01/11 West Canton

The Voice of Canton, Sixes & Waleska Communities

See Pages 36 & 37

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2 AROUNDABOUT — WEST CANTON JANUARY 2011

Birthdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Community Calendar . . . . . . . 14Dr. Litrel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16School Information . . . . . . . . . . 20Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54Chamber Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Local Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66Community Information . . . . . . 67Church Listings . . . . . . . . . 68 & 69Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

In Every Issue . . .

24

27

34

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www.aroundaboutwestcanton.com

WEST CANTONWEST CANTON

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Anytime Fitness Covering Canton — 4 Convenient Clubs

Photos courtesy of Jack Tuszynski, PhotoJack.net

Michelle and Brian Meek are the co-owners of AroundAbout — West Canton magazine. Brian spent the last 15 years in sales and also owns a junior golf business. Michelle has been a stay-at-home mom for the past eight years and was a counselor at KSU prior to having their two girls, Ansley and Addison. They have lived in the Canton community for more than nine years.

AroundAbout — West Canton is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25% recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.

On the Cover&&32 33

NCAA Signing DayLocal athletes sign their letter of intent

The Lodge at BridgeMillLuxury living for every senior lifestyle

Cherokee Co. Historical SocietyRemembering Canton United Methodist’s roots

Readers’ Choice BallotLet the voting begin!

Featured ArticlesJANUARY 2011

Contributing WritersDr. Michael Anderson

John Barker

Dr. Kellie Baxter

Michael Buckner

Dr. Charles

Cooley

Dr. Scott Harden

Rep. Calvin Hill

Rev. Norman Hunt

Dan Jape

Dr. Mike Litrel

Melissa Llano

Dr. Dawn Mason

Carole May

Paul Pugliese

Pastor Jamey

Prickett

Janet Read

Sen. Chip Rogers

Judy Ross

Sgt. Will Rownd

Suzanne Taylor

Pete Thomas

Amy Turcotte

Ann VanczaDr. Monika Yadav

PublisherBrian Meek

EditorMichelle Meek

Art DirectorCandice Williams

Advertising SalesDiana Edge

AroundAbout — West Canton magazine, is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Footprints Publishing, LLC. The magazine is a franchisee of AroundAbout Community Magazines, Inc. The magazine’s mission is to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. More than 15,000 copies are distributed free by mail to Canton area residents and distributed at local businesses in the Canton area.

Volume 11Issue 8

AroundAbout — West Canton magazine welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 12th of the preceding month.

Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Send check or money order to the address below.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. AroundAbout — West Canton magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2008

151 B East Marietta Street, Canton, GA 30114(770) 720-7497 Fax (770) 720-1329

Advertising:[email protected]

Email the Editor:[email protected]

A Look Back 2010


Around The People, The Places and The Pleasures that make West Canton.

by Michelle [email protected]

WESTCANTON

Happy New Year from AroundAbout — West Canton magazine! Yes, West Canton! The New Year brings about new beginnings and 2011 is no different. As you thumb through the pages of this month’s magazine, you will encounter a brand new look! Fresh, inviting — we have a new look and have changed our coverage area a bit, but the pages continue to contain local stories featuring your friends and neighbors and pertinent community, school and church information as well as interesting articles written by local authors. AroundAbout — West Canton is for you! We invite you to send in your stories and photos from the events around town. Your involvement with us is what makes us unique and AroundAbout — West Canton wants to continue to be your source for niche community information, throughout 2011 and beyond. Building Stronger Communities!

What’s New?Crossfit Refuge opened recently at 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Parkway, Suite 128 in Canton. Crossfit is for everybody, including you. For more information, please visit www.crossfitrefuge.com

Lori Shackleford has recently partnered with the doctors that created Proactive Solution, Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields. Rodan + Fields Dermatologists are bringing dermatology into the home at affordable prices. For more information, (404) 502-7129, http://Lorishcak.myrandf.biz or www.bestspentminute.com.

Community InvolvementA community outreach center for the blind and visually impaired will have its first meeting on January 29 at noon. It is a great opportunity for blind and visually impaired individuals to meet others who face similar challenges, and make new friends. Transportation is available! The meeting will be held at Timothy Lutheran Church, located at 556 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. For more information, please contact Lindsay Bridges at (404) 576-8817 or [email protected].

Chick-fil-A at Canton Marketplace and Riverstone Parkway are hosting many family-friendly events: Tuesdays in January is Family Night from 5 — 8 p.m. On January 17, they will be holding a Breakfast for Dinner Night from 5 — 8 p.m. Wear your pajamas and receive a free breakfast entrée, one per person. On February 5, they will be hosting Daddy Daughter Date Night from 5 — 8 p.m. Enjoy a special night with entertainment, table service and

more! Reservations are required. For more information, please visit www.cfacanton.com.

A free Career Training Expo will be held from 6 — 8:30 p.m. on January 13, at KSU Center in Kennesaw. Hosted by the College of Continuing and Professional Education at Kennesaw State University, the Expo will highlight the more than 40 certificate programs and 2500 courses. The KSU Center is located off Chastain Road at I-75/I-575. For more information, please call (770) 423-6765 or visit ccpe.kennesaw.edu/trainingexpo.

Fairy Tale Endings, a local non-profit organization, needs your help to collect formal dresses, shoes and accessories for teens in the area that cannot affort to attend their school dances/proms. Donate a Dress Drive will be held January 24 — 29 with drop-off sites at the following locations: BodyPlex Fitness on Highway 92, Re/Max Town & Country — BridgeMill and The Shake Place. For more information, please visit www.FairyTaleEndings.org.

Hasty Elementary is hosting a Talent Show and the public is invited! The show will be held January 21 at 6:30 p.m. with special community guest judges. For more information, please call the school at (770) 479-1600.


NewsCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITY

Local Optimist Group Recognizes OfficersThe 36th Induction of Officers for the South Cherokee Optimist Club was held recently at their weekly breakfast meeting. Zone Lt. Governor swore in President Judge Keith Wood, Vice President Steve Campbell, and Secretary Treasure Steve Sandridge. In his presentation, Long explained the values of the Creed and leadership Optimist provide for young people. Judge Wood is the Cherokee County Probate Judge, Campbell is the principal at the law firm of Campbell and Associates, Sandridge is the President of Pied Piper Pest Control. The Optimists meet each Friday morning for breakfast at Featherstone’s in Towne Lake. For more information, please call (770) 926-3522.

Local Credit Union Raises Money for Clark Howard’s Christmas Kids DriveRecently, Credit Union of Georgia employees donated $1,500 to Clark Howard’s “Clark’s Christmas Kids” program. Credit Union of Georgia’s Amanda Arnold and Lauren Howard visited the Wal-Mart in Duluth to shop for over 20 deserving children. Each child made a list of the top three items that they would love to see under their tree Christmas morning and it was the Credit Union’s pleasure to fulfill those wishes! Credit Union of Georgia collected over $1,500 from their 78 employees for this special cause. This year marked the 20th year that Clark Howard and AM 750 and 95.5 FM News/Talk WSB join together with the Georgia Department of Family and Children’s Services to provide gifts for children in foster care across Georgia.

Local Teacher Fashions New Invention

Paul McClendon (pictured), a social studies teacher at Woodstock High School, was on a modeling job when he discovered the idea that led him to invent the ShurtClip. “During a shoot, my stylist noticed my shirt was too baggy, so she grabbed a binder clip - the same kind I use at school. While it did the trick in making my shirt more fitted, the back was a mess,” said Paul. After much thought and a few sleepless nights, Paul created the fashion accessory, which allows people to customize their clothing without the cost of professional tailoring. It works very simply by folding the extra material of a shirt toward the back, sliding the clip over the fold, and then tucking it in making it invisible. It sits on the beltline anywhere you like underneath the belt, and it’s so small you can hardly feel it.

Laurel Canyon Optimists Spread Christmas Joy

The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club recently presented checks totaling $2500 for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Christmas Joy Program and the Canton Police Department for their Shop With a Cop Christmas Program. Pictured left to right are Sheriffs Auxillary Sgt. John Forkin, Canton Police Corporal Stacey Bailiey, Jim Walz of the Laurel Canyon Optimists, and Canton Chief of Police Jeff Lance.

The Rock Barn is Coming up RosesWilly Ellis, an Eagle Scout candidate and senior at Cherokee High, held his leadership project at the Crescent Farm Historical Center recently. The project was constructing a raised bed for the Sixes Community Garden Club. The garden club, whose responsibility is the maintenance and beautification

continued on page 8

L- R: Credit Union of Georgia’s Lauren Howard and Amanda Arnold with Clark Howard.

Pictured left to right: Bob Long, Steve Campbell, Judge Keith Wood and Steve Sandridge.

Willy Ellis, Sean Jerguson and Community Volunteers.


NewsCOMMUNITYCOMMUNITYcontinued from page 6

of the “Rock Barn,” uses the barn for its monthly meetings. The raised bed will be a cutting garden to provide flowers for the Cameron Hall Assisted Living Center. This is the club’s latest “Giving Back to the Community” project. State House Representative, Sean Jerguson, an Eagle Scout himself, lent a hand along with Willy’s troop 991 and the Sixes Community Garden club. The project was coordinated by Deborah Bailey and Marcia Mosher of the Sixes Community Garden Club and the Cherokee County Historical Society.

2010 River Green Run Donates to CharitiesThe 2010 River Green Run was held recently. Through this fundraising effort, they were able to donate to two different charities: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the River Green Outreach. Lorne Brown, Roofs Over Georgia (pictured) presents a $500 check to River Green Outreach.

Cherokee Saddle Club Holds Online AuctionThe Cherokee County Saddle Club is holding its first online auction. They will be auctioning a one of a kind 19 inch Native American Pony, hand painted by Barbara Post and signed by the artist. Bidding starts at $50 on the website: www.CherokeeSaddleClub.com. The auction opened on December 1, 2010, and closes at 12:00 p.m. on January 31, 2011. Cherokee County Saddle Club is a non-profit organization to promote trail riding through member trail rides, training, education, fellowship and the development of horse trail systems. The funds will be used to support club educational and trail development programs like the Garland Mountain Horse and Hike Trails in Waleska.

WHS Graduate Sings with Famous Country StarHolli Griffin, a 2010 graduate of Woodstock High School and freshman at Anderson University in South Carolina, was recently selected to sing in a choral ensemble from the university backing up legendary country singer Kenny Rogers. The 2010 Christmas and Greatest Hits Tour stopped November 28, 2010, at the Anderson Civic Center. The show is traveling to 20 cities across the Eastern US and Canada. At each stop, Rogers invites a local choir to participate in the program. Griffin, an art major, was part of the ensemble joining Rogers and guest star Billy Dean on such classics as “O Holy Night” and “Joy to the World.” The Anderson University choral program is under the direction of Dr. Richard Williamson.

Pictured from left: Cristina DeMartini and Bianca Cummings, River Green Outreach, Lorne Brown, Roofs Over Georgia, John Rust Race Director, Linda Rust, Committee Member, Joy McEuen, Committee Member.

Pictured (L-R): Dad Reg Griffin; Sister Emily Griffin, a junior at Woodstock High School; Rogers; Holli Griffin; and mom Lori Griffin.

Happy New Year!


Happy BIRTHDAYBirthday, Anniversary & Wedding Announcements are Free!

AroundAbout — West Canton151 B East Marietta Street, Canton, GA 30114

or [email protected]

Deadline is the 12th of the preceding month.

Stork

Wat

ch

Carson Allen WynnBorn on September 13, 20106 lbs., 4 oz., 21 inches long

Son of Alisha Wynn & Dave UrodeLittle brother of

Cody, Courtney & Cassidy

C All W

Celeb

rate!

Tamesha & Anthony CorneliusMarried on January 7, 2004

Happy 7th Anniversary!

Lawrence ChuAge 10 on December 17

Happy Birthday!We love you!

Mommy, Daddy & Sister

Lexie-AnneAge 8 on January 8

We love you bunches & bunches!Hugs & kisses forever!

