X 2013 by Michael Barton

X_2013

Insights into Clinical Trials & Research At l a n ta H e a r t S p e c i a l i s t s A n g el s of Fors y t h

Gluten Free Nutrition

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CONTENTS

COVER STORY 6:

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Insights into Clinical Trials Atlanta Heart Specialists, LLC

FEATURES 13: So You Want to Represent Yourself 21: Why Can’t I Have My Book Out Next Month? 24: Angels of Forsyth 30: Life Insurance: Do You Really Need It? 34: What to Expect from a SAT® or ACT® Prep Program LIFESTYLE 23:

Decide What Not To Do

MY HOME 15: Start Thinking About Your Christmas Décor! 16: Keeping Your Summer Tropicals Healthy During the Fall Season 16: Keeping Your Air Flowing Longer… and Cleaner! FORSYTH FOODIE 18: 37:

Lenny’s Sub Shop Flavorful Foods for All Ages

MY BUSINESS 20: Operation 21: Leading Compliance Education Can Football Save Your Business? 20: HEALTH & WELLNESS 28: Eating Low Carb 28: Urinary Incontinence in Women 31: Protect Yourself from Carotid Artery Disease and Stroke 32: Tips for Healthier Eyes and Better Vision

FAITH 38: 38:

Develop a Good Habit What’s Wrong with People

IN EVERY ISSUE 10: Forsyth County Government News 11: News Around Forsyth 14: Humane Society Adopt a Pet Book Review: Still Foolin Them by Billy Crystal 22:

About the cover: Dr. Narendra Singh and The Research Team at Atlanta Heart Specialists, LLC

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How do you capture forever?

PUBLISHER

Market Complete LLC julie@marketcomplete.com 678-614-8583

DIRECTOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Lynda Trotman lynda@marketcomplete.com 404-444-0640

MARKET MANAGER Derrick Arendt derrick@myforsyth.com 678-899-5068

EDITOR

Jennifer Paire editor@myforsyth.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Eddy Herty bentforkdesign.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kim Bates kimbatesphotoart.com Kaylene Fister southernkiwiphoto.com

TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATOR

Michael Barton michael@myforsyth.com

www.kimbatesphotoart.com

events | portraits | photo journalism | fine art

770.617.7595

by appointment kbphotoart@comcast.net 4

PRINTING

EBA Media Solutions 770-500-2075 treb-atl.com The mission of My Forsyth magazine, a publication of Market Complete LLC, is to provide readers with a monthly publication with stories and information about their communities and its people. Each month, 22,000 copies of your community magazine are distributed via direct mail and throughout local businesses as part of our rack distribution. We welcome your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions are not necessarily those of the MarketComplete LLC. The Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. My Forsyth is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. ÂŠCopyright 2013. My Forsyth â&#x20AC;˘www.myforsyth.com 5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135 Cumming GA 30040 (p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511

then are long gone, and most of them have children of their own now. Pulling up to the curb, you find that the oak sapling you planted in the front yard at age seventeen now has a trunk too thick to reach around. The giant mimosa tree in the back yard where your little brother fell and broke his arm was cut down and carted off years ago, but the holly still shades the spot where you buried a beloved pet and found out about real, personal loss for the first time.

t’s the time of the year when many of us take that holiday trip to be with family for a holiday celebration. If you haven’t been home for a number of years, such a visit can be a thought-provoking mix of the familiar and the new.

Driving through the old hometown, you’re shocked at how it’s changed. For one thing, it seems so small. After having lived in North Georgia, you’re used to driving 45 minutes to get literally anywhere. You’re surprised that it only takes 15 minutes to cross town. But as you turn into the neighborhood of your youth, the world comes back to center. Many of familiar landmarks are there to reassure you, along with a number of changes, some startling, some saddening. The small store on the corner is still there, with pop-top rings ground into the asphalt parking lot as mute testimony to the length of its tenure.

Inside, an exchange of hugs goes all around. The look of love in Mom and Dad’s eyes is as familiar and unmistakable as the aroma coming from the kitchen. In the living room, the game is on the television, but your attention goes to the pictures of family—older ones in vintage frames: grandparents, baby pictures, wedding portraits, graduations, proms, Halloween costumes, band uniforms, and sports teams.

The Royal Castle that served delicious hamburgers and birch beer is gone, a used car lot in its place. But the Episcopal Church down the street, with its dramatic, sweeping roofline is there, looking just the same as always. The woods where you built forts and spent half your childhood have been paved over, but the fishing holes where you caught bluegills and catfish are still there.

Your bedroom has been converted into an office with computer, but later Mom will open a footlocker containing forgotten memorabilia. Awards, swimming medals and ribbons, band and athletic letters from high school. Old report cards, pennants, plaques, yearbooks, and school pictures are stacked in along with a baseball glove, a Barlow knife, some old coins, Matchbox cars, a stack of trading cards, a few marbles and a couple of favorite childhood storybooks.

Tracing the old route to school seems much shorter than you remember. The local park is on the way, looking timeless with its palm trees and flowers. How many young people got their first kiss there, as you did? As you approach the elementary school, you can’t believe that you ever found this small, utilitarian complex intimidating.

For the rest of the weekend, you are acutely aware of how quickly the time flies by, and you breathe a silent vow to visit regularly, and to never miss a chance to tell your folks that you love them. How well you live up to that pledge is a test of character. Passing the test is up to you.

my forsyth

By: Julie Brennan

With a sigh, you turn the car around and head for the house where you grew up. Turning onto your street, the homes are familiar, yet not. There are new colors, different landscaping, a few additions, and a lot of strange faces. The kids who lived around here back

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.

ver the years medical research has advanced our knowledge of medicine. Treatments for various diseases and illnesses are now available because of research studies. While advancements are welcomed by most, not so is the ability to take that leap of faith and sign up for a research study. Fear, misinformation and lack of trust may keep patients and volunteers from helping advance the knowledge of medicine and treatments.

At the forefront of worldwide research is Dr. Narendra Singh, board certified cardiologist and Director of Clinical Research with Atlanta Heart Specialists, LLC. He leads a nationally and internationally recognized research team based out of Cumming Georgia. “Clinical trials are the cornerstone to medical progress and we are excited to offer these opportunities to our community” stated Dr. Singh. Clinical

trials look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease. Treatments might be new drugs or new combinations of drugs, new surgical procedures or devices, or new ways to use existing treatments. “The goal of clinical trials is to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe. Clinical trials can also look at other aspects of care, such as improving the quality of life for people with chronic illnesses,” Dr. Singh added.

Clinical Trials Research Should I participate? Informed consent is essential to performing high-quality research. The investigator should be able to explain to you what the study is about, who is doing it, what are the risks, benefits and alternatives, what the safeguards are, and how your privacy is protected. All quality research is overseen by an institutional review board

(IRB) and a data and safety monitoring board (DSMB) who provides independent oversight to ensure that the work is conducted to the highest ethical standards.

“Participating in a clinical trial gave me the opportunity to play a role in the discovery of treatments, cures, and preventions for certain diseases or medical conditions,” explained Daniel G., patient. While payment to participate in research is not considered ethical, our practice is able to compensate you for all travel related costs and there are no additional expenses to you or your insurance company. Research also has a potential to provide the

Dr. Singh has been a site investigator in over 100 national and international trials. He actively designs and conducts independent research. He has published extensively on topics ranging from South Asian heart disease, acute coronary syndromes, health outcomes, and disparities in access to care. He is the recipient of numerous awards and a highly sought after speaker and educator.

FEATURE

Clinical trials are the cornerstone to medical progress… terms of more diligent care, early access to a new drug or device and free medical evaluations with a specialized team. It’s one of the reasons why patients who participate in clinical trials usually do better than patients outside of trials regardless of which treatment arm they are assigned. In clinical trials there is often a placebo (standard of care) arm. The purpose of this blinded random assignment to active treatment versus placebo is to reduce the possibility of introducing bias regarding the effect of the new intervention. In addition it is well known that the power of suggestion has a large therapeutic effect and therefore must be balanced.

Many of the drugs and devices that we now take for granted would not have been available had it not been for clinical trials research.

“Only with research did we find that a drug as simple as aspirin used previously for pain control, actually improved survival during a heart attack,” Dr. Singh added.

Phase 3 studies are the large clinical trials that determine whether the drug should make it to market. Phase 4 studies take the approved compound and look for new indications for its use and are usually the safest of the trials.

The Phases of Research

“Being involved with research for the past 20 years and working with an outstanding team of highly experienced certified research coordinators and physicians I encourage you to consider involvement when the opportunity arises. You don’t

Research is conducted in phases. Phase I studies are the first exposure in humans and carry with them the greatest risk or uncertainty. Phase II studies are small and designed to see if the experimental agent is beneficial.

Meet Dr. Narendra Singh Dr. Singh is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Georgia Regents University and Director of clinical research within his group. He is a Clinician Scientist with the Canadian

MY FORSYTH

Cardiovascular Research Network. Dr Singh also serves as a councilor on the Georgia Chapter, American College of Cardiology board. heartdrsingh.com 678-679-6800

Clinical trials provide participants with an opportunity to help people suffering from medical conditions.

Research Team - Left to Right: Shraddha Dubal, Denise Whitlock, Gulanara Gousseinova, Erin Hampton, Courtney Clark, Kati Turner, absent-Deb Logwood

Clinical trials often come with hard to pronounce names but cover a wide range of conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart attacks, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, pacemakers, inflammation and peripheral atrial disease. If you would like to learn more about eligibility you can contact us at 678-679-1065 or e-mail DrSingh@heartdrsingh.com Atlanta Heart Specialists studies open to enrollment: Cantos, Reduce-It, Odyssey Outcomes, Grand, Gloria-AF, CIRT, Siello, Declare Paragon HF, Tigris, Orbit AF Registry.

They are a nationally and internationally recognized research team based out of Cumming, Georgia. even have to be a patient in our practice as long as your other physicians agree to your participationâ&#x20AC;? stated Dr. Singh.

protected. Federal regulation requires all institutions in the United States that conduct or support biomedical research involving people to have an IRB initially approve and periodically review the research. Atlanta Heart Specialists has 10 other cardiologists in 7 locations throughout the city and a second research facility based out of the flagship office in Tucker, Georgia.

Each clinical trial in the United States must be approved and monitored by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure that the risks are minimal and are worth any potential benefits. An IRB is an independent committee that consists of physicians, statisticians, and members of the community who ensure that clinical trials are ethical and that the rights of participants are

To learn more about trials at Atlanta Heart Specialists, LLC visit www.heartdrsingh.com or nationally at www.clinicaltrials.gov.

