In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s boardcertified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road. We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
[ Contents December 2011 ]
Volume 9, Number 17
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24 AroundAbout-Cumming is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25% recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.
On the Cover: Jennifer Williams, Director Brain Balance Suwanee and Alex Hunt Cover photo: Katherine Carpin 770-378-3135
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The Journey to Balance
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Gizmos & Gadgets, Baubles & Bling…
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Health & Wellness
Julie Brennan is the Publisher of AroundAbout Cumming magazine. She is a native of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Julie may be reached at julie@marketcomplete.com
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The Brain Balance Program®
Take a look at a few of our favorite things! 32 33 34 34 35 36
Color Vision Deficiency Keeping Your Children Healthy Your Adrenal Glands May be to Blame! Healing from the Inside Out What’s New in Orthodontics? Lowering your Risk of Lung Cancer
Keep up-to-date with our community! www.aroundaboutcumming.com Join the AroundAbout Cumming fan page www.facebook.com/aroundaboutcumming MY FORSYTH
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Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/aroundcummingga
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DECEMBER 2011
Community
Lifestyle
Faith
13 The American Spirit of Giving
21 New Year, New Attitude, New Home
38 A Community Thanksgiving Feast!
14 Be Self-Assured… Others don’t care
22 Wanted: Warm Fuzzy Feelings, Inner Peace, and Good Mojo!
39 Restoring the Joy
23 Smile: You’re in the Picture!
41 The Country Preacher
In every issue
Pictures by Andrew Orenl
Carbonated Graphics
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Community News
10
Birthdays
12
Forsyth County News
15
Humane Society Pets for Adoption
40 Church Listings 42
Clubs & Organizations
44 School Information 47 Elected Officials DECEMBER 2011
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Publisher Julie Brennan julie@marketcomplete.com (678) 614-8583
EDITOR Jennifer Paire editor@myaroundaboutcumming.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melissa Barton melissa@myaroundaboutcumming.com
Market Director Kimberly Starr Kimberly@myaroundaboutcumming.com 770-313-6546
Graphic Design Pixelution Studios Josh Murtha & Samantha Angeli (678) 945-7301 info@pixelutionstudios.com www.pixelutionstudios.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates www.kimbatesphotoart.com
Technical Administrator Michael Barton 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.
events | portraits | photo journalism | fine art
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.
770.617.7595 by appointment | kbphotoart@comcast.net
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 2011.
My Forsyth www.myforsyth.com 5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 (p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511
Volume 9, Number 17 4
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[ by Julie Brennan}]
great family of contributing writers, I am forever grateful.
As we approach the end of the year, I would be remiss not to take a look at the year that soon will be a thing of the past. Everyone, I hope, will have time to say thank you to family, friends, acquaintances and strangers that, at one time or another, have helped you along the way. This year I lost a very special person in my life, while gaining a new one in the process. I’ve learned about the trials and tribulations of folks, just like you and me, who have dealt with the challenges the year has presented as opportunities to strive… and succeed. I’ve become more grateful to those who serve our nation – whether in the military or as members of our public services, our healthcare professionals, and teachers, among others. My heart fills with joy when I think of the lessons my mentors continue to teach me, and am grateful for the new friends that are part of my life. A monthly magazine is a work of love that takes time, energy and the ability to instill passion in those who collaborate to make is successful. The team of writers that are part of this publication is outstanding; individuals who have taken their expertise and share it with all of us. I, too, read every article and learn something new from each. To you, my
Other elements of our magazine include our designers, whose ability to take words and design a page that will attract a reader is magnificent; their artistry remarkable. Our photographers capture the essence of human beings and make it come alive across each page of the magazine. Moving along with the latest technology and media offerings, our social media director and IT experts are simply amazing. Our market director continues to amaze me with her ability to build relationships with everyone she meets and who eventually become part of our magazine family. Without the support of our advertisers, our magazine could not be mailed to you every month. Their valuable contributions provide the foundation that allows us to visit your homes every month. I hope you’ve had an opportunity to visit their businesses, use their services as needed, and keep our local businesses in business. As we gear up for a new year, and I continue to learn a valuable lesson every day, I wish you a beautiful season filled with love, joy and health. And as they say in my country, Feliz Navidad y
Prospero Año Nuevo!
Julie Josh ! Wishing you and yours the very best
Samantha Jennifer Kim
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Melissa Michael Kimberly Jack Becky
Ruth Jodi Brenda Parkey David
Neida Christine Shelly Maria Nancy
John Mira Kathy Ahmad Patrick DECEMBER 2011
Community News from Senator Murphy [ by Senator Jack Murphy, R-GA 27th District]
REGULATIONS, TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE? Do businesses need regulations? Absolutely. The question is when do regulations stop being a benefit to the public and become a burden on the free enterprise system?
In the world of the banking industry in Georgia, 71 of our community banks have failed this year.
In a recent survey, 42% of the businesses questioned said the number one problem they face is over regulation. In the world of the banking industry in Georgia, 71 of our community banks have failed this year and sadly, there are more to come.
Many government organizations, including Fanny Mae, were on a mission to make sure Americans bought houses, even if they could not afford them. When these subprime mortgages failed as the economy slowed, a vicious cycle began. Banks began to lose money and the federal government began to add more regulations. Now, as banks are closing, the government has chosen to clamp down harder on our free market activity as they attempt to solve the problem. This route has never worked. Banks are not causing the financial meltdown; therefore over regulating them will not solve the problem. Whatever you believe as to how we got into this recession, we must let the free market get us back out. We are a capitalist society, running a capitalist economy. Over regulation, whether on the state or federal level, will only make matters worse. I don’t want to see the rapid, no-holds-barred expansion like we saw in the 1990s and early 2000s, but we cannot prevent growth either. Bankers do not want to close their doors. They do not want to fail. Many bankers have lost their shirts over the past four years. In the free market, bankers of the next two decades will look at history to determine what went wrong. They have no desire to fall into the same pit twice. God bless you and your family, and the great State of Georgia.
Senator Jack Murphy (R-GA 27th District) may be reached at 404-6567127 or jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov.
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News Around Cumming And the winners are…. The winners of the Young Writers Contest, hosted by BookLogix and AroundAbout Cumming magazine were recently announced. The three winners are: Gabrielle Xie’s Attack of Cyberworld (age 8-9 category); Savannah McLeod’s Messages from the Breathless (age 10-13) and Hadassah Morris’ Rapunzel Retold (age 14-18). The books will be published by BookLogix Publishing Services as part of each winner’s $5000 publishing package prize.
Cornerstone School’s Eco-Eagles is back Cornerstone School’s Eco-Eagles, an after-school environmental enrichment program for 4th through 6th grade students, is back up and running for its second school year. Students learn about nature and the environment through games, reuse crafts, hikes on the school’s trails and presentations from local businesses and organizations. “Presentations allow children to make that real life connection to learning,” said Denise Carleton, who coordinates the group through her non-profit, Reaping Nature Educational Outreach Foundation. Reaping Nature is able to provide the Eco-Eagles program free of charge to the school and students through sponsorships from Olde Atlanta Recycling and Sanitation Solutions, two Forsyth County owned and operated businesses. To learn more about Reaping Nature’s programs, visit them online at www.reapingnature.org.
Labors Help Out M& M Labors recently donated much needed help to the Forsyth County Humane Society. The Cumming-based company provided their service to cut down several trees that needed to be removed at a home donated to the society. “The home was donated to the shelter recently and we are currently making the necessary upgrades to make it ready for sale,” explained Lance White, President of the Humane Society. “We are very grateful for their generous support.” M&M Labors offers free estimates on tree removal, and stump grinding work and may be reached 770-887-8843.
Kluttercutters Being asked by family members and friends to help clean out and organize their closets and pantries, two friends decided to take their expertise to others. Lisa Burts and Lori Knox, combined their natural talents and create Kluttercutters. The business handles all types of organization and uncluttering. “Trash it, keep it, store it or donate it, but it will be organized and clean when Kluttercutters is done,” asserts Burts. For more information contact Lisa at 770313-0095 or Lori at 678-314-5157. 8
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Atlanta Bariatrics Now in Cumming Atlanta Bariatrics and William H. Johnson, MD are pleased to announce they are now seeing patients in their new Cumming office, located at 1505 Northside Boulevard, Suite 4700 in the Northside Hospital Forsyth medical campus. Dr. Johnson attended medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina and completed his general surgery residency at the University of Florida. He then completed a fellowship at Duke University in advanced laparoscopy and Bariatric surgery. Dr. Johnson is certified through the National Board of Medical Examiners and is Board Certified by the American Board of Surgery. For more information about bariatric surgery, contact Dr. Johnson at Atlanta Bariatrics, 770.232.9252.
North Meets South, but It’s No Civil War Learning history used to mean reading copyheavy textbooks, highlighting in yellow, memorizing dates and dry facts, and then hoping you could remember what you highlighted long enough to take a test. Cram Stoppers and Go Social Studies Go! are two free educational websites that encourage learning as opposed to memorizing. Cram Stoppers, a test creation site for grades 8th through college, allows users to design their own tests, using study guide information and notes, and take tests as many times as needed. Go Social Studies Go!, a history resource site that went live in July 2011, is bursting at the seams with history/ social studies content, including engaging videos, colorful photos, and links that bring history to life. For more information on Cram Stoppers, please visit www.cramstoppers.com or contact Julie Wilson at info@cramstoppers. com. To learn more about Go Social Studies Go!, visit www.gosocialstudiesgo.com or email Ken Uhde at gohistorygo@gmail.com. DECEMBER 2011
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Christian Wallace Age 4 on December 6 Son of Jarrett and Susan Wallace
Happy Anniversary
Happy Birthday Marky! I love you, Tina
David & Gail Hill, December 5th, 24 years
Bufford & Helen Hill, December 7th, 70 years Eileen Rivera December 7
Birth Announcements
Matt Coutu
Cameron and Kelly Jones, of Cumming, proudly announce the birth of their daughter, Katelyn Ann. She was born on October 14th, 2011 at Gwinnett Medical. Katelyn weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long. Paternal grandparents are Billy and the late Gayle Jones of Lawrenceville. Maternal grandparents are Louis and Catherine Jardim of Cumming.