Mommy & Daddy

Courtney UrodeAge 11 on January 31

Happy Birthday Courtney! We love you!

Dad, Alisha, Cody, Cassidy & Carson

Cameryn CorneliusAge 5 on January 11Happy 5th Birthday,

Cami! Love, Mom, Dad, Cheyenne, Callie

& Austin

Cathy JohnsCelebrating on

January 25Happy Birthday to

the best Mom in the world! Love, Kelly

Janice SloanCelebrating on

January 19Wife of Gary Sloan

Mother of Zach & Dylan

Nicholas ReinhartAge 12 on January 2

Happy Birthday!Son of Karla & Jeff

Brother of Ethan & Anna Louise

Ethan ReinhartAge 10 on January 6

Happy Birthday!Son of Karla & JeffBrother of Nicholas

& Anna Louise

Anna Louise ReinhartAge 2 on January 13

Happy Birthday!Daughter of Karla & Jeff

Sister of Nicholas & Ethan

Austin RiddleAge 1 on December 15Son of Aimee & James

Brother of AllisonMommy, Daddy & Sissy love you!

Morgan JonesAge 12 on January 26Happy 12th Birthday,

Lizard! We love you very much,

Mom, Dad, Josh, Abbi & Isabella

Grace RothschildAge 3 on December 15

Daughter of Anne & Rob

Happy Birthday Grace!We love you!


CalendarsJanuary

O MARK YOURMARK YOUR

Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout JanuaryEmployment Strategies — Basic & CareerTimes: 10 a.m. — 1 p.m.Location: Papa’s Pantry & The

Master’s Training Center, 6551 Commerce Pkwy., Ste 200, Woodstock

Information: Various job skills classes are offered. Please call (770) 591-4730 or visit www.papaspantry.org for specific class information to fit specific needs. Classes and workshops are offered to everyone in the community — food assistance need is not a requirement!

January 8Book Signing and Presentation by Jeff SchettlerTime: 11 a.m.Location: Yawn’s Books & More,

Inc., 210 East Main Street, Canton

Information: Jeff Schettler, seen on CNN, ABC, Unsolved Mysteries and Mythbusters, will be visiting with his book “Red Dog Rising.” For more information, please call (678) 880-1922 or visit www.yawnsbooks.com.

January 8Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association MeetingTime: 10:30 a.m.Location: Chief Vann House in

ChatsworthInformation: The guest speaker will be Carmen Shuler, a fiber arts expert. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the house and grounds. Free and open to the public. The Chief Vann House is located west of Chatsworth at the intersection of Georgia Highways 225 and 52-A, (706) 695-2598. www.nationaltota.org or www.gatrailoftears.org or contact Linda Baker at (770) 704-6338.

January 18“Mark Twain! On Stage”Time: 7:30 p.m.Location: Falany Performing Arts

Center at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt College Circle, Waleska

Cost: Adults — $25, Seniors and Children — $20

Information: A magical evening of theatre starring John Chappell. More than a comedy, more than a drama, and way more fun than you can imagine. For more information, please call (770) 720-9167 or visit www.reinhardt.edu/fpac/

January 20 & 27Town Hall Meetings with Senator Chip RogersTime: 6:30 — 7:30 p.m.Location: January 20 —

Woodstock Library, 7735 Main Street, Woodstock, January 27 — Hickory Flat Library 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton

Information: Senate Majority Leader Chip Rogers will update constituents on the upcoming legislative session and the legislative developments which happen during the session.

January 21Book Signing — Author Mary Jane ClarkTime: 6 p.m.Location: Yawn’s Books & More,

Inc., 210 East Main Street, Canton

Information: New York Best Selling Author, Mary Jane Clark will be visiting with her new book “To Have and To Kill: A Wedding Cake Mystery.” For more information, please call (678) 880-1922 or visit www.yawnsbooks.com.

January 21, 22, 28 & 29“The Snow Queen” — A Musical Presented by the Elm Street PlayersTimes: 7:30 p.m. on the 21 & 28,

11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the 22 & 29.

Location: Woodstock Community Auditorium, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock

Cost: $9Information: A musical based upon Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of brave young Gerda and her great adventure to the North Pole to rescue her dear friend from the Snow Queen’s castle. Wonderful for the whole family! For tickets and more information, please call (678) 494-4251 or visit www.elmstreetarts.org.

January 22Cherokee Bridal ExpoTime: 1 – 5 p.m.Location: Woodstock Community

Center, 108 Arnold Mill Road

Information: Sponsored by Globe Trotters with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments courtesy of The Magnolia House and Center Cut Catering. Brides-to-be can meet with businesses specializing in bridal services and products. Pre-registration is $6 and $8 at the door. For more information including ticket purchasing, visit www.cherokeebridalexpo.com or call Maria Murray at (770) 924-3235.

January 22Red Cross Blood DriveTime: 8 a.m. — 1 p.m.Location: Good Shepherd

Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall

Information: (770) 924-7286,www.goodshepherdwoodstock.org.

January 30 — February 1Sutallee Baptist Church RevivalTimes: Sunday — 10:45 a.m.

& 6 p.m., Monday and Tuesday — 7 p.m.

Location: Sutallee Baptist Church, 895 Knox Bridge Hwy., half way between Canton and Cartersville.

Information: Gerald Crabb and Crabb Revival preaching and singing. For more information call 770-479-0101.


Emergency Surgery for a Marriage

The other day my patient Christine came in for a routine visit just before her planned surgery. She arrived with a flurry of questions plucked from Internet sites.

How will you handle scar tissue? What about a tumor? And what happens if you find cancer?

Surgery moves toward a defined goal – for example, removing a tumor that’s causing pain. But the exact course of the operation can’t be plotted until the incision reveals the terrain inside the body. I reassured Christine we would do whatever was needed to treat her symptoms and disease, and nothing unnecessary.

“I treat all my patients exactly the same way I would treat my wife,” I explained. This is a guiding principle in our practice: give everyone the same care you’d give a loved one. This is what patients mostly want to hear, and I am happy to say it with confidence. But this time I felt uncomfortable. Christine noticed and raised her eyebrows questioningly.

