Issue 7, 2014

Memories of Sharon Schoolhouse

MY Issue 7, 2014

Joy

The

of

fall

Celebrating the Good Life

WHAT KINDLES MY FIRE

I’M A RUNNER WILL OA AFFECT ME? How to Treat OA Effectively

THE COLOR PURPLE

Family Haven’s Domestic Violence Program Celebrates 25 Year Anniversary

myforsyth.com www.myforsyth.com i

820 Peachtree Parkway | Cumming, GA 30041 Business Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00a-6:00p Sat: 8:00a-3:00p

www.ScottsAutoCenter.net ii www.myforsyth.com

Trusted experts delivering the latest in cardiac care Northside is home to a team of talented and experienced professionals specializing in comprehensive cardiovascular services. From leading diagnostic services to angioplasty and pacemaker implantation, Northside’s experts deliver leading cardiac care right in your community.

Visit us online at www.northside.com.

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ISSUE 7, 2014

ontents MY FORSYTH

IN THIS ISSUE

I’m a Runner: Will OA Affect Me? Learn about OA symptoms and treatments

Features 14 | 17 | 25 | 41 |

The Color Purple What Kindles My Fire What Are Publishers Looking For? Where is the Outrage?

Lifyestyle 15 | 24 | 34 |

Let’s Make Others Feel Significant The Reality of Regrets The Tools of the Trade

My Home

14 | ‘Tis the Season for Fall Planting!

18 | Home Exposure using Professional Photography

Forsyth Foodie 20 |

SIP: Where Small Treats are Big in Flavor!

My Business 22 | 38 |

Local Retail Sector Rebounds Making Your Own Luck and Networking Success

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Health & Wellness 25 |

27 |

32 |

Faith 39 |

Your Encyclopedia of Breast Cancer Prevention Sunshine, Open Payments and Trusting your Physician Nutrition for Your Eyes

Building Your Kids

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Memories of Sharon Schoolhouse

“don’t miss a thing” we’re mobile... www.myforsyth.com

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IN E VE RY IS S U E 11 | 12 | 24 |

43 |

News Around Forsyth Forsyth County Government News Book Review: My Other Ex: Women’s True Stories of Leaving and Losing Friends The Country Preacher

$bigsavings

CHECK OUT PAGE 50 FOR EXCLUSIVE COUPON OFFERS

Cover Photograph Courtesy of Adam Pendleton

North Georgia’s Outdoor Adventures HERCULES HOUSE MOVERS

D ON' T WANT TO MOV E? W E CAN H E LP!

Sawnee Mountain Preserve • Tree top canopy walk (Aerial Adventure Park with zip lines and climbing tower coming soon!)

• Grandparent/grandchild hikes • Geocaching • Environmental education programs: classes, camps, special events, home school afternoons/ school-based • Tree climbing and nature birthday party themes • Rock climbing

Throughout Forsyth County • Mountain biking • White water kayaking • Recreational canoeing and kayaking • 8 passive parks, 25+ miles of natural surface multi-use trails, 7 miles of greenway trails and 2 water trails • Dogs are welcome in other parks Imagine rock climbing, trail running or hiking in Forsyth, canoeing the Etowah and Chattahoochee River water trails, tree climbing or taking a canopy walk – all in a picturesque setting against the backdrop of North Georgia’s breathtaking mountains. Plan your next office retreat, scout event, family reunion or just a fun day with friends. We will work with you to tailor a program to accommodate your needs. Want to get out on the lake or explore local rivers with your family this weekend, but don’t have the gear? We also offer a rental program for adventure gear. Items available for rent include: canoes, recreational kayaks and white water kayaks.

For more information, please call (770) 781-2217.

Forsyth County Outdoor Recreation • 4075 Spot Rd. • Cumming, GA 30040 • (770) 781-2217

www.forsythco.com/parks • www.sawneemountain.org

Foundation Repair Floor Leveling House Raising New Construction Building Moving & Shoring HerculesHouseMovers.com 770.235.7999 www.myforsyth.com 5

Making memories that last a lifetime!

Our mission is to help children reach their potential through mentoring relationships with responsible adults.

Join us! www.mentormenorthga.org 678-341-8028

ISSUE 7, 2014

CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER Market Complete LLC julie@marketcomplete.com 678.614.8583 EDITOR Rachel Buckley rachel@myforsyth.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Laurie Hunter Channing Parham lhunter50@gmail.com doingitdivine.com PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates kimbatesphotoart.com Adam Pendelton adampendelton.com TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATOR Michael Barton michael@myforsyth.com 770.268.3893 PRINTING EBA Media Solutions treb-atl.com 770.500.2075

Help make a difference in a child’s life No Special skills or experience needed...

Donate or Volunteer!

The mission of My Forsyth magazine, a publication of Market Complete LLC, is to provide readers with a monthly publication with stories and information about their communities and its people. Each month, 22,000 copies of your community magazine are distributed via direct mail and throughout local businesses as part of our rack distribution. We welcome your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the MarketComplete LLC. The Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. My Forsyth is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2014 My Forsyth • www.myforsyth.com 5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 (p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511

6 www.myforsyth.com

CUMMING DANCE ACADEMY

Graceful Strong

in Dance in Character C o ming Soon

Holiday

Celebration 2014

Our 11th annual production of holiday favorites!

MY FORSYTH FAVORITE DANCE STUDIO 2010-2014

FAVORITES

2014

NEW LOCATION

CDA III (Buford Highway Location) 1676 Buford Highway Cumming, GA 30041

CDA I (MAIN OFFICE) | 419 TRIBBLE CAP ROAD | CUMMING, GA 30040 CDA II (Performance Academy) | 230 Elm Street Stes 100-300 | Cumming, GA 30040 0:770.781.4922|f:770-781-2667

WWW.CUMMINGDANCEACADEMY.COM www.myforsyth.com 7

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MYFORSYTH | ISSUE 7, 2014

UBLISHER’s Letter CELEBRATING FALL

and hit-and-miss engines. Live demonstrations of a cotton gin, saw mill, hay bales, baker fan, and cutoff saws are also scheduled.

With the recent “chamber of commerce” days we’ve enjoyed lately, it’s hard to imagine not having a reason to celebrate this beautiful time of the year. With festivals, sports activities and outdoor events in full swing, the magnificence of Mother Nature’s bounty is joyful.

Each passing day is a gentle reminder to take advantage of the beauty around us, and that despite the focus on bad things that happen in our world, good prevails, if we allow it do so.

So why not celebrate fall with a few fun-filled activities — alone or with others?

Here are a few ideas for your consideration:

TAKE A HIKE!

Forsyth County’s trails are plenty, and Sawnee Mountain Preserve offers residents and visitors a wide range of opportunities t enjoy the great outdoors — mountain biking, white water kayaking, canoeing, passive parks, multi-use trails, greenway trails, and water trails, to name a few.

CUMMING STEAM, ANTIQUE TRACTOR & GAS ENGINE EXPOSITION

The Cumming Fairgrounds features a variety of events year-round. On November 7th and 8th, the steam and tractor exposition features all types of antique power equipment, including steam engines, tractors

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EAT A LITTLE. . .

Or a lot! The 2014 National BBQ Cup is a KCBSsanctioned BBQ Cook-Off. The event includes an opportunity for you to taste championship ‘que and decide for yourself which is the best! More than $23,000 in cash prizes will be awarded to pro and backyard teams.

Enjoy food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, product demonstrations, live entertainment, and a kid’s zone with a huge variety of fun for kids and kids at heart. Don’t miss out on two days of finger lickin’ good fun – November 21st and 22nd.

There are lots of other events in Forsyth County, North Georgia and throughout the state. Whether your plans keep you right here at home or take you to other places, make sure you get the chance to enjoy the beauty of fall.

And as many of my friends say… Happy Fall, Y’all!

Julie Brennan

Publisher julie@marketcomplete.com

I’m a Runner: Will OA Affect Me? A

ccording to the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects about 27 million Americans. Symptoms include pain, stiffness and swelling in and around joints.

With every stride, ballistic forces move through a runner’s knee. Common sense would suggest that repeatedly applying such loads to a joint should eventually degrade its protective cartilage, leading to arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) can make daily activities more difficult.

Your fingers may feel stiff when you try to grasp a pen, your lower back may ache as you lean over to open a drawer, or your knees may hurt when you bend down to pick an item off the floor.

Dr. Robert K. Yarbrough, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon and avid runner, lacrosse player, and youth lacrosse coach at West Forsyth High School, has treated numerous patients with osteoarthritis.

What Happens in OA?

OA occurs when parts of a joint, including cartilage, bones, fluid or its membrane lining change and break down, usual over years. Cartilage and joint fluid cushion and lubricate a joint, easing the motion of bones. When these joint components break down, movement becomes difficult or painful. In OA, joints can feel stiff. Each movement can be painful and joints can swell, further hindering movement.

“Because OA is a common disease, too many people shrug off its seriousness or believe the effects are inevitable as part of the aging process. OA symptoms can hinder your ability to live and work normally if you don’t take steps to prevent further joint damage, manage your pain and increase your flexibility,” explained Dr. David Covall with Northside Arthritis Center, located in Alpharetta. Dr. Covall is a Board Certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of injuries to the musculoskeletal system.

Running and Knee Arthritis

Many believe that running can cause arthritis and ruins knees, in particular non-runners. This idea is a myth and distance running is unlikely to contribute to the development of arthritis, precisely and paradoxically because it involves so much running.

“Persistent knee swelling, locking and pain, which cause limping, can be signs of serious joint injury. When these symptoms do not resolve, surgery may be indicated; however surgical treatment is usually not the first or even the second treatment option when dealing with arthritic knee. Other options like activity modification, therapy, medications and joint preserving injections are always considered initially,” Dr. Yarbrough explained.

If you believe you suffer from OA, the best course of action is to visit your physician. During the physical examination, your doctor will look for: l l l l l l l l l

Joint swelling, warmth, or redness Tenderness about the knee Range of passive (assisted) and active (self-directed) motion Instability of the joint Crepitus (a grating sensation inside the joint) with movement Pain when weight is placed on the knee Problems with your gait (the way you walk) Any signs of injury to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the knee Involvement of other joints (an indication of rheumatoid arthritis)

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Total or partial knee replacement (arthroplasty). Your doctor will remove the damaged cartilage and bone, and then position new metal or plastic joint surfaces to restore the function of your knee.

How can you treat OA?

Depending on the severity of your OA, steps can be taken to prevent your OA from worsening.

Simple stretching and regular, easy exercises can reduce OA pain, lover joint-straining weight, and increase your joint’s flexibility.

“A visit to your physician will diagnose the severity of your particular case and the best course of treatment. OA, while not curable, for now, is manageable. Along with your doctor and other health-care professionals, you can control the way OA affects your body over time,” Dr. Covall asserted.

Lifestyle changes, diet, physical activity, medications and supplements, surgery, and most importantly, a positive attitude about how you will keep living fully as a person with osteoarthritis are key to your success when dealing with osteoarthritis.n

DID YOU KNOW?

Your doctor may recommend surgery if your pain from arthritis causes disability and is not relieved with nonsurgical treatment. Surgical procedures include: l

Arthroscopy. During arthroscopy, doctors use small incisions and thin instruments to diagnose and treat joint problems. Arthroscopic surgery is not often used to treat arthritis of the knee. In cases where osteoarthritis is accompanied by a degenerative meniscal tear, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to treat the torn meniscus.

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Cartilage grafting. Normal, healthy cartilage tissue may be taken from anotNormal, healthy cartilage tissue may be taken from another part of the knee or from a tissue bank to fill a hole in the articular cartilage.

This procedure is typically considered only for younger patients who have small areas of cartilage damage.

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Synovectomy. The joint lining damaged by rheumatoid arthritis is removed to reduce pain and swelling.