December 1
Wedding, Birthday and Anniversary Announcements are Free! E-mail to: editor@myaroundaboutcumming.com 10
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Forsyth County Government News 110 E. Main Street, Suite 210 • TV Forsyth — Comcast Channel 23 • www.forsythco.com Help Provide Holiday Meals to Local Seniors Make the 2011 holiday season brighter for Forsyth County home-bound senior citizens by taking part in the Home-Delivered Meal Holiday Gift Certificate Program. Meals purchased with a holiday gift certificate through Forsyth County Senior Services will be delivered through the Meals on Wheels program. Those interested in participating may choose to provide meals for a day, week, month or year. The cost is $3.41 for one meal, $17.05 for one week, $75.02 for one month, and $887 for the entire year. All gifts are tax-deductible. Checks should be made payable to Forsyth County Senior Services, Holiday Gift Certificate Program and may be mailed or delivered to the following address:
Forsyth County Fire Department’s Aerial’s House Toy Collection Underway The Forsyth County Fire Department is seeking the assistance of citizens in helping to make this holiday season special for children in need, through the department’s ninth annual Aerial’s House toy collection. “Through the years and thanks to the generous support of this community, the Aerial’s House toy collection has helped brighten the holiday season for many local children,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “It truly is something our Fire Department personnel look forward to each and every year.”
Forsyth County Senior Services 595 Dahlonega Highway | Cumming, GA 30040 All meals delivered from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day will include a special certificate to wish happy holidays from the meal provider. Senior Services has set a goal of delivering 4,000 meals to local senior citizens this holiday season. Call Forsyth County Senior Services at 770.781.2178 for more information.
New, unwrapped toys for Aerial’s House can be dropped off now at Forsyth County fire stations and the Fire Department Headquarters, located at 3520 Settingdown Road. To receive additional information regarding Aerial’s House, call Forsyth County Fire Department Headquarters at 770.781.2180 ext 0. For information regarding the distribution of toys collected through Aerial’s House, call the Forsyth County Family YMCA at 678.341.6337. Forsyth County Senior Services’ mission is to be the focal point where older adults gather for services and activities that respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence and encourage involvement in their community. For additional information, call Senior Services at 770.781.2178. 12
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Community
The American Spirit of Giving [ by Ruth Goode ] Alexis Charles-Henri de Tocqueville was only 26 years old when he came to America in 1831. Though he only spent nine months in the United States, his observations, readings, and discussions with Americans formed the basis of Democracy in America, a detailed study of American society and politics published in two volumes in 1835 and 1840. The observation he is most noted for was that Americans helped each other in times of need. He recognized and applauded the voluntary spirit that lives in America’s heart. He wrote: “I must say that I have seen Americans make great and real sacrifices to the public welfare; and have noticed a hundred instances in which they hardly ever failed to lend faithful support to one another.” Since then, America has long been defined by the powerful characteristic— our charitable spirit. It’s safe to say, no other country measures up to our willingness to help our neighbors in times of need.
make the right decision to maintain the charitable deduction so people like Nancy and her family have a fighting chance to get back on their feet again. After all, they’re willing to work for it. Our most vulnerable families need more help, not less in this difficult economic time. Your donation can mean the world to someone you most likely will never meet, but if they could, I’m sure they would say “thanks”.
Keep the charitable spirit alive! United Way of Forsyth County P.O. Box 1350 | Cumming, GA 30028 770-781-4110 | www.UnitedWayForsyth.com
Unfortunately, the White House and the recently formed Congressional “Super Committee” charged with addressing the federal deficit are considering changes to the charitable deduction. Bad move, ladies and gentlemen! Any limitation or reduction in federal tax incentives for charitable donations would result in a reduction in charitable giving. This would be at a historic time when the Census Bureau reports that 46.2 million Americans are living in poverty, and the unemployment rate is around 9%. Our giving spirit isn’t solely driven by tax incentives, but those incentives are a factor in how much we donate. Recent studies indicate that a cap on the deduction could result in charitable giving losses of up to $5.6 billion dollars a year. We need to help people get back on their feet, not take opportunities away from them!
Ruth Goode is the Executive Director of United Way Forsyth. She may be reached at 770-781-4110.
This past year, 45 students who attended classes at Lanier Technical College did so because of the financial assistance they received from United Way of Forsyth County. They made a commitment to change their lives through education. The scholarships enable students to continue and complete their education, to prepare them for jobs and careers which help them maintain their self-sufficiency and becoming tax paying citizens of our county. Here’s one such story which is an excerpt from a letter of need for a United Way scholarship: “I am applying for the United Way scholarship because I am in need of financial assistance. My husband has been out of work for 2 ½ years and after spending years at home taking care of our children, I am considered a displaced housewife and can’t find work. We are currently on food stamps and depend on family to help us make it through each day. My husband started attending Lanier Technical College to add to his employable skills. I came back to school to obtain a job in the health care field, something I always dreamed of doing. Every woman older than me that I talked with about my situation told me “go back to school”. So here I am along with my husband hoping to change our story and find our way back to becoming contributing members of our community once again. Any assistance would make a world of difference to me.” Nancy is pursuing her dream career in medical assisting and has a GPA of 3.649 and will graduate next year. At United Way, we are investing in human successes every day. So too, are many other nonprofits across the nation. Let’s hope our leaders in Congress DECEMBER 2011
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Community
Livin’
Be Self-Assured... Others don’t care
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[ by Christine M. Roberts]
recently returned from the OYou! (Oprah) conference at the Georgia World Congress Center; which I attended by myself. While standing in the atrium observing all the activity it seemed as if hundreds of people were passing by and a comfortable self-assured sensation came over me...there are some benefits to getting older. It was fun and interesting just observing people and enjoying all of the learning opportunities available. While contemplating all that was going on, my thoughts drifted back to the first time I went out in public alone. It was a restaurant at the mall on a break from that first job. At a ripe old age of 17 years, the insecurity was almost unbearable. Everyone in the diner was definitely staring at me wondering why I was there eating by myself; I was sure of that. Have you ever felt this way or do you still? Maybe there’s a class you want to take, a restaurant you want to try, a movie you are interested in seeing or some other event that you eagerly want to attend but none of your friends or family can or want to go. So often we stay home because of the concern about what people will think. We must be total goobers to be out by ourselves! Another aspect is that we are paranoid that people are talking about us. What I’ve discovered is that others really don’t care what we are doing. That may sound harsh but it’s true. If there is something you want to do, go for it, even if no one else wants to take part. When you do take that step and insecure emotions start to show themselves, just say to yourself “why do I think others care what I’m doing?” That question is quite humbling and works for me every time. What if we did our best to take charge of what makes us joyful or at least seek out some new adventures even if we have to go it alone? Maybe life could be a bit more fulfilling? Let’s be self-assured and stop worrying about what other people think and do some of the things that make us happy? They really don’t care anyway.
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 14
La Vida Local Treasuring the Hunt
[ by Shelly Kent ]
I lost my dear friends Kristin and Dave to an accident recently. Assembling a pile of old photographs to send Kristin’s family made me realize how many wonderful memories we’d created together “treasure hunting” at thrift stores during our college years. I’ve hung on to many of those treasures, as had she. We hadn’t taken a thrift store jaunt in some time, but I realize that those hunts were some of my favorite times with her. The gleam in her eyes and excitement in her voice made every find seem like an extravagant treasure. I’m going to pick up the tradition with my daughter because she seems to have picked up that gene from me and it’s easy to say “yes” to her where her exciting find generally cost three bucks. It’s also a good way to show her how to recycle her own clothes and toys as she outgrows them. As of late, thrift stores seem to have become every-man’s land and are no longer stigmatized as a place for economically challenged families or college students to shop. In fact, in my own recent visits to area resale shops, I’ve struck up conversations with women who looked like they’d just stepped out of a fashion plate and they’ve all told me the same thing, they piece their ensembles together from various resale shops for a fraction of retail prices. It makes sense. Someone buys a special occasion outfit (especially for children!) and then donates or resells it after wearing it once. It’s especially fun to see something that triggers a childhood memory, like a pattern on a set of dishes or a candy jar just like Great-Grandma used to always keep conveniently stocked for the kids. Touches of nostalgia, items we can repurpose for a project, true treasure hunts for valuable antiquities, fun or seasonal décor, or a “new” outfit or piece of jewelry…the ways to enjoy resale shopping are endless! It’s worth noting that while many thrift stores operate with not-for-profit statuses, some are forprofit. Goodwill Industries, which uses proceeds to support vocations for people with disabilities, and The Humane Society of Forsyth County, which operates a no-kill shelter, are not-forprofit organizations. Some local thrift stores are the work of local entrepreneurs. Many privately owned resale shops accept public donations but are unable to issue a tax receipt, some purchase selected items outright from the public, and some stock their stores with things they’ve hand-selected from [ Continued on page 31 ]
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Community Calendar An Old Fashioned Christmas at the Farm Date: Sunday, December 11 (rain date Dec 18) Time: 11:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Location: 1768 Newt Green Road, Cumming Information: Holiday fun for the whole family. Free parking and admission. “Sleigh” rides, pony rides, petting zoo, plate lunches, face painting, cake walk, raffle and a whole lot more. And a visit from Santa. Contact 770-8865419 or wrcahess@comcast.net for details. Proceeds to benefit Save the Horses (www.savethehorses.com).
Northside Hospital Forsyth Celebration of Lights Date: Saturday, December 3, 2011 Time: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Location: 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming Information: Bring your family and friends and enjoy entertainment from local groups and schools, photos with Santa Claus and many other activities for the kids. WSBTV anchor Fred Blankenship will serve as emcee. Contact Northside Hospital Foundation at 404-851-8389 for information about purchasing a light in honor or memory of someone you love. Lights on the tree represent those who have been affected by cancer. Free Seminar for Heartburn Sufferers Date: Tuesday, December 6 Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Location: 1400 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming Information: The Heartburn Treatment Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth is hosting a free community seminar for anyone affected by heartburn or GERD or is currently taking medication to manage symptoms. Participants will learn about what causes GERD; the most common complaints from GERD sufferers including heartburn, chest pain and regurgitation; as well as less frequent or atypical symptoms. Information about overthe-counter medications and other available treatments also will be provided. Registration is not required. For more information, call Lynne Murray, RN, MSN, at 770292-2397. 16
“Here We Come A-Caroling” Date: Tuesday, December 13 Time: 8:00 p.m. Location: Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Information: Playhouse Singers Ensemble Holiday Presentation is a choral celebration of the magic of the holidays featuring many of your holiday favorites and more. Tickets can be purchased online at www. playhousecumming.com.
