AUTO REPAIR
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[ Contents ]
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24 On the Cover: Scott Muse and Amy Johnson | Scott’s Auto Center
24 8-9
Expertise and Service with a Smile The Scott’s Auto Center Difference
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A Few of Our Favorite Things
HEALTH & WELLNESS 26 Achieving Success with Heart Failure 28 What is Functional Medicine? 30 Falling into Fall … and Winter! 30 Are You a Golfer? New Lenses with You in Mind 32 Colorectal Cancer
MY HOME 16 Home Listing and Buying during the Holidays 16 A New Place Called Home
COMMUNITY 11 Fall Efforts Fuel Year-round Help 12 Times are Changing 12 Putting the Time in Christmastime
LIFESTYLE 21 Embrace the Madness 21 Your Book’s Title 22 The Gift of Giving
MY BUSINESS 20 2013 Tax Laws that Affect You 20 Is Social Media Marketing?
Join the My Forsyth fan page www.facebook.com/myforsyth
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FAITH 38 Those Mysterious Souther n Women 38 Leaf Lessons 39 Lean Hard IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Forsyth County News 13 News Around Forsyth 14 Humane Society News 18 Forsyth Foodie
Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/myforsythmag
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Publisher Market Complete LLC julie@marketcomplete.com 678-614-8583
MARKET DIRECTOR
Lise Tomlinson lise@myforsyth.com | 770-480-3975
EDITOR
Jennifer Paire editor@myforsyth.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melissa Barton melissa@myforsyth.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Josh Murtha jrmurtha@hotmail.com | 678-508-9271
PHOTOGRAPHY
Kim Bates www.kimbatesphotoart.com Kaylene Fister www.southernkiwiphoto.com
TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATOR Michael Barton michael@myforsyth.com
PRINTING
EBA Media Solutions 770-500-2075 | www.treb-atl.com
The mission of My Forsyth magazine is to provide readers with a monthly publication with stories about their communities and its people. Our goal is to bring positive stories about Forsyth County. To businesses we provide a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, 21,500 copies of your community magazine are distributed via direct mail and throughout local businesses as part of our rack distribution. My Forsyth, a publication of Market Complete LLC, welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the Publisher/Editor. 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. ŠCopyright 2012. 4
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My Forsyth •www.myforsyth.com 5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 (p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511
Publisher’s Note
Love and care for each
other; And bring harm to no one. [ by Julie Brennan]
The words on the title were written by William R. Brennan, my father-in-law, on a note he left for his children to be read after his death. His devotion to his family and his nation were exemplary. So are the examples he leaves behind for us, his family, to learn from and emulate. His death left an empty place in our family’s hearts, and an abundance of stories to share and memories to last for a lifetime.
some of our unsung heroes.
The ability to love and care for each other can be seen daily, whether we are at work, church, community events, or among friends. Random acts of kindness are bountiful, albeit not often spoken about or known by many. And perhaps that may be the nature of kindness – quiet and looking for no recognition, for the acts are just as important to the recipient as they are to the giver.
These simple and gentle words said by a complete stranger where absolutely beautiful, and reminded me of the magnificence that surrounds us. While it may be hard to see it sometimes, it is there for us all to see.
Spending a few hours listening to the stories of folks such as the volunteers that are part of the Mentor Me program is a great example of loving and caring. The men and women who give of their time and talents to shed a bit of hope in the lives of the children that need an extra special someone to spend time with are
A recent visit to the Bibb County Courthouse reminded me that even in uncommon places, one can find kindness from a stranger. While looking for a particular office, a man asked me if I needed help. When I told him what I was looking for, he gave me directions and then said “I am pleased to make your acquaintance.”
During this most joyous time of the year, as we prepare to celebrate in the fashion that best suits our beliefs, there are many things we can give to others. There is the gift of love and friendship; of faith, patience or trust. We can pause to put our shoulder to someone else’s wheel, or to carry his burden for a while. It was Immanuel Kant’s idea that the only deeds with moral worth were those done from a sense of duty to fellow man. I humbly suggest that
Announcement
this could stand improvement. The duty is to one’s self, since being wholly human involves passing on something of value to others we deem worthy. One path to personal growth is to make giving a year-round habit, and not just a once-a-year obligation. And remember that what gives the gift life is that little something of yourself. On behalf of all of us at My Forsyth magazine, thank you for your support. We enjoy dropping by your homes (via mail), your visits to our Facebook page and our Web site, and look forward to our continued friendship in 2013.
Julie Brennan is the Publisher of My Forsyth magazine. She is a native of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Julie may be reached at julie@marketcomplete.com
We are pleased to welcome Lise Tomlinson, Market Director for My Forsyth! Contact Lise at 770-480-3975 for information about advertising opportunities in My Forsyth magazine. email: lise@myforsyth.com 6
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Gizmos, Gadgets, Baubles and Things… These are a few of our favorite things!
Savannah Bee Company Experience the extraordinary gifts of the amazing honeybee, one of the most ancient creatures still living today. Bees have created a symbiotic niche with their interactions with the world, and Savannah Bee Company offers award winning honey with a unique color, flavor and type of sweet specific to the nectar of the flower variety. Choose from Every Day Honey Cheese, Grill Honey, Tea Honey and other selections. Also available are natural organic bee-utiful products, including body butter, hand and nail salve, soap, and hand cream. www. savannahbee.com
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SEED Embroidery Simple Elegance. Exquisite Design. SEED can personalize everything! Purses, shower curtains, sheets, pants, jackets, key chains, towels, shirts, stockings and so many other items can be made extra special with a bit of embroidery. Pet items too! So let your imagination run free, and choose the embroidery style that is just right – for you or your loved one. www.seedembroidery.com
Dang Chicks Join the Dang Nation! Dang Chicks offers a wide range of “Dang” items, including apparel, boot candy, accessories, and home items. Dang Chicks apparel reminds us that life can still be fun, comfortable, and stylish without a lot of work getting ready for the day. More than apparel, it’s an Attitude! www.dangchicks.com
However you choose to celebrate this most joyous season of all, we hope you’ll take a look at some of our favorite things, and, if you are in the mood to shop, go local.
Add a Little Spice to Your Kitchen! In The Spices of My Life, author Tiffany Moen combines her love for cooking and her kids with recipes and stories from various cultures. www.TiffanyMoen.com
There’s a Buzz in Town
Funky Mountain Flowers and Gifts There’s always something fun and creative going on at Funky Mountain Flowers and Gifts. From Holy Soap Happiness, “I Am Her” and “The Next Best Thing” notebooks, to exquisite flowers, we always find something we can’t live without at Funky Mountain. As the Funky ladies often say, “Embrace your day with words of wisdom to remind yourself how utterly remarkable you are.” www.FunkyMountain.com.
Inspirational Mind Food Positive Thoughts and Actionable Ideas to Improve Your Mind and Life are featured in My Forsyth’s columnist Christine Roberts’s first book. Roberts shares the philosophy that a paradigm shift can occur in everyone’s life with both moderation and the power of positive thinking. The book is available online at www.Inspirationalmindfood.com and on Amazon.
Cool Bees Artwork and Gifts is a groovy shop located in Alpharetta, Georgia. We offer cool gifts and artwork made by over 70 local artisans. Custom picture framing is also available. Stop by the store and visit Queen Bee Terry Henner. www.coolbeesartwork.com
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Community
Forsyth County Government News 110 E. Main Street, Suite 210 • TV Forsyth — Comcast Channel 23 • www.forsythco.com Holiday Fire Prevention and Safety Tips from the Forsyth County Fire Department “The Forsyth County Fire Department encourages everyone to take precautionary measures to help ensure safety throughout the holiday season,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “Responsible use of items such as lights and decorations can help prevent fires and injuries.” • • • • • • • •
Caring for your tree: Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Disposing of your tree: Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. Consider disposing of your tree by taking it to a recycling center. Maintain your holiday lights: Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before using them. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. Do not overload electrical outlets: Never link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe to link additional ones. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into an outlet. Periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch. Do not leave holiday lights on unattended Use only nonflammable decorations: All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. Artificial holiday trees: If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, be sure it is flame-retardant. Never place wrapping paper in a fireplace: Wrapping paper can throw off dangerous sparks and produce a chemical buildup in the home capable of causing an explosion.
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“Always have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries,” Bowman said. “Be sure to practice your home escape plan and dial 911 in an emergency.” For additional holiday fire prevention and safety tips, visit the Fire Department page at www.forsythco.com.
Think Forsyth First Did you know purchases of taxable items in Forsyth County generate sales taxes that will stay here in the county? These taxes fund a number of things, including public safety, transportation and park improvements. Every dollar spent on taxable items in Forsyth County generates three cents of sales tax that stays in the county: • 1 cent funds the county’s Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) • 1 cent funds the county’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) • 1 cent goes to the county school system’s Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (E-SPLOST) Every purchase you make in Forsyth County is an investment in your county’s future.
