also give the gift of your talents. Go to the Gift Connection and volunteer your services with: car repair, tutoring, haircuts and styling, music lessons, art classes, cooking classes, or job shadowing opportunities. The donations are tax deductible and you will be issued a receipt. All gifts and donations will be matched with one of the youth in the Cherokee Youth Works program. These teenagers have already undergone an interview and qualify as low-income or at-risk. Money is given directly to school, store or organization that provides a service. www.cherokeefocus.org

Thank you

for your support and

happy holidays! www.footprintspublishing.com 35

Website: www.gbgm-umcorg/ woodstockumc.ga

• Christmas Family Dinner on December 19, cost is $8 per person, call church to RSVP by December 11 • Christmas Eve Worship on December 24 at 3 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship in Latin and Traditional Christmas music on December 25 at 11 a.m.

Allen Temple, AME Church

Where: 232 Arnold Mill Road Contact: (770) 926-6348 Website: www.allentempleame.org

• Christmas Program “Love at Christmas” on December 18 at 5 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship on December 25 at 11 a.m. • Watch Night on December 31 from 9:30 — midnight

Chabad Jewish Center – West Cobb

Where: 4255 Wade Green Road, NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw Contact: (678) 460-7702 Website: www.JewishWoodstock.com

• 4th Annual public Menorah Lighting in Cherokee County in downtown Woodstock City Park on Tuesday, December 20 at 6 p.m. Free festivities include family fun, Dreidels and Latkes, entertainment and more. • Chanukah Gift Boutique through December 20 at the Chabad Jewish Center. Call for times. • Pre-Chanukah Children’s Program at Chabad Hebrew School on Sunday, December 18 at 10:30 a.m. Join the Dreidel Tournament, make Chanukah crafts, and enjoy refreshments and more.

Cherokee Baptist Church

Where: 7770 Hickory Flat Hwy Contact: (770) 720-3399 Website: www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

• Children’s Program on December 11 at 6 p.m. • Christmas Eve Service on December 24 at 5 p.m.

Church at North Gate

Where: 9876 Main Street Contact: (678) 494-2193 Website: www.ngca.org

• Christmas Worship Service on Friday, December 23 at 7 p.m.

City On A Hill A New United Methodist Church Where: 7745 Main Street Contact: (678) 445-3480 Website: www.coahumc.org

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship on Saturday, December 24 at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. • Christmas Day Communion Worship Service on Sunday, December 25 at 5 p.m.

36 My West Canton | december 2011

First Baptist Church Woodstock Where: 11905 Hwy 92 Contact: (770) 926-4428 Website: www.fbcw.org

• Christmas Program “Come See the Lamb” on Friday, December 9 and Saturday December 10 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 11 at 6 p.m. • Christmas Eve Service on December 24 at 5 p.m. • Christmas Day Service at 10:30 a.m.

St. Michael the Archangel

Where: 490 Arnold Mill Road Contact: (770) 516-0006

• Fr. Cassian Folson, O.S.B. will present a reflection on the Spiritual meaning of Advent on Friday, December 2 at 7 p.m. • Christmas Eve Mass: 4, 6, and 8 p.m.; Choir begins at 11 p.m.; Midnight Mass at midnight • Christmas Day Mass: 9 a.m. and Spanish at 11 a.m.

Timothy Lutheran Church, LC-MS Where: 556 Arnold Mill Road Contact: (770) 928-2812

• Advent Worship Services on Wednesdays, December 7 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. • Christmas Eve Service on December 24: Family worship at 5:30 p.m.; Candlelight with Communion at 7:30 and 10 p.m. • Christmas Day Service on December 25 with Holy Communion at 10 a.m. • New Year’s Day Service on January 1 with Holy Communion at 1 a.m.

Hillside United Methodist Church

Where: 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Contact: (770) 924-4777 Website: www.hillsideumc.org

• Family Christmas Eve Services: 3 & 5 p.m. in the Celebration Hall • Traditional Christmas Eve Services: 3, 5, 7 & 10:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary • Contemporary Christmas Eve Service: 7 p.m. in the Celebration Hall

Hickory Flat Church

Where: 4056 East Cherokee Drive Contact: (770) 345-5969

• Choir Christmas Concert with Kingdom Kids, instrumental ensemble, and handbells — December 3 at 7 p.m. & December 4 at 3 p.m. • Christmas Eve Worship, 5 p.m. – Contemporary with Children’s Moment, Holy Communion and candle light; 7 p.m. – Contemporary with Holy Communion and candle light; 9 p.m. – Traditional with Holy Communion and candle light • Christmas Day Worship, 9:20 & 11 a.m.

Canton First United Methodist Church Where: 930 Lower Scott Mill Road Contact: (770) 479-2502 Website: www.cantonfirstumc.org

• Family Christmas Eve Service, 5 p.m.; Christmas Eve Service, 8 & 11 p.m.; Christmas Day Traditional Worship, 11 a.m.

Woodstock Christian Church

Hopewell Baptist Church

• Children’s Choir performance of “The Great Christmas Giveaway,” Saturday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m. • Christmas Choir Program, “The Christmas Lamb,” on Sunday, December 18 at 10:30 a.m. • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on Saturday, December 24 at 6:30 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship on Sunday, December 25 at 10:30 a.m.

Christmas Eve Experience in the Woodstock City Park, sponsored by Momentum Church

Where: 7700 Hwy 92 Contact: (770) 926-8238 Website: www.woodstockchristian.org

Woodstock UMC

Where: 109 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: (770) 516-0371

Where: 75 Ridge Road, Canton Contact: (770) 345-5723 Website: www.hopewellbaptist.com Christmas Eve Services, 2 & 4 p.m.; Christmas Day Service, 10 a.m.

Time: 5 p.m. Website: www.ChristmasinWoodstock.com

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? This is a free event complete with music, cocoa, an appearance by Santa on a Woodstock Fire engine, and also enough snow to play in! The snow area will be open to play in from 4:30 — 6:15 p.m.

It’s

amazing to thin k that the holid ays are just around the corner! Shopping, compa ny parties, spec ial dinners, family gatherin gs…the coming m onths are full of festivities and busyness. Le t our community busin esses simplify so me of the holiday hust le and bustle — st ay local! Whether it’s that perfect gift for that special someone, an up dated style to lo ok your best, preparing your home for holiday guests or holiday help in the kitchen, My West Canton Monthly’s 2011 Holiday Guide has just what you need to take care of your holiday to-do list and check it twice! Let the Holiday Guide take you from “naughty” to “nice!”

Key's Jewelry

Alessandro's

(770) 479-4834 www.keysjewelry.com

Italian Cafe & Pizzeria

What A Girl Wants

Canton Jewelry

Clark Salon

(770) 345-4446 www.alessandroscafe.com

Afterglow Spa (770) 720-1134 www.afterglowspa.net

(770) 720-2040 Find us on Facebook!

(770) 720-1965 www.cantonjewelry.com

(770) 479-0052 www.clarksalon.com www.footprintspublishing.com 37

38 My West Canton | december 2011

www.footprintspublishing.com 39

40 My West Canton | december 2011

by Megan McGinnis

ecember: the month children have been dreaming of for the past eleven months. The next twenty five days will be filled with dreams of presents, good food, no school, Christmas morning and, most important, Santa Claus. Children will line up in parks and malls simply to tell a jolly man in a red suit what he or she wants for Christmas. Santa has become a symbol for the season and brings a feeling of magic and wonder to young kids. “Santa” Tim and Pam Cavender have been bringing this seasonal aura to Georgia every year for nearly four decades and have spun a certain magic themselves. Tim Cavender was born and raised in Ball Ground and works as the Director of Public Affairs for Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. He first played Santa as a junior during a Christmas program at Cherokee High School and then played Santa in downtown Ball Ground for Keenum’s Pharmacy and Toyland. He’s currently in his 37th year of playing Santa. Throughout the course of his career, he has been featured on CNN, helped with the tree lighting at the Governor’s Mansion twice (and will be returning this year), helped meteorologist Chris Holcomb on 11Alive predict a white Christmas on TV last year, and he travels around the South every year to listen to the requests of young children. During the off season, Tim and Pam have helped hundreds of other Santas and Mrs. Claus’ to be better at their portrayal of the Jolly Ole’ Elf and his wife. This creates a very hectic schedule for Tim Cavender and his wife, who plays Mrs. Claus. The preparation Mr. Cavender goes through to become Santa is a rigorous process. He’s what is considered a ‘traditional’ Santa, meaning he wears a designer mustache and beard. He says his reasoning behind this is so he can walk into a crowd and have no one know he is Santa. He also says it takes the better part of 40 minutes to put his entire ensemble on. His first suit was ordered from JCPenney, and his current Santa suit is custom made with a real leather belt.

The result is one of the most impressive I’ve seen in my seventeen years of Santa encounters. He looks like he just walked off a Christmas Coca-Cola ad. I met with Mr. Cavender and he was happy to give me a tour of his basement, or “Santa’s workshop.” It’s filled with memorabilia and autographs from the casts of The Wizard of Oz and Gone with the Wind amongst many others, a refurbished soda fountain, an entire room filled with trains and toys from the 1960s, and a Christmas room. The Christmas room is just as it sounds: a room filled with everything to do with the joyous season. There’s a wall covered in autographs from famous Santa Claus actors (Tim Allen, Ed Asner, etc.), magazine covers featuring Mr. Cavender, and Christmas decorations from the 60s. There are two Christmas trees: one a regular artificial tree, the other a miniature silver tree with a color changing light below it. It’s a magical feeling to be in the room. The Cavenders work a magic that I haven’t felt in at least six years. Just being around Mr. Cavender, to feel his enthusiasm and his love for what he does, makes you want to be a child again — staring up at Santa Claus in wonder for the first time, wondering just how it is that he can fit down your chimney with himself and your toys. He’s strived to become something more than a Mall Santa. For young children, he has made Santa something tangible, someone who makes wishes come true.

Megan McGinnis (pictured left with Mr. Cavender) is a senior at Woodstock High School. She is currently writing articles for VisionQUEST, the senior project at her school. She hopes to attend Armstrong Atlantic State University in pursuit of a degree in English and Communications.