Christmas Classics featuring North GA Chamber Symphony, Inc. Date: Tuesday, December 20 Time: 8:00 p.m. Location: Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming Information: This year’s LCS’ production of “Christmas Classics” show will be a return to our much requested classical/traditional genre. Artists include WDUN’s Bill Wilson and Ms. Lily Davenport, Christian Fine Arts of Forsyth, Knight Song, Elise Wilson, Jeanie Lipscomb and Jeanne Luke, and Chris Nero. Tickets can be purchased online at www.playhousecumming.com.
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Wishing You Happy Holidays!
from
Don’t Forget Personalized Gifts! Puzzles
Mouse Pads Blankets
Tote Bags
Sweatshirts Coasters
Near
(770)889-FROG (3764) 400N@BigFrog.com w w w. B i g F r o g. c o m / C u m m i n g 1070 Market Place Blvd, Cumming GA 30041
DECEMBER 2011
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{RestaurantGUIDE}
> Forsyth Foodie Revival of the ‘Shroom Many years ago, I was a regular at the original Mellow Mushroom in the tri-county plaza shopping center. I ate my fair share of pizzas, split many calzones and could throw back a basket of pretzels with the best of them. So boy was I excited when my eye caught the psychedelic tent at Flavors of Forsyth last May. The ‘Shroom was coming back! Making my pilgrimage there shortly after it opened, I realized the menu is no longer just pizzas, calzones and pretzels…it is now so much more. Their expanded menu of munchies, salads, deli hoagies, grilled hoagies and gourmet pizzas leaves you asking the waiter to “give you a few more minutes”. They even have gluten free options now. For meat lovers, try the Mighty Meaty pizza. This gourmet pie
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lives up to its name with juicy pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, ham and applewood smoked bacon piled high on their spring water sourdough bread. If you prefer to keep your arteries clear, I recommend the Kosmic Karma pizza – a red sauce based pie with sundried tomatoes, spinach, feta and mozzarella cheeses and roma tomatoes, drizzled with pesto sauce on top. For munchies, try the spinach artichoke dip; it’s very creamy but not overly cheesy. And if you want to go the salad route, always order it with the Esperanza dressing. I have never been able to find a dressing at the grocery store that comes close to the creamy flavor of this restaurant’s signature dressing. A very large selection of beers is
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also on hand at the bar. This new and improved pizzeria is no longer just “the ‘Shroom” it has grown up into Mellow Mushroom and I for one am glad to have it back!
Mellow Mushroom
The Avenue Forsyth 410 Peachtree Parkway Suite 200 Cumming, GA 30041 770.888.8885 www.mellowmushroom.com
DECEMBER 2011
Southeast Vino
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Lifestyle
Ten Reasons to List Your Home during the Holidays [ by Marie Dinsmore ] Homebuyers need to purchase homes all year long, so there might be some advantages to placing homes on the market during the holiday season. Some of these benefits include: 1. People who look at properties during the holidays are serious buyers and are more ready to make a decision. 2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays, so property has less competition. 3. Houses “show better” when decorated for the holidays with the wonderful light and festive colors associated with the season. 4. Buyers are more emotional during the holidays and often base their decision on the warmth and good feeling they receive when viewing your house. 5. Buyers have more time to look for a house during the holidays because they have designated time off from work to purchase a home. 6. Many people want to buy before the end of the year for financial and tax reasons. 7. 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. 8 You may restrict showings during your own personal family events and still take advantage of your spruced up and decorated “show ready” property. 9 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. 10. By selling now you have an opportunity to buy during the spring, when more properties are on the market.
Marie Dinsmore may be reached at 770-712-7789 or Marie@DinsmoreTeam.com. 20
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Lifestyle New Year, New Attitude, New Home [ by Patti & Curt Gosch ]
Enjoy the merriment of the season with friends and family! When you finally start to un-decorate, use this time with a fresh eye pointed at your surroundings. As we pack away our holiday treasures, the magic need not disappear along with the tinsel and tree. You can create year-round appeal by taking cues from the decorations heading to the basement. Some of these solutions may call for a bit of handy work but most don’t require deep pockets. All inspirations can easily be swapped out as the season changes or mood strikes. Just as we vow to update to better ourselves, let’s update and better our surroundings! Some tricks and trends to consider: • Pillow Toss Nothing perks up a drab sofa or chair more quickly than a pillow…or two or three. These little packages deliver a wallop of pleasing geometry, color and texture that is disproportionate to their size. Refresh the look you have by layering pillows of different shapes and sizes into your seats. • Double Duty Throws Don’t forget to toss a bright throw into the mix during these cold winter months—it’s an opportunity to spread additional color over your perches along with some warmth. • Refreshingly simple Your home’s transitional spaces get the most foot traffic but their design doesn’t often reflect their prime location. How about rolling out the carpet for style in a hallway with a cushy new runner? Or, if you need a big splurge, replace the entire area rug for an instant room rebirth! • Power of Paint Coating one room or even a single wall in a vibrant and compelling color will breathe new life into your home. Popular trends include sleek and glossy surfaces and vibrant colors, combined with elegant and classy gray, white,
golden and silver tones. Soothing and elegant—who doesn’t want that in the New Year? • Light Up Your Life A big part of the holiday season’s appeal is unexpected lighted décor as well as the tree in the corner. Translate that charm to the everyday by using portable lamps to illuminate any remaining dark or dreary areas in your house. The point is to ease your tasks and also create a more uplifting atmosphere with both upward and downward lighting. As with all decorating, often you can benefit from consulting with an experienced interior designer. They can enhance your 2012 style by adding the unexpected chic of a professional. Happy holidays to all and a happy and blessed New Year! Outrageous Interiors offers a beautiful mix of home furnishings and accessories with complimentary design services. OI has been serving metro-Atlanta for over 23 years with stores in Marietta (East Cobb), Kennesaw, Alpharetta and Suwanee. Owned by Patti and Kurt Gosch, Outrageous Interiors offers a beautiful mix of home furnishings and accessories with complimentary design services. They have been serving metro-Atlanta for over 23 years with stores in Marietta (East Cobb), Kennesaw, Alpharetta and Suwanee. Visit www. outrageousinteriors.com for store hours and directions
...creating beautiful spaces Holiday gifts for e New holiday décor arriving
veryone on your li
st!
daily!
www. outrageousinteriors.com
DECEMBER 2011
EAST COBB :: 770-509-2627
SUWANEE :: 770-831-4723
KENNESAW :: 770-426-5800
ALPHARET TA :: 770-754-4443
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Lifestyle
When you make your million, join the right club, or drive the right car… THAT’S when you’ll finally be happy! Shew! Keeping up with the Jones’s is simply exhausting. My goodness, I should have been a size 2 from the all the “keeping up” I was doing.
her t o m d e rm a c r w o Div seeks gs, n i 2 l e f e o f nd y a z , z e fu ac ! e p inner od mojo go
One day it all came crashing down. I lost my 16 year marriage, my “big house”, and perhaps even a little of my mind. I began a new search for happiness and I can tell you this for sure. I didn’t find it in serial dating, new clothes, fancy restaurants in faraway places, my supper cool flower shop, or even (stay with me here and don’t judge me on this next one) my kids. The reality is that no one and no one thing is responsible for my happiness. In my unprofessional opinion, happiness can only be truly found from within.
[ by Brenda Dickey ] Everybody wants it, some people have it… then loose it, and others seem to just be born with it. Nevertheless, it seems the search for happiness is a never ending journey! I suppose the definition of happiness is defined differently for each person, but for me, it is a feeling of inner peace even during the most trying times. That little voice that says… “this too shall pass” or “every little thing is gonna be alright” and you still have a smile in your heart.
Acknowledge and forgive yourself for the messes you’ve made (this was a very long process for me), take joy in the simple things like watching your babies sleep or the beauty of a sunrise, live and eat healthy, thank God whether its in a church, or floating down the river. Stop expecting others to make you happy, and get organized; if it’s not working, make changes. One of my favorite quotes is “If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.” I’m a pleaser by nature, but at 40 years old I have found that happiness is a choice. The less I live pleasing other people, the more time and effort I can put into changing my world for the better, and the more happiness I have to share with my babies, and the friends and family that I love so much. I wish you well on this journey…go find your own sparkle!
We all begin our journey at a young age, though we are often given a false sense of what happiness truly is. If you look like this, wear that, or live here… THEN you’ll be happy! If you marry this man, you’re a member of that church, you make the team, or have the right grades… you’ll be happy!
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Brenda Dickey is the proud mother of two. She is the owner of Funky Mountain Flowers and Gifts. She may be reached at (770) 781-4616.
DECEMBER 2011
Lifestyle
The eBooks Explosion: Are You Selling an eBook?
Smile:
You’re in the Picture!
[ by Ahmad Meradji]
[ by Kaylene Fister ]
Over the past few days some of my clients have ordered Christmas cards using images from their photo shoots, making me realize it’s coming up on that time of year - very quickly. Soon, people all over the USA will be gathering with friends and family for Thanksgiving, with Christmas and other holiday season celebrations occurring around the world soon after. What are you going to do to record this year’s memories? Here are a few tips for taking great group photos.
So maybe reading a book on a computer-like device, instead of feeling the smooth paper as you turn the pages, isn’t for you. But even if you don’t personally like reading eBooks, if you’re an author, you need to make sure you’re selling an eBook!
One of the hardest things you’ll face when photographing groups is to make sure everyone has their eyes open and is looking at the camera. I learned a simple trick from photographer Scott Kelby ask the whole group to close their eyes and open them on your count: “3, 2, 1 - open!” and then wait one extra count before taking the shot. It works like a charm! The extra count allows the subjects to relax and avoids having wide-eyed, freaked-out-looking people in your photos.
What is an eBook? eBooks are digital editions of print books. They are designed to be compatible with a variety of devices and give users the ability to change settings such as font size. eBooks are not meant to look exactly like the print edition of a book – fancy fonts may be converted to standard styles, and images resized. eBooks do not have page numbers, as they will vary in length from the print edition, so electronic links replace page numbers in the Table of Contents.
