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Publisher & Co-Owner Brian Meek Executive Editor & Co-Owner Michelle Meek
editorial
Holiday Guide Local businesses offer specials during the holidays
Editor Cherryl Greenman Social Media Delaney Young
art Graphic Designer Tiffany Atwood Graphic Designer Candice Williams
sales
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DECemBER 2011 Holiday Hope An updated list of organizations who you may help, through donations, funds, or volunteering, during the holidays.
Holiday Programs & Services Holiday worship service times and program celebrations.
contributors Photographers Jack Tuszynski Writers Beverly Acker, Jyl Craven, Shannon Dobson, Rick Foltz, Lisa Graham, Scott Harden, Jordana Heaven, Donnie Henriques, Dan Jape, Mike Litrel, Megan McGinnis, Vishant Nath, Billy Peppers, Patrick J. Rice, Jr., Chip Rogers, Adriana Rzeznik, Frini Shah, Herb Sims, Laurie Troublefield, Cathy Wendland-Colby, Monika Yadav
Volume 1 | Issue 2
Holiday Handbook Our community has many exciting events to celebrate the holidays.
Believe
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In Every Issue
4 My Woodstock 6 Community news 10 Celebrations 12 Calendar 14 School news 18 school information 20 SPORTS 28 Cherokee Chamber of Commerce
Directory Listings 56 58 60 64 2
Market Director Janet Ponichtera Advertising Designer Ashley George
My Woodstock | december 2011
religious services clubs & Organizations Local Officials Advertiser index
113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 204 Canton, GA 30115 tel. (770) 720-7497 fax. (770) 720-1329 editor@mywoodstockmonthly.com admanager@mywoodstockmonthly.com www.mywoodstockmonthly.com My Woodstock 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 Woodstock area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found. My Woodstock 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 Woodstock 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.
Š 2011 All rights reserved. My Woodstock Monthly is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25 percent recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.
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WOODSTOCK Community — Home
by Cherryl Greenman, editor@mywoodstockmonthly.com
Rejoice Maids Service (1), 9585 Main Street, was started on the premise of providing clients with a unique office cleaning service that would leave your home or business clean and healthy. With over 10 years experience in the cleaning industry, Rejoice Maids Service, formerly NARRA Maids, has learned to adapt to the various needs of its clients. All team members are experienced and adhere to the highest standard and integrity of its chosen profession. Rejoice Maids provides unsurpassed cleaning services through active management and outstanding quality control measures. Call owners Gemma and George Beylouny for a quote today. (678) 905-3476 Bates Home Specialties, 5087 Cumming Hwy, recently opened, providing quality product lines of materials and supplies for the homeowner, the remodeler, and the contractor for any remodeling, rebuilding, renewing, or maintaining your home. A showroom provides its clients the opportunity to see, touch, and feel many of the products offered, with kitchen cabinet displays, flooring samples, several different window displays, shutters, and a full size deck with screened porch showing many different deck building options. Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday 7:30 a.m. – noon. (770) 479-1821
1 Rejoice Maids Ser vice, form erly NARRA Maids — new name . . . same manag ement and same great quality ser vice!
Diva Roofing and Construction, is now open and ready to help you create some Christmas magic by installing your Christmas lights on your home! Diva Roofing and Construction also offers roofing and construction services. Thinking of keeping a little of your Christmas green for yourself? Diva Roofing and Construction will help you with attic insulation. (770) 845-4888, www.divaroofing.com Anytime Fitness, 3753 Marietta Hwy, #125 is scheduled to open soon and is ready to help you with your New Year’s resolution to get into shape! 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. (770) 720-1831
2 Ameris Bank (2) launched its 2nd annual Helping Fight Hunger initiative during the month of October, and bank-wide, 152,843 non-perishable food items and $8,986 in donations was collected. Ameris Bancorp pledged to match each item donated with a like food item or the monetary equivalent. In the Atlanta area, a total of 8,247 items and $5,983.25 in donations was donated to Helping In His Name Ministries Food Pantry, MUST Ministries of Cherokee County, Rock Springs Church Food Pantry, MUST Ministries of Marietta, and The Atlanta Food Bank.
ms yees and food ite Ameris Bank emplo nd Annual Helping Fight donated for the 2 Hunger initiative. 4
My Woodstock | december 2011
AARP Tax-Aide Seeks Area Volunteers AARP Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service, is seeking volunteers in the Atlanta metro area to help taxpayers who are seeking assistance preparing and filing their 2011 tax returns. Volunteers do not need to be an AARP member or a retiree to participate, but should have some computer experience, such as email and Internet browsing. Visit www.aarp.org/tavolunteer8 or call (888) OUR-AARP ((888) 687-2277). Deadline for application is December 15, 2011.
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COMMUNITY Eagle Scout Celebration
Eagle Scout Jeffrey Scott Spears and Majority Leader Georgia Senate Chip Rogers at Jeffrey’s Eagle Court of Honor celebration held at Canton Methodist Church.
Starbucks Supports Local Community
Starbucks managers, employees and volunteers joined together to help with a much needed project at the Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA on Lake Allatoona. This project was initiated by Jason Bonafede, store manager at the Sixes Road Starbucks. The 35 volunteers painted the Outdoor Y’s large pavilion and replaced a retaining wall at the Woodall Family Dining Hall. Starbucks gave of their time and resources to support our local community. Visit pcy. ymcaatlanta. org or call (770) 345-9622. Thank you Starbucks! Front row (left to right): Jan Mabry, Barrett Parkway; Robyn Quasebarth, Town Center Mall; Jeff Hord, Prado Barnes & Noble; Chakka Clark, Trickum Road; Back row: Blair Johnson, Towne Lake; Lindsay Blankenship, Sandy Plains Publix; Lu Ivey, District Manager; Jason Bonafede, Sixes Road; Tiffany Tinsley, Barrett Lakes; Brian Coleman, Mabry Road; Amanda Rich, Ellijay; Gloria Lyles, E. Piedmont; Crystal Jones, Towne Lake; Jessica Pelman, Riverstone.
Girl Scouts Expo
Cherokee County Girl Scouts from Troop 2919 recently attended the 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, 6
My Woodstock | december 2011
entertainment, workshops and other activities. At the expo, the 1,500 attendees demonstrated their excitement as they experienced educational activities around robotics, aerospace engineering and forensic science.
North Metro Miracle League Receives Grant
North Metro Miracle League recently received a 2011 Atlanta Braves Foundation Grant. The Atlanta Braves Foundation awarded $150,000 in grants to 19 local non-profit organizations prior to the Braves game vs. the Philadelphia Phillies on September 27. The grants are used towards helping the organizations fund initiatives Atlanta Braves president, including after school programs, John Schuerholz, gives health and wellness efforts, award to Woodstock resident anti-bullying campaigns, Eddie Moore of North Metro Miracle League. educational projects, athletic programs, and much more. North Metro Miracle League was awarded $5,000 to help fund the Common Ground/Common Goals program, which brings diverse groups of children and youth together to participate in sports and social programs.
CTC Bring Home Gold, Silver & Bronze
Chattahoochee Technical College’s (CTC) Department of External Affairs brought home six awards for their efforts over the past year. National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR) District 2 awarded CTC with six of its prestigious honors for communications and marketing. A reported 426 entries were judged from more than 50 community and technical college’s participating in this year’s competition. The college won two gold, two silver and two bronze awards at the annual conference in Atlanta this October. “We are thrilled with the recognition,” said Chattahoochee Technical College Vice President of External Affairs Jennifer Nelson. “The team works hard more on page 8 to put together solid, dynamic, and effective messages
Trusted experts delivering the latest in cardiac care Northside is home to a team of talented and experienced professionals specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular services. From leading diagnostic services to angioplasty and pacemaker implantation, Northside’s experts deliver leading cardiac care right in your community. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
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COMMUNITY
that can be delivered through a variety of mediums. To hear from our peers that we are doing a good job is a great honor.” Front row: Webmaster David Powell. Back row (left to right): CTC Marketing Coordinator DeeDee Doecke; Director of Marketing Communications Kim Crowe; Public Relations Specialist Rebecca Long; Video and Animation Specialist Joseph Garza.
2011 Rivers Alive Clean-Up
The Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority, city of Woodstock, city of Holly Springs and the Upper Etowah River Alliance sponsored the 2011 Rivers Alive Little River Clean-up which was held in October. The river clean-up was a great success with 74 volunteers cleaning up four miles in and around Little River. The volunteers filled 48 trash bags with food wrappers, fishing line, and other miscellaneous items. More than 1,000 beverage containers were picked up! Volunteers also collected larger items such as furniture, building materials, car parts, and 19 tires. Left to right: Josiah, Tishri, Ezekiel Dobson of Woodstock participated in the 2011 Rives Alive Clean-Up helping to clean Little River at Olde Rope Mill Park.
Northside Auxiliary Celebrates 50 Years
Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary Celebrates 50 years. 8
My Woodstock | december 2011
Northside Hospital-Cherokee Auxiliary is celebrating its 50 year anniversary. Prior to the first 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.
Annual Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Awards
The Canton Moose Lodge recently held its annual Public Safety Appreciation dinner. Awards for Officer of the Year were given to employees from all public safety agencies Sgt. Marianne Kelly in the county. Cherokee Sheriff’s Office employees receiving awards were: Sgt. Marianne Kelly, Criminal Investigations, DEP Matthew Verber Det. William Ballard Crimes Against Children; Detective William Ballard, Criminal Investigation, Property Crimes; Lt. June Blackwell, DEP Casey Steele Lt. June Blackwell Headquarters Operations; Cpl. Ryan Brooks, Adult Detention Center; Deputy William Vanschuyver, Court Services Division; DEP Noah Rich Denise Mirabella Denise Mirabella, Warrant and Civil Unit; Deputy Garry Smith, Uniform Patrol Operations, Division 1; Deputy Matthew Verber, Uniform Patrol Cpl. Mark Kapanowski DEP Garry Smith Operations, Division 2; Deputy Casey Steele, Uniform Patrol Operations, Division 3; Deputy Noah Rich, Uniform Patrol Operations, Division 4; and Cpl. Mark Kapanowski, Special Operations.
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WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTO IN OUR CELEBRATION SECTION? Birthday, Anniversary & Wedding Announcements are Free!
Babies, Birthdays and Anniversaries
Cole Villano
Age 5 on December 21 Happy Birthday! We Love You, Mommy, Daddy, Chase, Reece and Gabi
Logan Paul Maricle
Age 1 on December 22 Happy 1st Birthday Little Man! We Love You So Much, Mommy, Daddy, Sissy, & All the rest of your family
Isabella Grace LaMarca Age 4 on September 30 Proud parents Guy & Dawn LaMarca Sister of Sophia Lillian
John Paul Maricle
Age 29 on December 19 Happy Birthday to a Very Wonderful Man! We Love You, Brandy, Logan, and Callie
Lori Jo Greenman & Blake Duncan Gallagher
Married September 10, 2011 Cancun, Mexico 10 My Woodstock | december 2011
My Woodstock Monthly 113 Mountain Brook Dr., Suite 204, Canton, GA 30115 or art@mywoodstockmonthly.com Deadline is December 10th for the January Issue!
