Still the #1 place to celebrate a birthday A birthday. It’s a day we celebrate our entire lives. Northside would be proud to be part of your baby’s special day. No one is more prepared or has more experience. We’ll make the big day a celebration from day one. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
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On the Cover:
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A health Partnership Internal Medicine of Johns Creek
heAlth & wellness
Julie Brennan is the Publisher of My Forsyth magazine. She is a native of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Julie may be reached at julie@marketcomplete.com
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Sun Safety Every Six Months Clear Vision at all Distances Summertime…And the Living is Easy!
COmmunity 7 11
Under the Gold Dome The Five W’s of Sound Marketing Strategies
my hOme 14 Join the My Forsyth fan page www.facebook.com/myforsyth Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/myforsythmag 2
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Opening the Doors to the Home of Your Dreams Curb Food-bourne Illnesses with These Easy Steps
lifestyle 16 20 21 23
My Nutrition Just Go, It’ll Be Fun! It’s Storytime Knowing Your Options
fAith 38 38 39
Take a Stand Lessons Learned The Art of Disagreement
in every issue 8 12 13 36 40 42 47
Community News Forsyth County News Humane Society Pets for Adoption School Listing Church Listing Clubs & Organizations Elected Officials
Under Sheriff Ted Paxton’s leadership, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office has earned and received many honors for excellence, both on a state and national level. In addition, the Sheriff’s Office has become a model for agencies inside and outside the United States to visit and study. SHERIFF PAXTON IS: · Actively involved in the criminal justice profession and the community · Graduate of the National Sheriffs’ Institute in Longmont, Colorado · Graduate of the Southern Police Institute (University of Louisville, KY) · Immediate Past-President of the Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes SHERIFF PAXTON IS THE RECIPIENT OF: 2004 Governor’s Public Safety Award for Excellence in the field of law enforcement 2008 President’s Award from the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association 2009 Named the Sheriff of the Year by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association 2012 Named Alumni of the Year by Georgia State University’s Criminal Justice Department
Sheriff Ted Paxton is The Right Choice for Forsyth County!
www.Paxton2012.com
Paid for by Friends of Ted Paxton.
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PUBLISHER Julie Brennan julie@marketcomplete.com 678-614-8583
EDITOR Jennifer Paire editor@myforsyth.com
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Melissa Barton melissa@myforsyth.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN Josh Murtha 678-508-9271 jrmurtha@hotmail.com
GRAPHIC INTERN Chelsie Neiman Chelsie@9alchemies.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates www.kimbatesphotoart.com
Kaylene Fister www.southernkiwiphoto.com
TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATOR Michael Barton michael@myforsyth.com
PRINTING EBA Media Solutions 770-500-2075 | www.treb-atl.com The mission of My Forsyth magazine is to provide readers with a monthly publication with stories about their communities and its people. Our goal is to bring positive stories about Forsyth County. To businesses we provide a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, 21,500 copies of your community magazine are distributed via direct mail and throughout local businesses as part of our rack distribution. My Forsyth, a publication of Market Complete LLC, welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the Publisher/Editor. The Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. My Forsyth is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. ŠCopyright 2012. My Forsyth •www.myforsyth.com 5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 (p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511 4
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A Time to Visit
[ by Julie Brennan]
O
nce upon a time there was a precocious and outgoing young girl who would visit the homes near her house every afternoon, after her homework was completed and her grandmother gave the OK to leave the home for a few hours. She would also visit the school supply store across the street from her home, where stacks of papers, notebooks, maps, pencils, crayons and books would occupy her imagination as she talked with the store owner. There she learned to do long math by writing the prices of items being purchased on a piece of brown paper. The store owner taught her how to price items in a manner that was consistent and readable – penmanship was of utmost importance in the business. She learned the importance of being friendly and helpful to customers, always providing a smile and being courteous to everyone, even if they looked a bit unkempt. Some afternoons she would visit the lady who lived next door in one of the few two-story houses in town. They would watch TV and play board games – Battleship, UNO, Monopoly, Checkers and Trouble, to name a few. Despite their age difference, they would talk about so many things, including the woman’s youth, college days, and life in general. For a 12 year-old, that meant a lot! There were times when afternoon visits included time at the local drugstore, where the young girl learned about make-up and how ladies always looked for the colors that would make them look their very best. She learned to sit by the front door with the pharmacist’s wife, and talk to everyone that went by. From a simple “Hello” to deeper conversations about the latest episode of the 7:00 pm ‘novela’ (soap opera), there was always something to talk about. Time was a commodity back then, just as it is today. Perhaps what is a bit different is the priority of making the time to visit with friends and neighbors. Though she doesn’t live in the same place as in her youth, she still has the opportunity to visit. Every day, a cup of coffee and conversation is shared with her neighbor. It’s a routine that reminds her of her youth, of those who molded her life, and of the beauty of conversation. Her neighbor makes her day a better one, as if sharing a cup of coffee every day makes for a happier, simpler, and peaceful life. Perhaps you too will have a bit of time now and then to simply visit. 6
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NEWS FROM SENATOR MURPHY [ by Senator Jack Murphy, R-GA 27th District]
BUDGET 101
Voted 2012 Favorite Children’s Boutique
As I have said in many previous articles, the one thing the legislators of Georgia must do on an annual basis is pass a balanced budget. Let’s look at the procedure. “State of the State Budget Request” – The Governor must do this within five days of the start of session. “Green Door” – the Senate Committee must sit down and review the budget line item by line item and submit any suggested changes.
Our Governor’s role is unique in regards to the budget in three ways: 1. The Governor submits a revenue estimate. 2. He has veto power. 3. He has the ability to line item veto. “State Revenues” – the state of Georgia spends $40 million a day and currently has seven days in reserve funds. This is not much when you consider the possibility of a natural disaster. When adjusted for population growth, we have reduced our expenses back to 1994 spending levels. Over $2 billion has been cut from our budget over the past four years. Our state has done this while still maintaining a Triple AAA bond rating, one of only nine states to do so. I believe everyone reading this knows someone, including me, perhaps even you, who has had to cut back on their spending, whether personal or business. I hope this helps in understanding a little about the budgeting process. God bless you, our country, the state, and the United States.
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 Forsyth Virtual Fostering Now Available Want to help with the care of pets but don’t want to do it at your own home? You can do it virtually! The Humane Society of Forsyth County, A No-Kill Shelter, is pleased to announce their Virtual Foster Program. For $12 per day, you can help the shelter take care of a pet. For more information contact 770-887-6480. The shelter is also in need a few items. Take a look at the Needs List and consider helping. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Tall kitchen garbage bags (13 gal) White Copy Paper Industrial mop head refi lls Scoopable & Clay Cat litter �World’s Best Cat Litter (brand) Cat Attract Scoop-Free litter (refi ll for automatic litter scooper) Grooming clippers/shears Cardboard scratching boards, Cat toys, and brushes Cat Safety collars: Pink and Blue Paper towels, Toilet Paper Dishwasher detergent and dish washing liquid Natural Balance LID: Duck and Potato Dog Food Automatic Dishwasher soap Dog and Cat food - all types Wet kitten food Specialty dog food: Taste of the Wild / Bison and Potato, Natural Balance / Duck and Potato Disinfectant wipes (e.g., Clorox, Lysol) Antibacterial hand soap Easy walk harnesses / Premier collars HE Laundry Detergent
Gift Cards to stores such as WalMart, PetSmart, Rucker and others are also appreciated. Donations are tax deductible and can be dropped off at the Adoption Center located at 4440 Keith Bridge Rd or at the Thrift Store located at 168 Tri-county Plaza (both in Cumming).
Mia’s Summer Sensations The bounty of summer has inspired Mia’s Pizza and Eats to offer a Summer Menu. Mia’s has become increasingly passionate about Georgia’s food artisans - farmers, brewers, sausage and cheese makers - and they can’t pass up the opportunity to use their hand-tossed dough as a blank canvas from which to celebrate summer and to showcase the richness of our local harvest. Their Summer Menu is available the entire month of July and features, among others, The Queen, Mia’s version of the classic Margherita pizza, made with locally grown tomatoes, fresh basil, and fresh Buffalo mozzarella, and, The Georgian, a Southern take on the Hawaiian pizza, featuring a goat cheese cream sauce with layers of peach slices, bacon, caramelized Vidalia onions, and fresh basil. Mia’s Pizza and Eats is located at 911 Market Place Boulevard, Suite L, in Cumming. For specials, events, and offers, visit their Web site at www.MiasPizzaandEats. com. You can also find them on Facebook at www. Facebook.com/MiasPizzaandEats.
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Local Couple Named Duet of the Year Cumming residents, Travis and Alecia Bridgeman, a Southern Gospel duet known as “The Bridgemans,” were the winners of the 2012 Southeastern Southern Gospel Music Conference Duet of the Year award. The duet was recognized during the Second Annual Southeastern
2nd Annual Riverstone Runabout 5K Run/Walk slated for August 25 2nd Annual Riverstone Runabout 5K Run/Walk has selected the Lisa James’ family as the beneficiaries for its 2012 race. The race will take place on August 25, beginning at 8:00 a.m. According to race organizers, the event serves as an outreach to Cumming, Forsyth County
Southern Gospel Music Conference held in June at the Performing Arts Center in Valdosta, Georgia. The conference brought together Southern Gospel artists for two days of Gospel music, a golf tournament, a women’s conference with Gaither Homecoming artist, Ann Downing and the annual “Fan Awards”. The concerts featured “The Nelons”, “Ricky Atkinson and Compassion”, “Naomi and the Segos”, “Omega”, Ann Downing and Logan Smith. The Bridgemans have been singing Southern Gospel music for ten years, and have recorded four projects. They have finished in the top five for favorite Gospel artists in the Atlanta area for the last four years. Travis is the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cumming. For more information on The Bridgemans, visit www. TheBridgemans.com.
and North Georgia to bring awareness to melanoma and its limited treatment options and inspire others to always be their best while living life to its fullest. Participants may register online at www. riverstonerunabout.com/ or www. active.com/running/gainesville-ga/ riverstone-runabout-5k-1m-2012. All pre-registered applicants are guaranteed a T-shirt.
Norman Realties/Nicole Tucker, Streamline Networks, Wilco Printing, Beef O’Brady’s and Village Podiatry. New to this year’s race is the 1 mile Fun Run and a Kids Workshop from Home Depot. Contact 770-810-5483 or email organizers at riverstone.runabout@ gmail.com for more information.
Events sponsors to date include Chef Kern, Stars and Strikes, Paradise Boat Rentals, Fast Signs, North Georgia Lending, Papa John’s Pizza, Harry
New Grant Novel is now Available Brambleman, a novel by Jonathan Grant, is now available. Brambleman tells the story of down-and-out Atlanta writer Charlie Sherman, who is convinced by a mysterious stranger to finish a dead professor’s book about a crime that’s gone unpunished for decades. Author Jonathan Grant says the book will be controversial. “Many people don’t want to be reminded about Forsyth’s past—especially because, to many people, those events are the county’s defining characteristic—what made it what it is today.”
“Brambleman isn’t a dry documentary,” Grand adds. “It’s often wildly funny, with a heavy supernatural twist and a protagonist who often resorts to very non-heroic tactics and, along the way, doubts his sanity, motives, and who he’s actually working for.” The novel is an outgrowth of Grant’s work on his late father Donald L. Grant’s magnum opus, The Way It Was in the South: The Black Experience in Georgia (University of Georgia Press), named Georgia’s “Book of the Year” when it was published. For more information visit http://brambleman.com.
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The Five W’s of Sound Marketing Strategies [ by Bruce Longmore ] Anytime I wrote a paper in school I had to answer the “who, what, when, where, and why” questions. I learned those truly are the pressing questions people care about so I thought I’d share the five famous W’s as they relate to business marketing.
Who? When marketing in the community, the answer to who is YOU. I think one of the biggest mistakes a small business owner can make is tying him or herself up too long on the front line without hitting the pavement to expose products and services and drive traffic through the doors. You don’t need to go all “out-of-touch” like business owners profiled on popular television shows. But it is very easy for a small business owner to encounter the opposite problem and not remove themselves from the operation long enough to tend to extraneous matters that are important to the business, like marketing. What?
