Youth Dec-Jan 2013 by Forsyth County News

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Pulling some Strings

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

John Hall Publisher Kevin Atwill Editor Adlen Robinson Director of Content

Contents 8

Creating Cheer

Marco Estorino, 12, is an aspiring musician and puppeteer.

Ryan Garmon Advertising Director

Graphic Design Jeff Bucchino Josh Bugosh

On Track

Seventh-grader Ally Chumley gained confidence through running program.

Contributing Writers Tim Keyser Alyssa LaRenzie Crystal Ledford Jennifer Sami Photography Alyssa LaRenzie Jennifer Sami

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Dancing Days

Young friends bond through the art of dance.

Boy makes music, puppets - Page 8

YOUth Magazine

is published bimonthly by the Forsyth County News Co�, 302 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30040� Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request� Contact Ryan Garmon at (770) 205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com�

Young and Involved

Club at Piney Grove Middle School teaches students to give back.

Arts � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 20

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Technology � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 26

Entertainment � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 28

Education � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 30

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Welcome to

ear readers, Hard to believe this is our last issue for 2013. The holiday season is in full swing, and for most young people that means excitement is in the air. Speaking of excitement, I can’t wait for you to meet Marco Estorino. What an amazing young man. To be just 12 and so multi-talented is inspiring, to say the least. I love that someone so young has found his passion. Have you ever known anybody who makes puppets? Another unusual talent you don’t often hear about is flamenco dancing. Meet two young girls, Juliet and Audrey, who excel at this timeless art form.

There is much more in this issue, including a story about Ally Chumley, who overcame a bullying situation with the help of Girls on the Run. You would certainly never know this confident and bright young lady ever had any insecurities. You’ll also find features about lower-fat food for game day, unusual “insulting” words, drama news and some gift-buying suggestions. Enjoy the issue and have a wonderful holiday season! See you in 2014. Best,

Adlen W. Robinson is an award-winning columnist and feature writer who has been a contributor to the Forsyth County News for more than a decade. Adlen has lived in Forsyth County with husband Paul for 23 years and they have four children. Author of “Home Matters: The Guide to Organizing Your Life and Home,” Adlen is also busy working on her first cookbook. E-mail her at contact@adlenrobinson.com.

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Passion for puppetry

Inspired by “Sesame Street,” Marco Estorino has learned to create his own puppets.

Talented tween makes puppets and music

o say 12-year old Marco Estorino is a unique young man, would be quite an understatement. His infectious smile is rivaled only by his charming personality and boundless energy. And that doesn’t even address his amazing talents with whatever he touches. While Marco continues to find new interests, his love of puppets —making and interacting with them — is atop his list. In fact, some of his earliest memories are of watching his still beloved “Sesame Street.” His mother said her son was always glued to the television watching the puppets on

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

the popular show. “He was mesmerized by them,” Marlene Estorino said. “As the years went on, I knew his obsession with the puppets was different.” Marco said he loved the entire show, even episodes from decades past. “There is something magical about puppets,” he said. “The way they come to life. I mean, you cannot help but smile when you see the characters and their personalities. I still love ‘Sesame Street’ and I am not afraid to admit it.” Marlene Estorino shared how Marco was about 7 years old when he told her about

certain colleges he would need to attend if he were going to pursue the business of puppet making. He had discovered the information while searching the “Sesame Street” corporate website and reading the biographies of the various puppeteers. “I could tell that his interest in puppets and ‘Sesame Street’ was really almost like that of someone who had more of a collector mentality,” his mother said. “He was enthralled with more than the puppets, it was the graphics too. I knew his interest was different from that of other children his age.” One day, she took Marco to the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta. A gentleman was outside the theater showing off a few of his own puppets. They spoke to him briefly and then went in to see the show. Marco could not keep his mind from thinking about the puppeteer just outside. “The entire time he wouldn’t sit still,” his mother recalled. “He kept whispering, ‘Let’s go out there and talk to that man.” After the show, the two did just that. It turned out the man was awardwinning puppeteer David Stephens. See Strings pg. 16

Marco Estorino enjoys making puppets and interacting with them.

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Grizzly Community Volunteers