FEATURE

FORSYTH COUNTY GOVERNMENT NEWS 110 E. Main Street, Suite 210 TV Forsyth - Comcast Channel 23 www.forsythco.com

Forsyth County Launches Time-Lapse Videos of New Courthouse and Jail Construction Residents have a new way to watch the construction of Forsyth County’s new courthouse and jail. Time-lapse videos of the construction are available for viewing on the county Web site at www. forsythco.com as a way for residents to view the ongoing progress of the new facilities. Two different perspectives of the project site in downtown Cumming are available for viewing. One camera views the site from Cumming City Hall. The other option displays the site as seen from the existing Forsyth County Courthouse. Visitors to the county Web site will have the option of viewing weekly progress from either perspective as well as viewing the progress-to-date time-lapse video, which includes footage from the beginning of construction to the present date. A time-lapse video of the site demolition, completed in March 2013, is also available. “The construction of these two new facilities is such a big step forward for this community in terms of our judicial and public safety infrastructure,” County Manager Doug Derrer said. “We are excited to offer the time-lapse videos as a unique way for citizens to follow the progress of these projects.”

The time-lapse videos will be updated weekly throughout construction. To view the videos, visit www. forsythco.com and click on the Courthouse and Jail Project Update icon under ‘Special Features.’

Senior Services Hosting Holiday Concert Forsyth County Senior Services is ready to celebrate the holiday season with a ‘Spirit of Christmas Past’ Holiday Concert for all ages. The Sounds of Sawnee Concert Band will perform at the Sexton Hall Enrichment Center from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, as part of the quarterly concerts hosted by Senior Services. The concert will feature seasonal music, warm beverages and tasty holiday treats. The cost is $5 in advance and $8 at the door. Sexton Hall Enrichment Center serves active adults ages 50+ and offers a variety of opportunities including art, music, dancing, drama, continuing education, technology, fitness and leisure activities. It is located at 2115 Chloe Road, just off of Sharon Road between Peachtree Parkway and Old Atlanta Road.

For additional information, call Senior Services at 770.781.2178. my forsyth

Online Payment Option Now Available for Some Traffic Citations The Forsyth County Clerk of Courts office has recently added a new online feature designed to save residents time and enhance efficiency of the office. Online payment for certain traffic citations is now offered on the Clerk of Courts’ Web site, www.forsythclerk.com. While not all citations are payable online, many are. Those that can be paid online include citations for parking violations, seatbelt tickets, expired tag, defective equipment, most minor traffic violations, most speeding infractions up to 23 miles per hour over the posted speed limit, most fishing and boating offenses, and minor accident tickets once approved by the Solicitor-General’s Office after investigation. To access the online payment portal, visit www.forsythclerk.com and click on ‘Court Docket’ beneath the E-Services menu on the left side of the home page. Click on ‘Criminal Case Records’ to search for the citation. Tickets are available for online payment after they have been received from the Solicitor-General’s Office, which generally occurs 10 to 12 days before the court date listed on the citation.

For questions or additional information, call the Forsyth County Clerk of Courts at 770.781. 2120 or email traffic@forsythco.com.

NEWS AROUND FORSYTH

Gratitude Goodies Grows

Funky Mountain Flowers & Gifts Wants You!

Providing a meaningful and tasteful way to say thank you is what Gratitude Goodies is all about. “When I started this company, I wanted to ensure that all our baskets and gifts were received with a smile. Expressing gratitude is simple yet sometimes we tend to forget to communicate it or may not know the proper way to do so,” Campbell explains.

Mark your calendars for two fun-filled events hosted by Funky Mountain Flowers & Gifts. Their Holiday Open House takes place on Saturday, November 16 from 1 to 5 pm. Enjoy perusing through the shop, featuring local artists, new holiday products, cards, munchies, and beverages. On Tuesday, November 26, the store features their popular Wine & Design Party. “Grab a girlfriend and a bottle of wine and let us show you how to make a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table with fruits, flowers and candles,” says Brenda Moran, shop owner.

Gratitude Goodies began small and is now the largest gift basket company in Metro Atlanta, providing their services to clients in the Metro Atlanta area, Georgia and beyond. “We are truly honored to have been selected as the gift basket provider for so many companies in the area,” Campbell explains.

Funky Mountain is located at 515 Peachtree Parkway in Cumming. For more information visit www.FunkyMountain.com or call 770-781-4616.

Gratitude Goodies specializes in baskets and unique thank you items, including their custom-designed candy boxes, and is located at 433 Canton Rd., Suite 315 in Cumming. For more information call 770886-9598 or visit www.gratitudegoodies.com.

Sawnee–Cumming Optimist Club Installs New Leaders During a recent dinner and year-end celebration, new officers for the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club were installed. The 2013-2014 officers are: Randy O’Dell, President; Cheryl Kearney, Vice-President; Carolyn Gladden and Janice Phillips, Secretaries; Nancy & David Clackum, Treasurers; Randy O’Dell, Chaplain; and Michele Sansenbach, Past-President. Ms. Sansenbach will also serve as the Lt. Governor for the Zone 4 District of the Optimist Club for the State of Georgia. The Board of Directors for the term is Judy Edge, Janice Phillips, Ken Brendal, Char Greer, Mary Abate and Jodi Smith. Jodi Smith received a President’s Citation and O’Dell was recognized as the 2013 Optimist of the Year. Russ Thomas, a member of the Sawnee Forsyth Club will serve as the Governor-Elect for the organization. The club was founded in 2000 and since then has provided countless volunteer hours while serving community endeavors. With the collaboration and support of the Forsyth County Schools and the Forsyth County United Way, among others, the club is host to the largest Oratorical Contest in the State of Georgia and in the country.

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COMMUNITY

cot and Cindy Rucker embarked on the adventure of a lifetime when they opened the first Rucker Pet Store, Rucker Horse & Pet seven years ago. It was with the promise to offer top shelf pet products including a huge selection of grain free, holistic pet foods. From allergies to just plain picky eater, with our selection and expert advice, we can find the right food for you.

We carry merchandise for every pet need, from supplements to flea and tick prevention, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it all. And if grooming is literally a pain, visit one of the Rucker Pet & Wild Bird locations for the ultimate in self serve dog washes. All three locations are a birders paradise with a huge assortment of bird seed, feeders and houses. Rucker Horse & Pet boasts a saltwater dock diving dog pool but you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to jump, just come for a swim. Bring that puppy or old dog for some good exercise. Stay on top of our special events like Doggie Palooza and Dock Diving competitions by signing up for our email newsletters or going to www.ruckerpet.com. Our locations: Rucker Horse & Pet 3540 Keith Bridge Rd. Cumming, Ga. 770-8447275

PET

Rucker Pet & Wild Bird 5456 Bethelview Rd. Cumming, Ga. 770-888-3130 Rucker Pet & Wild Bird 3245 Peachtree Parkway Suwanee, Ga. 770-886-5660 Visit our website for hours of operation and additional info and like us on Facebook!

Provided by Rucker Horse & Pet

my forsyth

So You Want to Represent Yourself

any people ask, “Why waste the money and time on a lawyer when I can represent myself ?” Many question the need for attorneys. When people decide to represent themselves in lawsuits, especially small ones, they often leave courtrooms empty-handed and discouraged.

More than that, lawyers are problem solvers. They have exercised their minds to think outside the box in assisting their clients in finding solutions when all hope seems to be lost. Because most attorneys have been countlessly tested to think both analytically and logically, these tools add to their ability to represent you the best way possible.

Although lawyers cannot guarantee their clients a winning case, most however, pull their expertise, experience, and resources together to fight lawsuits. Knowing and studying the right information can make the difference between losing and winning a case. Attorneys have to go through many years of schooling, along with major examinations, before they can start practicing law. In addition, a good lawyer must gain experience in order to obtain working knowledge of the legal system. Knowing the intricate details of the law may be vital, but experience in the courtroom takes the theory of law into practice. If you know nothing about how the court system works, what evidence you need, how to choose witnesses for your case, and so on, your case is doomed to sink.

Due to most lawyers devoting a large portion of their lives to the study and practice of law, they acquire the skillsets and expertise necessary to aid people in their claims. They can often foresee what the judges, opposing lawyers, and jurors will do, think, and believe. That is why hiring lawyers, experts in their field of study, can be one of the best decisions you could ever make. Whether it is an injury or breach of contract, hiring an attorney can ultimately rescue you from being cheated of the compensation you deserve.

By: Steven Leibel

…lawyers are problem solvers.

Let’s suppose you did read up on the legal system and you felt comfortable enough to take on your case, is that enough? Asking the right questions, selecting the correct witnesses, providing the most essential documents, preparing significant questions, and knowing legal rules and jargon, all hold as fundamental elements that are crucial to winning a case. The average Joe does not become an expert over night by reading books. It takes much more than that. You wouldn’t operate a surgery on yourself, or anyone else for that matter, after reading up on a few articles or even reading an entire medical book about it. Lawyers know the rules. There are many technical requirements in preparing for a case. From knowing the rules of evidence to the art of cross-examination, most folks are not familiar with the procedures.

Steven Leibel is a personal injury attorney who has been practicing law since his graduation from Emory Law School in 1980. An active member in the community, Mr. Leibel has served as a Municipal Court Judge. He is a member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Bar Association, and the Atlanta Lawyers Club. He may be reached at 706-880-6614 or www.leibel.com.

Before hastily representing oneself, there are aspects to take into consideration. For example, public speaking remains to be one of people’s darkest nightmares and anxieties. Most people fear the mere thought of it. Unless you just happen to be a natural at public speaking or an expert at persuading an audience, or maybe even both, it is unlikely that you will know exactly how to phrase things to win your argument. This is one of the reasons people benefit from hiring lawyers. Attorneys get to deal with the burden of conveying a convincing argument, not you.

MY HOME

4440 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming GA 30041 770-887-6480 | www.forsythpets.org rescue@forsythpets.org All HSFC pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on all vaccinations at the time of adoption.

Princess

FOSTER HOMES NEEDED! We need Volunteers that can provide short-term in-home care for friendly dogs and cats. Call 770-887-6480 for details.

is a female Chihuahua with an estimated DOB of 2/24/2005.

Hi, my name is Cyd, and I’m a wonderful cat. I have beautiful blue eyes and a gorgeous white coat. I am a large elegant boy, with a fabulous personality. I was found emaciated with my arm stuck in my collar, which caused a huge infected wound under my arm and across my neck. Thankfully, the Humane Society saved me and made me better! I am a very loving boy, and I constantly purr, even when I get a bath! I am very gentle and caring. My favorite spot in the house is on someone’s lap. I have a relaxed disposition and am very easy going. I am currently in a nice foster home, so if you are interested in meeting me just call the shelter at 770-887-6480 and a meet and greet can be arranged. Thank you!