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Osteotomy. In a knee osteotomy, either the tibia (shinbone) or femur (thighbone) is cut and then reshaped to relieve pressure on the knee joint. Knee osteotomy is used when you have early-stage osteoarthritis that has damaged just one side of the knee joint. By shifting your weight off the damaged side of the joint, an osteotomy can relieve pain and significantly improve function in your arthritic knee.

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New research presented earlier this year at the Experimental Biology Conference in San Diego, California, suggests that regular grape consumption may help alleviate pain associated with symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee, and improve joint flexibility and overall mobility. Researchers attribute these potential benefits to the polyphenols found in grapes.

Source: California table Grape Commission, May 2014

For More Information Contact: Northside Arthritis Center 770-667-4053 3400-C Old Milton Pkwy, Ste 190 | Alpharetta GA 30005

NEWS

A ROU N D FOR SY T H

Happy

Thanksgiving!

JOHNSTON JOINS SCOTT’S AUTO CENTER

Kevin M. Johnston has joined Scott’s Auto Center as a Service Advisor. Johnston has over 30 years of experience in the industry, with 24 years as the manager of Wood & Fullerton Goodyear.

Johnson is a resident of the Longlake Community in Cumming.

“I look forward to helping our current and new customers at Scott’s Auto Center and am delighted to be part of this great group of professionals and experts in the field of car care!”

LOUIE’S BIG DAY! HAS ARRIVED

The first in the Louie-the-Lawnmower book series, “Louie’s BIG day!” is now available on Amazon. The book , written by Maria Morgan, tells the story of Louie, a bright red lawnmower who used to live at the hardware store with his friends Ruthie Rake, Eddie Edger, Bobbie Blower, Terri Trowel, and Henri Hose.

After Louie is purchased, he realizes he misses his friends, but it’s time to find out if he can do the job he was made to do.

FALL FUN! PARKS AND RECREATION ACTIVITY GUIDE IS ONLINE

Looking for the latest information on recreational activities and programs available this fall? Forsyth County Parks and Recreation’s Fall Activity Guide is now available. Look for the icon under ‘Special Features’ on the home page at www.forsythco.com to view the Activity Guide online.

The book is available on Amazon, and a free audiobook version is available online at http://www. mariaimorgan.wix.com/louie-the-lawnmower.

ATLANTA CARDIAC ADDS NEW PHYSICIAN Atlanta Cardiac and Thoracic Surgical Associates is pleased to welcome Dr. Shady M. Eldaif to the group.

Dr. Eldaif is a proud Georgia native. He grew up in Roswell and attended Roswell High School and then went on to attend Emory University where he graduated with dual degrees in Chemistry and Near Eastern Studies. He stayed at Emory to attend the School of Medicine as well as to complete both his General Surgery Residency and Cardiothoracic Surgical Fellowship. During his surgical training, Dr. Eldaif spent an additional two years conducting novel cardiothoracic research focused on improving surgical outcomes. Dr. Eldaif then went on to complete a highly specialized Advanced Thoracic Robotic Fellowship at the University of Alabama Birmingham so that he may offer his patients the most sophisticated and cutting edge therapies available. Dr. Eldaif is currently accepting new patients in his Cumming office, located at 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 410. Appointments can be made by calling 770-292-2880. www.myforsyth.com 11

FORSY T H C OUN T Y GOVERNMEN T NE WS 110 E. MAIN STREET, SUITE 210 | TV FORSYTH – COMCAST CHANNEL 23 | FORSYTHCO.COM

NEW FORSYTH COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER NOW OPEN Forsyth County recently opened its new animal shelter. The new Forsyth County Animal Shelter is located just off of GA 400 at 4065 County Way in northern Forsyth County.

Construction of the approximately 13,700-square foot facility was funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) VII program approved by voters in 2011. Prior to opening the new shelter, the county contracted out shelter operations.

“We are very excited to open the new Forsyth County Animal Shelter,” Animal Shelter Manager Chris Peninger said. “We encourage residents to visit us at their convenience to see this great new facility.”

The shelter’s hours for adoptions are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The shelter’s hours to drop-off or reclaim an animal are Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FIRE DEPARTMENT PUTS THREE NEW ENGINES IN SERVICE The Forsyth County Fire Department recently welcomed into its fleet three new pieces of firefighting apparatus. Three new Pierce fire engines are now in service.

The new engines are housed at Fire Station 1 on Castleberry Industrial Drive in downtown Cumming; Fire Station 10 on Old Atlanta Road in south Forsyth County; and Fire Station 12 on Settingdown Road in north Forsyth County.

“These three new engines are important components of the fire department’s five-year plan,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “They are critical pieces of equipment that will, without question, assist our firefighters as they perform their daily fire suppression and emergency response missions. They will also help boost departmental efficiency and enhance the safety of our personnel.”

Funding for the new engines came from the Fire Department budget and the department’s reserve funds. The county has twelve staff engines currently in service.

The new engines replaced aging engines which are now a part of the department’s reserve fleet.

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TV FORSYTH IS NOW ON AT&T More people are now able to tune in and keep up with Forsyth county government via television, as TV Forsyth has expanded to AT&T U-Verse. TV Forsyth is Forsyth County’s 24-hour government cable channel and has been broadcast on Comcast channel 23 since late 2007.

It is now also available on AT&T U-Verse channel 99. AT&T U-Verse customers must first tune in to channel 99 and then follow the menu navigation options to select TV Forsyth.

FALL FUN! PARKS AND RECREATION ACTIVITY GUIDE IS ONLINE Looking for the latest information on recreational activities and programs available this fall? Forsyth County Parks and Recreation’s Fall Activity Guide is now available. Look for the icon under ‘Special Features’ on the home page at www.forsythco.com to view the Activity Guide online.

CASA OF FORSYTH COUNTY, INC. RECEIVES NATIONAL CERTIFICATION The CASA of Forsyth County Program was recently awarded certification by the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association recognizing CASA of Forsyth County, Inc.’s compliance with National CASA’s high standards for quality child advocacy.

According to Michael Piraino, CEO of the National CASA Association, “The National CASA quality assurance process is very rigorous, and reflects our commitment to ensure every child we serve has the most powerful volunteer advocate working on their behalf. This certification says CASA of Forsyth County, Inc. has demonstrated to us a strong capacity to provide excellent services to the abused and neglected children within their community.

CASA of Forsyth County is celebrating 10 years of dedicated advocacy in Forsyth County. Last year, with the help of four full-time paid staff supporting 80 volunteers providing advocacy services, 218 abused and/or neglected children were served in our community. To find out how to join our efforts as a CASA volunteer, please contact Advocacy Director, Lori Pupp at 770.886.4082 or lcpupp@ forsythco.com or visit www.forsythcountycasa.org.

WATCH TIME-LAPSE VIDEOS OF NEW COURTHOUSE AND JAIL CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS Time-lapse videos of the ongoing construction of Forsyth County’s new courthouse and jail are available for viewing on the county Web site at www.forsythco.com.

View weekly progress from either Cumming City Hall or the existing Forsyth County Courthouse, as well the progress-to-date time-lapse, which includes footage from the beginning of construction.

To view the videos, visit www.forsythco.com and click on the Courthouse and Jail Project Update icon under ‘Special Features.’

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Purple

The Color

by Ruth Goode

I

t was twenty years ago that the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was signed into law. Coincidentally, it was also the year Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were brutally murdered. Ms. Simpson prophesied, “I’m afraid this man will kill me some day.” With numerous reported and documented incidents of domestic violence, there were never any real consequences for Mr. Simpson. It was one of those times that I remember where I was when the “not guilty” verdict was announced and having a feeling of profound sadness for the victims and their families.

Through the years, with each reauthorization of VAWA, more protections have been added, but here we are twenty years later and while I hope the number of domestic violence cases have dropped and there are more perpetrators being convicted, we still have far to go.

This is evidenced by the current gut-wrenching “elevator video” which has recently surfaced.

T Our Mission

To improve lives in our community by mobilizing the caring power and spirit of our citizens.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you can call Family Haven’s hotline at 770-887-1121.

For more information and to support this organization, please call 770-889-6384 14 www.myforsyth.com

his year, Forsyth County Family Haven, our local domestic violence program is celebrating its twentyfifth year of serving victims. We are truly fortunate to have such a valuable resource in our county. Through the years, there’s no doubt that many lives have been saved and many lives have been changed because they are here. Their goal is to provide comprehensive services to individuals and their children who have experienced family violence, to educate and train the community on the issue of family violence/sexual assault, to increase self-sufficiency and to reduce recidivism.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and that’s a reason to wear purple. I was taught many years ago that the color purple represents the bruises victims endure. I recently saw another version of why purple is worn. “The Purple Heart is presented to those who have been wounded. Survivors of Domestic Violence are invariably wounded, both physically and emotionally.

The color represents the courage of the survivor.” I like the latter version much better.n

Ruth Goode is the Executive Director of the United Way Forsyth. She may be reached at 770.781.4110 or ruth@ unitedwayforsyth.com

Let’s Make Others Feel

Significant

by Christine Roberts

W

e finally synced up our schedules and were sitting at dinner engaged in conversation. She asked me what was going on in my life, she seemed interested. I was enthusiastically sharing the ups and the downs. As I was midsentence pouring my heart and soul out, she reached down and picked up her phone looking at it with intent. WOW! A crushing feeling of being insignificant hit me. I guess what I was saying wasn’t very important; maybe I’m not very important?

How many of us do this, with our family, friends, colleagues and even acquaintances? We have so many distractions. It’s not just our phones that cause us to detach from conversations, it’s all the noise in our society. Our pace is so crazy that we’re constantly thinking of other “stuff” even when we’re opening the mail or backing out of the driveway.

There are so many times that my husband or children are talking to me and it’s like I hear the words but they are not registering in my brain because I’m thinking about something else. Do you ever do this, you’re preparing dinner and your child comes home from school sharing something that’s important to them but you totally tune them out and give canned responses. You would not be able to explain back what they said if your life depended on it. Or you’re talking to a friend while doing your email and as she shares a story you suddenly realize you have no idea what she said.n continued on page 46

Christine Roberts volunteers with Mentor Me-North GA. She is also an author, motivational speaker, certified child advocate, former corporate manager, wife and mother of two children. Contact: christine@cmrobertsllc.com.

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A Few Great Fall Plants!

Anise Hyssop Chrysanthemum

Turtlehead

by Casey Norris

H

ave you started yet? The cooler temperatures and falling leaves, with a slight change in their colors, mean one thing – fall is here! Gatherings and festivals are vast, with opportunities to enjoy the beautiful season readily available for us all to enjoy.

Fall Crocus

Monkshood Lead Plant

For many, mums are the first plants of the fall season and are the perfect plants to bridge the gap between summer and winter. They can take the heat and deliver unmatched color at the beginning of the fall season. Most mums, if planted in the ground, will come back the following year.

Other fall plants include pansies and violas as well as cabbages and snapdragons.

They don’t do well in the heat; timing is very important to their health when planting them. When planted too early they may stretch and become leggy. They are more prone to get fungus starting in their lower leaf structure. Bugs also thrive in the stretched out structure because it holds more moisture on the surface of the leaves.

Aphid is an insect that loves the wet undersides of the leaves and stems.

Planting violas, pansies, and other fall plants as the nights become cooler and the days are still warm enough to get a good root system down before winter.

It is also important to decrease the amount and frequency of watering during the fall and winter months. Plants are smaller and temperatures are lower so less water is needed. When planting fall and winter crops in the ground, I recommend watering once every three days for three weeks; after the first three weeks then only water once a week. This cuts down on bugs fungus and will help your plants thrive.

Watering too often means water is available on or near the surface of the soil. For this reason roots systems remain shallow, which require more frequent watering and will be damaged by extreme cold. Watering once a week makes roots dig deeper into the soil to seek out the moisture; the deeper the root system the heartier the plant. Remember to amend the soil when planting fall crops because they need a little better drainage.n

Here’s to the Beauty of Fall.