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Holiday Parades & Santa Sightings Santa Letters

Now — December 16 Would you like for your child to receive a special letter from Santa? If so, drop your child’s letter to Santa off at the Recreation Center located in Woodstock at Main Street along with $2 each. Letters will be accepted at the Recreation Center until December 16. Once received, Santa will personally reply to each letter and mail it back to your child from the North Pole! Don’t forget the return address! www.crpa.net

Ball Ground Hometown Christmas Magic December 2

The city of Ball Ground will hold its annual parade starting at 6:30 p.m. Fire trucks, elves, the Grinch and Mary Lou Whovier, floats, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available at the gazebo in downtown Ball Ground, plus hot chocolate and marshmallow roasting. (770) 735-2123

24th Annual Canton Optimist Club Christmas Parade December 3, 5:30 p.m.

Historic downtown Canton The city of Canton will hold its annual Christmas parade beginning at 5:30 p.m. Visit with Santa on his sleigh at the gazebo in Cannon Park from noon — 4 p.m.

Holly Springs Christmas Parade December 3, 3:30 p.m.

The city of Holly Springs will hold its annual Christmas parade beginning at 3 p.m. The parade will be on Holly Springs Parkway beginning at Hiram Way to Hickory Road. (770) 345-5536

Woodstock Annual Parade of Lights

The Park at City Center! Enjoy free marshmallow roast in the park and help the Woodstock Jaycees Christmas Toy Drive for Cherokee County’s less fortunate children. Monetary donations will be accepted or you can bring any new, unwrapped toy! Have the kids drop off their letters to Santa in the North Pole Mailbox in the gazebo before December 19, and they will receive a letter back from Santa!

Holiday Activities for the Family The Annual Holiday Clay Market

December 1 — 11; Thurs., Fri., Sat., 11 a.m. — 7 p.m.; Sunday, 1 — 4 p.m. 120 S. Main St., Jasper Presented by the Georgia Clay Council in conjunction with Artsmith Pottery and Regina Hines Studios. Shop local and enjoy the art and artistry of 30 local clay artists. Handmade gifts are the signature of a gift given after careful consideration and selection...share the romance of handmade work. Visit the clay artists online and view some of the possibilities, www.gaclay.com. Georgia Clay Council can also be found on Facebook.

Nutcracker Tea December 3; 4:15 p.m.

Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main Street, Woodstock (770) 516-2609

2011 Christmas Tour of Homes December 3 & 4, 1 — 6 p.m.

Hosted by the Bradshaw Farm Women’s Club, the cost for the event is $15 per person, open to ages 12 and older. Five homes in the Bradshaw Farm community will be featured. Tickets may be purchased on the day of the event at the community clubhouse or email bradshawfarmchristmastour@comcast.net for other ticket locations.

8th Annual Back to Bethlehem

December 3, 5:30 p.m.

December 3 — 11; 7 — 9 p.m.

Kick off the holiday season with Woodstock’s traditional Christmas Jubilee Parade of Lights at 5:30 p.m. starting at the old Wal-Mart/Furniture for Less Store on Hwy 92, going north on Main Street to Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road. Bring your children after the parade to The Park at City Center (formerly Downtown City Park) to visit Santa with their wish lists. Mayor Henriques will announce the winners of the Best Holiday Float and Most Original Float. Preservation Woodstock honors its Citizen of the Year with an award, and the evening ends with the lighting of The Park and Christmas Tree! Musical entertainment at 6:45 p.m. right after the parade in

Hopewell Baptist Church 75 Ridge Road, Canton (770) 345-5723 www.backtobethlehem.com Be transported back 2,000 years to the ancient city of Bethlehem the night Jesus was born. Join Hopewell Baptist Church for an interactive, outdoor event as you stroll through the city, mingle with the townspeople and street vendors, sample baked goods, pet the live animals and register for the census. Arrive at the inn. . . discover the miracle of Christ’s birth in the stable. . . Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, the wisemen. . . move on to experience the crucifixion and risen Christ. Free to the public.

42 My West Canton | december 2011

Drive through Live Nativity December 9 — 11; 6 — 8 p.m.

Big Springs United Methodist Church 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock See the Christmas story come alive with real actors and live animals. Bring the little ones in their PJ’s as you can see it all from the car. Cookies and hot apple cider will be served. For more information, please call Pastor Stephen Horne (678) 918-0992.

Santa’s Shoppe on Sixes

Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Take some time out during the holiday rush to spend time with family, friends, and nature! Chattahoochee Nature Center, has an entire day planned for you to relax and enjoy the season. •

•

December 10; 10 a.m. — 2 p.m.

Sixes Presbyterian Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton www.sixeschurch.org Activities include vendors, crafts, food, free gift wrap, kid’s cookie and craft decorating, and pictures with Santa.

Canes & Cocoa

December 10, 10 a.m.

•

Live Reindeer: 1 — 4 p.m. Meet live reindeer during a special holiday appearance at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Don’t forget your camera! Oh Deer: 3 p.m. While visiting the reindeer, stop in for a story-time reading of “Stranger in the Woods.” Kids will love hearing the story of a deer meeting a new friend and getting a favorite treat. Magic Reindeer “Food”: noon — 4 p.m. Will the reindeer visit your house this winter? Make some magic reindeer “food” in the Nature Exchange to attract some magic reindeer. Nature Crafts: 1 — 3 p.m. Make some gifts for nature while you are at CNC!

Holiday Performances

The Valley Playground at J.J. Biello Park, Woodstock Bundle up the family and come out for a fun event at the largest playground! Children receive a special holiday bag and are sent to hunt for candy canes on both the small and large playground. Following the hunt, families can enjoy hot cocoa and holiday snacks in the pavilion and “sleigh” rides on a tractor. You never know what special guests may appear! Maybe the Grinch? Santa’s helpers? Cindy Lou Who? Don’t miss out on this fun event! Please pre-register by December 8th. All ages, $5 per child www.crpa.net

The Little Drummer Boy

An Old Fashioned Christmas at the Farm

Friday, December 9 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, December 10 at 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 11 at 2:30 p.m.

December 11; 11:30 a.m. — 4 p.m. (rain date December 18)

Performed by Elm Street Cultural Arts City Center — 8534 Main Street, Woodstock

December 3, 4, 11 & 18 at 2 p.m. December 21 at 10 a.m. www.elmstreetarts.org

Nutcracker Performed by Dancenter South Joe Mack Wilson Theater Southern Poly Tech University, Marietta

(770) 516-7229, www.dancentersouth.com

1768 Newt Green Road, Cumming (770) 886-5419, www.savethehorses.org It’s a holiday fun day for the whole family at the farm with proceeds benefitting Save the Horses Rescue, Relief, and Retirement Fund. Sleigh rides, pony rides, petting zoo, plate lunches, face painting and crafts, games for all ages, photos with “Santa” horse, homemade baked goods, bonfire and marshmallows, a special angel tree and a visit from the big ‘ole jolly man himself.

A Christmas Carol

Main Street Sessions Christmas Celebration

4th Annual Performance of the Star

Woodstock Visitors Center, Dean’s Store The Christmas tradition continues as Santa visits. A guest reader will entertain as well and read some classic Christmas stories. Parents are encouraged to bring their cameras to take pictures of their kids with Santa.

December 9 — 10 at 7 p.m.

CNC Gifts for Nature

December 15 — 17 & 23 at 7:30 p.m.

December 17; 1 p.m.

December 18; 1 — 4 p.m., all ages

Perfomed by Elm Street Cultural Arts City Center — 8534 Main Street, Woodstock

December 9 at 7:30 p.m. December 10 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. December 22 at 7:30 p.m. December 24 at 2 p.m. www.elmstreetarts.org

Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton (404) 277-1736, www.follow-the-star.com

It’s a Wonderful Life Performed by Elm Street Cultural Arts City Center — 8534 Main Street, Woodstock www.elmstreetarts.org www.footprintspublishing.com 43

by Susan Cannizzaro The Junior Service League of Woodstock (JSL) had a very successful 15th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes on November 12 and 13, raising over $17,000 for 11 different charities in the Cherokee County area. Eleven hundred people went on the tour this year, which featured eight different decorated homes in Downtown Woodstock, Towne Lake Hills North and BridgeMill. The charities that will benefit from the event include: Papa’s Pantry, Goshen Valley Boy’s Ranch, MUST Ministries, B.E.A.T.S, CASA, Never Alone, Forever Fed, Christmas Angels, Meals on Wheels, Reinhardt University and Georgia Canines for Independence.

The JSL would like to offer a special thank you to all the wonderful home owners, designers, volunteers, tour goers and this year’s sponsors, who all made this tour possible and a huge success! This year’s tour sponsors included: Maxsell Realty and Woodstock Downtown Condos. House Sponsors were My Community Monthly magazines, AroundAbout Local Media, Inc, and Airtran Airways. Platinum Sponsors were House and Garden Boutique, Inc, Towne Lake Eye Associates, Pearle Vision, and Fun Finds and Designs. Gold Sponsors were Bambu Salon and Spa, Chick-fil-A, Progressive Audiology Center, Inc, RainAway Deck Drain Systems, and Ribley Family Chiropractic. Silver Sponsors included Baird Family Dentistry, Burns & Speights Law Firm, East of Main, Elarbee Thompson, Sapp & Wilson, LLP., Freight Kitchen & Tap, Keller Williams-3D Realty Team, Law Office of Barbara K. Nye P.C., Main Street Nail Studio, PURE Taqueria, Salon and Spa Venessa, Send Out Cards-Beth Jolley, and Uptown Hair. Benefactors were Ember Hot Yoga, Indigo Studios, Holly Springs Jewelers, Izumi Asian Bistro, Kathleen A. Higgins, Sooji Nail & Day Spa, Red Brick Brewing and Sandy Watkins Photography. Friends of the League included Penny Bag Emporium, Chicago’s, Jon and Heather Burt, Brian and Kay Durst, Derek and Dianna Hacker, Carlos Fernando Figueroa Millan, Frank and Susan Cannizzaro, Mike and Mandy Kirn and Mike and Linda Glazebrook. 44 My West Canton | december 2011