“Well, to be honest, I got into a little argument with my wife before work,” I admitted. “So in your case - I’ll have to treat you even better.”

Christine laughed and we finished our appointment. My next patient had not yet arrived. I finished some charts and wondered whether I should call Ann to make up. My first thought was “No way.” I had a feeling that talking to Ann would just make me angry all over again. Plus, I could sense it in my bones: this time, I was one hundred percent right. Why apologize? Isn’t it easier to just stay angry and live forever after with glares from your spouse in a miserable home?

Perhaps not.

Unfortunately, I have noticed that any argument in which I am dead sure I am right eventually ends with me realizing exactly how I was wrong. So I reviewed the events leading up to the disagreement.

I had been called to the hospital for an emergency surgery at two a.m. Sleep deprivation aside, there is something deeply rewarding about this aspect of my work. Gathered together in the operating room in the dead of night are a team of people utterly dedicated to helping a stranger in need. Granted, I am tired. And sometimes even a little grumpy.

But on the plus side, I’m in charge. And miraculously, everyone listens: “Hand me the knife, give me the retractor,

Dr. Mike Litrel practices with his fellow OB/GYNs at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton and Woodstock. Dr. Litrel lives in Woodstock with his wife Ann and their two sons, Tyler and Joseph. Email Dr. Litrel at www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

by Mike Litrel, M.D.

Ann and Mike Litrel and their sons, Tyler and Joseph.

Copyright © 2010

suction here, retract there …. move, move, MOVE!”

During an emergency operation, the surgeon marshals the team through dangerous territory to safety on the other side – and in the process, he or she is allowed to be bossy, pushy, demanding - even megalomaniacal, with high expectations and low social finesse.

Talk about your dream job!

Unfortunately, the job skills used to lead surgery in the middle of the night are not the same ones required for persuading one’s wife over morning coffee. This particular morning, the operation was fairly simple: get Ann to trade her ancient relic of a phone for something more suited for the 21st century.

Still a bit groggy perhaps, I forgot we weren’t in the heat of a medical emergency. What I meant to say was, “Annie, I know technology isn’t your thing, but if you get a smart phone, you could e-mail me a list of chores and I could text you back how much I love you.”

What came out instead was: “I am sick of your lousy phone losing reception and not taking e-mails. Get a new one already!” She did not respond in quite the same cooperative way as my hospital crew.

“I can’t believe you can be such a jerk, Michael!”

Well, I KNEW this couldn’t be true. Ann and I have been married 23 years. She knows EXACTLY how much of a jerk I can be. A more accurate statement would have been that she didn’t appreciate the tone of my voice. That’s something I might have been able to agree with. But truthfully, I really had been worried about Ann using that old cell phone for quite some time, especially when she was driving alone at night, with the phone reception hit or miss.

In the operating room, a surgery can sometimes become challenging. But nothing like repairing a marital disagreement. Having gotten into heavy bleeding, I had no choice but to reach for the never-fail band-aid: A heartfelt apology. I called Ann and told her I was sorry for being a jerk.

Falling back on surgical tactics, I changed my approach as well: “I’m just concerned about your safety,” I truthfully explained. “And sometimes,“ I admitted, ”I just want to hear your voice.”

Ann bought a new phone the next day.


NewsSCHOOLSCHOOL

Famous Athlete Visits His Alma MaterKenny Faulk, a former Sixes Elementary student, now Detroit Tigers baseball player recently returned to Sixes Elementary to be interviewed by the WSIX new team. Kenny was drafted by the Tigers in the 2009 MLB Amateur draft, and was awarded the West Michigan Whitecaps low A Pitcher of the Year. During the interview, Kenny spoke about the challenges he had experienced in his life to make his dreams a reality, and that in life you will have adversity but that should push you harder. He took time out of his day to visit with some of the children in fifth grade, sign autographs and even showed off his pitching skills with a kickball game. The students and faculty at Sixes were reeling with delight at this nice young man’s visit.

Reinhardt Makes Christmas Special for Local ChildrenReinhardt University, in conjunction with R.M. Moore Elementary School, the University’s Partner in Education, collected gifts for local families as part of the University’s annual Giving Tree. University faculty, staff and students donated 72 gifts ranging from clothes and shoes, to dolls and games. The gifts will be presented to 18 local children, ages 2 months to 11 years old. Giving Tree organizers included Reinhardt staff members Janna Moore (back row, from left), executive administrative assistant to the vice president of advancement and external affairs, and JoEllen Wilson, vice president for institutional advancement and external affairs; and R.M. Moore Elementary School volunteer Linda Costales and staff members Jon Costales, counselor, and Dottie Townsend (kneeling), secretary.

Knox Students Donate to MUSTMrs. Hale’s third grade class from Knox Elementary School participated in a classroom canned food drive. They met their classroom goal of collecting 200 cans to give to MUST Ministries.

First Row L-R: Matt Page, Colby Taylor, Chandler Stodghill, Jacson Fleming, Luke Flint. Middle Row: Collin Carlson, Grace Pierce, Kelli Rasmussen, Ashton Gulledge, Jackson Sears, Hudson Harper, Christopher Zaragoza. Back Row: Teacher, Mrs. Lori Hale.

Sixes Artwork Goes to Japan

The fifth grade students at Sixes Elementary participated in a Cherokee County art contest called the Japanese Art Exchange Contest. The students worked on creating pieces based on the theme of “Nature” for several weeks in art class. Six students artwork was selected as School-Level Winners of the Contest. These students’ artwork went on to compete with other schools in Cherokee County at the County-Level. This year all six pieces of artwork were selected as winners and are being airmailed to Japan for special display in the Japanese Meguro School District. The following students had a piece of artwork selected for this exhibit: James Boatwright, Alayna Dhanani, Riley Dodson, Kate Johnson, Tyler Kuczmanski, and Tommy Zamorski. At the end of the year, the pieces will be sent back and the students will get to take their winning artwork home. This is quite an honor.

Mike Spain, Jonathan Lacy and Landon Dixon interviewed Kenny Faulk for the WSIX news.