Community
Fall Efforts Fuel
Year Round Help [ by Ruth Goode ]
United Way of Forsyth County begins the fall campaign each year with a kick-off event in September followed by five months of raising pledges that will fuel health and human service needs throughout the coming year. Those needs range in scope from the basics of food, shelter and clothing to supporting the student who needs mentoring or tutoring to the senior citizen who thrives with supports to help them age in place. Your gift can also save lives. Consider this: One evening, a school teacher attended a Friday evening football game. During the game she witnessed a man having a cardiac arrest. Since this staff person had training with an AED trainer, she recognized the signs and symptoms of cardiac arrest. She quickly located the AED and assisted with its use. Because of her training and quick actions, the man survived. Presently, high schools and middle schools in Forsyth County have AED trainers, but elementary schools do not. United Way will be providing the funds so each elementary school will be equipped with the AED training device. What is the investment to have 2,900-3,600 staff members trained each year? That would take only 45 of our citizens to pledge $1.00 a week for a year, a small price to pay to save a life. Will you be one of those 45? Your contribution helped a single mom who lost her job due to a company-wide downsizing. She received unemployment, however those funds did not cover her basic living expenses. Initially she went to The Place to get food. She was encouraged to apply for food stamps. She also needed help to prevent her utilities from being disconnected. She struggled through several months until she obtained employment once again. She received financial assistance one last time to help with her rent, preventing eviction. She was able to once again become selfsufficient with a hand-up and her diligence is searching for employment. She performed hours of volunteer service at The Place in order to give back for the assistance she received. That took 14 citizens giving $1.00 a week for a year to prevent this mother and two children from becoming homeless. Will you be one of those 14?
When we all work together, our community becomes a place to call home that we can all be proud of. Your contribution helps write many stories with successful outcomes for men, women and children everyday in Forsyth County. To further read how your donation impacts our community, please visit our website at www.unitedwayforsyth.com. And while you’re at it, please click on the “donate” button and be one of the community investors who help fuel hope throughout 2013. Thank you to all of you who consistently pledge your support!
Our Mission: To improve lives in our community by mobilizing the caring power and spirit of our citizens. United Way of Forsyth County P.O. Box 1350 | Cumming, GA 30028 770-781-4110
Ruth Goode is the Executive Director of United Way Forsyth. She may be reached at 770-781-4110. WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Community
Times Are Changing Putting the Time in [ by Kaylene Fister ] Atlanta doesn’t see much in the way of snow, so when it happens you take advantage of it. But you have to be quick because it doesn’t hang around for long. While most folks were hiding out in their homes after the most recent snowfall in Georgia, I got up early and drove around taking photos of the transformed landscape. There was very little traffic on the road which was a good thing.
Christmastime
I recently drove past one of the places I photographed that morning - the pretty little lake shown below:
I liked the monochromatic feel of the foreground, with the blue of the shadows in the background. The overhanging tree had prevented a small patch of lake from freezing over, leaving a nice reflection in the water. But when I drove past that same place last week, to my surprise it was gone! The little lake has been drained and a number of earthmovers have taken up temporary residence. I’m sure that whatever takes its place will be lovely, but it made me realise how quickly and easily things change. With that in mind, don’t pass up any opportunity to capture the world and lives around you with your camera. Places change, people grow and all you have left is memories and photographs. That is, if you remember to take them. What was it like when you were newly married, planting a garden, welcoming a new child or pet into your home? What does the home you are growing up in look like? It’s never too early to start and your children’s children will thank you for these precious images one day. My brother has been scanning old photographs into digital format so that he can share them with the family. Earlier this year we were looking through the dusty albums, remembering the times that went with the images and laughing at the goofy ones. Now I thank my Mum for making us all pose for yet another photograph and also the people who took photos of my grandparents and greatgrandparents, extended family and friends. The holiday season is upon us, with friends and family gathering and spending time together. Are you going to get out there and record some memories of people, places and fun times? Because you never know when things are going to change, like ‘my’ little lake.
Kaylene Fister is a professional photographer residing in Cumming, originally from New Zealand. Kaylene is the owner of Southern Kiwi Photography. She may be reached at 404.583.0659. 12 | MY FORSYTH
[ by Shelly Kent ] I am not among the ranks of most of the women I know when it comes to one thing: shopping. I absolutely, unequivocally despise it. Trotting around for a multitude of essentials is a nightmare all on its own, but holiday shopping? Straight out of a Stephen King novel—and maybe because I never feel like I get it right. That “perfect gift” reveals itself for only a few of the many who are on our family’s Christmas list. The rest of the time I wrack my brain trying to come up with something that shows I care…and I most often come up with physical gifts that do not seem to adequately express my sentiments. Having had major surgery a few years back, my recovery was long and arduous—it also extended straight through the holiday season. It was the first year I felt I had permission to let go of the shopping duties, and I think it is one of the best holidays we’ve had. Instead of buying dozens of tchotchke gifts that I would soon thereafter have to purge, dust around, or lament as clutter, I set up a series of family experiences—things we would ideally like enjoy during the year but never carve out enough time to do because the day-to-day minutia gets in the way. We attended a musical and a play, toured the caves in Kentucky, spent the day at a museum, and restaurant hopped at places we’d never been. This year we are following the same blueprint: we printed out the schedules for local theatres like the Cumming Playhouse, the Gainesville Theatre Alliance, and the Fox Theatre along with reviews of restaurants in the vicinity of the production and will let the kids plan evenings throughout the year. Once the family “votes” are in, the tickets will appear under tree and our calendars will become magically blocked. To help the little one participate in the planning and giving, we block early release school days and set up craft stations to make homemade scented soaps, candles, and body scrubs. They are gifts she will take pride in gifting and something the recipients can use and be done with. (Notice the underlying theme to eliminate clutter is to try not to introduce it in the first place.) [ Continued on page 43 ] Shelly Kent is a freelance writer. She may be reached at 404-232-9898 or shellykent@comcast.net.
Community
News Around Forsyth Forsyth Based Firm Receives Two Awards! Peak Resource Group Inc., a Forsyth County based talent acquisition firm, has been recognized for two awards. Peak Resource Group is the proud recipient of the 2012 INC 500/5000 award which recognizes the fastest growing private companies.
Yummyyogurt Den Coffee House is Open Tom and Bobbie Southwell are pleased to announce the opening of their coffee house at Windermere Village in Cumming. Located at 3775 Windermere Parkway, Suite H, Yummyyogurt Den features a self serve frozen yogurt station, smoothies, coffee, specialty drinks, baked goods, and sandwiches. Daily specials are also featured, along with special events, including a book exchange, children’s corner, chess board, and book signings. For details daily events and other specials, visit www.yummyyogurtden.com. The den is open daily.
West Forsyth High School’s Gold Rush Wins Big Congratulations to the members of the Gold Rush, West Forsyth High School’s dance team. The dancers the Georgia High School’s state championship dance competition in various categories, including first place in best choreography, most creativity, and pom division. The team was also selected as the overall State Champions. Tiina Lugus, team dance captain, won first place in solo choreography and solo division. Congratulations!
Peak also received recognition from DiversityBusiness.com as one of the Top 100 Women Owned Businesses in Georgia. Jacki Neal, president and CEO of Peak, commented, “We are very proud to receive these awards for the second year. Wow! We are living our dreams, working with outstanding clients, and also with some of the most talented candidates in the industry. Our recruiters and support staff really make the magic around here. I am fortunate to work with such an accomplished team.” Peak Resource Group was organized in 1997, offering customer-centered contractor staffing and search services, for technology, aerospace, communications and franchisor industries.
Circle A Lettuce Farms has the Goods! Locally grown in Cumming in a pesticide-free, soil-less environment and harvested daily at the peak of freshness, Circle A Lettuce is one of Forsyth’s local farmers with a passion for freshness and health. A consistent drink of nutrient-filled water & optimal pH balance gives their lettuce an exceptional quality. Fresh lettuce is available year-round and is farm-to-table within just a few days, and includes butter bibb, spring mix, romaine and also fresh basil. From “farm to table” the growth process lasts about 45 days, and their first crop hit the market earlier this year. Circle A Lettuce greenhouse is open on Wednesdays from 3:00-5:00 pm for purchase of their fresh lettuce. For details and/or to join one of their neighborhood delivery groups, visit www.circlealettuce.com or call 678-778-3114.
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14 | MY FORSYTH
John Grisham, Richard Nelson Bolles, Rick Evans, Deepak Chopra, MarkTwain, Ken Keyes, Jr., Upton Sinclair, Carl Sandburg, James Joyce, D.H. Lawrence, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Stephen Crane, George Bernard Shaw, Anais Nin, Thomas Paine, Virginia Wolff, e.e. Cummings, William Blake, Edgar Allen Poe, Rudyard Kipling, Henry David Thoreau, Benjamin Franklin, Walt Whitman, Alexandre Dumas, William E.B. DuBois, and Robert Ringer...
What do these famous authors have in common?
Best-selling books that were self-published. Our services include: Ghostwriting Editorial Layout
Cover Design Illustration ISBN, Copyright, LCCN
Printing & Binding eBook Conversion Marketing & Promotion
Bookselling Website Design
Empowering Self-Publishing 1264 Old Alpharetta Road | Alpharetta, GA 30005 | (770) 346-9979 | www.booklogix.com WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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My Home
A New Place Called Home [ by Andrew Greeson ]
Home Buying and Listing during the Holidays
[ by Marie Dinsmore ]
Often thought of as not the right time to sell or buy a home, there are some advantages to placing homes on the market during the holiday season. Some of these benefits include:
It was only my second year working as an Activities Director for a Senior Living Company, when, at the age of twenty-seven, I had the opportunity to become a resident of an Assisted Living Community. For three months, I gained perspective on the daily life of a community dwelling mature adult. At the conclusion of my stay, I found myself at ease with the notion of living in an Assisted Living community when that chapter of life introduces itself. For those three months, it was my home. There really is no place like home. However, I often think about the places I’ve made “home” such as my childhood home, a college dorm room, a trailer in the mountains that shook when the wind blew, and the tiny apartment with an ore mine in the backyard in which my wife and I shared for two years after getting married. Of course, the assisted living I lived in for three months, I called home. Throughout the different chapters of life, the one constant that made each place special, were the people that were present.