Piney Grove club stressing service

n simply h more tha c u m g in o ve Middle hey are d t Piney Gro a n re d il h c about the educating ching them a te o ls a e ’r y ity and School. The e commun th to k c a b of giving of others. importance in the lives s e g n a h c e ience sitiv making po nth-grade sc e v se a i, sk w rted the Keith Kuliko Forsyth, sta th u so in l o dedicated e scho . It’s a club rs teacher at th e te n lu o hool munity V cts in the sc je ro Grizzly Com p r e te rious volun to doing va because we unity. ame about and comm c p u ro g e r th oking for “The idea fo who were lo re e h s id k nce,” ny great ake a differe m d have so ma n a r e y ome togeth ere so man a place to c ear there w y .” ry e v th “E . r said felt fo em Kulikowski ers. I really d a le r e e d e lu p c to be club and in applicants to form the s a w . n o te ti a icip His solu ted to part ren as wan d il h c kowski was y li n u a K as m e time m sa anie e th y ll arent Steph p , b At practica lu c w e n launch the olunteer s student v preparing to u o ri a v g n s Child facilitati n Christma o ti Stone was ra e p O n cluding a projects, in f the larger effort. hild, part o C s a m st ri h C istry that Operation on, is a min ti a iz n a rg o needy Purse fun items to f Samaritan’s o ll fu s e x shoe bo ntries. distributes an 130 cou th re o m in irls the shoe boys and g sometimes t e a th d e in d to offer th Stone expla they wante so , ll fu e it ot qu boxes are n

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Grizzly Co mmunity Volu nteers Maggie S tone Grace Turn , er, Brennan Ferrell an d Brianna S loan mak e posters fo r Veterans Day.

n candy to organizatio h. te leftover ntary dona fill them wit e m le E h o il Sh ops, but “Parents at merican tro A to d n se d not candy to candies an rd a Halloween h d n se ly able to they are on Stone said. candy and chocolate,” parated the se h o il h S t a y to Piney Volunteers colate cand o h c e th t h broug bagged up then Stone t volunteers n e d u st re r Operation Grove, whe chocolate fo f o s d n u o fp hundreds o hild. C s a to do in the Christm any things m so re a “There

Great Careers Begin Here! Sophie Stone of Shiloh Point Elementary and Lauren Braning of Piney Grove Middle School took part in the Miles for Smiles 5K, which raised money for children with cleft palates.

community, it is great that there is a club that enables the students to be aware of the needs that are out there and helps them to really make a difference,” Stone said. Among the projects the group has taken on are pet food drives for the humane society, collecting items for local food pantries and helping out with electronic recycling. The students work hard at all of the projects they are involved with, according to Stone, who added that Kulikowski is a fantastic sponsor. “All of the kids love Mr. K.” she said. Kulikowski said they typically have 30 to 40 students participate in each activity, but are always eager to have more. In addition to all of the service projects the club will do this year, Kulikowski said they will also hold various fundraisers for a special project. “Every year we take the seventhgraders to the aquarium [in Atlanta],” he said. “We plan on using the money we raise to award scholarships to those students who might otherwise not be able to attend.” How gratifying to see so many young people giving of their time and talents to help others on a routine basis. -- Adlen W. Robinson

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Hitting her stride How a running program helped a girl find her footing

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

particularly painful when Ally would come home from school crying. “It is so tough because we knew it was impossible for her to thrive in that sort of environment,” she said. They tried to keep Ally busy with sports. Indeed, she tried cheerleading, soccer and softball, but nothing seemed to take. Melissa Chumley said she heard about Girls on the Run from a friend. The program’s mission is to “inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.” Her mother signed Ally up at Sharon Springs instead of her own school, adding she “just wanted her to branch out and meet some new friends.” With limited running experience — “I didn’t run unless something was chasing me” — Ally said the program was difficult at first. “I liked the program part, but the running was really hard until I got into better shape,” she said.

Photos: Submitted

lly Chumley appears to be a confident, bright, physically fit 12-year old. Academically accomplished, dedicated — especially to all things science — this South Forsyth Middle School seventh-grader is the epitomy of a young lady with high self-esteem. However, her mother is quick to note that wasn’t always the case. “When Ally was in fourth grade, she was bullied quite a bit,” Melissa Chumley said. “It was really difficult. There is nothing worse than seeing your child unhappy.” Her daughter has always been unique and what they call “high spirited.” “Ally always dressed in her own style, never let me help with clothes or hair,” she said. “She even asked for a sewing machine for Christmas at 9 and started making skirts and altering her own clothes.” It was at the beginning of fourth grade, that the family noticed a change. “She seemed to lose her confidence and sense of individuality,” her mother said. Ally’s confided in a friend that children were being mean to her, and that friend’s mother alerted the Chumleys. According to Ally, most of the teasing was because she wasn’t “as smart” as some of the other students. “I had to be pulled out of the class for extra help and kids made fun of me for that,” she recalled Melissa Chumley said it was

nth st day of seve top, on the fir and, ol ho Ally Chumley, Sc e dl h Forsyth Mid g grade at Sout nt Irish dancin inning a rece w r te af esses cc su r above, he its Chumley cred competition. e Run. n in Girls on th io at ip ic to part