Happy Planting!

Casey Norris may be reached at Ladyslipper Rare Plant Nursery at 770.345.2998.

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Japanese Anemone Spider Lily

Sedum Perennial Sunflower

Aster Goldenrod

The real estate team

Marie Dinsmore www.myforsyth.com 17

e r u s l o a p n x o i E s e s e m f o o r H gP y h p n a i r g us

o t o Ph

by A

T

n

he real estate market can be finicky. Today we may find ourselves in a seller’s market, the next we can be in a buyer’s market, or somewhere in between. Navigating these changes can be challenging, and only the brave (and possibly unwise) try to navigate them without the expertise of a real estate professional. leto

end

P dam

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1

Photographs are a central component of marketing a property.

ne of the most valuable assets a Realtor brings to the table is exposure through marketing.

In short, the more buyers that see your property for sale, the better chance it will sell, and at a higher price. 90% of buyers begin their home search online, and the first things they see are the images your Realtor produces of your home. Is your Realtor taking the images of your home themselves, or are they hiring a professional photographer? Does it matter? We believe it does, and here are some great reasons why.

2

The primary function photos perform is the get prospective buyers to come look at the property.

3

Homes photographed by a professional leave the potential buyer with a better expectation and feel for the home even before visiting.

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eed more reasons? The vast majority of agents that take their own listing images use consumer level equipment.

What is consumer level equipment? That’s ‘fancy talk’ for their cell phone, and since it is much easier to SHOW you the difference, here are some before and after images of a local home for sale. The first is taken with a cell phone; the second is taken by a professional photographer.

4

Great photos often generate multiple showings and multiple offers resulting in a higher sales price.

5

Most agents try to take listing images themselves, so professional images stand out.

Before

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hen you decide it is time to sell your home, hire a Realtor that works with a professional photographer. You, and your wallet, will be glad you did.

After

Adam Pendleton specializes in dynamic wedding, portrait, and architectural photography.

Adam comes to photography with nearly 20 years in the music industry and a sensibility for aesthetics often overlooked. He may be reached at 678.208.7077.

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v

B O WhatKindles B O my fire

by Ava Clavijo

I

know I mostly talk to you guys about food, but I’ve chosen a different topic.

What I want people to know and do (if they want to) is, when you feel down, tell yourself, “I am strong, I am powerful, and I can make a difference”. What I want to talk to you about is making a difference. It doesn’t matter what you look like, it doesn’t matter how old you are, what matters is that you stand up and stand out for what you believe in and make a change in the world. My dream is to stand out and help people in need, and I believe we all should stand up for other people. I know it’s not cool to be the tattletale but, if someone is doing something really, really bad on the bus or at school or even out of school, always tell an adult.

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I

D

o you always feel rushed? Don’t worry – you’re not the only one.

That’s why I recommend Calm, an App in the App store. It’s free, and it works great.

There are seven steps of calm, and it helps you remember that life is simple. Also remember to never lose faith and belief in yourself. Other people believe in you, too.

f you feel it is necessary to stand up for people, or animals, the first thing you should do is ask someone to help you search for a local place to help out.

Here’s a scoop just for girls. American Girl books are great for young and older girls. They tell you different ways to believe in yourself and know that you are a good person. The magazine is also filled with fun activities and advice. They have helped me, and I know they’ll help you. Does your school have “Girls on the Run”? They give girls advice and help them know they are beautiful. Every girl’s dream is probably to be the prettiest or most popular in school, but that’s not what matters most.

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hat counts is how you treat every person, no matter their race or gender. You can also do this outside of school by being nice to others in the community. For instance, if there is an elderly person at the grocery store, you can ask if you can help them (with your parent’s permission).

canvas, Life is your what you want!

paint

Ava age 10, is a student at Cumming Elementary School. She enjoys trying new foods and restaurants. She may be reached at ava@myforsyth.com

www.myforsyth.com 19

Forsyth Foodie

SIP Where Small Treats are Big in Flavor!

I

f you are looking for a treat for your palate, where taste and quantity are combined perfectly to give you just the right amount of food, you definitely need to check out SIP. Since it’s opening at The Collection in Forsyth, SIP has redefined the way we look at food – blending a unique combination of foods into a tasty bounty of flavors. Adding to their exquisite foods are beer and wine choices to meet the most elite taste.

Sip is a retail wine shop and tapas restaurant with over 50 wines that may be ordered by the 1 ounce sip, the half glass, full glass or bottle and another 150 more wines by the bottle. Tapas is a dining style popular throughout Spain. Dishes are designed for sharing and offer guests to experience multiple dishes and flavors. Any wine enjoyed in the restaurant, may be purchase to take home.

A few of their unique dinner tapas menu items include Buratta in a Jar Creamy mozzarella, fig jam and crostini, Grilled Shrimp & Grits White cheddar, tasso cream, logan turnpike mill grits and Blackened Ahi Tuna Asian pear, chick pea salad, blood orange gastrique.

I was very happy to try these tapas during one of my many visits to SIP, and knew I’d be coming back for more.

The dessert choices are rewarding and complement every tasty treat delightfully.

Fridays and Saturdays feature a 5-Course Chef Table, with wine pairings and a variety of tapas, selected by SIP’s culinary expert, Chef DeMichiel. Seatings are available at 6:30 and 8:30pm.

Chef DeMichiel has an impressive culinary pedigree. DeMichiel obtained his bachelor’s degree from the Culinary Institute of America. He is most well known for creating Maison LA, which focused on quality event catering and the use of organic, sustainable, and local products. His expertise inspired the cuisine and atmosphere of numerous restaurants, including European-inspired restaurants offering high-end, small plates.

The freshness of the ingredients, presentation of the foods, and elegant yet rustic atmosphere are beautifully combined to allow each guest to experience the uniqueness of SIP. Brunch, lunch and dinner, along with catering, are available at SIP Restaurant.n

“unique self-serve wine set-up” 20 www.myforsyth.com

www.sipwineshop.com 440 Peachtree Parkway Cumming GA 678-513-0791

Congratulations!

(Now Let’s Celebrate) Whether you’re planning an intimate rehearsal dinner, or a large reception for your entire wedding party, we have a beautiful space for your celebration with exceptional food and wine. Want to use your own space? We can do that too. Please contact us and we’ll create every last detail to make your occasion truly special.

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Local Retail Sector

Rebounds...

by Randall Toussaint

I

n December of 2013 the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce conducted a retail opportunity gap analysis to assess the condition of Forsyth County’s retail market. The report revealed that the community was underserved in several major retail sectors.

In January of 2014 the Chamber of Commerce announced plans to address this issue by growing the commercial segment of Forsyth County’s tax digest from its current level of 20% to 25% over the next 5 years. The plan, which is appropriately named Business First, specifically calls for the recruitment of new restaurants, hotels, and large-scale retail establishments.

Historically, the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has successfully recruited retailers to Forsyth County and the City of Cumming. Past projects include such establishments as Academy Sports, Carrabba’s, and Value Place Hotel; as well as the expansion of the Hampton Inn on Buford Highway.

Since January of 2014 these successes have continued to occur at an accelerated pace. According to recent reports, the Chamber of Commerce successfully recruited a new Fairfield Marriott to The Collection Shopping Center. The project is expected to generate 15 new jobs and $7 million in new capital investment.

In 2013 the Chamber of Commerce successfully assisted the Lou Sobh team

22 www.myforsyth.com

with opening a new Honda dealership within Cumming. The organization is currently assisting the Lou Sobh team with bringing a new $10 million Kia dealership to the community as well. The project is forecasted to create approximately 50 new jobs and $10 million in new capital investment.

This year the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce also participated in the expansion of Polo Golf & Country Club and Lenny’s Sub Shop.

Collectively, Polo Golf & Country Club’s remodeling project and Lenny’s Sub Shop’s expansion into Bald Ridge Marina are projected to generate over 50 new jobs and approximately $2 million in new capital investment.

According to recent reports from the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, the revitalization of Lakeland Plaza has remained a focal point of their retail recruitment efforts. In 2013 Lakeland Plaza located on the Southwest corner of the intersection of GA highway 20 and GA 400 – experienced the loss of such anchor tenants as Kroger, Blockbuster Video, and SteinMart. In keeping with the Business First retail recruitment strategy, the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has partnered with retailers and real estate brokers to fill each of the vacant locations. Blockbuster Video’s former location has been successfully redeveloped into the new home of Panera Bread. Additionally, the former Kroger location will soon become the new home

of JoAnn Fabric — the nation’s largest specialty retailer of fabrics and one of the largest specialty retailers of crafts. These expansions have been echoed by a flurry of developments along GA Highway 20 – including the remodeling of Arby’s and Wendy’s; and by the opening of Buffalo’s and Texas Road House.

Since January of 2014 the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce has also attracted several major grocers to the community, including Aldi and Costco. As a leader in the grocery retailing industry Aldi operates nearly 1,300 stores in 32 states, primarily from Kansas to the East Coast. Aldi’s newest location on Buford Highway is forecasted to generate 15 new jobs and $2.2 million in new capital investment. Additionally, Costco’s newest location is forecasted to bring 200 new jobs to the community.

If you would like to suggest a restaurant or store that you would like to see in our community, please contact the Chamber of Commerce at 770.887.6461, or recommend a location via Facebook at www.facebook.com/ CummingForsythChamber .n

Randall Toussaint is the Vice-President of the Cumming Forsyth Chamber of Commerce. He may be reached at 770.887.6461.

The Reality of Regrets

by Parkey Thompson

USA Today Survey: respondents say they 45% of wish they had saved more money

respondents say they 31% of wish they had made better investments

respondents say they 21% of wish they had stayed closer to family

respondents say they 15% of wish they had worked longer

Parkey Thompson is a personal financial coach. He may be reached at 678.648.9940. Visit www.myfinancialfocus.net for more information about his services.

I recently listened to a message at my church that was entitled, The Reality of Regrets. In a somewhat humorous, yet very serious way, the speaker shared what many have suffered as a result of regrets.

Two days later, I was listening to the car radio as I was parking to go speak about managing money and my business. The radio announcer shared the results of a recent survey of older Americans and their regrets. He pointed out that the older people get the more they begin to look to the past and wish that they had made better choices. After all, life is full of the choices we make.

I returned to the office to find that a client had sent me an email with the link to this same survey sharing what those older Americans now had regrets about and what they were optimistic about as they aged.

As I “re-hashed” that message, the radio story, and the newspaper study, it caused me to reflect. I have come to realize that all of us have regrets. Those regrets are an end result of the choices that we have made at some point in our life. All of our choices have repercussions and the results of those may lead to regrets.

A few of the responses that were shared about regrets from respondents in the survey that appeared in USA Today are listed in the sidebar.

The good news is that you are still around to make changes in each one of these areas the respondents addressed above - and more! The bad news is there is nothing they, or you, can do to go back to things differently.

Are you one of those who today are making choices that will fill you with regret as you get later in life? Or are you living for today, knowing the future is continued on page 46

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M

y Other Ex: Women’s True Stories of Leaving and Losing Friends is a compilation of essays about the painful passage that most of us have experienced – when a friendship comes to an end. I can’t help but think of that famous friendship poem that periodically makes it around the internet. “People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.” This collection has all three covered. Although most of the stories are about loss, some contain the element of reconciliation.

The anthology was published by The Her Stories Project, a blogger website that was created by Jessica Smock and Stephanie Sprenger (the editors of this book). The site offers female writers the opportunity to share their tales of friendship. he quality of the writing in this collection has produced a book with a literary tone that will resonate women - because we love our girlfriends! Girlfriends are universal and the bonds we establish with other women often transcend age, race, religion or socio-economic factors. Unfortunately, our friends also have the power to break our hearts. he most compelling aspect of the book is its writers’ courage in telling their

T

T

BOOK

honestly with which the essays are written is what makes this such an engrossing Review and heartbreaking read. These women

BY ALLIE SMITH poured their hearts out and I cried more than once.