Hi, my name is Princess. My original parent passed away and I was rescued by the Humane Society. I like other small dogs and children. I would say I am a lap dog. I get very excited when my foster parents come home and especially when it is time to eat or get a treat. I have been waiting for the right family to accept my love.

cyd

Molly is a female Beagle/Hound mix with an estimated DOB of 12/20/2012. Sweet Molly girl loves to play! She is a little shy when first meeting people, but warms up fast. She is a very loving dog. Molly loves to run and play.

RANGER Hi, my name is Ranger, I am a two year old handsome tancolored kitty and I need my forever home! My siblings and I were born into the program here at the shelter. They have all been adopted and I’m the only one left. I can’t understand itI’m a sweet boy who gets along with everyone: cats, dogs, and kids. I am very affectionate, love to be patted, and still love to play. Let’s face it- I’m the perfect cat! Come by the shelter to meet me and play with me. I’ll be there waiting for you. The shelter is open every day from 12-6 p.m., and the address is 4440 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming. Hope to see you soon!

MOLLY MY FORSYTH

MY HOME

ithout a doubt, this is my favorite time of year to add special touches to various areas of my home. Personally, I have amassed a plethora of Christmas decorations through the years and yet I continue to purchase year after year. One area of the home that sometimes gets lost in the shuffle of decorating for Christmas is the entry or foyer. Remember that this is the first thing your guests will see as they enter your home for the celebrations of the season. I challenged myself to go through my home, my basement full of extra “stuff ” and 30 years of decorations to create Christmas entries. I honestly believe I could have gone on and on and on.... Challenge yourselves to do something different this year, and create your own entry Christmas theme. First photograph is of course the “before.” I certainly would love to see any of your creations, so please feel free to contact me with your pictures. I may just post them on my business Facebook page! Stay tuned! For your one hour complimentary Interior Design Consultation, remember to mention My Forsyth Magazine.

Personality. Creativity. Style. Combined to create your own interior design.

Atlanta Interiors by Veronique

770-238-6597 15

ongevity is something that has become an ever decreasing quality when it comes to just about everything. We live in a world that is chock full of disposable stuff, some good and some not so good. When it comes to heating and air conditioning systems it has become apparent to me over the last 25 years in the service business that proper maintenance of a system does add longevity.

conditioners; it is clear that an ounce of prevention really is worth more than a pound of cure. It’s important to know that air flow is everything because you are conditioning air- whether it be heating or cooling. When air flow is hindered either indoor (dirty filters), or outdoor (dirty or obstructed units) the system must run longer to achieve the same results as it did when it was new. This costs money and can shorten the lifespan of the system.

So what is involved in proper maintenance? Changing the air filter is the most important thing homeowners should and can do themselves. There are a few other things that should be looked at periodically by a qualified technician such as checking refrigerant pressures, supply air temperatures, cleaning the coil on the outdoor unit, listening for abnormal noises, and checking the operation of gas furnaces to insure that they are safe and performing at peak efficiency.

By: Tom Shelnutt

To add longevity to your system and save money over the life of that system take time to, I highly recommend that you have your system checked at least once a year.

We think nothing of changing oil and rotating tires on our vehicle and we more readily see the added value that gives, but our heating and cooling systems often are overlooked. I’ve seen the worst of the worst over the years in dirty filters and mud caked air

Tom Shelnutt is the owner of Shelnutt HVAC. He may be reached at 706-265-5854. www.shelnutthvac.com

Keeping your Summer Tropicals Healthy during the Fall Season

The first thing to consider is the cost of the annuals. Many of the annuals, such as begonias, vincas, and zinnias, are very cheap and can just be discarded at the end of the season. When you start buying chemicals, pots, grow lights or heating pads the advantage of saving annuals and tropicals quickly disappears. You can easily spend more on a grow light than you do on a new plant. When we try to keep them over the winter there are no guarantees either. For the expensive tropicals you may want to consider purchasing a grow light or bigger pot. If you plan to keep the tropicals healthy for next spring, use only the best soils and fertilizers because cheap soil causes problems by not having good drainage. It can even have weeds and soil born disease. I always say “Put a one dollar plant in a two dollar hole and avoid trouble later.”

I believe Majesty palms, Pony tail palms, Crotons and Bougainvillea are worth saving, as they can be pruned and saved rather easily without lights or many special accommodations. You need to make sure they have lots of light and are not under a heat vent. If they are stored under vents they dry out very quickly and can be a pain to keep. When bringing the plants in the house, check for any fungus or bugs and, if needed, treat them before bringing them into the house. Fungus and leaf spot can be treated with any fungicide such as Daconil. Always ensure they are safe for pets and children. When treating for insects we use a few different methods. The most effective is a systemic insecticide By: Casey Norris

any people have to face the dilemma of what to do with their tropical and annual plants during the fall and winter months.

Casey Norris may be reached at Ladyslipper Rare Plant Nursery at 770-345-2998.

Continued on page 44

my forsyth

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LIFESTYLE

FORSYTH FOODIE

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Lenny’s Sub Shop 1040 Market Place Blvd, Cumming 678-947-0336 Fax: 678-947-5343 5530 Windward Pkwy Ste 1010, Alpharetta 770-754-9280

Find Lenny’s on Facebook for daily specials! www.facebook.com/LennysAtlanta my forsyth

ake a m y e h t ore e Longm – Bruc

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FORSYTH FOODIE

MY BUSINESS

Operation 21

Can Football Save Your Business? Throughout the nation Labor Day marks the end of the summer season and the beginning of what is arguably our nation’s most fascinating time of year – football season. Although many business owners enjoy football for recreational purposes, they seldom look to the leaders of their favorite teams for guidance in their businesses. With this thought in mind, I am pleased to present the top three football principles that may be helpful for your business:

Principle No. 1: Train your team “No coach has ever won a game by what he knows; it’s what his players know that counts.” – Paul “Bear” Bryant, Former Head Coach, University of Alabama In order for a team to function effectively, each of its players must have a valid understanding of their role within the organization. Coaches reinforce this principle to their players through regimented practice sessions and exercises. However, most business leaders fail to offer such instruction to their employees. Recent studies in the European Business Journal confirm that businesses that formally develop and train their employees tend to operate with higher levels of productivity. TIP FOR YOUR PLAYBOOK: Lanier Technical College can assist your business with developing a customized training program for your business. For more information contact Tim McDonald at (770) 531-6338. Additionally the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission’s On the Job Training Program can reimburse eligible businesses with at least 50% of their training costs. For more information contact Niki Duncan at (770) 538-2734.

Principle No. 2: Develop a circle of support “I like the opportunity to get together with these coaches I’ve known over the years and exchange ideas. I think the process lends itself to sound judgments and a thorough evaluation of the teams.” – Vince Dooley, Former Head Coach, University of Georgia According to Constant Contact Inc.’s 2013 Small Businesses: Then and Now Survey, 59% of small business owners say it is harder to run a small business now than it was just five years ago. While the challenges of running a business may seem daunting, it is always helpful to lean on one’s peers for support. As stated by the English poet John Donne, “No man is an island.” The insights of fellow business owners may offer solutions to even the most impossible circumstances.

By: Randall Toussaint

Continued on page 44 Randall Toussaint is the Vice-President of the Cumming Forsyth Chamber of Commerce. He may be reached at 770.887-6461.

mymy forsyth forsyth

Leading Compliance Education When former Forsyth County Sheriff Deputy and retired United States Navy Chief Brian DeBlois realized the need for education on county ordinances pertaining to alcohol – pouring and promotion–the decision to share his knowledge with business owners was an easy one. “Violation of counties’ alcohol ordinances, whether intentional or not, can result in hefty fines, suspensions or even loss of a permit to sell beer, wine or spirits,” explained DeBlois, whose career in law enforcement spans 15 years. Operation 21 takes a proactive approach to compliance education.

“We teach not only the law but also the consequences if a violation occurs,” DeBlois added. “Alcohol and drugs don’t discriminate against anyone.” Classes include the liability and responsibility each citizen has when he or she makes a bad choice. Currently classes are taught by one of eight veteran law enforcement officers from the Forsyth County Sheriff ’s Office and the Alpharetta Police Department. Every instructor is a Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Certified Instructor. Operation 21 programs include a pre-and post-test (100% accuracy must be achieved for program completion).

Article provided by Operation 21 Operation 21 www.Operation21.com 678-947-1521

Why Can’t I Have My Book Out Next Month? e live in a want-it-now, get-it-now culture. Cell phones, DVRs, and eBooks have put everything we want at our fingertips. Book retailers like Amazon and Smashwords have programs that allow writers to upload a manuscript and start selling it as an eBook right away. So it comes as a surprise to many first-time authors that it will take an average of six to nine months for their book to be published. Keep in mind these timeframes are for self-publishing or hybrid publishing, not for traditional publishing, which can take two or three times longer. The timeframe for your book may vary—we see some books published in four and a half to five and a half months.

Design & Formatting: The design and formatting steps can vary greatly depending on how much design is being done and the type. Getting illustrations done for your book will add a lot of time onto the design process. Whereas just having a cover designed may only take about two weeks or so. Having the interior of your book formatted will also vary a lot depending on the elements of the book (photos, graphics, etc.), but plan on a couple of weeks.

Editing: The editing of the book is the most important, and also the most timeconsuming, part of the publishing process. Editorial can take anywhere from one

Proofing & Advance Review Copies: You should receive a printed proof of your book to review after the design and formatting is done. Take your time and

month to six months depending on the intensity of editorial needed. Proofreading and/or copyediting generally have quick turnaround times, while line and developmental editing will take much longer.

review it to make sure everything looks good, and submit any changes. After this time you’ll get a set of advance review copies for you to send to book reviewers to get early feedback on your book, submit to people you’d like to get endorsements from, or use for any advance marketing efforts. They may or may not have the final cover on the book. Plan on a month or two of getting feedback from sending out the advance review copies. Revisions: After you have gotten feedback from sending out your advance review copies, you may work with your editor to go Continued on page 44 By: Ahmad Meradji

MY BUSINESS

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

hen Harry Met Sally is one of my all-time favorite movies and I’ve always enjoyed Billy Crystal when he’s hosted the Oscars, so I consider myself a fan. Even as a fan, reading his memoir was never at the top of my to-do list. I actually bought the audio version of the book on a lark, after seeing him interviewed on The Today Show. I’m so glad that I did.