Information

SSCCHHOOOOLL

January 17 School Holiday

February 21 — 25 Winter Break

March 18 School Holiday

April 4 — 8 Spring Break

May 27 Last Day of School

Private Schools

American Heritage Academy(770) 926-7779, www.ahacademy.com

Cherokee Christian Academy and High School(678) 494-5464www.cherokeechristian.org

Furtah Preparatory School(678) 574-6488, www.furtahprep.org

Harvest Baptist School(770) 974-9091www.harvestbaptistacworth.org

Lyndon Academy(770) 926-0166, www.lyndonacademy.org

Mission Point Christian Academy(770) 479-5538, www.fbccanton.org

North Cobb Christian School(770) 975-0252, www.ncchristian.org

Shiloh Hills Christian School(770) 926-7729, www.shilohhills.com

St. Joseph Catholic School(770) 428-3328, www.stjosephschool.org

Public Schools

Canton Elementary School712 Marietta HighwayCanton, GA 30114(770) 720-6100Principal: Ms. Gwen Lince

Cherokee High School930 Marietta HighwayCanton, GA 30114(770) 479-4112Principal: Ms. Debra Murdock

Clayton Elementary School221 Upper Burris RoadCanton, GA 30114(770) 479-2550Principal: Ms. Beth Long

Freedom Middle School10550 Bells Ferry RoadCanton, GA 30114(770) 345-4100Principal: Ms. Karen Hawley

Hasty Elementary School205 Brown Industrial ParkwayCanton, GA 30114(770) 479-1600Principal: Mr. Izell McGruder

Knox Elementary School151 River Bend WayCanton, GA 30114(770) 345-4307Principal: Dr. Kelly Jo Brooks

Liberty Elementary School10500 Bells Ferry RoadCanton, GA 30114(770) 345-6411Principal: Dr. Nicole Holmes

M.A. Teasley Middle School8871 Knox Bridge RoadCanton, GA 30114(770) 479-7077Principal: Dr. Susan Zinkil

R.M. Moore Elementary School1375 Puckett RoadWaleska, GA 30183(770) 479-3978Principal: Ms. Jan Adamson

Sixes Elementary School20 Ridge RoadCanton, GA 30114(770) 345-3070Principal: Mr. John Hultquist

Woodstock High School2010 Towne Lake Hills South DriveWoodstock, GA 30189(770) 592-3500Principal: Mr. Bill Sebring

Woodstock Middle School2000 Towne Lake Hills South DriveWoodstock, GA 30189(770) 592-3516Principal: Mr. Mark Smith

Local Colleges & Universities

Kennesaw State University(770) 423-6000, www.kennesaw.edu

Chattahoochee Technical College(770) 528-4545, www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Reinhardt University(770) 720-5600, www.reinhardt.edu

2010 — 2011 Calendar at a Glance

Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com

Parent Connect: https://pcxp.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Cherokee County School District Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us (770) 479-1871


The Art of Listening and Good Communication with Dental Patients

There are many scenarios in everyday life that reflect good listening and ultimately good communication. A husband and wife are at the breakfast table and the husband has the morning paper in front of his face while his wife is explaining details about the day. A mom is explaining the importance of a school project to her teenage daughter while

she has on headphones and is tuning into the music more than the blah blah blah from mom. The busy manager at work who does not stop long enough to look at his co-worker and truly acknowledge their question. All of these examples relate to poor listening skills and produce the need to further review the information again, or worse, the loss of this information altogether. Communication requires a person providing information to be received by a person carefully listening to them.

In dentistry, the art of listening and communicating with dental patients is very important simply due to the professional nature of why the patient is in the dentist’s office. They are there for a dental diagnosis and any needed dental treatment. There are many forms of communication that take place in the dental office, which are important to identify. A patient will often communicate various concerns, such as being afraid of needles, hating the sound of the drill, being difficult to numb, being uncomfortable with lying too far back in the chair, and being sensitive to smell. A dentist could dismiss any of these comments as insignificant, but listening and communicating about them could yield tremendous benefits for the patient that pay great dividends in the outcome of their dental experience. For example, if a patient does not like the sound of the drill, noise-cancelling headphones available today allow the patient to enjoy music of their choice and redirect their attention in a positive direction. This could have been a lifelong obsession that was instantly overcome and says volumes about the personal attention they just received. The fear of needles is a big psychological barrier to dental care and if the dentist listens carefully to the patient and acknowledges this need, the dentist may communicate to them about the latest technology of computer anesthesia that is painless and immediately alleviates the patient’s fear. This allows the patient the confidence to schedule the needed treatment they may have otherwise avoided. The thoughtful suggestion of using nitrous oxide or Valium to help a patient relax from general anxiety can overcome tremendous barriers for patients if the dentist simply takes time to communicate this opportunity to their patient.

Some communication is not verbal, but based upon body language from the patient and is louder than words in many instances. This still requires good listening skills from the dentist but in a more intuitive way. If a patient does not immediately sit down in the dental chair, it is often a clear sign the patient is very nervous. It’s time to communicate about the ease of the dental care for that day and how comfortable the procedure will be. It’s a time to calm the patient down with words to help them put things in perspective. The dentist may talk about an unrelated topic to get their mind off the dental visit and help them release their anxiety and come full circle to the point of doing their dental care — once they are ready. This is the art of listening and good communication.

Communication does not only involve dental diagnosis and dental care but extends to other areas including insurance and fees. Expenses the patient will incur must be carefully explained to ensure care within their budget, and more importantly it helps avoid unexpected surprises. Dentists can contribute to this by ensuring the office’s systems are in place for patients to have financial reviews and insurance reviews before treatment is rendered. If any treatment changes during dental care while the patient is in the chair, the dentist can communicate with the patient regarding why treatment is changing and any additional fees to confirm that they agree and approve this in advance.