“My Other Ex: Women’s True Stories of think my favorite part of the book was Leaving and Losing Friends” the last section, What We’ve Learned.

Edited by Jessica Smock & Stephanie Sprenger This section featured essays that were reflections of the change in the role that friendship has played in an author’s life.

One particular essay by Linda Wolf, titled Frenemies, really hit home. Wolf shared the types of friends that she’s let slip away or distanced herself from over the years – some of them being liars, gossips and negative people. I love this line she wrote, “To them I am grateful for the lessons learned and say a hearty, ‘Good riddance.’”

Amen sister! Life is too short for friends like that. I would rather spend my time stories. Some of them are pretty gritty. reading books like this! The book is a Oh, it gets very personal and I became must-read for any woman who’s lost a emotionally invested in each tale. So friend.n much so, that I wanted to scratch a few Allie Smith is an avid reader, traveler and the mother of four eyes out! A number of authors took the fall children. You can follow her on for the end of a friendship. The pictures Goodreads or her blog www. thelatchkeymom.com. She can be they painted were not pretty, and it took reached at asreadsforsyth@gmail. com. guts to reveal them. But I think the raw

I

470.239.8547

24 www.myforsyth.com

PUBLISHERS

es

Looking For?

eCair gela D

By An

What Are

I

f you’re writing a book and are hoping to get it picked up by a traditional publisher, you know that it needs to be a “good book.” But publishers are looking for so much more when deciding whether or not to publish a manuscript. Having a better sense of what publishers are looking for will help increase the chance that a publisher will be interested in your manuscript—and you. Here are some things to keep in mind: The manuscript: Do you have a story to tell that hasn’t been told? Do you give something a fresh perspective? Does the manuscript have a great hook? These are critical for a publisher or agent reviewing a manuscript. Does the book have a very clear, and delivered upon, value proposition?

What’s the goal or purpose of the book, and what will a reader get out of it when they’re done reading? If you promise the reader something in the introduction, be sure you’ve delivered on it throughout the book.

The Audience: Does the book have a clear target audience, and is it written for that audience? If you’re writing a children’s book but using wording more appropriate for YA, that’s a big turnoff for publishers or agents. You should not only have a specific target audience in mind, but the book should be appropriate for the audience. Avoid sending out a manuscript with these kinds of issues by not only self-editing, but by also working with a professional book editor. It’s key that the final manuscript be free of errors. Any more than one error in spelling, punctuation, or grammar, and most agents or publishers won’t keep looking at the manuscript, regardless of other factors.

Be sure that the publishers you submit to are interested in the genre of your book. Don’t submit a business book to a publisher who focuses on romance novels. It may seem obvious, but authors who don’t do enough research on publishers (or even agents) and their submissions guidelines make this type

A

of mistake. The author: Are you an expert in the subject matter? If you’re writing a book on relationships, your qualification shouldn’t just be that you’ve been on a lot of dates. You should have credentials and expertise in the field, perhaps as a psychologist or counselor.

Agents and publishers will check your bio, your LinkedIn, etc. to learn more about you and your background in a specific field or topic.

Do you have a following? Publishers are looking for manuscripts that can turn into best-selling books, and having an author who is well known or has some kind of established following guarantees an audience for the book when it’s released. How many followers do you have on Twitter? Do you have thousands of subscribers to your blog? Do you speak regularly on the topic of the book? More than ever, publishers are looking for books, and authors, that are going to be guaranteed sales for them, so the more you can prove that you have an audience for the book, the better.

nd this one goes without saying, but are you passionate about the topic? If you’re passionate about your work, it will come through in your writing, and ultimately make for a better manuscript. Don’t just write about a topic because you think it will be popular, or because someone else suggested it. Write about what you know, what’s important to you, what you have strong feelings about, and you’ll enjoy the process that much more!n

BookLogix offers free educational workshops.

For details visit BookLogix.com.

Angela DeCaires is the publishing director at BookLogix. She can be reached at 470-239-8547 or Angela@booklogix.com

www.myforsyth.com 25

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TO YOUR HEART!

Sunshine, Open Payments and Trusting your Physician

By Narendra Singh MD

IN

the coming month we will see for the first time data from the Physician Payments Sunshine Act now entitled the Open Payments Program. Open Payments is a national disclosure program that promotes transparency by publishing the financial relationships between the medical industry and healthcare providers (physicians and hospitals) on a publicly accessible website developed by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This public website will be organized and designed to increase access to and knowledge about these relationships and to provide information to enable consumers to make informed decisions.

The goal of the program is to increase transparency company to increase utilization of lifesaving drugs then in terms of the relationships that the industry has with the public is well-served. If a physician carries out a health care professionals and institutions. It is important high quality clinical trial that enhances our knowledge that the public understand the significance of these about the utility of a new drug then the practice of payments and what to do with the information. medicine is favorably advanced. If similar activities are Industry plays a vital role in health care, providing done for ulterior motives then we have a problem. significant support for research, patient care assistance, Conflicts of interest in medicine will always exist. and education of healthcare professionals. At the same Physicians are often given incentives to refer within time industry also has a mandate to its their own hospital network, use generic shareholders to maximize profitability drugs, order more tests or order less through sales and marketing. This can “The goal of the tests. Physicians often own their sometimes lead to interactions that own testing facilities and therefore program may be perceived inappropriate. have an inherent conflict of interest When a physician prescribes a a test is ordered. Surgeons is to increase when medication but also has accepted a that recommend an operation gain to transparency...” benefit financially from the procedure. meal during an educational program, spoke on behalf of the company or Academic institutions reward doctors for received payment for research work publications, patents and productivity. on the product, is this automatically inappropriate? The None of this is inherently wrong but disclosure is critical answer should be no, but disclosure of this information to maintaining trust. is important so that the recipient can make an informed Open payments should lead to open discussion with judgment on whether or not to accept the prescription or your physician. Your doctor should be able to justify any in some cases the device or procedure. perceived conflicts and should feel comfortable with If a dinner presentation enhances a physician’s your desire to receive an explanation . Trust is essential knowledge and safe use of a new drug then the interaction to a healthy patient-physician relationship. Truth and is beneficial. If a physician speaks on behalf of the honesty help build that trust. Let the sunshine in!n

Narendra Singh MD FRCPC FACC FAHA, is a Clinical Assistant Professor, Georgia Regents University in Augusta, and the Director-Clinical Research, Atlanta Heart Specialists, LLC. Dr. Singh studied at the Dalhouse Medical School in Halifax, Nova Scotia and went on to complete a residency and cardiology fellowship at the University of Toronto. He may be reached at 678.679.6800.

www.myforsyth.com 27

Relax. . .

Your Heart is in Good Hands!

At Atlanta Heart Specialists we provide the highest quality cardiovascular care for our patients, including advanced interventions, education, preventitive therapy, and much more.

“because after all you have better things to do!

Narendra Singh, MD FRPC FACC FAHA Director, Clinical Research Clin Asst Professor, Georgia Regents Univ

1500 Northside Blvd., Suite2500 Cumming GA 30041 | 678.679.6800 4375 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 350 Suwanee GA 30024 | 770.622.1622

www.HeartDrSingh.com 28 www.myforsyth.com

DO YOU SEE HALOS OR STREAKS AROUND STREET LIGHTS AT NIGHT?

by Dr. Mira Sivan

You’re not alone. This ‘image noise’ is a result of light traveling through your eyes that doesn’t focus at the same point. The affects are especially noticeable at night when your pupils are larger.

night glare

•Better night/low light vision: Looking directly at a light source at night, such as cars, results in glare and halo effects.

•We use Anti - Reflective coating that will: Reduce the glare from upcoming car headlights.

•Allow more natural light into your eyes - clearer vision.

•Reduce the reflection off of your lenses, so your eyes are more visible through the lenses.

clear, crisp vision

Don’t worry- no one has the ideal eye. Everyone has some amount of image noise, what’s different now is that we can do something about it! Together with a standard eye exam, we recommend the anti-reflective coating - for all lighting conditions.

This prescription can be used to create Customized eyeglass lenses to deliver the ultimate in visual performance, giving you the best vision possible.Don’t settle for vision that isn’t perfectly, clear.n

Dr. Mira Sivan is an optometrist with a private practice located at The Vickery in Cumming.

She may be reached at 678.648.5185. Visit her web site at www.fyeo-eyecare.com

ADOPT

DON’T BUY There is always something you can do for the Humane Society of Forsyth County!

HUMANE SOCIETY of Forsyth County

A NO KILL Shelter 4440 Keith Bridge Road Cumming GA 30041 770.887.6480 www.Forsythpets.org

Adopt | Foster | Volunteer | Advocate | Donate www.myforsyth.com 29

30 www.myforsyth.com

Diabetes?

Do You Know M

ore than 29 million Americans (1,000,000 in Georgia) have diabetes, but there are many myths about the disease that make it difficult for people to separate fact from fiction. Can you?

1.

2.

Tr u e o r F a l s e ?

Diabetes is not that serious of a disease.

False. If you manage your diabetes properly, you can prevent or delay diabetes complications. However, diabetes causes more deaths a year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.

Symptoms of diabetes include frequent colds and low energy caused by blood sugar fluctuations.

False. Diabetes often goes undetected because it has no obvious symptoms. In fact, 8 million Americans have diabetes and don’t even realize it because many of the symptoms seem non-threatening – unusual thirst, extreme hunger, increased fatigue and irritability.

3.

Eating too much sugar causes diabetes.

Actually, the answer to this one is not so simple. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetics and unknown factors that trigger the onset of the disease. Type 2 diabetes is caused by genetics and lifestyle factors. But eating a diet high in calories from any source can promote obesity, a major risk factor for diabetes.

4.

People with diabetes can eat chocolate and sweets.

5.

Fruit is a healthy food. Therefore, it is ok to eat as much of it as you wish.

True. There are no “off-limits” foods to people with diabetes. The key to sweets is to have a very small portion and save them for special occasions so you focus your meal on more healthful foods.

False. Fruit is a healthy food. It contains fiber and lots of vitamins and minerals. However, because fruits contain carbohydrates, they need to be included in your meal plan. Talk to your dietitian about the amount, frequency and types of fruits you should eat.

Northside Hospital’s Comprehensive Outpatient Diabetes Program gives patients the information, support and care they need to manage their illness and live healthy, rewarding lives. Classes are available in Atlanta, Cherokee and Forsyth.

In Atlanta & Forsyth, call (404) 851-6023 In Cherokee, call (678) 493-1503

www.northside.com/diabetes Source: American Diabetes Association www.myforsyth.com 31

Family HAVEN Haven FAMILY Celebrates Celebrates 25th 25th Anniversary Anniversary

Family Family Haven Haven celebrated its 25th anniversary of anniversary of of serving serving survivors survivors of domestic violence on October 9th.

The domestic violence on October 9th. The Purple Purpose Luncheon was held at Purple Purpose Luncheon was held at The Metropolitan Club in Alpharetta.

The Metropolitan Club in by Alpharetta.

Guests were welcomed Wendy Guests were welcomed by Wendy Corona, WSB-TV’s Anchor/Reporter.

Corona, The event WSB-TV’s included a Anchor/Reporter. keynote address TheFirst event included keynote by Lady Sandra a Deal, and aaddress story of survival

by Christy Denton.

Awards were

by First Lady Sandra Deal, and a story of presented to Michelle survival by Christy Denton.Toledo-Cainas Awards were with GeorgiatoLatinos Against Domestic presented Michelle Toledo-Cainas Violence, First Baptist Cumming and with Georgia Latinos Against Domestic Automation Direct. A silent auction of Violence, First Baptist Cumming and beautiful purses and a fall fashion show Automation A silent auction of by Chico’s atDirect.