Joey Miller
Age 7 on November 23 Happy Birthday to our Little Dude! We love you, Mommy and Daddy
Sandeep Soni
December 31st Happy Birthday Daddy!!! You are our hero and we love you! Nidhi (wife), Amoli (daughter) and Aryan (son)
Madison Pippins
Happy Sweet 16 Madi! We love you! Daddy, Jodi, and Zeke
Connor Reeder
Age 7 on December 13 Happy 7th Birthday! We are so proud of you and love you so much! Daddy, Mommy, Bishop and Brady
John, Marilyn, Ryan and Lauren Flynn Born on August 5, 2011 We’re so glad to have you all home! We love you, Mommy and Daddy
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December
Things to do in Woodstock
On–Going •
SENIOR SERVICES FOOD PANTRY The pantry is currently low on protein-based canned food items; also needed are boxed dry goods, canned fruits and vegetables, and paper products. (770) 345-2675
December 1 — 11 • ANNUAL HOLIDAY CLAY MARKET The Georgia Clay Council in conjunction with the Artsmith Pottery and Regina Hines Studio will host this holiday market at 120 S. Main Street, Jasper. Thurs-Sat from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Sun from 1 – 4 p.m. Open House will be held on Friday, December 2 from 5 – 7 p.m. www.gaclay.com
December 2 • FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE
2011
December
Fergus
Calendar
DOG OF THE MONTH
The Woodstock Calendar Dog calendars featuring Woodstock dogs are available with proceeds benefitting the Cherokee County Humane Society. Cost is $14 and are available at CCHS Thrift Store on Bells Ferry Road, (770) 627-2335, the.amazing.spork@hotmail.com
“Christmas on Main” spend the evening strolling downtown Woodstock as merchants will stay open from 6 – 9 p.m. (770) 924-0406
December 3 • CANTON CHRISTMAS PARADE Christmas parade begins at 5:30 in historic downtown Canton.
shoppers will find unique creations by local artisans. (770) 992-2055 ext. 236, www.chattnaturecenter.org
December 3 • December 3 •
HOLLY SPRINGS CHRISTMAS PARADE
GSO HOLIDAY POPS
The parade will begin at 3 p.m. on Holly Springs Prkwy beginning at Hiram Way to Hickory Road. (770) 345-5536
Georgia Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and the Georgia Youth Symphony Chorus will present holiday favorites at Zion Baptist Church, 165 Lemon St., Marietta at 3 p.m.
December 3 •
www.georgiasymphony.org
WOODSTOCK ANNUAL PARADE OF LIGHTS
December 3 •
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.
HISTORIC TOUR OF HOMES Ball Ground Business Association will host its annual Historic Tour of Holiday Homes beginning at 11 a.m. at The Wheeler House. www.ballgroundbusinessassociation.com
December 3 — 4, 11, 18, 21 • December 3 •
“LITTLE DRUMMER BOY”
HOLIDAY MARKET
Elm Street Players will perform this play at the City Center, 8534 Main Street. 2 p.m. on December 3, 4, 11, and 18 and at 10 a.m. on December 21. All seats $9.
Back to nature holiday market held at the Chattahoochee Nature Center from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free admission to the nature center,
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December 4 • EXPLORATION OF BOOK OF RUTH Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 1208 Rose Creek Drive, will host Dr. Diane Jacobson for a conversation about the Biblical book of Ruth at 3 p.m. (770) 924-7286
December 9 • SHOP WITH A COP This event helps children whose families are facing financial difficulties by taking them shopping at the Wal-Mart at Hwy 92 and Trickum. Donations for this great event are always needed and appreciated! For more information call (770) 592-6016.
December 9 — 10 • 4th ANNUAL THE STAR PERFORMANCE An evening of music, dance and theatre celebrating “The Child Who Is The Light” to be held at the Cherokee County Arts Center in Canton at 7 p.m. This event will feature local musicians, dancers and performers. For more information and tickets go to www.follow-thestar.com, (404) 277-1736
December 3, 7, 13 • AUTUMN HILL NURSERY
December 9 — 10, 17, 22, 24 • “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” Elm Street Players will perform this play at the City Center, 8534 Main Street. December 9 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. December 10 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., December 22 at 7:30 p.m. and December 24 at 2 p.m. Adults $11, Seniors/ students $10 and ages 12 and under $9
up any time before 9 p.m. $5 per child or $7.50 for two children. Reservations are a must, no at the door drop offs! Registration runs from December 1-9. Must have at least 12 children registered for event to be scheduled. Call (770) 517-6788 to register.
December 15 — 17, 23 • “IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE”
December 10 • ANNUAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA The laying of wreaths at the Georgia National Cemetery will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a program at noon. Wreaths may be purchased for this event; 1 wreath is $15. Submit your donation to Georgia National Cemetery Location Leader, 2000 Airport Road, #125, Atlanta, GA 30341, (404) 210-1442
December 12 — 13 • AUDITIONS “BRIGADOON” Elm Street Players will hold auditions for “Brigadoon” at the City Center, 8534 Main Street for ages 14 through adults beginning at 7 p.m. See website for details. www.elmstreetarts.org
December 15 • PARENT’S NIGHT OUT 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! Bring them to The City of Woodstock’s Magnolia Hall (formerly the Community Center) at 5 p.m. and pick them
Contest Corner
Find the hidden picture
Elm Street Players will perform this play at the City Center, 8534 Main Street. December 15 — 17 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. Adults $11, Seniors/ students $10 and ages 12 and under $9
December 17 • MAIN STREET SESSIONS 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. Held at the Woodstock Visitors Center, Dean’s Store
December 26 — January 14 • CHRISTMAS TREE CHIP & DIP Throw away your Christmas tree the environmental way! Bring your Christmas trees to Olde Rope Mill Park starting the day after Christmas and they will be fed into a new chipper. The following week, bring a shovel to Rope Mill Park any time during park hours from 8 a.m. to dusk, and “dip” into the free mulch! Pick up free tree seedlings at the park on January 7 during Bring One for the Chipper event sponsored by the Keep Georgia Beautiful campaign. Available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hickory Flat location — 4256 Earney Road off Hwy 140 in Hickory Flat, 770-442-390, autumnhillnursery@hotmail.com. • December 3: Two readings of the new children’s book “Tea with Lady Sapphire: Sharing the Love of Birds” reading at 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. includes tea, hot chocolate, cookies and other activities. $5 per child. Call or email to reserve space. • December 3: Share the Love of Nature Pick out a Frasier Fir Christmas tree and wreath, kid’s activities include face painting, crafts (all ages including moms) singing and S’mores. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $5 per child. • December 7: Christmas Wreath or Door Swag Make & Take. Create a one-of-a-kind decoration made with fresh cut Frasier Fir greens at 12 p.m. RSVP by December 5. Canton location — 100 Pea Ridge Road, Canton, 770-345-5252 • December 4: Make & Take Wreath at 1 p.m. embellish a fresh Frasier Fir wreath with furnished greens, berries, and baubles. Wine and hors d’oeuvre. RSVP • December 7: Make & Take Centerpiece at 11 a.m. or 7 p.m. This is a fun and easy class for a long lasting centerpiece for mantle or table. RSVP – space is limited. • December 9: Fireside Reading at 6:30 p.m. for children. “Tea with Lady Sapphire” plus hot chocolate and s’mores. RSVP $5 per child. • December 11: Make & Take Christmas Gift at 1 p.m. Workshop to help you create unique gifts. RSVP. • December 14: Over the Top Gift Wrapping at 7 p.m. Workshop on how to adorn your gifts. RSVP
Schreeda Johnson was our winner for November’s contest corner. She will receive a Starbucks gift card. Congratulations! If you find the hidden picture, be the first to email:
art@mywoodstockmonthly.com
Only emailed answers will be accepted. *Contest participants are able to win one time per calendar year
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SCHOOL Principal for a Day
The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Cherokee County School District to present its annual Principal for a Day program through which Chamber members had the opportunity to shadow a CCSD principal. Arnold Mill Elementary School hosted Amy Worley of BARCO Disaster Response as its Principal for a Day. Scott Murphy, owner of Canton ATA Martial Arts, served as Principal for a Day at Holly Springs Elementary. He sat in on a collaborative training session for the new PD 360 Professional Development program and assisted Principal Dr. Dianne Steinbeck with her duties throughout the morning. Jay Wright from It’s a Grind Coffee House, was Principal for a Day at Little River Elementary School. Johnston Elementary School welcomed Gus Van Brink of Aamco Transmissions in Canton, who spent the day with kindergarten through fifth-grade students helping collect cans for the FAL-can food drive. Jeff Mitchell, Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending with United Community Bank was Principal for a Day at Mountain Road Elementary School. He shadowed Principal Tammy Sandell and learned about careers in education as he toured the school, read books to classes and observed teachers.
Amy Worley reads to Debbie Baluch’s third grade class.
Left to right: Fourth graders Christopher Berggren, Robbie Alden, Lexie Gustin, and Jeff Mitchell.
Left to right: Jay Wright and Little River principal Christian A. Kirby.
be used to purchase Amazon Kindles for Ms. Dasher’s Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition class. Students will have access to thousands of literary classics that are available from Amazon’s free eBook collections, and they will also have access to select books from local and online public libraries. The Bright Ideas program supports innovative classroom ideas and projects by teachers in local school systems that otherwise would go unfunded. Left to right: Sawnee EMC director of external affairs Cindy Badgett, Elaine Dasher and Sequoyah principal Elliott Berman.
History Comes Alive for Students
Local author, columnist and economist Donald Conkey made America’s founding documents come alive in a presentation to students at Cherokee Charter Academy (CCA) in Canton. Wearing a hat like that worn by founding father James Madison, America’s fourth president, “Father of the U.S. Constitution” and author of the Bill of Rights. Conkey emphasized the freedoms for which he Donald Conkey speaks said Americans need to continue to fight. to Cherokee Charter Wrapping in a large blanket adorned with Academy students. images of the American flag, Conkey urged students to wrap themselves in the truth of America. He also commended those students running for CCA student council, urging them to outline their platforms clearly so that fellow students would understand what they stood for and hoped to accomplish.
Mountain Road Celebrates Grandparents Day Principal Kathleen Chandler and Gus Van Brink Principal for a Day.