•
Houses “show better” when decorated for the holidays with the wonderful light and festive colors associated with the season.
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Buyers are more emotional during the holidays and often base their decision on the warmth and good feeling they receive when viewing your house.
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Buyers have more time to look for a house during the holidays because they have designated time off from work to purchase a home.
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Many people want to buy before the end of the year for financial and tax reasons.
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People who look at properties during the holidays are serious buyers and are more ready to make a decision.
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Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays, so property has less competition.
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January is traditionally for transfers. Transferees can’t wait until the spring to buy. Your house must be on the market to capture these buyers.
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You may restrict showings during your own personal family events and still take advantage of your spruced up and decorated “show ready” property.
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You can sell now, but specify a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year if you so desire and if agreeable to the other party.
An Assisted Living is a place to consider when you are living alone and experience loneliness on a daily basis or if you need someone to assist • with everyday activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing, cleaning, and laundry. You may worry about nutrition, whether you took your medications, or if you have health issues that need some oversight. Furthermore, you may just seek a change, opportunities for continued learning, to try something you’ve never done before, create new relationships, or fulfill a desire to help others or perhaps, give back to the community.
By selling now you have an opportunity to buy during the spring, when more properties are on the market.
At the Oaks at Post Road, we offer a place our residents can call home. Each resident has the opportunity to create the next chapter of their lives with new friendships, set goals to accomplish something they have always wanted to do, challenge themselves to become inspired, or just enjoy the moment in time. Andrew Greeson is the Community Relations Director at The Oaks at Post Road. He may be reached at 770-886-2630. 16 | MY FORSYTH
Marie Dinsmore may be reached at 770-712-7789 or Marie@DinsmoreTeam.com.
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rite vo
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{ForsythFoodie } Recipe
When it’s Chili
Mmm…the mornings are crisp and cool and the sweaters are beginning to make an appearance. It’s one of my favorite times of year and I’ve already been craving some of the season’s best dishes. One of the must haves on my menu
during cold months is a great, tasty, slowcooking chili. With three types of beans and lean turkey this chili recipe is a healthy alternative to a normally heavy dish. Stay warm and enjoy my foodie friends!
Share your recipes and restaurant findings at www.facebook.com/MyForsythFoodie
Crock Pot Slow Cooker 3 Bean Turkey Chili
Join the Forsyth Foodie on Facebook. www.Facebook.com/ MyForsythFoodie
Makes 6 to 8 servings • 1 pound lean ground turkey • 1 small onion, chopped • 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce • 1 can (4 ounces) diced mild green chilies • 1 to 2 tablespoons chili powder Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) French loaf bread
• • • • •
Cook and stir turkey and onion in medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until turkey is no longer pink. Drain and discard fat. Transfer to slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients; mix well. Cover; cook on High 6 to 8 hours Slice French bread; butter each slice; wrap in foil and put in the oven at 350 until golden and crispy Serve chili hot and fresh with cheese sprinkled on top and a slice of bread
Gabby’s Pairings
Japanese Sesame Oil with Honey Ginger Vinegar This wonderful tasting combination gives versatility as an Asian dressing for grilled chicken salador as a marinade/dipping sauce for Asian BBQ’d shrimp. Gabby’s Olive Branch Olive Oil & Vinegar Tasting Bar www.GabbysOliveBranch.com | 770-630-4077 5890 Bethelview Road, Suite 2 | Cumming GA
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Stop by this holiday season for the best in Italian cuisine and a great culinary treat … and leave room for dessert!
“
Great little restaurant in the heart of Cumming. It’s very hard to miss this place because it is tucked away in the back of a small shopping center. There is nothing really fancy about this place but the quality of the food here is just as good as any high end Italian restaurant without the steep price tag.
”
A GreAt PlACe For YoUr HolIDAY GAtHerInGS! CAll toDAY.
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My Business
Is Social Media Uncertain Marketing?
Times
[ by Bruce Longmore ]
[ by Julie Kimball ]
Many business owners struggle with the idea of Social Media. Where does it fit into marketing strategy? How is Social Media cost justified? How much of the marketing budget should go to Social Media?
As of the writing of this article, the elections are behind us, but there is still great uncertainty about what we will be paying in taxes for 2013 and beyond. As predicted, the day after the elections, talk turned to the “Fiscal Cliff”. The fiscal cliff can be described as the perfect storm of tax increases, spending cuts and significant changes in our health care system; any combination of which could have detrimental consequences to our economy. This is all scheduled to go into effect January 1, 2013. There are an abundance of opinions as to whether this will happen, or to what degree the fiscal cliff will happen. There are two key things that taxpayers should keep in mind. If you assume that your taxes will be higher next year, there are strategies that you can implement this year as long as you take action before December 31st. Likewise, there are strategies that can be put in place after January 1st to minimize the effect of increased taxes in the future. Each family has a different set of circumstances and the strategy that works for one taxpayer may not work for another. There is no better time to consult with a tax professional than right now. The US Tax Code typically has hundreds and even sometimes thousands of changes in one year. Some affect all taxpayers and most affect only a few, some only pertain to businesses. Whatever your situation is, isn’t it worth your time to plan and make every effort to keep more of what you make?
Julie Kimball, MBA, is a Certified Financial Planner and Enrolled Agent. She may be reached at 770-928-8100.
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Traditional marketing is selling products or services to prospective customers. If you are approaching Social Media the same way disappointment is right around the corner. Social Media started out as and still is a social gathering online and is not a forum for marketing. People sign on to Facebook®, Twitter®, Pinterest®, Linkedin® and other Social Media sites to learn more about and connect with you. Our original Facebook® and Twitter® business pages were all about selling commercial message after commercial message. Results on Facebook’s Insights (statistics regarding how the fan base is connecting with posted content) were terrible. Two percent is a good rule of thumb. If two percent of the fan base responds that was a “good” post. “Great” posts generate five percent response rates or more. When posting commercial messages our responses were one half percent or worse. Changing our Social Media strategy included connecting with the fans. Some “great” response rates are posting pictures and stories about employees. Posts about supporting local causes do extremely well. Other fan favorites include posts about family, community involvement, holidays, sporting events and local news stories. Businesses will have different fan favorites depending on the industry. For example, a dentist may have success posting about healthy living and a landscape company could do well posting about seasonal flowers or vegetable gardens. Facebook Insights results are “proof” that Social Media is about connecting with customers and not marketing or selling. If you have a business Social Media page or are considering one think in terms of Customer Relationship Management and you will find success in Social Media. Bruce Longmore is a Cumming entrepreneur. He may be reached at 404574-3884 or Success@BruceLongmore. com. Along with his wife Donna, they are the owners of a Lenny’s Sub Shop in Cumming and in Alpharetta.
Lifestyle
Embrace the Madness
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[ by Christine M. Roberts] Before having children my husband and I would observe families who seemed to run themselves ragged seven days a week complaining every step of the way. Well, that’s how we interpreted it anyway. I remember a conversation when we said to each other “we’ll never be that way”. Well guess what here we are two children later with school, sports, church, birthday parties, play dates and on and on…. I found myself falling into the whining and complaining about our busy schedule then one morning I had an epiphany. If we are going to have a full life then we’re going to be busy so I said to myself “Get over it and embrace the madness!” Does this sound familiar? It can be the activities with the children including sports, music lessons, karate, girl scouts, boy scouts, after school clubs. Or is it volunteering at school, local community charity events or maybe its bridge, luncheons, social gatherings. Whatever it is that is keeping us busy is, in most cases, our choice. Now granted we do have to set boundaries but if we are choosing the activities and it seems a bit hectic then we need to change gears and lean into our lives. Don’t get me wrong, even though I had that epiphany I still have my fanatical Mom moments yelling, I mean strongly suggesting, that the children get to bed after getting home late from an activity. Can you relate? But then it’s time for a deep breath and reminding ourselves that this is life and having a full life is something to be grateful for. You may feel like pulling your hair out at times, I know I do, but at the ends of our lives what would you rather look back on? Living a full life with family, friends and activities full of amazing memories or a life where you didn’t push yourself? Focus on all the goodness life has to offer and be thankful. Wouldn’t it be great if we could all do our best to relax and enjoy these busy times. Somehow life would probably run smoother and easier so let’s do our best to embrace the madness!
Christine Roberts is a volunteer with Mentor Me, a local non-profit agency that matches caring volunteers with children who need mentors. Their mission is to help children reach their potential through mentoring relationships with responsible adults. Christine can be reached at Christine.M.Roberts@comcast.net
Your Book’s Title [ by Ahmad Meradji]
A book’s title is, arguably, the most important thing about the book. It should be engaging, creative, and most importantly, memorable. You want the title to roll off the tongue of the morning show anchor, be easy to include in a “Tweet,” or heard in the conversations of total strangers. Many authors spend a long time coming up with their title, and use all sorts of methods to choose it. So what I’m about to say may surprise you: One of the biggest mistakes authors make is not doing enough research when selecting a title. We’ve heard of times where an author published the book and then later realized there were many books for sale on Amazon® with very similar titles. Be sure you’re not using the title of a book that’s already published, or violating someone else’s trademark. Here are some must-do’s for your selection process: • Type your proposed title into the search bar on Amazon® and Barnes & Noble®. Are there any titles that match it or are very similar? If so, how would a buyer find your book in the sea of all those books? • Next, try Google®. What comes up? Movies, song titles, other products? Too many items with the same name would mean your book gets lost in the crowd. • Now check to see if it matches anything that’s trade marked. Go to www.uspto.gov and use the search feature. If there are any matches, be sure to see what categories the filings are under. This site is only for US trademark filings—it doesn’t include international filings, so you may need the assistance of a lawyer for additional research. Your book title is not protected by copyright (a common misconception). If the title of your book is critical to your business, or you want to take an extra step to protect it, consider filing for trademark protection for the title. Your publishing support provider can work with you on researching and finalizing your book’s title. Taking those extra research steps will be well worth it when your book is published.
