How-To Guide February 2013

FEBRUARY 2013

ARTS

>> HOW TO CHOOSE A DANCE STUDIO

HEALTH

<< HOW TO CHOOSE A HOSPITAL

DRINK

<< HOW TO CHOOSE A WINE & SPIRITS SHOP

FUNERALS

>> HOW TO CHOOSE A FUNERAL HOME

•

•

Choose a Hospital When suffering injury or sickness, It is quickly become a large expense. When important to choose the right hospital. choosing a hospital, your insurance coverage may be the top consideration.

With many hospitals, standards of care are very much alike, but for different reasons It is worth considering what other options some hospitals offer better care than others. a hospital offers if location and insurance will When trying to choose the best hospital for you, those reasons need to be investigated.

When identifying which hospital is best, where the hospital is located is an important consideration. In a time of an unforeseen emergency the reason for that is clear, as the only answer is the nearby hospital. For many people only one hospital is close by, so visiting one farther away would be a problem.

For reasons of family and travel time, most people want to be treated in a hospital near their home. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, a hospital which is farther away but offers more specialized care may be a better choice.

Quite often people will choose a hospital where their primary doctor has an affiliation.

Many doctors have referred patients to the same hospital for years, as they are known there and can often see and perform surgery on patients quickly.

Hospitals are categorized as preferred providers by medical insurance companies.

Patients choosing a hospital that is not listed in their medical insurance plan will often pay higher fees than those which are recommended by their insurance company.

Many medical procedures that are needed, such as surgery and convalescent care, can

PAGE 2 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

Quite o en people will choose a hospital where their primary doctor has an affilia on. Many doctors have referred pa ents to the same hospital for years,

certification in areas such as quality and consistency are well worth considering.

Another way of distinguishing excellence is the Magnet Program, which covers outstanding nursing work and other forms of patient care. It is awarded to select hospitals across the nation, so some are not certified.

If you are able to enter a hospital that has achieved Magnet status, you can expect excellent patient care.

Although it depends on what procedures must be done, selecting a hospital specializing in a particular surgical procedure may be essential.

All kinds of patients needing medical attention arrive at hospitals every day, but many hospitals will specialize in several can o en see and perform areas. Two hospitals within a city may offer similar services, for example, but one might surgery on pa ents quickly. specialize in gastroenterology while another supports an advanced cardiac unit. You not affect your decision. Many hospitals may should know which is which. offer different medical accreditations than others, such as the Joint Commission, or have To ensure quality care, hospitals may achieved high status in treating specialized transfer patients to a more suitable facility. medical procedures.

Depending on the seriousness of an injury or illness, a hospital with more specialized care If a hospital is accredited by the Joint will receive the patient.

Commission, certain areas of quality will To be sure of the best outcome when caring be followed in areas that cover storage management and nursing care practice. for an injury or illness, choosing the right When hospitals receive accreditation by hospital is important. That’s why you should the Joint Commission, they are subjected to know about the strengths of your local frequent evaluation of their standards and hospitals before the need for emergency care keep these standards continuously updated. arises.

as they are known there and

Hospitals which have been awarded

We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care. Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people chooseNorthside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care.

Visit us online at www.northside.com

HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 3

Choose a Dance Studio Culture cannot only be classified as an era in time, a historical landmark and site of the Mona Lisa. Culture is also obtained through expression in theatre and drama, as well as movement of the body with song and dance.

Dance in itself has as many forms as the rainbow has colors, from our beloved classical ballet to our historical Irish Step Dance. When making a decision to enhance one’s dance training and/or theatre education, there are a few things to consider when choosing a performing arts studio.

Just as the reputation of any college or university rests primarily on the caliber of professors who instruct there, so too does a top-notch performing arts studio.

A quality studio will employ well-rounded and experienced instructors who have been performing and teaching movement for years.

Teachers with experience will enjoy the opportunity to pass on their knowledge and love of dance and theatre through the students they teach. The best instructors have been performers themselves, and while perfectly capable of teaching recreational steps and body movement, are equally suited to preparing students for the rigors and pressures of auditions and major productions.

Professional instructors know what’s required under the glare of the klieg lights because they’ve been there themselves.

Of equal importance as tenure and performance experience, is the openmindedness of the instructors. The performing arts, in all its various forms, is not calculus or grammar; there is more than one way of doing things. The arts of dance, theatre and song are by definition the free physical expression of that art form, and any studio employing a “My way or the highway” mentality, with PAGE 4 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

instructors who are rigid and unyielding in terms of embracing new ideas, is probably not the best available choice.

Moving beyond the essential characteristics of instructor quality, is the importance of remembering that “variety is the spice of life.”

Clean, spacious and well-lit dance spaces are essential, along with the appropriate changing and dressing facilities. Finer studios will offer state-of-the-art equipment and a wood sprung floor, in essence, a “floating” floor that minimizes impact and helps to reduce the wear, tear and injuries which are all too common in the dancing world.

Ideally, a quality studio will offer a variety of classes, i.e. tap, ballet, jazz, modern, hip-hop, lyrical dance and theatrical dance. At the risk of being spread too thin, some studios will offer adjunct classes beyond the discipline of dance itself. These are all forms of self-expression and culture that could potentially be offered at the proper venue. Any studio offering such a wide range of study taught by quality instructors is most definitely worth a serious look.