If you are working with a large group, point out to them that if they can’t see the lens of your camera, they won’t be in the photo. It’s amazing how many people apparently forget this and suddenly start shuffling around to make sure they have a clear view of your lens. In the northern hemisphere we’ll likely be indoors for our holiday parties and odds are you’ll need to use a flash. Avoid using mirrors and windows as backdrops, unless you like the look of an allencompassing reflection flare. Built-in flashes seem to be designed to make everyone look like Casper the Friendly Ghost. Simply fold a tissue and place it over the flash to soften the light, making your subjects look warmer and lessening harsh shadows. Most cameras have a red-eye reduction feature, but you can help prevent this little nasty by adding as much light as you can to the room. One last tip; Turning on all the lights shrinks your smile and have fun! subjects’ pupils - and every little If you’re grumpy and thing helps! getting frustrated, no-one will want to smile. Give them a reason to be happy about looking at you.
The publishing industry has seen an explosion in the eBooks market. This year, Amazon reported that for every 100 print books sold, 105 Kindle books were sold. USA Today reported that in 2010, 20 million people read eBooks.
There are two major file types for eBooks: ePub and Mobi. ePub is a universal type that works on most devices, including Barnes & Noble’s Nook and Apple’s iPad. Mobi works on Amazon’s Kindle and the Mobipocket reader. Some sites assist authors in doing their own eBook conversion. But professional conversion may be needed if your book has lots of images or complex formatting. DRM, or Digital Rights Management, protects an eBook file from being copied once it is purchased. Not all eBook files have DRM on them after conversion. DRM can be added when a file is uploaded to one of the major retailers, such as Amazon. Why publish an eBook? eBooks are not only easy to distribute, they allow for higher revenue potential for an author. Royalty percentages are high (up to 70%) as long as an eBook’s price falls within retailers’ requirements. If you’ve had eBook conversion that provides you with the 2 major file formats, your book will be available for all eReader devices in addition to home computers, laptops, and even some cell phones.
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
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. DECEMBER 2011
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The Journey to
Balance
W
hen 11-year old Alex Hunt took a bow after his first piano recital, the celebration of his accomplishment was dynamic, rewarding and a long time coming. “Our family’s journey to health began in 2005, when our then five year old son was diagnosed with sensory processing disorder,” explains Alex’s mom, Jana Hunt. Alex, she adds, was a happy child for the most part. “But that ray of sunshine would disappear sometimes when he would have a teary meltdown over something rather small like a balloon escaping or some frustration that was making him unsettled. He was inconsolable for a long time. We could not go to movies because the pain from loud noises was intolerable for him. His fine motor skills were affected also. He had troubles with buttons and anything that needed manipulating. He did not like anything that took balance like scooters, or bicycles or that type of thing. He loved music, but the piano was frustrating for 24
Brain Balance of Suwanee 780 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. #400 Suwanee GA 30024 | (770) 614-4790 Brain Balance of North Fulton 30 East Crossville Road #150 Roswell, GA 30075 | (770) 650-8010 Brain Balance of Peachtree City 357 Highway 74 North #5 Peachtree City, GA 30269 (770) 631-3033
him as his hands just would not do what his brain wanted them to. There was also the inability to keep still. We decided after talking to his kindergarten teacher and the psychologist who tested him that I would home-school him. It was like teaching a moving target. He could not stay in a chair, always had something in his hand to play with and it was a challenge for him to pay attention. The psychologist also found that Alex had a very high IQ, but his inability to MY FORSYTH
be still and pay attention did not allow that to shine through.” Looking for ways to help Alex with his condition, the family attended a presentation by Dr. Robert Melillo and learned about a program called Brain Balance. “We called Brain Balance Suwannee and signed up for a lecture. By the time it was over, I knew we had found the right place for Alex. I had done a lot of research and wanted to do as much as we could in a natural way. The DECEMBER 2011
compelling evidence that Dr. Melillo described fit our beliefs, desires and Alex. So we immediately signed Alex up.” Hunt states.
Brain Balance Executive Director, Dr. Peter Scire to learn more about the program. This meeting gave her a new direction for fulfilling her passion of helping children.
The Work of Brain Balance The Brain Balance Program® is an individualized and comprehensive approach to helping children with neurobehavioral and learning difficulties. This nonmedical program uses a multi-modal approach to address a foundational issues called Functional Disconnection Syndrome. The founder Dr. Robert Melillo is an internationally known lecturer, author, educator, researcher and clinician in the areas of neurology, rehabilitation, neuro-psychology and neurobehavioral disorders in children. He’s also an expert in nutrition with more than 20 years of clinical experience.
“The fundamentals behind the program made so much sense that I wanted to be a part of this cutting edge program myself and I also wanted to enroll my own son.” Two weeks later Dr. Peter Scire, the Executive Director of the three Atlanta centers, asked her to become a part of the team. “What guided me to the place I’m in now was a much greater power than myself. However, when you put your heart, mind, and energy into making a change things do happen! I want every child we have in our program to feel successful, strong, and confident enough to seek the plan that was set for them. I want them to see and feel the success stories I have the privilege to hear every day.” Williams knows first-hand how Brain Balance can help children. “As the director, I see functional changes happening for children on a regular basis and have witnessed my own son being able to maintain his academic skills at his appropriate grade level with a much higher level of confidence. It is so exciting to see the children make functional progress. They begin enjoying childhood experiences without anxiety such as school dances or being able to ride their bike, participating in scouts or sports for the very first time!” Williams explains.
As the Brain Balance of Suwanee Center Director, Jennifer Callahan Williams, is able to use her previous experience as a special education teacher and her personal experience with the program to support the children and families she works with in the center. She has completed courses in Diagnosis and Treatment of Neurobehavioral Disorders of Childhood by Dr. Robert Melillo with the Carrick Institute. She also continues her professional development by attending neurology conferences and seminars on clinical nutrition. She can relate to the parents she works with, the student’s struggles that are seen in the center, and the teacher’s of these students. Jennifer grew up in Gwinnett County, was a teacher in the county. “I feel an obligation as a former special education teacher to bring the hemispheric concepts of the Brain Balance program to the teachers of the students we work with. If we work as a team we can make a difference.” She began teaching for Gwinnett County Schools in the Emotional Behavioral Disorders program then moved to the Autism Program for K-5th grade students. After a few years of teaching experience, she began her own business to begin early identification and earlier intervention for children with developmental delays,” Williams adds. In the process of developing her business, Williams approached the NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
The rest of Alex’s story is music to those who love him. Alex credits Ms. Jennifer with always making sure both hands are on the piano. “Sometimes the things that seem the darkest are blessings in disguise. Our journey to health may not have occurred if our son had not been diagnosed with sensory processing issues. The things we learned from changing our diets and from Brain Balance have changed us all,” Hunt explains. Call the center closest to you for a comprehensive evaluation to find out if your child may be suffering with a Functional Disconnection Syndrome. Centers are located in Suwanee, North Fulton and Peachtree City. AROUNDABOUT — CUMMING
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Gift Guide Gizmos & Gadgets, Baubles & Bling… These are a few of our favorite things! The music is cranking, the decorations are up, and the weather keeps getting cooler… it must be time for that most joyous season of all. Take a look at some of the items that made our list of favorite gifts for the season.
Electric Trucks and Helicopters For children of all ages! The new Traxxas all electric Slash race truck has been voted the Truck of the year and has received the best Innovation award From RC car Action. The Slash is all you would expect, tough, fast (up to 80 MPH), fun, and yes, available in several models including 2 and 4-wheel drive! Ready to run starting at $179.99 The new Force helicopter battling system is not that cheap throwaway heli you saw at the mall. Instead sophisticated electronics are designed to give you an out of the box air-toair battling experience. The Force FHX is an ultra-lightweight, battle-hardened heli perfect for out-maneuvering opponents in tight quarters. Its self-stabilizing characteristics and mil-spec gyro stabilization system keep you rock steady and in complete control, even if you’re a rookie. Starting at $79.99 and available in several colors. Atlanta Hobby | 678-513-4450 | www.atlantahobby.com
Shopping Got You Puzzled? Old School Apparel Company During the mid to late ‘60s, there were elementary schools at Matt, Midway, Big Creek, Friendship, Ducktown, Chestatee and Cumming. Basketball teams from each school competed during the winter months before capping off the season with the county championship tournament, usually held in March of each year. These T-shirts celebrate and remind us of days gone by. Jay Wallace www.oldschoolapparelcompany.com
Pictures, slogans, and all that is you—or the person you are buying for—can be printed on coasters, bags, t-shirts, bottle bags, and more. Just take your ideas to Big Frog. It’s a big leap forward in fun and unique gifts. Stone Coasters are $24.99 for a set of 4 (available in Square or Round); T-shirts start at $15.99; Tote bags start at $14.99; Wine Bottle Bags are $14.99; Puzzles are $15.99. Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More 770-889-3764 www.bigfrog.com/Cumming
Jabra Bluetooth Headsets The latest in Bluetooth technology, this headset integrates completely with I-Phone Siri and Smartphone Software. Starts at $39.99 Sprint Store by Nex Generation at Brannon Crossing 770-205-9008 www.nextel.com
Good Karma Christmas To decorate your home or as a gift, this unique arrangement features curly willow, an assortment of evergreens, holly berries and pinecones. This arrangement will last well through the holiday season! Available all season long! $32. Funky Flowers and Gifts 770-781-4616 www.funkymountain.com
Holiday Dress Ceramic Santa Plate & Mug For that special young girl this elegant Susanne Lively velvet and taffeta holiday dress is sure to bring a bit of sparkle to her eyes. The dress has a black velvet bodice with a traditional red taffeta holiday plaid skirt. Perfect for holiday parties and beautiful portraits. $181.00. Ceramic Santa plate with matching mug, perfect for leaving Santa cookies and hot chocolate. Also, get Santa to sign one of the pieces when he visits Victoria’s Children’s Boutique on Saturday, December 3, 1:00-5:00 PM. Plate $9.00, cup $14.00. Victoria’s Children’s Boutique | 770-888-7828 | www.victoriaschildrensboutique.com 26
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Gift Guide Kawai KG-3C Grand Piano Karl Paulnack said “Music is one of the ways we make sense of our lives, one of the ways in which we express feelings when we have no words, a way for us to understand things with our hearts when we cannot with our minds.” A beautiful and versatile instrument, the piano lets you create wonderful music. Take an additional $1,000.00 off this already half price special offer from Dave’s Piano. Cost: $8,997.50. Dave’s Pianos | 770-887-8850 | www.davespiano.com
Silk and Shea Bar Pamper your skin with the Silk and Shea Bar. A blend of berries and flowers, with top notes of Strawberries, Bilberries, Black Currant, Bulgarian Rose, Jasmine and Caramel, rounding off with a warm, seductive blend of Ylang-Ylang, Sandalwood, Almond and Praline make this a treat for the skin. This exclusive edition soap made just for Market 334 is blended with Tussah Silk Fibers in addition to Shea Butter to make a must have gift! $6 each. Market 334 678-367-1615 www.facebook/Market334
Animasques Designs made from actual animal photographs beautifully printed on glossy metal with a floating frame. Unique and beautiful pieces for all to enjoy. Sizes vary. 14” x 14” is $150.00. Margie K. Carroll Photography www.margiekcarroll.com
Rutilated Quartz with Diamonds Pendant
Chamilia Bracelets Featuring luscious colors and unique designs the Chamilia line of beads and bracelets allows for each individual to create their own design. Whether celebrating a special occasion or favorite memories, there are beads for every reason and season. Cost of beads and bracelets vary. Lance’s Jewelry 770-781-5500 www.lancesjewelry.com
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This 14K Yellow Gold Rutilated Quartz with Diamond Pendant is a sparkling beauty and part of the beautiful pieces available exclusively at Gems in Art. Peruse through a wide range of exquisite jewelry at various price points. Gems in Art 770-844-8005
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Prime Beef for Parties and Gifts The Wilkes Tradition of Suwanee sells only the best USDA Prime and Black Angus USDA Choice cuts of meat. When preparing a meal for friends and family as you celebrate the season, go a cut above the rest and pick up the best at The Wilkes Tradition in Suwanee. Great meat and sauce gift boxes are available too! The Wilkes Tradition in Suwanee also offers great recipes, in case you are looking for something a little different. The Wilkes Tradition of Suwanee 678-546-6093 www.thewilkestradition.com
DECEMBER 2011
From insurance and accounting to plumbing and business connections, take a look at the offers from the members of The Networking Social. North Georgia Accounting Your accounting partner, collaborator, and friend. 770-888-7700 Becky Brown www.ngacinc.com
Avertagging Eliminating the barriers so that ALL businesses can connect. 877-225-9937 / Jon Ringler and Kay Wolfe www.advertagging.com Mobile Website for $150 exp 12/31/2011
For every 1 hour of Quick Books services used, receive 15 minutes FREE! Expires 12/31/2011
Extreme Fuel Treatment Fuel efficiency systems to improve gas mileage. 888-707-5878 Suzanne Graff www.dieselgasadditive.com/ Buy 4 get 2 FREE exp. 12/31/2011 Looking for distributors call for details.