BookLogix offers free educational publishing workshops/webinars. Visit BookLogix.com for a schedule. Ahmad Meradji is President and CEO of Booklogix Publishing Services in Alpharetta. He can be reached at 770-346-9979 or by email at Ahmad@booklogix.com WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
21
Lifestyle
The Gift of Giving [ by Mike Brennan]
It’s the time of year when thoughts turn to shopping, wrapping, and stowing presents under the tree. It’s great fun for some, and dreaded by others. Sadly, for many, it has become just a social habit, propelled by the momentum of custom. The good news is that we can give the experience new zest, and greater depth and meaning simply by really understanding what it is that we are doing. Giving to others is a most civilized gesture. Like the power of imagination, it is one of the things that distinguish man from the rest of the animals, and it is a proof of that we contain the spark of our Creator. Giving is a way to externalize the sense of love or esteem we have for others—to transform the contents of the heart into a concrete symbol that we pass to another, as a flame passes between two candles.
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It is done, or should be, without expectation of
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22 | MY FORSYTH
reward or return. It is the giving over of a piece of the most irreplaceable thing we have—a part of our lives. It is the humble gesture of those whose greatest treasure trove lies within the soul.
much a lesson as a gift, and it spoke as much of her character as it did her skill with a needle. I no longer have the shirt, but I’ll always have the memory of that day.
The best gifts do not come from the mall or the jeweler. They come from our minds and hearts and hands. Any parent can tell you that even the most humble, hand-lettered birthday card from a child is more precious than a dozen bought at the store.
There are many things we can give to others. There is the gift of love and friendship; of faith, patience or trust. We can pause to put our shoulder to someone else’s wheel, or to carry his burden for a while.
One Christmas thirty-odd years ago, my sister gave me a silk shirt, such as were in vogue with young people at the time and very expensive, which she had made by hand. I was thunderstruck. The fit and workmanship were absolutely perfect, and I stood there for a good while trying to calculate the time and effort she spent to make it so. I was also aware that I was totally unworthy of such a thing, since I was at the age where I spent a good deal of my waking hours being the gnat in her soup. It was as
It was Immanuel Kant’s idea that the only deeds with moral worth were those done from a sense of duty to fellow man. I humbly suggest that this could stand improvement. The duty is to one’s self, since being wholly human involves passing on something of value to others we deem worthy. One path to personal growth is to make giving a year-round habit, and not just a once-a-year obligation. And remember that what gives the gift life is that little something of yourself.
A
family-owned and operated business, not subject to the demands of a corporate chain, has made Scott’s Auto Center one of Georgia’s top automotive repair centers. Recognized nationwide as one of the Top 10 Automotive Centers by MotorAge magazine, Scott’s sticks to the services, values and guarantees that make them the very best.
personalized service and superior quality work remain at the forefront of Scott’s Auto Center’s commitment to its customers and the community it serves.
“I’ve always said that our reputation rides on everything we do – and that’s just not our motto,” states Scott Muse. Muse began repairing cars in 1978, and in 2003 opened a one-bay repair shop. Since then, nearly 10 years ago, Scott’s Auto Center has grown from a one-bay shop into a 16-bay repair center located in Cumming.
“Being a Master ASE Certified Technician means that the technician has proven to be a knowledgeable professional that can handle the complexities and changes in today’s automotive world; technology and diagnostic tools constantly change as does the complexity of the cars we drive,” Muse explains.
Though the shop has grown over the years, 24 | MY FORSYTH
Muse, a Master ASE Certified Technician, has assembled a stellar team of technicians and service personnel, including six Master ASE Certified Technicians.
Customers receive an e-mail survey following the completion of the services received
at Scott’s. “If the survey returned is less than excellent, the client receives a personal response from me,” Muse asserts. Competent and knowledgeable automotive professionals coupled with outstanding customer service makes Scott’s Auto Center a cut above the rest.
The Scott’s Auto Center Master ASE Certified Team Dan, Mike, Scott, Gary, Charles, John
The Scott’s Auto Difference
Scott’s Auto Center Reminders
• Open on Saturdays 8 to 3 • One-stop shop for all autos • Same day service - Courtesy shuttle • Trained Technicians • State of the Art Diagnostics • Quality Parts • Guaranteed Repair / Warranty • All manufacturers’ extended warranties honored • Sitting area clean and comfortable • Putting green • TV and Free Internet Access • On-site Barbershop
• Never pay for an oil disposal fee. Most shops are paid for their used oil, which is hauled off and recycled. • Testing your car’s battery periodically is a good way to keep it from going dead when you least expect it. • Improper tire inflation is one of the main causes of excessive tire wear and poor fuel mileage, so it pays to check your car’s tires regularly. • Check the fluid levels frequently. This would include oil, transmission, coolant, power steering and brake fluids. • Keep up to date with your car’s 30, 60, and 90,000 miles service intervals. • Have your car’s air filter checked at the same time as oil change intervals to keep optimum fuel mileage. • Have your car’s wiper blades checked yearly.
Guaranteed Price Matching 820 Peachtree Pkwy | Cumming, GA 30041 678-947-4040 | www.scottsautocenter.net Business Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00 - 6:00 | Sat: 8:00 - 3:00 WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
25
Health & Wellness
Despite our best efforts some patient’s heart function does not improve. In this setting we often move to device therapies.
Achieving Success With Heart Failure By NARENDRA SINGH, MD, FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA
The diagnosis of heart failure is one of the most dreaded your cardiologist can deliver. It carries with it a prognosis that is worse than most cancers. It is the final common pathway by which the heart fails to meet the needs of the body. As a result one feels shortness of breath, congestion in the lungs, swelling of the legs, generalized fatigue, weight gain and arrhythmias. To make the diagnosis of heart failure in addition to a thorough examination, your cardiologist will often order an EKG, chest x-ray, echocardiogram, and sometimes a heart catheterization or cardiac MRI. Normally the main chamber of the heart (left ventricle) pumps about 60% of its blood content with each beat. This is called the ejection fraction (EF). Although some heart failure occurs in the setting of a normal ejection fraction and a stiff ventricle (diastolic) most are due to weakening. An ejection fraction of less then 35% usually results in heart failure symptoms. Treatment for heart failure often involves educating the patient. Normally we encourage people to drink lots of water but in heart failure the patient must greatly restrict their fluid and sodium intake. We monitor fluid retention by using a scale to weigh themselves daily. Based on this one can adjust their diuretic dose which will get rid of the fluid but at the expense of drying out the kidneys. All heart failure patients need to be on a number of medications that will gradually increase the ejection fraction. The most important of these are beta blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol). Subsequently an ACE inhibitor or ARB (but not both) are added. Finally a medication called spironolactone is needed. Since these medications can affect 26 | MY FORSYTH
blood pressure, heart rate, and the kidneys, they need to be monitored closely. These medications are truly wonder drugs having taken patients on the verge of heart transplantation to being able to lead a healthy and energetic life ! Despite our best efforts some patient’s heart function does not improve. In this setting we often move to device therapies. These include ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators), CRTs (cardiac resynchronization therapy) and VAD’s (ventricular assist device). The latter is essentially a mini artificial heart powered by batteries that the patient carries in an attached backpack! The final option is receiving a heart transplantation. This is unfortunately restricted by donor supply and therefore I encourage everyone to consider registering as a donor. Of course, the best treatment for heart failure is not developing it at all. Some forms of heart failure are congenital, viral, or the undesirable side effect of chemotherapy. These cannot be avoided but the majority are related to risk factors (hypertension, diabetes) and lifestyle choices (smoking, inactivity) that we make each day. Let’s continue our success in heart failure by preventing its presentation!
Dr. Narendra Singh, MD FRCPC FACC FAHA studied at the Dalhousie Medical School in Halifax Nova Scotia and went on to complete a residency and cardiology fellowship at the University of Toronto. He is the Director of Clinical Research at Atlanta Heart Specialist.
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27
Health & Wellness
What is Functional Medicine? [ by John C. Thomas, DC ]
Most people view Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), hyperactivity and learning disabilities as behavioral problems or psychological issues. However, these disorders are actually a complex net of neurological, immunological and nutritional problems.
to work in a balanced fashion. These two sides of the brain must fire at an equal frequency for us (humans) to be normal. If one side fires less than the other (due to trauma, severe emotional stresses, virus, infections, inflammations, etc.) then that part of the brain will express less function and less ability to express itself.
ADD, ADHD, hyperactivity disorders, etc. are just labels, and not good ones. They place expectations on a child that they often will live up or down to. Traditional diagnoses of ADD and ADHD are understandable, but they do not tell us what to do to find the mechanism of the child’s behavioral problem, in order to balance, improve and or correct it.