Does the studio offer the opportunity to work with outside guest artists and master teachers? An experience instructor is well aware of the advantages a student will gain by studying with other mast teachers. The finer studio will not only encourage their students to study with other qualified instructors, but will provide the venue of study intensive workshops to broaden the education process

of students interested in furthering their artistic career.

Beyond the caliber of instruction and variety of classes offered by a performing arts establishment, is the physical space and location of a studio. It is said that a child will flourish in an environment he or she is comfortable in. Clean, spacious and well-lit dance spaces are essential, along with the appropriate changing and dressing facilities. Finer studios will offer state-ofthe-art equipment and a wood sprung floor, in essence, a “floating” floor that minimizes impact and helps to reduce the wear, tear and injuries which are all too common in the dancing world.

And lastly, it’s important to take into consideration the ultimate achievement level of former students and the instructors. While most budding artists take classes to foster healthy bodies and friendships with others who enjoy the same forms of expression, there is always a certain percentage who aspire to greater heights. Consideration would be given to the performance opportunities available to those who desire to pursue a career in the arts.

The performance experience should exclude any envy or rivalry amongst the corps of performers. On the contrary, during competition performances, the sense of being the best you can be while striving to perform in unison with team members, builds a strong and lasting camaraderie and discipline of teamwork relationships. So too does performance, which incorporates other art forms, including musicians, actors and visual artists such as lighting technicians, build an understanding of confidence, self-esteem and the desire to strive for the best one can be in all aspects of life.

Summer Camp Registration Begins March 1st!

Visit Our Dance BOutique

Private Lessons

tutus & taps

Available!

Home of CDA II Performance Academy Ages 18 Months to Adult

Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Hip Hop • Pointe • Lyrical • Contemporary • Irish Broadway Jazz Musical Theater • Kinder-Gym • 2 Yr. Classes • Triple Threat • Voice • BOYS Hip Hop • BOYS Tap Adult Classes • ZUMBA • Performing Companies & Miss Niki’s Elite Performance Class

Cumming Dance Academy Over 10 Years Instructional Excellence!

Voted Best Dance Studio 2010, 2011 & 2012

770•781•4922

Owner/Artistic Director

Niki Jernigan-Watkins

419 Tribble Gap Rd. • Cumming

www.cummingdanceacademy.com

www.facebook.com/cummingdanceacademy HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 5

Choose a Wine & Spirits Shop Selection and service. Savings. A broad choice so you can find exactly what you want, and helpful, friendly, knowledgeable staff. Of course, there’s more. Read on.

WINE LABELS DEMYSTIFIED There are three kinds of wine labels; varietal, proprietary, geographic. VARIETAL: The name of the grape is on the label. US law dictates at least 75% of what’s on the label has to be in the bottle. Examples: Merlot, Cabernet, Chardonnay, Riesling, Shiraz. GEOGRAPHIC: The wine gets its name from the region, village or commune where the grapes grow. Bordeaux is a region of France. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are dominant grapes. Therefore, Bordeaux is mostly Cab and Merlot. Slight variation: German wines are labeled by region but generally described by sweetness. Kabinette is the driest, trockenbeerenauslese the sweetest. Most German wine available in this country is made from Riesling although it won’t always say so on the label. PROPRIETARY: Whatever the wine maker wants to call it. Yes, made-up names. If it says ‘blush’ anything, chances are it’s a Propietary label because ‘blush’ is not a grape. But don’t assume that because it’s a fake name, it’s fake wine. Caymus Vineyards Conundrum comes to mind. Fantastic blend of wines from at least five different white grapes. Outstanding off-dry predessert treat.

FINDING THE BEST WINE Rule number one: The best wine in the world is the one you like. Your favorite. The one you buy over and over. The one that makes your soul sing and your spirit take flight.

Rule number two: To find the best wine (see rule number one) you must put wine in your mouth. Your friends and the friendly guy at the wine shop can tell you what he likes and dislikes but he can’t tell you what you like. Or what you taste. It’s a solo journey. We will hold your hand but you take the first step.

Rule number three: Go to every single tasting PAGE 6 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

you can find. Move and groove like as if you’re on your personal mission of pleasure. Because you are. Enjoy the ride.

Rule number four: Remember these words: sniff, sip, swirl, sip and swirl a second time, swish, swallow, savor. Now remember these words: enjoy the ride. Until you understand all those ‘s’ terms, enjoy. The terms will come along. You might ask one of the friendly staff at your favorite wine shop. Or go on line with Keyword: Wine tasting. The knowledge is everywhere. Tasting is still in your mouth alone.

THE SPIRIT RANGE A good liquor store will have a broad selection of all the advertised brands as well as private label brands. This store will also have bourbons, rums, scotches, vodkas, gins and liquors that are not found elsewhere. This means that the buyers have long experience in the business and the knowledge to seek out and stock the best, highly allocated spirits the world has to offer.