Growing Your Business through the Power of Social Networking! 770.274.9057 Holly Truman www.on-siteteam.com
Minds Eye Design Search Engine Friendly Web Design
You create the dreams, we’ll help you capture the memories. 770.883.7644 / Jerry Morris www.ontimephotos.com
770-990-3782 Matt Haff www.mindseyewebdesign.net
Text jm1 to 90210 for special offers.
DECEMBER 2011
On-Site Team
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g providin g n i k r o etw er Social N ce to know oth ut an you a ch usinesses, find o , ess nity b in busin s r commu e h t o support ofit ways to e about non-pr d meet r an o learn m he area, t n i s n tio organiza nds! new frie cial rkingSo o w t e N /The ok.com o b e c a f www.
Ignite Turning energy into income.
$5 off a purchase of $25 or more … valid Nov 26th – Dec 9th 2011
706.974.6990 Brian Hay http://bnbnrg.igniteinc.biz/
Plumbing Service The Rite Way! Residential • Commercial
678-947-1627 Ray Sokolowsky
Auto, Home, Commercial, and Life. 678.807.9263 | Lee Dawkins www.LeeDawkins.com
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Licensed and Insured wwww.plumbritega.com
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Community
[ Continued from page 14 ]
resale outlets. Generally, these resale stores vet their selections more carefully than non-profit resale shops and their goods are priced slightly higher than a non-profit thrift stores. Both business models both exceptional value to their customers. If you’re jonesing for garage sale season, want to pass a day hunting with a friend, or even wish to purge your own closets through donation or resale, check out these local shops and start your own tradition with a friend or family member.
Humane Society of Forsyth County (a No Kill Shelter) Thrift Store 168 Tri-County Plaza (770) 886-5806
The Pier (Thrift and Consign) 5185 Browns Bridge Rd. (678) 455-7437
Abba House 6800 Dahlonega Hwy. (678) 208-2000
No Longer Bound (Opening soon) 315 Dahlonega Hwy. (678) 679-1172Â
Hand-Me-Rounds Thrift Shop
Family Haven
102 Buford Dam Rd. 770-316-4612
433 Canton Rd. (770) 844-0842
Goodwill Industries
American Threads (Vintage and New)
127 Dahlonega St (678) 455-3147
410 Peachtree Pkwy. #150 (770) 888-0808
Becca Consign and Design
Kid to Kid Resale Store
108 Mary Alice Park Road (770) 781-9511
535 Lakeland Plaza (770) 888-8500
DECEMBER 2011
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HeaLth & Wellness
Color Vision Deficiency [ by Dr. Mira Sivan ] Color blindness is not a form of blindness at all, but a deficiency in the way you see color. With this vision problem, you have difficulty distinguishing certain colors, such as blue and yellow or red and green. Color blindness (or, more accurately, color vision deficiency) is an inherited condition that affects males more frequently than females. According to Prevent Blindness America, an estimated eight percent of males and less than one percent of females have color vision problems. Every person suffering from color vision deficiency has the same dream: to see the world as everyone else can and be able to name colors correctly. Color correcting lenses claim to make this dream come true. The System of Lenses Enhancing Color Perception How does it work? It’s actually very simple. You just use a tinted lens in one of your eyes, usually in your non dominant eye, and that’s it. In this case both eyes actually see different colors and because of that the brain can extract some other information out of certain colors. This works for all types of color blindness (protanopia, deuteranopia, tritanopia) in the whole range of
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severities, with one exception. If you suffer from complete color blindness (achromatopsia) there is currently no systems which can give you back color vision. The most important fact you should know is that the lenses cannot be worn for driving! If you come into dim light situations, like a tunnel, you might have some problems with judgment of distance or motion which isn’t safe for driving. Color vision deficiency is treatable. Consult with your eye care specialist to assess how this system of lenses might help you.
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Dr. Mira Sivan is an optometrist located at Vickery Village in Cumming, She may be reached at 678-648-5185.
DECEMBER 2011
HeaLth & Wellness
Keeping your children healthy A practice that strives to provide the highest quality of care for your children is of utmost importance to parents. Finding a practice that does this while encouraging interaction and feedback from parents is uncommon. Since the late 1990s, Alpharetta Pediatrics has been serving families following this medical philosophy. Laura M. Bleekrode, MD and Susan G. Traxler, MD strive every day to provide this type of exceptional care. Along with Bree Leathers, the nurse practitioner, they have a combined total of 12 children and they understand the importance of a personal connection between the parents and the doctor. The physicians make every effort to have an open line of communication with all current and future patients. Special services such as “meet the doctor” sessions are available to new or expecting parents and those looking for a new provider. Alpharetta Pediatrics believes in the importance of routine child care and the safety and effectiveness of appropriate vaccinations. However, in order to meet the needs of all their families an alternate immunization schedule is always an option for those who wish to follow a different routine. Supporting each family in a personal way is very important to everyone at Alpharetta Pediatrics. As a small practice with two physicians and one nurse practitioner each patient can be treated as an individual, not a number. Everyone at Alpharetta Pediatrics takes the time to listen to concerns and questions from each parent. This provides the much needed support families often seek. “Communication is key to the success of any treatment, and we
DECEMBER 2011
build relationships with our patients and their parents who entrust us with their care” explains Dr. Laura Bleekrode. With two convenient locations, Alpharetta Pediatrics is truly the place “where KIDS are special (and parents too)!”
Meet the Doctors Laura M. Bleekrode, MD earned her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine in 1986. She completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Hospital in 1989. Dr. Bleekrode is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She and her husband, Kim, have eight children: Katie, Joey, Kevin, Mary Beth, John, Timmy, Brendan, and Clare. Susan G. Traxler, MD graduated from Davidson College in 1989 and received her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine in 2001. She completed her residency at the Medical College of Georgia in 2004. She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. Prior to starting her career in medicine, Dr. Traxler earned a Masters of Business Administration and a Masters of Arts in Arts Administration from Southern Methodist University. She and her husband, Malcolm, have two children: Lauren and Grant. Breanne Leathers, ARNP graduated from University of Mississippi medical center with a Masters in nursing in 2006. She received her doctorate in nursing from University of South Alabama in 2010. She and her husband Matt share 2 children, Graham and Laurel, both under the age of 2.
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Your Adrenal Glands may be to blame!