“The most basic definition of Functional Medicine would be what I call Life Changing Care”
The behavioral problems stem from neurological and metabolic imbalances. It is not that these are socially dysfunctional children; their behavior is a result of multiple functional imbalances. The latest research is clear on what causes most behavioral problems and that is an electrical imbalance between the two sides of the brain. This is called the Functional Disconnection Syndrome (FDS). Here’s how it works. The brain has two completely different sides with completely different functions which need to be coordinated for the whole brain
In many behavioral children, the right side of the brain is deficient. The right side of the brain houses our social skills, likes soft music and sounds, houses the stop mechanism of our brain, is the “sad” side of our brain, controls body awareness, concentration and self-control. The left side of this child’s brain likes rote memorization; it’s where our “academic” skills reside; it likes loud noises, flickering lights (think computers, TV), sameness and repetition. Note that while this is a very basic description of the brains hemisphere functions, it should serve to educate in this scenario.
Going back to the functional disconnection syndrome, we can see very quickly what happens in the ADD, ADHD, learning and behavioral disabled child. Something occurs to cause the brain to “disconnect” the wiring between the two brain hemispheres and in this example, the right brain becomes weakened and not working very well while the left brain becomes dominant. This produces a child who likes TV, video games, computers and all things loud (left brain). They interrupt, due to the right-sided weakened social skills. They perseverate, doing the same things over and over again (left brain). They like routines, rituals (left brain). They have a good memory (left brain) usually they have poor social skills (weak right brain), poor body awareness (weak right brain) cannot concentrate (right brain) have tantrums (right brain) and cannot control them. Dr. John C Thomas, DC, DAAIM is clinic director of Integrated Healthcare of Georgia. For more information he can be reached at 678-456-9122 or visit www.integratedhealthcaregeorgia.com
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29
Health & Wellness
Falling into Fall [ by Julia Lott, M.S., R.D., L.D. ] When you think of autumn, you think of turning leaves, pumpkins, scarecrows, and festivals. In the cooler months, some of us can sometimes lose focus on our health and wellness goals. Swim suit season is over, but it doesn’t mean that we can lose sight of our overall health goals. There are still many things we can do to stay healthy and active during the cooler months. For instance, this is a great time of year to take hikes in the beautiful North Georgia mountains and appreciate the stunning colors of the beautiful foliage. During the fall, you’re less likely to get hot and overheated while being active so bring along the kids and the family dog on the hike. Another great opportunity to get some exercise is to go to a local pumpkin patch or apple orchard and walk around to find the perfect produce to bring back home. Winter squash and pumpkins are a very good source of antioxidants Vitamin A, Vitamin, C, and Vitamin E and apples are a good source of fiber and Vitamin C. If you’re not into picking produce, there are lots of corn mazes for kids and adults to get plenty of exercise. You may want to visit the website: http:// www.pickyourown.org for information on local farms and activities. There are so many additional fruits and vegetables in season during the fall months, for instance, winter squash, swiss chard, cranberries, brussels sprouts, figs, pears, parsnips, collard greens, and raspberries. These fruits and vegetables are the perfect ingredients for stews, casseroles, and hearty sauces. Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine TM has launched their new fall menu. The menu is full of these delicious and healthful seasonal fruits and vegetables. Some of my favorites are the Sweet Potato Cottage Pie, Buckwheat Berry Pancakes, and the Braised Red Cabbage. You can see our complete menu at www.freshnfitcuisine.com.
Julia Lott has a Master of Science in Nutrition and a BBA in Marketing from Georgia State University. She enjoys creating meals that are both nutritious and delicious to health conscious individuals. She may be reached at 678-208-0341. 30 | MY FORSYTH
Are you a Golfer? Lenses are now designed with the golfer in mind. What is so special about that lens? • Sharp viewing in all three crucial focal areas - the far distant green, the ball at the player’s feet, and the score card in his hand. • Enhanced peripheral vision. Advantages: • Designed to suit wraparound frames. • Available as Progressive and single vision lens. • Extra-protection safety materials. • UV and Blue Light protection! Is it the right lens for you? Yes, if you’re seeking a solution to maximize your performances in the golf game! Can those lenses be covered by my vision insurance? They sure can!
For any questions, please do not hesitate to call For Your Eyes Only at 678-648-5185.
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Health & Wellness
Your risk of developing colorectal cancer is a combination of controllable and uncontrollable factors.
Colorectal Cancer:
Understanding Your Risk and How to Prevent It By Betty McGinty, Director of Northside GI Services Colorectal cancer, or cancer of the large intestine, is the second highest cause of cancer-related deaths and the third most diagnosed cancer among men and women. Luckily, modern technology makes screening for colorectal cancer much easier, and when detected early, it is a very treatable disease. Colorectal cancers usually start off as polyps, or small, benign clumps of cells. Over time, these “harmless� polyps can develop into deadly cancerous growths. Doctors can also remove potentially dangerous polyps during routine colorectal cancer screening exams, called colonoscopies. In the beginning, colorectal cancer produces little or no symptoms. Symptoms are usually only recognizable when cancer is advanced and harder to treat, which is why routine screenings and early detection are so critical. Pay close attention to your body and if you experience any change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea and constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, fatigue and/ or unexplained weight loss, talk to your doctor immediately. You may need to schedule a screening. Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer Your risk of developing colorectal cancer is a combination of controllable and uncontrollable factors. People older than 50 as well as those who have a family history of colorectal, ovarian, or breast cancer have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than others. Luckily, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of developing this disease, even if some of the risk factors you have are unmanageable. In fact, researchers believe that eating a nutritious diet, exercising, and controlling body fat could prevent nearly 45% of colorectal cancers. What you can do to stay healthy Dramatically reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer by following these five simple rules: 32 | MY FORSYTH
1. Exercise. Physical activity is a powerful weapon against colorectal cancer. In a recent study, exercise was linked to a 24% decreased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. 2. Eat nutritious foods. Adhering to a healthy low-fat diet with plenty of fiber and at least five servings of fruits and veggies each day can dramatically reduce your risk of developing cancer. Also, limit red and processed meats---they are linked to an increased cancer risk. 3. Get Screened. Your recovery largely depends on the stage of your cancer, which is why early detection is so important. Stage 1 colorectal cancer has 74% five-year survival rate whereas Stage IV only has a 6% five-year rate. Beginning at age 50, schedule routine colonoscopies at least every 10 years. 4. Manage Vices. Smoking and drinking radically contribute to your risk of developing colorectal cancer. People who consume more than 7 alcoholic beverages a week have a 72 percent increased risk, whereas long-term smokers have up to a 164 percent increased risk. 5. Keep Your Weight in Check. Obese people (those with a BMI over 29) have a 20 percent increased risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those of normal weight. Advanced Center for GI Therapeutics at Northside Hospital When caught early, colorectal cancer is very treatable and survival rates are vey high. However, left undetected, survivorship is significantly less. The Advanced Center for GI Therapeutics at Northside Hospital offers the latest technology and the most comprehensive preventative care to diagnose and treat early colorectal cancer.
Northside Hospital Forsyth is located at 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming GA.
Schools
GET READY FOR THE SECOND SEMESTER Remember that “go get ‘em” attitude you and your child had at the beginning of the school year? That certainty that setting aside “homework time,” limiting TV and recreational Web surfing and staying in close contact with teachers would lead to top grades all year long? If these seem like distant memories now that the year is half over, you’re not alone. Unfortunately the mid-point of the school year can be a “make or break” time for addressing any problems that have held your son or daughter back. Taking a close look at the following indicators will help you determine if your child’s current studying habits and overall approach to school work are making the grade: Indicator #1: Grades and teacher conferences Take a look at your child’s overall grades during the first half of the year. If you believe your child could have done better, talk directly with teachers to determine any issues that are impacting his or her progress. It’s also important to tell the teacher about any issues that may affect your child’s academic success. Family tension, financial concerns, health issues or marital problems directly impact a child’s ability to concentrate in school. Creating a partnership between school and home is a responsibility that both parents and teachers share.
Indicator #2: Standardized test results In recent years, parents and students have paid the most attention to standardized tests, during the spring, specifically the CRCT – that can determine a student’s ability to graduate or move on to the next grade. But you can get a good idea of which skills should be strengthened in advance of these tests by taking a second look at the results of other standardized exams that may have been given during the fall. If your child scored poorly in reading or mathematics at the beginning of the year, for example, you might pay particular attention to these areas as he or she prepares for the high stakes tests that will be given in just a few months. Indicator #3: Homework While some students tend to complete homework successfully all year, many may have fallen out of the “homework habit” as the December holidays approached. After a long break, January is a good time to ramp up for the coming months by re-establishing important routines, such as setting time aside for homework each afternoon or evening and maintaining a specific area of your house or apartment specifically for homework.
Indicator #4: The Work/Life Balance While sports, clubs and other school-related leisure activities can make the educational experience much more wellrounded and rewarding, they should never become more important than academic progress. It’s therefore important to find the right balance between leisure and learning time. Take a look at your child’s academic success during the first half of the year and weigh it against all of the extracurricular activities that filled his or her schedule. Were there enough hours in a typical day last semester to keep up with schoolwork while enjoying every activity? Working collaboratively, parents and students should prioritize activities that are most important, and create a schedule that strikes the right balance.
For more information about how Huntington can help your child, call the center directly at 770-292-8994.