Reminders and incentives. I carry business cards, coupons, and menus with me everywhere I go. You should be a walking billboard without being obtrusive to people you meet. Offer an invitation and express value when someone asks you what you sell or do.
When?
All day, every day my friends! That’s right. Entrepreneurship is not a 9 to 5 job. Wear your logo or nametag when you stop at the grocery store or do your banking. Be “that sub guy” (as in my case) or whatever identity best suits your business.
Where? Everywhere. Create an Internet presence, drive a car wrapped screaming your message, run in your local print media, help out at community events, and set up shop at expos, business shows, and networking events. Pipe up as a solution in community meetings or volunteer venues. Be seen— everywhere. Why? People need repetition. They need to be reminded that you are there. They need prompters about how to use your business in other ways. For instance, people who regularly come to Lenny’s for a lunch meeting may be interested in having us cater their next business function. Help your customers think bigger, more often, and of someone else who might be interested in what you offer. Don’t be a stranger! If you are reading my articles or implementing any of these ideas, please tell me about them through MyForsyth or stop by either Lenny’s location and see what all the fuss is about! And by the way—what have you done to promote your business today?
Bruce Longmore is a Cumming entrepreneur. He may be reached at 404-574-3884 or Success@BruceLongmore. com. Along with his wife Donna, they are the owners of a Lenny’s Sub Shop in Cumming and in Alpharetta.
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Forsyth County Government News 110 e. main Street, Suite 210 • tv Forsyth — Comcast Channel 23 • www.forsythco.com County Annual Reports Now Available 2011 Forsyth County Annual Report Learn about your county government and recent projects and accomplishments by reading the 2011 Forsyth County Annual Report. Copies of the report can be picked up at the County Administration Building. 2011 Forsyth County Fire Department Annual Report Learn about your Fire Department’s divisions, facilities, apparatus and more by reading the 2011 Fire Department Annual Report. Copies of the report can be picked up at the County Administration Building, Public Safety Complex or any staffed fire station. Both reports can be viewed online at www.forsythco.com (look for the icon under ‘Special Features’ on the home page).
Voting Information for the July 31 General Primary and Non Partisan/Special Election The July 31 election includes the General Primary, the Non Partisan Election, and a Special Election to vote on the Regional Transportation Referendum. Early/Saturday/Advance Voting for the July 31 election is underway and will run through Friday, July 27. Forsyth County registered voters may cast their ballot during Early Voting (July 9 – July 21) at the Forsyth County Administration Building, located at 110 E. Main Street in Cumming. Early Voting (July 9 – July 21) will be open to all Forsyth County registered voters from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please note there is no Absentee, Early or Advance Voting the Monday prior to any election. The Forsyth County Administration Building at 110 E. Main Street will be open for voting on one Saturday for each election in 2012 in which there is a state or federal candidate on the ballot. This location will be open for voting during Early Voting for the July 31 General Primary and Non Partisan/Special Election on Saturday, July 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advance Voting (July 23 – July 27) will be open to all Forsyth County registered voters at five locations throughout the county with extended voting hours. Visit 12 | MY FORSYTH
www.forsythco.com for Advance Voting locations and hours. On Election Day, Tuesday, July 31, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters must go to their designated precinct location to vote on Election Day. Please note that due to changes in precincts (voting locations) and districts (redistricting) over the last year, it is highly possible your voting precinct and/ or district may have changed. Please verify your Election Day precinct at www. forsythco.com prior to heading out to vote. To receive more election information, call the Forsyth County Voter Registrations and Elections Office at 770.781.2118 ext. 9 or visit www.forsythco.com.
Forsyth County Offers Three Recycling Convenience Centers Forsyth County operates three recycling convenience centers for residents. The centers accept a variety of recyclables as well as bagged trash. Items accepted at all three centers for recycling include cardboard, paperboard, newspaper, magazines, phonebooks, office paper, junk mail, books, used clothing and shoes, used motor oil, used cooking oil, plastic (PETE #1 and HDPE #2), glass (brown, clear and green/blue), tin/steel cans, aluminum cans, all types of batteries, and scrap metal (such as car parts, lawn mowers, lawn equipment, pipes, tools and sinks). Most recycling is offered free of charge. There is a cost associated with recycling tires (accepted at the Coal Mountain Center only) and electronics (accepted at the Tolbert Street Center only). For disposal of bagged trash, there is a 50¢ per bag fee for customers who are also recycling; a $1 per bag for non-recycling customers; and a fee of $2 per bag for every bag over the 5 bag per day limit. The centers are open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are closed on Sundays and county holidays. Recycling Convenience Center Locations: Tolbert Street Center - 351 Tolbert Street, Cumming, 770.781.2176 Old Atlanta Center - 3678 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee, 770.205.3010 Coal Mountain Center - 3560 Settingdown Road, Cumming, 770.781.2071
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My Home
Calculating the Costs of Your First Home [ by Melanie Foley ] Welcome to the American Dream—buying a home of your own. There’s a lot to consider—especially affordability. Before you take the plunge, consider these financial factors as you plan to make a purchase. What factors affect how much you can afford? Prior to meeting with a mortgage broker, use an online calculator (available on many financial and real estate sites) to estimate the maximum home price or monthly mortgage you can afford based on these important factors: • • • • •
Your income and savings versus your expenses and debt Your credit score The type of mortgage you apply for Current interest rates The amount of your down payment
What factors affect the price of a home? Many factors—such as number of bedrooms, neighborhood, or acreage—can significantly increase costs. Consider the following: • Single Family Home vs. Condo: Single-family homes are usually more expensive than a condo in a multi-unit building, but you have greater control over their value and resale. Condos generally require less maintenance, although annual association fees that pay for maintenance can greatly vary in cost. • Square Footage: Bigger is considered better and therefore is more expensive. But layout can be equally important, in particular a well-designed floor plan that uses less space more efficiently. • Condition: “Fixer-uppers” may appear to be bargains, but proceed with extreme caution. Home improvement projects, especially in older structures, often have hidden—at times escalating—costs. • Street Location: Cul-de-sacs are the fi rst choice of families with young children, and come at the greatest premium. Busy, noisy main roads generally lower a property’s value, but can offer the best bargains. • School System: A reputable school system often boosts the price of homes in the district—a factor could affect resale value whether or not you have children. Once you determine the type, size and location of a home you can afford, establish a relationship with a recommended real estate agent who will listen to your wants and needs and show you only properties that you can afford. When you finally do make an offer, a typical real estate contract allows 30-60 days before closing for paperwork, financing, inspection and title search. Don’t forget to insure your new home When calculating the costs of purchasing a home, you should also consult with an insurance agent who will give you a quote on property and liability coverages to protect your new investment.
Melanie Foley is the Executive Vice President, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company. She may be reached at 678-513-1864. 14 | MY FORSYTH
Opening the Doors to the Home of
Your Dreams [ by Pam Wright ]
I have great news that I am excited to share with you: getting a mortgage is not as hard as you have heard! Rates are at a record low, and you have multiple mortgage options to obtain that home you have had your eyes on. By following a few simple steps, you can help the mortgage process go as smoothly as possible. Once an originator helps you find a mortgage (Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate, FHA, HARP, HARP 2) that will best suit you and your family’s needs, you will begin completing the proper paperwork. The single most important thing you can do to smooth the process is to provide all necessary paperwork when it is requested. If information is incorrect or incomplete, this can delay the process. If you took out a mortgage during the first half of the first decade, you may find yourself asking “why do they need this?” or “I have never provided this much paper before!” And you would be absolutely correct. But the pendulum has swung from far too lenient, to far too stringent underwriting. At some point it will settle out where it needs to be (and never should have departed from), but until then, I encourage you to simply understand we are in different times, and your loan officer and their team are doing everything they can to help you get your mortgage. The following is a quick look at some of the items that you will need in order to obtain a mortgage; this is not an inclusive list of everything that is needed; the mortgage originator may need more items from you: • Complete the application • Sign the application and disclosures • Provide the following documentation (and this is the bare minimum) Last 30 days of pay stubs 2010 & 2011 W-2s and signed tax returns Last 2 months bank statements and all assets statements (all pages) Copy of driver’s license Declaration page of homeowner’s insurance When the time comes to pursue a mortgage, do not be intimidated by the process. Instead, simply know the process has changed. Your mortgage originator is there to work for you, to fight for you, and to represent you. It just takes a little more effort than it used to, but the end result is definitely worth that effort!
Pam Wright is a Mortgage Loan Originator with over 30 years of experience. She may be reached at 404- 667-8424.
My Home
Curb Food-bourne Illnesses with These Easy Steps
[ by Shelly Kent ]
Who doesn’t occasionally find something lurking in the refrigerator with signs of age and odor unlike anything you recognize? Tap those organizational skills and apply them to your ice-box and pantry this summer for your family’s health. It is important to store your food properly, and vigilantly remember to throw out old, stale, or questionable food, especially when younger children help themselves to what’s in the fridge with little regard for expiration dates. TIPS TO KEEP YOUR FOOD ORGANIZED AND YOUR FAMILY SAFE: • KEEP A PERMANENT MARKER by the refrigerator. Note that while things like cheese, pre-packaged deli meats, and orange juice may have a “purchase by” date that expires weeks and even months from now, one the package is opened, the food has a very limited shelf life. Most food manufacturers recommend only 3 to 5 days for an opened bag of shredded cheese, and 7 to 10 days
for a carton of orange juice once you crack the seal. The lifespan on cold cuts is also shortened once the package is opened. Create a consistent system of either marking the package with the date it was opened, or the last date you can safely use the product. • MAKE GARBAGE DAY more than just the day to empty trash bins around the house. Take the opportunity weekly to purge your refrigerator, paying special attention to items you don’t use on a daily basis, like salad dressings or dips. • SNACKS AND CEREALS may have a longer shelf life when transferred to a re-sealable bag or dish. Clear storage containers will take the guesswork out of how much product remains to be used, which will make filling out the shopping list a snap. Similar types of containers lend to visual appeal and are also easy to organize and stack. The bonus? Their tight seals are ideal for keeping intruding inspects or vermin from raiding your food.
• NOT ALL PRODUCE should be stored under the same conditions. Educate yourself on what to refrigerate, wash, or unwrap prior to storing. Observe the way your grocery store stocks its fresh produce. For instance, asparagus is typically stored upright with the bases covered in cool water while tomatoes are left unrefrigerated. You can also print off a storage guide sheet from one of many reputable sites on the web (such as Consumer Reports) and tape it inside a kitchen cabinet for easy reference. Organization throughout the rest of the house may slide from time to time with little consequence, but having a proper system for food storage is essential to your family’s health, and one area that should not be overlooked. Shelly Kent is a freelance writer. She may be reached at 404-232-9898 or shellykent@comcast. net.
Always Tired? You’re Not Alone
Have you had trouble getting or staying asleep? Stress, work and schedules can make getting quality shuteye feel impossible. For more than 30 years, Northside Hospital has been helping sleep-deprived patients start to enjoy the benefits of slumber again; sleep improves memory, curbs weight gain and prevents disease. Our board-certified physicians work with you to develop a plan for effective treatment, so you can experience the rejuvenation and comfort from sleeping soundly.
Board certified physicians • 3 Convenient Locations Comfortable & Relaxing Settings • 30 years of experience
ATLANTA
FORSYTH
CHEROKEE
(404) 851-8135
(770) 844-3293
(770) 345-2568
View videos on sleep disorders at northside.com/sleep
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MY NUTRITION
[ by Julia Lott, M.S., R.D., L.D.]