There are three types of WHISKEYS, BOURBONS OR STRAIGHT WHISKEY, which are full flavored of body and character.They must have at least 2 years of aging in oak barrels, not diluted with plain grain alcohol and can be bottled at any proof from 80° and up. 100° is called bottled in bond. BLENDED WHISKEYS - Both American and Canadian are straight whiskeys which have been cut with grain neutral spirits or spring water to reach 80°. Proof is 50% of the alcohol content - therefore 100° whiskey is 50% alcohol.

SCOTCH WHISKEY AND IRISH WHISKEY are both blended and single malt. Single malt means that the whiskey comes from a single distillery.

The great blended SCOTCHES such as Johnnie Walker or Dewars contain as many as 20 or 30 malts from different distilleries. Scotch has a smoky peaty quality because of the peat used to fire the cooking mash. Whiskey is distilled from grains like corn, wheat, rye or barley. BRANDY is distilled from grapes or finished wine. Armagac and Cognac are the great brandies of France.

All countries where grapes are grown produce

brandy. Some of the best are from Greece, Italy, Germany, Spain and Mexico. LIQUEURS can be made from any fruit, nut, herb, vegetable or plant which can be distilled. Schnapps or liqueur are interchangeable. Liqueurs may be sweet, dry, mellow, creamy, intense, fruity or tangy. They may be served alone or in combination cocktails, at any social occasion. Your imagination is the only limit. Variety is the name of the game. PREMIUM VODKAS are made from a variety of grains and vegetables and range from spicy/peppery to smooth and clean. PREMIUM TEQUILAS are usually aged like high quality wines. A singlebatch BOURBON does not taste like the stuff on the bottom shelf. Variety is the name of the game. Life’s too short to leave out the adventure.

CRAFT/SPECIALTY BEERS Beer is universal. With so many cultures developing their own indigenous brewing traditions, recipes and ingredients, it’s no wonder that the world still offers an incredible and delightful variety of beers. At last count, there were more than 20,000 brands of beer sold around the world, brewed in more than 170 styles.

All malt beverages are rightly referred to as “beers,” but there are two distinct types: ALES AND LAGERS. Until the 1800s, all beers were ales, that is they were brewed with yeasts that fermented at the top of the fermenting tank.

Bottom-fermenting yeasts, discovered around 1830, and advances in refrigeration made it possible to brew “lagers” all year round.

Old world craft beers may have a pedigree that dates back hundreds of years. And next to it may be the latest and greatest artistic beer expression made last month. Fresh, crisp, deep-flavored, an outstanding prizewinner.

SERVICE AND SELECTION KNOWLEDGE AND VARIETY. RANGE AND CHOICE. GO WHERE YOU GET WHAT YOU WANT AND FIND THE NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE OF YOUR LIFE!

If you are having a party or planning a special event, let the friendly and knowledgeable staff at our store help make it easy and stress free.

Wine Tasting Room Join us for our Weekly Tasting

We carry wide selections of: Georgia Liquor Barn is proud • Domestic • import • to have the ONLY one if its • microbrew beers • bourbon • kind tasting room in this area.

• branDy • Gin • scotch • We feature a variety • tequila • sinGle malt scotch • of fine wines for • VoDka • tasting each Friday

we will price match

night from 5-9 PM.

We carry both local and Tennessee Moonshine!

Fine Wine Cellar

More than 3,000 Items to Choose from!

••••••••• Wine Consultant On Site 1pm - 7pm ••••••••• 10% Case Discounts on Wine

HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 7

Choose a Community Bank Selecting a bank seems like an easy assignment. Many times the bank we select is chosen because it’s closer to where we live or work. Convenience of location has always been the number one reason customers select a bank. Convenience is important and should be considered when making a banking decision on where to bank. Some banks today offer seven-day a week banking with expanded hours and are open most holidays.

This gives you flexibility to do your banking when it is convenient to you. But, you should expect more from a bank than a good location and hours.

Banks today are technologically superior and offer products that are key elements in selecting a financial institution. What do you need from your bank and what do you expect your bank to provide should be questions asked when making decisions to select a bank.

Suddenly the “free” checking account with no services or options is not as important as being able to access an account and whether you feel comfortable and welcome when you enter or telephone your bank. Are you greeted with a familiar, smiling face? Do they call you by name, do you genuinely feel that the staff cares about you?

Checking products and how they are marketed to customers is another important difference to compare when selecting a bank.

Most banks offer checking products that range from “free” checking to club accounts.

These two types of accounts are the extreme examples of relatively no service or features from a bank with a “free” account and an account with many features that are paid for on a monthly basis.

PAGE 8 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

Overdraft fees and protection vary from bank to bank as well. No customer wants to be overdrawn, but it happens from time to time and a bank may charge from $15 to $30 dollars per item for an overdraft fee. Know what you’re getting into before you open the account. You may also want to know how to visit with a customer service or bookkeeping person to answer a question or solve a problem. Most community banks have local people handling your problems such as a lost or missing check or even help balance your checking account. If the customer service is available only through a 1-800 number, you might think twice before selecting this bank.

Lending is another product that customers expect and need from banks. Most people need a loan for a car, business or home and rely on their bank to provide this service.