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Her favorite coach during her time with Girls on the Run was Kathy Carnahan. “She really taught me how to pace myself, how to run better and after a while I really loved it.” Once Ally began the program, the family noticed a change. “My husband David said he could tell a dramatic difference in her personality in just a few weeks,” Melissa Chumley said. Along with the progression of physical confidence as she honed her running skills, Ally also drastically improved her academics. Today, she excels in advanced classes, is a voracious reader and is self-proclaimed science “geek.” In fact, one of her goals is to someday go to Mars. Her mother said she gives Girls on the Run so much credit for helping Ally regain her confidence. “Ally is very compassionate and has a wide range of friends now,” she said. “She knows what it is like to feel left out and she goes out of her way to make others feel included. “[The running program] helped Ally discover that she can be true to herself.” Ally runs regularly and enjoys striving to improve her times in 5Ks. She finished her first in 46 minutes, but now runs them in less than 30 minutes. “When I am in high school, I plan on volunteering to help the younger girls,” Ally said. In the spring, she also plans on trying out for the school’s track team. No doubt, she will continue to hit her stride. -- Adlen W. Robinson

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The friendship of Audrey Ekoue-Bla, left, and Juliet Wheeler has flourished through a shared passion for flamenco. Juliet’s mother, Cara Bellosso Wheeler, bottom right, is one of their instructors.

Young Dancers Excel in Challenging Pursuit Friends find fun in flamenco

Photos: Jennifer Sami

“[Flamenco] involves an entire culture of people, their traditions and long history

lamenco dancing is not something Audrey’s of their dance with its music, most children, or even adults, are all mother, that familiar with. For 9-year old Juliet Christina, costume, and musical Wheeler, however, it has always been a part of said she her life. didn’t know instruments.” Juliet’s mother, Cara Bellosso Wheeler, is anything - Cara Bellosso Wheeler a professional flamenco dancer originally from about flamenco Venezuela who owns Cito Gitano Dance Academy. dancing, but when Juliet, who began dancing when she was just 4, is in Audrey begged to try it the fourth grade at Midway Elementary. at age 4. “My friends at school don’t really know what it is. They “It’s been her thing ever are always calling it ‘flamingo’ dancing,” she said with a since,” she said. “Audrey tried other things such as ballet laugh. and gymnastics, but this is really what she is passionate Juliet’s best friend and fellow dancer is second-grader about.” Audrey Ekoue-Bla. The two have known each other their To Cara, Audrey is a natural. entire lives, since their mothers are close friends who met as “She has an amazing ability to master even the toughest neighbors. of footwork,” she said. “Her skill level is incredible.” 14

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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As for her own daughter, Cara said Juliet, or “Juju,” has fantastic upper body coordination. “If you put the two girls together they would make one perfect flamenco dancer,” she said with a smile. According to Cara, flamenco is not only a dance, it’s a lifestyle. “It involves an entire culture of people, their traditions and long history of their dance with its music, costume, and musical instruments,” she said. Cara went on to explain how a group of people who migrated from India to the southern part of Spain in the 1400s brought with them the numerous dances that are now considered part of flamenco. “The dances and the music are quite complex,” she said. “There are at least 70 different dances, although people often think it is only one.” The dances are a reflection of many things, including the region. Besides the music, foot work and actual dances, the dress is also critical to the dance. “The dress is very important and determines who we are and is part of our identity in the dance,” Cara said. “We use the skirts and many props such as fans, hats, and castanets as part of the dances. And the shoes are the most important part.” The shoes have nails in the bottom of their heels, which make that trademark sound for which flamenco dancers are perhaps best known. This past spring, the Juliet and Audrey performed in the professional production of “Raices: A Flamenco Journey,” in Atlanta. Cara’s sister Malita owns the Calo Theatre school, which put on the production. The schedule was grueling, but both girls loved the experience. “It is a big commitment, especially since the rehearsals are in Atlanta,” Cara said. Next spring the girls will be in a production of “Alice in Wonderland” that will consist of students from both schools. Juliet said she loves performing in shows more than anything. “It is fun to show who you are and what you can do,” she said. Asked how long they plan to keep dancing flamenco, both girls said emphatically, “Forever!”

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Strings

cont’d from pg. 9

“

There is a community of people who do this, and living close to Atlanta make s it possible fo r Marco to be m ore of a part of th at community. “He was so kind and I think he could see Marco was not just the average child who liked puppets,” she said. They formed a friendship and Stephens invited mother and son, as well as Marco’s younger brother Andre, to visit his studio. “It was an amazing experience,” she said. “David had a mentor when he was young, and I think he saw a little bit of himself in Marco. It was wonderful to hear him talk about his experience growing up and wanting to pursue his passion.” After all, being a puppeteer is not a profession you hear about often. “There is a community of people who do this,” she said. “And living close to Atlanta makes it possible for Marco to be more of a part of that community.” Another big part of “Sesame Street” and many puppet productions is, of course, music. Perhaps not surprisingly, Marco loves singing, playing the guitar and writing songs. 16

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

”