In honor of his sixtyfifth birthday, Crystal is reflecting on his life and sharing wisdom and life experiences. He knows he’s lucky and repeatedly states, “It’s a great life.” He fondly recalls his 1950’s childhood, growing up the youngest of three boys in a close-knit Jewish family. As a child he loved to entertain his family and make his dad laugh. Sadly, the happy childhood came to an abrupt end for Crystal as a teenager when his father died suddenly of a heart attack. Unfortunately, the two argued on the day of his dad’s death and it affected the comedian throughout his life. Crystal married the girl he met on the beach when he was nineteen and they’re still together today. It’s a happy marriage based on love, trust, humor, friendship and their mutual devotion to family. They’ve raised two wonderful daughters, who’ve given them four grandchildren. Crystal relishes his role as a grandfather and writes poignantly about what it’s meant to him. In addition to personal anecdotes, this book is full of some great Hollywood stories that will both shock and delight. Crystal’s large circle of friends includes Robin Williams, Rob Reiner, Robert De Niro, Meg Ryan, Jay Leno and David Letterman - just to name a few. He’s also deeply entrenched in the world of sports, having personal relationships with Muhammad Ali, Joe Torre, Derek Jeter and Bob Costas, as well at the late Mickey Mantle and Howard Cosell. Crystal is a passionate life-long baseball fan. When he writes of his love for baseball, the Yankees in particular, I got chills. And I’m a Red Sox gal!

By: Allie Smith

Name dropping aside, the book is also deeply personal and surprisingly inspiring. I’ve always liked this man and now, I respect him. His musings on aging, spiritually, politics, modern technology, mortality, family, love and gratitude will bring you to tears and make you laugh. Seriously, I had no idea just how funny he is. Quite simply, Billy Crystal didn’t fool me, he dazzled me. Allie Smith is an avid reader, traveler and the mother of four children. You can follow her on Goodreads or her blog www.thelatchkeymom.com. She can be reached at asreadsforsyth@gmail.com.

my forsyth

t’s that time of year. As I sit in my cozy spot on the couch drinking my coffee, the notion of the holidays coming up creates a moment of sweet reflection of traditions and family, great meals, eggnog and…Oh gosh, STRESS! My mind starts to race as I contemplate the numerous things that “need” to be accomplished in the next 40 days…ughhh

the Christmas card list? Is there a decent family photo, NO, oh great should we hire a photographer? Shutterfly, or Walmart? There’s the Angel tree at school, donating toys at Church, volunteering at the Salvation Army. The children want new smart phones and the latest version of ipad, while your daughter is asking for a Juicy Couture purse…how does she even know what that is?? So do we dip into the 401K or get real about what we can really afford?

Does this happen to you? The holiday season, theoretically, sounds so fun with all the parties, family gatherings, giving and helping others, which is wonderful! But then there is the opposing reality.

Is your neck getting stiff just thinking about all this “stuff ”! Phew, isn’t this supposed to be the season of Joy and Peace?

We finish trick or treating and then it’s off to the races. What will we do for Thanksgiving? Should we host at our home, travel to family, get together with friends who are local, volunteer to serve others. etc?

A few years ago I had an Aha moment, a paradigm shift, if you will. It dawned on me that I don’t have to do all these things and I can By: Christine M. Roberts

Continued on page 44

Now on to Christmas in, gulp, 27 days! There is teacher gifts, school parties, what do we get for family who we see once a year? Where is

Christine Roberts is a volunteer with Mentor Me, a local non-profit agency that matches caring volunteers with children who need mentors. She is also an author, motivational speaker, certified child advocate, former corporate manager, a wife, and a mother of two children. She may be reached at christine@cmrobertsllc.com.

SYDNEY

ANGELS WILL APPEA FROM

ydney, you have cancer. Collier, you have cancer. Katielee, you have cancer. These four words altered the lives of three students in Forsyth County forever. Each of us heard this anguished announcement from our parents. Sydney Ridings, Collier Cayce, and I, were all student athletes. We lost some of the innocence of our young lives with the diagnoses of Ewing Sarcoma, a bone cancer.

Upon entering the cancer world each of us was amazed at the outpouring of angelic kindness from friends and strangers. Maria Catinella, a fellow cancer survivor, told my dad, “Angels will appear from nowhere.” She was right. Once my family and I were at McDonald’s when a man handed me a newspaper ad featuring a drawing of flowers, “I want you to have these. I’m sure things have been a little rough for you lately,” he said. After showing my father, I turned to thank him, but he was nowhere to be seen. He seemed to have appeared from nowhere. Ask any family struggling with childhood cancer and

they will speak of similar occurrences. Each one of us has had strangers stop to express concern, love, and support. Many asked our name and promised to pray for us. Some angels seemed to know just when to say, “You are so beautiful.”

Sydney, a 7th grader at Liberty Middle School, has often had strangers pay for her family’s meal. These angels never revealed themselves. Perhaps it is our uniform of a bald head and no eyebrows which allows angels to spot us easily in the crowd.

While Collier and I are in remission, Sydney’s cancer has recently returned. She will undergo surgery this month in Houston, Texas. My first day of chemotherapy in April, 2012 was Sydney’s last. Sydney was the light at the end of my tunnel. She remains my inspiration. Even with everything that has happened to her she still continues to wear her trademark warm and beautiful smile. Now it is my turn to be the light at the end of the Sydney’s tunnel.

Angels will appear from nowhere. my forsyth

I hope I can shine as bright into her life as she has shone into mine.

I HOPE I CAN SHINE… Collier said it the best for the three of us, “If we can get through cancer we can get through anything.”

Angels will appear from nowhere could not have been more true than when my dad stepped on a somewhat broken angel charm in the parking garage at Scottish Rite Hospital. This broken angel charm represents the three of us. We’re strong, just a little bit broken. Throughout my treatment my dad faithfully carried his good luck angel in his pocket. Recently he placed his angel into Sydney’s hand. He told her, “This angel is powerful medicine. She got Katielee through her darkest hour and she will get you through too.” The support Sydney, Collier, and I have received began with our schools. South Forsyth Middle School’s football team made sure Collier didn’t miss any important moments. They FaceTimed him into pep rallies and huddles. The cheerleaders put his initials and number on their pompoms. They even made a banner for him. “I know a whole lot of people care about me,” said Collier, now a freshman at Lambert High School. Sydney was a cheerleader throughout elementary school and had a spot reserved for her on Liberty’s cheerleader squad. South Forsyth High School’s softball team wore “K” stickers on their helmets to show their support for me.

One of the biggest worries you have during cancer treatments are your friends will forget you at school, but in reality the opposite happens.

Anonymous angels along with friends, church members, neighbors, coaches, teachers, and classmates inundate the families with heart-felt cards, flowers, candy, gift-cards, meals, and prayers. They even set up fundraisers in your honor. There is an overwhelming amount of good people in Forsyth County. They are the Angels of Forsyth.

Once again we need the Angels of Forsyth to come through for Sydney. I ask you to pray for Sydney. By: Katielee Kaner

KATIELEE

COLLIER 25

Katielee is a senior at South Forsyth High School. She may be reached at katieleekaner@myforsyth.com.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Urinary Incontinence in Women “Wait, don’t make me laugh!” Have you ever uttered those words?

Conservative measures involving strengthening of pelvic floor muscles through individual exercises or those facilitated by specialized physical therapists. Certain vaginal devices called Is urinary protective undergarments part of your shopping list? Are pessaries are another option to help manage anatomical defects. Lastly, quick, minor procedures are also available to address the you afraid to jump on the trampoline with your kids or concerned anatomic disorders that can cause stress incontinence. that you smell like urine during a run or intercourse? Urinary incontinence is not “just part of being a woman”. Rest assured, the Urge incontinence is when leakage occurs with urgency. This majority of urinary problems can easily be addressed with modern is more common in the older population. The bladder is a medicine. All you need to do is talk to your doctor. muscle, and the overactivity of this muscle is felt to be the culprit.

Stress incontinence is when involuntary leakage occurs with effort or exertion such as sneezing, coughing or laughing. This is the most common incontinence in younger women, especially following childbearing. Depending on the severity and underlying reason for stress incontinence, the most common causes can easily be addressed with either conservative or surgical treatment.

Personalized

and balanced approach to gynecological and obstetrical

Care.

Treatment involves primarily controlling the overactivity in the muscle through a variety of medicines. If muscle control does not achieve the desired outcome, a secondary approach aims at treating the nerves controlling the bladder muscle. Mixed incontinence is when different incontinence types coexist in an individual. This incontinence is seen more prevalent in the older population with stress and urge incontinence coexisting. Management depends on the careful assessment of the causes and addressing them individually. Overflow incontinence is involuntary and has no specific link. It can be intermittent or continuous and have many causes including problems with the bladder muscle or the nerves controlling it, a urinary obstruction or systemic medical illness. The treatments for this form of incontinence are dependent on the underlying cause.

Incontinence can be managed well by trained professionals. Social withdrawl or concern over leakage need not be an issue anymore with modern medicine’s approaches to incontinence. It’s time to take control of your life and simply talk to your doctor.

Christopher E. Bassil, M.D.

Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine and it remains undertreated worldwide. Incontinence may be related to problems with anatomy or medical illness, and the types of incontinence fall into four general categories: stress, urge, mixed and overflow. Each of these has distinct features and require a trained professional to diagnose and treat.

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my forsyth

Dr. Bassil obtained his medical degree from the University of Miami in 2004. He completed residency at Baylor College of Medicine in 2008 where he served as Administrative Chief Resident. He serves on Northside Hospital’s Perinatal and Continuing Medical Education Committees. He is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Bassil has a special interest in urinary incontinence, minimally invasive surgery and both, pelvic floor and pelvic pain disorders. He performs advanced surgeries utilizing the da Vinci robot.

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Life Insurance: Do you really need it?

ife insurance isn’t just for married couples with children. The need for life insurance is much broader. “Anybody who would experience a financial loss or an emotional loss after a death will need some type of life insurance,” says Marvin Feldman, president and CEO of the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education.

Who is it for? Having dependents of any kind necessitates life insurance. Here are examples: BB Unmarried couples. Unmarried individuals may have a significant other who relies on their support. Life insurance can help provide for them. BB Stay-at-home spouses. Life insurance isn’t just for breadwinners. It can help cover the cost of replacing the services of stay-at-home parents. BB Single parents. These individuals are typically the sole source of support for their children. Life insurance can help provide for children financially should their parent die.

BB Singles. Single individuals could be responsible for aging parents or may have significant debt. “Life insurance helps make sure those debts are paid,” Feldman says.

BB Settling estate taxes

BB Retirees. Insurance can help replace income from part-time work, Social Security benefits, pensions or other employer benefits. It helps spouses continue living as they’re accustomed.