All banks make loans, but their process of approving an application may differ. How they handle a customer may differ, if they keep the loan or sell it to another financial institution. These questions may not seem important when you open an account at a bank but when you need a loan it will matter.

Most local banks make decisions locally and have continuity in their lending staff as officers move up through the ranks in the same bank. This allows you to keep the same loan officer as you grow with the bank.

In a regional bank the decisions many times are made in the lending centers where applications are sent. They use formulas and credit scores to approve loans. The loan officer for a regional bank may work in the community for a few years and move to another community for a few years and move

to another community as they are promoted within the bank’s system.

Comparing interest rates and fees are also important in deciding on a bank as banks may differ. This would include document preparation fees, late fees, extension fees, and other fees that might relate to the type of loan you are requesting. Rates and fees are disclosed and can be compared before designing a loan application. It’s good policy to always ask what the fees and rates on a loan are before applying. Bankers do like customers who are concerned about lower rates and fees as they feel the customer will pay the loan back.

The location(s) of your bank is important.

But also be sure to consider the technology the bank has installed and the products you might use such as banking with your personal computer, checking services, researching a problem, or just working with a loan officer to get a fair loan at a competitive interest rate with reasonable fees. These factors will help you to know your money is secure, and have access to it when it counts.

Last, but not least, is community involvement. In today’s hectic and sometimes seemingly uncaring world, it is refreshing to see and know that a bank and its staff are involved in your community and care. Also it is good to know that your money is being invested in your community. Community reinvestment and support are crucial to most areas. Is the bank involved in your community; are they not only giving financial support, but seen actively working for and in the community?

THE BANK…a cut

bove the rest!

What does it mean to bank with a bank that is a cut above the rest?

It means that the service at the bank is superior and unmatched by others.

It means the bank staff really cares about you the customer... It means a lot. www.alliancenationalbank.com 100 Colony Park Drive | Cumming, GA 30040 | 678-208-6300

Safety

Soundness

Security

Member FDIC

Service HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 9

How to Choose a Handgun Choosing a handgun, whether for home defense or concealed carry, is a decision which takes a lot of consideration, a lot of shopping, and if you’re new to the market, probably a lot of talking to merchants and other gun owners.

Being properly informed is your first step on the road to responsible gun ownership.

SIZE AND CALIBER

Whatever your level of ability, there is usually a handgun on the market that will fit your needs, both technically and physically. It’s a good idea to always make sure you physically shop for a handgun at some point, regardless of how you intend to buy it.

Pistols comes in many shapes, sizes and calibers, and the choice might seem a bit overwhelming.

The first thing you should consider is size. If you aren’t going to be carrying the pistol on your person, a larger framed pistol will serve you just fine. You’ll be able to hold more ammunition in the magazine, and your recoil and sighting will be much more manageable.

enough caliber to put a stop to any threat you might face. Smaller calibers will work better for novice shooters and those who need a smaller weapon outright.

Being properly informed is your first step on the road to responsible gun ownership.

OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER

There are a few other important decisions to make when it comes to choosing your handgun to make sure you’re buying the correct weapon.

First off, you should be able to operate the weapon easily and without complication. Take time to learn about the gun you choose, and make sure you know about loading, firing and switching the safety on and off before you attempt to use the weapon.

If you’re trying to find a handgun to carry concealed, a smaller pistol will serve you better.

While you won’t have the weight to help absorb recoil, or the longer sight plane, you won’t have to worry about it nearly as much. Most concealed carry guns are designed to be used at close ranges, as well as remain hidden when not in use.

When it comes to handguns, there are two variations: the automatic and the revolver. The automatics are the typical clip-fed modern handgun and usually come in smaller calibers, also known as “auto calibers.” Automatics are complicated machines and can be trickier to clean and operate than a revolver, but they make up for it by being fast to fire and easy to reload.

Caliber is an important consideration as well.

Larger caliber weapons will deal more damage with every hit, but at the cost of recoil and size of the weapon. While your objective shouldn’t be to kill an attacker, you’ll want to choose a large

Revolvers are much simpler machines and have been around a lot longer than automatics.

They have a wider range of calibers available, are easier to clean, but firing speed and reload time is significantly reduced. A revolver is a good option

PAGE 10 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

for a beginner, but there are good automatics for novices as well.

It is more important to have a gun with pointand-shoot accuracy instead of sighted accuracy when it comes to self-defense. If you are being assaulted, you are probably not going to have the need to draw a bead on your attacker, nor will you have the time. When you’re shooting for self-defense, you’re usually firing fast and instinctively, so it’s good to have a gun that reflects your firing style.

WARNINGS

As with any weapon, be familiar with the use and care of your gun before you attempt to deploy it in a self-defense maneuver. Spend plenty of time with your weapon at the firing range and become familiar with the limitations of your weapon.

Responsible gun ownership starts with gun safety. Always make sure you are handling your weapon in a manner that is safe for you and those around you, and never leave your pistol where children can get their hands on it. Always treat the weapon like it’s loaded, and never point at anyone you don’t intend to shoot.

If you have further questions, your local gun shop will be the place to get answers. Most of the time the staff is very passionate about their trade and will be more than happy to help you select a weapon within your price range and abilities.