Summer is finally here! You’ve worked so hard all year to maintain or lose weight and now is the time to show off all your hard work. Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine TM has an exciting new summer menu to help. We have created a four-week menu cycle so you can have your favorite healthy, seasonal meals multiple times during the summer. We have added more summer salads and new entrees with fresh local vegetables to continue to keep you on track with your weight loss goals all summer long. Another great thing about summer is the barbeques, festivals, and vacation. Social gatherings are so much fun! However, they can be detrimental to your waistline. I have a few tips that will help you get through the summer without gaining the weight back. If you’re going to a cook out, offer to bring something. That way you know there will be at least one thing there you can eat. Bring a summer salad, veggie platter, or fruit for dessert. When it’s time to eat... make fruits and vegetables half your plate. As far as beverages go, water is your best choice, not only because its calorie free, but also to make sure you stay properly hydrated during those hot summer days. Finally, vacation is a time to relax and rejuvenate as well as see new places. Sometimes it can be difficult to resist the urge to splurge. It’s important to make healthy food choices even when on vacation. When looking at menus, choose entrees that are described as “baked, grilled, broiled, steamed, poached, or roasted.” These entrees are more likely to be lower in fat and calories. I recommend when ordering entrees, to ask for sauces on the side, in order to control the quantity. Finally, never hesitate to ask how a food is prepared or what ingredients it contains.
Julia Lott has a Master of Science in Nutrition and a BBA in Marketing from Georgia State University. She enjoys creating meals that are both nutritious and delicious to health conscious individuals. She may be reached at 678-208-0341. 16 | MY FORSYTH
POINT TO POINT RACE DOWN PEACHTREE PARKWAY Johns Creek Parkway to Ronald Reagan
Race Location: Totally Running 405 Peachtree Pkwy #105 Cumming, GA 30041
Race start: 10K...7:30 am Fun Run...9:00 am Questions? 678-341-8032 or 770-633-5511 Sponsorship Opportunities Available! Contact Kim Hall at 404-769-4408 or kimhall2007@gmail.com Proceeds benefit
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The Bounty of Summer: Terrific Tomatoes ‘Tis the season…. Despite the record-breaking heat we’ve been dealing with this summer, gardens are still providing us with great vegetables – zucchini, squash, green beans, corn, and of course, tomatoes. Just like with any other vegetable, you either love tomatoes or you hate them. I love them! I can eat tomatoes straight from the vein (a little rinsing before I put it in my mouth, of course). I enjoy the traditional summer treat – tomato sandwich. Bread, mayonnaise, tomato slices, a little salt and pepper and my tummy rejoices!
Join the Forsyth Foodie on Facebook. www.Facebook.com/ MyForsythFoodie
Bruschetta is one of my favorite appetizers, and now that tomatoes are oh so fresh, restaurants that offer bruschetta have only to add a little garlic, basil, olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a delicious treat. I have tried the bruschetta at Bello Italian, Casa Nuova, Mia’s Pizza & Eats, Mia Ristorante, Giorgio’s, and many other Forsyth eateries. Truth be told, I like them all. My father used to make the best spaghetti sauce from his home-grown tomatoes. The sauce would cook slowly for hours, while my overly-anxious self could not wait to try it. In our home, it was a Sunday tradition – spaghetti and homemade sauce.
For me, tomatoes are just another reason why summer is simply fantastic! Enjoy the season of tomatoes… or any other vegetable that makes your tummy happy.
And of course there’s the southern delicacy known as Fried Green Tomatoes. Face it; done properly, this treat can really make your taste buds happy.
Mia Ristorante Italiano 2300 Bethelview Road, Suite 104, Cumming
And they are healthy too! Tomatoes are an outstanding source of lycopene, a carotenoid
Recipe
Bello Italian 101 Meadow Drive, Cumming Casa Nuova 5670 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta Giorgio’s 558 Lakeland Plaza, Cumming
Mia’s Pizza & Eats 911 Marketplace Blvd., Suite L, Cumming
Share your recipes and restaurant findings at www.facebook.com/MyForsythFoodie
Basic Tomato Bruschetta From Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking • 6 garlic cloves • 12 slices good, thick-crusted bread, ½ to ¾ inch thick, 3 to 4 inches wide • Extra virgin olive oil, fruity and young • Salt • Black Pepper, ground fresh • 8 fresh, ripe plum tomatoes • 8 to 12 fresh basil leaves
• • • • • • • • •
Preheat a broiler, or, even better, light a charcoal fire. Mash the garlic cloves with a heavy knife handle, crushing them just enough to split them and to loosen the peel, which you will remove and discard. Grill the bread to a golden brown on both sides. As the bread comes off the grill, while it is still hot, rub one side of each slice with the mashed garlic. Wash the tomatoes, split them in half lengthwise, and with the tip of a paring knife pick out all the seeds you can. Dice the tomatoes into ½ inch cubes. Wash the basil leaves, shake them thoroughly dry, and tear them into small pieces. Top the bread with the tomatoes, sprinkle with basil. Sprinkle with salt and a few grindings of pepper. Pour a thin stream of olive oil over each slice, enough to soak it lightly. Serve while still warm.
Yields 6 to 12 servings.
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pigment that has long been associated with the deep red color of many tomatoes. Researchers have recently found an important connection between lycopene, its antioxidant properties, and bone health. Intake of tomatoes has long been linked to heart health. Fresh tomatoes and tomato extracts have been shown to help lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. In addition, tomato extracts have been shown to help prevent unwanted clumping together (aggregation) of platelet cells in the blood - a factor that is especially important in lowering risk of heart problems like atherosclerosis.
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19
Lifestyle
Taking Care of Business, And Yourself! [ by Becky Brown ]
While vacation time continues, so does the need to run your business. Many business owners tell me they have not taken a vacation in years. I say “Why not?” I own my own business and I manage to take vacations. As a matter of fact I am writing this article from the beach! So why can some business owners take time away from their business and some cannot? The secret is learning how to ‘run your business’ instead of having your ‘business run you’. Here are some of the some of the ways to do this: • Set up systems • Train your employees • Use technology Systems are the first step to any business. Whether you are a one person enterprise or a multi-person enterprise, if you do not have systems set up, you will not have a smooth running operation. You should have a system for every process that is performed and it should be documented so that anyone that steps in can carry out each procedure with very little supervision. If you have a multi-person enterprise, the next step is to train everyone in your organization. This means training them not only to perform the work but also to work the systems. If everyone in your organization does not work the systems, you will not have a smooth operation. Also, cross-training is a good idea; if one person is out another can pick up and take over. The third and probably the most important step, especially if you are a one-man operation, is utilizing technology. There are so many different options available today to make remote computing possible, such as remote desktop and VPNs, among others. With these options you can remote in to your computer and access it from any wireless connection like I’m doing right now, from the beach. Of course, everyone by now has heard about ‘the Cloud’. Check out Microsoft Outlook 365 which is accessing your Outlook email, calendar, and contacts through the cloud. There are also online options for payroll processing so your employees can get paid while you are playing! These suggestions should help in getting you out of the office and on to your next adventure as I am off to mine. Signing off to go parasailing!
Becky Brown, CPA, is a QuickBooks Advanced Certified ProAdvisor and owner of NGAC, Inc. She may be reached at 770-888-7700.
20 | MY FORSYTH
Just Go, It’ll Be Fun! [ by Christine M. Roberts] It’s 5:00 the Friday before Memorial Day weekend and the last day of school. I’m sitting at my desk and have just finished a report that I am presenting to Executive Management next week. My brain is fried as I’ve scrambled to complete it on top of all the other responsibilities as Mom, Wife, Mentor, Room Mom, Writer, …oh gosh, like everyone else, the list goes on… I don’t want to think about it! Right now all I want to do is enter a vegetative state while I lie on the couch and watch HGTV. But there is a pool party in the neighborhood and our children are begging me to go…ughhhh that is the last thing I want to do! My husband being the smart guy that he is says, “Honey I’ll take them, you stay home and relax”. What an awesome man! But after they left the twinge of guilt set in and I said to myself “Just Go, It’ll be fun”. I really didn’t feel that way but figured if I said that enough than maybe I’d convince myself. So off I went to the party; it was like scenes out of a movie with Dad’s in belly flop contests, and the neighborhood coach as DJ with hysterical commentary, and the only thing missing was a Babe Ruth bar in the pool. I had a blast! Does this ever happen to you? There’s a party or event and it’s much easier to stay home never leaving our comfort zone. Maybe there are friends that you’d love to meet up with, an event to attend or activity and it never happens because it’s just too much trouble. Now if you are one of those people who are always up for a party and make things happen, God Bless you, please tell me your secret. For the rest of us, let’s set aside some time to specifically make plans and put them on the calendar. Contact those friends you haven’t seen, scan the magazines or perform a Google search for whatever it is you want to do and then schedule it. Just Go, It’ll Be Fun! Life is so much more interesting when we have things to look forward to today or in the future. Speaking of that gotta run to go make some plans, who knows maybe I’ll see you soon.
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
Lifestyle
Be Prepared - Not Just for Boy Scouts [ by Kaylene Fister ]
One of the things I most like to do is to photograph people doing their thing. People act differently when they are aware that a lens is pointed at them. It’s often difficult to get natural expressions and for the most part people will not allow you to see a less-than-perfect or a vulnerable side to them. These moments are usually that result in captivating photos, whether they are fun or thought-provoking.
of fi eld) to help blur the background, removing distractions from the image. Using Aperture Priority mode for this is a good idea and don’t forget to focus on the subject’s eyes.
Don’t get me wrong - I’m not suggesting you become a creepystalker-type! People don’t like that too much either. Simply be ready to catch the unexpected photo: Let your camera become a part of you, leave it turned on and take the lens cap off. And always put the lens cap in the same safe place to avoid losing it. I’ve lost two since I first picked up a camera and it’s never a happy thing.
Here are two examples of catching the subjects being themselves: father and son sharing a quiet moment and a boy waiting for his family photo shoot to start. In each case, they were aware I was in the area with a camera, but they didn’t realise they had my attention at that particular moment.
Using a zoom lens helps capture a genuinely candid moment. You have the ability to distance yourself from the subject, yet crop in closely on them. Make sure to use a low aperture (shallow depth
Posed photos are important and will always have their place, but I do enjoy photographing someone not on display - and then showing them how beautiful they are. Summer’s a great time for candid photos so get out there and take them! 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.
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21
The McAfee Family [ by W. Cliff Roberts]
On August 12, 2000, members of Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 1642 held a ceremony to mark the restoration of a small forgotten cemetery off Hopewell Road in northern Forsyth County. There are only six graves in this cemetery, all members of the McAfee family. Alexander McAfee was a farmer. He had moved his large family from the Ashville area of North Carolina to Forsyth County in the 1850’s. He and his wife Harriett had eight children. When the Civil War began, two of the McAfee sons joined Confederate regiments that were raised in Forsyth County. 21-yearold Charles A. McAfee joined Company I of the 22nd Georgia as a 1st Sergeant. 19-year-old George W. McAfee joined Company E of the 43rd Georgia as a private. The 22nd was dispatched to Virginia where they fought in Wright’s
22 | MY FORSYTH
Brigade in Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. Charles McAfee would be promoted to 2st Lieutenant on Dec. 27, 1861. George’s company, the 43rd Georgia, defended the Cumberland Gap before being dispatched to the defense of Vicksburg in May 1863. George served as a musician in the regimental band. Both McAfee boys were killed on the same day in separate battles. Charles McAfee died on the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. On July 2, 1863, his battalion advanced from Seminary Ridge across open ground to attack Federal soldiers who were holding a stone wall on Cemetery Ridge. Wright’s Battalion charged 14 canons and succeeded in capturing them, only to be driven from the position by a Yankee counter-attack. 181 of the 412 Confederates in the battalion, including Charles McAfee were casualties. George McAfee survived the May 16th Battle of Champion Hill when his 43rd Georgia Regiment
took heavy casualties covering the retreat of the Confederate Army back to Vicksburg. The 43rd was so decimated from the battle that they were placed in the southern-most part of the Vicksburg line. Beginning on June 16th, they endured heavy bombardment from Federal artillery. George McAfee died in the Vicksburg trenches on July 2, 1863, two days before the city and its defenders would surrender. Both McAfee boys are buried in this small cemetery, as well as their parents, a brother and niece. Despite being 66 years old and having recently buried two sons, Alexander McAfee joined the Cherokee Legion home guard and served with the State Guards in the fall of 1863. Today, the cemetery, which sits near the entrance to the Hopewell Manor neighborhood, remains under the care of Camp 1642. The Confederate Battle Flag is flown here in memory of these three Confederate soldiers, two of whom died while serving under this flag.