The Collection of Forsyth beautiful and aat fallthe fashion were alsopurses showcased event.show

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“ TRADE

by Rookmin Maharaj

W

hether you are searching for your first job, looking for the next step, or even changing career paths, it all comes down to having the right tools in your toolbox. So what should you keep in your trusty box to help get that door open in the job or career advancement project?

Being Particular — In mapping out your career path, or going beyond your first job out of college, it is critical to know what you want and how you want it. Defining your professional goals is important to the search because it makes you more efficient. When using technology, define your search perimeters on the various job boards. Come up with a plan to follow up after submitting that application. When talking to recruiters it helps them to better help you if you explain your limitations, for example, location, commute, hours and other commitments.

Writing… it matters!

Need a ghost writer, blogger, or editor?

Contact Allie Smith at allie.mcsmith@gmail.com

“

The Tools of The

Frequently update your toolbox - make regular visits to your toolbox to review any changes.

Having a Career Plan — This allows you to navigate the job market while staying on course. Now there will be times when you will have to be open to steering you search ship a little off course, but by having a plan it will be easier to get back on course. A plan will also help you be focused and dedicated to your goal and getting closer to your ideal position. A plan also allows you to be flexible in your considering of postings. How you might ask? Well it reminds you that even though you may have to consider a position that is not exactly what you are looking for; it will remind you where want to end up. A good trick is to set up a monthly or bimonthly reminder to review and revisit your career plan.

Research — There are many clichés to explain this one; just think prepare+practice+people engagement=success, continued on page 46 Rookmin Maharaj is an experienced, journalist, corporate communications specialist and storyteller. She may be reached at rookmin@me.com.

To clean or not to clean?

There’s no question.

Just one answer.

Allie Smith, The Latchkey Mom, has written for numerous publications, both online and print.

She has been featured in The Huffpost Parents, Huffpost Travel, and My Forsyth magazine.

www.TheLatcheyMom.com 34 www.myforsyth.com

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5

Mistakes to Avoid when Applying for Healthcare

Many folks have already signed up for an Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plan either through an employer group or an individual plan. If you haven’t yet, you’re not alone.

There are many complex components involved with the ACA that some individuals will need to consider. Special enrollment periods, premium tax credits, calculating Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) to determine an individual’s eligibility for a subsidy, co-insurance and co-pays and a host of other variables could drastically affect how one purchases health insurance going forward.

After working for many small businesses and individuals seeking the right health insurance plan to meet their needs, I’ve noticed some mistakes that are made across the board. When choosing a healthcare plan, avoiding the following mistakes could save you time and money.

1 2 3 4 5

Not confirming if your doctor is in-network on your new plan. For those who seldom visit the doctor this may not a big deal but for those who have chosen a particular doctor for treatment, it matters a great deal. As possible, stay innetwork as going outside the network can be extremely costly.

Picking the lowest cost plan to save money. While we now have 100% coverage on preventive services. The cost of emergencies and unexpected issues are not. What if you have a pain in your side and you’re afraid to go to the doctor now because you have a $6,300 deductible that you have to meet before anything is covered including prescription drugs? Choosing the right health care plan may take time and research but at the end it will prove to be to your advantage.

Underestimating you annual income. If you do not have employer group coverage and have found yourself to be eligible for a subsidy, it is critical that you report the most accurate estimated income for the following year. Your estimated income must include all sources of income, including a second job and alimony. If your calculations are off by a substantial amount you could find yourself owing the IRS a great deal of money for premium tax credits that you otherwise would not have received. The reverse is also true – if you are eligible for higher credits and overestimate your annual income you could miss out on substantial assistance you could have otherwise been granted.

Waiting until the last minute. You may have received, or may be receiving soon, a letter notifying you that your old traditional plan is coming to an end in December and you have to choose a new ACA plan for the year 2015. If you currently have an ACA plan or are on what they call a Short Term Medical plan – this may not apply to you. Open Enrollment begins November 15, 2014 and lasts until February 15, 2015. Don’t wait until the last minute to get your ACA coverage in place.

Deciding not to get insurance. For individuals who prefer to roll the dice and not get coverage there’s a penalty to pay that could be up to 2% of their annual income; the penalty will be assessed when taxes are filled. For those in a lower income bracket, the penalty could be as low as $325 per adult and $162.50 per child or $975 per family, assessed April 15th, 2016.

If you think you are eligible for a subsidy you can call the Marketplace at 1-800-318-2596. If you are unsure of what plan works best for you, call a Marketplace certified agent/broker. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your healthcare coverage depends on it! Choosing a Marketplace certified agent/broker or Navigator can help advice and lead you in the right direction when selecting the plan that best works for you.

Peter Clavijo is a managing partner with Employee Benefits of Atlanta. He may be reached at 770-757-1282 or Peter@benefitsofatlanta.com. For more information visit www.BenefitsofAtlanta.com. www.myforsyth.com 35

s e i r o Mem of

n o r a h S ouse h l o o Sch ner

lee Ka

ie

by Kat

T

oday, most Forsyth County schools’ classrooms are equipped with a smart board and many students have a smartphone in their hand.

In the late 1930’s schooling was little different.

Forsyth County’s first school, Sharon Schoolhouse, was the center of learning for children in Forsyth. Upon completion of the 9th grade or less most of Sharon Schoolhouse’s students returned home to work on the family farm. Some children completed the 9th grade, the highest level offered at the Sharon Schoolhouse.

They then transferred to the Cumming School where they would go on to finish the 11th grade. Some of Forsyth County’s most recognized names attended Sharon, including members of the Bagley, Nickels, Densmore, and Buice families, to name a few. Multiple grade levels were taught in one classroom, where up to 30 children would listen to their teacher, who was likely no older than 17 years old. Students not only attended Sharon, but were required to assist with the upkeep of the school. Each day the students would take the trash out and burn it. During the winter months the school was heated by coal heaters but often there was no coal to burn, so the boys would take turns going into the woods to find timber to burn.

36 www.myforsyth.com

Students at Sharon filled their days at school playing on the school basketball team, putting on plays in the “state of the art” auditorium, as well as with some goodhearted pranks. I had the opportunity to interview former students who attended Sharon. They fondly recalled the times they spent getting one another into trouble. During recess the students would often go out back behind the schoolhouse to play spin the bottle or smoke “rabbit tobacco.” Rabbit tobacco was a plant they had found near the school and they rolled into a paper bag to smoke.

“We really didn’t know what it was,” laughed Ronald Buice. “For all we know it was just some wildflower growing there, but we smoked it anyway. Even some of the teachers smoked it.”

Ronald Buice got more than an education at Sharon.

Sharon Schoolhouse is where Ronald met the love of his life, Debra Buice. Their first date was at the annual Halloween Festival. That night Ronald carried Debra home because some of his friends had TP (toilet papered) his car. They have been together ever since. Ronald has carried around a hand written note from Debra in

S

tudents at Sharon filled their days at school playing on the school basketball team, putting on plays in the “state of the art” auditorium, as well as with some goodhearted pranks.

G

wenn Bagley recalled the apples the government would deliver to the school and give out to the students for free. “Man, were we thrilled to get those apples. Give a kid an apple today and they’ll wonder why you’re just giving them an apple.”

his wallet for more than 60 years. Each Sharon student I talked to had a specific memory about the school which they remember clearly to this very day.

Gwenn Bagley recalled the apples the government would deliver to the school and give out to the students for free. “Man, were we thrilled to get those apples.

One memory everyone plainly remembered was when Sharon got its first school bus.

“Before the school bus kids walked to school.

Some walked three to four miles to school, back home, back to school for basketball practice,

and then back home again and didn’t think anything of it,” Ronald Buice recalled.

Linda Lang was in first grade at Brandywine School when it burned in 1953. With no other school nearby, she and her four older siblings were bused to Sharon School. Because it was a long distance in those days between her home community of Midway and Sharon, she and her siblings were forced to get on the school bus before daylight and get home just before dark.

As if the long bus ride wasn’t bad enough, the school bus was not the classic yellow bus. “It was a very ugly orange bus! Back in those days, bus drivers had to provide their own school bus.

Obviously someone found a great bargain in this orange bus! Students who had to ride this bus were ridiculed by other kids,” Lang said. “My mother was not happy that we were on the bus continued on page 46

Katielee Kaner, a graduate of South Forsyth High School, may be reached at katieleekaner@hotmail. com.

www.myforsyth.com 37

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38 www.myforsyth.com

S C H OO L S Elementary Schools Big Creek Elementary 1994 Peachtree Parkway, 770.887.4584 Principal: Sherri Black sblack@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brookwood Elementary 2980 Vaughan Drive, 678.965.5060 Principal: Kathie Braswell kbraswell@forsyth.k12,ga.us

Chattahoochee Elementary 2800 Holtzclaw Road, 770.781.2240 Principal: Barbara Vella bvella@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Chestatee Elementary 6945 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville, 770.887.2341 Principal: Polly Tennies ptennies@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Coal Mountain Elementary 3455 Coal Mountain Drive, 770.887.7705 Principal: Debbie Smith dsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Cumming Elementary 540 Dahlonega Street, 770.887.7749 Principal: Pam Pajerski ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Daves Creek Elementary 3740 Melody Mizer Lane, 770.888.1223 Principal: Eric Ashton eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Haw Creek Elementary 2555 Echols Road, 678.965.5070 Principal: Dr. Amy Coker arcoker@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Johns Creek Elementary 6205 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee, 678.965.5041 Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Midway Elementary

Otwell Middle

iAchieve Virtual Academy

4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta, 770.475.6670 Principal: Todd Smith tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

605 Tribble Gap Road 770.887.5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us

678.965.4970

Sawnee Elementary

Piney Grove Middle

1616 Canton Highway, 770.887.6161 Principal: Dr. Eileen Nix ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us

8135 Majors Road, 678.965.5010 Principal: Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Settles Bridge Elementary

Riverwatch Middle

600 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, 770.887.1883 Principal: LeeAnne Rice lrice@forsyth.k12.ga.us

610 James Burgess Road, Suwanee 678.455.7311 Principal: Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sharon Elementary

South Forsyth Middle

3595 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee, 770.888.7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

2865 Old Atlanta Road 770.888.3170 Principal: Sandy Tinsley stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Shiloh Point Elementary

Vickery Creek Middle

8145 Majors Road, 678.341.6481 Principal: Rebecca Johnson rjohnson@forsyth.k12.ga.us

6240 Post Road, 770.667.2580 Principal: Kathy Rohacek krohacek@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sliver City Elementary

High Schools

Ivy League Montessori School

Forsyth Central High

1791 Kelly Mill Road, 770.781.5586 School Director: Becky Carty www.ilmsnet.com

6200 Dahlonega Highway, 678.965.5020 Principal: Paige Andrews pandrews@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Vickery Creek Elementary 6280 Post Road, 770.346.0040 Principal: Kristan Riedinger kriedinger@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Whitlow Elementary 3655 Castleberry Road, 678.965.5090 Principal: Dr. Lynne Castleberry lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Middle Schools Lakeside Middle 2565 Echols Road, 678.965.5080 Principal: Debbie Sarver dsarver@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Liberty Middle Kelly Mill Elementary 1180 Chamblee Gap Road 678.965.4953 Principal: Mr. Ron McAllister rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us

7465 Wallace Tatum Road 770.781.4889 Principal: Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Little Mill Middle Mashburn Elementary 3777 Samples Road, 770.889.1630 Principal: Tracey Smith tbsmith@forysth.k12.ga.us

Matt Elementary 7455 Wallace Tatum Road, 678.455.4500 Principal: Charley Stalder cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us

6800 Little Mill Road, 678.965.5000 Principal: Connie McCrary cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth Middle 3645 Coal Mountain Drive 770.889.0743 Principal: Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us

520 Tribble Gap Road 770.887.8151 Principal: Mitch Young myoung@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lambert High School 805 Nichols Road 678.965.5050 Principal: Dr. Gary Davison gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth High 3635 Coal Mountain Drive 770.781.6637 Principal: Beth Hebert bhebert@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth High 585 Peachtree Parkway, 770.781.2264 Principal: Jeff Cheney jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us

West Forsyth High 4155 Drew Road 770.888.3470 Acting Principal: Heather Gordy hgordy@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Private Schools Covenant Christian Academy 6905 Post Road, 770.674.2990 Headmaster: Johnathan Arnold www.covenantrams.com

Fideles Christian School 1390 Weber Industrial Drive 770.888.6705 Directors: Jonny and Ellen Whisenant www.fideles.net

Friendship Christian School 3160 Old Atlanta Road, 678.845.0418 Vice-Principal: Butch Quinn www.friendshipchristianschool.us

Horizon Christian Academy (K-6) 2160 Freedom Parkway (7-12) 433 Canton Road 678.947.3583, 678.947.0711 Headmaster: Heather Marshall www.horizonchristian.org

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 2830 Old Atlanta Road, 770.205.6277 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessoriacademygeorgia.com

Montessori at Vickery 6285 Post Road, 770.777.9131 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessorivickery.com

Montessori Kids Academy 3034 Old Atlanta Road, 678.208.0774 School Admin., Maureen Danbury www.montessoricumming.com

Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway, 770.888.4477 Head of School: Fr. Robert Presutti www.pinecrestacademy.com

School Information www.forsyth.K12.GA.US

Forsyth Academy Forsyth Academy at Night 770.781.3141

Gateway Academy 770.781.2299

www.myforsyth.com 39

Building Your Kids

by Maria I. Morgan

PURPOSE I

guess you could say I’ve loved reading since I was young. My Mom was instrumental in introducing my brother and me to quality books like “Green Eggs & Ham,” and “Aesop’s Fables.”