Remember to ask plenty of questions, and if you don’t quite like the answers, feel free to ask other gun shops or gun owners.

HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 11

Choose a Funeral Home When grieving over the loss of a loved one, of funerals. It is said to be one of the most the last thing you want to be thinking about is expensive purchases you will make. The total planning their funeral. cost can easily run over $10,000, with the casket alone making up over half of the sum.

However, if no funeral plans were made prior to the death, you may find yourself facing this With the funeral director, you will review reality. This is a difficult process and you want general pricing with a list of services. You to make sure that you are comfortable with won’t want to make any decisions on the spot, any arrangements you might have to make. so ask the funeral director for an itemized price in writing.

When you are ready to begin planning, the first step you need to take is to choose If you are planning the funeral where you would like to have the service. This decision may be easier if your loved one was a member of a church, synagogue, mosque or with other family members, make other religious organization.

Next, perform a search on the Internet or newspaper obituary page to find funeral homes in your area. Call each one and make an appointment for an on-site or telephone arrangement conference with a funeral director to discuss your basic options.

sure you discuss who is going to be the primary contact for all

If you are planning the funeral with other family members, make sure you discuss who is going to be the primary contact for all funeral arrangements. This makes things easier for both the funeral home and family members who are trying to get information on arrangements.

After finalizing your decision on what type of service you would like, you need to get all of the paperwork in order. This means filling out and submitting all necessary permits and copies of death certificates, as well as securing burial arrangements at the cemetery or crematory.

This may all seem overwhelming, but

funeral arrangements. This makes remember that if you have done your research things easier for both the funeral

Most likely, the cost of the funeral is one of your concerns. Start your conversation home and family members. with the funeral director by asking about the basic fee. Independent family-owned funeral homes may offer lower costs, but you won’t The Federal Trade Commission mandates know for sure until you talk to them. that each funeral home provide customers with a pricing list. Remember that you have From there, you can follow-up with control over what services you receive. You questions on available services and any down should never pay for funeral services that you payments you will need to make. After this do not want. initial conversation, you can make a more educated estimate of your funeral budget.

If casket prices at your chosen funeral home are too pricey, you have the right to purchase There’s no getting around the high cost a casket elsewhere with no additional charge.

PAGE 12 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

Compare prices at other funeral homes and on the Internet, then make the choice that works best for your situation.

you have chosen the best funeral home for the needs of your loved one. They have the expertise to guide you through this difficult process and to ensure the funeral runs smoothly for everyone.

Remember if you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask the funeral home for their advice. You always have the option of finding a different funeral home if you have problems with them down the road. If that happens, you only need to pay for services that you requested them to perform.

Contact your funeral home for additional questions or concerns.

You’ve just heard the news.

Now, you need the information.

When someone you know passes away it’s important to know the arrangements the family has made.

We provide accurate information and up-to-date obituaries & service times online. Information can be found quickly on our home page.

Pre-Planned Funeral Arrangements Easy, Affordable & Appreciated "They've made life's biggest decisions together."

770-887-2388 210 Ingram Avenue Cumming, GA www.ingramfuneralhome.com

Call us today to learn more about pre-planning.

HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 13

Choose a Dentist Choosing a dentist can make a world of difference in a patient’s smile and oral health.

It can also be a daunting task, especially as the number of practicing dentists continues to increase rapidly throughout the country.

Emergency dental services should be available for any dental crises. This information can also be obtained by calling the dental office. Look for dental offices with receptionists that are friendly, timely, and helpful.

There used to be little choice as to which dentist to visit. Teeth cleaning, x-rays and dental operations were performed by whichever dentist served a particular area or insurance company.

Now, more than ever, individuals are choosing their own dentist in hopes of finding a friend and ally ready to help create a gorgeous smile while offering a pleasant dental experience.

Now, more than ever, individuals are choosing their own dentist in hopes of finding a friend and ally ready to help

When choosing a dentist, it is important to consider a few key things. Location and office hours are important in terms of convenience.

The dental office should be located close to work or home and offer hours compatible with an individual’s lifestyle.

create a gorgeous smile while offering a

Word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family are one of the best ways to find a reputable dentist as well as knowing which dentists to avoid.

Most dental offices now have Web sites that offer valuable information about the dentists practicing at the office and usually include each dentist’s basic background information, education and dental specialties.

A basic information check should be performed on any potential dentists before the initial visit.

Check that they have earned a degree from a reputable school and are up to date with their licensing and educational requirements. They will preferably be keeping up with the latest dental technologies and trends.

pleasant dental experience.

Always be sure that they support up-to-date Information to look for when reading through dental insurance. The best dentists consistently a particular dentist’s Web site include things provide cutting edge dental care while striving to such as what extra charges or costs are involved create and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for should an appointment be missed or cancelled, their patients. x-ray requirements and costs, and costs related to any extra services.

Payment should be discussed ahead of time with estimates being given for any and all It is also important to note how far in services. If dental insurance will be used, always advance cleanings and appointments should be check to be sure the dentist that has been scheduled. chosen accepts the specific insurance. If not, a

PAGE 14 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

new dentist may need to be selected. Discuss payment plan options ahead of time, especially for expensive procedures.