Lifestyle
Knowing Your Options: Brain Injuries and Insurance [ by Steven K. Leibel] One of the more tragic consequences of any accident is brain injury. As a former member of the Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund Commission, I am aware of the devastating impact of brain injuries. A brain injury may occur from several types of trauma and can differ in severity from mild to moderate to severe. A typical cause of brain injury is the striking of the head on a fixed object like the pillar post of a car, or by falling onto a hard surface. However some brain trauma can be caused by forward and backward motion in a whiplash type accident where the brain hits the skull and becomes damaged.
Steven Leibel is an award winning GA Super Lawyer, with 30 years of trial experience. He may be reached through his firm, The Law Offices of Steven Leibel, at 706-867-7575.
Mild head trauma may show up as forgetfulness and anxiousness. This can also lead to depression. In some cases head trauma from whiplash can damage the brain stalk where the pituitary and hypothalamus glands are located. More severe head trauma can lead to swelling in the brain, resulting in the placement of shunts to remove fluid so that the brain does not suffer as much damage. These major traumas can lead to the loss of short-term and long-term memory. Major brain injuries often result in more significant cognitive deficits such as delayed speech as well as full and partial facial paralysis. With severe brain injuries, both the IQ and personality of a person may be significantly altered. With determination and good medical care recovery can be made. Unfortunately, many of our clients are woefully underinsured. They will never be able to receive necessary treatment and rehabilitation for a complete recovery. In Georgia, an injured person is responsible for their own medical treatment unless they have adequate medical pay or health insurance to cover their loss. Quite often people with catastrophic injuries are unable to recover enough money from the person at fault because he/ she only has minimum limits coverage. It is of the utmost importance to have adequate insurance in case you or a loved one was to sustain a traumatic injury. Many types of insurance are available. I recommend adequate add on uninsured motorist coverage - which piggybacks or supplements someone else’s policy limits and medical pay coverage. I suggest that all readers take the opportunity to research and explore your options for substantial insurance that will fully protect both you and your families. WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
23
A Health
Partnership
Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek Samantha B. Benson, MD
Tiffany E. Edwards, MD
Karon Dunn, FNP-C
Combining a high standard of care in a warm, efficient office environment, makes Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek one of the finest and most trusted internal medicine groups in North Georgia. Julie Michelitch. FNP-C
Michelle Hall, FNP-C 24 | MY FORSYTH
“Our team of physicians and healthcare providers understand the importance that communication and education play in the providerpatient relationship,” explains Dr. Samantha Benson, who founded Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek (IMAJC) in 2005. “We encourage our patients to be active participants in their healthcare plan, and do our best to provide care in every sense of the word.” Dr. Benson has been chosen as Top Doctor for two consecutive years (2011, 2012) by Atlanta Magazine.
What is Internal Medicine? Internal medicine is the branch and specialty of medicine concerning the diagnosis and nonsurgical treatment of diseases in adults, especially of internal organs. Doctors of internal medicine, also called “internists”, are required to have included in their medical schooling and postgraduate training at least three years dedicated to learning how to prevent, diagnose, and treat diseases that affect adults. Internists are sometimes referred to as the “doctor’s doctor,” because they are often called upon to act as consultants to other physicians to help solve puzzling diagnostic
part of every aspect of their visit to our practice.” Education is the key to the success of any plan, and when patients understand every aspect of their healthcare strategy, the plan’s execution is that much better. “Understanding each and every aspect of the plan is of utmost importance, and we encourage our patients to ask questions, inquire about options, and participate in the choices we make on their behalf,” asserts Julie Michelitch, FNP-C. “Prevention is the key to good health, so take the initiative and be
Dunn, FNP-C. By combining a complete healthcare plan that includes a patient’s understanding and involvement in the decisions made for their care, the team at IMAJC achieves their goal of providing a partnership to their patients. “From the moment a patient entrusts us with their care, we strive to make them part of their care and the solution(s) to
Services Complete Physical Exams EKG’s School Physicals Hypertension High Cholesterol Heart Disease Diabetes Thyroid Disease Insulin Resistance Metabolic Syndrome Depression Anxiety Chronic Fatigue Insomnia Women’s Annual ExamsGynecology Osteoporosis/Weight Gain Stress Testing Bone Density Digital X-Ray In-house PT/INR testing Echo Cardiograms Vascular Exams
Contact 678.474.9633 problems. Doctors of internal medicine treat the whole person, not just internal organs.
aware of what you can do to live a healthy life,” adds Dr. Benson.
what ails them,” explains Michelle Hall, FNP-C.
The IMAJC Partnership As an active participant in your health, every patient is encouraged to play an active role when working with the physicians at IMAJC.
Balance The team at IMAJC believes that good health is not dependent on one thing or idea. It is achieved with a combination of expert medical care and your own healthy lifestyle choices including diet, exercise, and avoidance of harmful substances.
“Your health is a partnership between you and your doctor,” explains Dr. Tiffany Edwards. “We encourage our patients to be
“We will work with you to develop and carry out a plan for your overall physical and emotional health,” states Karon
A balanced partnership between doctors and patients, where the best healthcare plans are set in motion for each individual case, is Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek goal. Skills, knowledge and the pursuit of health are combined to provide each individual with outstanding service.
The practice welcomes patients ages 16 and up.
Monday through Friday 8:30am - 12:00PM and 1:30pm - 5:00pm 3340 Paddocks Parkway Suwanne GA 30024 www.imajohnscreek.com
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25
Health & Wellness
If you are overheated, out of breath, or your heart is racing, stop what you’re doing, move indoors and rest—especially if you feel lightheaded or faint.
Sun Safety
Tips to Keep You and Your Family Healthy this Summer Provided by: Northside Hospital Summer is a season to be spent outdoors. Before you head out under the sun, take a moment to read this quick refresher to prevent potentially life-threatening conditions. What’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what should I do if I notice symptoms of either? Heat exhaustion and heatstroke share some symptoms—nausea, dizziness, headache and high body temperature. A person with heat exhaustion is usually perspiring heavily, while someone with the more severe condition of heatstroke has lost the ability to sweat. Heat exhaustion can even develop over several days if fluids aren’t replenished. If you are overheated, out of breath, or your heart is racing, stop what you’re doing, move indoors and rest—especially if you feel lightheaded or faint. With heatstroke, the body has lost the ability to cool itself, so only cool water can bring down body temperature quickly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends placing a person afflicted with heatstroke in a cool tub or shower, or wrapping him or her in a cool, wet sheet and fanning the person to bolster evaporative cooling. Seek medical attention immediately. What are ways to stave off heat-related illnesses? • Keep cool and use common sense. • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. • Avoiding the midday heat as much as possible. • Drink plenty of fluids such as water, fruit juices or sports beverages. How can I minimize the risk of skin cancer? More than two million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year, 26 | MY FORSYTH
according to the American Cancer Society. Skin cancer doesn’t just affect sun bathers. Even everyday activities can leave your skin exposed and increase your risk for cancer. Shielding your skin from sun exposure can reduce your risk. These tips can help you protect your skin outdoors. Accessorize. Wear tightly woven, bright-colored clothing that covers most of the body. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Choose wrap-around sunglasses that absorb at least 100% of UV rays to help protect your eyes and the surrounding skin. Use and reapply sunscreen. Choose an SPF of at least 15, applying at least 20 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming because sunscreen particles break apart after exposure to the sun. Wear it on overcast days, too, as UV rays can travel through clouds. Be thorough when applying sunscreen. Skin cancer can occur in places you don’t expect – the backs of your hands and feet, eyelids, ears, in between your toes and your lips. Try using a sunscreen stick for a non-messy, easy-to-carry option. Schedule “sun time” for before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when exposure is less harmful. If outside during peak hours, seek shade or covered areas, instead of direct sun. Northside Hospital Forsyth is located at 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Cumming GA.
Expires 8/31/12 Cannot be combined.
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Health & Wellness
EVERY SIX MONTHS: The Importance of a Professional Teeth Cleaning [ by Sherry R. Jordan, D.M.D. ] Like a fish tank that accumulates “biofilm”, so do our teeth. Imagine not cleaning a fish tank for a year or more, the scum that lingers, smells, and eventually kills the fish. The same process goes on in our mouth but shows up as bleeding gums, loose teeth, bad breath, and the loss of supporting bone structure that anchors our teeth in. This irreversible process is called gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends a professional teeth cleaning at least every six months. Bacteria start forming on our teeth just hours after a professional cleaning. It starts as a white filmy substance called plaque that can be brushed off. Once this plaque mineralizes it is called tartar and can only be removed by a professional cleaning. There are over 500 different strains of bacteria in your mouth. You need
to have regular cleanings to disrupt and remove those bacterial colonies. Good home care is essential in between professional cleanings which includes brushing twice a day with a rechargeable electric toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and flossing properly once a day. Research has shown that gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s, dementia, low birth weight babies, and some cancers. Sometimes we prioritize our material items more than our own health. Would you wait three years to have your oil changed in your car? Don’t wait three years to have a professional cleaning. Our health is much more important. Nothing can replace your teeth like your own teeth. Take care of them so they will last you a lifetime.
Dr. Sherry Jordan earned her dental degree from the Medical College of Georgia. She may be reached at 770-888-6262.
Let us brighten your smile with the best complete dental care!! Teeth Whitening
Sealants Veneers Crowns/Bridges Velscope Oral Cancer Screenings
Monday – Wednesday: 8am – 5pm
Tooth colored fillings
Thursday: 8am – 2pm
1735 Buford Hwy Suite 135 | Cumming, GA 30041 | 770.888.6262 www.jordandentistry.com
Health & Wellness
Clear Vision at all D i s t a n c e s by Dr. Mira Sivan
If you’re having trouble seeing up close, welcome to the club – it happens to a lot of us in our 40s and 50s. It’s called Presbyopia. The thing is, it’s an active club: we’re running and biking, working and socializing with friends. We’re too active to do it all with glasses. Now there’s a contact lens that lets you see clearly at all distances and gives you the freedom to do it all. Multi-focal contact lenses deliver clear vision whether you’re reading, driving or
BENEFITS: Enjoy clear vision and smooth transition between distances Outstanding vision and comfort. You don’t compromise depth perception (Tennis, Golf…). Your vision insurance contact lens allowance may apply to this lens just like any other lens.
working on a computer. They are created with all-distance optics that seamlessly adjusts your vision needs. These contact lenses provide all the comfort you expect. They’re designed with a technology to provide breath-ability and moisture retention, while resisting deposit buildup. At last, a lens that provides a smooth transition as your eyes move naturally from one focal distance to another - near, intermediate and far. RIGHT FOR YOU IF: You are approaching or over the age of 40 and are having trouble reading fine print. You’re not comfortable with glasses during some activities (running, basketball, skiing…). You have trouble switching focus at near, intermediate & far distances. You just prefer to be seen without your glasses. You need to be patient – final fitting may take a few visits.
www.lowvisiontherapy-optometry-ga-cumming.com
5851 S. Vickery St. Cumming, GA30040 Mon-Thu: 10:00AM - 6:00PM Fri: 10:00AM - 5:00PM Sat: 10:00AM - 3:00PM Sun: Closed
Dr. Mira Sivan is an optometrist and owner of For Your Eyes Only, located at Vickery Village in Cumming. She may be reached at 678-648-5185.
AIR OPTIX® AQUA Multi focal (lotrafilcon B) contact lenses: High oxygen transmissible lenses. Dk/t = 138 @ -3.00D. Ask your eye care professional for complete wear, care and safety information. Important information for AIR OPTIX® AQUA Multi focal (lotrafilcon B) contact lenses: For daily wear or extended wear up to 6 nights for near / far-sightedness and/ or presbyopia. Risk of serious eye problems (i.e., corneal ulcer) is greater for extended wear. In rare cases, loss of vision may result. Side effects like discomfort, mild burning or stinging may occur. Ask your eye care practitioner for complete wear, care, and safety information AIR OPTIX, CIBA VISION, the AIR OPTIX logo and the ALCON logo are trademarks of Novartis AG. © 2012 Novartis AOM12070AE
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Health & Wellness
We now know that it is the sudden surge of blood pressure that can often precipitate acute events such as a heart attack, stroke or sudden death.