BB Replacing income

BB Empty nesters. Older adults may have custody of a grandchild or provide support for other family members. Life insurance may help this care to continue. BB Business owners. Life insurance has many benefits for business owners, such as helping protect family members from taking on a person’s professional debt, or providing funds for survivors to buy out the deceased’s interest. What can it cover? Beyond paying for final expenses, loved ones can put these death benefits toward: BB Paying off debt

BB Contributing to charity BB Creating an inheritance BB Replacing employer benefits Are there additional benefits? Some policies also offer living benefits. Whole policies and universal life policies accumulate value that can be tapped as retirement income or used to help cover unexpected expenses. Universal life policies also may have riders allowing chronically ill policyholders to withdraw the face amount during their lifetimes to help cover long-term care costs or to prepare loved ones financially before passing. Decide which type of policy best suits your needs. For more assistance, contact your State Farm® agent, Tyler Miers.

BB Financing an education

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Northside Vascular Surgery Northside Vascular Surgery provides full service, state-of-the-art care for all vascular

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States suffers from a stroke. That translates to roughly 795,000 Americans annually, 130,000 of whom will die from their stroke according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

The risk of developing carotid artery disease increases with age. However, certain lifestyle factors and medical conditions also increase your chances of arteriosclerosis and carotid artery blockage. These include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary artery disease, obesity and family history of stroke. Stroke can cause death or significant disability, such as paralysis, speech difficulties, vision problems and cognitive or behavioral deficits .

complex. For more information about

There are many things you can do to greatly reduce your risk of developing carotid artery disease and stroke.

carotid artery disease, stroke and other

Get annual check-ups. High blood pressure has no symptoms, so get your blood pressure checked annually to know where you stand. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage your blood pressure, including lifestyle changes and/or adding certain medications to your regimen.

high blood pressure, heart problems, and diabetes. These conditions make carotid artery disease and stroke more likely. Losing as little as 10 pounds can make a difference in blood pressure levels.

vascular services, go to www.nvs-ga.com.

Adopt a healthy diet. A low-fat, low-salt regimen that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables can reduce elevated blood pressure and eliminate or decrease the need for blood pressure medication. Eating foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high blood cholesterol and reduce your risk of atherosclerosis.

Quit Smoking. Smoking damages and clogs up arteries, raising your risk of carotid artery disease. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit. Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which causes high blood pressure. Try limiting alcohol to 2 drinks for men and 1 drink for women.

Get moving. Having a sedentary lifestyle increases your risks of developing carotid artery disease. Make exercising for at least 30 minutes for five days a week a priority. Walking is a good choice. Shed excess weight. Being overweight makes it more likely you will develop

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By: Joseph Ricotta, MD, MS, FACS

arotid artery disease occurs when cholesterol plaques clog the blood vessels (carotid arteries) that supply blood to your brain. It is a major cause of stroke, which is the fourth leading cause of death among Americans and the number one cause of disability in adults.

conditions, from the simplest to the most

Joseph Ricotta, MD, MS, FACS, Chair, Northside Vascular Surgery and Medical Director, Northside Hospital Heart and Vascular Institute.

Tips for Healthier Eyes and Better Vision

am often asked if there are tips for protecting and improving one’s eyesight. The checklist below, provided by All About Vision®, is one I share with my patients regularly. Perhaps it can help you improve your vision and eye health.

BB Take care of your contacts. See your eye doctor annually if you wear contacts, and be sure to clean, disinfect and replace your lenses as directed to avoid discomfort and eye infections. BB Wear safety eyewear. Experts say 90 percent of eye injuries can be prevented with safety glasses and sports eyewear.

BB Eat smart. A diet rich in fruits, leafy vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids may reduce your risk of dry eyes and macular degeneration.

BB Reduce computer eye strain. Rest your eyes from computer work every 20 minutes to relieve strain and avoid dry eyes. Also, ask your eye doctor about stress-relieving computer glasses.

BB Quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other serious eye problems. If you smoke, quit. If you don’t, don’t start.

BB Consider sports eyewear. Protect your eyes, increase comfort and improve your performance with specially tinted sports eyewear for your particular sport or outdoor activity.

BB Get moving. Research suggests exercise may reduce your risk of glaucoma and diabetes-related vision loss. BB Schedule regular eye exams. Kids and seniors, especially, should have comprehensive eye exams yearly to monitor vision changes. BB Upgrade your eyeglasses. Ask your eye doctor about new high-definition lenses and anti-reflective coatings that may provide sharper vision than your current glasses.

By: Mira Sivan, O.D., COVD

Continued on page 44

BB Wear sunglasses. Protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays may reduce your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration— especially if you wear sunglasses throughout your lifetime.

my forsyth

Dr. Mira Sivan is an optometrist with a private practice located at The Vickery in Cumming. She may be reached at 678-648-5185. Visit her web site at www. fyeo-eyecare.com

Eating Low Carb

So what does low carbohydrate intake mean and how can it be beneficial to one’s health? A low carbohydrate diet can range from 50 to 150 grams a carbohydrate a day. Each individual has different nutrient needs. There has not

been a specific value determined to define the amount of carbohydrate grams in a low carb diet. The values can vary due to such things as health status and physical activity.

Vitamin A aids in making your immune system stronger and lastly; Vitamin K helps wound healing, bone health and prevents hardening of the arteries.

There are many benefits to consuming a low carb diet. Many low carb diets are naturally gluten free (Gluten is a protein is found in grains, such as wheat, barley, and rye). Additionally, a low carb diet can give a jump start in reaching weight loss goals. Furthermore, it can be beneficial to individuals with nutrition related diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Consuming a low carbohydrate diet can allow individuals to experiment and try a variety of healthful non-starchy vegetables. Some examples of non-starchy vegetables are spinach, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, and mushrooms. These vegetables are rich in the fiber, Vitamin C, A, and K. Vitamin C is protects against cell damage;

Fresh ‘n Fit Cuisine™ has created an exciting NEW Low Carb Menu that offers seasonal carbohydrate controlled meals that let you stay on stay on track with your weight loss and/or maintenance goals. See our complete menu at freshnfitcuisine.com.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By: Julia Lott

n recent years, many people have adopted a reduced carb diet lifestyle. It seems that the Low Carb diet is here to stay. First of all, let’s define what a carbohydrate is? A carbohydrate is a compound composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which includes fiber, starches and sugars. Once eaten, the body turns carbohydrates into sugar called glucose. Glucose is then used for energy. If there is any leftover glucose not used up for energy it is stored as fat. A carbohydrate is one of three macronutrients that we eat every day; the other two being fat and protein. In general, these three macronutrients create our total daily calorie intake.

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 for health conscious individuals. She may be reached at 678-208-0341.

Flavorful Foods for all Ages

What to Expect from a SAT® or ACT® Prep Program

Tired of ordering off the kids’ menu? Why not try some different foods that can make your mouth water? I was over it when

I saw chicken fingers on the menu in a Greek restaurant. If you are at a Mexican, Greek, or Italian restaurant and see the same old foods on the kids’ menu, why not try something new? Mexican foods that I recommend you try are tacos and nachos. I like tacos because they have the perfect combination of meat, cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce all in a crunchy shell. Do you like fish sticks? Then you might even like a fish taco-crispy fried fish in a soft tortilla. Another fun choice is the nachos-juicy beef, lots of chips and cheese-yummy! I like a little spice so I load up on the salsa, a tasty way to get in something healthy. Good choices at a Greek restaurant are a gyro or a flatbread pizza. Gyros are like a Greek sandwich with meat and lettuce rolled up in soft pita bread. The best part of the gyro is probably the tzatziki sauce-hard to pronounce but full of goodness! The pizza I had at a Greek restaurant was a lot like other pizza but served on a really thin crisp crust, and it was awesome! My favorite choice at an Italian restaurant is the pasta Alfredo-all creamy and delicious (even found on a kids’ menu!). Some other good choices are pasta with shrimp or chicken parmesan-a combo of fried chicken and spaghetti-nothing wrong with that! I hope you can see that there are lots of choices besides cheeseburgers, macaroni and cheese, and corndogs when you go out with your family. Break out of your shell and try something new. Since lots of these foods I recommend aren’t on the kids’ menu, try sharing something with one of your parents.

1. A Customized Program When it comes to SAT® or ACT® prep program or course, one size does not fit all. Huntington’s prep programs are carefully designed after each student takes an initial test that evaluates his or her current abilities, strengths and weaknesses. Every student learns differently and tests differently, and a teen will gain the most from a program that is tailore to his or her needs.

2. Tops and Strategies to Answer Questions The SAT® is scored differently than the ACT®, so depending on the exam your student is preparing for, he or she may want to take a slightly different approach to narrowing down multiple choice questions. If your student is taking both exams, he or she will need to know the differences in how each is graded. The best prep program will teach your student how each of these exams is scored and equip him or her with proven testing strategies.

3. A Focus on Time Management Improving your student’s test-taking speed s one of the most important parts of effective SAT® or ACT® test prep. A comprehensive test prep program should teach students to manage their time well. Students must also get deeply familiat with the ACT® and SAT® structure and question types so they can quickly recognize wrong answers.

4. One-To-One Tutoring with a Professional Tutor Don’t just hire any tutor to help your teen prepare for the SAT® or ACT®. Look for professional tutors who are knowledgeable about the content of the SAT® or ACT®. What training has the turo gone through? Is he of she state certified? At Huntington, tutors are all college educated and are either state certified or Huntongton certified. All SAT® and ACT® tutors go through extensive training. In addtion, Huntington tutors work with students individually, not in groups, to ensure each student receives the customized education he or she needs to perform his of her best on the SAT® or ACT®.

5. A Focus on Practice On of the most helpful ways to improve test-taking ability is to take practive exams. Without taking several full-length, timed practice exams, students simply cannot get a good fell for what the SAT® or ACT® will feel like on the test day. Practice exams are also a good way to get a sense of the various question types that your student may face. At Huntigton Learning Center, we take great pride in our exam preparatory programs-and history has proven that our approach is very successful in helping teens perform their best on these all-important exams. If you have any questions, give us a call. We’re here to help.

Ava is a student at Cumming Elementary School. She enjoys trying new foods and restaurants, and sharing her experiences in her column, Youth Foodie Review. Ava is nine years old.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

By: Marc Turk

By: Ava Clavijo

Stay tuned as I visit local restaurants and keep exploring new things for us to eat. My next adventure is a local Italian deli. I’ll let you know what new foods I try.

f you’re considering enrolling your teen in a college entrance exam preparatory course, you’ll have many options to choose from. From self-stufy courses to independent tutors to a range of learning center that specialize in SAT® and ACT® prep, it may feel likea an overwhelming decision.

Marc Turk is the Executive Director of Huntington Learning Center in Cumming. He may be reached at 770-292-8994.