www.footprintspublishing.com 45

THEImpulse ARTISTIC by Dr. Mike Litrel, MD As an art student at the University of Michigan, my wife (then girlfriend) Ann would sometimes sketch nudes. As a nineteen year old, I thought a roomful of art students staring at a naked person sounded suspect. Whenever male models came up in conversation, jealousy gripped my teenage heart. Ann laughingly maintained she thought most of the male models were gay. I never believed her. All I knew was that my girlfriend was spending hours a day staring at naked men and had the nerve to call the record of her lewd observations “art.” But I never said a disparaging word. Our relationship was in its early stages, and I wanted Ann to think I was an open minded, sophisticated guy who understood the artistic impulse. But other impulses I understood better. Recently, Ann joined a group of artists in a weekly gathering at her studio in downtown Woodstock. The Wednesday night sessions are called “Open Figure Drawing,” but it’s really just three hours of drawing naked people. Ann couldn’t disguise her happiness with the opportunity. I was less enthusiastic. I guess my beloved didn’t get to see enough naked, homosexual men in college to suit her fancy. Pride prevented me from voicing my objections. But the morning after Ann’s first nude “model” session, I went downstairs and with elaborate nonchalance leafed through her sketchbook. I was pleasantly surprised. There were three tasteful pastels depicting a mildly overweight woman resting with her head propped on a pillow. As I joined my family for breakfast I could feel the smile on my face. I was proud of my wife, the wonderful artist. The second month when I scanned Ann’s sketchbook, I found lovely pencil renderings of a middle aged woman sitting on a chair, with an expression of tranquility on her face. I stared at the image for a long moment. This was good art. I guess I was wrong about the whole nude model thing. But another month went by. This time when I perused Ann’s drawings, all my suspicions were confirmed. The images were disgusting. I could no longer keep my mouth shut. “What’s your deal?” I asked Ann, brandishing her sketchbook as she was making breakfast. “You and your friends spend 46 My West Canton | december 2011

the evening staring at some naked guy and have the nerve to call it art?” I glared at her for a long moment. “I am very disappointed in you,” I pronounced, and I walked away. I could hear Ann laughing from the other room. I was smiling too, but I wasn’t completely sure I was kidding.

Dr. Litrel practices with his fellow OB/ GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. Dr. Litrel lives in Woodstock with his wife Ann and their two sons, Tyler and Joseph. E-mail Dr. Litrel at www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

Fifteen minutes later over breakfast, Ann had a question for me. “As a gynecologist, don’t you see a hundred women every single week?” One thing had nothing to do with the other. This was an obvious attempt to muddy the issue. What nerve, drawing a comparison between the honorable profession of medicine and a questionable evening spent in the name of “Art” staring at some guy’s whatchamacallit. Breakfast that morning was quiet. I read the newspaper, but inside I think I was a little disconcerted. Ann had a smile on her face. I couldn’t help but think she must have really enjoyed her “art session” last night. This little pang of jealousy came as a bit of a surprise to me. Over the years, patients have blessed me generously with their trust, sometimes sharing stories of heartbreak or infidelity. The pains of life can be overwhelming, with the agony of betrayal among the worst. When it comes, it washes over us like a tsunami, revealing a question lodged in the bedrock of our hearts: Am I worthy of Love? In the grand scheme of things, there are higher impulses in life than just sexuality. Health and well-being are not just about the body and its desires; more importantly they are about the soul and what the soul needs. When we are true to ourselves — to our higher purpose — our lives are generally happy. God’s Love, that eternal wellspring, is always available, and unlike human love, never forsakes us. So with that in mind it’s perfectly fine with me if Ann feels compelled to sometimes sketch naked men in her studio. I guess.

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www.footprintspublishing.com 47

FUN ISN’T ONLY

For the Summer by Charles R. Cooley, M.D. Around the holidays, people have extended time off work, kids are out of school and for some, winter vacations are scheduled. Winter cold and snow provide a number of opportunities to get outside and participate in activities such as skiing, sledding and snowmobiling. However, without proper protection, cold weather-related injuries can occur. This is especially true if there are high winds or if clothing is wet. In general, it is the temperature and the duration of exposure that play a role in determining the extent and severity of cold-related injuries. Frostbite is one such cold-related injury that can occur in extreme conditions. Frostbite occurs when there is freezing of an affected area, usually affecting the hands, feet, nose or ears. Injury results from decreased blood flow and reduced heat delivery to body tissues. Anyone can develop frostbite but the young and the elderly are especially prone to injury. In the young, the small size of their extremities and their limited mobility makes them more likely to be affected while in the elderly, poor circulation and limited mobility increase their susceptibility. Individuals who work outdoors, the homeless, and those who engage in outdoor activities, even hunting, are also at an increased risk. Alcohol and illicit drug use make it more likely to develop frostbite because these people may not sense that they are in danger. Also, certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and circulatory problems can also play a part. The symptoms of frostbite may present as burning, numbness, tingling or itching in the affected areas. Depending on the extent and time of injury, the affected area may appear pale, red, bluish/gray or black with the presence of clear or purplish colored blisters. In deep frostbite, there is an initial decrease in sensation that is eventually completely lost. Everyone should be aware of factors that can contribute to frostbite such as extreme cold, wet clothes, high winds, and poor circulation. There are some common sense things that you can do to help prevent frostbite: • Dress for the weather. Wear wind-proof, water-resistant, many-layered clothing. • Cover your head, face, nose and ears at all times. • If you expect to be exposed to cold weather for a long 48 My West Canton | december 2011

period of time, do not drink alcohol or smoke. • If possible, move indoors to a warmer environment. Severe frostbite requires immediate medical attention. However, only a doctor can determine the severity of the injury. If you can’t get to a medical facility promptly, here are some things that you can do: • Move into a warmer environment and remove wet clothing. • Re-warm the affected area. Soak in warm, not hot, water for 20 to 30 minutes. • Apply dry, sterile dressings to the frostbitten areas. Put dressings between frostbitten fingers or toes to keep them separated. • Do not rub or massage the affected area as this will cause further damage. • Never use direct heat such as a heating pad or hair dryer to warm the affected area. • Do not pop blisters that appear. Doing so can cause infection. • Get medical attention as soon as possible. Information obtained from www.MedicineNet.com, www.kidshealth.org, and www. Emedicinehealth.com.

This information provided by Charles R. Cooley, of M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine, located in the Riverstone Medical Complex. For more information about frostbite, please call 770-720-7000 or visit their office at 720 Transit Avenue in Canton, next to Cracker Barrel. No appointment is necessary. They are open every day from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

THE GREAT Pretender With this country still recovering from the aftermath of the recession, I have seen the medical consequences of this financial disaster. Individuals of most ages are highly stressed. They can’t eat what they may prefer and might not be able to keep their membership at the gym. People are consumed with work and worry. For the past couple years I have made it a point to pry because one particular condition may masquerade around as other things in hopes of not being caught… Depression. Everybody is aware of the obvious signs of this condition: a depressed mood, thoughts of worthlessness and death, and irregular sleep and eating habits. But there are also subtle, more covert symptoms that are only found if asked about in depth. These include low energy, poor concentration, psychomotor retardation or agitation, and a gradual loss of interest in activities — especially those that would bring pleasure to the person. There is also a genetic predisposition — the problem is that mood disorder was taboo, so treatment was rarely sought. Instead, those affected would hurt themselves by abusing alcohol and drugs or hurt others

by Dr. Monika Yadav

with their edgy behavior. I hope as time goes on these misconceptions fade. We now have a better understanding of what causes depression. Neurohormones, such as dopamine, serotonin Dr. Monika Yadav is an Internist with and norepinephrine that Internal Medicine Associates who play a role in making us practices in Holly Spring and Jasper. feel happy are broken down faster in those suffering from depression. Medicines prohibit this from occurring. People have no qualms in telling their friends about taking a pill for blood pressure or diabetes, yet when it comes to a pill for depression… Living with untreated depression is like living with a handicap. And the sooner we realize this fact, the faster the quality of millions of lives will be improved.

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PLASTICITY

The Ability to Change the Brain

Blepharitis

Second in a series of “The Top 10 Reasons for Red Eye”

by LaCretia Munroe, MS, DC Once upon a time, not so Dr. LaCretia Munroe specializes in long ago, people thought that sports chiropractic, functional at birth all of the cells of the neurology, and metabolic solutions. Providing exceptional care for difficult brain were given to you by the cases. Call the office at (770) 720time you were born. Once 0865 or visit www.ahealthybody.com. you were born, any brain cells that died meant that you had less to work with. Scientists have now shown that is not true. The ability to change the brain is called plasticity. Plasticity is the ability for the brain to grow new brain cells and new pathways within the brain. People with small strokes can rebuild new pathways around the damaged area. Children with developmental delays can create stronger pathways diminishing the disability they show to the world. It is like building a new road and it has given hope to so many people who thought that they had to live with their limitations. Brain based therapy is a therapy that helps grow the brain pathways and create plasticity. The improvements in brain function are based on the premise that our higher brain functions – the “cortical functions” such as language, cognitive skills, socialization – rely and depend upon how well sensory input is received and processed as it enters the central nervous system and is relayed to the upper brain. Brain based therapy improves processing at both the sub-cortical and cortical levels. Brain based therapy has a global effect on the brain and central nervous system, influencing the following systems: balance, visual, auditory, motor, coordination, behavior and emotional regulation. As a result, it is successfully implemented for a wide variety of conditions: • Learning difficulties such as reading, spelling, math, auditory processing and attention; • Sensory processing and integration; • Stress, sleep, emotional regulation and mood problems; • Those with autism and neuro-developmental difficulties.