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35
Schools 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 Davis ardavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us Johns Creek Elementary 6205 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (678) 965-5041 Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us 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 Midway Elementary 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (770) 475-6670 Principal: Todd Smith tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us Sawnee Elementary 1616 Canton Highway, (770) 887-6161 Principal: Dr. Eileen Nix ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us Settles Bridge Elementary 600 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (770) 887-1883 Principal: Donna Morris dmorris@forsyth.k12.ga.us 36 | MY FORSYTH
School Information www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Sharon Elementary 3595 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (770) 888-7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us
High Schools
Shiloh Point Elementary 8145 Majors Road, (678) 341-6481 Principal: Rebecca Johnson rjohnson@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Lambert High School 805 Nichols Road, (678) 965-5050 Principal: Dr. Gary Davison gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Sliver City Elementary 6200 Dahlonega Highway, (678) 965-5020 Principal: Paige Andrews pandrews@forsyth.k12.ga.us
North Forsyth High 3635 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 781-6637 Principal: Beth Hebert bhebert@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Vickery Creek Elementary 6280 Post Road, (770) 346-0040 Principal: Kristan Riedinger kriedinger@forsyth.k12.ga.us
South Forsyth High 585 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 781-2264 Principal: Jeff Cheney jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Whitlow Elementary 3655 Castleberry Road, (678) 965-5090 Principal: Lynne Castleberry lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us
West Forsyth High 4155 Drew Road, (770) 888-3470 Acting Principal: Betty Pope rgill@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Middle Schools
Private Schools
Lakeside Middle 2565 Echols Road, (678) 965-5080 Principal: Debbie Sarver dsarver@forsyth.k12.ga.us Liberty Middle 7465 Wallace Tatum Road, (770) 781-4889 Principal: Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us Little Mill Middle 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 Otwell Middle 605 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us Piney Grove Middle 8135 Majors Road, (678) 965-5010 Principal: Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us Riverwatch Middle 610 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (678) 455-7311 Principal: Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us South Forsyth Middle 2865 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 888-3170 Principal: Sandy Tinsley stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us Vickery Creek Middle 6240 Post Road, (770) 667-2580 Principal: Kathy Rohacek krohacek@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Forsyth Central High 520 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-8151 Principal: Rudy Hampton rhampton@forsyth.k12.ga.us
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 Ivy League Montessori School 1791 Kelly Mill Road, (770) 781-5586 School Director: Becky Carty www.ilmsnet.com 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 of Cumming 3034 Old Atlanta Road, (678) 208-0774 Head of School, Charlotte Pixley www.montessoricumming.com [ Continued on page 43 ]
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37
Faith
Leaf Lessons
Those Mysterious Southern Women
I
[ by Nancy Johnson ]
recently learned that leaves do not change their colors in the fall. This was news to me. I would have sworn that they did. Every autumn I drive into the mountains with my family to see all of these pretty new colors. I’m fairly certain that my eyes did not deceive me.
[ by Neida Streit ]
Most people seem to think of all southern women as Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind. The biggest myth about southern women is that we are frail, dumb, fragile beauties that need to be taken care of and protected from, well, just about everything. We are so fragile that we faint on the couch every few minutes. Well, I, for one, have never even seen a southern woman swoon onto a couch. In fact – it wouldn’t be considered ‘proper’ and you would get your backside ‘tanned’ for it (that means a ‘spanking’ in real English). Religion is very important to a Southern Woman. Proverbs 31:10-31 is the basis for what our mothers and grandmothers taught us. It is too long to quote here, but look it up – it will explain an awful lot about Southern women and why we can do some of the things we do – we can cook, sew, embroider, knit, crochet, clean, have good manners, shoot, fish, play sports, climb trees, swim, change tires and have basic mechanical and carpentry skills. While we are perfectly capable of doing for ourselves, if we let our gentleman do things for us, we feel pampered and they feel needed. It is also just good manners – which is very important in The South. We are taught to appreciate our natural assets. Cleanliness and smiling is good; the deadly sins are bad hair, bad manners and being a terrible cook. Southern Women are very well educated – don’t let that slow drawl fool you into thinking we are dumb. If you fall into that trap, you WILL regret underestimating a Southern Woman and our dedication to not only embarrassing/punishing you at the time, but forever. You might even get to see us ‘throw a hissie’ or ‘pitch a conniption’. There is a difference, and no, I can’t explain it – just something we are born knowing, but you will start figuring it out when you see a few of these. A Southern cook does not need a recipe, measuring cup, or menu guides. We know exactly how much is in a pinch, a dash, a mess, a peck, a bushel or a slew. Sliced tomatoes are served for breakfast, lunch and supper; fried green tomatoes are NOT breakfast. There is a BIG difference in gravy – red-eye gravy, sawmill gravy, brown gravy, white gravy, sausage gravy, chicken gravy, roast gravy and just plain gravy. The difference lies mostly in what ‘drippins’ you start with. Southern cooks keep a ‘drippins’ jar in the fridge, and a soup bowl in the freezer; bacon grease gets saved in the ‘drippins’ jar
What did trick me, however, was chlorophyll. It turns out that the lovely green leaves that we know through the warm seasons are made that way by the chemical that helps them to turn sunlight into food. Chlorophyll allows the plants to nourish themselves from their environment and it turns the leaves into the lovely shades of green that we associate with the days of spring and summer. Green, however, isn’t their natural color. Their real colors are the various hues that we enjoy when the temperatures turn cooler. The yellows and oranges are present, though concealed; making an appearance only toward the end. We live much of our lives with our eyes turn toward the future. As children, we dream of growing up becoming a veterinarian, firefighter or circus clown. When we leave college and begin the real career, we imagine the day when we will make a name for ourselves. It isn’t long, then, before our thoughts turn to the golden years of retirement, when we take the time to focus on friends, faith and family. I have learned two lessons from the leaves. The first is that it is better to enjoy the beauty of the present, here and now, than to wait for what might come. As much benefit as we receive from planning and dreaming about the future, we can squander today by constantly placing our hopes on tomorrow, waiting for the happiness that will only come down the road. The joy that we experience in life will come in this moment or not at all. The priorities that we settle on will be lived now or never. The second lesson is to value true colors. Most of us spend way too much energy being what we think we ought to be, rather than cherishing the person that has God made in us. While we are usually joking when we say it, we are God’s gift to the world; our individuality, our true color and shape, our very selves are the present that God has wrapped with a bow and offered to the mosaic of creation. In each of us is the beauty and matchlessness of an autumn landscape. Relish it now, rather than wishing for spring. Happiness is found in embracing the reality of who we are and where we are on our journey. There is joy in each moment and beauty in each facet of ourselves if we can grasp it. It is all God’s good gift, our admission to life on the planet. May we welcome it with the same awe and gratitude as we do the colors of the season.
[ Continued on page 43 ]
Neida Streit is the Director of Communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church. She may be reached at 770-887-2900 or nstreit@cfumcga.com 38 | MY FORSYTH
Rev. Nancy Johnson is a resident of Cumming, Georgia and the pastor of Christ United Methodist Church in Roswell. More of her writing can be found on her blog A Feast for the Soul at soul-feast.blogspot.com. She can be reached at nancy.johnson@ngumc.net.
Faith
Lean Hard [ by Maria I. Morgan ]
She was in pain. Our Golden Retriever, Precious, had torn her cranial cruciate ligament, making surgery a necessity. The procedure went better than expected, but her sad, brown eyes spoke volumes - the operation had taken a great deal out of her. A bright pink cast, reaching from Precious’ toes to the base of her hip, decorated her right rear leg. Her gait was reduced to a hobble and she struggled to maintain her balance when she walked. After taking Precious out to the bathroom a few times, I made a discovery. If I walked on her left side, she leaned against me taking advantage of the support I offered. Together we were able to cross the deck and make it down the couple steps to the ground without too much difficulty. I’m a lot like my dog. The difficulties of life take a toll on me - my steps become wobbly and unsure. Although I may not wear a visible cast for all to see, it’s clear I’ve been struggling and am in need of help. The Savior reminds me of His presence on the pathway. He invites me to lean on Him for support, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. F or my yoke is easy, and my burden is light,” (Matthew 11:28-30; KJV). King Asa was one of the few kings of Judah who relied on the Lord when the going got tough. When threatened by the Ethiopians with war, Asa cried out to God, “Lord, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O Lord our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O Lord, thou art our God; let not man prevail against thee,” (2 Chronicles 14:11). King Asa knew he could lean on the Lord for support. The result? God defeated the Ethiopians and gave Judah the victory. What trial are you facing today? Lean on the Lord and receive His support!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for walking beside me every day. I give You the burdens I’m carrying. Help me lean on You and take advantage of the support You offer. Thank You for the rest You give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Maria Morgan is a freelance writer and a Cumming resident. Visit her on the web @ www.mariaimorgan.blogspot.com
Christmas Season Services S, D F L C : C W : ✦ S, D B C : C W : ✦ M, D C E N – S H C – C’ S : – T C C S – E S C ✦
CUMMING FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH C H C GA (770) 887-2900 .. WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Faith
Cumming Area Houses of Worship
Non-Denominational
11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) Hispanic Service is at 10:30 a.m. in our Activities Center.