Sequoyah Teacher Receives Grant
The Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation has awarded a $1,482 grant to Elaine Dasher of Sequoyah High School through its Sawnee EMC Foundation/Bright Ideas program. The grant will 14 My Woodstock | december 2011
Luke, Maggie and Isabella Sharpton enjoy visiting with their grandfather, Dr. Bill Sharpton.
Third grader Enzo Ippolito shares breakfast with his grandfather, Daryl Wheeler.
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Holly Springs Perfect Attendance
Jennifer Waters’ fifth grade homeroom at Holly Springs Elementary School recently was treated to doughnuts, orange juice and milk for having perfect attendance with no tardies and no early check-outs. “We are trying to improve our attendance here at Holly Springs, and this is one thing we are doing to recognize positive steps toward our goal,” assistant principal Deborah L. Kelly said. Also, a Perfect Attendance Celebration was enjoyed by students who had no tardies or early dismissals the first nine weeks of school; they received 30-minute sessions on inflatables.
Johnston Supports Children in Need The faculty and staff at Johnston Elementary School supported the Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival, sponsored by the Service League of Cherokee County. They purchased t-shirts to help promote the event, which benefits Cherokee County children in need.
Front row (left to right): Sharon Fann, Kathleen Chandler, Karen Feltner and Kathy King. Second row: Tina Word, Joan Lindsey, Marsha Allen, Cindy Reeves and Rose Anne Mayer. Back row: Susan Thompson, Allison Brittin, Dawn Urban, Selina Wingard and Jennifer Chambers.
Woodstock Reads with World Left to right: Gabrielle Boone, Judson O’Connor, principal Dr. Dianne Steinbeck, Orissa Bazzell and Hunter Schneider.
First-graders, from left to right, Mary Grace Wilkie, Morgan Gantt, Rachel Lewis and Bethany Patton get ready to jump.
Music to Shop By
BJ’s Wholesale Club was serenaded by the Arnold Mill Elementary School chorus on September 29. The chorus led by Amy Diehl sang a BJ’s community relations specialist variety of songs to Susie Meacham and operations celebrate this successful manager Cory Fritts welcomed the partnership. There were Arnold Mill ES families. game stations, raffles and lots of food and refreshments arranged by the store.
Family Reading Night at Holly Springs
Holly Springs Elementary School welcomed Todd Key, author of “What’s in My Pocket?” during its Family Reading Night. The event was sponsored by the school’s English Language Arts School Governance Team to promote a love of reading and to allow parents a first-hand view of activities and strategies used in teaching students to enjoy reading. Principal Dr. Dianne Steinbeck and Todd Key 16 My Woodstock | december 2011
Woodstock Elementary School invited parents and their preschool children to a very special story hour on Thursday, October 6. They read “Llama Llama Red Pajama” in their pajamas and did a craft. Two million people worldwide read this book on the same day trying to set a new world record. Mama Llama (aka Melody Pinion) holding Eden McVay, and Ferst Foundation reader Debby Pinion (Mama Llama’s Mom) surrounded by Woodstock preschoolers Nancy Tirado, Samantha de la Cruz, Amanda Huang, Amelia Huang, Jonah Sykes, Gabe Figueroa, Victor Yu, Alaina Parman, Eric McVay, Case Helton, and Julietta Nicoletta.
AME’s Fall Fun Festival
More than 250 attended Arnold Mill Elementary’s (AME) annual Fall Family Festival which included inflatables by Mountain Empire Promotions, DJ, games and prizes, cake walks, basket raffle and a silent auction for one-of-akind decorated pumpkins. As an added bonus, those who brought clothing or recycling donations received free game tickets. AME PTA would like to thank Chick-fil-A, Daddy Qs, Rita’s and the many local business sponsors that provided food and refreshments to this annual event.
Left to right: Kelly Popp, Ella MaCarty, Angelina Picirrilli, Arden Smathers, and Maggie Lokey
Attendees enjoyed inflatables, games and prizes at fall festival.
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S C H O O L
Private & Charter Schools Brenwood Academy
Lyndon Academy
(770) 704-4925 www.brenwoodacademy.com
(770) 926-0166 www.lyndonacademy.org
Cherokee Charter Academy
Northside Christian Academy
(770) 276-3031 www.cherokeecharter.org
(770) 334-0648 www.nca4hope.com
Cherokee Christian Schools (678) 494-5464 www.cherokeechristian.org
The Kings Academy (770) 592-5464 www.thekingsacademy.org
Public Schools
Cherokee County School District: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us | (770) 479-1871 Woodstock Elementary
Elementary Schools
230 Rope Mill Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 926-6969 Principal: Dr. Christy Bowling
Arnold Mill Elementary 710 Arnold Mill Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 592-3510 Principal: Ms. Kerry Martin
Holly Springs Elementary
Middle Schools Dean Rusk Middle
Polaris Evening School
4695 Hickory Road Canton, GA 30115 (770) 345-2832 Principal: Dr. Adrian Thomason
Johnston Elementary
Mill Creek Middle
2031 East Cherokee Drive Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 928-2910 Principal: Ms. Kathleen Chandler
442 Arnold Mill Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 924- 5489 Principal: Ms. Elaine Daniel
Little River Elementary
Woodstock Middle 2000 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-3516 Principal: Mr. Mark Smith
2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 926-1662 Principal: Mr. Bob Hahn
River Ridge High 400 Arnold Mill Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 591-8450 Principal: Mr. Darrell Herring
Sequoyah High 4485 Hickory Rd Canton, GA 30115 (770) 345-1474 Principal: Mr. Elliott Berman
Woodstock High
Mountain Road Elementary
2010 Towne Lake Hills South Drive Woodstock, GA 30189 (770) 592-3500 Principal: Mr. Bill Sebring
615 Mountain Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 664-9708 Principal: Ms. Tammy Sandell
2011 — 2012 Calendar at a Glance December 19 — 30 January 2
Crossroads High/Middle 3921 Holly Springs Parkway Holly Springs, GA 30142 (770) 345-2005 Principal: Mr. Richard Landolt
1965 Hickory Road Canton, GA 30115 (770) 345-5035 Principal: Dr. Dianne Steinbeck
3170 Trickum Road Woodstock, GA 30188 (770) 926-7566 Principal: Mr. Christian Kirby
High Schools
School Holiday Staff Development & Work Day
January 16
School Holiday
February 20 — 24
School Holiday
Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com Parent Connect: https://pcxp.cherokee.k12.ga.us 18 My Woodstock | december 2011
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
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SPORTS SCRA Redskins Cheer Squad
The SCRA Redskins Cheer Squad is taking the reins once again this year in cheer competition. The team took home first place, Grand Champions and Spirit Awards last year and is moving towards beating that this year. Having just competed in the Halloween Jam and taking first place for the Junior II division, Grand Champions for the entire Junior division and Most Entertaining, the Redskin Cheer Squad is nothing short of amazing! The squad also took first place at the Cobb Cheer Fest and competed at the Circus Jam in November.
Cherokee Spurs Take Tournament
The Cherokee Spurs 5th grade boy’s basketball team won the first annual November to Remember Tournament held November 4-6 in Woodstock. The Spurs defeated the 6th grade Roswell Hornets in the championship game, 41-38. The Cherokee Spurs are a 5th grade basketball team made up of boys from various Cherokee County Schools. Front row (left to right): Grant Mogelnicki, Cole Bearden, Lake Boyer, Brennan Milone, Jon Jon Pefanis, Spencer Weis, and Will Brown. Back row: Head coach, Vladimir Jaksic, Luka Jaksic, Paxton Nayman, Darius Garvin, Jack O’Donnell, and Dave Weis.
Reinhardt Women’s Soccer
In women’s soccer action on Saturday, October 22, Reinhardt claimed at least a share of the AAC regular season championship and the No. 1 seed at the AAC Tournament with a 4-2 conference win over the visiting Columbia College Fighting Koalas. The Lady Eagles played host for the AAC Tournament which was held on November 5, 10 and 12. Congratulations Lady Eagles!
Cheer Squad
The 8/9 River Ridge Gold Cheer Squad recently participated in cheering for the homecoming game. 8/9 River Ridge Gold Cheer Squad 20 My Woodstock | december 2011
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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 22 My Woodstock | 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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in downtown Woodstock. That can’t help but stir our local economy for the better.
CITY HALL
In the adult year, we’ve just ended another type of season that I believe most people dread: Election Time.
‘Tis The Season
by Mayor Donnie Henriques It’s everyone’s favorite time of the kid year. . . Christmas! In my house, since we (my wife) agreed to be on the Junior Service League’s Christmas Tour of Homes, it’s been Christmas since right after Labor Day. A few Donnie Henriques is the mayor of days after the “official” end Woodstock. You may contact him of summer, decorators and by calling 770-592-6001 or e-mail painters descended upon our dhenriques@woodstockga.gov house and have been slowly transforming our little craftsman style home into Santa’s Winter Wonderland. Needless to say, in my mind Christmas will be long overdue by the time it really gets here. But, it’s for a good cause, as the Service League raises money for charity and brings awareness to the beautiful homes
” 24 My Woodstock | december 2011
I was honored to have been asked to chair the Ed Splost renewal campaign. In doing so, I had a multitude of volunteers who, like me, believed that we need to continue funding this improvement campaign; not just our kids that are presently in the system, but those that will benefit from these efforts for decades to come. Like most campaigns, it got ugly for a while with those who oppose any tax, as well as those that hold a grudge against the school board for not originally approving the Charter School proposal from a company out of Florida. The committee, I believe, got the message out that the two subjects are completely separate, and enough voters saw it that way. While I won’t be involved with the next Splost campaign, I hope the voters of Cherokee never have memory loss. . . what it was like back in the 90s when our schools all had trailers and the system was close to losing it’s accreditation. Dr. P and the boards since then have done a terrific job of making Cherokee a great place to educate your children. Thank God, the campaigns are over, at least for another year. Then it starts all over again. The signs, the ads, the banners, the people standing on corners trying to get your attention while you are driving — don’t you miss it already!
“The Couple” is back in town! And doing what they do best — listening to their customers and appreciating the continuing support they receive from the locals. Steve and Windee Colbert are back in the liquor store business once again, to the delight of their very loyal clientele. Steve and Windee both worked at Joe’s Bottle Shop and married in 1989. After taking a page out of his father, Joe Colbert’s book of life – to own his own store, Steve’s business dream came true when the couple bought Charlie’s on Canton Road from Joe in the mid 90s. Life continued to blossom for Steve and
Windee, raising three boys, Michael (21), Hunter (19) and Walker (11) and then in 2002, buying Joe’s store — Joe’s Bottle Shop — and renaming it Charlie’s II. In 2005, they decided to sell both Charlie’s on Canton Road and Charlie’s II on Bells Ferry Road. But once again life’s book flipped pages on the Colberts and they became the owners/operators of Charlie’s II again. Steve and Windee totally remodeled the store and filled it to the brim with the quality merchandise they know their customers like. Steve says, “We may not be the largest store in the area, but we focus on prices and inventory, and
we believe customer service is just as important!” Charlie’s II has a great selection of domestic, import and hard to find craft beers, with the remodeling completed, the wine room will stand head-to-head with the larger stores in the area at great prices. “If we don’t have what you are looking for, we will be glad to order it for you,” says Windee. Stop by and get reacquainted with Steve and Windee, you will remember what Charlie’s II is all about — a family owned and operated business where everyone is welcome!