Based on the concept of neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to change with specific and repeated stimulation – brain based programs strengthen and build new neural pathways to allow for more efficient processing of sensory information. As these neurological connections grow stronger, skills related to learning, attention, language and self-confidence also tend to improve. Brain based therapy is not a cookie cutter approach to therapy. It fits individual needs based on what is found in the exam. Brain based therapy effects the whole brain but you can target one area with specific exercises. As a result, it is successfully implemented for a wide variety of conditions. 50 My West Canton | december 2011

by Dr. Edward J. Furey Blepharitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the eyelid. Although not considered a serious condition, it can cause soreness and if not treated, can result in more complicated conditions of the eye. Some signs and symptoms that are associated with the chronic inflammation can be:

Dr. Edward J. Furey specializes in primary eye care, glaucoma, low vision, geriatrics and is the Center Director of BridgeMill Eyecare. Located at 1409 Sixes Rd. www.bridgemilleyecare.com. (770) 852-2733.

• Redness of the eyelids. • Flaking of skin on the lids. • Crusting at the lid margins; this is generally worse on waking. • Cysts at the lid margin (hordeolum). • Red eye. • Debris in the tear film, seen under magnification by your eye doctor. • Gritty sensation of the eye. • Reduced vision.

Common signs and symptoms of blepharitis also include itching, irritation and burning as well as a foreign body sensation. Types of blepharitis are as follows: Staphyloccal blepharitis patients frequently exhibit mild sticking together of the lids, thickened lid margins, and missing and misdirected eyelashes. Seborrheic blepharitis appears as greasy flakes or scales around the base of eyelashes and a mild redness of the eyelids. Ulcerative blepharitis is characterized by matted, hard crusts around the eyelashes that when removed, leave small sores that ooze and bleed. There may also be a loss of eyelashes, distortion of the front edges of the eyelids and chronic tearing. In severe cases, the cornea, the transparent front covering of the eyeball, may also become inflamed. Meibomian blepharitis is evident by blockage of the oil glands in the eyelids, poor quality of tears, and redness of the lining of the eyelids. Types of Treatments for Blepharitis: • Lid cleaning with over-the-counter scrubs or simply using Baby Shampoo diluted with water • Lubricants which help maintain proper tear flow thus reducing dryness to the lid • Antibiotic creams • Antibiotic tablets • Steroid creams

continued on page 70

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MERRY CHRISTMAS JEREMY A Dental Christmas Story

by Dr. Scott R. Harden “Doctor, I was wondering if there is any better way for me to clean my front teeth since they’re crowded and have always been a problem for me?” This was a simple enough question, but it opened an amazing window of communication that changed Jeremy’s life forever more. The truth was that Jeremy had problems far more complex than his crowded teeth. He had faced this dreadful fact his entire life and simply learned to ignore it over time.

to provide him the opportunity of corrective dental treatment that would conclude with necessary jaw surgery around 18 years old. He simply tolerated his problem and accepted that his condition would last the rest of his life. In fact, Jeremy emphatically decided he would not have jaw surgery because of the financial burden it would put on his parents. Jeremy’s luck was about to change with a wonderful unforeseen opportunity that resounds the essence of Christmas and that benevolent feeling of good cheer that we all wish for one another. Jeremy, at age 47, would finally find a solution to the problem that afflicted him for many years — all because of a simple question about how to better clean his front teeth.

Dr. Scott Harden is a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry and has served the Towne Lake area for over 21 years. He is a Dental Advisor for two nationally renowned dental research companies. Office: (770) 926-0000. Website: FountainViewSmiles.com.

This story extends back to a time in a little boy’s life that was complete with fun, freedom and all the wonderful little elements of life that make a childhood magical. It is a delightful age of innocence and the only dreadful things Jeremy faced was bedtime and vegetables. His carefree lifestyle at this tender age was still devoid of any judgment from his playmates regarding his physical appearance. Frankly, no one cared how Jeremy looked, and rightfully so, because he still looked normal by most standards; he simply had not grown a lot yet. This fun-loving period of Jeremy’s life, as he recounts, was supplanted by that vulnerable age of hurtful comments and name-calling associated with adolescence. Jeremy had started to grow by now and he, along with everyone else, was aware that his jaws grew unevenly and his lower jaw jutted out too far. A difficult time faced Jeremy from then on because he would always be self-conscious and constantly reminded of his different appearance every time he looked in the mirror. “Why can’t I just look like everyone else?” he asked himself time and time again. Jeremy had to endure elementary, junior high and high schools with constant ridicule and a lowered sense of selfesteem. Every aspect of his life was more challenging because of his personal appearance. He found trouble making friends, talking to girls and participating in sports. Jeremy found the most enjoyment in more solitary activities pursuing the drums and playing video games. As Jeremy grew up, his parents did not have the financial means

52 My West Canton | december 2011

The dentist quickly deduced Jeremy was not a willing candidate for surgery. His crooked top and bottom front teeth combined with a very advanced lower jaw provided him a very abnormal appearance that he concealed with his hand when he spoke, a habit he developed as a child. Understanding the limitations of no surgery set by the patient, the dentist asked a simple question in return, “Has anyone offered you the idea of correcting your front teeth with braces in combination with a smile makeover involving crowns?” There was a very long pause that was met with a look in Jeremy’s eyes that could only compare to seeing an oasis in the middle of the dessert. He was literally speechless. After digesting this concept Jeremy asked, “Do you mean I could have a normal smile for once in my life?” The notion nearly brought tears to his eyes. The dentist and Jeremy spoke at length about how braces alone could not deliver his needed result and would require creative treatment that would involve crowning his front teeth to ultimately provide him function and a smile that would be more than he could have ever hoped. The process took place in carefully designed stages that started with the dentist, orthodontist and patient agreeing on what they all wanted to achieve. The braces were put on Jeremy’s teeth and the magic began. The crowns would complete his treatment and were carefully planned with tooth wax-up models to show a desired outcome before actually beginning treatment. The wax-up models of his teeth were effective in providing the appearance that Jeremy always dreamed of and was actively involved in to ensure it met his expectations. The final stage of placing the crowns on his front teeth created the ideal length, contours and whiteness that unveiled the amazing look he was certain he would never have. His smile was transformed just prior to the holidays and was the best gift he had ever received. His hand still instinctively went in front of this face but he quickly realized his radiant smile was something to show off and not cover up. The embrace he gave his dentist was the best thank you ever. Jeremy is a man who resolved all the indifferences he experienced as a boy with his newfound smile. Merry Christmas Jeremy.

DIABETES –

Are You At Risk? By Lisa Graham, RN, BSN, CDE Northside Hospital Diabetes Education Program

About 25.8 million Americans have diabetes. You don’t have to be overweight, have a genetic predisposition or be a certain age to get the disease. In fact, more than 6 million people have the disease and don’t even realize it because some of the symptoms may not seem threatening – unusual thirst, extreme hunger, increased fatigue and irritability. However, left untreated, diabetes can cause a number of problems including heart disease (high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol), stroke, blindness, kidney failure, circulatory problems and even death. Fortunately, diabetes is preventable and, by knowing your risk and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can help prevent or delay the onset of the diabetes. Factors You Can Control • Excess Weight. Being obese or carrying excess body fat also makes your heart work harder and raises your blood pressure and total cholesterol. Belly fat is especially harmful as it releases hormones that decrease your body’s ability to utilize insulin effectively to regulate blood glucose levels. • Inactivity. Exercising on a regular basis can help you lose weight and lower your cholesterol. It also helps your body use the insulin that it makes, which helps your body to control your blood sugar better. • Healthy Diet. Eating a well balanced diet and controlling your portion sizes can help prevent diabetes. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains have been proven to help control weight and decrease the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Factors You Can’t Control • Age. People over the age of 45 are more likely to have diabetes than those younger and should have their blood

glucose levels checked every three years. • Heredity. People with a close family history of diabetes – such as a sibling or parent – are more likely to develop diabetes. • Race. It is more prevalent in people of African American, Mexican American, Pacific Islander and American-Indian decent. • Gestational Diabetes. Having had gestational diabetes or having had a baby weighing more than 9 pounds at birth also increases your risk. If you were never screened for gestational diabetes but gave birth to a large infant, you may have had this temporary form of insulin intolerance without ever knowing it. Protect Your Health Focus on prevention. If you have any of the risk factors associated with diabetes or your blood sugar levels are creeping up, talk to your doctor about enrolling in a diabetes education program.

Northside Hospital offers an accredited Diabetes Education Program that helps patients learn about diabetes and how to adapt a self-care plan to fit their lifestyle. Comprehensive Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes classes, as well as classes that focus on the prevention of Type 2 diabetes, are available. All classes are taught by registered dietitians, nurses, exercise physiologists, behavior therapists and certified diabetes educators. For more information and class availability, call (678) 493-1501 for locations in Cherokee.

Send us your Community, School & sports News

to be featured in an upcoming issue! EMAIL: editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com 54 My West Canton | december 2011

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THEMatthew WISE2:1-12 MEN

A Commentary by Norman R. Hunt

When we study the birth of our Lord, Matthew wants us to understand how the world received Him when He came. So in chapter 2 you really have a contrast. You will see how the Lord Jesus was a victim of hatred at home and yet honor from afar. He was rejected by His own people, and yet these verses indicate to us that He was received by the world at large. That is the reason why Matthew tells us the fascinating account of the coming of the wise men to worship Jesus when He was born. Matthew wants us to understand that Jesus was not merely the Savior for the Hebrew people, but that Jesus Christ is intended to be the Savior of the world. That is why John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son.” Now when you look at the birth of the Lord Jesus from the viewpoint of the wise men, we are reminded of Proverbs 13:20. The Bible says, “He that follows wise men shall be wise.” So you see, if you and I will learn from the wise men today,

56 My West Canton | december 2011

we will learn to be wise as they were because they came seeking the one who was born the Savior of the world. Come celebrate the birth of our Savior at Hopewell this Holiday Season! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Rev. Norman R. Hunt is the Pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church. www.hopewellbaptist.com.

Back to Bethlehem December 3 — 11, 7 — 9 PM

Christmas Services at Hopewell Baptist December 24th at 2 & 4 PM December 25th at 10 AM

Sometimes laughter lasts happily ever after. Come to a place whe re e le phants fly, te acups s pin a nd fair ytale s re ally d o come true — Walt Dis ney Wo rld ® R e s or t. H e re , your family will cre ate me morie s that will las t a life time —mag ica l mome nts you’ll hold in your he ar t, happily eve r a ft er. W he the r it’s your firs t Dis ney e xpe rie nce , or yo ur one hund re d and firs t, why wait a mome nt longer t o bring your family? T he re ’s a magical Dis ney moment waiting for you right now!