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 Pastor, Dr. Richard G. Lee, Founding Pastor www.firstredeemer.org Greater Heights Baptist Church 3790 Post Road, (770) 887-4802 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11 a.m. 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 40 | MY FORSYTH
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.episcopalholyspirit.org
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 103 Buford Dam Road, (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 email: 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. 30041 770-889-5328 ctklutheran.com Sunday Worship Service 8:15 AM Traditional 9:30 AM Contemporary 11:00 AM Traditional 1:00 PM Hispanic Sunday School 9:30 AM
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) 8875542 Pastor Stan Percival www.fccga.org The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday 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
Faith
The Country Preacher [ by David Hill ]
Brisk mornings, changing leaves and short days are pleasant reminders that cold weather is here again. At this time of year our family gathered the last of our summer garden for winter storage. Our remaining tomatoes were wrapped in newspaper and carried to the cellar. We enjoyed the green fried tomatoes with our meals. Tomatoes with a blush of pink would line the window sills to ripen. Carrots, potatoes and beets were dug up and stored in baskets, still covered with dirt clinging to them. We believed washing caused them to rot. Mother usually canned at least 100 quarts of corn and 100 quarts of beans as well as blackberry jam, pickles and apple and pear butter. The chest freezer was packed with all the fruits and other vegetables it would hold. Soon some would be eaten with our Thanksgiving meal. Although I was still a teenager, it gave me a great feeling to know we had grown most of what we would be eating. Raising our own food was comforting. Throughout the summer the chickens I had raised for 4-H were dressed and frozen. Black walnuts were scattered in the dirt driveway for the car to mash off the green hulls before being gathered to dry. The pumpkins we had planted between the corn rows lined cellar shelves awaiting their transformation into a delicious Thanksgiving dessert.
for days, and for years”. Genesis 1:16, 14; Psalm 104:19. The three phases of crops, first fruits, harvest and gleaning, are closely tied in the Scriptures. The crops and seasons, like all language in the Bible, may be figurative, symbolic or literal according to the context. It guides us in determining how to read it. Here are a few of the lessons the seasons teach us: 1. Sowing and reaping teach us about rewards and judgment: “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap .” “let us not be weary in well doing : for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galations 6:7, 9 2 Preparing for future needs is like a wise son that “gathereth in summer . . . but he that sleepeth in harvest . . . causeth shame.” Proverbs 10:5 3. Consistent living is called “instant in season, out of season” in II Timothy 4:2 and the shortness of sins’ pleasure is “for a season” in Hebrews 11:25. 4. The urgency of preparing our soul for eternity is described with “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.” Jeremiah 8:20 5. The brevity of a man’s life is like a seasonal “flower of the field, so he
Seasons are the plan of God. On the fourth day of creation He “made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: He made the stars also.” “let them be for signs, and for seasons, and
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. Parkway Presbyterian Church 5830 Bethelview Road, (678) 889-8694 www.parkway-chruch.org 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 www.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 www.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; 5:30 p.m. Spanish Mass, 1:30 p.m. Weekdays: 9 a.m Pastor: Father Frank www.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 www.stbrendansatl.com United Methodist Bethelview United Methodist Church 4525 Bethelview Road, (770) 887-4888 Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. www.bethelview.net (child care available) Pastor: Rev. Deborah Griffith Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Highway, (770) 887-2900
[ Continued on page 43 ] Rev. Hill is a Cumming resident and frequent guest preacher at Antioch Baptist Church. Biblical quotes are from the King James Version of the Bible.
Sunday Services: 9 a.m. at Bald Ridge Marina 9:51 a.m. Contemporary Service www.cfumcga.com (Child care available) Sunday Hispanic/Latino Worship: 12 noon Wednesday Communion Service: 12 noon Senior Pastor: Rev. John L. Cromartie, Jr. 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 • www.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. www.midwayumc.org Piedmont United Methodist Church 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
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[ Continued on page 43 ]
Cumming Area Clubs and Organizations
Business Networking
Central Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tuesdays 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 Network for Business Professionals Meeting: Thursdays 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Location: New) 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. Forsyth Business Network Meeting: Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. Location: Stars & Strikes, 133 Merchants Square Contact: Cheryl Campbell, cheryl@starsandstrikes.org Information: There is a membership fee, may visit twice for free. The Inspiration Network of Cumming Meeting: Third Wednesdays from 7 — 8:30 p.m. Location: The Nurturing Nook, 205 Pilgrim Mill Road Contact: Leanne Temple, (678) 965-5969 The Networking Social Meeting: Mondays 6:00 p.m. Location: The Ridge 1035 Turner Road, Cumming GA Contact: Kimberly Starr, 770-313-6546 kimberly@thenetworkingsocial.com Information: The Networking Social is about reaching your professional goals by utilizing a personal marketing and relationship networking approach. Open to everyone. Visit www. TheNetworkingSocial.com for details. Member Power Networking Lunch Every Tuesday at 12 Noon Meeting: Location: Various chamber member restaurants Contact: (770) 887-6461 or www.cummingforsythchamber.org Information: $15 for members and $30 for non-members South Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 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
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Women Who Mean Business Meeting: First Tuesday, 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 www. cummingforsythchamber.org.
Charitable Organizations
Georgia Highlands Medical Services Contact: (770) 887-1668 Information: This is a non-profit Community Health Center (CHC) serving the medical needs of North Georgia since 1979. Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. Contact: (770) 886-5419 Website: www.savethehorses.org Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter Location: 4440 Keith Bridge Road Contact: (770) 887-6480 Information: Non-profit, no-kill shelter for cats and dogs. Website: www.forsythpets.org 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: www.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: www.WhisperingHope.org
Civic Organizations
Ducktown Chapter #460 — Order of the Eastern Star Meeting: 2nd & 4th Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Location: 4655 Canton Hwy. Contact: (770) 887-8147 Rotary Club of South Forsyth Meeting: Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. Location: 6300 Polo Club Drive Website: www.southforsythrotaryclub.org
Political Organizations
Democratic Women of Forsyth County Meeting: Second Thursday Location: Different restaurants in Cumming Contact: Mary Chatfield, (770) 887-1106 Facebook page: DWFC GA Information: Democratic women meet monthly and the meetings alternate between lunch and dinner meetings with programs.
Forsyth County Democratic Party Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: CooCoo’s Nest restaurant, corner of Freedom Parkway & Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming Contact: Ricia Maxie at ricialm@aol.com or Mary Chatfield at (770) 887-1106
Recreation & Hobbies
Cumming Garden Club Contact: (770) 844-7061 Meeting: Held second Tuesday 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. Cuong Nhu Martial Arts Club Contact: (404) 423-3524 Meeting: Every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Central Park Website: www.meetup.com/North-Atlanta Cuong-Nhu-Martial-Arts-Club/ Information: No fees, open to 16 years + North Georgia Chess Center Location: 2450 Atlanta Hwy. Suite 1401 Contact: Joseph or Cathy Couvillion 770-844-9204, northgachesscenter@gmail.com, www.northgachesscenter.com Information: Call for hours. Membership $15 per month or $150 annually. Lessons are also available. Piecemakers Quilt Guild Meeting: 2nd Tuesday 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: www.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-hour information line: (770) 886-0696 Information: Group of Alcoholics Anonymous located in Forsyth County Website: www.aacummingga.org Forsyth County Newcomers and Women’s Club Meeting: Third Thursday of each month Location: Windermere Golf Club Contact Mika King, forsythcountynewcomers@gmail.com Information: A luncheon with program, many interest group activities every week (ladies, mens, couples and singles). Open to all women in Forsyth and surrounding counties. Website: www.newcomersclubofforsyth.org
clubs, Continued Holistic Moms Network - Forsyth County Monthly meetings with informational speakers, yoga group, play groups Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Location: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House 5095 Post Road, Cumming Contact: Ann Linke at holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com Website: www.holisticmoms.org Labrador Friends of the South, Inc. Location: PO Box 933, Cumming Contact: labfriendinfo@gmail.com Website: www.labradorfriends.com Moms Club of Cumming — North Monthly meetings with informational speakers, park play days, holiday parties, fieldtrips, playgroups and a monthly MOMS Night Out. Contact: momscummingnorth@yahoo.com Website: www.momsclub.org Moms Club of Cumming — Southwest Meeting: Last Tuesday of each month Contact: http://www.momsclub.org NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin Meeting: Meetings: Second and fourth Thursday 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: www.namifdlga.org 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 Thursday every month at 6:30pm Location: 210 Dahlonega St., Suite 203, Cumming Contact: Valerie Daniel Faith’s House, Inc. 770-205-6311 website: www.faithshouseinc.org
Putting the Time in Christmastime, Continued (continued from page 12) While there may be fewer Barbie dolls, colognes, and lotion-infused socks under tree this year, I’m finally comfortable with letting go of trying to fill my family’s lives with material things to show them how much they matter to me and instead replacing those items with memories of building our holidays together and enjoying our “Christmas present outings” long into the months of January, February, and beyond. What can you do this year to eliminate one thing from under the tree and substitute a family-shared memory instead? Check out local family experiences at the Cumming Playhouse, Let’s Roll Skate and Fun Center, Stars and Strikes Family Entertainment Center, The Ice Skating and Ice Hockey Complex, or take advantage of living near a cultural epicenter and make plans to hit the theatre, museums, concerts, and shows in Atlanta. However you decide to spend your holidays, we at My Forsyth magazine wish you a safe, healthy, and memorable time!