“He has always been musically inclined,” Marlene said. “He began playing the guitar when he was about 6 years old and he pretty much taught himself using online videos.” Last year, due to some health issues, he missed quite a bit of school. As a result, this year he attends classes at home using the Virtual Academy. Whenever he can incorporate puppets or music into his schoolwork, he eagerly does so. Once he used songs and puppets for a Revolutionary War project. More recently he wrote a poem for a literature assignment and put it to music. Marco has quite a few store-bought puppets, but his favorites are the ones he makes himself. His mom explained that many of his first puppets, such as Zoo Zoo the cyclops alien, have just one arm because he was in such a

hurry to make another one. “By the time he was almost finished making one [puppet], his brain was already constructing the next one,” she said. Marco’s current project is a Jim Henson puppet from a pattern he found online in a woman’s magazine from the 1970s. “I love building puppets, thinking of what

s In hisassigwnmoenrd t that Marco

A recent poem ms up how he feels. put to music su Music In the air Music in the air Music everywhere Oh yeah Music in my soul l tro It makes me lose con Oh, you know

e it kes me want to los That this music ma help myself ’t I just can myself It’s how I express nt to lose it Music makes me wa self I can’t help my need nothing else I need music I don’t I need music ng else I don’t need nothi

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• Carry-Out BBQ • On-Site Catering • Cheesecake their personality and character will be, and I love doing their voices,” he said, adding that each of his puppet has its own storyline. It takes just a few minutes around Marco to realize he’s a true entertainer. His mother said he never goes anywhere without his guitar or a puppet or two. “He is always looking to make that connection with people,” she said. “When you are out with him, there is bound to be a performance.” In fact, Marco frequently hangs out in his front yard singing and playing his guitar. An elderly neighbor with Alzheimer’s is particularly a fan of young Marco. When Marco was dealing with his own health issues, playing his music made him feel better, both mentally and physically. That passion led him to want to do more for suffering children and their families. After much thought and discussion, the family created a foundation, Mustache Music. Its goal is to raise money to provide kids at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta with guitars. Shortly after the foundation was founded, Marco was able to give the sibling of an ill child a guitar. “Music is so healing,” his mother said. “We know that music helps to block the brain’s ability to feel some pain, and also it’s just soothing for all who are present.” To be just 12 and have so many talents and passions, it’s clear this is a young man who is going on to do some big things. In fact, many people — young and old alike — will tell you he already has. -- Adlen W. Robinson

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FOCUS ON PEOPLE BEFORE PERFORMANCE Real-life approach, diversity key at West

ick Eibler and Lily Dickinson had performed on a professional stage before attending West Forsyth High School. Despite their experience, they knew West’s theater program was where they wanted to continue to grow as actors. “I wanted to be part of such a great theater community,” Dickinson said. “I don’t think I’ve ever had a closer group of friends that really live and breathe the same things I do.” For Eibler, the program is home away from home. “West is definitely a family and everyone here really cares about the program and the final product and the process. We all respect each other and we all support each other,” he said. “I wanted to be part of a successful theater program and West was at the top of my list.” Unlike other campuses, there is no drama club at West. Students who participate in productions and competitions

are enrolled in the school’s drama, musical theater and technical theater classes. Director Eric Gray, who has led the drama program since the school debuted in 2007, said he’s opened auditions to the whole school in the past, but to little success. With nearly 150 talented students in his classes, however, casting has never been a problem. “I just believe in a family,” he said. “I believe that everybody is important, that nobody is special or that we’re all special. But I don’t deal with divas, I don’t deal with egos and from the beginning I’ve tried to instill in my student that isn’t what I do. “I don’t think the real world out there caters to egos, so I’m trying to teach them humility.” The humility part isn’t easy, given the school’s track record of awards. “We’ve won best production at the Shuler Hensley Awards twice ... we’ve won two state titles and two state

“I don’t think I’ve ever had a closer group of friends that really live and breathe the same things I do.”

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

– Lily Dickinson

runner-ups,” Eibler said. “We’ve won a bunch of awards, and that says something and I think that definitely sets us apart from a lot of schools.” The accolades have helped build confidence in the program, but Eibler said auditioning for Gray has the opposite effect. “It sometimes can be very nerve-racking because Mr. Gray is intimidating,” he said. “We all love him, but he just has this look whenever he’s watching you that you don’t ever know what he’s thinking.” That poker face, Eibler said, is just preparing him for what auditions are like in the industry. The real-life approach to theater, as well as the diversity of productions, has been key to the program’s success. Dickinson, who won the best actress award at the Georgia Theater Conference last year, said she’s taken on a range of roles. “I’m a firm believer that experience is the best preparation that you can get, that and training,” she said. “And I think this is experience central,

because I’ve gotten to do such a variety of different roles with such diversity that was required from me as an actress. “I definitely feel like the diverse experiences I have encountered and the roles I’ve gotten to play in this school have prepared me for a multitude of characters in the future.” Gray works long hours to make sure the program thrives. He is, admittedly, strict and has a lot of rules. But that, he said, is how it is everywhere else. He credits dedicated parents with much of the school’s success and said

the nurturing family he’s created in the program is key to its success, Dickinson said. “West really focuses on the people before the performance. I think we are really focused on being a family and that sets us apart,” she said. “The fact that we’re such a closeknit group and we don’t have a lot of drama in our program, I think that shows on stage and in our performances.” -- Jennifer Sami