©Disney GS2011-4578

To book your next magical Disney vacation, contact Pixie Vacations today.

Call Lisa at 678-815-1584 or email her at Lisa@pixievacations.com.

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YOU GET

What You Pay For by Michael Buckner I’ve noticed in every facet of Michael Buckner is the owner of Audio life, there is no getting around Intersection located at 631 E. Main the price tag associated with Street, Canton. For more information quality. Whether you’re on any of his monthly columns, for buying a new kitchen knife or a questions or to set up an appointment, new car, it always winds up that call (770) 479-1000. spending less ends up costing more in the long run. Well I am here to tell you, electronics are no exception. There are some major differences between the “good stuff,” and the stuff you’ll see at a garage sale a year later for 10 percent of its original value. Here are some pointers on what to look for when trying to ensure a good deal is exactly that. When purchasing a TV, 1080p hardly means squat. What you want to look for is a high contrast ratio — 1,000,000 to 1 or higher is acceptable — 3,000,000 to 1 is more like it. You can save a ton of cash by choosing a plasma instead of an LCD. This is one of the only areas where the more expensive LCD’s aren’t necessarily better. If you insist on LED or LCD, make sure it has the 240hz refresh rate. This makes a huge difference in the picture, especially on sports. Everyone thought I was crazy for spending $2900 on a 50” Plasma TV, but six years later it still has an amazing picture and shows no sign of wear at all. FYI, any TV in the Panasonic lineup gets my vote right now as the best stuff out there for the money. For surround sound receivers, my first piece of advice is to ignore power ratings! Ninety percent of the time, this is a dishonest figure. Instead, pick it up. The more they weigh, the better they’re going to sound. Sounds stupid, but I challenge anyone to prove me wrong. Lately, the innovation here has been a network connection. This 2-way communication brings things like Pandora, Rhapsody and 20,000 local radio stations from anywhere in the world. It also allows the volume to be operated from any computer or iPhone in the house. Yamaha gets my current vote as the best sounding and performing receivers of 2011. When it comes to speakers, it can be more difficult to discern the great from the junk. Just like receivers, ignore the power ratings, and pick it up. Chances are, the heavier, the better. Also, look for a polypropylene (plastic) cone and rubber surround. This will ensure that the speaker is durable. If it’s a box speaker, don’t buy it if it doesn’t have a removable front grill. If it’s an in-wall speaker, look for a lifetime warranty. After much research, Klipsch is the brand that I see as the best bang for your buck.

continued on page 70

58 My West Canton | december 2011

The Holidays At Disney

by Lisa Griswold There is nothing like visiting Disney during the holidays. They turn Walt Disney World into....well....an ultra magical place. You can see The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lisa@PixieVacations.com or call Lights on the Streets (678) 815-1584. of America at Disney’s Survey: Do you have a tip or trick that Hollywood Studios theme you use when going to Walt Disney World? Send your answer to Survey@ park. This is a display of PixieVacations.com. millions of lights decorating the buildings top to bottom, wreaths, trees, angels and, of course, Santa and his reindeer. Each evening during the display you can even expect snow! There are also 40 hidden Mickeys; try to find them all! If you visit the many countries of the World Showcase in Epcot, you’ll find wonderful holiday decorations. You’ll also find each country has storytellers out to share the traditions of their particular country — you’ll even see that the countries have their own versions of Santa. Also in Epcot, the Candlelight Processional tells the classic tale of Christmas. This story is delivered by celebrity guests like Isabella Rossellini, Neil Patrick Harris, Trace Adkins, and Susan Lucci, to name a few. They are accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and full choir. You’ll have to order tickets in advance, and get there early. Lines form hours ahead of time, and not everyone is guaranteed a seat for the performance. The Magic Kingdom offers a specially ticketed event called Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It is held on certain nights, after regular park hours. This evening features the special Once Upon a Christmastime Parade (runs twice nightly), a Holiday Wishes Fireworks display, hot cocoa and cookies, carolers, and even snow on Main Street! In the Animal Kingdom, the Jammin’ Jungle Parade gets a holiday make-over. You’ll also find your favorite characters dressed for the holidays. Downtown Disney is all decorated with warm touches of Christmas too. You’ll see holiday carolers and take part in sing-alongs. continued on page 70

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Have You ever met One of Caleb’s Kids?

by Drs. Simone & Greg Nutt The holiday season has many Simone and Greg Nutt are the coof us reflecting on the truly owners of Riverstone Animal Hospital. important things in life we so If you have any questions, feel free to often neglect. As I go through visit them at their new facility or call (770) 479-7141. my workday caring for pets, I am again humbled by how well our dogs seem to understand what love, loyalty and selfless giving are all about. We recently had the privilege to celebrate this unique bond with a young man named Israel and his service dog Riley. Israel has cerebral palsy and seizures. As I spoke with his mom, Lori, about the impact Riley has made on Israel, she shared the following: “I remember when I first made the decision to obtain a service dog for Israel (Is). My thought was that this dog would aid him with his balance, mobility, in seizure response, serve as a visual aid and would be a great companion for Is during stressful times. Riley has far exceeded my expectations. Riley is not only Israel’s With Riley’s assistance, Is can service dog but also his best now walk through stores and busy friend! malls, into restaurants, across parking areas, up and down flights of stairs and in many other situations without having to hold my hand. Riley has given him an independence that no one else could. I still use a monitor in Is’ room to monitor medical issues and one of my favorite things is listening to Is talk to Riley at night. It is the sweetest thing when Is “reads” Riley a book or when he ask Riley’s opinion about something and then answers for him. I also love to hear him telling Riley all about his day, good or bad. Is says that Riley is his best friend and I am very thankful that they have that unconditional love. One of the greatest things Riley has given Israel has been companionship. Initially, this was toward the end of my list of expectations regarding Riley’s work with Is, but very quickly it became apparent that this would be one of the greatest aspects of Is having Riley. Israel has faced many stressful events and Riley has been right with him through them all. He has provided comfort when no one else could and he provides acceptance in everything about Is. Thankfully, all Riley seems to see is his boy. Whether Is is happy, sad, angry, hurting, fearful, upset or continued on page 70 60 My West Canton | december 2011

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Who Hasn’t Shopped At a Dollar Store?

by Carole May If you are nodding you head yes, then please take me out to lunch; obviously you can afford it! Of course, if I am assuming too much, I will apologize. Just send me your name and address, and I’ll do my best with the rest! Now let me share with you who I did see Carole May is a freelance writer for My West Canton Monthly. Email her at shopping in there that surprised editor@mywestcantonmonthly.com. me. It was my allergist! (with his son) browsing up and down Note: The photo of Carole May in the November issue is an aged the aisles of this store looking computerized image of what she may for a knockoff toy. This scene look like 60 years into the future. made me short of breath, not the dust in the air. I thought to myself, “If he shops here, where do the people who flip burgers for a living shop? Could they be patronizing its cousin, Dollar Grocery, and how much lower in price could they be?” As for me, well, by now you know its honesty! Carole May’s finger prints (along with a nation of others) will most likely be detected on those birthday/holiday decorations, paper goods and plastic dinnerware for the kiddie’s parties. Then there is also a chance you might find something that would tickle your fancy. It could be an imitation “Nancy.” They have greeting cards two for a dollar, wrapping paper and neon colored bows. I can only imagine who is producing those. My suggestion is to be careful with the gift you want to cover, or a tear you most likely will discover. As for purchasing groceries, “I want to make this perfectly clear” (ala Nixon) I do not purchase anything edible here. When the grandchildren visit our home and they tire of whatever games or crafts they are doing, it is off to the dollar store we go. Upon arriving, the girls will automatically ignore the bins of flip flops located by the front door. They found out the hard way why those rubber slip-ons cost a dollar when they flipped and flopped on the pavement. However, there is no stopping them (in sneakers) as they walk through the door looking at all those items similar to the ones won at carnivals or purchased from vendors on the boardwalk of Ocean City, New Jersey! Follow me as I follow them up and down the aisles inspecting these so-called (imitation) treasures that might satiate their curiosity. In an instant a sword, crown or a slimy creature can turn into an animated performance. So if there is anyone out there who hasn’t shopped at a dollar store, I say cross over the borders (with your pesos, lira, franks or general use of acceptance) and join the “United Nations” of customers searching for that special bargain. It’s not “Entertainment Tonight,” it just entertainment! 62 My West Canton | december 2011

Do you have Room to Expand? by Dan Jape A few weeks ago I received a letter from the Cherokee County water department informing me they were installing a back flow preventer on our home and letting us know of a need to have a thermal expansion tank installed Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable in our plumbing system to prevent possible damage to our Heating and Air. You may contact him at (770) 594-9096 or visit him online home. All cities and counties at www.reliableair.com. have installed or are installing back flow preventers to stop the possible contamination of the water supply in homes. A back flow preventer is a one way valve installed at the connection of your home’s water supply and it makes the home a closed system that has no room for expansion which occurs when water is heated. A thermal expansion tank is required to stop the possibility of an over pressure situation that can damage the water heater and the temperature and pressure relief valve in your home. The letter from the county gave us 30 days to have an expansion tank installed before the backflow valve is installed in our subdivision. Cherokee County is currently putting the backflow valves in all homes and one should check with the water department to see when they are scheduled to do your home. Cobb and Fulton counties have already installed these valves in past years and if you live in these areas, you should already have a thermal expansion tank in your home. If you do not, you should have one installed immediately, as the lack of one can cause damage to the water heater or a collapse of the flue of a water heater, which can be very serious. Until recently, I thought the thermal expansion tank was an item that would last for years with no maintenance required from the homeowner, and once you had one, you were set. But I found out I was wrong. I was called to a home last week to give a customer a price on a new heating system and I was surprised to find the first floor of their home had been severely flooded when their thermal expansion burst and leaked water on their furnace and then filled up their basement while they were away on vacation. They found out the hard way that thermal expansion tanks should be changed every five or six years according to the manufacturers. They are very easy to change once you have one and can be purchased at any home improvement store or hardware store as well as from your plumber. In most homes in Atlanta, a floor drain was not continued on page 70