Those Mysterious Southern Women, Continued in the fridge and leftover vegetables get saved in the soup bowl in the freezer – when the bowl is full, it is time to make soup for supper! I guess I should say that the soup bowl is a plastic freezer container with a lid. Southern cooks also know how to make a casserole out of any kind of leftovers in the fridge. We can also make jelly out of anything and are adept at canning anything. A Southern woman knows how to pick her battles, fight with the heart of a pit bull and still maintain the proper air of grace and elegance. We can feed a crowd of any size, talk about SEC football and NASCAR, direct an army …… well, you get the picture.
SMART Recovery Meeting: Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Professional Recovery Counseling, LLC. 107 W. Court house Square, Suite 274 Website: www.smartrecovery.org
The Country Preacher, Continued flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone”. Psalm 103:15-16 God has a plan for our lives that is seen in the pattern of creation “For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse”. Romans 1:20
Schools, Continued Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 888-4477 Head of School: Fr. Robert Presutti www.pinecrestacademy.com
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Reference
Elected & Appointed Officials United States Government: President Barack H. Obama (D) 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov
(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461
Commissioners: R.J. (Pete) Amos, District 1 (R) e-mail: rjamos@forsythco.com
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) Atlanta Office: 100 Galleria Parkway Suite 1340 GA: Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website
(202) 224-3521
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) Atlanta Office: One Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.isakson.senate.gov
(202) 224-3643
Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 Georgia Office: Wachovia Center GA: 500 Jesse Jewel Parkway, Suite 301, Gainesville, GA 30503 Website: www.tomgraves.house.gov
(202) 225-5211 (770) 535-2592
Rep. Rob Woodall. (R), District 7 Email: woodall@mail.house.gov Website: http://woodall.house.gov
(770) 963-2420
State Government: Governor Nathan Deal (R) Website: www.gov.state.ga.us fax:
(770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
(770) 661-0999
(404) 652-7003 (404) 652-7123
LT. Governor Casey Cagle Website: www.gov.state.ga.us
(404) 656-5030
Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax:
(770) 887-1960 (770) 205-0602
Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov
(678) 341-6203 fax: (770) 844-5821
Rep. Mark Hamilton (R), District 23 e-mail: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov
(770) 844-6768
Rep. Mike Dudgeon (R), District 24 e-mail: mike.dudgeon@house.ga.gov
(770) 887-0400
Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov
(404) 657-8534
Forsyth County Government: Forsyth County Board of Commissioners 110 East Main Street, Suite 210, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 781-2101 Website:www.forsythco.com fax: (770) 781-2199
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County Manager Doug Derrer
(770) 781.2101 fax : (770) 781.2199
(678) 513-5881
Brian R. Tam, District 2 (R) e-mail: brtam@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5882
Todd Levent, District 3 (R) e-mail: tlevent@forsythco.com
(770) 781-2101
Patrick B. Bell, District 4 (R) e-mail: pbbell@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5884
Jim Boff, District 5 (R) e-mail: jjboff@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5885
Forsyth County School System Superintendent, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 1120 Dahlonega Highway Cumming Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Forsyth County Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter 1092 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Website: www.forsythco.com Board of Education: Ann Crow, District 1 (R) e-mail: ACrow@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-2461
(770) 781-2110
(770) 490-6316
Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R) e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 781-5222
Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R) e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 657-0810
Darla Light, District 4 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-0678
Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R) e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 889-0229
City of Cumming Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt Cumming City Hall 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040
(770) 781-2010
Cumming City Council Members: Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton City Administrator Gerald Blackburn City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net
(770) 781-2010
Reference
Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines: Battered Women Hotline Poison Control Center — Atlanta Outside Metro Atlanta Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center Medical Northside Hospital — Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive Neighborhood Healthcare Center 2825 Keith Bridge Road Health Department 428 Canton Highway Fire and Law Enforcement City of Cumming Police Department 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard Forsyth County Fire Department 3520 Settingdown Road Georgia State Patrol Libraries Forsyth County Public Library 585 Dahlonega Road Hampton Park Library 5345 Settingdown Road Sharon Forks Branch 2810 Old Atlanta Road Parks and Recreation City of Cumming Main Number: 410 Pilgrim Mill Road Central Park Office Central Park Recreation Center 2300 Keith Bridge Road Windermere Park 3355 Windermere Parkway Fairgrounds 235 Castleberry Road Golf Clubs Chestatee Golf Club 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville Country Land Golf Course 6560 Mayfield Drive Polo Golf & Country Club 6300 Polo Club Drive Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Drive
(770) 479-1703 (404) 616-9000 (800) 222-1222 (404) 250-KIDS (770) 428-2666
(770) 844-3200 www.northside.com (770) 844-7494 (770) 886-7135 (770) 781-6906
(770) 781-2000 www.cummingpd.net (770) 781-2180 www.forsythco.com (770) 205-5400
(770) 781-9840 www.forsythpl.org (770) 781-9840 (770) 781-9840
(770) 781-2030
Forsyth County Marinas Habersham Marina 2200 Habersham Marina Road Port Royale Marina 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville
(770) 887-5432 (770) 887-5715
YMCA 6050 Y Street
(770) 888-2788
POST OFICE 525 Tribble Gap Road
(770) 886-2388
Schools Forsyth County Board of Education www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
See page 36 for complete listing (770) 887-2461
UTILITIES City of Cumming (770) 781-2020 Water & Sewer Forsyth County Water & Sewer Department (770) 781-2160 110 East Main Street www.forsythco.com Solid Waste Advanced Disposal/Eagle Point Landfill (770) 887-6063 8880 Old Federal Road, Ball Ground www.advanceddisposal.com Olde Atlanta Recycling LLC (770) 205-6912 2535 Ivy Street East Waste Management, Inc. (770) 751-1304 774 McFarland Road, Alpharetta www.wm.com Recycling Keep Forsyth County Beautiful (770) 205-4573
(770) 781-2215 (678) 455-8540
Telephone AT&T Residential Business www.att.com
(770) 781- 2215
Georgia Power
888) 660-5890
(770) 781-3491
Sawnee Electric Membership
(770) 887-2363
(888) 757-6500 (866) 213-6300
(706) 216-7336 (770) 887-0006 (770) 887-7656 (678) 513-1000
WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Support the Advertisers that Support Your Community! ACCOUNTING Summit Financial Services....................5 770-928-8100 www.sfsga.com
DANCE ACADEMIES Cumming Dance Academy...................5 770-781-4922 www.CummingDanceAcademy.com
ATTORNEY Steven Liebel.......................................37 706-867-7575 www.northgeorgiapersonalinjury.com
DENTISTS /ORTHODONTICS Jordan Dentistry..................................31 770-888-6262 www.JordanDentistry.com
AUTO REPAIR/CAR CENTER Scott’s Auto Center.......Cover, 24, 25, 45 678-947-4040 www.scottsautocenter.net
Walton Orthodontics............................34 770-663-0955 www.drwalton.com
Johns Creek Mechanic........................37 706-622-5509 www.JohnsCreekMechanic.com
EDUCATION /INSTRUCTION Huntington Learning Center................33 770-205-2800 www.huntingtonlearningcenter.com
BOOKS/BOOK PUBLISHERS BookLogix Publishing Services, Inc........................................20 770-346-9979 www.booklogix.com
ELECTRICIAN Arc Angel Electric.................................... .............................Inside Back Cover, 45 770-889-9243 www.ArcAngelElectric.com
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS Carpet Dry Tech..................................15 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com
FLOWERS/GIFTS Funky Mountain Flowers & Gifts..........22 770-781-4616 www.FunkyMountain.com
CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE Victoria’s Children’s Boutique..............22 7770-888-7828 www.victoriaschildrenboutique.com
HAIR SALON Wendy Grosse OVO Salon.............................................7 678-469-4414
CHIROPRACTOR John Thomas, DC..........................31, 37 678-456-9122 www.chiropractorcumming.com
HOBBIES Atlanta Hobby......................................23 678-513-4450 www.alantahobby.com JEWELRY STORE Lance’s Jewelry............. Back Cover, 45 770-781-5500 www.lancesjewelry.com
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MASSAGE Massage Envy ....................................31 678-208-0680 Johns Creek 678-208-2888 Cumming www.MassageEnvy.com PET ADOPTION/RESCUE Humane Society of Forsyth County.....14 770-889-1365; 770-887-6480 www.forsythpets.org PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates Photography.......................35 770-617-7597 www.kimbatesphotoart.com Southern Kiwi Photography...................7 404-583-0659 www.SouthernKiwiPhoto.com PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Heart Specialists.....................27 678-679-6800; 770-622-1622 www.ahsmed.com Chad Levitt, MD .................................28 770-292-7000 www.ForsythRadiotherapy.com Georgia Plastic Surgery Consultants..29 678-208-6008 www.gpscmd.com Northside Hospital Forsyth....................1 770-844-3200 www.northside.com Perimeter North Family Medicine........31 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com
REAL ESTATE The Dinsmore Team... Inside Front Cover 770-712-7789 www.dinsmoreteam.com RESTAURANTS /FOOD SERVICES Bello Italian Restaurant........................19 770- 888-1998 www.BelloItalian.com Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine..............................17 678-208-0341 www.freshnfit.com Mia’s Pizza and Eats............................17 770-887-8874 www.miaspizzaandeats.com Norman’s Landing...............................17 770-886-0100 www.normanslanding.com REIKI THERAPY Luna by Liz..........................................29 678-648-6071 www.lunabyliz.com WEB HOSTING/DEVELOPMENT Hyperion Avenue........................ 48 678-926-9697 www.hyperionavenue.com
PRSRT STD MAIL US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 99 LILBURN, GA ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER
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