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Band on the

upswing I

LAMBERT PROGRAM STRONG

t may be Forsyth County’s youngest high school, but that hasn’t stopped the Lambert Longhorn band from being one of the strongest. Band director Scott McCloy, a graduate of Forsyth Central High School, said the program began with about 40 students when the school opened in 2009. “This [fall] we marched around 172, so the growth has been spectacular,” he said. “We are by two people, I believe, the largest marching band in the county this year numbers-wise. So in five years we’ve gone from the small fry to the large guy, I

guess.” The band doesn’t just have size on its side. The students’ abilities are strong, as was evidenced during a recent journey to New York. McCloy said the band placed third overall in the U.S. Bands National Championships at MetLife Stadium. The Marching Longhorns also won the titles of best music and best percussion in the competition, where they showed off this year’s halftime show, titled “Jack,”

against some fierce competition from around the country. “In our class, we had New York’s state champion, New Jersey’s state champion, Pennsylvania’s first-place band,” he said. “I mean, these are heavy hitters who have been doing this a long time … these bands go to national championships year after year. “For it to be our first run up there and win percussion and win music and come in third place overall, that’s pretty outstanding.” This year’s show came from an idea of playing off all the different forms of Jack in Western culture, according to McCloy. “You’ve got everything from Jack and the Beanstalk, a jack in the box, jackhammers, ‘Jumpin’ Jack Flash,’ Cracker Jacks,” he said. “The list goes on and on.

“So in five years we’ve gone from the small fry to the large guy, I guess.” – Scott McCloy

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

“We tried to pick 10 or 15 different elements of Jack … and incorporate them into a show concept. We think it was something that was very entertaining and something the audience could relate to, but was creative enough and difficult enough to compete on the national scene.” McCloy gave all the credit for the band’s success to the students and staff. “I told the students from day one of this program that this was their program, not my program,” McCloy said. “Wherever they wanted to go, I would do my best to help them to get there … and they’ve had a vision and they’ve said by this time we want to be at this level and by this time we want to be at this other level. “They’ve had the drive and determination. They’ve stepped up to the plate.” McCloy also credited the band’s other staff members — Tonya Mashburn, assistant director, and Trey Gaines, color guard coordinator — for the group’s success. John Mashburn, who served for many years as the director of the Flash of Crimson at Forsyth Central before retiring a few years ago, also helps out with the Longhorn band. “We are blessed to have a fantastic staff,” McCloy said. “We have a staff that really cares for the kids and the kids respect the staff because they know that they care.” As a graduate of Central, McCloy was in the school’s band under the direction of John Mashburn, whose daughter is Tonya. McCloy said the elder Mashburn was a huge influence in his life and being able to continue that legacy in his home county is a blessing. “The one thing I learned from Mr. Mashburn more than anything else is the right way to do things,” he said. “To be able to continue that legacy in a lot of cases, to be able to pay it forward and continue giving back to the community that gave me so much is truly fantastic.” -- Crystal Ledford

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R Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Game-day fare

(only lighter)

you can tailgate and stay trim

or most young people, football game-day food is anything but healthy. After all, topping the menu for most gatherings are items like nachos, chili, pizza and hamburgers. And there may be a plate or two of wings, fried of course. What if you could enjoy your favorite game-day treats (the Super Bowl will be here before you know it) and not gain 10 pounds while you cheer on your favorite team? In addition, you may even have enough energy to go outside and throw the football during halftime.

“Not-so-fattening” nachos

Do not burn. Remove from oven and sprinkle with sea salt. Pour into a bowl and repeat with remaining corn tortillas. Pour canned chili into a microwaveable bowl and stir in pickled jalapenos. Cover and microwave until hot. To assemble nachos, place nacho chips onto a baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Top with hot chili and then cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Broil until cheese has melted. Allow guests to top their portion of nachos with sour cream, fresh jalapeno, cilantro and avocado.

Turkey chili

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon kosher salt 5 cloves garlic, chopped 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 chipotle chile en adobo, coarsely chopped, with 1 tablespoon sauce 1 pound ground turkey (not turkey breast) 1 ½ cups water One 15 1/2-ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained One 14 1/2-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes, with their juice Sliced green onions, cilantro, avocado, light sour cream, grated Monterey Jack cheese and baked tortilla chips

These chips are much better than the “baked” kind because they hold up better to the chili and toppings. Make extra because then you can serve some along with salsa.