8688 Main Street, Woodstock, GA 30188 | (770) 924-0406 | www.mainstreetwoodstock.org
iT’S THE MOST
Wonderful Time of the Year! by Billy Peppers It’s amazing. The Christmas holidays are already upon us. This time last year we had the angst of dealing with the streetscape construction downtown. There were vacant storefronts, whispers of restaurants, and a whole lot of concern in downtown Woodstock. Fast-forward to December 2011 and downtown is a completely new animal. Thriving stores, such as Blue Frog Imports, Natural Strides, the Bridal Exchange, Acru, Holly Springs Jewelry, The Funky Paintbrush, The Wright Stuff Collectibles and Alex N Sis grace the commercial landscape. The palate is tickled by the
many flavors of Firestone Wood Fired Pizza and Grill, Wink, Ipp’s Pastaria, Yoguri, Beetle’s BBQ, Freight Kitchen & Tap, Cotton Mill Deli and Copper Coin Coffee. Salon Spa Venessa, East of Main and Uptown Hair will help you with your personal image. We’ve seen construction of homes, the new GI Specialties building, the opening of Elm Street Arts Center, the Chambers, and construction has begun on Walton Woodstock apartments. It’s amazing what a year we’ve had.
“
I look at other towns around us that have lost businesses, shuttered post office buildings, seen the retail trending downward and I really think of how lucky we are. We’re gearing up for the opening of Dress Up, a new restaurant at the Hubbard House, the start of construction on the downtown amphitheatre, a new parking lot on Mill Street, and of course the left turn lane on Towne Lake Parkway — silence your horns, salvation is near!
”
Our Main Street program is gaining new members weekly. We’ve been BUZZin’ the last Friday of each month. Shameless plug: If you haven’t been to a Main Street Morning Buzz to network in the community, you’re missing ALL the action! Have you noticed the $29,000 in façade grants the Downtown Development Authority has used to spruce up the older buildings? In a recent survey, 89 percent of downtown guests say we’re headed in the right direction! Whispers have started about even more activities for 2012. We’re gearing up for the first official TASTE of WOODSTOCK next fall. There will be a new Main Street Woodstock Small Business Academy launching in January. We’re working to bring MBA, MAT, and MPA courses downtown. Main Street Woodstock is just hitting its stride! Please be sure to come out this holiday season and shop locally. Come visit us downtown, support local merchants and make an impact in YOUR community! 26 My Woodstock | december 2011
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P.O. Box 4998 3605 Marietta Hwy, Canton
770-345-0400 www.CherokeeChamber.com
Chart BioMedical
Prudential Georgia Realty — 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
28 My Woodstock | 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 in a high school play 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. 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 his mustache and beard are fake. 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 on his entire ensemble. 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 all of 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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The holiday season is drawing close and you have visions of your children running to the Christmas tree to see what Santa has left for them. Perhaps you are thinking about all the cookies you will be making for friends and relatives, as well as the wonderful meals you are planning for your family. Some children in our area will not have gifts for the holidays nor will their families enjoy a special holiday dinner — unless we all help! My Woodstock 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.
NEW Adopt 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. Senior Services has 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.
NEW Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council (VAC)
Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council 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 Program, the Food Closet and more. The VAC also provides nearly $1,000 each month to purchase nutritional supplements for those who cannot eat regular meals due to medication conditions. Donations are vital to the continued success of VAC and the programs it supports. Any donation is greatly appreciated and can be designated specifically for a specific program, all are listed on the VAC website, or you can allow VAC to apply the 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. Donations can be made online at www.VAC-CherokeeGA.org, or you can send your check payable to the Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council to PO Box 291, Lebanon GA, 30146.
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 30 My Woodstock | december 2011
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
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. 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. www.dfcs.dhr.georgia.gov
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 boy’s 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 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 requested are: 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
MUST Ministries Cherokee
(UPDATED)
MUST Ministries Cherokee 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 – December 22 from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 – 8 p.m., (770) 427-9862. 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, contact the holiday coordinator at (770) 479-5397 ext. 3107 or by e-mail at mcherokee@mustministries.org.
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.
Cherokee County DFCS Secret Santa Program
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 be happy to mail a Secret Santa information kit out to you. You can also get more information at the Cherokee County DFCS website: www.cherokeesanta.org. The website contains a downloadable sponsor form for your convenience.
Foster Care Support Foundation, Inc.
Foster Care Support Foundation, Inc. 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 handheld 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 at-risk children. Volunteers are needed to help organize, sort items, babysit, and fill orders to ship to children who visit or who are unable to visit the center. 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, where 100% of the sales go to support the FCSF programs and the children. For more information, to be a sponsor, or to volunteer, contact Foster Care Support Foundation, Inc. at (770) 641-9591, email help@fostercares.org or visit www.fostercares.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
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! www.footprintspublishing.com 31
• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24 at 6 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship on December 25 at 10:50 a.m.
Resurrection Anglican Church
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 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Chabad Jewish Center – West Cobb
Where: 4255 Wade Green Road NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw Contact: (678) 460-7702 Website: www.JewishWoodstock.com • 4th Annual Menorah Lighting in Woodstock City Park, December 20 at 6 p.m. Free festivities, Dreidels, Latkies, 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 December 18 at 10:30 a.m.
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 December 24 at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. • Christmas Day Communion Worship Service on December 25 at 5 p.m. 32 My Woodstock | 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.
Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church
Where: 131 Mill Street Contact: (770) 928-1334 Watch Night Services, December 31 at 10 p.m.
Mount Zion Baptist Church
Where: 4096 E. Cherokee Drive Contact: (770) 479-3324 Website: www.mtzb.org • Youth Christmas Musical on Sunday, December 4 at 6:30 p.m. • Adult Christmas Musical on Sunday, December 11 at 6:30 p.m. • Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 18 at 6:30 p.m. • Christmas Eve Communion Service on Saturday, December 24 at 10 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship Service on Sunday, December 25 at 8:30 a.m. only
Mountain View UMC
Where: 2300 Jamerson Road Contact: (770) 928-0050 Website: www.mvumc.org • Live Bethlehem Walk: December 3 – 4, 9 – 10; 7 – 9 p.m. • Christmas Eve Service on December 24: Family Service at 5 p.m.; Candlelight and Communion Service at 7 and 11 p.m. • Christmas Day Service on December 25 at 11 a.m.
New Victoria Baptist Church
Where: 6659 Bells Ferry Road Contact: (770) 926-8448 Website: www.newvicbaptist.org • Lottie Moon International Mission Dinner/Auction on December 4 at 6 p.m. cost is $10 per person, call for reservation. • Children’s Program on December 18 at 6 p.m.
Where: 231 Arnold Mill Road Website: www.resurrectionwoodstock.org • A traditional Christmas Eve Service with Holy Communion on Saturday, December 24 at 6 p.m. • Christmas Worship Service Sunday, December 25 at 10 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 12 a.m. • 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 Wednesday, 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 with Communion on December 25 at 10 a.m.
Woodstock Christian Church
Where: 7700 Hwy 92 Contact: (770) 926-8238 • 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 December 24 at 6:30 p.m. • Christmas Day Worship on December 25 at 10:30 a.m.
Woodstock UMC
Where: 109 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: (770) 516-0371 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.
It’s arame azjuinstgartoouthndinthk the at the holidays
corner! Shopping, compa ny parties, spec ial dinners, family gatherin gs…the coming m on ths are full of festivities and busyness. Le t our community busi nesses simplify so m e of the holiday hust le and bustle — stay 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 Woodstock 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!”
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Rejoice Maids Service (678) 905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com
City On A Hill (678) 445-3480 www.coahumc.com
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Best Dang Bakery Around (770) 928-BEST(2378) www.bestdangbakeryaround.com
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Holiday Activities for the Family December 2 & 3
Holiday Parades aND Santa Sightings December 2 Ball Ground Hometown Christmas Magic Time: 6:30 p.m. Location: Downtown Ball Ground Contact: (770) 735-2123 The city of Ball Ground will hold its annual parade. 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.
Christmas at NorthStar Time: December 2; 4 — 10 p.m. December 3; 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. Location: NorthStar Church, 3413 Blue Springs Road, Kennesaw More than 75 arts and crafts booths, food, entertainment and all types of children’s activities. FREE photos with Santa on Friday from 6 — 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 12 — 3 p.m courtesy of Superior Plumbing. Local entertainment will include 10 local elementary school choruses and various dance groups.
December 3 December 3 Canton Christmas Parade Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Cannon Park 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 in historic downtown Canton from 12 noon — 4 p.m.
December 3 Holly Springs Christmas Parade Time: 3:00 p.m. Location: Holly Springs Parkway Contact: (770) 345-5536 The city of Holly Springs will hold its annual Christmas parade. The parade will be on Holly Springs Parkway beginning at Hiram Way to Hickory Road.
December 3 Woodstock Annual Parade of Lights Time: 5:30 p.m. Location: Downtown Woodstock Kick off the holiday season with Woodstock’s traditional Christmas Jubilee Parade of Lights 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 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! 38 My Woodstock | december 2011
Nutcracker Tea Time: 4:15 p.m. Location: Tea Leaves &Thyme 8990 Main Street, Woodstock Contact: (770) 516-2609
December 3 — 1 1 Back to Bethlehem Time: 7 — 9 p.m. Location: Hopewell Baptist Church 75 Ridge Road, Canton Contact: (770) 345-5723 Be transported back 2,000 years to the ancient city of Bethlehem the night Jesus was born. 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. www.backtobethlehem.com
December 9 Swedish Santa Lucia Celebration Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Trinity Presbyterian Church 3003 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta Contact: (770) 977-8537 This candlelit, music-filled celebration will consist of traditional and contemporary Swedish Christmas music. After the celebration a reception featuring Saffron buns and gingersnaps will be offered in the fellowship hall. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Happy
December 10 Santa’s Shoppe on Sixes Time: 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. Location: Sixes Presbyterian Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton Activities include vendors, crafts, food, free gift wrap, kid’s cookie and craft decorating, and pictures with Santa. www.sixeschurch.org
Magic Reindeer “Food”: 12 — 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 gifts for nature while you are at CNC!