SAVE $100

WHEN YOU CALL BEFORE 12/31/13

CUMMING, GA 5485 Bethelview Road (770) 292-8994

REFERENCE

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

Midway Elementary

North Forsyth Middle

West Forsyth High

4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta, (770) 475-6670 Principal: Todd Smith tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

3645 Coal Mountain Drive (770) 889-0743 Principal: Jeff Hunt jhunt@forsyth.k12.ga.us

4155 Drew Road (770) 888-3470 Acting Principal: Betty Pope rgill@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sawnee Elementary

Otwell Middle

1616 Canton Highway, (770) 887-6161 Principal: Dr. Eileen Nix ecnix@forsyth.k12.ga.us

605 Tribble Gap Road (770) 887-5248 Principal: Steve Miller stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Settles Bridge Elementary

2800 Holtzclaw Road, (770) 781-2240 Principal: Barbara Vella bvella@forsyth.k12.ga.us

600 James Burgess Road, Suwanee, (770) 887-1883 Principal: Donna Morris dmorris@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Chestatee Elementary

Sharon Elementary

6945 Keith Bridge Road, Gainesville, (770) 887-2341 Principal: Polly Tennies ptennies@forsyth.k12.ga.us

3595 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee, (770) 888-7511 Principal: Amy Bartlett abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Coal Mountain Elementary

Shiloh Point Elementary

3455 Coal Mountain Drive, (770) 887-7705 Principal: Debbie Smith dsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

8145 Majors Road, (678) 341-6481 Principal: Rebecca Johnson rjohnson@forsyth.k12.ga.us

540 Dahlonega Street, (770) 887-7749 Principal: Pam Pajerski ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us

6200 Dahlonega Highway, (678) 965-5020 Principal: Paige Andrews pandrews@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Daves Creek Elementary

Vickery Creek Elementary

3740 Melody Mizer Lane, (770) 888-1223 Principal: Eric Ashton eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

6280 Post Road, (770) 346-0040 Principal: Kristan Riedinger kriedinger@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

Whitlow Elementary

Haw Creek Elementary

3655 Castleberry Road, (678) 965-5090 Principal: Lynne Castleberry lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us

2555 Echols Road, (678) 965-5070 Principal: Dr. Amy Davis ardavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Middle Schools Lakeside Middle

6205 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee, (678) 965-5041 Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us

2565 Echols Road (678) 965-5080 Principal: Debbie Sarver dsarver@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Mashburn Elementary 3777 Samples Road, (770) 889-1630 Principal: Tracey Smith tbsmith@forysth.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 REFERENCE

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

High Schools Forsyth Central High

Montessori Academy at Sharon Springs

520 Tribble Gap Road (770) 887-8151 Principal: Rudy Hampton rhampton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

2830 Old Atlanta Road, (770) 205-6277 Head of School, Kathy Lindaman www.montessoriacademygeorgia.com

Lambert High School

Johns Creek Elementary

7455 Wallace Tatum Road, (678) 455-4500 Principal: Charley Stalder cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Riverwatch Middle 610 James Burgess Road, Suwanee (678) 455-7311 Principal: Kathy Carpenter kcarpenter@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sliver City Elementary

Cumming Elementary

Matt Elementary

Piney Grove Middle 8135 Majors Road (678) 965-5010 Principal: Terri North tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Private Schools Covenant Christian Academy

805 Nichols Road (678) 965-5050 Principal: Dr. Gary Davison gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth High 3635 Coal Mountain Drive (770) 781-6637 Principal: Beth Hebert bhebert@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth High 585 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 781-2264 Principal: Jeff Cheney jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us

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

Pinecrest Academy 955 Peachtree Parkway, (770) 888-4477 Head of School: Fr. Robert Presutti www.pinecrestacademy.com

School Information www.forsyth.K12.GA.US

My forsyth

What’s Wrong With People?

I realize that I was raised by southern ladies to be a southern lady and I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but one young man I saw at the airport would have even his mother cringing at his appearance in public. He had a pink Mohawk, tattoos on all exposed skin, and piercings in his lips, nose, eyebrows and ears. His fingernails were painted black; he wore black eyeshadow and lipstick. His skin was pasty white and black tear drops and a black rose tattooed on his face. He had on plaid pants and a striped shirt. The language coming out of his mouth would make a sailor wince. I could only shake my head and wonder how he came to think that his appearance was appealing.

Now, the way I was raised, my mother or grandmother or aunts would know exactly what thoughts were in my head and I would be in trouble even if I didn’t voice those thoughts. I admit, I usually blurted out my thinking before I was finished thinking it, so I was in trouble a lot. What’s wrong with people? Is it too much trouble to teach your children how they should behave? Are we too worried about offending them? At a local restaurant one night, we watch two children proceed to totally unnerve everyone around them with their atrocious behavior while their parents never told them to sit down or to use their inside voice or don’t run in front of waiters carrying food trays, or look in another lady’s purse, or take the magazine from a gentleman and throw it on the floor. When they were finally shown to table, all those around us breathed a sigh of relief. My daughter says to me, “Mom, if I had even thought for one second about behaving like that, I wouldn’t have done it because of the consequences I would have endured for misbehaving in public. She Continued on page 43 By: Neida Streit

or the past few months, I have been noticing that it seems, to me anyway, the people in this world are increasingly rude, mean, uncaring and even less intelligent. I like to people-watch. I have had many opportunities lately to people-watch, with going to the airport a couple of times, a concert and various outings, even at the grocery store. Every time I think I have seen it all, someone manages to surprise me! What’s wrong with people?

My first thought when I saw a lady with the beehive hairdo and hat with birds and flowers all over it – oops, is something living in that hair? The next thought was is that a real birds nest on her head? Shaking my head in amazement, I thought and she thinks she looks awesome!

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.

Develop a Good Habit

There are some good habits worth keeping in my life: eating right, exercising, reading God’s Word, praying. There’s another one that should top my list, but I have to admit I often overlook it: thanking God for His care and provision for me.

Why I forget If I’m honest, a bad habit often causes me to forget to be thankful – taking things for granted. I expect to be healthy every day. It’s only when I wake up feeling under the weather that I realize good health isn’t a given. And that’s just one example. I live in a free country. I have more than enough food to eat. I experience God’s grace and mercy in my life every day. The list goes on and on. The Psalmist accurately describes the goodness of God in our lives: “O give my forsyth

thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever,” (Psalm 107:1). We need to remember to thank Him.

Developing a new habit So how do we develop a habit of being thankful? Here are a few ideas: 1. Read about God’s faithfulness in the past: God delivered the Israelites from Pharaoh and his army. Moses and Miriam led the people in songs of thanksgiving. (Exodus 15); God spared the Jews from slaughter in Esther’s day (Esther 9); God shut the lions’ mouths so Daniel wasn’t harmed (Daniel 6). 2. Make a list of how God has provided for you physically and spiritually: Lamentations 3:22-23; Matthew 7:11; Matthew 28:20; Ephesians 1:3-7 3. Set aside a time every day to thank and praise Him: instead of just making requests during your prayer time, begin with a special time of thanksgiving. Psalm 118:24, 28-29; Psalm 100; Psalm 146; Psalm 150

4. Tell your friends what He’s doing in your life: make it a point to share how the Lord has blessed you. John 4:29; Mark 5:20; Luke 8:39 5. Develop a good habit - let praise and thanksgiving be a regular part of your life! What step will you take to include praise and worship in your life today? Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me of the importance of praising You. Forgive me when I take Your blessings for granted. Help me develop a habit of being thankful every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By: Maria Morgan

’m a creature of habit. Change is a little scary for me – even when it comes to my hairstyle. After fixing my hair the same way for fifteen years, I think I’m ready for something different. A style that requires less time and hairspray is what I’m after. Notice I didn’t make any promises; after all, old habits die hard!

Maria I. Morgan is an inspirational writer and speaker. She’s passionate about sharing the truths of God’s Word with today’s generation. She lives in Georgia with her husband and daughter. Visit her on the web and download a free copy of her eBook God Speaking atmariaimorgan.com.

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FAITH

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HOUSES OF WORSHIP

REFERENCE

Non-Denominational Eastgate Church 2820 Brookwood Road, Cumming 770-888-8852 Sunday Morning Worship Times: 9:00 & 11:00 am Wednesday Night services 7:00 pm Pastors: David & Robin Houtsma www.eastgatechurch.org

Baptist Antioch Baptist Church 2465 Antioch Road (770) 887-6900 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Service: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. AWANA: Sunday at 6 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Pastor: Travis Bridgeman www.welcometoantioch.org

Sunday Evening: 5 p.m. Wednesday Evening & AWANA: 7 p.m. Pastor: Chris Grinstead www.ghbcc.org

Longstreet Baptist Church 6868 Campground Road, (770) 889-1959 www.longstreetchurch.com Sunday School: 10 a.m. Worship Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday night adult and youth activities

North Lanier Baptist Church 829 Atlanta Highway, (770) 781-5433 Church service times: 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Bible Studies 11 a.m. Celebration Worship Service (main auditorium) Hispanic Service is at 10:30 a.m. in our Activities Center

Cumming Baptist Church

Refuge 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

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

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

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

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

The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit

Greater Heights Baptist Church

3074 Bethelview Rd., (770) 781-5250 Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 10 AM Pastor: Fr. Barnabas Powell www.stsrni.org

3790 Post Road, (770) 887-4802 Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11 a.m.

724 Pilgrim Mill Road, (770) 887-8190 Services: Thursdays 12 noon, Sundays 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Rector: Keith Oglesby www.ecohs.net

Greek Orthodox Saints Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene Greek Orthodox Church

my forsyth

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 livingfaithoffice@bellsouth.net www.livingfaithlutheran.com facebook/livingfaithlutheranchurch

Christ The King Lutheran Church (Evangelical Lutheran Church In America) 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Rd. Cumming, Ga. 30040 770-889-5328 ctklutheran.com Sunday Worship Service 8 & 11 AM – Traditional 9 AM – Blended 10 AM – Discipleship Hour (Sun. School)

OTHER Baha’is of Forsyth County 1-800-22-UNITE www.forsythbahais.org Crossroads Church of the Nazarene 6160 Southard Trace Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 977 0328 www.mycrossroadschurch.net

Castle Christian Church 3149 Old Atlanta Road, Suwanee (678) 648-5248 www.castlechristianchurch.com Sunday Worship: 10 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Senior Minister: Jason Rodenbeck jason@castlechristian.com

Family By Faith Worship Center 4805 Atlanta Highway, Alpharetta (Midway Elementary School), (678) 230-4800 Small Groups: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:30 a.m. Nursery available Pastor: Randy Grimes www.familybyfaith.com

First Christian Church 1270 Sawnee Dr., Cumming, (770) 887-5542 Pastor Stan Percival www.fccga.org

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 510 Brannon Road, Cumming, GA (678) 455-5290 - Hall Phone Worship Service: 9 am, 11:30 am, and 2 pm Visitors Welcome Nursery available

LifePoint Christian Church 3140 Old Atlanta Road Cumming, GA 30041 Sunday Small Groups: 9:00 a.m. Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: Chris Stovall www.lifepoint.org

NewSong Community Church 433 Canton Road, Suite 306, Located across from Ingles, behind the National Guard in Building 300, (770) 888-5212 Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Case Koolhaas www.newsongweb.org

Rameshori Buddhist Center 130 Allen Road, Unit B Sandy Springs, 30328, (404) 255-1585

Presbyterian Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church 7620 Lanier Drive, (770) 887-6801 Sunday School all ages: 9:45 am Sunday Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m. Childcare available Pastor: John S. Martin www.deercreekshores.org email: dcspres@comcast.net

Chalcedon Presbyterian Church 302 Pilgrim Mill Road, 770-205-9390 www.chalcedon.org | www.rpcus.com Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Pastor, Dr. Joseph C. Morecraft, III.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

existence is in Genesis 1:1, “In the beginning God” and His divine person as a trinity stated in verse 2 (the Spirit), verse 26 (the Spirit and the Son John 1:1) when He said “Let us make man”. Scripture ends with the Revelation of Jesus Christ returning righteousness to mankind and restoration to His earth. While learning about God, we are taught how to live, “horse sense”.

he sap was low. It was time to cut fence posts. I can’t recall knowing about treated wood 55 years ago. Cedar, walnut and others like locust were wood which lasted 15-20 years in the ground without significant deterioration. Lacking the luxury of a chain saw, an elderly neighbor taught me how an axe can make chips fly and cause a tree to fall in your chosen direction.