15 corn tortillas, cut into triangles Non-stick cooking spray Fine sea salt 1 can vegetarian or turkey chili 2 tablespoons pickled jalapenos, chopped 1 cup low fat cheddar cheese, shredded ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 1/3 cup light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt 1 fresh jalapeno, cut into rounds (optional) Cilantro Avocado, peeled and chopped Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. Place corn tortilla triangles onto baking sheet being careful to not overlap. This is best done in batches. Spray the tops of the tortillas with the non-stick spray. Bake until chips are crispy, about 25 minutes.

Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chili powder, oregano, salt, garlic and onions and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and chipotle chile and sauce; cook 1 minute more. Add the turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until the meat loses its raw color, about 3 minutes.

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Add water and simmer about 10 minutes. Add the beans. Add the tomatoes, crushing them through your fingers into the skillet, along with their juices; bring to a boil. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until thick, about 20 minutes. Taste for seasoning. Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with the garnishes of your choice.

Individual pizzas

Instead of using pizza dough, cut the fat and calories by more than half by using whole wheat pita, whole wheat English muffins, or whole wheat flat bread. Lightly toast the bread before letting guests top their own mini-pizzas and broiling. Pita bread, English muffins, or flat bread, split in half and lightly toasted 1 jar pizza sauce Pinch of dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, pepper and onion powder Turkey pepperoni ½ cup Vidalia onion, finely minced ½ cup mushrooms, finely sliced ½ cup red pepper, finely minced 2 cups mozzarella, shredded ¼ cup black olives, pitted and sliced Pour pizza sauce in microwaveable bowl. Add pinch of dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cover and heat in microwave until hot. Spread pizza sauce on bread halves and allow guests to top their pizza with pepperoni, onion, mushroom, red pepper, mozzarella and olives. Broil until cheese has melted and then serve.

Turkey sliders

Sliders are great because you get the satisfaction of a burger, but you are still consuming fewer calories than a giant burger, even if you eat two. When you use ground turkey, you make it even leaner. 2 pounds ground turkey (not turkey breast) ¼ cup water Salt and pepper 16 small slider buns (or use dinner rolls) Toppings: Ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, sweet onion, low-fat American cheese Put turkey in a bowl and add water, salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix together well. Divide turkey meat into 16 portions and press into small patties. Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Spray turkey patties with non-stick cooking spray and cook 3 or 4 minutes on each side until burgers are cooked through. Heat buns and top with burgers and desired toppings.

Un-fried wings

No recipe is needed! Just broil or grill some chicken wings (fresh is best) until browned and crispy. Toss with your favorite hot sauce (we like Texas Pete’s and Franks) and serve with some blue cheese dip and celery. Oh, don’t forget plenty of napkins!

-- Adlen W. Robinson

Bargain Barn 3622 Camp Road Jasper, GA 30143 At Bargain Barn We carry A large selection of Big Green Eggs and Eggcessories! Great Prices! Great Service! Open Mon-Sat 9:30-8:00 Sun 10:00-6:00

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Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Teens plugged E

lectronics likely will top holiday gift wish lists for many teenagers this year. A survey of Americans between the ages of 12 and 17 found that 88 percent hope to unwrap something electronic. The 2013 Ebates Holiday Gift Survey found that of those teens, nearly a third hoped for an Apple iPhone. The Samsung Galaxy and Nokia Lumia also earned some display space at the Cumming Target, though Apple products still take up nearly an entire aisle. “No teenager wish list would be complete without that,” store manager Steve Reid said of smart phones. The iPhone scored even higher among girls, with 41 percent putting it at the top of their list on the Ebates survey. Among boys, the Sony PlayStation 4 came in first, at 28 percent. The gaming system, released in November, comes with a popular line of new games, including Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag and Call of Duty: Ghosts. Those games are also available on the new Xbox One, which made its debut in November too. Teens also picked the Xbox console as one of the top five gift choices. The Apple iPad and iPod scored well too, with nearly a quarter of teens hoping for the tablet. Reid said with the Bring Your Own Technology, or

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

Top your holiday list with headphones, gaming systems

BYOT, program in the Forsyth County school system, teens have more opportunities to use the computerlike devices. Accessories for phones and tablets allow teens to “individualize” their electronics to fit their personalities, whether they would like to sport “Hello Kitty” or camouflage, he said. For those hoping to protect a pricy device, the LifeProof case is waterproof, dirt-proof and scratch resistant. Teens who love music may be interested in a set of Beats by Dr. Dre professional-grade headphones or the Beats Pill wireless speaker, both of which Reid said provide “a noticeable difference” in sound. One of the top-selling CDs so far, Reid said, is “Duck the Halls: a Robertson Family Christmas,” from the popular “Duck Dynasty” TV show. Of course, no one can ever go wrong with a gift card. More than 76 percent of teens hoped for some money to spend at their favorite store, and the National Retail Federation found that about 60 percent of Americans hope to pick their own gifts. Gift card selection varies at a single store too. Shoppers at Target can buy any amount to the department store, or select an iTunes card for spending on music and apps, or any variety of restaurants, online services and more. The Target Ticket, a new offering expected to be popular among teens, allows for digital movie downloads, much like Hulu Plus. Rounding out the teens non-electronic wish lists were clothes, shoes and makeup. -- Alyssa LaRenzie