HeaLth & Wellness
Healing from the inside out [ by Marcia Steingraber, MS, L.Ac, Dipl.OM ] Acupuncture, a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is one of the oldest continuous systems of medicine dating back 4,000 years. It is the most commonly used system of healing in the world and one of the oldest forms of medicine that continues to remain active. It works by using the same pathways as the human body’s nervous system. Over the past 2000 years, physicians have experimented and increased the knowledge of how different points on the body produce different biological changes in the body. TCM is based on the belief that what happens to one part of the body affects every other part of the body. Similarly, organs and organ systems are viewed as interconnected structures that work together to keep the body functioning. For example, when an area of the body is disrupted for any reason the tissues surrounding the affected areas become toxic due to the muscles natural tendency to want to contract. After a period of time if the muscle does not relax, circulation is impeded. As a result, metabolic waste is trapped inside the muscle resulting in increase cellular death, while nutrients and blood cannot enter the muscle to feed the cells and clear away the waste piling up inside of the area. After a few days, the body’s immune system loses interest in cleaning the area because of its inability to get to the affected site. Acupuncture needles are hair thin and sterile but they are a foreign object. In 1995, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified acupuncture needles as medical instruments and assured their safety and effectiveness. Unlike hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are solid and hair-thin – not designed to cut the skin. They are also inserted to much more shallow levels than hypodermic needles, generally no more than 1/2 -inch to an inch. When inserted into the skin at the area with the motor point, or most electrically-charged area of the muscle, the needles send a signal to the brain to make the muscle relax. After the area has relaxed, the needles start their most important job – attracting the body’s immune system to the affected area for the clean up to begin. The result – blood carrying nutrients center the blood starved area revitalizing the tissues, metabolic waste is carried to the lymph via the circulation system, and dead cells are disposed of creating space. When the needles are reapplied the remaining cells become excited to multiply at an accelerated rate, filling in the injured area with fresh healthy tissue healing the body from the inside out. As with any form of treatment, patients should evaluate their progress after each acupuncture session. Some relief should be apparent in two or three sessions, or six to eight sessions for more pervasive conditions. Ask your practitioner questions about your treatment and improvement. If your response to treatment is not satisfactory, the practitioner may consider further diagnostic exams, modify the treatment plan, or refer to an appropriate practitioner. Marcia Steingraber, MS, L.Ac, Dipl.OM is a graduate of Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, San Diego campus with a Master’s of Science, Traditional Chinese Medicine degree. She may be reached at (404) 935-1534. 34
[ by John C. Thomas, DC ] Many of the patients I treat at my office suffer from symptoms such as fatigue, chronic pain, and even migraines; symptoms that can may be the cause of adrenal gland dysfunction. Adrenal glands make a hormone called cortisol, which sit atop your kidneys. Other hormones that are produced by adrenal glands include aldosterone and androgens. Adrenal glands are vital for optimal health. When adrenal glands are not working, it causes high levels of cortisol in the system. Cortisol is one of the main factors that regulate blood sugar level, not insulin. When cortisol is released by your adrenal glands, it’s accompanied by cytokines. Adrenal glands make cortisol in response to a stress—physical, chemical or emotional. As cortisol is released, the cytokines come out along with it and suppress your pituitary gland. There are common causes of elevated cortisol, including chronic stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, or hidden gut infections, such as parasites. Other causes of elevated levels of cortisol include blood sugar deregulation, high or low blood sugar, hypoglycemia, insulin resistance, and diabetes. The most important thing you can do to prevent adrenal fatigue is to make sure that your blood sugar levels are stable. So watch the sweets! Be aware that if your stress levels are high, your adrenal glands are going to pump hard, and cortisol levels are going to increase. Cytokine levels increase causing cause massive inflammation. High cortisol will sabotage your body’s attempt to combat the triggers that lead to various symptoms, such as migraines. If you are suffering with adrenal fatigue, you need to avoid refined sugar, alcohol and caffeine because these are high stressors to your immune system. And with the stress of the holiday season here, you have to find ways to manage your stress. Your adrenals will thank you. Dr. John C. Thomas is the clinic director of Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation in Cumming, GA. He specializes in helping people who suffer with chronic conditions such as Fibromyalgia, Peripheral Neuropathy, Chronic Neck & Low Back Pain, Migraine Headaches, Vertigo/Dizziness, and various Metabolic Conditions using a Neurological and Metabolic approach to care. He is a Chiropractor, Board Eligible Clinical Nutritionist, a Certified Fellow in Clinical Biomechanics of Posture, and a Certified Member of the Neuropathy Treatment Centers of America. He can be reached at 678-456-9122 or for more information visit www.AtlantaLifeChangingCare.com.
MY FORSYTH
DECEMBER 2011
HeaLth & Wellness
What’s new in orthodontics? [ by Dr. Michael Gorlovsky DMD, MS ] There are many advancements made in orthodontics each year, and one of the recent buzz words is T.A.D.’s, which stands for Temporary Anchorage Devices. You may hear about it the next time you go for an orthodontic evaluation, so let me tell you more about them now. A T.A.D. is a small pin that is used in the mouth in conjunction with braces to help move teeth more efficiently. The process of tooth movement is like a tug of war; trying to move front teeth backward will also move the back teeth forward, which may be undesired. A T.A.D. may be used to aid in anchorage to prevent undesired tooth movement and accomplish the desired results faster with less side effects. Although T.A.D.s have many similarities with dental implants, there are several important differences. A T.A.D. is only used on a temporary basis, as the name implies. Once its usefulness is exhausted, it can easily be removed; while a dental implant is usually placed on a permanent basis. A T.A.D. is much smaller in size than a dental implant, being only a few millimeters long. The best part about T.A.D.s is that there is no surgery involved and they are usually placed with only a strong topical anesthetic—there are no shots! The most common sensation our patients feel right after receiving a T.A.D. is some pressure between their teeth, which typically resolves very shortly. It’s important to remember that these devices are used temporarily and may even be relocated to another site in the mouth, as needed. Your orthodontist may plan to use these devices from the very beginning or they may be added later in the treatment process, when they are needed. These devices are nothing to fret about---they are small, used temporarily, and do not require any shots.
Dr. Michael Gorlovsky of Windermere Orthodontics may be reached at 770-888-1929. For more tips, follow them at www.facebook.com/WindermereOrthodontics.
DECEMBER 2011
Classes dedicated to revealing THE TRUTH about WHY you’re sick and
NOT GETTING BETTER
DYING TO KNOW, A SEARCH FOR THE CAUSE IF YOU, OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW STRUGGLES WITH Autoimmune Disease
Anxiety/Depression
Fibromyalgia
Thyroid Problems
Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetes
Digestive Problems
Fatigue/Insomnia
Leaky Gut
ADD/ADHD/Autism
Weight Gain
Chronic Pain
THEN THESES CLASSES ARE MEANT FOR YOU! Classes presented by Dr. John C. Thomas, Clinic Director of Discover Chiropractic Cumming. Using the metabolic and brain-based approach to managing chronic health conditions, Dr. Thomas has had patients experience full remission of symptoms. He has a Doctorate in Chiropractic, as well is Board Eligible in Clinical Nutrition and has advanced training in Functional Neurology.
To Register Call 678-456-9122 or at www.drthomasSeminars.com
MY FORSYTH
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HeaLth & Wellness
smoke, “ IfI’mI don’t not at risk for lung cancer. False. You CAN get lung cancer even if you never smoked.
”
Lowering Your Risk of Lung Cancer [ by Patti Owen, MN, RN, director of oncology services, Northside Hospital ] As one of the most frequently treated forms of cancer at Northside Hospital, lung cancer is the deadliest cancer in both men and women. Each year, more people die of the disease than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. Ironically, our biggest cancer killer is preventable. The more you know about lung cancer, the better chance you have against the disease and for maintaining the quality of life that is important to you. Why is lung cancer so serious? Lung cancer is hard to detect in its early stages. Symptoms usually don’t appear until the disease is advanced and, in many cases, it’s found only when the person undergoes an X-ray for another reason.
Early detection is key It’s important to maintain annual check-ups to stay healthy. Discuss any symptoms or health changes with your doctor and follow up on your doctor’s recommendations for screening and treatments to ensure you stay cancer free. Northside Hospital will be offering lung screening for eligible candidates at a discounted rate of $275. Are you 50 or over? Do you have a family history of smoking? Have you been exposed to asbestos? Do you have a 20 pack year history? If so, you may be a candidate. For information, please call Northside’s Lung Screening Program at (404) 300-2235.
Symptoms vary from person to person, but may include: • A persistent or intense cough • Coughing up blood or phlegm tinged with blood • Harsh sounds accompanying breathing • Recurrent lung problems such as bronchitis or pneumonia • Shortness of breath True or False? If I don’t smoke, I’m not at risk for lung cancer. False. You CAN get lung cancer even if you never smoked. Your lungs are the gateway for the air your body uses and anything that you breathe in can affect their health. Though smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, it is not the only one. Approximately 13 percent of lung cancer cases are caused by other culprits. • Radon – The second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., radon is a colorless and odorless gas that occurs naturally in soil. It can seep up into a home, office building or school through gaps or cracks in floors or walls. 36
• Industrial exposures – Working with certain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel and some petroleum products is especially dangerous. • Arsenic – High levels of arsenic, a poison used to kill weeds and pests, in drinking water may increase the risk of lung cancer. • Air pollution – In some cities, air pollution (air with traces of diesel exhaust, coal products and other industrial substances) may slightly increase the risk of lung cancer. • Family history – A family history of lung cancer may indicate a higher risk of developing the disease.
Georgia’s leader in cancer care As a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Centers Program, Northside offers a comprehensive treatment process that encompasses the entire cancer experience – from education, prevention and screening to diagnosis and treatment, research, support and survivorship. For more information, visit www.northside.com. .
Northside Hospital Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive Cumming, GA 30041-7659 770-844-3200 • www.northside.com
MY FORSYTH
DECEMBER 2011
THYROID PROBLEMS?
Do you suffer from thyroid symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, cold hands or feet, dryness of skin or scalp? (just to name a few) NEW information reveals why this happens and how to finally get relief!. Been treated without success? Been told to “live with it”? Tired of taking drugs that don’t fix the problem? Not getting any better? There IS NEW hope. If you’re tired of dealing with this problem and worried about it getting worse, call now to get free information explaining why you’re not better and how a new effective treatment is offering relief…without drugs.
Call 678-807-9855 or visit www.AtlantaThyroidRelief.com and find out how to get better…TODAY!
DECEMBER 2011
MY FORSYTH
37
faith
It’s the time of the year when many of us take that holiday trip to be with family for a holiday celebration. Celebrations are plenty and the joy of time spent with others is bountiful. For the past 11 years, Cumming First United Methodist Church has opened its doors for a Thanksgiving Dinner Community Celebration. In the true spirit of the holiday, all members of the community have been invited to celebrate with good food and good fellowship. There is no charge, and good is plentiful. Virginia Bell I loved volunteering while I was able. Now that I can’t physically work anymore, I love the warm, caring visit as my meal is delivered to me. I love being a part of this great church!
“When the celebration began, I believe we served about 200 meals,” recalls Lisa Burke, event coordinator. “Last year we served over 800 meals on site, with another 312 meals delivered to area residents who could not join us.” An army of volunteers helps put together this magnificent celebration, which includes turkey, stuffing, pies and desserts, mashed potatoes (real ones!) and vegetables.