Providing a patient a good diagnosis is the primary role of a dentist and is only valuable when the doctor can communicate the realistic dental needs to the patient. The patient must understand and consent to the value of their dental needs. Today’s technology in dentistry involves cameras in the hygiene rooms that permit the patient to see pictures of their teeth and allows amazing communication that is now very visual. The dentist can communicate about these photos and show the patient about decay around old fillings, fractures in teeth, bleeding gums and many other issues. A picture is worth a thousand words and provides great communication in today’s world of dentistry. The art of listening and good communication with dental patients is very important to ensure that patients understand their dental needs, agree to required treatment, and most importantly receive their care in a calm and comfortable way.

Dr. Scott Harden is a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry and has served the Towne Lake area for over 21 years. He is a Dental Advisor for two nationally renowned dental research companies. Office: (770) 926-0000. Website: FountainViewSmiles.com.

by Dr. Scott R. Harden


NCAANCAA Signing DayNCAANCAA

Brianne Welch, SoftballLipscomb University

Front Row (L-R): Brian Welch (father), Student Athlete — Brianne Welch, Julia Ann Stuart (mother), Back Row (L-R): Phil Berry (Viper’s Travel Ball Coach), Tonya Carlisle (CHS Softball Coach), Debra Murdock (CHS Principal), Jack Wallner (CHS Athletic Director), Lee Stuart (Stepfather).

Recently, the NCAA Signing Day was held at the Northside-Cherokee Conference Center in Canton. Each athlete received a scholarship and signed their individual letter of intent with plans to play ball for their chosen university. Congratulations to the following players from Cherokee High School:

Natalie Rhodes, SoftballKennesaw State University

Front Row (L-R): Pat Rhodes (mother), Student Athlete — Natalie Rhodes, Mike Rhodes (father), Back Row (L-R): Phil Berry (Viper’s Travel Ball Coach), Tonya Carlisle (CHS Softball Coach), Debra Murdock (CHS Principal), Jack Wallner (CHS Athletic Director).

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NewsSPORTSSPORTSLocal Junior Golfer Receives Memorial ScholarshipThe Ed Liebman Memorial Scholarship Award was presented to Anna Higgins recently at the year-end BridgeMill Junior Golf Banquet held at Featherstone’s Grille at BridgeMill Athletic Club. This is the second year that this award has been presented. Anna is a 17 year old student attending Cherokee High School. She began playing golf just two years ago for the Cherokee High School golf program. She is an exceptional student maintaining an A average in her studies and works diligently with the younger juniors in the program with insight and encouragement. On hand to help present the award was Denise Killeen — teaching professional, juniors program, Zac Donavan — head golf professional, Tom Lossinger — director of instruction and Barney Liebman (Ed Liebman Memorial). The Ed Liebman Memorial is awarded every year in memory

of Barney Liebman’s brother who passed away after his heroic fight against pancreatic cancer.

Martial Arts Festival Held in CantonRecently, Yong In Tae Kwon Do held a Martial Arts Festival in the BridgeMill shopping center in Canton. The event promotes partnership and friendship in the community and businesses in the shopping center. The students at Yong In put on a martial arts demonstration to promote the school, the study of their art and, hopefully, to introduce Tae Kwon Do to future students. A special thanks to Edward Jones, Funky Monkey, MC Nails, Caprissio Sales, Earth Products, XS, Lyndon Academy, Don Rice, Optimal Fitness, The Computer Guys and everyone who came out to support the school and community.

(L-R): Denise Killeen, Anna Higgins and Barney Liebman.

K’anen Grizzle in the air and, standing, Anthony Thomas and Madison Thomas.

Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been putting “the heart and soul in sports” by challenging athletes and coaches to impact the world for Jesus Christ. As the largest sports ministry in the world, FCA now reaches over two million people annually on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels. Through this shared passion for athletics and faith, lives are changed – one heart at a time.

FCA has four specific areas of ministry that we call the 4 C’s: Coaches, Campus, Camps and Community.

FCA ministries reach the community through partnerships with the local churches, businesses, parents, grandparents and volunteers. These ministries not only reach out to the community, but also allow the community to invest in their local athletes and coaches. We are very thankful for our local community. We could not be here, doing what God has called us to do, investing in our coaches and athletes and all whom they influence, if it was not for the generous support, prayers and time that numerous local community members invest.

We are excited to announce that we are accepting student nominations for the 2011 FCA Leadership Summer Camp. Local Cherokee County athletes and students who exhibit leadership qualities and have a desire to grow and serve through our FCA Leadership

HUGE thanks to Dr. Scott Harden of Fountain View Dentistry and Michelle and Brian Meek of AroundAbout — West Canton and AroundAbout — East Canton magazines for stepping up and committing to provide SIX, Yes, “6” Scholarships to our 2011 FCA Leadership camp this summer! Way to go — helping to build stronger communities by investing in our kids and helping equip them with leadership skills! If you would like to nominate a middle or high school student to

receive a scholarship to an FCA Leadership camp, please contact Amy Turcotte at (770) 380-1432 to get all

the nomination details. We need more local businesses to help impact more kids.

camp are the perfect nominees. We will be talking to coaches, FCA teacher sponsors and would love to hear from you if you know of someone who you think would benefit from being sent to camp.

Cherokee County FCA has many partnerships and donors that provide valuable resources. We would like to thank all of you and over the next few months we will be sharing some stories of community members who have witnessed firsthand that the harvest is ripe and that investing in one kid or one heart at a time can have BIG results.

For more information about Cherokee County FCA, scholarships and joining our “Home team,” please contact us at (770) 380-1432 or www.cherokeefca.org.

(L-R) Marcus Fox, Amy Turcotte, Bill Queen and Diana Calvert – FCA Teammates

JANUARY 2011 WWW.AROUNDABOUTWESTCANTON.COM 25


Never Judge a Book by Its Cover

by Dr. Monika S. Yadav

Happy New Year! It’s hard to imagine that I’ve been practicing medicine for almost a decade now. Lately I’ve been reflecting on all the things I’ve learned from books AND from experience…. I am rarely deceived by looks anymore. FAT doesn’t always equal medical disaster and SKINNY doesn’t always mean one is fit and fabulous. I am not saying that extra weight doesn’t harm in other ways, like joint and breathing problems — but it does not necessarily mean that an obese person will have many diseases usually related to being inactive and carrying extra pounds. I have seen perfect blood pressures and cholesterol panels in sedentary folks and, sadly, have had to put athletes on medicines to manage those same numbers. One of the most important messages I want to send out to the community is about the power of genetics.