When visiting a dentist for the first time, the dentist should be professional and friendly.

Questions should be asked based upon the individual patient’s needs and concerns.

If phobias and pain are concerns, patients should express this during an initial visit with a dentist and determine what can be done to alleviate them. Many dentists are willing to go above and beyond to cater to patients with these specific concerns.

A basic oral history should be reviewed before hand, and future treatment and prevention options should be discussed. A good dentist will work to make a patient comfortable and should have a pleasant chair-side manner.

First impressions mean a lot when choosing a dentist. If the dentist, hygienists or office staff create an atmosphere that is anything less than professional or pleasant, a new dentist should be searched for.

The best dentists offer friendly, happy dental experiences. They consider the preferences and concerns of their patients and offer exceptional, cutting-edge dental services.

Teeth are important to overall health and appearance and should be trusted with only the best of dentists. Finding a good dentist should involve finding a friend and ally in the dental industry who consistently keeps the health and beauty of their patient’s smile a top priority.

North Cumming Dentistry New Patients Welcome

FREE TEETH BLEACHING With Adult Exam and Cleaning (Call Us for Details @ 470-253-7349)

• • • • •

Most Insurances Accepted Emergencies and Dental Anxious patients welcomed Full Dental Services provided (Call for details) Weekend and Evening Appointments Accept Medicaid Kids & Adults

Dr. Farid Moghaddam, D.M.D.

Check out our Facebook Page @ Facebook ID: North Cumming 1715 Friendship Circle | Suite 100 | Cumming, GA 30028 Phone: (470) 253-7349 | Fax: (470) 253-7352 HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013 — PAGE 15

Count on us

to reach the people that count.

Resid ents chan line up f o ce to vote r early , 3A Vol. 4, No. 44

Court house plan

Sunda y, Oct ober 28, 20 12

By Crys

Staff wr tal Ledford iter

Fo rs voted yt h Co un offic ia5-0 on Oct. ty co m m is gr ee n” ls ha ve 18 to appr si on er s de faciliti de sig n fo em ed th ove what e es r The co in downtowtwo gove “t ow n om m en ncept, wh n Cum rn m en t m ing. ich da tio with shephe n of th e carried the tures recte am rdin an a new open gr g the proj ch arge d ee ec expandcounty co n space in ts, feaed deten urthouse front The of an tio ers in projects we n center. d near an si on November re approved by vo op tio of th e sp ecas part of tn sa le an s ta x, ia l pu rp os extene lo ca or SP See PL LO ST l AN | 2A V II,

Illustr

appro ved

Engag ing th e elect orate Lawye r susp ation

for the

South

Chang e likely s i wake n o big fire f Stricte r

Forsyt

h News

TH

NOVEURSDa MBER y 1, 2012

ended 60 day s | 2A

sough regulations t for m ulch

By Alys

Staff wr sa LaRenz ie iter

In th three e wa ke of ness, weeks at a a fir e th siderinForsyth Co south Fo at sm ol de rsy re un g Th e firstricter codety commiss th mulch d fo r bu ioners e at Shiloh Co regulat are cosia cent 24 an Road bega w ar t M ulions. nury of d even tually n in the ea ch Pr od uc coveri At ng our Chief the commissburned ou rly morning ts on t Da comm in Sept nny Bo ion mee m about unity wm ting Ocid-October. . | Get up “and it 750,000 ga an said t. 23, the di llo dates at “Wha dn’t budg ns of wa departmen Fire e it.” t occu forsythn t pu ter on bu the fir t ews.comlimtbsa m ou nt airred was not e a mou that co n of tru | 50 selfnd of nk s mpr co¢ Firm is a m mbusted in essed upon an d stu m mulch, looks ou ps ter to gran The di ntain of m nally,” Bothemselves an d ate ffi wm an rial.” culty of acce d open d an sa in id. “I ing | 1B inside, ssibility, sin fighting t th ac Ci tin cording ce the blaz e fire is th Bowm g th e 20 to Bowman e burns fro e lack 12 m the that pi an read th In te rn at .

Photo cannot e recom io na l Fi re s by Colum in widtles men ex h Co Studen Jennifer Sami n Divisioand 250 fe ceed 25 fe ded regula de , South is ts t: en For

By Je Grov tio n Chief et in len et in he ter th syth Ne the pi’Bam nn e e gym ight, 15 n ws gth. le at Co a/ Barry Staff wr ifer Sami mock Middle L SU th at 0 ough Sc