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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The gifT of gaming Xbox One or Playstation 4? Which will you get?

aming consoles have evolved quite a bit over the last decade, and the latest offerings from Microsoft and Sony are destined to be popular items this holiday season. Sony’s Playstation 4 and Microsoft’s Xbox One aren’t simply updated versions of the PS3 and Xbox 360. They’ve been redesigned using more advanced technology, and they represent a newer generation of gaming consoles. Consequently, the PS4 and Xbox One are incompatible with existing PS3 and Xbox 360 games. The PS4 is physically smaller than the Xbox One, and unlike the PS3, it’s offered only in a 500GB model.

The PS4 retails for $399.99, while the PS4 Camera is available for an additional $60. One welcomed feature is the new Dual Shock 4 controller for the PS4, which has been redesigned to include a speaker and the ability to channel game audio through a standard headphone jack. To access all online gaming features with the PS4, a Playstation Plus account is required. This has been standard with online gaming with the Xbox 360, which required a paid Xbox Live subscription. The Xbox One ships with a 500GB hard drive and retails for $499.99, but it includes the new version of the Kinect camera. The new Kinect uses an array of IR blasters to

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

communicate with devices, and it recognizes a greater number of voice and gesture commands than the original Kinect. If you plan to buy one of these consoles and you aren’t upgrading from an earlier model, your best course of action is to research the consoles, read online reviews and get hands-on experience with a demo model. Since the majority of mainstream games are eventually released for all of the major consoles, consider factors such as the feel and function of the controllers and other accessories. Keep in mind that gaming consoles function as media consumption devices, and often end up streaming TV shows, movies and music.

If you’re upgrading from a PS3 or Xbox 360, evaluate how you plan to use the console differently from your current system. Ask yourself if it’s worth the cost of buying a new console, accessories and games, or whether you would like to use the money to purchase another type of device. Laptops and tablets become more powerful gaming devices each year, and they’re far more portable than consoles for gaming on the go. -- Tim Keyser

Tim Keyser is an instructional technology specialist for the Forsyth County school system.

Tear off and send in with check to: Martha Bennett, 3720 Montvale Crossing , Cumming, GA 30041. Make checks payable to: Lambert Soccer Booster Club or Pay online at www.lambertsoccer.com

Team Managers who submit all completed paperwork - team registration, medical waiver for all players & payment - by December 31st will receive a Gift of one Season Pass to all regular season home games (excludes playoffs). (Due to our record number of registrants last year, we will have to cap our tournament field at 80 teams.)

Any questions contact: Coach Luthart at SLuthart@forsyth.k12.ga.us or (678) 965-5050 ext:412202

*Include Insurance Waiver for each player* Rules/Waiver posted on www.lambertsoccer.com All medical releases must be mailed.

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

fter their raunchy MTV Video Music Awards performance, hopefully the lines are a little less blurred between Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke. The two entertainers are part of a star-studded lineup playing this year’s Jingle Ball, set for Dec. 11 at Philips Arena. I can’t get Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” song out of my head, but I’m more excited for Flo Rida and Pitbull than the others. Pitbull started popping up on Miami Mix tapes in the early 2000s. By 2002, he had landed on a Lil Jon album, followed by the “2 Fast 2 Furious” soundtrack a year later. Ayear after that, he released his debut album, M.I.A.M.I. He’s been riding high, touring with the likes of Eminem and 50 Cent, as well as pop star Ke$ha. Flo Rida, who was on the Jingle Ball tour last year, is one of my personal favorite rap artists. I was hooked by his hit, “Low” and have been a fan since. He manages to mix his hard-core rap leanings with club-style back beats for a sound that crosses over into the pop mainstream. But as far as concerts go, the Jingle Ball is going to be awesome. And as annoying as Cyrus may be, she’s replacing last year’s headliner, Justin Bieber, so that’s a massive improvement. It seems Philips Arena is the place to be in the next month or two. After the Jingle Ball, the venue is hosting P!nk on Dec. 14 and Andrea Bocelli on Dec. 15. The two couldn’t be any further apart musically, but both are huge stars in their respective styles of pop and opera. Point for P!nk for taking the Hives on tour with her. For me, the biggest concert Philips will get is Justin Timberlake. The guy just keeps getting better with age. He’s a pop music icon, but with his crazy talent in singing, dancing and acting, it’s hard to believe he got his start with Disney and a boy band. Though *NSYNC was a worldwide success, it was clear Timberlake was the talent holding the band together. He was just too popular to keep touring with the band. 28