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ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS

United States Government: President Barack Obama (D) (202) 456-1414 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue fax: (202) 456-2461 Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners www.cherokeega.com 1130 Bluffs Parkway (678) 493-6000 Canton, GA 30114 fax: (678) 493-6001 Commissioners: Buzz Ahrens (R), Chairperson e-mail: lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Senate Russell Courtyard-2 GA: (770) 763-9090 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov

Harry Johnston (R), Post 1 e-mail: hjohnston@cherokeega.com

Senator Johnny Isakson (R) (202) 224-3643 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: (770) 661-0999 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 fax: (770) 661-0768 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov

Jim Hubbard (R), Post 2 e-mail: jhubbard@cherokeega.com

Karen Bosch (R), Post 3 e-mail: kbosch@cherokeega.com

Jason A. Nelms (R), Post 4 e-mail: jnelms@cherokeega.com

Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 Website: http://tom.house.gov

(202) 225-4501 GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570

Cherokee County Board of Education:

Rep. John Linder (R), District 7 (202) 225-4272 90 North Street, Suite 360 GA: (770) 232-3005 Canton, GA 30114-2724 fax: (770) 232-2909 Website: www.linder.house.gov

Mike Chapman (R), Post 2 (Chair) e-mail: mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us

State Government:

Governor Nathan Deal (R) 203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.ga.gov.com

(404) 656-1776 fax: (404) 657-7332

State Senator Jack Murphy (R) (D-27) (770) 887-1960 304-B Coverdell Legislative Bldg. fax: (770) 205-0602 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov

State Rep. Calvin Hill (R) (D-21) local: (678) 493-7257 511 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. business: (404) 656-0129 Atlanta, GA 30334 fax: (770) 345-2394 e-mail: chill@legis.state.ga.us

State Rep. Sean Jerguson (R) (D-22) 607 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: sean.jerguson@house.ga.gov

(770) 345-6256

(770) 704-4398, x4372

(404) 462-4950

Janet Read (R), Post 4 e-mail: janet.read@cherokee.k12.ga.us

(770) 516-1444

Rick Steiner (R), Post 5 e-mail: rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

(770) 704-4398, x4370

Rob Usher, Post 6 e-mail: rob.usher@cherokee.k12.ga.us

(770) 928-0341

Kim Cochran (R), Post 7 e-mail: kimcochran@gmail.com

(678) 983-9644

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby 90 North Street, Suite 310 Canton, GA 30114

(404) 362-1600

Cherokee County School System

Cherokee County Courts: Superior Court: Chief Judge Frank C. Mills, III Judge N. Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea

(678) 493-6270 (678) 493-6260 (678) 493-6240

State Court: Chief Judge Clyde J. Gober, Jr. Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

(678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6490 (678) 493-6480

Juvenile/Family Court: Judge John B. Sumner Judge Tony Baker

(678) 493-6250 (678) 493-6280

(678) 493-6431

(678) 493-6160

Magistrate Court: Chief Judge James Drane III

Clerk of the Court: Patty Baker

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www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Michael Geist, Post 3 e-mail: michael.geist@cherokee.k12.ga.us

(404) 656-0287

State Rep. Mark Hamilton (R) (D-23) Email: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov

Probate Court: Judge Keith Wood

Robert Wofford, Post 1 e-mail: robert.wofford@cherokee.k12.ga.us

(678) 493-6511

Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo (770) 479-1871 P.O. Box 769 fax: (770) 479-1236 110 Academy St. Canton, GA 30114 Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Cherokee County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office

Sheriff Roger Garrison (R) (678) 493-4100 498 Chattin Drive fax: (678) 493-4228 Canton, GA 30115 Website: www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

Sonya Little (R) (678) 493-6400 2780 Marietta Highway fax: (678) 493-6420 Canton, GA 30114 e-mail: slittle@cherokeega.com

City of Canton

www.canton-georgia.com Mayor Gene Hobgood

(770) 704-1500

City of Waleska

www.cityofwaleska.com Mayor Doris Ann Jones

(770) 479-2912

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CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Business Organizations

American Business Women’s Association: (678) 493-3618, www.abwa.org Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club: (770) 345-1750 Cherokee Area Business Connection: (770) 345-8687 Cherokee Business & Professional Women: (770) 345-1751 Cherokee Toastmasters: (770) 712-4077 www.CherokeeToastmasters.com NEW Network of Entrepreneurial Women: (678) 595-0344 PowerCore: (404) 572-1278 Towne Lake Business Association: (770) 720-6558, www.tlba.org Woodstock Business Networking Group: (770) 591-7101

Charitable & Support Organizations

AA Meetings: Canton First United Methodist: (770) 479-6961 AARP Organization: Canton Chapter: (770) 479-5460 Adoptees and Birthmothers Support: (770) 693-1907 Adoption/Infertility Support Group: (678) 445-3131 Alzheimer/Dementia Support Group: (770) 926-0119 American Heart Assoc. — Cherokee Division: (678) 385-2013 Arts Alliance of Georgia: (678) 754-8482 Bethany Place: (770) 479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org Breast Cancer Support Group, Drop-In: (404) 843-1880 Canton Al-Anon: (770) 516-3502 CASA for Children, Inc.: Deidre Hollands, (770) 345-3274 www.casacherokee.org Cherokee Autism Support Group: Heidi — HCF67@comcast.net or Renee — MRJPERRELLI@yahoo.com Cherokee Child Advocacy Council: (770) 592-9779 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Cherokee Co. Aspergers Syndrome Support Group: www.CCAspies.org Cherokee Co. Family Child Care Assoc.: Brenda Bowen, (770) 926-8055 Cherokee Co. Foster & Adoptive Parent Association of GA: (770) 378-0759 www.fosteroradopt.org Cherokee Co. Habitat for Humanity: (770) 345-1879 Cherokee Co. Senior Services: (770) 345-5312 Cherokee Co. Service League: (770) 704-5991 Cherokee Co. Special Olympics: (770) 517-7101 Cherokee County Family Violence Center: (770) 479-1804 Battered Women Hotline: (770) 479-1703 In Spanish, (770) 720-7050 Cherokee FOCUS: (770) 345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org

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Drug Free Cherokee: Stacy Bailey, (770) 345-5483 www.drugfreecherokee.org Emotions Anonymous: Tonya M. (678) 648-9953 Georgia Animal Project: (770) 704-PAWS www.theanimalproject.org Grace to the Nations: (404) 819-5520 www.gracetothenations.com Habitat for Humanity North Central GA: (770) 345-1879, www.habitatncg.org Haiti Cheri Harvest Life Ministries: (800) 989-4248, dan@haiticheri.org Hope Center (hope for unplanned pregnancies): (770) 924-0864 www.hopectr.com Hope Center — Baby & More Thrift Store: www.babyandmorethriftstore.com Hospice Advantage: (770) 218-1997 www.hospiceadvantage.com iCOR (helping orphans): (404) 992-8155 www.iCORorphans.com Legacy Ministries International: (770) 924-0826 Meals-on-Wheels: (770) 345-7440 Miracle Mothers: www.miraclemothers.org MOMS Club of Canton (serving Canton, Ball Ground, Waleska and Holly Springs): West: http://momsclubofcantonwest.webs.com MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers: (770) 479-4140 http://groups.yahoo.com/group/waleskamops MUST Ministries: (770) 479-5397 www.mustministries.org Narcotics Anonymous: (770) 720-4032 National Alliance for Mental Illness Family Support Group: (404) 394-1229, www.nami.org North Georgia Angel House, Inc.: www.angelhousega.com Northside Hospital Cherokee Auxiliary: (770) 720-9559 Northwest Atlanta Moms of Multiples: (678) 404-0034, www.NOWAMOM.org Papa’s Pantry: (770) 591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Safe Kids of Georgia in Cherokee County: (678) 493-4343, www.cherokeesafekids.org Salvation Army: 121 Waleska St. (770) 720-4316 Volunteer Aging Council: (770) 345-7515 Young Peoples AA Meeting: (770) 479-2502

Civic Organizations BridgeMill-Sixes Service League: Kathy Fulton (770) 720-0979, www.bssl.org Canton Lions Club:

(678) 224-7878

www.lionsofcanton.org

Canton Noon Day Optimists: Canton Optimist Club:

(678) 454-2370

www.cantonoptimist.com

Canton Rotary Club:

(770) 479-2101

Cherokee County Historical Society:

(770) 345-3288, www.rockbarn.org

Optimist Club of Laurel Canyon:

(678) 493-9135

Pilot Club of Cherokee County:

Lynda Goodwin at (770) 393-1766

Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com

Rotary Club of Cherokee County: (678) 297-0154, glopos@bellsouth.net Rotary Club of Towne Lake:

(770) 926-0105

Sons of the American Revolution:

Cherokee Chapter, (770) 410-0015

btemple1@bellsouth.net The Trail of Tears Association: (770) 704-6338 www.nationaltota.org

United Daughters of the Confederacy, The Helen Plane Chapter 711: helenplane711@gmail.com

Political Organizations Cherokee Co. Board of Elections & Registrations: (770) 479-0407 Cherokee County Democratic Party: (770) 345-3489, www.CherokeeDems.com Cherokee Co. Municipal Planning Commission: (678) 493-6101 Cherokee County Republican Party: (678) 809-1411, www.cherokeecountygop.com Repulican Women of Cherokee County: (678) 520-2236, www.rwccga.com Cherokee County School Board: (770) 479-1871 Cherokee County Teen Republicans: (678) 232-7488, www.cherokeecountytrs.webs.com Cherokee County Young Republicans: (770) 926-9317, deanc@mindspring.com Cherokee/Pickens Libertarian Party: (770) 345-4678, www.lpgeorgia.com/cherokee