By Alys wart iter a He ad said stu “State presiden hool du Piney width it would likely wa dy inthe siz alaren sa LaRenz rin tia s 50 ha an zie@fors ie tive Pa of Vacatio l conven g a As to 60 conetrof The d length ve fallen ythnews fe as Conn th ei r na m es he ige Wilson n” repres tion. .com be en current corequiremen within or neet tall, ts | 5B or Bu es r stat A lar enta, left, w er ch an ge ts. unty drew Th ar pr eh ge so e’s es an ler e th e up m sto e w bl id co no caralle ch cheoiof an d sin da te esd aze sta ent an de while ged,shed t Fo Alex suppor eers from e rroofuncdfirvic rs ytFo rted ab e,”e Shcethfo Limiti d re co m ce 20 05 , however, em caug at ter h a cl in pl rb a th s, as cro roesof privers gs mate lin oyees ng ou southm e ro hasn’t to bies, hip includ ht fir Forsyt sa of es en ria g such the size of en da tio ns re fle ct wereIsa t 1 p.m. be a signiesid ing wde Tu loy in g bu sters, De of, said letes. th os fic t.id. “It’s go ls on pa po betc , a Coun h a fire superh Smurfs, zodaaly afterno sin es s Sh partment Forsyth Co llehiEn nggluof rtion of th ant loss, ing to to be pile could H ea d sa e on. eroes m Divisio State ivers. un firefigty ndits It wa “more e build but a go id all , a co and ath n Chief tyofFi No rerth Seod mnt manag ow contro . em ing “T he e CHAN who he s those ch CladJain inspechters le. e fi enbetsr ar leable.” ara sonrei PoTh us e of GES | salvageand some re atofe the tion fo lped the tw cte build t a 2A eeof a to rcof her grou ndRo Brs ansd in r an intle others ing th e Suable.” g rs, h mca ug gy Co p of Piner president o clincu af . pa h m ter pu on M the es pu htng Se raded em an y Grov rsau ld inm m er s Santa lli e BLAZ around be ting ou ta stu As e M d vice pr elec- s & in Cl Dr ive de dust 3A the presid part of a lesiddle School.esident a fire t Like aus on a ch nt Edr|es ry got the Englund’s air with whsed as school’ential electi son on th Tues tio day to their chance to group, each eels. gather s sixth- an on procese U.S. 18 n as eight af te rnoo n. casting younger show off co state watch ed in the d seventh-g s, the Th “states,” h-graders re or their sta classmate stumes gy a moc rad Jim De k pres m Oct. 18 ers Sme classes ra homeroompresented vote. te’s ele s an identi urfs to ng Forsyt ctoral before And ea al conv to h State of ed from classes. college “We News County ch St ensta an d it spent two Camouflageate of Th tes had on of the 18 e electo eighth-g wa s so weeks pla . ree pa rad ral irs Leve nning the six e m uc h co of it th grad representatllege vote. fu n,” Lake ls on e and sa id ive Lanier three s from See EN from GAGING Date the | 2A Leve Oct. 22 l 1062.37 Oct. 23 Fo llo ft.

1062.34 Oct. 24 south w in g a fir 1062.30 ft.

Oct. 25 ering Forsyth, e th at la File ph ft. coun 1062 tighter Full po st oto ol 10 .33 ft. regula ty leadered w ee ks 71.00 s are tions in ft. . cons idthe

By Je nn offic e F o r s y t h A pro Staff wr ifer Sami duct fo r ei a iter of th ye go ar s gh t od e July 20en di ng in said Sm wo rk in g The 10. hi s wo ith, addi re la tio ns S h Registr Fulton Co ng hi rk Mitche a r o n make th as a co that he ho p,” ting a ation and unty Boar “H as th ll, serving the next e office self-ns ul ta nt wpes expe e br in gs County little help Elections is d of Smith rienc m an ill sufficie Copyright getresiden from a d i r e e in te rim “N ob election. © 2012 nt for ha vi ng e in Geor y ye ar s Forsyth Ga c Fo t. ry County rsyth Fu lto t o r o f county od y w an ts News directo pr ev io us gia electi of mer ele J. Smith ha re pl ac n’ ve to , s he Fo cti tions el ec tio ns r of registr ly se rv ed ons, said. “A a difficu se e an ed th rsyth’ ons su work wh e fo y ati s Fu lto Oct. 19 as pervisor, be for- arreo resigned pr ev io us o f f i c e , th e G eo rg s a former lt election,” statemen r Fo rs yt h on and ele as di re n fo r ia A m las a cons Co un st ga election “Our t said. th e No ty,” thcultant n fo llo stemming t month af ct or, wass oc ia tio n El ec tio n ember of Genera O ffi e w v. 6 Ge ter to nt to se ra Bo fro “I ’m . l Elec e this ar d … I ci al s gotion andBy ne ra l under th th e te rm s m failure an “I eaJennife tio office th e on ly vo r g min prepajsamirly Bu t e influence of a dr iv to of it want to se thing go ba do n’t ex ing smoo @fors tinSa th have be Sm e an ele right now on e in in d. pe ly, ca an th g w rti se. expe ith anythnews ction,” th th el l as d ru n el ec em come .com en efforts. se will on d hi s ele said Smat’s directei r tion, rtise is wi sa id M itc ou cti tio ly Fo t It on Our gose em enha election ns rs yt h th vo he ll’ not ith, wh ed al cosnt th atnce ou s s.”