Hypertension is no Hype By NARENDRA SINGH, MD, FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA We have all heard about hypertension ; some of us have hypertension, less are treated for hypertension and too few are adequately protected from hypertension. Hypertension (high blood pressure- HBP) is the leading treatable risk factor for death worldwide. It affects all organs and contributes to strokes, heart attacks, and kidney failure. Other than a headache, hypertension rarely is noticeable without a blood pressure measurement. Blood pressure readings can be obtained in the doctor’s office , most pharmacies and at home. Systolic represents the top number and diastolic represents the bottom number. Systolic readings go up as vessels harden over time. Diastolic numbers are more influenced by your autonomic nervous system and vascular tone. If your systolic reading is over 140 mmHg or your diastolic is over 90 mmHg, you have hypertension. Age, family history and ethnic backgrounds are important determinants of HBP. Your weight, salt intake, alcohol consumption and activity level all contribute to HBP. Many patients believe that they have ‘white coat’ hypertension, a phenomenon in which patients exhibit elevated blood pressure in a clinical setting but not in other settings. It is believed that this is due to the anxiety some people experience during a clinic visit. In the past we often did not treat such patients. We now know that it is the sudden surge of blood pressure that can often precipitate acute events such as a heart attack, stroke or sudden death, by causing a plaque in the heart or neck to rupture. Therefore controlling blood pressure surges is important. If your blood pressure goes up in the doctor’s office, chances are that other life situations also cause similar surges. A minimum of three elevated readings on separate occasions is required to diagnose hypertension. Initial treatment for mild cases is lifestyle modification. Reducing your sodium intake to under 2g a day, exercising vigorously for 30 minutes 5 times a week, losing 30 | MY FORSYTH
weight and reducing alcohol intake to less than two drinks a day will all significantly lower your blood pressure. Many over-the-counter medications most notably the anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen, decongestants, and stimulants including caffeine can raise your blood pressure. There are a few medical conditions such as hyperthyroid disease, kidney disease and adrenal gland tumors that can cause high blood pressure. These are relatively rare. When lifestyle modification fails, or if you already have evidence of hypertension induced injury to vital organs, then drug therapy needs to be initiated. In the past, hypertensive drugs were expensive and filled with side effects. Today, we are fortunate to have many drugs which work well independently or in combination. Most are now generic and easily affordable. ACE inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blockers, aldosterone antagonists, calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, alpha blockers, direct renin inhibitors, direct vasodilators, nitrates and diuretics are all options. Your doctor will help choose the right combination of these drugs to minimize side effects, cost, and inconvenience while maximizing benefit both in terms of reducing blood pressure but more importantly preventing bad outcomes. It’s worth knowing your blood pressure!
Dr. Narendra Singh, MD FRCPC FACC FAHA studied at the Dalhousie Medical School in Halifax Nova Scotia and went on to complete a residency and cardiology fellowship at the University of Toronto. He is the Director of Clinical Research at Atlanta Heart Specialist.
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31
Health & Wellness
Thinking About Detox?
be Careful. [ by John Thomas, DC]
Many folks think that detox is a great, quick may to lose a few pounds and rejuvenate your body. And they are correct; however, before you start here is what you should know. Most toxins are stored in your fat cells. That’s because most toxic chemicals are fat-soluble, which means they dissolve only in fatty or oily solutions, not in water. And that’s why fat-soluble chemicals are attracted to your fat tissues. In fact, there are about 200 times more toxins stored in your fat cells than in your blood. When these toxins are trapped in your fat cells, they are contained. But when you begin a detox program, you pull these toxins out of your fat cells and into your bloodstream. And once they enter your bloodstream, they can travel through your body to your vital organs and wreak havoc on your health if your liver detox pathways are not at their best or you liberate large quantities of toxins in a hurry. These toxins can invade your joints and tissues triggering pain and inflammation. In a sense, you just circulate them to another area and you’re worse than before you started. Toxins can invade your brain, where they can cause headaches, memory loss, and premature brain aging. And they can invade your heart, where they can cause blood pressure problems. They can travel to your endocrine system where they can cause estrogen dominance, reduced libido and sexual dysfunction. They can invade your pancreas where they can cause blood sugar problems. They can invade your eyes causing vision problems. And they can invade your stomach where they can cause nausea or vomiting. That’s why detoxification programs often cause more health problems than they solve. And it’s why so many people who go on a detox program end up feeling worse afterwards! There is a right way to detox and you should never do any detox before cleaning out your gut and liver. As always discuss your health goals with a doctor, they can guide you through the proper steps to a successful detox.
Dr John C Thomas, DC, DAAIM is a Doctor of Chiropractic, Diplomate American Academy of Integrative Medicine, Board Eligible Clinical Nutritionist and a Certified Gluten Practitioner. He may be reached at 678-456-9122. 32 | MY FORSYTH
Summertime…
And the Living is Easy! [ by Jim Morrow, MD] The summer vacation is almost over and soon the big yellow buses will be filling the roads again. When you put your children on that school bus for the first day back at school, will they be prepared for the close contact of others and the rigors of the academic year? No matter how hard you push them to eat right, get enough sleep and wash their hands, nothing sets a child up for a great school year like a quality starting point. The child who enters the year fatigued, with a low energy level and poor immune status, has a greater chance of missing important days in school than does the child who is the opposite of all those things and also has been immunized appropriately and who you know has a normal blood count, kidney function, etc. It is a collaborative effort, keeping kids healthy. While they seem in most cases to be indestructible, we all know there are limits to that. So, take Johnny to your family doctor or pediatrician for a checkup. Take him every year. The time around birthdays is commonly touted as the best time, easiest to remember. But summertime is always a good time because no school is missed for the appointment. Your physician will perform the necessary examinations, recommend appropriate immunizations based on age and situation, and screen for conditions that need to be caught early, such as scoliosis. A full review of family and social history will help lead the clinician down an accurate future path for your particular child and a review of organ systems will aid in zeroing in on any current issues. Many residents are newcomers to Forsyth so if that is the case, be proactive and get a copy of your records from your previous physician. This will speed up the completion of forms for sports, scouts, camp, etc. It is invaluable information and almost unheard of for your previous physician to charge you to send records to another medical provider. By using a small part of your summer break to check up on your child’s health, you will play a huge part in the success of your child’s next academic year.
Dr. Jim Morrow specializes in Family Medicine. His practice, Morrow Family Medicine, is located in the 1400 Building, Suite 200, on the Northside Forsyth Campus in Cumming. He may be reached at 770-781-8004.
Business Spotlight
“
We believe in offering our customers not only the best customer service, but also a healthy and delicious product within a fun, clean, and inviting atmosphere.
”
YOGLI MOGLI More than just a Yogurt Shop! ensure that all of the kids that work at Yogli Mogli are safe, considerate to everyone and learn the values that will give them a great foundation with which to build their work ethics,” Arnold says.
Combining yogurt, fruits and gummy worms in a nutritional treat may sound a bit challenging, but at Cumming’s Yogli Mogli it is the norm. Yogli Mogli is a premium frozen yogurt store that offers a variety of nutritional yogurt flavors in a self-serve environment. “We believe in offering our customers not only the best customer service, but also a healthy and delicious product within a fun, clean, and inviting atmosphere,” explains Robin Arnold, store manager. “I would like for our customers to relate our Yogli as the corner soda shop from the 50’s where all members of the family can enjoy themselves,” she adds. Arnold’s two children, Garrett and McKenna work at Yogli Mogli, along with students from various Forsyth County Schools. “It’s great to have the kids here,” Arnold states. Arnold, an elementary school teacher by trade, enjoys being around kids. While at Yogli Mogli, she works with teenagers, some for whom this is their first job. “As the manager it is my job to
The Yogli Mogli Crew Ashley Miller – Kennesaw State University Ashton Tate – West Forsyth High School Audrey Wilson – Pinecrest Academy Avery Miller – Kennesaw State University Ben Willis – Georgia Southern Clayton Ball – Gainesville State University Elizabeth Qardan –South Forsyth High School Garrett Arden – North Georgia College Gavin West – Kennesaw State University McKenna Arden – West Forsyth High School Morgan Oberg – South Forsyth High School Nick Stabler – Lambert High School Palmer Lee – Alabama University Tori Hood – Columbus State University
With the many health benefits of yogurt, Yogli Mogli promotes quality of life for their customers. Yogurt contains not only calcium, protein, and potassium, but also B12 and Riboflavin. Yogli Mogli’s yogurt also has the seal for Live and Active Cultures from the National Yogurt Association. Most importantly, Yogli Mogli yogurt tastes great, it’s healthy, and offers a family-friendly environment everyone can enjoy. Yogli Mogli 405 Peachtree Parkway, Suite120, Cumming GA 770-844-0451 Open Daily at 11 am WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Go Connect. Go Serve. Go Support. Go Gerry Brown!
Walk A Mile ...In
Her Shoes!
Sunday, October 7, 2012 Fowler Park, Cumming An awareness and fundraising event where men will be walking in women's shoes to show their support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
walkamileforsyth@gmail.com Hosted by the Forsyth County Domestic Violence Task Force. All proceeds benefit Forsyth County Family Haven, Inc.
On July 11, 2012, Cumming resident Gerry Brown proudly represented his family, Cumming, and Coca-Cola Refreshments (CCR) as he took to the streets of Winchester, England to carry the 2012 Olympic torch for 300 meters (1/4 mile). “I am truly honored to have been selected to carry the Olympic torch,” Brown states. My family has known since last August, but had to keep the secret until the official notices were released. The father of four recalls it was a bit hard to keep it a secret. “My wife Shannon and I wanted to share the news with all our friends, but we knew we had to be patient,” Brown adds. The selection process started out during a group meeting at CCR’s IT Department. “We were asked if anyone would be interested in applying to carry the torch and folks pointed at me, so I went ahead and filled out the required paperwork.” Brown didn’t think he would be chosen, but is thrilled he was. Older sister Ronica Searcy proudly talks about her brother Gerry. “He served in Desert Storm, is a great father and husband, son, and an outstanding brother,” Searcy states. “We are thrilled that he was selected to be a torch bearer. He honors our family and we are very proud of him. ” Searcy describes her brother as “awesome and amazing.” Brown believes serving others is the most important aspect of his life. In addition to working for Coca-Cola Refreshments, Brown is the Founder and former President of the non-profit organization, Because We Care, Inc., which provides community assistance to poor, distressed and underprivileged people. Through Because We Care, he took many trips to the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina. Since then, Because We Care has transitioned into Trashwater. org. Brown also serves on the board of directors for Experience Missions International and Trashwater.org. By being a Coca-Cola Torchbearer in the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, Brown is looking forward to hearing the stories of the other torchbearers and how they are serving around the world. He believes this will give him insight on ways he can better serve his community. “The single leg of the relay is but a small component of a greater whole. Alone I can make a difference; but together we can change the world,” Brown states. Brown spends his free time with his wife and four children, Sean (18), Gabriel (15), and 10-year old twins Kayla and Joshua. For photos of Brown’s Olympic Torch relay visit www.becausewecare.com.