Almost every disease from asthma and heart conditions to depression and diabetes can be passed down genetically. But there are a few barriers that make it hard to know what may run in a family. Most people are influenced by the media. Unfortunately, the most advanced or stereotypical facets of a disease are presented. For example, one can only have diabetes if you are obese and urinate a lot — hardly ever the case when initially developing the disease. Fatigue and dry mouth are more common at the start. Similarly, depressives are thought to be those who cry a lot, eat a lot and sleep a lot. Usually being more snappy or tired and low libido are the usual clues. With subtle symptoms it is easy to blame other things — like “all working mothers are supposed to feel chronically tired and moody ” or “all dads juggling work, recession and expectations are supposed to be edgy and distant.” Another barrier is the lack of knowing the family history. Grandparents just passed away at 75 and all thought it was old age whereas if their high cholesterol or blood pressure (both usually asymptomatic until it’s too late) would have been managed, they could’ve survived for 20 more years. The last barrier is us. When we are younger, it is often felt that illnesses only happen to older people. When disease is passed down genetically, one can be a fit 20 year old when numbers begin to shift in the wrong direction.

So the bottom line of this article is, “NEVER ASSUME.” In today’s age of technology, good information is easily accessible. Sites like WebMD.com and heart.org have up to date and reliable insight on hereditary disease and how to fight it if possible. COMMUNICATE. Talk extensively

Dr. Monika S. Yadav is a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine who practices at 684 Sixes Road in Holly Springs. For appointments call (678) 494-9669.

continued on page 70

School Board News

by Janet Read

As 2010 draws to a close, I wanted to take this opportunity to reflect on this past year and to recognize some very important people. I am especially thankful this year to work with such a great group of teachers, administrators and district office staff. Their dedication to each and every student in the Cherokee County School District (CCSD) is considered in every action and every decision. This was especially evident this past week during our extremely cold weather and ice storm. The safety of our 39,000 students comes first in every decision we make. I appreciate those staff members that get up in the wee hours of the morning to determine if we should send our 300 buses out throughout the county that day. I appreciate the high school principals who followed the Superintendent’s directives and made the best possible decision for their school regarding final exams. I appreciate a Superintendent who gave directives, but knows that ultimately each Principal knows what is best for their students and gives them the discretion to make those final decisions.

I am thankful for our law enforcement teams who keep the CCSD in the loop about dangerous weather conditions and assist our system whenever needed. A special thanks to the Canton Police Department who aided us in getting every student and teacher home safely, even under icy road conditions.

I truly appreciate our three outgoing board members: Debi Radcliff, Stephen Bentley and Dr. Gary Puckett. Each of them has brought a different, yet welcomed, set of ideas and strengths to the school board. You all will be greatly missed, but your decisions and influence will continue to live on in our district mission and goals. I am looking forward to working with our three newest board members: Rob Usher, Michael Geist and Robert Wofford. Your willingness to serve every student in this district is admirable. Welcome aboard, but be sure to wear your seat belt! It could be a bumpy year.

I am thankful for the hundreds of taxpayers in this county who take the time to attend our meetings, send emails, write letters, make phone calls and let their voices be heard. You allow me to see the many facets of each situation and help me to gain a complete perspective on many issues.

Last but not least, I want to thank my two teenage sons for their constant support and encouragement. They love me unconditionally and constantly exemplify that the

Janet Read is the Board Chairperson and Representative for Post 4 for the Cherokee County School Board. Janet may be reached by e-mail at [email protected].


Comfortable, friendly, inviting…just a few of the words that perfectly describe the atmosphere at The Lodge at BridgeMill. Entering the foyer of the upscale Independent Senior Living Community, guests and residents alike are greeted by warm, friendly staff. The beautiful décor is reminiscent of the grand estates of the English Countryside and the services available are abundant. The Lodge at BridgeMill is a unique, affordable and luxurious alternative for active seniors with discerning taste who are seeking a carefree, maintenance free apartment home lifestyle. Complete with caring staff that have a passion for the residents they serve, the relationship is obvious — it is not just staff and residents, they truly are friends and The Lodge is truly home.

Each apartment at The Lodge offers spacious living quarters complete with kitchens, walk-

in closets, washer/dryer connections, one and two bedroom fl oor plans and much more. The activities available are endless and the services are fabulous. Daily exercise programs, card games, arts and crafts, movie nights, day trips, concerts…the list goes on and on. Many couples live at The Lodge in addition to many singles. A signifi cant part of the experience is keeping the residents active and social. By offering a variety of opportunities, the residents are able to get together to visit, either by taking part in one of the many activities or outings of the day or just relaxing by the fi re in the beautiful shared, living area and chatting with their neighbors. The common theme shared by the residents is not being alone. When asked about their feelings about the Lodge, the response was often the same, “I feel safe. I like the people. I am never alone,” shared Dolly. “I like the people and my

large apartment,” shared Marie and Charles Hightower. Dot said, “I have a lot of good friends. There is a lot going on.” Virginia offered, “I couldn’t ask for a better place.” Many of the residents moved from their home of many years. To feel comfortable, loved and cared for in their new home is their main goal.

Cambridge Health Care and Amedisys Home Health work in partnership with The Lodge to assist with any medical and daily, independent care needs. Transportation is provided to doctor’s appointments or the grocery store; the residents just arrange any transportation needs with the concierge. Fine dining is available at Center Cut Restaurant or the residents can choose to prepare their own meals at home. The Brass Pine Pub offers weekend entertainment and social gatherings.