Reading painted colorful pictures in my mind whisked me off to magical places where animals could talk and happy endings were guaranteed. As I got older, I knew I wanted to contribute to the art of writing.

As a twenty-something, I earned a degree in Corporate Wellness and got a job in the health field. I found myself with lots of opportunities to write articles for our company’s newsletter.

Years later, as a wife and mother, I had more time to devote to my love for crafting stories.

I sensed God’s direction as He opened some doors and closed others. An inspirational/devotional blog was born that morphed into a website. I gradually expanded my audience to include children.

With the launching of my first children’s book, “Louie’s BIG Day!” I hope to give parents one more tool to use as they train their kids to love and serve the Lord:

“And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” Deuteronomy 6:7 Maria I. Morgan was born with an active imagination.

Originally an inspirational author and speaker for adults, Maria has widened her circle to include kids. She lives in the muggy South with her husband, two retrievers, and two Maine coon kitties – the perfect mix to fuel her creativity for years to come!

Find her devotionals and download a free copy of her eBook “God Speaking” at www.mariaimorgan.com | Purchase “Louie’s BIG day!”:http://www.amazon.com/Louies-Big-DayMaria-Morgan-ebook/dp/B00MC338YS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8& qid=1410294124&sr=8-1&keywords=louie%27s+big+day)

40 www.myforsyth.com

It’s so important to take advantage of every opportunity to teach our children biblical truths. I’ve designed the Louie-theLawnmower series to do just that: teach concepts from the Bible in a kid-friendly way. The Lord has a purpose and plan for each person He has created. Use every tool at your disposal to point your children to Him and build them for His glory. He’ll be faithful to reveal the plan He has for them.n

Prayer

Heavenly Father, Thank You for creating me with a purpose. When I follow You one step at a time, You are faithful to show me what I should do next. Help me take advantage of the tools You provide to build my kids for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Since it wasn’t an emergency, he was told no.

Because of how hard it was to communicate with him, the staff decided to move him to a private room and one of us could stay with him, even at night.

M

om and I took turns and one of us was there with him all the time. That’s when we noticed some really disturbing things about one of the best facilities in Georgia. During the daytime, when family members are present, you see the staff in constant motion, caring for the residents with patience and a smile. The lunch meal was usually pretty good, but breakfast and dinner was horrible. We asked after every meal that Dad be brought the cardiac/ diabetic diet. Every meal brought to him was nothing but sugar, starch and fat.

Mom and I began bringing his meals as well.

WHERE IS THE OUTRAGE? W

by Neida Streit

e are outraged at events of genocide, oppression and war crimes. We are outraged that animals are born, raised and slaughtered for our food in unsanitary conditions. We are outraged at mistreatment of children, abuse of pets and persecution of people for their religious beliefs. Why, then, are we not outraged about the treatment our senior loved ones receive in their “golden” years?

M

y father was recently hospitalized with some life-threatening issues.

During his 17 day stay at the hospital, we couldn’t have asked for better care. During his stay there, we had to explore our options for care after the hospital. We researched home care, hospice care and rehab care. Thankfully, we have not experienced the hospice care just yet, but we have experienced rehab and home care.

A

fter careful research and lots of recommendations, we chose the rehab facility where dad would get the therapy he needed to learn to walk again.

It was acclaimed as one of the best in Georgia. The program was excellent, facilities were clean and well-kept, and staff/ patient ratio was the best we could find. So, why am I outraged?

D

ad is hard of hearing.

During his first night there, he was having trouble communicating with the staff and asked them to call mom or me so we could help him.

M

edication that was prescribed by a doctor takes a minimum of 2 days before getting to a patient. Medications that are expensive are generally changed to something else cheaper – in dad’s case, a pain patch was changed to an icy hot patch – not the same thing at all! At night, calls for help go unanswered for 1-2 hours. In fact, there were four nights that we couldn’t find a single employee for three hours or more! During those three hours, multiple call lights were on in all three halls.

I

am not saying that every nurse, aide, or employee could be considered negligent. There were several that were wonderful and keep in touch with mom and dad even now. Thankfully, dad was only in rehab for 10 days. He was then released to home care, where he continued to improve and is looking forward to his 80th birthday in a few weeks.

T

he Bible tells us to honor our father and mother, to take care of each other. If you have a loved one in a facility and you don’t think they are getting proper care, please contact Georgia’s Ombudsman advocate at www.georgiaombudsman.org to file a complaint. You can also see what complaints are filed against a facility before you place your family member there.n

Neida Streit is a life-long resident of Cumming GA. Neida served in the. United States Army as a communications specialist. She may be reached at neida.streit1@gmail. com.

www.myforsyth.com 41

Houses of NON-DENOMINATIONAL Eastgate Church 2820 Brookwood Road, Cumming 770.888.8852 Sunday Morning Worship Times: 9:00 & 11:00 am Wednesday Night services 7:00 pm Pastors: David & Robin Houtsma www.eastgatechurch.org

BAPTIST Antioch Baptist Church 2465 Antioch Road 770.887.6900 Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Sunday Service: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

AWANA: Sunday at 6 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m.

Pastor: Travis Bridgeman www.welcometoantioch.org

Cumming Baptist Church 115 Church Street, 770.205.6699 Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship service: 10:50 a.m.

Pastor: Dr. Barry Crocker www.cummingbaptist.net

First Baptist Cumming 1597 Sawnee Drive, 770.887.2428 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m.

Contemporary Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups 11 a.m.

Traditional Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups Wednesday: 6:15 p.m. AWANA Pastor: Dr. Bob Jolly www.firstbaptistcumming.org

First Redeemer Church 2100 Peachtree Parkway, 678.513.9400 Sunday Services: 9:15AM – Contemporary Service (Auditorium) 10:45AM – Blended Service (Auditorium) 9:00AM & 10:45AM; 6:30PM Bible Fellowship Jeff Jackson, Senior Pastor www.firstredeemer.org

Greater Heights Baptist Church 3790 Post Road, 770.887.4802 Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship: 11 a.m.

42 www.myforsyth.com

Wo r s h i p

Sunday Evening: 5 p.m.

Wednesday Evening & AWANA: 7 p.m.

Pastor: Chris Grinstead www.ghbcc.org

Longstreet Baptist Church 6868 Campground Road, 770.889.1959 www.longstreetchurch.com Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Worship Service: 11 a.m.

Wednesday night adult and youth activities

North Lanier Baptist Church 829 Atlanta Highway, 770.781.5433 Church service times: 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Bible Studies 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) Hispanic Service is at 10:30 a.m. in our Activities Center

Refuge Baptist Church 3525 Pilgrim Mill Road, 678.807.7746 Sunday Bible Study: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m.

Wednesday Prayer Service: 7 p.m. www.refugebaptistchurch.org

EPISCOPAL St. Columba’s Church 939 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, 770.888.4464 Wednesday Services: 6:30 p.m.

Saturdays Service: 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Service: 7:45, 9 & 11:15 a.m.

Rector: Father Tripp Norris Curate: Father Daron Vroon www.saintcolumba.net

The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit 724 Pilgrim Mill Road, 770.887.8190 Services: Thursdays 12 noon, Sundays 8:30 and 10:45 a.m.

Rector: Keith Oglesby www.ecohs.net

GREEK ORTHODOX Saints Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Greek Orthodox Church 3074 Bethelview Rd., 770.781.5250 Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 10 AM Pastor: Fr. Barnabas Powell www.stsrni.org

LUTHERAN Living Faith Lutheran Church, LCMS 1171 Atlanta Highway, 770.887.0184 Sunday School: 9:00am, all ages Sunday Worship: 10:15am, 12:30pm (Korean) Wednesday Evening Fellowship Meal 6:00pm Bible Study for all ages 7:00pm Pastor Tim Droegemueller livingfaithoffice@bellsouth.net www.livingfaithlutheran.com facebook/livingfaithlutheranchurch

Christ The King Lutheran Church (Evangelical Lutheran Church In America) 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Rd. Cumming, Ga. 30040 770.889.5328 ctklutheran.com Sunday Worship Service 8 & 11 AM – Traditional 9 AM – Blended 10 AM – Discipleship Hour (Sun. School)

OTHER Baha’is of Forsyth County 1-800-22-UNITE www.forsythbahais.org Crossroads Church of the Nazarene 6160 Southard Trace Cumming, GA 30040 678.977.0328 www.mycrossroadschurch.net

Castle Christian Church 3149 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee 678.648.5248 www.castlechristianchurch.com Sunday Worship: 10 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m.

Senior Minister: Jason Rodenbeck jason@castlechristian.com

Family By Faith Worship Center 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (Midway Elementary School), 678.230.4800 Small Groups: 9:30 a.m.

Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Nursery available Pastor: Randy Grimes www.familybyfaith.com

First Christian Church 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming, 770.887.5542 Pastor Stan Percival www.fccga.org

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 510 Brannon Road, Cumming, GA 678.455.5290 – Hall Phone Worship Service: 9 am, 11:30 am, and 2 pm Visitors Welcome Nursery available

LifePoint Christian Church 3140 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 Sunday Small Groups: 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Childcare available Pastor: Chris Stovall www.lifepoint.org

NewSong Community Church 433 Canton Road, Suite 306, Located across from Ingles, behind the National Guard in Building 300, 770.888.5212 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Case Koolhaas www.newsongweb.org

Rameshori Buddhist Center 130 Allen Road, Unit B Sandy Springs, 30328, 404.255.1585

PRESBYTERIAN Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church 7620 Lanier Drive, 770.887.6801 Sunday School all ages: 9:45 am Sunday Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m.

Childcare available Pastor: John S. Martin www.deercreekshores.org email: dcspres@comcast.net

Chalcedon Presbyterian Church 302 Pilgrim Mill Road, 770.205.9390 www.chalcedon.org | www.rpcus.com Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Pastor, Dr. Joseph C. Morecraft, III.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

Tthe COUNTRY PREACHER

by Rev. David Hill

T

he political signs will be gone soon and for the next two years the prosperity, stability and the future of our county, state and nation will depend on those we’ve elected. Dad was experiencing one of his many health crises when he asked the doctor to help him live one more year.

The doctor replied he’d do better than that but why just one year? Dad said “I want to vote!” Now six years later he has voted for the last time.