34 | MY FORSYTH
Before You Write, Consider this! [ by Ahmad Meradji]
So you want to publish a book. Think you need to jump into the writing first? Not so fast! Many authors believe they have to do all of the writing and then figure out the rest. But to help give your book a fighting chance, you have to do some “homework” first. before writing, ask yourself: Why are you writing the book? Common reasons: for fun; to build your business; to enhance your credibility; or to leave a legacy behind. Is your reason to make money? You risk disappointment. Half of all published titles sell less than 250 copies a year. As you write, be sure that your book fulfills that “why.” Will you end up with a book that makes you look like a credible expert? Will your book bring in new clients? What type of book is it? Spend some time clearly defining your book. What is your vision or concept? Once you have defined your book, while writing, be sure that you stay focused on the end vision. Who is your reader? This is a crucial question to answer before you type the fi rst sentence of your book. Every decision you make from word choice and writing style to the physical attributes of the book to how it will be promoted should be aimed at your reader. Why would they read it? Why would someone want to choose your book over another book in the same genre? Do you promise new information they can’t get anywhere else? Will you teach them something they never thought they could do? As you write the book, be sure your manuscript delivers on that “promise.” How can it be marketed? Every author should be thinking about how they will promote their book to potential readers, and get them to buy it, before they write. The genre of book, the audience you want to target as potential readers, and the “hook” that will make people want to read the book are all factors in what marketing and promotional methods you choose. BookLogix offers free educational publishing workshops/webinars. Visit BookLogix.com for a schedule. Ahmad Meradji is President and CEO of Booklogix Publishing Services in Alpharetta. He can be reached at 770-346-9979 or by email at Ahmad@ booklogix.com WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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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 36 | MY FORSYTH
SCHOOL INFORMATION WWW.FORSYTH.K12.GA.US Sharon Elementary 3595 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (770) 888-7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us
HIGH SCHOOLS
Shiloh Point Elementary 8145 Majors Road, (678) 341-6481 Principal: 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 Liberty Middle 7465 Wallace Tatum Road, (770) 781-4889 Principal: Connie Stovall cstovall@forsyth.k12.ga.us Little Mill Middle 6800 Little Mill Road, (678) 965-5000 Principal: Connie McCrary cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us North Forsyth Middle 3645 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 889-0743 Principal: Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us Otwell Middle 605 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us Piney Grove Middle 8135 Majors Road, (678) 965-5010 Principal: Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us Riverwatch Middle 610 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (678) 455-7311 Principal: Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us South Forsyth Middle 2865 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 888-3170 Principal: Sandy Tinsley stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us Vickery Creek Middle 6240 Post Road, (770) 667-2580 Principal: Kathy Rohacek krohacek@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Forsyth Central High 520 Tribble Gap Road, (770) 887-8151 Principal: Rudy Hampton rhampton@forsyth.k12.ga.us
Covenant Christian Academy 6905 Post Road, (770) 674-2990 Headmaster: Johnathan Arnold www.covenantrams.com Fideles Christian School 1390 Weber Industrial Drive, (770) 888-6705 Directors: Jonny and Ellen Whisenant www.fideles.net Friendship Christian School 3160 Old Atlanta Road, (678)845-0418 Vice-Principal: Butch Quinn www.friendshipchristianschool.us Horizon Christian Academy (K-6) 2160 Freedom Parkway (7-12) 433 Canton Road (678) 947-3583, (678) 947-0711 Headmaster: Heather Marshall www.horizonchristian.org Ivy League Montessori School 1791 Kelly Mill Road, (770) 781-5586 School Director: Becky Carty www.ilmsnet.com Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs 2830 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 205-6277 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessoriacademygeorgia.com Montessori at Vickery 6285 Post Road, (770) 777-9131 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessorivickery.com Montessori Kids of Cumming 3034 Old Atlanta Road, (678) 208-0774 Head of School, Charlotte Pixley www.montessoricumming.com [ Continued on page 43 ]
WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
37
Faith
Take a Stand [ by Maria I. Morgan ]
We make decisions every day. When we’re faced with choosing between right and wrong, it’s not always popular to stand up for what is right. At the risk of looking foolish or damaging a relationship, it’s often tempting to choose the path of least resistance. But Ebed-melech decided it was better to take a stand, than ignore injustice. N ot familiar with him? Continue reading and get to know this brave young man who made it into the annals of scripture. Remember the prophet Jeremiah? He was known as the weeping prophet for a reason. He was God’s spokesman to the people of Judah for forty years. The results? No one listened to him. In fact, he endured poverty and prison because of the unpopular messages of doom he delivered to the king and the people of Judah. Doesn’t sound like the type of job many of us would be clamoring to take, does it?! Things went from bad to worse for Jeremiah - the princes of Judah requested that he be put to death. King Zedekiah agreed to their demand. Only one person realized the injustice that was being carried out. You guessed it - Ebed-melech. He thought the situation was serious enough to risk approaching the king, “... My lord the king, these men have done evil in all that they have done to Jeremiah the prophet, whom they have cast into the dungeon: and he is like to die for hunger in the place where he is: for there is no more bread in the city,” (Jeremiah 38:8-9;KJV). The king granted his request. Ebed-melech was willing to stand up for what was right, and as a result, Jeremiah’s life was spared. And although God’s judgment fell on the people of Jerusalem, just as Jeremiah had prophesied, Ebed-melech received a special message from the Lord, “...I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prey unto thee: because thou hast put thy trust in me, saith the Lord,” (Jeremiah 39:18). Taking a stand for what is right may not always be popular, but learn a lesson from Ebed-melech - doing what is right is ALWAYS the right thing to do! Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me to stand up for what is right even in the face of adversity. Forgive me when I’ve chosen the approval of man over Your approval. Help me to take a biblical stand when Your truth is at stake. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Maria Morgan is a freelance writer and a Cumming resident. Visit her on the web @ www.mariaimorgan.blogspot.com 38 | MY FORSYTH
Lessons Learned [ by Neida Streit ]
One of my favorite things to do with my husband, besides fishing, is to watch the birds in our yard. We have multiple bird feeders (and even squirrel feeders) and houses for all types of birds. We have very large, tall front windows, so we have an excellent view of our birds all year long. We love the moving in process, especially the blue bird family who comes to the same house each year. She sits on the roof while he checks it out, they discuss something (chirping at each other), then start building the nest together. After building the nest, we do not see much of her – she is sitting on the eggs. He brings her food and keeps other birds away from their house. We have seen them raise a family in that house for the last 4 years, rejoicing with them when the babies learn to fly, missing them when they move on until next year when they return. Some of our favorites have been coming for a long time. There is a cardinal family, a blue bird family, blue jays, woodpeckers of various types, brown thrashers (our state bird), hummingbirds, finches, titmouses, starlings, sparrows, doves, and even a couple of pigeons. They have personalities. The bullies are Woody (the redheaded woodpecker), the Blue Jay, the brown thrasher and the male cardinal – in that order. Even the hummingbirds have a bully – Bruiser – who has ruled the hummingbird feeder for a few years and is a little on the hefty side for a hummingbird. Until one day this spring. Bill and I watched in awe as the father blue bird appeared at the bird feeder with 3 of his children. They had recently learned to fly and now he brought them to the feeder to learn to feed themselves. We watched as he took some seed and gave each one some. Then he went to the side where the peanut suet is, took some and gave to each one. Then he flew up to a tree branch and watched and encouraged them to eat. They just looked for dad! He came back two or three times to show them how again, then would fly nearby to watch. With us cheering them on (and taking pictures), they finally got the hang of it. As amazing as this was, the most amazing thing to us was the cardinal family in the tree next to the feeder looking on, the brown thrasher and blue jay on the sidewalk looking on, and Woody, the woodpecker sitting on a tree branch near the dad, watching as well. Normally, these bullies take over the feeder until they are done. On this morning, they simply watched and encouraged the little ones to learn to eat from their dad. Watching this will probably be one of our greatest memories of watching our birds. I just can’t imagine anything topping this. It is also a great lesson on the awesome God that created this world. Just as we are told to raise our children by teaching them, the birds raise their children by teaching. And another thing, even the bullies recognized and respected the father teaching his children. We live in an awesome world!
Neida Streit is the Director of Communications at Cumming First United Methodist Church. She may be reached at 770-887-2900 or nstreit@cfumcga.com
Faith
The Art of Disagreement [ by Nancy Johnson ] In my religious denomination, we recently held a General Conference. This is the once-every-four-years event at which big decisions are made, church law is decided, beliefs and positions are expressed. Delegates from around the world will gather in one spot – on this occasion, Tampa – to hammer out our shape, our stances and our direction for the future. Like any other group of human beings, this group of representatives will address some topics on which we do not all see eye to eye. Some of our disagreements make the newspapers, like when we consider controversial issues such as homosexuality or immigration. Some topics, like church structure and polity, are a snore to anyone but insiders. The one thing, however, that our church has in common with the population at large is that we carry a wide spectrum of views, beliefs and values, and that from time to time we will disagree.
We all disagree. While this may be blindingly apparent during a season like this one, when we have a national election, it’s pretty much true all the time. This shouldn’t surprise us. Disagreement is a reality of human life. We are all different people with dissimilar perspectives on our world. We are bound to want different things, work toward different outcomes and have different ideas on what courses of action will best benefit ourselves, our families and our world. How we disagree is another matter. While it is a given that we will have varying, even opposing viewpoints, it doesn’t mean we have to be at personal odds with one another. This is a fact that we seem to miss as our language becomes more and more heated over the issues of the day. We appear to make a sport of arguing, with the goal of only scoring points for our team. [ 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. WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Faith
Cumming AreA hOuses Of wOrshiP
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
North Lanier Baptist Church 829 Atlanta Highway, (770) 781-5433 Church service times: 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Bible Studies 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) Hispanic Service is at 10:30 a.m. in our Activities Center.