“It is a true Thanksgiving meal,” adds Neida Streit,
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Rev. John Cromartie If you would like to Director of Communications at be a part of a very special CFUMC. “The folks that gather to Thanksgiving – this is the place! help out every year increases and If you want to see the love of God the time spent together is truly a in action – this is the place! If you blessing.” want to make new friends – this is the place! If you want to worship God and love one another Giving thanks for all the blessings – this is the place for we’ve received throughout the year you! should be a daily occurrence. It is nice
to know that for one day, at least, we mark our thanks with a celebration. “I live in a wonderful community full of people who love and care for each other. This community has been my home for most of my life, and I feel connected to so many people here. One of the great ways that I experience that connection each year is at the Community Thanksgiving Dinner,” states Stephani Satterfield, Servant Ministries Coordinator for CFUM. Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Highway | Cumming GA 30040 www.cfumc.com | 770.887.2900
MY FORSYTH
DECEMBER 2011
faith
The Waiting
[ by Nancy Johnson ]
One year, when I was young – I don’t remember how young, probably less than 10 – I was able to look into one of my Christmas presents. I spent a lot of time each December under our family Christmas tree. I would examine the gifts that were piled there, shaking them and dreaming of what might be inside. One day, I found out. Just one gift had a gap in the tape big enough to peek through the wrapping paper. I found out what it was! For a moment, I was thrilled. I celebrated the soon-to-be acquisition and congratulated myself on my keen powers of investigation. When the big day came, however, that gift was the last one I opened. What was the point? I already knew what was inside. Don’t ask me what it was now. I don’t remember. The thrill was gone. Not too long ago, I went shopping with my children. Our goal was Halloween candy which wasn’t hard to find. Just inside the door, aisles were loaded with the spooky necessities for the occasion. Just a few rows back, however, Christmas ornaments, decorations and toys lined just as many shelves. It was rather jarring. When the colors in my head are yellow and orange, it is disconcerting to see so much red and green. The images floating through my mind were of pumpkins, corn, hay bales and autumn foliage. So it was unsettling – even disappointing – to be faced with cheerful snowflakes and decorated evergreens. My friends and I all complain about the Christmas season starting early. Displays seem to go up when we are barely back to school. “Too soon!” we all say, grumbling at our retail establishments. But it isn’t their fault. We’re the ones buying the stuff. They keep their doors open by giving us what we will lay down our dollars for. We can hardly blame them when we get too much of a good thing. Over the years, we as a society have become less willing to wait. We live in a “get it now” world, and we are all to accustomed to having what we want when we want it. We wait for little. Holiday seasons are invoked long before the day has arrived. Children are inundated with toys and electronics well beyond occasions like birthdays and Christmas. Many of our families are deep in debt because saving up for the things we want is no longer even imaginable. Our impatience robs us of something very profound. When we have everything we want exactly when we want it, we lose the sense of the precious. We squander the invaluable quality that occasions bring when we have to wait for them, when we purchase them with long effort or hard-won patience. After a while, few things matter because everything is available. All can be ours and nothing is worth having. Even shining moments like Christmas become mundane and ordinary. Now that I’m older and I hope a little wiser, I prefer to wait. Let me stand on tiptoes reaching for some sparkling goal rather than have it sit in my lap, dull from too much handling. Let me bite my nails in anticipation rather than have nothing worth waiting for. I wish the same for you this season. May you have something to hope for, and may you not get it too soon. Joy will come with the waiting.
Restoring the Joy [ by Maria I. Morgan ]
Christmas. A time of joy and celebration. A cherished time with friends and loved ones. An opportunity to reflect on the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For some, this season will be anything but joyful. Joy has been replaced with sorrow due to loss. Loss Whether it is the loss of a loved one, or the loss of a job, the majority of us have experienced the pain left in its wake. We’re left with agonizing questions. Why did this happen? Is God punishing me? How can I handle this loss? How will it affect my family? Questions that may not be answered immediately. Questions that may be not be answered at all. With the celebration and family gatherings that go hand in hand with the Christmas season, our loss only seems to be magnified. How will we make it through? Help, Hope & Healing Where are we to turn when we’ve experienced a devastating loss? I’m reminded of the answer penned by King David, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God” (Psalm 42:11) The Lord truly is our source of strength. Upon careful reading of the Bible, we’re able to identify with believers from time past who have experienced extreme difficulty. They had feelings and emotions very similar to our own. They too had to deal with loss and grief. The book of Psalms shares the heart of David throughout the ups and downs of his life. Not only was he sincere in his praise for the Lord, but he was equally honest to share his doubts, fears and struggles. He was quick to call out to his God. Yet in spite of his distress, David’s faith remained in the goodness of his God to help him: “The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer” (Psalms 6:9). Although he was experiencing immense distress, David kept his gaze clearly focused on the One who gave him hope - God. We’re given a glimpse of amazing faith as David penned the following, “But I trusted in thee, O Lord: I said, Thou art my God” (Psalms 31:14). As a result of sin, bad things happen to good people. Loss and grief follow. Help and hope can be found in God. Consider the fact that Jesus Christ, Himself, suffered loss while on this sin-cursed earth. John 11:35 gives us a glimpse of the anguish He felt when his friend, Lazarus, died, “Jesus wept.” He was no stranger to suffering, and He promises to walk right beside us during our hour of need (Psalms 23:4). Our sovereign Creator can also bring healing. Know that the promise of Psalms 147:3 is a special gift for you, “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” Allowing Good from the Bad Tragedies and loss come to all of us. As difficult as it is to comprehend, life continues to go on. Ultimately, we have the opportunity to use the experience the Lord has allowed us to go through, to bring understanding and comfort to others during their time of need. Eventually, we’ll all experience some type of loss. We can decide, like [ Continued on page 43 ]
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. DECEMBER 2011
MY FORSYTH
Maria Morgan is a freelance writer and a Cumming resident. Visit her on the web @ www.mariaimorgan.blogspot.com 39
faith Non-Denominational
Eastgate Church 2820 Brookwood Road, Cumming 770-888-8852 Sunday Morning Worship Times: 9:00 & 11:00 am Wednesday Night services 7:00 pm Pastors: David & Robin Houtsma www.eastgatechurch.org
Baptist
Antioch Baptist Church 2465 Antioch Road (770) 887-6900 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Service: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. AWANA: Sunday at 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Pastor: Travis Bridgeman www.welcometoantioch.org Cumming Baptist Church 115 Church Street, (770) 205-6699 Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship service: 10:50 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Barry Crocker www.cummingbaptist.net First Baptist Cumming 1597 Sawnee Drive, (770) 887-2428 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups Wednesday: 6:15 p.m. AWANA Pastor: Dr. Bob Jolly www.firstbaptistcumming.org First Redeemer Church 2100 Peachtree Parkway, (678) 513-9400 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. – Contemporary Service (SFC) 10:30 a.m. – Blended Service (Auditorium) 9 & 10:45 a.m.; 6:30 p.m. Bible Fellowship Pastor, Dr. Richard G. Lee 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
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Cumming Area Houses of Worship North Lanier Baptist Church 829 Atlanta Highway, (770) 781-5433 Church service times: 8:30 a.m. Classic Worship Service 9:30 Bible Studies 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) 11 a.m. Spanish Worship Service (Student Center) Refuge Baptist Church 3525 Pilgrim Mill Road, (678) 807-7746 Sunday Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Service: 7 p.m. www.refugebaptistchurch.org
Episcopal
St. Columba’s Church 939 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, (770) 888-4464 Wednesday Services: 6:30 p.m. Saturdays Service: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Service: 7:45, 9 & 11:15 a.m. Rector: Father Tripp Norris Curate: Father Daron Vroon www.saintcolumba.net The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit 724 Pilgrim Mill Road, (770) 887-8190 Services: Thursdays 12 noon, Sundays 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Rector: Keith Oglesby www.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 MY FORSYTH
Other Churches
Castle Christian Church 3149 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (678) 648-5248 www.castlechristianchurch.com Sunday Worship: 10 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Senior Minister: Jason Rodenbeck jason@castlechristian.com Family By Faith Worship Center 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (Midway Elementary School), (678) 230-4800 Small Groups: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:30 a.m. Nursery available Pastor: Randy Grimes www.familybyfaith.com First Christian Church 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming, (770) 887-5542 Pastor Stan Percival www.fccga.org The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 510 Brannon Road, Cumming, GA (678) 455-5290 - Hall Phone Worship Service: 9 am, 11:30 am, and 2 pm Visitors Welcome Nursery available LifePoint Christian Church 5000 McGinnis Ferry Road, Alpharetta (678) 366-2797 Sunday Small Groups: 9 a.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: Chris Stovall www.lifepoint.org NewSong Community Church 433 Canton Road, Suite 306, Located across from Ingles, behind the National Guard in Building 300, (770) 888-5212 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Case Koolhaas www.newsongweb.org Rameshori Buddhist Center 130 Allen Road, Unit B Sandy Springs, 30328 , (404) 255-1585
Presbyterian
Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church 7620 Lanier Drive, (770) 887-6801 Sunday School all ages: 9:45 am Sunday Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: John S. Martin www.deercreekshores.org email: dcspres@comcast.net
DECEMBER 2011
faith The Country Preacher [ by David Hill ]
In 1789 George Washington called for the nation to express its gratitude for the victorious War of Independence and the ratification of the Constitution. President Washington set aside a time to offer Thanksgiving to God for His intervention and guidance. Since 2001 America has been at war with an enemy seeking to terrorize its citizens. Repeated victories over an evil that covets our prosperity and hates our faith makes it again appropriate for this nation to set aside a time to offer thanksgiving to God. Two hundred and twenty two years after George Washington’s Thanksgiving, the U.S. Constitution continues to provide an example of how men who reverence God can be guided to organize a free, democratic form of government for ruling its subjects with justice. America is the model emulated by every country seeking liberty for its people. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom He hath chosen for His own inheritance.” Psalm 33:12 There is another George Washington though not our nation’s president, who offered those whose lives he touched a humble Christian example of thanksgiving to God. George Washington Carver was born a slave the year before the War Between the States ended. He never knew his parents. His father had been killed in a logging accident a few weeks before his birth. George, along with his mother and sister, were kidnapped by bushwhackers. Moses Carver, who owned Washington’s parents before the war traded a $300 horse to get them back. The thieves took the horse but left only George who was sick with whooping cough. The Carvers who had no children raised George until the age of 10. A childless black couple, in Neosho, Missouri, 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
DECEMBER 2011
provided him a place to stay so he could attend school. He insisted on paying his own tuition by working odd jobs. “I would never allow anyone to give me money, no difference how badly I needed it. I wanted literally to earn my living.” When his brother, James, died of small pox he was left alone. Facing the difficulty of getting an education and rejected by a Kansas college because of his race, he wrote “God closed the first door that I might see one open with greater opportunities. This is often so when we are sorely disappointed.” Later he continued his education at Simpson College and then Iowa State, where he received a Masters degree and a prestigious faculty position. Carver was converted at the age of 10 when he “climbed into the loft, knelt down by a barrel of corn and prayed . . .” Asking forgiveness of sin and trusting Christ as his savior gave him a love for his fellow men and purpose for his life. “Oh how I wish the people would awake from their lethargy and come out soul and body for Christ.” “I want them to find Jesus, and make Him daily, hourly and momently part of themselves.” Carver’s contribution to agriculture and even medicine were unequaled. When asked of the secret of his success he said, “It is simple. It is found in the Bible”. “In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths.” Thanksgiving is a condition of the heart and is not based upon our circumstances or possessions. “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts . . . and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:15
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: Rev. Robert A. Frederick, Jr. 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 Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11 a.m. www.cfumcga.com (Child care available) Sunday Hispanic/Latino Worship: 12 noon Wednesday Communion Service: 12 noon Senior Pastor: Rev. John L. Cromartie, Jr. MY FORSYTH
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.