The Bible provides only limited information about God’s choice of a secular government. Jesus preached good citizenship. Answering a question concerning the Jewish obligation to pay Roman tribute or taxes Jesus said “Render therefore unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21) In the Sermon on the Mount He preached our attitude should be to go the extra mile. Matthew 5:41 Governmental authority demands respect but government is sometimes neither fair nor just.

Daniel was thrown in a den of lions for praying. John the Baptist was beheaded for preaching against the ruler’s immoral behavior.

There are two modern forms of government about which the Scriptures warn. In Acts 4:32-5:11 the early church in a gesture of selflessness sold possessions “. . . had all things in common”, gave to “. . . them that lacked” and “. . . distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” Sometimes this is referred to as Christian communism. The outcome was lying, hypocrisy and greed because it forsook God’s principle of sowing and reaping. “The labourer is worthy of his reward”.

I Timothy 5:1 In Proverbs 23:1-3, 6-8 Solomon warns sons against receiving the ruler’s free meal. “When thou sittest to eat with a ruler (when the government feeds you) consider diligently (count the cost) . . . put

DEMOCRACY? a knife to thy throat (it is better to cut your throat) . . . they are deceitful meat (gifts have unseen strings attached) . . . the bread of him that hath an evil eye (selfish views) . . . his heart is not with thee . . . The morsel which thou has eaten thou shalt vomit up “ (what you have done will make you want to throw up). The parenthesis is mine but it is consistent with lessons in other Proverbs. Socialism has never worked anywhere. If Time (2/16/09) and Newsweek (2/6/09) are right by stating “We are all socialists now” America has seriously violated God’s Word.

God’s view of perfect government was His Old Testament leadership of Israel that directed them with a cloud by day and a fire by night. His law was a standard of righteousness, the Ten Commandments.

When Israel decided to exchange God’s leadership for an earthly king like other nations, He warned them their king would take their sons as soldiers, require their daughters to provide a portion of their labor for service and revenue and part of their crops, vineyards and livestock will be taken. “. . . ye shall be his servants” (I Samuel 8:7-22).

Why can’t we vote for someone who promises us nothing? No more bribes to buy votes with money picked from our neighbor’s pocket. Just give us opportunity and a fair chance to work hard and receive our just reward. Doctor, I want my pacemaker replacement to give me two more years so I can vote.n

Rev. David Hill is a Cumming Resident and frequent guest preacher at Antioch Baptist Church. *Biblical quotes are from the King James Version of the Bible.

www.myforsyth.com 43

Houses of Worship (cont.)

Clubs & Organizations HOUSES OF WORSHIP – CONTINUED

Parkway Presbyterian Church 5830 Bethelview Road, 678.889.8694 Traditional Worship: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Contemporary Worship: Sundays11:00 a.m. Brazilian Ministry Sunday Services: 7:00 p.m.

(The service is in Portuguese.)

Rev. Bill Ford, Senior Pastor Rev. Cido Araujo, Assoc. Pastor of Brazilian Ministries

Parkway Church 5830 Bethelview Road, 770.889.8694 (½ mile west of GA 400 exit 13) Sunday Traditional Service: 9 a.m.

Sunday Contemporary Service: 11 a.m.

Childcare available for both services Senior Pastor: Bill Ford parkway-church.org email: info@parkway-church.org

The Vine Community Church 4655 Bethelview Road, 678.990.9395 Sunday Services: 9 & 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday: Middle and High School youth meet at 7:15 – 8:30 p.m.

Pastor: Jon Adams thevinecommunitychurch.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC Church of Good Shepherd 3740 Holtzclaw Road 770.887.9861 Mass: Saturday Vigil, 5 p.m.; Sundays,7:30, 9 & 10:30 a.m. and 12 noon; 5:30p.m.

Spanish Mass, 1:30 p.m.

Weekdays: 9 a.m Pastor: Father Frank goodshepherdcumming.com

St. Brendan Catholic Church 4633 Shiloh Road, 770.205.7969 Mass: Saturday Vigil: 5 p.m.

Sunday: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m. & 5 p.m.

Spanish Mass: 1 p.m.

Weekdays: 8:30 a.m.

Pastor: Fr. Matthew Van Smoorenburg, LC Parochial Vicars: Fr. Joseph Ramos, LC and Fr. Juan Guerra, LC stbrendansatl.com

44 www.myforsyth.com

UNITED METHODIST Bethelview United Methodist Church 4525 Bethelview Road, 770.887.4888 Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. bethelview.net (child care available) Pastor: Rev. Deborah Griffith

Piedmont United Methodist Church

The Inspiration Network of Cumming

1170 Dahlonega Highway, 770.887.0770 Sunday Services Bible Study 10 a.m.

Traditional Service 11 a.m.

Bible Study 5 p.m.

PiedmontUMC@bellsouth.net

Meeting: Third Wed. from

7 – 8:30 p.m.

Location: The Nurturing Nook,

205 Pilgrim Mill Road Contact: Leanne Temple, 678.965.5969

Member Power Networking Lunch

Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Highway, 770.887.2900 Sunday Services: 8:45 and 11 a.m. – traditional worship services 9:51 a.m. – contemporary worship services 1:30 p.m. – Hispanic/Latino worship service en Español 9 a.m. – lake service (May-August) Senior Minister Dr. Jeff Ross

Lanier United Methodist Church 1979 Buford Highway, 770.887.0615 Sunday Traditional Service: 8:45 a.m.

Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Sunday Contemporary Praise Service: 11 a.m.

Nursery available for both services Pastor: Ted Miller lanierumc.org

Midway United Methodist Church 5025 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta 770.475.5230 Sunday Traditional Worship: 8:30 a.m.

Sunday Children’s Church: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School all ages: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Contemporary Worship: 10:45 a.m. midwayumc.org

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS BUSINESS NETWORKING Central Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tues.

11 a.m. — 1 p.m.

Location: The Columns at Pilgrim

Mill Apartments Contact: Nancy Wright,

770.886.0500 or nancyw@ecigroups.com Information: No fees. Open to all

Forsyth County Women’s Club Meeting: Third Thurs. of each mo.

at 11:00 a.m. – $22 lunch Location: Windermere Golf Club Contact: Johanna Morgan 678.525.9309 jlmorgan1960@gmail.com Information:Membership is open to

all women of Forsyth and

surrounding counties

Program includes group

activities, information

and more.

Website:forsythcountywomensclub.net

Forsyth Network for Business Professionals Meeting: Thurs.11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Location: Bello Italian Restaurant

101 Meadow Drive Contact: Tiffany Allen at tiffany@servpro8378.com

or 770.887.1962 Information: $50 membership fee and

$10 monthly.

Visit twice for free.

No occupation

overlap. Call first.

Meeting: Every Tues. at 12 Noon Location: Various chamber

member restaurants Contact: 770.887.6461 or cummingforsythchamber.org Information: $15 for members

and $30 for non-members

South Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wed. at

11:30 a.m. No fees Location: Starbucks-141 and

Ronald Reagan

– John’s Creek,

435 Peachtree Parkway

Cumming, GA 30041 Contact: Robin Grier 770.887.2772 rgrier@harborfs.com

Women Who Mean Business Meeting: First Tues. Registration

begins at 7:30 a.m.

Location: Cumming-Forsyth County

Chamber of Commerce

Event’s Facility

513 W. Maple Street Contact: 770.887.6461 Information: Free for members;

$30 for non-members

Register online at cummingforsythchamber.org.

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Health Center (CHC) Serving the medical needs of North Georgia since 1979.

Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. Contact: 770.886.5419 Website: savethehorses.org

Clubs & Organizations Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter

RECREATION & HOBBIES Cumming Garden Club

Location: 4440 Keith Bridge Road Contact: 770.887.6480 Information: Non-profit, no-kill

shelter for cats

and dogs.

Website: forsythpets.org

Contact: 770.844.7061 Meeting: Held second Tues. of

each month from Sept.

until May at 10:00 AM Information: Non-profit organization

with the purposes of

educating members &

the community

in gardening,

conservation &

creative expression.

There’s Hope for the Hungry Contact: 678.513.9400 Information: Non-profit organization

partnering with

churches across

North Georgia

to feed those in need.

Website: thereshope.org

Whispering Hope Resource & Pregnancy Center Location: 133 Samaritan Drive,

Suite 306 Information: Non-profit organization

dedicated to informing,

educating, and providing

an outstretched hand

to women who face an

untimely pregnancy Contact: 770.889.8302, whisperinghope4u@bellsouth.net Website: WhisperingHope.org

CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS Ducktown Chapter #460 – Order of the Eastern Star Meeting:

Location: Contact:

2nd & 4th Fri at 7:30 p.m.

4655 Canton Hwy 770.887.8147

Rotary Club of South Forsyth Meeting: Wed. at 12:15 p.m.

Location: 6300 Polo Club Drive Website: southforsythrotaryclub.org

Location: Land of a Thousand

Hills Coffee House 5095

Post Road, Cumming Contact: Ann Linke at parkway-chruch.org holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com Website: holisticmoms.org

Labrador Friends of the South, Inc. Location: Contact: Website:

PO Box 933, Cumming labfriendinfo@gmail.com labradorfriends.com

Cuong Nhu Martial Arts Club

Moms Club of Cumming – North

Contact: 404.423.3524 Meeting: Every other Wed. at 7 p.m.

Location: Central Park Website: meetup.com/North-Atlanta-CuongNhu-Martial-Arts-Club/ Information: No fees, open to 16 yrs +

Monthly meetings with informational speakers, park play days, holiday parties, fieldtrips, playgroups and a monthly MOMS Night Out. Contact: momscummingnorth@yahoo.com Website: momsclub.org

Piecemakers Quilt Guild

Moms Club of Cumming – Southwest

Meeting: 2nd Tues. of each

month; 4th Tuesday is “sewcialbee”

(community quilts,

classes or just getting together) Location: Christ the King

Lutheran Church

1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap

Road, Cumming Website: piecemakersga.netw

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Cumming Meeting: Meets four times daily Location: Ingles Shopping Center

at 432 Canton Highway

(Hwy 20) Second suite

on far left.

24/7 Line: 770.886.0696 Information: Group of Alcoholics

Anonymous located in

Forsyth County Website: aacummingga.org

Holistic Moms Network – Forsyth County Monthly meetings with informational speakers, yoga group, play groups Meeting: 2nd Tues. of each

month at 6:30 p.m.

Single Mom Meeting Connect with other single moms, learn about paths to higher education and get links to community resources.

Light dinner provided and free on-site childcare/ homework help provided.

Meeting: 2nd Thurs.every month

at 6:30pm Location: 210 Dahlonega St.,

Suite 203, Cumming Contact: Valerie Daniel Faith’s

House, Inc. 770.205.6311 Website: faithshouseinc.org

SMART Recovery Meeting: Location:

Website:

Every Tues. at 6:30 p.m.

Professional Recovery Counseling, LLC. 107 W. Court house Sq., Suite 274 smartrecovery.org

Meeting: Last Tues. of each month Contact: momsclub.org

NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin Meeting: Second and

fourth Thurs. of each

month 7PM-8:30PM

(excluding major

holidays). Two support

meetings (for consumers

and family members)

held the second Thursday

of each month

Educational meeting on

the fourth Thursday of

each month Location: Forsyth County Senior

Center, 595 Dahlonega

Highway, Cumming,

Ga. 30040 Information: Two support groups

(family & peer) meet

every Thurs. except the

last when there is

a speaker.

Contact: Flo Giltman lgiltma1@gmail.com Website: namifdlga.org

www.myforsyth.com 45

THE REALITY OF REGRETS cont. from page 23 coming, but not making the right choices to put you on the right path?

Today is the day to change your direction - regardless of who you are and how old you are. It may be financial and it may not be, but the only way to get to where you want to be is to set, or reset, your course today. Make your choices with more than today and more than just yourself in mind. Position yourself to reap the benefits of your choices and not to be dealing with regrets.