Eastgate Church 2820 Brookwood Road, Cumming 770-888-8852 Sunday Morning Worship Times: 9:00 & 11:00 am Wednesday Night services 7:00 pm Pastors: David & Robin Houtsma www.eastgatechurch.org
BAPTIST
Antioch Baptist Church 2465 Antioch Road (770) 887-6900 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Service: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. AWANA: Sunday at 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Pastor: Travis Bridgeman www.welcometoantioch.org Cumming Baptist Church 115 Church Street, (770) 205-6699 Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship service: 10:50 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Barry Crocker www.cummingbaptist.net First Baptist Cumming 1597 Sawnee Drive, (770) 887-2428 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups 11 a.m. Traditional Worship Service & Bible Fellowship Groups Wednesday: 6:15 p.m. AWANA Pastor: Dr. Bob Jolly www.firstbaptistcumming.org First Redeemer Church 2100 Peachtree Parkway, (678) 513-9400 Sunday Services: 9:15AM – Contemporary Service (Auditorium) 10:45AM – Blended Service (Auditorium) 9:00AM & 10:45AM; 6:30PM Bible Fellowship Pastor, Dr. Richard G. Lee, Founding Pastor www.firstredeemer.org Greater Heights Baptist Church 3790 Post Road, (770) 887-4802 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11 a.m. Sunday Evening: 5 p.m. Wednesday Evening & AWANA: 7 p.m. Pastor: Chris Grinstead www.ghbcc.org Longstreet Baptist Church 6868 Campground Road, (770) 889-1959 www.longstreetchurch.com Sunday School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday night adult and youth activities
40 | MY FORSYTH
Refuge Baptist Church 3525 Pilgrim Mill Road, (678) 807-7746 Sunday Bible Study: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m. Wednesday Prayer Service: 7 p.m. www.refugebaptistchurch.org
EPISCOPAL
St. Columba’s Church 939 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, (770) 888-4464 Wednesday Services: 6:30 p.m. Saturdays Service: 5:30 p.m. Sunday Service: 7:45, 9 & 11:15 a.m. Rector: Father Tripp Norris Curate: Father Daron Vroon www.saintcolumba.net The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit 724 Pilgrim Mill Road, (770) 887-8190 Services: Thursdays 12 noon, Sundays 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Rector: Keith Oglesby www.episcopalholyspirit.org
GREEK ORTHODOX
Saints Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Greek Orthodox Church 3074 Bethelview Rd., (770) 781-5250 Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 10 AM Pastor: Fr. Barnabas Powell www.stsrni.org
LUTHERAN
Living Faith Lutheran Church, LCMS 103 Buford Dam Road, (770) 887-0184 Sunday School: 9:00am, all ages Sunday Worship: 10:15am, 12:30pm (Korean) Wednesday Evening Fellowship Meal 6:00pm Bible Study for all ages 7:00pm Pastor Tim Droegemueller email: livingfaithoffice@bellsouth.net www.livingfaithlutheran.com facebook/livingfaithlutheranchurch Christ The King Lutheran Church (Evangelical Lutheran Church In America) 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Rd. Cumming, Ga. 30041 , 770-889-5328 ctklutheran.com Sunday Worship Service 8:15 AM Traditional 9:30 AM Contemporary 11:00 AM Traditional 1:00 PM Hispanic Sunday School 9:30 AM
OTHER 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 3140 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 Sunday Small Groups: 9:00 a.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: Chris Stovall www.lifepoint.org NewSong Community Church 433 Canton Road, Suite 306, Located across from Ingles, behind the National Guard in Building 300, (770) 888-5212 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Case Koolhaas www.newsongweb.org Rameshori Buddhist Center 130 Allen Road, Unit B Sandy Springs, 30328 , (404) 255-1585
PRESBYTERIAN
Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church 7620 Lanier Drive, (770) 887-6801 Sunday School all ages: 9:45 am Sunday Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: John S. Martin www.deercreekshores.org email: dcspres@comcast.net
Faith
THE COUNTRY PREACHER [ by David Hill ]
America’s declaration of independence seems so very far away in our thoughts. It was drafted between June 11 and June 28 by Thomas Jefferson and adopted unanimously by the thirteen colonies on the 4th of July 1776. Each generation finds it hard to imagine a world different from the one in which they grew up. When I was a boy our family listened for the distinctive ring that meant the phone call on our party line belonged to us. Could my grandchildren comprehend a black and white TV that required the rabbit ear antenna be adjusted for each channel? A test pattern came on ending the evening’s programs. Imagine no remote or even no TV! My parents were born in the 20’s. My grandparents were born shortly after Reconstruction and my grandfather’s great grandfather was born 9 years after The Declaration of Independence. He paid for his North Carolina land with shillings. America is a comparatively young country. Our “whatever” generation has a growing disillusionment with or maybe disinterest in the free enterprise system, the Constitution and our republican form of government. The price our forefathers paid with their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor is “so yesterday” to today’s children. Ben Franklin cautioned “They that give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Liberty is described as the right to choose and freedom is the result of that choice. Socialism is becoming the accepted new utopian approach to governing. My old hard copy 1980’s Webster Dictionary defines socialism as a “Marxist theory transitional between capitalism and communism”. While reading the opinion page of The Augusta Chalcedon Presbyterian Church 302 Pilgrim Mill Road, 770-205-9390 www.chalcedon.org | www.rpcus.com Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Pastor, Dr. Joseph C. Morecraft, III. Parkway Presbyterian Church 5830 Bethelview Road, (678) 889-8694 www.parkway-chruch.org Traditional Worship: Sundays 9:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship: Sundays11:00 a.m. Brazilian Ministry Sunday Services: 7:00 p.m. (The service is in Portuguese.) Rev. Bill Ford, Senior Pastor Rev. Cido Araujo, Assoc. Pastor of Brazilian Ministries Parkway Church 5830 Bethelview Road, (770) 889-8694 (½ mile west of GA 400 exit 13) Sunday Traditional Service: 9 a.m. Sunday Contemporary Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available for both services Senior Pastor: Bill Ford www.parkway-church.org email: info@parkway-church.org The Vine Community Church 4655 Bethelview Road, (678) 990-9395 Sunday Services: 9 & 10:45 a.m. Wednesday: Middle and High School youth meet at 7:15 – 8:30 p.m. Pastor: Jon Adams www.thevinecommunitychurch.com
Chronicle I noticed its heading still contained a Bible verse. The paper was established in 1785, nine years after The Declaration of Independence. America’s quest for change seems to be choosing a new direction by throwing away the road map and taking its hands off the wheel to see where downhill travel will lead us. The Bible teaches us to pray for governmental authorities (I Timothy 2:1-3), render the taxes owed to Caesar or the government (Luke 20:25) and to respect the power of law over us (Romans 13:1-4). God ruling a perfect kingdom is the Biblical ideal. Until God reigns the American system of representative government and free enterprise is unequaled. Jesus’ teaching about money did not require an equal distribution of wealth. He taught us concern for the difficulties of others, as in the story of the Good Samaritan. Learning to treat others as we wish to be treated is His Golden Rule. To care about our neighbor as we care about ourselves was the lesson Jesus taught to an ambitious young ruler. Our Lord reminded His listeners “the poor shall never cease out of the land” (Matthew 26:11; Deuteronomy 15:11). The needy were to be given opportunity. When the fields were harvested the corners were not to be reaped but left for the poor to glean. Laborers were not to pick up dropped grain so the hungry could harvest it (Leviticus 19: 9, 10, 13; Deuteronomy
ROMAN CATHOLIC
Church of Good Shepherd 3740 Holtzclaw Road (770) 887-9861 Mass: Saturday Vigil, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 7:30, 9 & 10:30 a.m. and 12 noon; 5:30 p.m. Spanish Mass, 1:30 p.m. Weekdays: 9 a.m Pastor: Father Frank www.goodshepherdcumming.com St. Brendan Catholic Church 4633 Shiloh Road, (770) 205-7969 Mass: Saturday Vigil: 5 p.m. Sunday: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m. & 5 p.m. Spanish Mass: 1 p.m. Weekdays: 8:30 a.m. Pastor: Fr. Matthew Van Smoorenburg, LC Parochial Vicars: Fr. Joseph Ramos, LC and Fr. Juan Guerra, LC www.stbrendansatl.com
UNITED METHODIST
Bethelview United Methodist Church 4525 Bethelview Road, (770) 887-4888 Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. www.bethelview.net (child care available) Pastor: Rev. Deborah Griffith Cumming First United Methodist Church 770 Canton Highway, (770) 887-2900 Sunday Services: 9 a.m. at Bald Ridge Marina 9:51 a.m. Contemporary Service www.cfumcga.com (Child care available) Sunday Hispanic/Latino Worship: 12 noon Wednesday Communion Service: 12 noon Senior Pastor: Rev. John L. Cromartie, Jr.
[ Continued on page 43 ] Rev. Hill is a Cumming resident and frequent guest preacher at Antioch Baptist Church. Biblical quotes are from the King James Version of the Bible.
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 WWW.MYFORSYTH.COM |
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Cumming Area Clubs and Organizations
Business Networking
Central Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tuesdays 11 a.m. — 1 p.m. Location: The Columns at Pilgrim Mill Apartments Contact: Nancy Wright, (770) 886-0500 or nancyw@ecigroups.com Information: No fees. Open to all. Forsyth Network for Business Professionals Meeting: Thursdays 11:30 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. Location: New) Bello Italian Restaurant 101 Meadow Drive Contact: Tiffany Allen at tiffany@servpro8378.com or 770-887-1962 Information: $50 membership fee and $10 monthly. Visit twice for free. No occupation overlap. Call first. Forsyth Business Network Meeting: Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. Location: Stars & Strikes, 133 Merchants Square Contact: Cheryl Campbell, cheryl@starsandstrikes.org Information: There is a membership fee, may visit twice for free. The Inspiration Network of Cumming Meeting: Third Wednesdays from 7 — 8:30 p.m. Location: The Nurturing Nook, 205 Pilgrim Mill Road Contact: Leanne Temple, (678) 965-5969 The Networking Social Meeting: Mondays 6:00 p.m. Location: The Ridge 1035 Turner Road, Cumming GA Contact: Kimberly Starr, 770-313-6546 kimberly@thenetworkingsocial.com Information: The Networking Social is about reaching your professional goals by utilizing a personal marketing and relationship networking approach. Open to everyone. Visit www. TheNetworkingSocial.com for details. Member Power Networking Lunch Every Tuesday at 12 Noon Meeting: Location: Various chamber member restaurants Contact: (770) 887-6461 or www.cummingforsythchamber.org Information: $15 for members and $30 for non-members South Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. No fees. Location: Starbucks-141 and Ronald Reagan – John’s Creek, 435 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, GA 30041 Contact: Robin Grier (770) 887-2772 rgrier@harborfs.com
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Women Who Mean Business Meeting: First Tuesday, Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Location: Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Event’s Facility 513 W. Maple Street Contact: (770) 887-6461 Information: Free for members; $30 for non-members. Register online at www. cummingforsythchamber.org.
Charitable Organizations
Georgia Highlands Medical Services Contact: (770) 887-1668 Information: This is a non-profit Community Health Center (CHC) serving the medical needs of North Georgia since 1979. Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. Contact: (770) 886-5419 Website: www.savethehorses.org Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter Location: 4440 Keith Bridge Road Contact: (770) 887-6480 Information: Non-profit, no-kill shelter for cats and dogs. Website: www.forsythpets.org There’s Hope for the Hungry Contact: (678) 513-9400 Information: Non-profit organization partnering with churches across North Georgia to feed those in need. Website: www.thereshope.org Whispering Hope Resource & Pregnancy Center Location: 133 Samaritan Drive, Suite 306 Information: Non-profit organization dedicated to informing, educating, and providing an outstretched hand to women who face an untimely pregnancy. Contact: (770) 889-8302, whisperinghope4u@bellsouth.net Website: www.WhisperingHope.org
Civic Organizations
Ducktown Chapter #460 — Order of the Eastern Star Meeting: 2nd & 4th Fridays at 7:30 p.m. Location: 4655 Canton Hwy. Contact: (770) 887-8147 Rotary Club of South Forsyth Meeting: Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. Location: 6300 Polo Club Drive Website: www.southforsythrotaryclub.org
Political Organizations
Democratic Women of Forsyth County Meeting: Second Thursday Location: Different restaurants in Cumming Contact: Mary Chatfield, (770) 887-1106 Facebook page: DWFC GA Information: Democratic women meet monthly and the meetings alternate between lunch and dinner meetings with programs.
Forsyth County Democratic Party Meeting: 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: CooCoo’s Nest restaurant, corner of Freedom Parkway & Pilgrim Mill Road, Cumming Contact: Ricia Maxie at ricialm@aol.com or Mary Chatfield at (770) 887-1106
Recreation & Hobbies
Cumming Garden Club Contact: (770) 844-7061 Meeting: Held second Tuesday of each month from Sept. until May at 10:00 AM Information: Non-profit organization with the purposes of educating members & the community in gardening, conservation & creative expression. Cuong Nhu Martial Arts Club Contact: (404) 423-3524 Meeting: Every other Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Central Park Website: www.meetup.com/North-Atlanta Cuong-Nhu-Martial-Arts-Club/ Information: No fees, open to 16 years + North Georgia Chess Center Location: 2450 Atlanta Hwy. Suite 1401 Contact: Joseph or Cathy Couvillion 770-844-9204, northgachesscenter@gmail.com, www.northgachesscenter.com Information: Call for hours. Membership $15 per month or $150 annually. Lessons are also available. Piecemakers Quilt Guild Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of each month; 4th Tuesday is “sewcialbee” (community quilts, classes or just getting together) Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming Website: www.piecemakersga.netw
Support Organizations
AA Cumming Meeting: Meets four times daily Location: Ingles Shopping Center at 432 Canton Highway (Hwy 20) Second suite on far left. 24-hour information line: (770) 886-0696 Information: Group of Alcoholics Anonymous located in Forsyth County Website: www.aacummingga.org Forsyth County Newcomers and Women’s Club Meeting: Third Thursday of each month Location: Windermere Golf Club Contact Mika King, forsythcountynewcomers@gmail.com Information: A luncheon with program, many interest group activities every week (ladies, mens, couples and singles). Open to all women currently living in the county. Website: www.newcomersclubofforsyth.org
clubs, Continued Holistic Moms Network - Forsyth County Monthly meetings with informational speakers, yoga group, play groups Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Location: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House 5095 Post Road, Cumming Contact: Ann Linke at holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com Website: www.holisticmoms.org Labrador Friends of the South, Inc. Location: PO Box 933, Cumming Contact: labfriendinfo@gmail.com Website: www.labradorfriends.com
The Art of Disagreement Our lives, however, are not a game, and this particular path leads us to some pretty dangerous territory. As the temperature rises in our conversation, our thinking becomes less careful. This is human nature and is true whether we are arguing one-on-one or between political parties. When this happens, it is enticingly simple to view issues in black and white, behaving as though the answers were easy and obvious. As we begin the think this way, we not only sharply decrease our chances of finding solutions through the compromise that is necessary to move forward, we also starve ourselves of the wisdom that binds us together in our common humanity.