Before placing some of his land with a real estate agent our neighbor offered to sell us acreage. When Dad sold our largest hardwoods to a lumber company to raise money, I was pleased. The biggest hardwood stood on a bank near the serpentine dirt road that wound past our house. To approach this tree meant it was likely I’d be stung by bees angry at me for disrupting their flight pattern.

Good “horse sense”

Our nation badly lacks reasonable rational clear thinking. Ronald Regan said “. . . morality’s foundation is religion, religion and politics are necessarily related. We need religion as a guide. . . . we are imperfect . . . only those humble enough to admit they’re sinners can bring to democracy the tolerance it requires in order to survive.” Biblical answers which guided our nation through difficult times are derided and restricted. Government’s solution for our debt is more debt during a recession created by over spending. II Thessalonians 3:10-11 teaches responsibility, if any would not work neither should he eat . . . there are some . . . disorderly, working not.” I Timothy 5:17 teaches fairness, “The labourer is worthy of his reward.” When a nation rewards citizens for not working by providing things that should be their responsibility, (“. . . a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: so shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man.” Proverbs 6:10-11) its ruin, like expecting a baby, is a matter of time and its future will be taken from them like a hold up.

Why didn’t Dad sell the bee tree? It was the largest tree and we needed the money. Good “horse sense” caused him to leave the tree holding the dirt bank that would have eroded into the road and saving the bees needed to pollinate our vegetable garden. Practical concerns took precedence over monetary policy. “Horse sense” refers to their ability to foresee trouble or danger before it’s actually in sight. Sometimes we call this “common sense”. Today it is too uncommon to use this term. The decision to leave the big bee tree wasn’t part of a greater movement to preserve bees or big trees, just the right thing to do.

By: David Hill

The Bible isn’t written as a history book though always historically correct nor as a science book although profound scientific knowledge is gained by reading it. The purpose isn’t to teach us about mankind. The theme from Genesis to Revelation is to help us learn about God and how we relate to Him. God’s unexplained

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

FAITH

REFERENCE

HOUSES OF WORSHIP - CONTINUED

Parkway Presbyterian Church 5830 Bethelview Road, (678) 889-8694 Traditional Worship: Sundays 9:00 a.m. Contemporary Worship: Sundays11:00 a.m. Brazilian Ministry Sunday Services: 7:00 p.m. (The service is in Portuguese.) Rev. Bill Ford, Senior Pastor Rev. Cido Araujo, Assoc. Pastor of Brazilian Ministries 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

Forsyth County Newcomers and Women’s Club

Cumming First United Methodist Church

Meeting: Third Thurs. of each mo. at 11:00 a.m. - $22 lunch Location: Windermere Golf Club Contact: Linda Fitzwater 678-947-6156 - davlinfitz@yahoo.com Information: Membership is open to all women of Forsyth and surrounding counties Program includes group activities, information and more. Website: newcomersclubofforsyth.org

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

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

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

Roman Catholic Church of Good Shepherd 3740 Holtzclaw Road (770) 887-9861 Mass: Saturday Vigil, 5 p.m.; Sundays, 7:30, 9 & 10:30 a.m. and 12 noon; 5:30p.m. Spanish Mass, 1:30 p.m. Weekdays: 9 a.m Pastor: Father Frank www.goodshepherdcumming.com

Piedmont United Methodist Church

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

4525 Bethelview Road, (770) 887-4888 Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. www.bethelview.net

(child care available) Pastor: Rev. Deborah Griffith

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.

Parkway Church

United Methodist Bethelview United Methodist Church

HOUSES OF WORSHIP | CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

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

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Networking Central Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: Second & fourth Tues. 11 a.m. — 1 p.m. Location: The Columns at Pilgrim Mill Apartments Contact: Nancy Wright, (770) 886-0500 or nancyw@ecigroups.com Information: No fees. Open to all

my forsyth

Forsyth Network for Business Professionals Meeting: Thurs.11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Location: Bello Italian Restaurant 101 Meadow Drive Contact: Tiffany Allen at tiffany@servpro8378.com or 770-887-1962 Information: $50 membership fee and $10 monthly. Visit twice for free. No occupation overlap. Call first.

The Inspiration Network of Cumming Meeting: Location: Contact:

Third Wed. from 7 - 8:30 p.m. The Nurturing Nook, 205 Pilgrim Mill Road Leanne Temple, (678) 965-5969

Member Power Networking Lunch Meeting: Every Tues. at 12 Noon Location: Various chamber member restaurants Contact: (770) 887-6461 or cummingforsythchamber.org Information: $15 for members and $30 for non-members

South Forsyth Leads Group Meeting: 2nd and 4th Wed. at 11:30 a.m. No fees Location: Starbucks-141 and Ronald Reagan – John’s Creek, 435 Peachtree Parkway Cumming, GA 30041 Contact: Robin Grier 770) 887-2772 rgrier@harborfs.com

Women Who Mean Business Meeting: First Tues. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Location: Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Event’s Facility 513 W. Maple Street Contact: (770) 887-6461 Information: Free for members; $30 for non-members Register online at cummingforsythchamber.org.

Charitable Organizations 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: Website:

(770) 886-5419 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: WhisperingHope.org

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Civic Organizations Ducktown Chapter #460 — Order of the Eastern Star Meeting: Location: Contact:

2nd & 4th Fri. at 7:30 p.m. 4655 Canton Hwy (770) 887-8147

Rotary Club of South Forsyth Meeting: Wed. at 12:15 p.m. Location: 6300 Polo Club Drive Website: southforsythrotaryclub.org

Political Organizations Democratic Women of Forsyth County Meeting: Second Thurs. Location: Different restaurants in Cumming Contact: Mary Chatfield, (770) 887-1106 Facebook: DWFC GA Information: Democratic women meet monthly and the meetings alternate between lunch and dinner meetings with programs.

Forsyth County Democratic Party Meeting: 2nd Tues. 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 Tues. of each month from Sept. until May at 10:00 AM Information: Non-profit organization with the purposes of educating members & the community in gardening, conservation & creative expression.

Cuong Nhu Martial Arts Club Contact:

Meeting: Every other Wed. at 7 p.m. Location: Central Park Website: meetup.com/North-AtlantaCuong-Nhu-Martial-Arts-Club/ Information: No fees, open to 16 yrs +

Piecemakers Quilt Guild Meeting: 2nd Tues. of each month; 4th Tuesday is “sewcialbee” (community quilts, classes or just getting together) Location: Christ the King Lutheran Church 1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road, Cumming Website: piecemakersga.netw

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

Moms Club of Cumming - Southwest Meeting: Last Tues. of each month Contact: www.momsclub.org

NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin Meeting:

Support Organizations AA Cumming

Meeting: Meets four times daily Location: Ingles Shopping Center at 432 Canton Highway (Hwy 20) Second suite on far left. 24/7 Line: (770) 886-0696 Information: Group of Alcoholics Anonymous located in Forsyth County Website: www.aacummingga.org

Location:

Meetings: Second and fourth Thurs. of each month 7PM-8:30PM (excluding major holidays). Two support meetings (for consumers and family members) held the second Thursday of each month Educational meeting on the fourth Thursday of each month Forsyth County Senior Center, 595 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Ga. 30040

(family & peer) meet every Thurs. except the last when there is a speaker. Contact: Flo Giltman lgiltma1@gmail.com Website: www.namifdlga.org

Single Mom Meeting Connect with other single moms, learn about paths to higher education and get links to community resources. Light dinner provided and free on-site childcare/ homework help provided. Meeting: 2nd Thurs.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

SMART Recovery Meeting: Location: Website:

Every Tues. at 6:30 p.m. Professional Recovery Counseling, LLC. 107 W. Court house Sq., Suite 274 www.smartrecovery.org

Information: Two support groups

Holistic Moms Network Forsyth County

WHAT’S WRONG WITH PEOPLE?

Monthly meetings with informational speakers, yoga group, play groups Meeting: 2nd Tues. of each

Continued from page 38

would have been taken outside and spoken to very sternly, if she continued to act out, we would have left and eaten something at home where her activities and privileges would have been suspended, and yes, maybe even a spanking. She would have learned that her behavior was unacceptable and would not be tolerated. We would not have disrupted an entire restaurant.

(The service is in Portuguese.) Rev. Bill Ford, Senior Pastor Rev. Cido Araujo, Assoc. Pastor of Brazilian Ministries

The biggest point is that my parents taught me to be respectful of others and myself. I was taught to be polite to elders, hold open doors, dress and act nicely at all times, never to be rude or insensitive to any one, and always lend a helping hand with a smile. Say please and thank you and excuse me and I’m sorry. In turn, I taught common courtesy to my children as well.

month at 6:30 p.m. Location: Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee House 5095 Post Road, Cumming Contact: Ann Linke at www.parkway-chruch.org holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com Website: www.holisticmoms.org

At the grocery store one night, a lady bumped into my 3 year old son with her cart. He waited for her apology and as she neared the end of the aisle without acknowledging bumping him, he yelled out “Hey lady, you’re excused!” Others in the store applauded him for knowing his manners.

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

Moms Club of Cumming - North

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

I am a firm believer in the scripture: Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray (Proverbs 22:6). Let’s go back to teaching our children! If you wait until they are grown, it is too late!