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
OTHER CHURCHES
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 41
Reference
[ Continued on page 43 ]
Cumming Area Clubs and Organizations
Business Networking
Business 400 Meeting: First Tuesday 5:30 — 7:30 p.m. Location: Lanier Tech College New Conference Center 7745 Majors Rd Cumming, GA 30041 Contact: (877) 581-1039 or ron@business400.com Information: The goal is to provide the 400 Community the opportunity to effectively network and to view the 400 corridor as a single economic engine. Go to www.Business400. com for events and me membership info. $5 for members and $15 for guests at the door. 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 Member Power Networking Lunch Meeting: Every Tuesday at 12 Noon 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 42
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. MY FORSYTH
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.piecemakersquiltguild.org
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: Imy Rach, imyrach@yahoo.com Information: A luncheon with program, many interest group activities every week (ladies, mens, couples and singles). Open to all women currently living in the county. Website: www.newcomersclubofforsyth.org DECEMBER 2011
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
Christmas Eve Services F, D H C – N ✦ C’ S – ✦ T C C – : ✦ C – : ✦ C E – ✦
Labrador Friends of the South, Inc. Location: PO Box 933, Cumming Contact: labfriendinfo@gmail.com Website: www.labradorfriends.com
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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
CUMMING FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin Meeting: Thursdays, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Location: Forsyth County Family Center 133 Samaritian Dr., Cumming, GA Information: Two support groups (family & peer) meet every Thurs. except the last when there is a speaker. Contact: namifdlga@gmail.com Website: www.namifdlga.org
C H C GA (770) 887-2900 ..
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
Restoring the Joy [ Continued from page 39] the Psalmist, to cry out to God, continue to trust in His sovereignty, and allow Him to lead us through our valley. By choosing the Lord’s help, and hope, we will find healing. We can be assured that, in time, He will give us the opportunity to comfort others. When we do, we allow good to come from the bad we’ve experienced. Have you recently gone through a heartbreaking loss that is making it difficult for you to celebrate Christmas? Snuggle up close to the Savior, accept His comfort and know His healing touch. Allow your loss to become a providential pathway that leads you closer to God, restores your joy, and reaches others with the message of help, hope and healing this Christmas season.
Open November 25
10am-8pm Location: Windermere & Highway 20 Bring this ad and get $5.00 off any tree!
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November 26 December 2 & 9 2pm-7pm
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Pre-Sales Accepted!
Visit tentstentstents.com/trees or amyjogloverphotography.com
For more information, call:
Kathy Umberger (678)776-3000
www.tentstentstents.com DECEMBER 2011
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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: Dave Culpepper dculpepper@forsyth.k12.ga.us Chestatee Elementary 6945 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville (770) 887-2341 Principal: Rebecca G. Johnson rjohnson@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: Charlley 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 44
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: Sharon Ericson sericson@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: Kristan Morse kmorse@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: Ron McAllister rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us
South Forsyth High 585 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 781-2264 Principal: Dr. Jason Branch jbranch@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
Forsyth Central High 520 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-8151 Principal: Rudy Hampton rhampton@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Cornerstone Schools 4888 Browns Bridge Road, (770) 205-8202 Principal: Elaine M. Francel www.cornerstonesch.com
Liberty Middle 7465 Wallace Tatum Road, (770) 781-4889 Principal: Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Covenant Christian Academy 6905 Post Road, (770) 674-2990 Headmaster: Johnathan Arnold www.covenantrams.com
Little Mill Middle 6800 Little Mill Road, (678) 965-5000 Principal: Connie McCrary cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Fideles Christian School 1390 Weber Industrial Drive, (770) 888-6705 Directors: Jonny and Ellen Whisenant www.fideles.net
North Forsyth Middle 3645 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 889-0743 Principal: Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Friendship Christian School 3160 Old Atlanta Road, (678)845-0418 Principal: Tom Davis www.friendshipchristianschool.us
Otwell Middle 605 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.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
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 MY FORSYTH
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 Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 888-4477 Head of School: Fr. Robert Presutti www.pinecrestacademy.com
DECEMBER 2011
Include your coupon here! Call 678.704.1930 for details.
DECEMBER 2011
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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 Post Office Box 1871 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Website: http://robwoodall.com
(770) 963-2420
State Government: Governor Nathan Deal (R) Website: www.gov.state.ga.us fax:
County Manager Doug Derrer
(770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
(770) 661-0999
(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
(404) 652-7003 (404) 652-7123
Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R) e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 781-5222
LT. Governor Casey Cagle Website: www.gov.state.ga.us
(404) 656-5030
Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R) e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 657-0810
Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax:
(770) 887-1960 (770) 205-0602
Darla Light, District 4 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-0678
Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov
(678) 341-6203 fax: (770) 844-5821
Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R) e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 889-0229
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
City of Cumming Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt Cumming City Hall 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040
Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov
(404) 657-8534
Cumming City Council Members: Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton
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 46
(770) 781-2010
City Administrator Gerald Blackburn
(770) 781-2010
City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net
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Reference Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 • AroundAbout — Cumming • (770) 615-3334 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 Main Number: 410 Pilgrim Mill Road Athletic Division 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
DECEMBER 2011
Forsyth County Marinas Habersham Marina 2200 Habersham Marina Road Port Royale Marina 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville
(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
(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 Authority (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) 205-4715
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
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Support the Advertisers that Support Your Community! ACCOUNTING North Georgia Accounting Consultants ……13 770-888-7700 www.ngacinc.com ACCUPUNCTURE Alpha Acupuncture………37 404-935-1534 www.alphaaccupuncture.com BOOKS/BOOK PUBLISHERS BookLogix Publishing Services, Inc...................5 770-346-9979 www.booklogix.com CARPET & UPHOLSTER Y CLEANERS Carpet Dry Tech.............37 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com CHIROPRACTOR Discover Chiropractic & Rehabilitation..............35, 37 678-456-9122 www.chiropractorcumming. com CHURCH/ SERVICES Cumming First United Methodist........................43 770-887-2900 www.cfumcga.org CUSTOM T-SHIRTS/GIFTS Big Frog………………17 770-889-3764 www.bigfrog.com/cumming
DENTISTS /ORTHODONTICS Jordan Dentistry………..32 770-888-6262 www.jordandentistry.com
HAIR SALON Wendy Grosse OVO Salon.....................38 678-469-4414
Windermere Orthodontics..Inside Front Cover 770-888-1929 www.orthodonticsatwindermere.com
HOBBIES/GIFTS Atlanta Hobby…….27 678-513-4450 www.atlantahobby.com
EDUCATION /INSTRUCTION Huntington Learning Center..11 770-205-2800 www.huntingtonlearningcenter.com
HOME CARE SERVICES Angels All Around…………35 678-807-7801 www.angelshomecareservice. com
ELECTRICAL SERVICES Arc Angel Electric…. Inside Back Cover 770-889-9243 www.arcangelectric.com www.arcangelsolar.com
INTERIOR DESIGN/HOME FURNISHINGS Outrageous Interiors………..21 770-831-4723 www.outrageousinteriors.com
EVENT/SANTA’S WORKSHOP Elf Central @ The Learning Experience….7 678-455-8614
JEWELRY STORE Gems in Art……………31 770-844-8005 www.gemsinart.com
EYE CARE/OPTOMETRIST For Your Eyes Only……….37 678-648-5185 www.FYEO-EyeCare.com
Lance’s Jewelry ........................ Back Cover, 44 770-781-5500 www.lancesjewelry.com
FREELANCE WRITER Shelly Kent.....................17 404-232-9898 GRAPHIC DESIGN Pixelution Studios..........48 678-945-7301
MAILING SERVICES/ PACKAGING The UPS Store, Betheview..5 770-888-1502 www.theupstorelocal.com/6159
PET ADOPTION/RESCUE Humane Society of Forsyth County...............15 770-889-1365; 770-887-6480 www.forsythpets.org PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates Photography.......4 770-617-7597 www.kimbatesphotoart.com Southern Kiwi Photography..7 404-583-0659 www.SouthernKiwiPhoto.com PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL SERVICES Alpharetta Pediatrics…….33 678-947-4588, 770-664-4460 www.alpharettapediatricsonline.com
Good Measure Meals.....19 404-815-7695 www.goodmeasuremeals.com Norman’s Landing……….20 770-886-0100 www.normanslanding.com WEB HOSTING/ DEVELOPMENT GhostNet, Inc.................... 22 770-852-2292 www.ghostnetinc.com WINE TASTING Southeast Vino…………..19 www.southeastvino.com
Northside Hospital Forsyth......1 770-844-3200 www.northside.com RESTAURANTS /FOOD SERVICES Baba’s Gyro & Kabob……17 770-888-8100, 678-996-9994 www.babasgyros.com Best Dang Bakery…….18 770-928-2378 www.bestdangbakeryaround. com ‘cue barbecue……….19 770-888-1048 www.cuebarbecue.com
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