Recreation & Hobbies Canton Moose Family Center (Bingo): (770) 479-8300 Christian Authors Guild: www.christianauthorsguild.org Cherokee Amateur Radio Society: (770) 928-8590, www.cherokee-ares.org/ccars Cherokee Amateur Radio Emergency Services (SKYWARN Storm Spotters): (770) 928-8590 www.cherokee-ares.org Cherokee Community Chorale: (678) 439-8625 www.cherokeecommunitychorale.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners: (770) 479-0418 Cherokee County Saddle Club: (770) 757-2282 www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee County Social Adventures Group: www.TCCSAG.org Cherokee Fencing Club: Andy McCann, (678) 494-9750 www.cherokeefencingclub.com Cherokee Hiking Club: (770) 235-3655 hiking_fred@hotmail.com Cherokee MOTS (Mom’s of Tots): (770) 272-5388 www.meetup.com/cherokee-mots Cherokee Music Teachers Association: (770) 720-3987, www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee New Horizons Band (CNHB): (770) 479-4917, cnhbcontact@yahoo.com Cherokee Photography Club: www.cherokeephotographyclub.com Cherokee Running Club: (770) 928-4239 (770) 926-8513 Cherokee Senior Softball Association: www.cssasoftball.com Crossfit Workout of the Day Club: www.crossfitgarage.com Falany Performing Arts Center @ Reinhardt University: (770) 720-5558, www.reinhardt.edu/fpac The Funk Heritage Center Book Club: (770) 720-5969 North Cobb Bass Club: (770) 820-3945 www.northcobbbass.com Sewrifics, American Sewing Guild: (678) 493-3976 Southern O Scalers: Dan Mason, (770) 337-5139

My West Canton Monthly — (770) 720-7497

Cherokee County Government:

www.cherokeega.com Business Licenses (678) 493-6200 Commissioners (678) 493-6000 Clerk of Courts (678) 493-6511 Economic Development (770) 345-0600 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) (678) 493-6077 Environmental Health (770) 479-0444 Extension Office (770) 479-0418 Jury Phone (770) 479-9011 Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) (770) 479-1953 Planning & Zoning (678) 493-6101 Senior Services (770) 345-2675 Tax Assessors/Evaluation (678) 493-6120 Taxes: License Plates/Tags, Property Tax (678) 493-6400 Woodstock Office (770) 924-4099 Renewals Online https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/ Voter Registration (770) 479-0407

Children and Family: Anna Crawford Children’s Center (770) 592-9779 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club (770) 720-7712 Cherokee Family Violence Center (770) 479-1804 Cherokee Focus (770) 345-5483 Child Support Enforcement (770) 720-3581 Department of Family & Children Services (770) 720-3610 Hope Center (770) 924-0864 MUST Cherokee Ministries (770) 479-5397 Papa’s Pantry (770) 591-4730

City of Canton:

City Hall Fire Department Police Information

Driver’s Licenses

www.dds.ga.gov

Georgia State Patrol

(770) 704-1500 (770) 479-7287 (770) 720-4883 (404) 657-9300

(770) 720-6607

(770) 345-7371

Kennestone Hospital Northside Hospital — Cherokee

(770) 793-5000 (770) 720-5100

Health Department Hospitals:

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help lines:

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center Poison Control Center (outside metro Atlanta) Probate Court Information Line Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

Non-Emergency 911

(770) 479-1703 (770) 345-7920 (404) 616-9000 (800) (770) (404) (770)

222-1222 704-2610 250-KIDS 428-2666

(770) 479-3117

Parks and Recreation:

Barnett Park Boling Park BridgeMill Athletic Club Callahan Golf Links Cherokee County Outdoor YMCA Cherokee County Soccer Association Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency

(770) 924-7768 (770) 720-7578 (770) 345-5500 (770) 720-1900 (770) 591-5820 (770) 704-0187 www.csaimpact.com (770) 924-7768 www.crpa.net

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Assoc.: (770) 846-4843 www.cherokeelacrosse.com G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA (770) 345-9622 North Atlanta Soccer Association: (770) 926-4175 michele.fox@nasa-ga.org SCRA Park (770) 926-5672 www.scrabaseball.com Wildlife Action, Inc. (800) 753-2264

Pets:

Georgia Animal Project theanimalproject.org Animal Control (678) 493-6200 Animal Shelter & Pet Adoptions (770) 345-7270 www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA460.html Cherokee County Humane Society (770) 928-5115 www.cchumanesociety.org Emergency Veterinary Clinic (770) 924-3720 Lost Pet Hotline (770) 615-3333 People4Pets (770) 516-7885 www.people4pets.com Second Chance Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Post Office (Canton) Recycling Center Sheriff’s Office

www.usps.com

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

(800) 275-8777 (770) 516-4195 (678) 493-4100

Utilities: Amicalola EMC (706) 253-5200 www.amicalolaemc.com AT&T (888) 757-6500 www.att.com Ball Ground Water (770) 735-2123 www.cityofballground.com BellSouth (404) 780-2355 www.bellsouth.com Canton Water (770) 704-1500 www.canton-georgia.com Charter Communications (888) 438-2427 www.charter.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Authority (770) 479-1813 www.ccwsa.com Cobb EMC (770) 429-2100 www.cobbemc.com Comcast (404) 266-2278 www.comcast.com DirecTV (877) 516-6276 www.directv.com Dish Network (888) 825-2557 www.dishnetwork.com ETC Communications (706) 253-2271 www.northganow.com Gas South (866) 762-6427 www.gas-south.com Georgia Natural Gas (888) 442-7489 www.georgianaturalgas.com Georgia Power (888) 660-5890 www.southernco.com/gapower Scana Energy (877) 467-2262 www.scana.com Waleska Water (770) 479-2912 Windstream (866) 971-WIND www.windstream.com

COMMUNITY INFORMATION

Emergency — 911

Urgent Care Facilities: M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine Northside Cherokee Urgent Care Wellstar Urgent Care

(770) 720-7000 (678) 426-5450 (678) 494-2500

www.footprintspublishing.com 67

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Baptist

Crossroads of Life Baptist Church 2861 Ball Ground Hwy., (770) 479-7638 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.crossroadsoflifebaptist.org

First Baptist Canton Mission Point Campus: 1 Mission Point Sunday Services: 8:15, 9:30 & 11 a.m. East Campus: Creekview H.S. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. (770) 479-5538, www.fbccanton.org

First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Pkwy, (770) 345-5349 Sunday Service: 10:45 a.m. www.fbchollysprings.com

First Baptist Church of Woodstock 11905 Hwy 92, Woodstock, (770) 926-4428 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.fbcw.org

Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, (770) 479-9415 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com

Hickory Log Missionary Baptist 179 Belletta Drive, (770) 479-3347 Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Hopewell Baptist Church 75 Ridge Road, (770) 345-5723 Sunday Services: 9:30, 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.hopewellbaptist.com

Waleska First Baptist

City On A Hill: A United Methodist Church

10657 Fincher Road, (770) 479-1024 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. www.waleskafirstbaptist.org

7745 Main Street, Woodstock, (678) 445-3480 Sunday Services: 9:35 & 11:15 a.m. www.coahumc.org

Episcopal Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church 6488 Hickory Flat Hwy., (404) 395-5003 Meeting at All Points Community Church Saturday Service: 5:30 p.m. www.ctrcec.com

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta (770) 928-7916 or cell (770) 490-7234 Sunday Eucharist Service: 10:30 a.m. www.annunciationepiscopal.org

Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church 2795 Ridge Road, (770) 345-6722 Sunday Eucharist Services: 8, 9 & 11 a.m. www.stclementscanton.org

Jewish 1635 Old Hwy 41 NW, Suites 112-265, Kennesaw Introductory Service: 1st Shabbat of each month at 11 a.m. Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat of each month at 10:30 a.m. (678) 460-7702, www.Jewishwestcobb.com

Congregation Ner Tamid

Mount Zion Baptist Church 4096 East Cherokee Drive, (770) 479-3324 Sunday Services: 8:30, 11 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. www.mtzb.org

Tikvah I’ Chaim “Hope for Life” Messianic Jewish Fellowship

6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-8448 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:50 a.m. www.newvicbaptist.org

4206 N. Arnold Mill Rd., (678) 936-4125 Saturday Shabbat Service: 10 a.m. www.tlchaim.com

Lutheran

Oakdale Baptist 100 Oakdale Road, (770) 479-9060 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Sardis Baptist 392 Sardis Circle, (770) 345-6718 Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Celebration of Grace Lutheran Church Scott Mill Chapel, 411 Scott Mill Road Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. (770) 503-5050, www.celebrationofgrace.org

4967 Fincher Road, (770) 720-0195 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Sutallee Baptist

Timothy Lutheran Church (LC-MS)

895 Knox Bridge Highway, (770) 479-0101 Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com

556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 928-2812 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. Tlcwoodstock.ctsmemberconnect.net

Toonigh Baptist Church 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon, (770) 928-2491 Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Victory Baptist Church 346 Lucky Street, (770) 345-1133 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 7 p.m.

68 My West Canton | december 2011

Hillside United Methodist Church 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Traditional Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. Contemporary Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. (770) 924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org

Holly Springs United Methodist Church 2464 Holly Springs Parkway, (770) 345-2883 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.hollyspringsumc.com

Liberty Hill Church 141 Railroad Street, (678) 493-8920 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.libertyhillumc.org

Orange United Methodist Church 220 Orange Church Circle, (770) 886-9662 Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11 a.m. www.orangeumc.org

Sixes United Methodist Church 8385 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 345-7644 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. www.sixesumc.org

Union Hill United Methodist Church 2000 A.J. Land Road, (678) 297-0550 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.unionhillumc.org

Waleska United Methodist Church 7340 Reinhardt College Parkway Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. (710) 479-4428, www.waleskaumc.org

Orthodox St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock, (770) 924-7286 Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.goodshepherdwoodstock.org

Shoal Creek Baptist

1331 Fields Chapel Road, (770) 479-6030 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.fieldschapel.org

Chabad Jewish Center

Reform Jewish Congregation Contact us for High Holiday Service times & dates (678) 264-8575, www.mynertamid.org

New Victoria Baptist Church

Field’s Chapel United Methodist Church

Methodist

2263 E. Cherokee Drive, (770) 485-0504 Sunday Divine Liturgy: 10 a.m. www.stelizabethga.org

Presbyterian Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA 1498 Johnson Brady Road, (770) 704-9594 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.cherokee-pca.org

Canton First United Methodist Church

Faith Presbyterian Church USA

930 Lower Scott Mill Road, (770) 479-2502 Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:45, & 11 a.m. www.cantonfirstumc.org

3655 Reinhardt College Parkway Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. (770) 479-6193, www.faithpc.us

Grace Church, PCA 1160 Butterworth Road, (770) 265-5811 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.gracecanton.org

Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth, (770) 926-3558 Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11:10 a.m. www.heritagepres.com

Sixes Presbyterian Church 2335 Sixes Road, (770) 485-1975 Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.sixeschurch.org

Woodstock Presbyterian Church 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-0074 Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m.