(404) 423-3524

reference

How to be an author in the digital age

CAN FOOTBALL SAVE YOUR BUSINESS?

Continued from page 16

Continued from page 20

such as Bonide or anything with Merit. This makes the plant poisonous to whatever eats it and is very effective. This is not a good idea around children or pets.

TIP FOR YOUR PLAYBOOK: The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce offers frequent networking opportunities and roundtable sessions for you to connect with fellow business leaders. For more information contact Jimmy Lane at (770) 887-6461. The State of Georgia also offers a Mentor-Protégé program that connects local business owners with the leaders of major corporate firms. For more information visit www.georgiamentorprotegeconnection.org

If you want to try an organic way, us Dawn dishwashing liquid; mix two tablespoons in a standard 16-20 oz spray bottle. Spray in the early morning or late in the evening to reduce the risk of spray burn, making sure to spray the under sides of the leaves because that’s where most critters live. The soap will coat their body and when it dries they die. You may need to segregate those infested plants and treat twice. This method is safe around children and pets and will not leave a fowl odor. Watering is one more important aspect of indoor plant care. When they are inside and after a good pruning the plants will use much less water. When we diminish the leaf structure we decrease the need for water. Most plants don’t like to sit in water all the time. When possible water the plants and after a few hours empty the saucer in which they sit. This will greatly decrease the chances of root rot and keep the plant healthier. It also will give you a chance to wash the saucer to maintain a more tidy appearance. I hope this helps you save some of your favorite things from season to season. Happy gardening and have a great fall. DECIDE WHAT NOT TO DO Continued from page 23

DECIDE what I’m going to do and also DECIDE what I’m NOT going to do. This allowed me to enjoy the holiday season and avoid the feelings of inadequacy from the nagging list of things hanging over my head that I knew there wasn’t enough “bandwidth”. Wow! What an empowering feeling that was, the pressure immediately lifted from my spirit. So I challenge you to sit down and think about all the “to do’s” for this holiday season. In fact, write everything down, that makes it tangible and out of your head. This will keep you from waking up in a cold sweat thinking you forgot something. Get real and DECIDE what you will do and DECIDE what you won’t do. Trust me it is an exhilarating exercise. This is your holiday too; make it fun, festive and manageable. You deserve it! TIPS FOR BETTER EYES AND HEALTHIER VISION Continued from page 32 BB

Get downloading. If you own a mobile device, you can download eye-related apps such as magnifiers, eye medication reminder tools and apps that let you try on “virtual” eyewear.

BB Give something back. Donate your old glasses and contribute to vision charities to help give the gift of sight to those in need—both locally and around the world.

Principle No. 3: Play to Win “We’re going to play with full effort from snap to whistle on every play the entire game.” – Steve Spurrier, Former Head Coach, Florida/ South Carolina Most companies who take time to develop a strategy for their business tend to do so in an effective manner. However, as stated in Scott Edinger’s 2012 article in Forbes Magazine, “most leaders fail – not in the formulation of strategy, but in its implementation.” According to the Harvard Business Review’s report entitled “Barriers to Strategy Execution” only 37% of those surveyed responded that their companies were “very good” or “excellent” at executing their business strategies. In order to be successful a company must not only develop a plan for their business, they must execute it effectively as well. TIP FOR YOUR PLAYBOOK: The Small Business Development Center and SCORE are available to help your business develop and maintain an effective implementation strategy for your business at no cost. For more information contact Jason Mock at (770) 887-6461.

WHY CAN’T I HAVE MY BOOK OUT NEXT MONTH Continued from page 21

back and make some revisions to the book. Marketing: Many of your marketing and promotional preparations can be done during other steps in the publishing process, such as the building of your website and setup of your social media. Marketing is an on-going task that never ends once the book is published. You really don’t want to rush any of these steps—they’re all critical to publishing a successful book. If you rush a step such as editorial, and put out a book that has mistakes, in the long run you could create more work and lost time (and expenses) for yourself in having to go back and make corrections. So while you may be rushing to get the book out because your friends are dying to read it, tell them it will be worth the wait! BookLogix offers free educational publishing workshops/webinars.

For more tips on better vision and eye health, visit www.allaboutvision.com/ resources/checklist.htm. my forsyth

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REFERENCE

United States Government President Barack H. Obama (D) (202) 456-1414 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, fax: (202) 456-2461 Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R)

ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS

Senator Steve Gooch (R), District 51 (678) 341-6203 e-mail: steve.gooch@statesenate.ga.gov fax: (770) 844-5821

Rep. Mark Hamilton (R), District 23 (770) 844-6768 e-mail: mark.hamilton@house.ga.gov

Forsyth County School System Superintendent, Dr. L.C. (Buster) Evans (770) 887-2461 1120 Dahlonega Highway Cumming Website: www.forsyth.k12.ga.us 1092 Tribble Gap Road, Cumming, GA 30040 Website: www.forsythco.com

Rep. Mike Dudgeon (R), District 24

(202) 224-3521 Atlanta Office: 100 Galleria Parkway Suite 1340 GA: (770) 763-9090 Atlanta, GA 30339 fax: (202) 224-0103 Website: www.chambliss.senate.gov e-mail: use contact form on website

(770) 887-0400 e-mail: mike.dudgeon@house.ga.gov

Rep. Amos Amerson (R), District 9 (404) 657-8534 e-mail: amos.amerson@house.ga.gov

Board of Education Ann Crow, District 1 (R) (770) 490-6316 e-mail: ACrow@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kristin Morrissey, District 2 (R)

Senator Johnny Isakson (R) (202) 224-3643 Atlanta Office: One Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: (770) 661-0999 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30339 Website: www.isakson.senate.gov

Forsyth County Government Forsyth County Board of Commissioners

Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9

County Manager

(202) 225-5211 Georgia Office: Wachovia Center GA: (770) 535-2592 500 Jesse Jewel Parkway, Suite 301, Gainesville, GA 30503 Website: www.tomgraves.house.gov

Doug Derrer: (770) 781.2101 fax : (770) 781.2199

110 East Main Street, Suite 210, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 781-2101 Website: www.forsythco.com fax: (770) 781-2199

Rep. Rob Woodall. (R), District 7 (770) 963-2420 Email: woodall@mail.house.gov Website: woodall.house.gov

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

Commissioners R.J. (Pete) Amos, District 1 (R)

Senator Jack Murphy (R), District 27

Nancy Roche, Chairperson, District 5 (R)

Cumming City Hall (770) 781-2010 100 Main Street, Cumming, GA 30040

(678) 513-5882 e-mail: brtam@forsythco.com

Cumming City Council Members:

Todd Levent, District 3 (R)

Quincy Holton, Lewis Ledbetter, Ralph Perry, John Pugh and Rupert Sexton

(678) 513-5885 e-mail: jjboff@forsythco.com

Forsyth County Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter (770) 781-2110

my forsyth

(770) 887-0678 e-mail: DLight@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brian R. Tam, District 2 (R)

Jim Boff, District 5 (R)

(770) 887-1960 e-mail: jack.murphy@senate.ga.gov fax: (770) 205-0602

Darla Light, District 4

City of Cumming Mayor Henry Ford Gravitt

(678) 513-5884 e-mail: cjmills@forsythco.com

(404) 656-5030 Website: www.gov.state.ga.us

(770) 657-0810 e-mail: TCleveland@forsyth.k12.ga.us

(678) 513-5881 e-mail: rjamos@forsythco.com

Cindy Mills, District 4 (R)

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle

Tom Cleveland, District 3 (R)

(770) 889-0229 e-mail: NRoche@forsyth.k12.ga.us

(770) 781-2101 e-mail: tlevent@forsythco.com

(404) 652-7003 Website: www.gov.state.ga.us fax: (404) 652-7123

(770) 781-5222 e-mail: KMorrisey@forsyth.k12.ga.us

City Administrator Gerald Blackburn (770) 781-2010

City Clerk Jeff Honea jhonea@cityofcumming.net

COMMUNITY NUMBERS

Emergency — 911

Parks and Recreation City of Cumming Main Number:

UTILITIES City of Cumming (770) 781-2020

Battered Women Hotline

(770) 781-2030 410 Pilgrim Mill Road

(770) 479-1703

Central Park Office

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help Lines

Water & Sewer

Poison Control Center — Atlanta

(770) 781-2215

(404) 616-9000

Central Park Recreation Center

Outside Metro Atlanta (800) 222-1222

(678) 455-8540 2300 Keith Bridge Road

Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems)

Windermere Park

(404) 250-KIDS

(770) 781- 2215 3355 Windermere Parkway

Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center (770) 428-2666

(770) 205-6912 2535 Ivy Street East

Waste Management, Inc.

(770) 844-3200 1200 Northside Forsyth Drive www.northside.com

Golf Clubs Chestatee Golf Club

Neighborhood Healthcare Center

(706) 216-7336 777 Dogwood Way, Dawsonville

(770) 844-7494 2825 Keith Bridge Road (770) 886-7135

Health Department (770) 781-6906 428 Canton Highway

Fire and Law Enforcement City of Cumming Police Department (770) 781-2000 301 Veterans Memorial Boulevard www.cummingpd.net

Forsyth County Fire Department

Country Land Golf Course (770) 887-0006 6560 Mayfield Drive (770) 887-7656 6300 Polo Club Drive

Telephone AT&T

Windermere Golf Club

Residential (888) 757-6500 Business (866) 213-6300 www.att.com

(678) 513-1000 5000 Davis Love Drive

Georgia State Patrol

(770) 887-5432 2200 Habersham Marina Road

Port Royale Marina

(770) 781-9840 585 Dahlonega Road www.forsythpl.org

Hampton Park Library (770) 781-9840 5345 Settingdown Road

Recycling Keep Forsyth County Beautiful

Polo Golf & Country Club

Forsyth County Marinas Habersham Marina

Libraries Forsyth County Public Library

(770) 751-1304 774 McFarland Road, Alpharetta www.wm.com

(770) 205-4573

(770) 781-2180 3520 Settingdown Road www.forsythco.com (770) 205-5400

Solid Waste Advanced Disposal/Eagle Point Landfill (770) 887-6063 8880 Old Federal Road, Ball Ground www.advanceddisposal.com

Olde Atlanta Recycling LLC

Fairgrounds (770) 781-3491 235 Castleberry Road

Medical Northside Hospital — Forsyth

Forsyth County Water & Sewer Department (770) 781-2160 110 East Main Street www.forsythco.com

Electricity Georgia Power 888) 660-5890

Sawnee Electric Membership (770) 887-2363

(770) 887-5715 9200 LanMar Road, Gainesville

YMCA (770) 888-2788 6050 Y Street

Sharon Forks Branch

POST OfFICE

(770) 781-9840 2810 Old Atlanta Road

(770) 886-2388 525 Tribble Gap Road

reference