December 18 December 1 1 An Old Fashioned Christmas at the Farm Time: 11:30 a.m. — 4 p.m. (rain date December 18) Location: 1768 Newt Green Road, Cumming Contact: (770) 886-5419 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. www.savethehorses.org
December 17 Main Street Sessions Christmas Celebration Time: 1 p.m. Location: 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 18 CNC Gifts for Nature Time: 1 — 4 p.m., all ages Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Live Reindeer: 1 — 4 p.m. Meet live reindeer at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Don’t forget your camera! Oh Deer: 3 p.m. While visiting the reindeer, stop in for a storytime reading of “Stranger in the Woods.” Kids will love hearing the story of a deer meeting a new friend and getting a favorite treat.
Pre-Chanukah Children’s Program Time: 10:30 a.m. — 12 p.m. Location: Chabad Hebrew School 4255 Wade Green Road, Suite 120, Kennesaw Contact: (678) 460-7702 Website: www.JewishWoodstock.com Join the Dreidel Tournament, make Chanukah crafts, and enjoy refreshments and more.
December 20 4th Annual Menorah Lighting in Cherokee County Time: 6 p.m. Location: Downtown Woodstock City Park Contact: (678) 460-7702 Website: www.JewishWoodstock.com The Chabad Jewish Center – West Cobb will host this free family fun night, Dreidels and Latkes, entertainment and more.
December 24 Christmas Eve Experience Time: 5 p.m. Location: Woodstock City Park Contact: (678) 384-4919 Website: www.ChristmasinWoodstock.com Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Then join Momentum Church for a free and unique Christmas Eve Experience, complete with music, cocoa, an appearance by Santa on a Woodstock Fire engine, and enough snow to play in from 4:30 — 6:15 p.m.
December 27 — 30 CNC Craft Week Time: 11 a.m. — noon, daily Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell Chattahoochee Nature Center will be hosting a craft week for children ages 4 and up. Attendees will get in touch with their crafty side! Help CNC reuse and recycle items to make fun, take-home projects. Different crafts each day!
Holidays!
Holiday Performances December 3 — 4, 21 The Little Drummer Boy Presented by Elm Street Cultural Arts Times: December 3 — 4, 11, 18 at 2 p.m. December 21 at 10 a.m. Location: City Center, 8534 Main Street Website: www.elmstreetarts.org
December 9 — 1 1 Nutcracker Presented by Dancenter South Times: December 9 at 7:30 p.m. December 10 at 2:30, 7:30 p.m. December 11 at 2:30 p.m. Location: Joe Mack Wilson Theater at Southern Poly Tech University Contact: (770) 516-7229 Website: www.dancentersouth.com
December 9 — 10, 22 —24 A Christmas Carol Presented by Elm Street Cultural Arts Times: December 9 at 7:30 p.m. December 10 at 2, 7:30 p.m. December 22 at 7:30 p.m. December 24 at 2 p.m. Location: City Center, 8534 Main Street Website: www.elmstreetarts.org
December 11 Christmas Concert Presented by the Cherokee Chorale Times: December 10 at 5 p.m. December 11 at 3 p.m. Location: Canton First UMC 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: (678) 439-8625 Website: www.cherokeechorale.org
December 15 — 17, 23 4th Annual Star Performance Time: 7 p.m. Location: Cherokee County Arts Center Contact: (404) 277-1736 Website: www.follow-the-star.com
December 15 — 17, 23 It’s a Wonderful Life Presented by Elm Street Cultural Arts Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: City Center, 8534 Main Street Website: www.elmstreetarts.org
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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 self-esteem. 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 40 My Woodstock | 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, it 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 he was actively involved in the process 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 his 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.
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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.
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STAYING HEALTHY During the Holidays
by Jordana Heaven, MD, Shannon Dobson, CPNP, Adriana Rzeznik, MD, Frini Shah, MD, Beverly Acker, MD There is the unfortunate coincidence that every year the holidays and the peak of the cold and flu season occur at the same time. So how do you keep your kids and yourself healthy during this time of year? We are indoors Jordana Heaven, Shannon Dobson, Adriana Rzeznik, Frini Shah and more, sharing closer contact Beverly Acker are all board-certified with others, running to and providers with Woodstock Pediatric from parties, school plays Medicine. To contact them, please call (770) 517-0250 and church gatherings. Our own natural defenses become worn out with the hustle, bustle and stress of the holidays. Our kids are not immune from this. The first thing we recommend is to have your children and yourself vaccinated against the flu. The flu is a nasty virus that will put a child or an adult to bed for 7-10 days with high fever, body aches, congestion, cough, sore throat and overwhelming fatigue. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease control recommend a flu shot for most between the ages of 6 months and 65 years of age. If you have an infant in your home or close contacts, it is recommended that YOU get a flu shot to protect that infant! There are other things that you can do to help arm yourself against colds and the flu. We can never stress enough HAND WASHING, especially for children! Children are curious by nature and touch things: their faces and mouths, each other, the dog and the baby. Make sure your child is getting enough sleep. A rested body is better able to fight off diseases! Same goes for mom and dad. Most children need ten hours of sleep and most of us grown-ups need at least eight. How about diet during the holidays? We all know we eat a little different from our regular norms during the holidays and that’s ok. But try to make sure there is a little nutrition to your holidays, too. Your body is still taking care of daily business and needs the vitamins and minerals now more than ever. Hydration anyone? The winter is DRY. The air is dry and the heat from the furnace is dry. This lack of humidity causes our nasal passages to become dry and less able to fight off the air born viruses that are circulating. Make sure your kids are drinking plenty of water and run a cool mist humidifier in their rooms if possible (make sure the humidifier is clean and always away from little hands). continued on page 62 44 My Woodstock | december 2011
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SHOULD YOU START Your Baby on Cereal?
by Cathy Wendland-Colby, DC I recently was asked to weigh in on an old debate regarding introducing infant cereal at 4, 5 or 6 months old to help baby sleep better at night. Read the label on any infant cereal on the market and you will see that it is predominantly Dr. Wendland-Colby is a chiropractor carbohydrates. Carbohydrates in private practice with her husband at Colby Family Chiropractic on make you sleepy because Highway 92 in Woodstock, specializing they cause your body to in sports and family care. She can be produce hormones (serotonin) reached at 770-592-1915 or associated with sleeping. www.ColbyChiropractic.com. So when our parents and grandparents added some infant cereal to our bottles full of cow’s milk or formula at 3 or 4 weeks old, they were doing it because someone else told them it would help the baby sleep. And it did. Alcohol has the same effect, but we don’t give alcohol to our babies, right? So here’s where tradition and education hit a huge crossroad — baby’s gut isn’t fully developed – that’s correct. When is it fully developed? That’s dependent on multiple factors including genetics and mom’s pregnancy habits. So to give an exact date would be a disservice. There is a gradual development of the baby’s intestinal flora and therefore ability to digest different foods. And yes, much of it is developed in response to exposure. Exposure, however, comes in many forms: the dirty rock baby licked outside; the toys that went in the mouth that 10 other sniffling kids played with in the last 20 minutes; the pet dander on the couch; and the bacteria that you tracked in on the bottom of your shoes that now resides on your living room rug. Let’s not forget the birth process after all, there is a reason the baby exits the birth canal so close to the single largest bacteria concentration on our bodies. But we also have to consider the exposure to (hopefully) a wide variety of foods that mom has eaten which are being passed through the milk. I’m a huge proponent of exclusive breastfeeding for a minimum of 6 months and longer if possible. I understand there are rare situations where mom cannot produce milk; for now let’s discuss best possible scenario. Even the World Health organization has recommended 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding for all babies. Exclusive meaning nothing, not even water, goes into that baby except breast milk. Baby’s sick and you’re worried about dehydration — more breast milk. Baby’s hungry, tired, cranky, growing, cutting continued on page 62 46 My Woodstock | december 2011
FOOD CHOICES And Dental Health
by Vishant Nath, DMD The foods that we expose our teeth to are the first line of defense against tooth decay. Our diet can go a long way towards determining our dental health. The second line of defense is how we clean our teeth. We often put more Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Roswell Pediatric Dentistry. You may emphasis on the cleaning contact him at (678) 352-1090 part. There are a multitude of or visit www.kidshappyteeth.com. brushes, toothpaste, and other cleaning gadgets that we are bombarded with in the dental aisle. Although these are important tools in keeping our teeth healthy, they are not the only items to consider. Sometimes we may overlook the fact that, especially with children, we can improve their dental health (and overall health) by teaching them to make wise choices in their diets. This article serves as a gentle reminder of what most of us probably already know regarding making healthy food choices. As stated above, most of us already know which foods are healthy and which are not so good for us. But when our lives get busy, it often seems easier to make the not so healthy food choices. Having a healthy diet is especially important for our growing children. Children must have a balanced diet for their teeth to develop properly. A balanced diet will also provide for healthy gum tissue around the teeth. Diets that are high in certain kinds of carbohydrates, such as sugar and starches, may cause a greater risk of tooth decay. So let’s be practical, where does that leave you regarding your child’s diet? We all know how impossible (along with impractical and unhealthy) it would be to try and eliminate all sugar and starches from your child’s diet. So, along with what your child eats, we also have to look at when your child eats certain foods. It’s best to select and serve these types of foods wisely. A food with sugar or starch is safer for teeth if it’s eaten with a meal, not as a snack. Also, sticky foods, such as dried fruit or toffee, are not easily washed away from the teeth by saliva, water or milk. So, they have more cavity-causing potential than foods more rapidly cleared from the teeth. Of course the bottom line is, no matter what your child eats, dental hygiene is vitally important to keeping your child’s teeth healthy. Try to get in the habit of wiping your baby’s teeth before they nap or go to bed at night. And for older children, try to establish an after meal brushing habit. Brushing and flossing are truly your last line of defense against tooth decay. A healthy diet plus good dental hygiene equals healthy teeth for life!
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THE GREAT Pretender
by Dr. Monika Yadav 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 Dr. Monika Yadav is an Internist with and might not be able to keep Internal Medicine Associates who their membership at the gym. practices in Holly Spring and Jasper. 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.
“
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.
”
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 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 and norepinephrine that play a role in making us 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. 48 My Woodstock | december 2011
THE IMPORTANCE Of Your Vehicle’s Heating and Cooling System
by Rick Foltz Beyond the comforts offered by being able to control the temperature inside your vehicle, your auto’s heating and cooling systems are necessary in preventing your ride from breaking down due to incredibly high operating temperatures.
Rick Foltz is the Fixed Operations Director at Cherokee Ford. You may contact him at (770) 592-0090 or rfoltz@cherokeeford.com.