What can you do today to lessen and even eliminate those possible regrets in your life? n

LET’S MAKE OTHERS FEEL SIGNIFICANT cont. from page 15 Now don’t get me wrong, there are times when this is almost unavoidable. Like when a certain relative goes on and on about all their ailments never asking a single question about you. Those conversations are tough to stay engaged. But you know what I’m talking about; there are times when the person on the other end of the relationship really needs your undivided attention. Unless you’re a surgeon or have some life or death circumstances that you need to be aware of, shut off the ringer on your phone when you’re visiting with others or stop what you’re doing and focus… yes, I said focus on the other person. I said that twice more for me than for you.

Feeling insignificant is not a good feeling. I certainly don’t want to feel that way and definitely don’t want to be the cause of someone else feeling that way. So let’s be aware and take the time to make others feel significant. How nice is that?n

THE TOOLS OF THE TRADE cont. from page 34 like how a tailor takes measurements, looks at various materials and colors to make the best piece of clothing for his/her client, you too should take a look at the available opportunities, the materials available for you to use, and the tools that you need to complete your task. As needed, tweak your résumé to best meet the requirements of the job posting you are reviewing. Find

out the trending buzzwords for current résumé searches for the desired field. Research the company and include pertinent information about the institution and match it to your skill set in your cover letter.

It’s a good idea to review you job toolbox monthly. Make sure you are engaging all areas of networking, using technology and people. Review and edit you career plan frequently to reflect your changing goals and ideas. The last thing you want to do is get stuck.n

MEMORIES OF SHARON SCHOOLHOUSE cont. from page 37 so long, so after many pleadings on our behalf, we were allowed to transfer to attend school in Cumming. On a yellow bus, no less!

Old Sharon Schoolhouse closed In the 1960s due to lacJust like they did at school, the kids did more than just ride the bus. Often they had to push the bus up hills and would get mud on themselves before even making it to school.

“Anyone who caused any trouble got kicked off the bus,” said Ronald Nickels.

Old Sharon Schoolhouse closed In the 1960s due to lack of students, but you can still find The Old Sharon Schoolhouse standing today deep in the woods off Old Atlanta Road. Not only is the school still around, but so is the friendship that started at Sharon. The men I interviewed about the school have been lifelong friends and still meet at McDonald’s every Wednesday for breakfast.

If you want to hear more stories about going to school at Old Sharon, be sure to stop by the McDonald’s on Old Atlanta Road Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m., grab a biscuit, and take a seat. You are in for a treat!n

Spread the Word About Your Business...

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4 Issue 6, 201

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CONTACT US TODAY! 678.614.8583

Advertisers Notre Dame Academy – Inside Back Cover 678-387-9385 www.ndacademy.org

HOME MOVING/CONSTRUCTION/ REMODEL

Hercules House Movers – pg.5 770-235-7999 www.herculeshousemovers.com

Obstetrics & Gynecology of Atlanta – pg. 30 404-252-1137 www.obgynofatlanta.com

AUTO REPAIR/CAR CENTER

JEWELRY STORE

The Dinsmore Team – pg. 17 770-712-7789 www.dinsmoreteam.com

PET ADOPTION/RESCUE

Sawnee Mountain Preserve – pg. 5 770-781-2217

ACADEMY/PRIVATE SCHOOL

Scott’s Auto Center – Inside Front Cover 678-947-4040 www.scottsautocenter.net

Lance’s Jewelry –Back Cover 770-781-5500 www.lancesjewelry.com

BOOK PUBLISHERS

Humane Society of Forsyth County – pg. 29 770-889-1365 | 770-887-6480 www.forsythpets.org

BookLogix Publishing Services, Inc. – pg. 24 770-346-9979 www.booklogix.com Carpet Cleaning Solutions – pg. 34 678-807-8537 www.carpetcleaning-plus.com COMPUTER REPAIRS

Business Ready Computer Solutions – pg. 7 404-556-4841 BusinessReadySolutions@gmail.com DANCE ACADEMY/INSTRUCTION

Cumming Dance Academy – pg. 7 770-781-4922 www.CummingDanceAcademy.com DENTIST/DENTAL CARE

GREETING CARDS

Doing It Divine – pg.33 www.doingitdivine.com lhunter50@gmail.com

RECREATION

RESTAURANTS /FOOD SERVICES/ CATERING

Casa Nuova – pg. 23 770-475-9100 www.casanuovarestaurant.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

CARPET CLEANING

Jordan Dentistry – pg. 26 770-888-6262 www.JordanDentistry.com

REAL ESTATE

Adam Pendleton – pg. 15 678-208-7077 www.AdamPendleton.com

Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine – pg. 26 678-208-0341 www.freshnfit.com

Kim Bates Photography – pg. 33 770-617-7597 www.kimbatesphotoart.com

Lenny’s Sub Shop – pg. 47 678-947-0336 | Fax Orders: 678-947-5343

Liz Erikson – pg. 30 678-614-8231 www.LizErikson.com PHYSICIAN/MEDICAL SERVICES

Narendra Singh, MD – pg. 28 Atlanta Heart Specialists 678-679-6800 | 770-622-1622 www.heartdrsingh.com

North Atlanta Ear, Nose & Throat (NAENTA) – Inside Back Cover 770-292-3045 www.naenta.com

Norman’s Landing – pg. 21 770-886-0100 www.normanslanding.com SIP Wine Shop– pg. 21 678-513-0791 www.sipwineshop.com

Northside Hospital Forsyth – pg. 3 770-844-3200 www.northside.com

More Food. More Taste.

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FREE SUB SANDWICH

678-947-0336 Fax: (678) 947-5343

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One coupon per person.

Can not be combined with other offers.

Valid at Cumming GA location only. Exp 11/30/2014.

www.myforsyth.com 47

E LECTED APPO INTED O FFI CIA LS

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT President Barack H. Obama (D) 202.456.1414 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, fax: 202.456.2461 Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) 202.224.3521 Atlanta Office: 100 Galleria Parkway Suite 1340 GA: 770.763.9090 Atlanta, GA 30339 fax: 202.224.0103 Website: chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website

Senator Johnny Isakson (R) 202.224.3643 Atlanta Office: One Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: 770.661.0999 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: isakson.senate.gov

Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 202.225.5211 Georgia Office: Wachovia Center GA: 770.535.2592 500 Jesse Jewel Parkway, Suite 301, Gainesville, GA 30503 Website: tomgraves.house.gov

Rep. Rob Woodall. (R), District 7 770.963.2420 Email: woodall@mail.house.gov Website: woodall.house.gov

Rep. Mark Hamilton (R), District 23 770.844.6768 e-mail: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov

Rep. Mike Dudgeon (R), District 24 770.887.0400 e-mail: mike.dudgeon@house.ga.gov

Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 404.657.8534 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov

FORSYTH COUNTY GOVERNMENT Forsyth County Board of Commissioners 110 East Main Street, Suite 210, Cumming, GA 30040 770.781.2101 Website: forsythco.com fax: 770.781.2199

404.652.7003 Website: gov.state.ga.us fax: 404.652.7123

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle 404.656.5030 Website: gov.state.ga.us

Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27 770.887.1960 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax: 770.205.0602

Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 678.341.6203 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov fax: 770.844.5821

48 www.myforsyth.com

770.887.2461 1120 Dahlonega Highway Cumming Website: forsyth.k12.ga.us 1092 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Website: forsythco.com

BOARD OF EDUCATION Ann Crow, District 1 (R) 770.490.6316 e-mail: ACrow@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R) 770.781.5222 e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R)

County Manager

770.657.0810 e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Doug Derrer: 770.781.2101 fax : 770.781.2199

Darla Light, District 4

COMMISSIONERS R.J. (Pete) Amos, District 1 (R) 678.513.5881 e-mail: rjamos@forsythco.com

770.887.0678 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R) 770.889.0229 e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brian R. Tam, District 2 (R) 678.513.5882 e-mail: brtam@forsythco.com

Todd Levent, District 3 (R) STATE GOVERNMENT Governor Nathan Deal (R)

FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM Superintendent, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans

770.781.2101 e-mail: tlevent@forsythco.com

Cindy Mills, District 4 (R) 678.513.5884 e-mail: cjmills@forsythco.com

Jim Boff, District 5 (R) 678.513.5885 e-mail: jjboff@forsythco.com

Forsyth County Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter 770.781.2110

CITY OF CUMMING Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt Cumming City Hall 770.781.2010 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Cumming City Council Members: Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton

City Administrator Gerald Blackburn 770.781.2010

City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net

COMMUNITY NUMBER S

EMERGENCY — 911

Hampton Park Library

HOTLINES — 24 HOUR HELP LINES

770.781.9840 5345 Settingdown Road

Battered Women Hotline

Sharon Forks Branch

770.479.1703

Poison Control Center — Atlanta

770.781.9840 2810 Old Atlanta Road

404.616.9000

Outside Metro Atlanta 800.222.1222

Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) (404) 250-KIDS

Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center 770.428.2666

MEDICAL Georgia Highlands Medical Services 770.887.1668 260 Elm Street ghms-inc.org

PARKS AND RECREATION City of Cumming Main Number: 770.781.2030 410 Pilgrim Mill Road

Central Park Office 770.781.2215

Central Park Recreation Center 678.455.8540 2300 Keith Bridge Road

Neighborhood Healthcare Center 770.844.7494 2825 Keith Bridge Road 770.886.7135

Health Department 770.781.6906 428 Canton Highway

770.888.2788 6050 Y Street

POST OFFICE

770.886.2388 525 Tribble Gap Road

UTILITIES City of Cumming 770.781.2020

Water & Sewer Forsyth County Water & Sewer Department 770.781.2160 110 East Main Street forsythco.com

Solid Waste

770.781.3491 235 Castleberry Road

Advanced Disposal/Eagle Point Landfill 770.887.6063 8880 Old Federal Road, Ball Ground advanceddisposal.com

Windermere Park

Olde Atlanta Recycling LLC

Cumming Fairgrounds

(770) 781 – 2215 3355 Windermere Parkway

Northside Hospital — Forsyth 770.844.3200 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive northside.com

YMCA

GOLF CLUBS Chestatee Golf Club 706.216.7336 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville

Country Land Golf Course 770.887.0006 6560 Mayfield Drive

770.205.6912 2535 Ivy Street East

Waste Management, Inc. 770.751.1304 774 McFarland Road, Alpharetta wm.com

RECYCLING Keep Forsyth County Beautiful 770.205.4573

Polo Golf & Country Club FIRE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT City of Cumming Police Department 770.781.2000 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard cummingpd.net

770.887.7656 6300 Polo Club Drive

TELEPHONE AT&T

Windermere Golf Club

Residential 888.757.6500 Business 866.213.6300 att.com

678.513.1000 5000 Davis Love Drive

Forsyth County Fire Department 770.781.2180 3520 Settingdown Road forsythco.com

Georgia State Patrol 770.205.5400

LIBRARIES Forsyth County Public Library

FORSYTH COUNTY MARINAS Habersham Marina 770.887.5432 2200 Habersham Marina Road

Port Royale Marina

ELECTRICITY Georgia Power 888.660.5890

Sawnee Electric Membership 770.887.2363

770.887.5715 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville

770.781.9840 585 Dahlonega Road forsythpl.org

www.myforsyth.com 49

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Cumming GA 30041

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Watch Battery

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10% OFF Any Service

One coupon per customer Offer Expires 11/30/2014 Regular Price $50

New Customers Valid thru 11/30/2014

678-807-8537

Carpet Cleaning * Grout & Tile Cleaning * Upholstery Cleaning

50 www.myforsyth.com

Notre Dame Academy

A Marist Catholic and IB World School

Open House

Pre-K3 through 9th grade

Sunday, November 16th

1:00 - 3:00 PM 4635 River Green Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30096 | 678.387.9385 | www.ndacademy.org www.myforsyth.com 51

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