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

When he released his first solo album, “Justified” in 2002, it was clear he was going to be one of this generation’s biggest pop stars. He will be at Philips Arena on Dec. 17 promoting his latest album, 20/20 Experience. It’s one you definitely don’t want to miss. Timberlake’s most recent partner-in-crime Jay Z will play at Philips on Dec. 27. The two paired up for Timberlake’s recent “Suit and Tie,” and Jay Z’s recent “Holy Grail.” They are an unlikely yet truly awesome pairing of two men on top of their game. Jay Z is quite possibly the world richest musician. And not just for his music, but as a producer, club owner, president of Def Jam Records, actor, clothing line entrepreneur, author and part owner of the New Jersey Nets. The guy’s worth half a billion dollars, but he’s earned every penny of it by being smart, talented and focused. His music is also incredible, which isn’t a surprise, since both he and his wife, Beyoncé, are among the industry’s most talented musicians. Even the couple’s daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, is an award-winner, having been the youngest person to appear on a Billboard-charting single she “recorded” when she was just hours old. Jay Z recorded her cries, coos and breathing and mixed it with his song, “Glory.” She probably won’t be singing

any duets with daddy during his show, but I’m thinking that could be a possibility in the near future. — Jennifer Sami

Jennifer Sami writes a weekly entertainment column for the Forsyth County News. In each edition of YOUth, she’ll alert readers to upcoming concerts and events in the metro Atlanta area. Contact her at (770) 2058975 or jsami@forsythnews.com.

Upcoming

Dec. 1

Kanye West Philips Arena

$39.50 - $150

Dec. 3

Jim Breuer Punchline Comedy Club

$30

Dec 7

Taproot Masquerade

$13

Dec. 11

Jingle Ball, with Miley Cyrus Robin Thicke, Pitbull and Flo Rida Philips Arena

$39.50 - $159.50

Dec. 14

P!nk Philips Arena

$39.50 - $125

Dec. 15

Andrea Bocelli Philips Arena

$74 - $350

Dec. 16

Misfits Masquerade

$20

Jan. 9

Dec. 17

Jeff Dunham Philips Arena

Justin Timberlake Philips Arena

$51.50

$49 - $179

Jan. 10

Dec. 27

Travis Tritt Cobb Energy Centre

Jay Z Philips Arena

$32.50 - $150

Jan. 28

The Book of Mormon Fox Theatre

North Cumming Dentistry New Patients Welcome

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1715 Friendship Circle | Suite 100 | Cumming, GA 30028 Phone: (470) 253-7349 | Fax: (470) 253-7352 www.facebook.com/northcumming Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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WWisdom ord : Remember when the cartoon “Rugrats” was all the rage? Angelica used to raise the eyebrows of all of us “momtypes” when she constantly called the other, younger Rugrats, “stupid baby.” Imagine if Angelica had used a different, more sophisticated word to express her dissatisfaction. What if she had called them all “loblolly babies?” Here are some unusual insulting names from yesteryear. Loblolly — Lout, a stupid, rude or awkward person. Originally, this was a British word for “thick” or “dense” gruel. This word evolved in America to mean stupid.

Insults from yesteryear Slubberdegullion — A dirty rascal, scoundrel. This is a 17th century word which sounds just like its definition. Chawbacon — Bumpkin, hick. “Chaw” means “chew,” so this is a derogatory name. In light of the culinary status of bacon, however, this doesn’t really seem all that negative. Those who originated the slang name would probably be shocked to know how many gourmet “bacon of the month clubs” there are, not to mention how expensive they are to join. -- Adlen W. Robinson

Blatherskite — A person who talks foolishly and at length. This was an alteration of the Scottish compound “blather skate,” in which “skate” means “a contemptible person.” Cacafuego — A swaggering braggart or boaster. The Cacafuego was a Spanish ship captured in 1579 by the English admiral Sir Francis Drake. There was probably much bragging going on when his crew captured this ship, and the word caught on. Crepehanger — Killjoy. The origin of this word comes from the way society used to treat the ritual of mourning the death of a loved one. Black crepe fabric was sewn into clothes, curtains and veils and draped all over the house and doorways so everybody would know the extent of the living person’s mourning over the dead. Historians think this word evolved to describe someone who seemed to enjoy the aspects of the funeral. Therefore, they were the negative, pessimistic one. Harridan — Shrew, ill-tempered scolding woman. Interestingly, this is a word that is still used in modern times, unlike the other words listed here. 30

Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

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Where the

Big Man

goes for Camaros.

Stop by during our RED Tag EVEnT Where you see RED, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll save some gREEn

527 Atlanta Road, Cumming 770-887-2316 Youth Magazine | December 2013 - January 2014

INJURIES DON’T TAKE

HOLIDAYS . AND NEITHER DO WE. When your pediatrician isn’t available this season, ours are standing by. Open 9am to 7pm on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

* Wait times are updated every 15 minutes and are estimates based on the average time it takes for a patient to be placed in an exam room. Standard messaging fees will apply for texting. ©2013 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

CHILDREN’S AT FORSYTH – 410 PEACHTREE PKWY., CUMMING, 404-785-3100