Checking your auto’s cooling and heating systems is particularly crucial in the weeks preceding the subfreezing winter season and the sweltering heat of summer. But it’s more advisable that you check these systems every time you conduct a routine car check-up or you engage in basic vehicle maintenance. Every time you drive, your radiator uses up coolant and water mixture to help lower the temperatures in your vehicle’s engine system. The longer and the faster you drive, the bigger the stress on your engine, allowing temperatures to skyrocket to incredible heights leading to the increased likelihood of overheating. Because of the coolant’s crucial role in maintaining your engine’s efficiency, you need to keep your ride equipped with the right coolant mixture (pretty much the same way you’d pick out the right type of gas for your car). Coolant, like all the other fluids used by your vehicle, has a tendency to break down over time. This is why you need to replace your coolant mixture once in a while. When the coolant breaks down, more stress is placed on your radiator and your engine begins to run hotter than normal. Gunk and mineral deposits also build up under your vehicle’s hood, effectively reducing your vehicle’s overall performance. Prolonged use of bad coolant can also result to radiator damage, requiring you to replace your radiator sooner than you actually have to. How Often Do You Need to Flush Out Your Cooling System? The frequency required by your vehicle may depend on the type of auto you own and the weather conditions. If you live in an area that has moderate climates, then you can flush out your vehicle’s cooling system once a year. If, however, you live in an area known for its harsh winters and/or sizzling summers, then you may need to change your coolant mixture twice a year — at the start of summer and at the start of winter. Browse through your owner’s manual for more information on this matter.
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YOU HAVE Room To Expand
by Dan Jape A few weeks ago I received a letter from 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 in our plumbing system to prevent Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating and Air. You may contact him possible damage to our home. at (770) 594-9096 or visit him online All cities and counties have at www.reliableair.com. 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 cause damage to the water heater and the temperature/ 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 you should check with the water department to see when they are scheduled to do your home if you are a resident of Cherokee. 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. They are round cylinders installed above or adjacent to the water heater and they contain a bladder filled with air pressure that allows the excessive pressure a place to expand to. 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 recently 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. He found out the hard way that thermal expansion tanks should be changed every 5 or 6 years according to the manufacturer. They are very easy to change once you continued on page 62 50 My Woodstock | december 2011
OPTIMISM FOR A Happy 2012 and Beyond! by Patrick J. Rice, Jr. Why do so many businesses continue to invest and innovate despite headlines emphasizing negative economic conditions and risks in the world financial markets? The reason is likely because they are optimistic about the potential future rewards on these investments.
Be optimistic about the future. You will be rewarded over the long term. Let us know if we can help you make it a GREAT NEW YEAR in 2012!
Patrick J. Rice, Jr. is a Renasant Wealth Management Investment Advisor of Renasant Bank. You may contact him at (678) 388-5342, price@renasant.com or visit www.renasantbank.com.
The global economy is constantly changing and creating new opportunities for smart business leaders. Technological advances allow the creative process of innovation to move faster. People from across town or across the globe can share new information, discoveries and opportunities in real time. The result is improved productivity for business owners that can dramatically accelerate and increase the rewards on investments. Some call it creative destruction. I prefer to think of it as progress.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Renasant Bank and Renasant Financial Services are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial. Article provided by Patrick Rice, Renasant Wealth Management, price@renasant.com
Combine investment and innovation with the energy of smart, talented people who want a better life and you get the potential for a significantly positive economic impact in any city, state or country. Successful companies such as Procter and Gamble, Apple and Coca-Cola started small but have grown through investment and innovation. I am optimistic there are thousands of entrepreneurs starting small companies today that may grow into big companies like these. That is where the jobs will be created. How can this benefit you? By participating as an investor in the global economy, you can benefit directly from dividends, interest and share price appreciation. Our world is a global market place so we must expand our investments beyond the United States. At Renasant, we recognize that poor economic conditions will not last forever. Millions of people are working hard to solve problems and improve our economy. I believe they (we) will be successful. As you celebrate traditions with family and friends in your community this holiday season, remember to celebrate our great country and the potential for innovation all around us.
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THE Best Gift
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 or visit www.jylcraven.com. holiday pictures and videos 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
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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.
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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!
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
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. www.footprintspublishing.com 53
I AM Christmas
by Laurie Troublefield
Picture it with me. . . Moses has been hiding in the desert for forty years (fleeing Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was beating an Israelite) and he’s got himself a nice set up – family, a new career – “normalcy”. One day while tending his sheep, Moses spots Laurie Troublefield is the director of training with Grace Connections. a fire burning and goes to You may contact her at check it out. A bush is on fire laurie@graceconnectionsonline.org but it’s not burning up. And right from the middle of the flames come a voice. . . “Moses, Moses!” Can you imagine it? What would be your reaction? Run? Hide? Draw near? As Moses and GOD have a conversation about the next step in his life, Moses begins to ask a lot of questions (I think I may have asked A LOT more)! And God has some pretty amazing answers for him, and ones that have amazing implications you may not have ever thought about, especially in the context
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of Christmas. What on earth does Moses have to do with Christmas? One of the questions Moses asks God in this encounter was, “Who am I?” He was confused to be sure about this whole experience but the deeper questions of his heart came out when he responded to God’s request of him “WHO AM I?” Most of us at some time or another in our human journey will come to this same place, wondering in the midst of some crazy experience that requires way more of us than we believe is there, and then asking that same question: “Who am I?” It’s one of the two most foundational questions we will ever ask in our life. (Moses soon follows up with the second – “Who are YOU?”) God’s answer to Moses is what astounds me. He didn’t give him accolades, “You can do it,” or tell him to just not worry about it. He answered him clearly, but not in the way you might expect. He told him, “I will be with you!” What? How does that answer the question? Oh, but it does! One of the names of Jesus is Immanuel, which means, “God with us!” Do you see the connection. . . Jesus, who is the very definition of Christmas, is named by the answer to Moses’ question, “Who am I?” “I will be with you!” It must have continued on page 62
FROM THE PASTOR A Gift For You
by Herb Sims It’s almost Christmas and here is a gift for you. We have NO responsibilities to God, none, zero. I made this statement and asked this question to our church. It prompted quite a bit of conversation with much of it leading to Jesus. I have Herb Sims is the pastor of Gracelife found that it is incredibly Church. You may contact him at difficult for people to receive (404) 509-3397. the gift of being free from responsibility because on this earth, in the realm of the seen, we have responsibilities. These responsibilities are identified by verbal or written communication. That communication could be viewed as a contract. The contract would detail the individual’s responsibilities that have been agreed upon. No doubt I had contracts with my kids, “You do this and I will do that,” or with my wife Tracy, “You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.”
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We have NO responsibilities to God, none, zero.
”
Inside the miracle of relationships that are found in Christ we discover ourselves moving from contractual responsibilities (making deals) to responding in Truth and Grace. As New Creations we truly “Do what we want to do!” And these want to’s display a righteousness and holiness only found in the Kingdom of Heaven. Do we really trust in the completeness of what He has done? To continue to live by responsibility is to continue to live under the law. We are no longer slaves to the weak and worthless elemental things, but are now slaves of righteousness. We live in the reality of sonship because He sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts. Jesus lived from the security of relationship with the Father, we do the same. We are people of the Spirit not people of the list of responsibilities.
As God reveals more of who I am and who He is in my life, my relationships with others change. No longer do I base the relationship on others accomplishing their responsibilities to me. I see them with eyes that don’t regard them by their ability to be responsible. This frees me from rescuing them from failure and allows me to be with them when they experience the consequences (weakness) of not being responsible. Possibly those we are in relationship with discover that Life is about something other than living successful, responsible lives. It is about the miracle of Jesus. In Him we are not responsible, now we find ourselves responding in love. What a gift of Love!
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RELIGIOUS SERVICES Baptist Calvary Baptist
New Victoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 926-8448 Sunday Services: 10:50 a.m. www.newvicbaptist.org
Episcopal Episcopal Church of the Annunciation
137 Hightower Road, (770) 887-6982 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.calvarybaptistweb.com
North Arnold Mill Baptist Church 4206 N. Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-8087
1673 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-7916 Sunday Services: 8:30, 10 a.m. www.annunciationepiscopal.org
Cherokee Baptist Church
South Cherokee Baptist Church
Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church
7770 Hickory Flat Highway, (770) 720-3399 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org
Faith Community Church 659 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 516-1996 Sunday Services: 8 & 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.faithcommunitychurch.org
First Baptist Church of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, (770) 926-4428 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.fbcw.org
Mt. Olive Baptist Church
7504 Highway 92, (770) 926-0422
Stonecrest Baptist Church 485 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-8820 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.stonecrestbaptist.org
4096 E. Cherokee Drive, (770) 479-3324 Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. www.mtzb.org
Mountain View Baptist Church 8991 E. Cherokee Drive, (770) 880-0871 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.mv-batist.com
New Home Baptist Church Conner of Hwy 92 & Wiley Bridge Rd Woodstock, Ga
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Jewish
Toonigh Baptist Church 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon, (770) 928-2491 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.toonighbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com
Chabad Jewish Center
Welcome All Baptist Church
Congregation Ner Tamid
545 Stell Road, (770) 928-0555
131 Mill Street, (770) 928-1334
Mount Zion Baptist Church
2795 Ridge Road, Canton, (770) 345-6722 Sunday Services: 8, 9, 11 a.m. www.stclementscanton.org
Catholic Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church 2941 Sam Nelson Road, (770) 479-8923 Sunday Services: 8, 10:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (Español) www.lasalettecanton.com
1635 Old US Highway 41, (770) 771-9952 www.jewishwoodstock.com
Reform Jewish Congregation, (678) 264-8575 Contact us for High Holiday Service times and dates www.mynertamid.org
Tikvah l’Chaim - Hope for Life Messianic Congregation 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, (678) 936-4125 Shabbat Services: 11 a.m. Call for Details Concerning High Holy Days www.tlchaim.com
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 516-0009
Lutheran
Christ The Redeemer 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, (404) 395-5003 www.ctrcec.com
Timothy Lutheran Church, LC-MS 556 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 928-2812
Orthodox St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church 2263 E. Cherokee Dr., (770) 485-0504 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.stelizabethga.org
Presbyterian Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA 1498 Johnson Brady Road, (770) 704-9594 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.cherokee-pca.org
Geneva Orthodox Presbyterian Church 471 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 833-3797 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. www.genevaopc.org
Woodstock Presbyterian Church 345 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-0074 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. woodstockpcusa.com
Methodist Big Springs United Methodist Church 2066 Sugar Pike Road, (770) 475-1796 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.
City On A Hill A New United Methodist Church 7745 Main Street, (678) 445-3480 Saturday Service: 6:30 p.m. Sunday Services: 9:35 & 11:15 a.m. www.coahumc.org
Little River United Methodist Church 12455 Highway 92, (770) 926-2495 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.littleriverumc.info
Mount Gilead United Methodist Church 889 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 591-0837 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. Sunday School: 10 a.m.