Roman Catholic Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church 2941 Sam Nelson Road, (770) 479-8923 Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 8 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday Spanish Mass: 5:30 p.m. www.lasalettecanton.com

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 516-0009 Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m., 12:45 & 5:30 p.m. Sunday Spanish Mass: 2:30 p.m. www.stmichaelthearchangelwoodstock.catholicweb.com

Other Churches Allen Temple, AME Church 232 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-6348 Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m., Nursery available www.allentempleame.org

Bells Ferry Church of God 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 592-2956 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.bellsferry.com

BridgePointe Church Meeting at Woodstock Middle/High School Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. (770) 517-2977, www.bridgepointechurch.org

C3 Church 94 North Street, Cherokee Arts Center Sunday Service: 10 a.m. (404) 317-0345, www.c3church.tv

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.christianpraisecenter.com

Canton Adventist Church 411 Scott Mill Road, (678) 880-0106 Saturday Worship: 10 a.m. www.cantonfamiles.org

Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist 101 Rope Mill Road, (770) 591-7304

Saturday Worship: 11:00 a.m. http://cherokee.netadvent.org

Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta 6464 Highway 92, Acworth, (770) 924-9161 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.ctkatlanta.com

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Allatoona Ward, (770) 516-5918 Canton Ward, (770) 479-1522 Woodstock Ward, (770) 928-5641

Church of the Messiah 415 Charles Cox Drive, (770) 479-5280 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.churchofthemessiah.net

Covenant Christian Center

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, (770) 345-2660 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. www.newlifecanton.com

Northern Hills Church of Christ 4563 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton, (404) 579-0885 Sunday Service 10 a.m.

Oak Leaf Church Canton 151 E.Marietta Street, (678) 653-4652 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.oakleafcanton.com

The Pointe (404) 557-9640, www.myfriendschurch.com Visit website or call for information.

Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 928-2795 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.prayerandpraise.org

Services held at their Worship Annex 330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Blvd., Canton Sundays: 10 a.m. (770) 345-0307, www.CityOfCovenant.org

The Quest Church

Dayspring Church

Resurrection Anglican Church

6835 Victory Drive, Acworth (770) 516-5733 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.dayspring-online.com

Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation 2799 Holly Springs Road, Marietta, (770) 578-1533 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.emersonuu.org

Momentum Church 110 Londonderry Court, Woodstock Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. (678) 384-4919, www.MomentumChurch.tv

411 Scott Mill Road, Canton, (678) 687-8670 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.thequestcanton.com

231 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 591-0040 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:45 a.m www.resurrectionwoodstock.org

The River 3440 Sixes Road, Canton (next to Taco Bell) Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.riveratlanta.org

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

Watermarke Church Faith Community Church 659 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock, (770) 516-1996 Sunday Worship: 8 & 10:30 a.m. www.faithcommunitychurch.org

Meeting at Cherokee Charter Academy 2126 Sixes Road, Canton (678) 880-9092 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. www.watermarkechurch.com

Faith Family Church

Woodstock Christian Church

5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth, (770) 926-4560 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.faithagchurch.com

Faith Pointe Church 101 Old Hwy. 5, Canton Thursday Service: 6:30 p.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.faithpointechurch.org

Greater Bethel Community Church 211 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 592-9900 Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Life Changers Church International 2499 Palm Street, Suite 100, (678) 384-4307 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.jamesbryantministries.org

Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, (770) 217-7494 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.lifebiblechurch.com

7700 Highway 92, Woodstock, (770) 926-8238 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.woodstockchristian.org

Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-8838 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. Servico En Espanol Domingo: 10:30 a.m. Ministro: Rafael Uzcategu,i (770) 926-8271 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 924-4499 Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.woodstocknazarene.com

Woodstock Community Church 8534 Main Street, Woodstock, (770) 926-8990 Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. www.wcchurch.org

Waleska Church of God of Prophecy 127 Dry Pond Lane, (770) 214-8343 Sunday Service: 11 a.m & 5 p.m.

www.footprintspublishing.com 69

You Get What You Pay For

continued from page 58

As mentioned earlier, you get what you pay for. If you are the kind of person that appreciates the difference between Toyota and Lexus, chances are you see value in superior quality. If you are this way with cars, trust me, you’ll see and hear the difference in the “Lexus” versions out there in the world of electronics.

A View from the Hill

continued from page 12

will go into the New Year prepared to do all we can to tackle them. If you have any ideas that might help, please let me know by writing to calvin.hill@house.ga.gov or calling my office at (404) 656-0129. Thank you for the honor of serving as your Representative to the 21st Legislative District.

Do You Have Room to Expand?

continued from page 62

installed in the basement during construction, making a water leak from a water heater or thermal expansion tank a major problem. These two items should be checked on a routine basis for leaks and when over 10 years old, replaced to make sure you do not have a flood you may not detect until major damage is caused. Neither item carries a big ticket price to replace considering the peace of mind it can bring. Check with your water department today to see if you have a backflow preventer already installed and if not, when they will install. If you already have a thermal expansion tank, check the date on it to make sure it is not too old and a potential for harm to your home.

School Board News

continued from page 12

the finalized Five-Year Strategic Plan as well as the Legislative Program. Another huge thanks to Assistant Superintendent Bobby Blount and his team for their tireless efforts to update and improve these plans. They are outstanding! I continue to be thankful to be given this opportunity to represent you on the school board.

70 My West Canton | december 2011

Blepharitis

continued from page 50

To determine if you have blepharitis, it is very simple and reviewed during a part of a comprehensive eye examination with your eye care professional. An eye care professional reviews your history and performs a careful physical examination. They will use a slit lamp which is a microscope with a light and high magnification or an external camera for documentation of the findings of the lid. A comprehensive eye examination is usually sufficient in diagnosing blepharitis. If you have any of the symptoms or know of anyone having these symptoms, please do not hesitate contacting your eye care professional today.

. . . One of Caleb’s Kids?

continued from page 60

any other emotion, all Riley sees is the boy he loves. When I first met Is, I promised him that I would do everything in my power to help him become the most productive and independent adult possible. Riley is definitely helping me keep that promise. His registered name is ‘Tanglewood Line to Independence’ and I am so thankful for the independence that he is helping Israel achieve.” Israel and Riley have this amazing bond in part due to the efforts of a local non-profit organization called Caleb’s Kids that helps provide children like Israel with service dogs. Our hospital is proud to be a partner to Caleb’s Kids in their mission. We are currently raising funds to help train Angel, who will be a hearing dog for a five-year old little girl named Lili. Help us provide Lili with a great Christmas present this year! For more information please visit www.calebskids.com. Lili and Israel will thank you!

The Holidays at Disney

continued from page 58

Don’t forget to check out the resorts. You can see a life-size gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian Resort or listen to Christmas carols. At the Beach Club Resort, you can admire the Edible Carousel made of chocolate, gingerbread and candy. You can even take a sleigh ride through the woods at Fort Wilderness. Do some resort hopping to see everything that each resort has to offer. They all have special holiday touches to enjoy.

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Automotive Services BridgeMill Auto Care Center

Home Improvement/Repair/Service 55

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A Healthy Body Towne Lake Family Chiropratic

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Churches 13 Inside Back

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Dentist/Orthodontists 21 63 47 53 31 1 9 27

Education/Instruction/Counseling The Carpenter’s Shop Christian Preschool Chattahoochee Technical College

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Health & Beauty Afterglow Spa Azure Salon and Spa Bambu Salon & Spa Bloom Hair Design Clark Salon Hair ETC Jyl Craven Hair Design Salon & Spa Venessa

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51 65 Back Cover

Cover, HG-39 9 59 19 Cover, HG-40 16 33 47

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BridgeMill Animal Hospital BridgeMill Pets LLC GA K9 National Training Center Riverstone Animal Hospital Savy Paws Pet Resort

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Photography C&W Photography PhotoJack.net

31 Inside Front

Physicians & Medical Services Georgia Hypnotherapy In Harmony Pediatrics Internal Medicine Associates Marietta Facial Plastic Surgery M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine

Recreation & Fitness The Bounce House Canton South ATA Martial Arts Dancentre South Yong In Martial Arts

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Optometrist/Eyewear BridgeMill Eyecare Eyes On You Eyecare Pearle Vision

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Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies

Cleaning Services

Canton Pediatric Dentistry Cherokee Children’s Dentistry Cherokee Family Dental Fountain View Family Dentistry James A. Uhlin, DDS Jerry Smith, P.C. Scott Merritt, DMD Williams Orthodontics

Pineapple Park

Landscaping/Landscape Services

Chiropractor

First Baptist Church of Woodstock Liberty Hill UMC

45 59 9 61 63

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BAM Fence Dr. Fixit Jason Brown Plumbing Mr. Junk Reliable Heating & Air

Meridian Surgical Northside Hospital — Cherokee Northside Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine Plastic Surgery Center of the South Vein Center of North Georgia Wellstar Health Systems Woodstock Medical Weight Loss

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Alessandro’s Italian Café & Pizzeria Cover, HG-38 HMS/Center Cut Restaurants 23, 47 Iron Horse Restaurant 11 Jill’s Cakes & Bakes 19 OO LA LA Yogurt 9 Starbucks 1

Services/Retailers/Miscellaneous Audio Intersection Canton Jewelry Cherokee Chorale Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Ghost Net Inc. Key’s Jewelry Olde Time Pharmacy Pixie Vacations Premier Pool Enterprises

57 Cover, HG-40 60 27 21 Cover, HG-38 19 57 33

Stellaris Ministries What a Girl Wants

61 Cover, HG-39

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