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
When Jesus calls us to love our neighbor, that love includes the effort to understand those neighbors – their perspectives, their needs and beliefs. In practicing God’s love, we acknowledge that their point of view is as right to them as ours is to us – whether or not we agree – and that the answers are never straightforward or easy.
Moms Club of Cumming — Southwest Meeting: Last Tuesday of each month Contact: http://www.momsclub.org
Make an exercise of trying to understand a point of view that you disagree with. There is no need to change your beliefs, only to consider opposing arguments – without exaggerating or caricaturing them – and to try to understand what makes someone else believe in them so passionately, even if you don’t. Then, when incivilities aren’t being tossed around, try to see your “opponent” as caring about a particular issue just as much as you do, even if you have opposite opinions. Even if we can’t begin to understand the point of view that is different from our own, we can understand the sincerity with which the belief is held by someone who has considered it just as carefully as we have.
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 Single Mom Meeting Connect with other single moms, learn about paths to higher education and get links to community resources. Light dinner provided and free on-site childcare/ homework help provided. Meeting: 2nd Thursday every month at 6:30pm Location: 210 Dahlonega St., Suite 203, Cumming Contact: Valerie Daniel Faith’s House, Inc. 770-205-6311 website: www.faithshouseinc.org
Choosing a healthy approach to disagreement can transform our situation. It can help us make friends instead of enemies, and allow us to build better relationships and stronger communities. In seeking to understand our neighbor, we might find ourselves learning more than we had imagined. We will certainly build a foundation for moving forward in wisdom and in peace.
SMART Recovery Meeting: Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Location: Professional Recovery Counseling, LLC. 107 W. Court house Square, Suite 274 Website: www.smartrecovery.org
The Country Preacher, Continued 24:19-21). A hired servant was to receive his pay no later than the day agreed (Deuteronomy 24:14-15). The Lord will bless our efforts and remove any regrets but laziness can’t be rewarded. It‘s honorable to work hard (Proverbs 10:4, 22). “Righteousness exalteth a nation” Proverbs 14:34.
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Reference
Elected & Appointed Officials United States Government: President Barack H. Obama (D) 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov
(202) 456-1414 fax: (202) 456-2461
Commissioners: R.J. (Pete) Amos, District 1 (R) e-mail: rjamos@forsythco.com
Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) Atlanta Office: 100 Galleria Parkway Suite 1340 GA: Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website
(202) 224-3521
Senator Johnny Isakson (R) Atlanta Office: One Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.isakson.senate.gov
(202) 224-3643
Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 Georgia Office: Wachovia Center GA: 500 Jesse Jewel Parkway, Suite 301, Gainesville, GA 30503 Website: www.tomgraves.house.gov
(202) 225-5211 (770) 535-2592
Rep. Rob Woodall. (R), District 7 Email: woodall@mail.house.gov Website: http://woodall.house.gov
(770) 963-2420
State Government: Governor Nathan Deal (R) Website: www.gov.state.ga.us fax:
(770) 763-9090 fax: (202) 224-0103
(770) 661-0999
(404) 652-7003 (404) 652-7123
LT. Governor Casey Cagle Website: www.gov.state.ga.us
(404) 656-5030
Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax:
(770) 887-1960 (770) 205-0602
Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov
(678) 341-6203 fax: (770) 844-5821
Rep. Mark Hamilton (R), District 23 e-mail: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov
(770) 844-6768
Rep. Mike Dudgeon (R), District 24 e-mail: mike.dudgeon@house.ga.gov
(770) 887-0400
Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov
(404) 657-8534
Forsyth County Government: Forsyth County Board of Commissioners 110 East Main Street, Suite 210, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 781-2101 Website:www.forsythco.com fax: (770) 781-2199
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County Manager Doug Derrer
(770) 781.2101 fax : (770) 781.2199
(678) 513-5881
Brian R. Tam, District 2 (R) e-mail: brtam@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5882
Todd Levent, District 3 (R) e-mail: tlevent@forsythco.com
(770) 781-2101
Patrick B. Bell, District 4 (R) e-mail: pbbell@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5884
Jim Boff, District 5 (R) e-mail: jjboff@forsythco.com
(678) 513-5885
Forsyth County School System Superintendent, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans 1120 Dahlonega Highway Cumming Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us Forsyth County Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter 1092 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Website: www.forsythco.com Board of Education: Ann Crow, District 1 (R) e-mail: ACrow@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-2461
(770) 781-2110
(770) 490-6316
Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R) e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 781-5222
Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R) e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 657-0810
Darla Light, District 4 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 887-0678
Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R) e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us
(770) 889-0229
City of Cumming Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt Cumming City Hall 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040
(770) 781-2010
Cumming City Council Members: Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton City Administrator Gerald Blackburn City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net
(770) 781-2010
Reference
Community Information Numbers & Websites Emergency — 911 Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines: Battered Women Hotline Poison Control Center — Atlanta Outside Metro Atlanta Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center Medical Northside Hospital — Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive Neighborhood Healthcare Center 2825 Keith Bridge Road Health Department 428 Canton Highway Fire and Law Enforcement City of Cumming Police Department 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard Forsyth County Fire Department 3520 Settingdown Road Georgia State Patrol Libraries Forsyth County Public Library 585 Dahlonega Road Hampton Park Library 5345 Settingdown Road Sharon Forks Branch 2810 Old Atlanta Road Parks and Recreation City of Cumming Main Number: 410 Pilgrim Mill Road Central Park Office Central Park Recreation Center 2300 Keith Bridge Road Windermere Park 3355 Windermere Parkway Fairgrounds 235 Castleberry Road Golf Clubs Chestatee Golf Club 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville Country Land Golf Course 6560 Mayfield Drive Polo Golf & Country Club 6300 Polo Club Drive Windermere Golf Club 5000 Davis Love Drive
(770) 479-1703 (404) 616-9000 (800) 222-1222 (404) 250-KIDS (770) 428-2666
(770) 844-3200 www.northside.com (770) 844-7494 (770) 886-7135 (770) 781-6906
(770) 781-2000 www.cummingpd.net (770) 781-2180 www.forsythco.com (770) 205-5400
(770) 781-9840 www.forsythpl.org (770) 781-9840 (770) 781-9840
(770) 781-2030
Forsyth County Marinas Habersham Marina 2200 Habersham Marina Road Port Royale Marina 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville
(770) 887-5432 (770) 887-5715
YMCA 6050 Y Street
(770) 888-2788
POST OFICE 525 Tribble Gap Road
(770) 886-2388
Schools Forsyth County Board of Education www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
See page 36 for complete listing (770) 887-2461
UTILITIES City of Cumming (770) 781-2020 Water & Sewer Forsyth County Water & Sewer Department (770) 781-2160 110 East Main Street www.forsythco.com Solid Waste Advanced Disposal/Eagle Point Landfill (770) 887-6063 8880 Old Federal Road, Ball Ground www.advanceddisposal.com Olde Atlanta Recycling LLC (770) 205-6912 2535 Ivy Street East Waste Management, Inc. (770) 751-1304 774 McFarland Road, Alpharetta www.wm.com Recycling Keep Forsyth County Beautiful (770) 205-4573
(770) 781-2215 (678) 455-8540
Telephone AT&T Residential Business www.att.com
(770) 781- 2215
Georgia Power
888) 660-5890
(770) 781-3491
Sawnee Electric Membership
(770) 887-2363
(888) 757-6500 (866) 213-6300
(706) 216-7336 (770) 887-0006 (770) 887-7656 (678) 513-1000
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Support the Advertisers that Support Your Community!
ATTORNEY Steven Liebel.................................... 23 706-867-7575 www.northgeorgiapersonalinjury.com
CONSIGNMENT SALES Kids Consignment Fall/Winter Sale.. 10 770-887-2900 www.cfumcga.com
HAIR SALON Wendy Grosse OVO Salon.......................................... 5 678-469-4414
AUTO REPAIR/CAR CENTER Scott’s Auto Center............................... .......................... Inside Front Cover, 45 678-947-4040 www.scottsautocenter.net
DANCE ACADEMIES Cumming Dance Academy.............. 10 770-781-4922 www.CummingDanceAcademy.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN Nine Alchemies.................................. 6 678-677-0230 www.ninealchemies.com
Fusion Dance Academy................... 21 www.TheFusionDancer.com 770-888-1555
JEWELRY STORE Lance’s Jewelry............Back Cover, 45 770-781-5500 www.lancesjewelry.com
Johns Creek Mechanic..................... 10 706-622-5509 www.JohnsCreekMechanic.com BOOKS/BOOK PUBLISHERS BookLogix Publishing Services, Inc..................................... 37 770-346-9979 www.booklogix.com CLEANERS/DRY CLEANERS/ SHOE REPAIR Green Cleaners.......................... 27, 45 770-888-4496 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS Carpet Dry Tech............................... 11 678-368-5991 www.carpetdrytech.com CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE Victoria’s Children’s Boutique............. 7 7770-888-7828 www.victoriaschildrenboutique.com CHIROPRACTOR Integrated Healthcare of Georgia... 27, 34 678-456-9122 www.chiropractorcumming.com CHURCH/ SERVICES Cumming First United Methodist.......................................... 43 770-887-2900 | www.cfumcga.com COMPUTER/NETWORK REPAIRS QWorks............................................. 11 678-947-6419 | www.qworksusa.com
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DENTISTS /ORTHODONTICS Jordan Dentistry............................... 28 770-888-6262 www.JordanDentistry.com Windermere Orthodontics................ 39 770-888-1929 www.orthodonticsatwindermere.com EDUCATION /INSTRUCTION Huntington Learning Center............. 35 770-205-2800 www.huntingtonlearningcenter.com Johns Creek Montessori School of Georgia............................................... 4 www.JohnsCreekMontesorriog.org ELECTRICIAN Arc Angel Electric................................. .......................... Inside Back Cover, 45 770-889-9243 www.ArcAngelElectric.com EYE CARE/OPTOMETRIST For Your Eyes Only........................... 29 678-648-5185 www.lowvisiontherapy-optometry-gacumming.com FLOWERS/GIFTS Funky Mountain Flowers & Gifts......... 6 770-781-4616 www.FunkyMountain.com
PET ADOPTION/RESCUE Humane Society of Forsyth County.. 13 770-889-1365; 770-887-6480 www.forsythpets.org PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates Photography......17 770-617-7597 www.kimbatesphotoart.com Southern Kiwi Photography................ 5 404-583-0659 www.SouthernKiwiPhoto.com PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Heart Specialists……….31 678-679-6800; 770-622-1622 www.ahsmed.com Internal Medicine Associates of Johns Creek................................................ 24 678-474-9633 www.imajohnscreek.com Northside Hospital Forsyth................. 1 770-844-3200 www.northside.com Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center............................................... 15 770-844-3293 www.northside.com/sleep
Radiotherapy Associates of Forsyth.27 770-292-7000 www.forsythradiotherapy.com REAL ESTATE The Dinsmore Team……44 770-712-7789 www.thedinsmoreteam.com RESTAURANTS /FOOD SERVICES Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine........................... 16 678-208-0341 www.freshnfit.com Mia’s Pizza & Eats............................ 19 770-887-8874 www.miaspizzaandeats.com Norman’s Landing........................... .19 770-886-0100 www.normanslanding.com The Ridge Great Steaks & Seafood…..17 770-886-9003 www.theridgerestaurant.com Yogli Mogli....................................... .19 770-844-0451 www.yoglimogli.com SPECIAL EVENTS Labor Day 10k for Autism................. 16 404-769-4408/678-341-8032/770-6335511 Walk a Mile in Her Shoes.................. 34 walkamileforsyth@gmail.com THEATER PRODUCTIONS BK Productions................................... 7 678-455-6110 WEB HOSTING/DEVELOPMENT Hyperion Avenue.............................. 48 678-926-9697 www.hyperionavenue.com
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