Mountain View United Methodist Church 2300 Jamerson Road, (770) 928-0050 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.mvumc.org
Woodstock United Methodist Church 109 Towne Lake Parkway, (770) 516-0371 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.gbgm-umc.org/woodstockumc-ga
Other Churches Allen Temple, AME Church 232 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 926-6348 Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m. www.allentempleame.org
Bells Ferry Church of God
Greater Bethel Community Church
6718 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 592-2956 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.bellsferry.com
211 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 592-9900 revfreeman@yahoo.com
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, (770) 917-4964 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.branchesofchrist.com
BridgePointe Church Meeting at Woodstock High School Auditorium 2000 Towne Lake Hills South Drive, (770) 517-2977 Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m. www.bridgepointechurch.org
Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist 101 Rope Mill Road, (770) 591-7304 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www. cherokee.netadvent.org
Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta 6464 Highway 92, (770) 924-9161 www.ctkatlanta.com
Church at North Gate 9876 Main Street, (678) 494-2193 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.ngca.org
Hickory Flat Church of God 4056 E. Cherokee Dr., (770) 345-5969 Sunday Services: 9:20 & 11 a.m. www.hickoryflatumc.org
The Lighthouse Church 18271 Union Hill Road, (770) 664-3644
Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road Acworth, (404) 663-1828 Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.lovecommunitychurch.org
Momentum Church 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, (678) 384-4919 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. www.momentumchurch.tv
Morning Star Church 1006 Owens Store Road, Canton, (678) 794-7486 Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.morningstarcanton.com
Resurrection Anglican Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, (770) 591-0040 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.resurrectionwoodstock.org
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Sunnyside Church of God
Woodstock Ward, (770) 926-7230 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.lds.org
2510 E. Cherokee Drive, (770) 693-1018 Sunday Services: 11:15 a.m. www.sunnysidecog.org
Church of the Messiah
Towne Lake Community Church
415 Charles Cox Drive, (770) 479-5280 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.churchofthemessiah.net
132 N. Medical Parkway, (678) 445-8766 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.tlcchurch.com
Cornerstone Community Church
Watermarke Church
503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.ccchurchonline.org
Meeting at American Heritage Academy 2126 Sixes Roas, Canton (770) 928-8235 Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m. www.watermarkechurch.com
Covenant Christian Center Worship Annex
Woodstock Christian Church
330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, (770) 345-0307 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.cityofcovenant.org
7700 Highway 92, (770) 926-8238 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.woodstockchristian.org
Covenant of Peace Ministries
Woodstock Church of Christ
604 Industrial Court, (770) 821-8972 Sunday Services: 12 p.m. www.covenantofpeace.org
219 Rope Mill Road, (770) 926-8838 Servico En Espanol Domingo, (770) 926-8271 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org
Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Drive, (770) 516-5733 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.dayspring-online.com
Empowerment Tabernacle Christian Church 507 Industrial Drive, (770) 928-7478 Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.empowermenttabernacle.com
Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 924-4499 Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. www.wcnga.com
Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, (770) 926-8990 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.wcchurch.org
Grace Life Church 655 Molly Lane, Suite 140,(404) 509-3397 Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.gracelifeonline.org
Allpoints Community Church 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, (678) 493-3430 Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.allpointschurch.com
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CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
Business Organizations
American Business Women’s Association Meeting: Contact:
Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Lori Matthewson, (770) 720-6274
Cherokee Area Business Connection Meeting: Every Wednesday at 7:15 a.m. Contact: Marci Zied, (770) 345-8687
Cherokee Toastmasters Meeting: Every Wednesday at noon Contact: (678) 361-3553
Main Street Woodstock Meeting: First Friday at 8 a.m. Website: www.mainstreetwoodstock.org
North Georgia Referral Network Meeting: Contact:
Tuesdays at 7:30 a.m. (678) 361-3553
Together We Rise Meeting: Contact:
Second and fourth Tuesdays Pat Snipes, (404) 569-5280
Women of Woodstock Meeting: Contact:
First and third Wednesdays (770) 928-2700
Woodstock Community Business Association
The Hope Center
South Cherokee Optimist Club
Contact: (770) 924-0864 Website: www.hopectr.com
Meeting: Every Friday at 7:30 a.m. Contact: (770) 926-3522
Hospice Advantage
Towne Lake Optimist Club
Contact: (770) 218-1997 Website: www.hospiceadvantage.com
ICOR
Meeting: Every Wednesdays at J. Christophers (Woodstock) Contact: Jack Futch, (678) 778-0722 Website: www.townelakeoptimists.com
Contact: (404) 992-8155 Website: www.iCORorphans.com
Woodstock Jaycees
Pet Buddies Food Pantry
Meeting: Contact:
Contact: Heather Ballance, (678) 310-9858 Website: www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org
Woodstock Masons
MUST Ministries Contact: Kim Loesing, (770) 479-5397 Website: www.mustministries.org
Papa’s Pantry Contact: Lynne Saunders, (770) 591-4730 Website: www.papaspantry.org
Cherokee Child Advocacy Council Contact: Mary Migliaro, (770) 345-8100 Website: www.cherokeechildadvocates.org
Cherokee County Family Child Care Association Contact:
(770) 926-8055
Cherokee County Humane Society Contact: (770) 928-5115 Website: www.cchumanesociety.org
Cherokee County Special Olympics Meeting: Contact:
First Monday at 7 p.m. Colleene Konwick, (770) 517-7101
Companion Animal Connection Contact: (678) 493-9847 Website: www.cacadopt.petfinder.com
Woodstock Midday Optimist Club Meeting: Every Wednesday at noon Contact: Johnny Young, (770) 345-6158
Political Organizations
Contact: Chad Arp, (678) 493-4343 Website: www.cherokeesafekids.org
Contact: (678) 269-6677 Website: www.VAC-cherokeega.org
Cherokee County Democratic Party Meeting: Third Monday at 7 p.m. Contact: Judy Hamilton, (770) 380-7071 Website: www.cherokeedems.com
Cherokee County Republican Party
Meeting: Second Monday at noon Contact: info@woodstockcba.com
Charitable Organizations
Masonic Lodge #246 F. & A. M., Inc. Meeting: Second and fourth Thurs. at 7:30 p.m. Contact: Charles Sharp, (770) 928-6140
Safe Kids Cherokee County
Volunteer Aging Council of Cherokee County
First Tues. and third Thurs. at 7 p.m. (770) 926-8336
Civic Organizations AARP Woodstock Chapter Meeting: Contact:
Second Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. Rich, (770) 926-1944
American Legion & Auxiliary, Post 316
Meeting: Contact:
Fourth Monday at 7 p.m. Breakfast first Saturday at 8 a.m. Conrad Quagliaroli, (770) 592-6545
Cherokee County Republican Women Meeting: Third Thursday at 6 p.m. Contact: (678) 520-2236 Website: www.ccrwcga.com
Meeting: Third Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Contact: George Wallace, (770) 354-6454 Website: www.alpost316.org
Cherokee County Teen Republicans
Hickory Flat Optimist Club
Republican Women of Cherokee County
Meeting: Contact:
First and third Tuesdays Alan Flint, (770) 720-9056
Contact: (678) 232-7488 Website: www.cherokeecountytrs.webs.com
Meeting: Second Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Contact: RWCC Headquarters, (678) 520-2236 Website: www.rwccga.com
Junior Service League of Woodstock 24-hour information line: (770) 592-3535
Recreation & Hobbies
Kiwanis Club of Woodstock Meeting: Every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. Contact: (678) 494-4841 Website: www.woodstockkiwanis.org
Allatoona Gold Panners
Lions Club of Woodstock
Arts Alliance of Georgia, Inc.
Feed My Lambs, Inc.
Meeting: Second and fourth Tues. at 7 p.m. Contact: Ed Cook, (770) 906-2958
Contact: (770) 795-9349 Website: www.feedmylambs.net
Pilot Club of Cherokee County
Contact:
Rob Kelly, (770) 516-7044
Meeting: Second Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Contact: Madeline Hall, (678) 754-8482, woodstockartcenter@comcast.net
Blue Skies Laughter Club
Genesis Adoptions
Contact: Lynda Goodwin at (770) 393-1766 Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com
Contact: (770) 517-0043 Website: www.genesis-adoptions.org
Rotary Club of Woodstock
Meeting: Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Contact: Craig Whitley, (404) 520-0221 Website: www.addlaughter.com
Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta
Meeting: Every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. Contact: (404) 506-6878
Cherokee Amateur Radio Society
Contact: (404) 862-6180, lmartin@gsgatl.org Website: www.gsgatl.org
Sewrifics of Cherokee
Habitat for Humanity Contact: (770) 345-1024 Website: www.habitat-ncg.org
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Meeting: Contact:
Third Tuesday at 7 p.m. Sheri Torch, (770) 591-8335
Sons of the American Legion Meeting: Contact:
Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Charles Tucker, (678) 643-0794
Meeting: Second Saturday at 10 a.m. Contact: Jim Millsap, (770) 928-8590 Website: www.cherokeehams.com
Cherokee County Arts Center Meeting: Fourth Friday at 10 a.m. Contact: (770) 704-6244 Website: www.CherokeeArts.org
Cherokee County Saddle Club
Canadian Women’s Club
La Leche League of South Cherokee
Meeting: Third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Road Contact: Tamma Trump, (770) 655-0819 Website: www.cherokeesaddleclub.com
Meeting: Contact:
Meeting: Contact:
Cherokee Fencing Club Meeting: Beginners, Wednesday at 5 p.m. Club, Wednesday at 6 p.m. Contact: Andy McCann, (678) 494-9750 Website: www.cherokeefencingclub.com
Cherokee MOTS (Mom’s of Tots)
Third Wednesday Lesley Frappier, cwcatlanta@yahoo.com
First Tuesday at 10 a.m. Marguerite, (770) 926-2791
CASA for Children, Inc.