Beautif Co un ju st as to run a tra “We’r managing ter registr s o led Th r in ele ty ns election ction ing pareulntvolu ues Ke a- of e Fulto ru ns togeth e going to ep be Fo n Co fice s. eers to er and dnteff Sm ith.” BuLake Laan were rs yt h Co icien I’m su work close ing Smissued a sta unty elec ’s wo t one nier’s sh lim or t just out cleun ty re we tio ly rk wimonth ’ll have was “p ith’s sele tement rega ns he ited toloniok ing fo th Fu later, eline. anlto an dne weekrs,mor th our tea leased to ction, sayi rd- ho said he ta ke fore penopisle e organiza ur, or wa’stebe ng it have m.” tion is g ca ich to go [him] “m rwin pareidof wh ay th e s h $4 join mally makRiveuc re Sa tu rd2 an st of back ou e.” rs Alles t ay du ives than th I no r- rin g the ar ea ’s See AD str “This focu Cleanu e 20 12 s is on p.

VISEea m s, R | we ev 2A Smith erythi tland cialist. , KFCB co s … rivers,”ng. It can be mmun “We wi ity ou said Kevi n treach ll mos like th spetly be of sm e Etowah River, focusing I wantall creeks wi on and th ere ar areas don’t to hit this thin the cit e a lo re ye y Smith alize are ev ar that a lo limits thatt en ther t is of tee ho pe rs fo ping e,” Photo ople s by Au round r the clean to get 10 he said. tumn Vetter water state initi up, part of 0-150 volu Forsyt Stua wa h Count ati a ny News Thou ys clean. ve to keep larger yearUGAFrt C o h e n Georgi an d wi gh conditi c o m orever, gi , c o - o w a’s p Smith nd y, it’s ons this we Back a ny ’s f ves a to n e r o f go sa ek id od cl gr ur a . ea nu p are cold es ite ound, Su c i l i t y Tu of the Se e we zie m e W s d a y. s. Th at he r, ATERS Autry sells | 3A a v e bu si ne organi Bu

NO ONE covers Forsyth County like WE do.

More than

Studen counc ts pick il of ‘con by way vNeonotino enin ’ jure

Roofin g blaze d in st orage shed

fire

battled

For al sizes ol f D Fualw tog nsturn Smith led Fo st office for 8

Clean target up o loca s l elect ions a Forsyth d wvaisteerr s Rivers

rsyth years

more alive seeks volunte ers

Ask us how...

770-205-8960 arie zlld ss its grogs merch t y o f G , w hi ch Co he an d op en andise, e o r g i a w wall n po in ts in g to da ill hold signs ou t a y. . nu m Le ft, be r of For th e stor y, see Busin ess, 1B .

Event seeing Semian ‘best t sale Sa nual charity turday icket s at Belk ales’ e ver

Tea pa encou rty folks t rages o Nonp artisan vote rally

The and sp event, typi

By Crys

By Je tions ring, invite cally held cledfo tal Ledford nn rd@for jsami@f ifer Sami each. to sell adm s charitabl in the fall sythnew e or orsyth ission s.com news.co The tickets ganizaA lo m for $5 of the organizatio If you’ It do could cal retailer re goin ou t ah esn’t matt and sa sales they ns keep 10 event be its mos is readying er make g • Wha ea d, les fro 0 perc in histo t succ Pa fo th pr al l th which ca rty e mor m ad ior to ent Ke lly ry. essful r what • Whe t: Belk Fall encourPatriot Allia e Fo rs yt hndidate com charity among ning of th ditional tic the sale, n: Ch La ke la Fr ee se , 6ar 10 • Whe ity th upcom aging voternce is work Co un ty Tees re: Be a.m. Satu Sale “Right e organizae event arekets sold hold nd Pl az a, m an ag er • ing ing lk, s Co its Fa of rd tio divide now, sa id 52 st: $5 ay tie ns Be lk “Som election to particip toward isa a.m. Sa ll d admiss0 Lakelan in of s,” Freese we have . ate in turday Charity Sath e sto re tant vo e people, . d Plaz ab ion sa them wi . the I don’ le fro a is fro id. “Almosout 38 char know ting is to the t know m 6-10ll thing “I’ll m it how Housnethat every m, and I moneyfrom high Forsyth. every one have alltell you [o just ho imporr, allian vote co said th rganiza youth to the hum school tea It’s every- ticket pe To he tion is ha sales m groups ane so lp bolstce vice presunts,” said they ho sti ng . ciety s raising of the sa they’ve s been th leaders] Ernie ide er nt. turnou to chur eir le, so ha Saturda a Ge t t, the ch off.” we’ll d in the hi best Ou y. t The ev th e Vo alliance eral lo see if sto en that pa ry See EV the gr cations in t will tak te Ra lly is ys ou on ENT | Cumm e place abby 3A Peop p’s reach at ing to maximsevva ss in le from th.

Busin 4A ize g th e e ess Volum do w ntalliance wi Classifi © 201 e 103, Numb 1B ll ow n 2, See VO eds Cumm Forsyth Co er 175 sq ua re be canDeath TE | 2A un ing, Ge 4B s at th orgia ty News Horosco e 2A Opinion pes 2A Sports 5A 5B

Inside

3A

Mento presen r Me comm ts award unity s.

slated

5B

Cross co squad untry s compet will region e at meet.

60 / 39 For ecast | 2A

PAGE 16 ­— HOW TO GUIDE — FEBRUARY 2013

50 ce nts