Miracle Mothers
Contact: Deidre Hollands, (770) 345-3274 Website: www.casaforchildren.org
Contact: Melissa, (770) 516-1078 Website: www.miraclemothers.org
Celebrate Recovery
MOMS Club Woodstock — 30188
Meeting: Fridays at 6 p.m. Contact: Debbie Anthros, (770) 331-6685 ganthros@windstream.net
Contact: momsclubwoodstockn@yahoo.com
Mothers & More
Contact: (770) 272-5388 Website: www.meetup.com/cherokee-mots
Cherokee Autism Spectrum Support Group
Meeting: First and third Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Contact: Michelle Wise, (770) 720-8834 Website: www.woodstockmm.com
Cherokee Music Teachers Association
Contact:
Nar-Anon Meeting
Contact: Suzanne Hosea, (404) 667-4733 Website: www.cherokeemta.org
Cherokee Outdoor YMCA Contact:
(770) 591-5820
Dog Hikers of Georgia Meeting: Sundays at 10 a.m. Contact: Dr. Daniel C. Batchelor, (770) 992-2362 Website: home.aol.com/DrBatch
Foothills Running Club Contact:
Third Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Larry Lodisio, (770) 516-5197
North Atlanta Soccer Association Contact: Michele Fox, (770) 926-4175 Website: www.nasa-ga.org
North Cobb Bass Club Contact: 770-820-3945 Website: www.northcobbbass.com
Wildlife Action, Inc. Meeting: Contact:
Third Sunday at 1 p.m. WLA Office, (800) 753-2264
Woodstock Youth Track Club Practice: Contact:
C.H.O.O.S.E. of Woodstock Meeting: First Monday at 7 p.m. 24-hour information line: (770) 517-3043
Depression and Bipolar Support Group Meeting: Contact:
Second and fourth Tues. at 7:30 p.m. (770) 560-7112
Meeting: Every Monday at 8 p.m. Contact: (404) 218-0246
National Alliance for Mental Illness Support Group Meeting: Second and fourth Tues. at 7 p.m. Contact: Jill, (404) 394-1229 Website: www.nami.org
Diabetes Support Group
National Psoriasis Foundation Support Group
Meeting: Contact:
Meeting: Contact:
Fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. (678) 493-1503
First Tuesday at 7 p.m. Scott Bell, (404) 218-6626
John McCusker, (770) 924-9504
Les Marmitons Meeting: Contact:
Heidi, hcf67@comcast.net Renee, mrjperrelli@yahoo.com
Mon., Tues., and Thurs. at 6 p.m. Michael Dahlhauser, (404) 654-0093
Emotions Anonymous
Over-eaters Anonymous
Meeting: Contact:
Meeting: Every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Contact: Lois, (770) 592-6421
Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Cindy, (770) 928-6554
Fellowship of Companies for Christ International Meeting: Contact:
Second and fourth Thurs. at 7 a.m. Randall Hill, (770) 516-5887
GRANDparents Raising GRANDchildren Meeting: Contact:
Second and fourth Tuesdays at 7 p.m. (678) 699-3400
Hearing loss association of America Chapter meeting information: (770) 517-2941 Contact: marlenephillips15@yahoo.com
Jewish Havurah Contact:
Marcia, (770) 345-8687
S.N.A.P — Special Needs Awareness Program Meeting: Contact:
Second Monday at 10 a.m. (770) 720-4068
Tender Hearts Caregivers Support Group Meeting: Contact:
Second and fourth Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Robin Galloway, (770) 517-5899
The Way Group, AA Meeting: Monday - Friday at 11 a.m. Contact: Hillside UMC
TOPS #0533 — A Weight Support Group Meets at Woodstock UMC’s Latimer Hall Meeting: Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Contact: (770) 516-0371
Zack Walk Singles Mixer Contact: Karen Sacandy, (404) 452-9980 Website: www.Zachwalk.com
Support Organizations Adoption/Infertility Support Group Meeting: Contact:
First Wednesday at 7 p.m. Cindy Braddock, (678) 445-3131
Alzheimer/Dementia Support Group Meeting: Contact:
First Thursday at 7 p.m. (770) 926-0119
American Cancer Society 24/7 information line: (800) 227-2345
Autism Parent Support Group Meeting: Contact:
Second Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Sharon Jones, (770) 345-6551
Breast Cancer Support Group Meeting: Contact:
First Thursday (404) 843-1880
www.footprintspublishing.com 59
ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS
Juvenile Court:
United States Government
President Barack Obama (D)
(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov
Court of Clerks: Patty Baker
(202) 224-3521 GA: (770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
Senate Russell Courtyard-2 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov
P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 Website: http://tom.house.gov
Rep. John Linder (R), District 7 90 North Street, Suite 360 Canton, GA 30114-2724 Website: www.linder.house.gov
(202) 224-3643 GA: (770) 661-0999 fax: (770) 661-0768
(202) 225-4501 GA: (770) 565-4990 fax: (770) 565-7570 (202) 225-4272 GA: (770) 479-1888 fax: (770) 497-2999
(678) 493-6511 (678) 493-6000 fax: (678) 493-6013
Board of Commissioners Buzz Ahrens (R), Chair
(678) 493-6511
email: lbahrens@cherokeega.com
Harry Johnston (R), Post 1
hjohnston@cherokeega.com
Jim Hubbard (R), Post 2
jhubbard@cherokeega.com
Karen Bosch (R), Post 3
kbosch@cherokeega.com
Jason A. Nelms (R), Post 4
jnelms@cherokeega.com
Board of Education Robert Wofford, Post 1
State Government
Governor Nathan Deal (R)
(678) 493-6250 (678) 493-6280
1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton, GA 30114 www.cherokeega.gov
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R)
Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6
Judge John B. Sumner Judge M. Anthony Baker
(770) 345-6256
e-mail: robert.wofford@cherokee.k12.ga.us
(404) 656-1776 fax: (404) 657-7332
203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Website: www.gov.ga.gov.com
Mike Chapman (R), Post 2
(770) 704-4398, x4372
e-mail: mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us
Michael Geist, Post 3
State Senator Chip Rogers (R) (D-21)
(404) 463-1378 fax: (404) 657-9887
325-A Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: chip.rogers@senate.ga.gov
Janet Read (R), Post 4 (Chair)
(404) 656-7127 fax: (404) 463-1381
304-B Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov
Rick Steiner (R), Post 5
(770) 704-4398, x4370
e-mail: rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us
Rob Usher, Post 6
State Rep. Charlice Byrd (R) (D-20)
(404) 656-0298 fax: (404) 463-2793
608 Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov
(770) 928-0341
e-mail: rob.usher@cherokee.k12.ga.us
Kim Cochran (R), Post 7
(678) 983-9644
e-mail: kimcochran@gmail.com
State Rep. Calvin Hill (R) (D-21)
613 Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: chill@gilainc.com
(404) 656-0129 fax: (404) 463-7778
Other Cherokee County Schools System
State Rep. Sean Jerguson (R) (D-22)
(404) 656-0287
607 Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: sean@electsean.com
Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo 110 Academy Street, Canton, GA 30114 e-mail: drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us
Cherokee County Coroner: Earl W. Darby
(770) 479-1871 fax: (770) 479-1236
(404) 362-1600
480 Main Street, Canton, GA 30114
Courts
Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office:
Superior Court: Chief Judge Frank C. Mills,III Judge Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea
(678) 493-6270 (678) 493-6260 (678) 493-6240
State Court:
(678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6480 (678) 493-6490
Magistrate Court: Judge James E. Drane III (R)
(678) 493-6431
Probate Court: Judge Keith Wood (R)
(678) 493-6160
60 My Woodstock | december 2011
(770) 516-1444
e-mail: janet.read@cherokee.k12.ga.us
State Senator Jack Murphy (R) (D-27)
Judge Clyde J.Gober, Jr. Judge A. Dee Morris Judge W. Alan Jordan
(404) 462-4950
e-mail: michael.geist@cherokee.k12.ga.us
(678) 493-4200 fax: (770) 493-4228
Sheriff Roger Garrison, R 498 Chattin Drive, Canton, GA 30115 email: rdgarrison@cherokeega.com Website: www.cherokeega-sheriff.org
Cherokee County Tax Commissioner: Sonya Little, R
(678) 493-6409
2780 Marietta Hwy, Canton, GA 30114 email: slittle@cherokeega.com
City of Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques dhenriques@progressiveaudiology.com
(770) 592-6000, x1003
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Staying Healthy
continued from page 44
What to do if you have a sick child on the holidays? Stay home! Your child does not feel well and will feel better at home. Antibiotics will not make your child magically better by the “Big Day.” Colds and flu are viral and antibiotics are not effective. If you have questions, ALWAYS call your child’s healthcare provider. Happy Holidays!
I Am Christmas
continued from page 54
seemed such a strange answer to Moses; but we, who have both stories to read, can see exactly what God was telling him, “You are defined by MY presence with you.” Isn’t that amazing? It has NOTHING to do with what we do. . . it’s all about Him. As you celebrate Christmas this year, I encourage you to ask Immanuel to reveal to you this same Truth. . . He IS Christmas. And you, well, He is WITH you. That’s who you are. Now that’s something to cause us to rejoice and worship. Merry Christmas beloved of God and may 2012 be lived from the reality of the Christ who lives IN you!
Start Your Baby on Cereal?
continued from page 46
teeth, happy, healthy? Great — more breast milk. With EBF, or exclusive breastfeeding, a major concern is the long-term effect on baby from introducing foods too soon. Yes, baby may sleep well with a full belly, and may not even wake up throughout the night to feed. But is that really our goal? A few extra minutes of sleep for us at the expense of their lifelong health? When you think back over all of the things you’ve done and the sacrifices you’ve made for your babies, are a few extra minutes of sleep really that important? Besides, if you’re sharing a bed with your baby, you shouldn’t have to wake up for baby to nurse. So as you can tell, I’m passionate about this, very passionate. While 6 months is the minimum recommendation, I prefer to see moms EBF for the first year. Lower incidence of food allergies, asthma, type 2 diabetes, etc. For baby’s first foods, provided mom is still nursing, I prefer vegetables so that babies develop a strong liking for veggies. At the end of the day, you have to ultimately make the decisions for you and your family. We are here to help provide you with some options.
Room To Expand
continued from page 50
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 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 are scheduled to install it. 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.
62 My Woodstock | december 2011
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local,
Home Improvement/Repair/Service
Automotive C&T Auto Cherokee Ford Edwards Tire Hickory Flat Hwy. Automotive My Mechanic Joe
47 11 17 17 50
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Your Community
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners Carpet Dry Tech
Chiropractors 21
Churches HG-34 23
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63 Inside Front Cover
Physicians & Medical Services Canton ENT Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists Georgia Hypnotherapy Associates Internal Medicine Associates ISIS OB/GYN Meridian Surgical Northside Hospital – Cherokee Northside Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine Plastic Surgery Center of the South WellStar Health Systems / TowneLake Urgent Care Woodstock Family & Urgent Care Woodstock Pediatric Medicine
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Inside Front Cover HG-36 46
5 3 15
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Services/Retailers/Miscellaneous Anderson Pawn Canton Jewelry Charlies II The Cherokee Corale Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County Historical Society Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Ghostnet, Inc. Main Street Woodstock Premier Pools Enterprises Seeking Sitters Woodstock Market & Show
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Bedoe’s Bar & Grill Best Dang Bakery Around Goin’ Coastal Grand Slam Pizza Iron Horse Restaurant Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi
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Education/Instruction/Counseling Chattahoochee Technical College
55 27 3
Interior Decor & Accents/Services Decorating Den Pineapple Park
9 Back Cover 21 Inside Back Cover
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Dr. Fixit PhD Mr. Junk Reliable Heating, Air and Plumbing
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Businesses listed in bold italic type denote new or returning advertisers
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MY Woodstock MONTHLY
64 My Woodstock | december 2011
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