Every detail at The Lodge at BridgeMill demonstrates a genuine focus on the residents that they serve. Stop in for a visit or a tour — you’ll see and feel the difference!

of th

$5 per person. Join us at The Lodge at BridgeMill for hot soup, fresh bread, dessert and drinks. This event is sponsored by the Lodge at BridgeMill and the Volunteer Aging Council of Cherokee County with proceeds benefi ting area seniors in need. Open to neighbors of all ages!


by Judy T. Ross

It’s easy to have confidence in investments made during bull markets: share prices climb and any losses from poor decisions are usually recovered fast. But times of increasing market volatility tend to magnify mistakes, and many investors may lose confidence in their decision making. Let’s take a quick look at some of these common — but generally avoidable — mistakes.

1. Timing the MarketDuring a downturn in the market, investors who regularly contributed to their portfolios when the market was rising often decide to stop investing until conditions improve. This can prove to be a costly mistake.

Not only is it impossible to time the ups and downs of the market with consistent success — by sitting on the sidelines during a down market, you could miss out on an opportunity to buy stocks and other investments at lower prices. In good times and bad, long-term investors should carefully consider the merits of dollar-cost averaging. By continuing to make investments of the same dollar value at regular intervals, investors can buy more shares when prices are low, fewer when prices are high.

A periodic investment plan such as dollar-cost averaging does not assure a profit or protect against a loss in declining markets. Also, since such a strategy involves continuous investment, investors should consider their ability to continue purchases through periods of low price levels.

It is also important to continue to make contributions to your 401(k) plan or similar employee-sponsored retirement plan. These contributions often “earn” matching funding from your employer — providing additional earnings potential.

2. Skipping the ResearchDetermining whether an investment is appropriate for your portfolio requires research. There are more companies and investment products to invest in today than ever before, and you need to gather information before you can determine which investments might have potential for growth.

Before making an investment decision, it’s helpful to evaluate it in the context of comparable opportunities. At a minimum, you should find two articles (from different authors) about the company or investment product and review the company’s website. Both the investor relations section and news announcements found on the website can provide useful information. You should also review financial statements and carefully investigate anything that looks vague or unusual.

Not only can doing your homework help you to make informed investment decisions, it can also help you to feel comfortable with the holding in spite of temporary ups and downs.

3. Chasing Past PerformanceYesterday’s hot stock may have already topped out. Today’s innovative start-up may not have the wherewithal to stay in business. So it’s important to base investment decisions on more than past performance and a few headlines. You should invest with the future in mind. If there is strong growth potential, and the fundamental likelihood of the company’s success looks good to you, then it may make sense to invest even after a successful run. Keep in mind, however, that past performance is no guarantee of future results.

4. Trading Too OftenFrequent trading often reduces the total return of your portfolio. In addition to the trading fees and taxes that it may incur, frequent trading does not reflect a long-term outlook and thoughtful investment strategies — neither timing the market nor running from losses enhances your portfolio’s performance.

5. Selling Low, Or Not At AllBefore selling a stock or investment product that has tumbled, it’s important to do some additional research to understand why it fell. This research will help you anticipate the holding’s potential for recovery. If the setback appears to result from a temporary problem that can be easily overcome, you may even want to consider buying more while the price is low.

Conversely, it’s also important to know when to take a loss. It hurts to lose money, but a little pain now may pay off in the long run. If your company or investment relies on an industry that is likely to remain weak for several years, consider selling to avoid any additional losses.

Learning from your own past mistakes, as well as from those made by others, is an important step toward becoming a better investor. To find out more about avoiding these and other mistakes often made by investors, contact your Financial Advisor.

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Judy T. Ross, Senior Financial Advisor, in Canton, Georgia at (770) 345-8008.

Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE

Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), and Member SIPC. J. ThompsonRoss Investments is a separate entity from WFAFN.

Five Investing Mistakes You Don’t Have to Make


Resolutions: We Make Em, We Break Em?

by Pete Thomas

“New Year resolutions are simply checks that people draw on a bank where they have no account.” — Oscar Wilde

Ninety-seven percent of people who make New Year’s resolutions will abandon them within the first 30 days. When folks say, “Gee, I’d like to ____, but I just don’t have the willpower….” they are correct. All of us suffer from different hurts, habits and hang-ups mainly based on depending on our own power and as a result of our best decisions.

Here are some simple things you can do to give some teeth to trying to improve your life:

1. Realize you’re not God. We all want to be the God of our lives, but we’re just not. We all are powerless to control our tendency to do the wrong thing.

2. If I’m not God, I need to believe that He IS, that I matter to Him and that He has the power to help me recover from the hurts that have been done to me, the habits I’ve collected along my life and the wrong way I deal with things, either through anger, shame, fear, etc.

3. Evaluate your relationships. Are you still hanging with the folks that keep you from becoming who you want to be? Ask forgiveness from people you’ve hurt.

4. Start small. You can’t change all of the things about you that you don’t like all at once.

5. Ask yourself, “What causes me the most harm in my life?” That thing you just thought of is where you need to concentrate.

6. Have some accountability. We all need someone who will, out of compassion, check up on us. Knowing there’s someone who will ask how I’m doing will motivate me to work toward my goal.

At Celebrate Recovery (CR), we learn that if we live in the past, i.e., missed opportunities, broken relationships, abuse, failure or fret about the future, we just lost today. In CR, along with other recovery programs, we emphasize living “one day at a time.” Truth be told, many of us need to live “one moment at a time.”

Here are some resolutions you can easily make and keep this year. Be a friend to the friendless. Be an encourager when everything in you wants to give up. Find an accountability partner. Come join us at Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered recovery program for all of life’s hurts, habits and hang-ups.

Pete Thomas is the Director of Celebrate Recover, meeting at Scott Mill Chapel in Canton. Please visit www.celebraterecovery.gutensite.com or call (678) 764-8660 for more information.

New Year’s Resolutions

by John Barker

Yes — we all have them, and many are centered around health endeavors like losing weight, eating better, drinking less caffeine (as if!), etc. If there’s anything I’ve learned about resolutions, having a plan to stick to it is pretty necessary in order to reach the goal. Along with the personal resolutions, why not have a plan that includes keeping your computers healthy?

Computer Resolution number 1: lose weight. Computers gain weight over time if not maintained properly, just like <ahem> we do. In the form of old programs, half-uninstalled “stuff” and normal bloat created by invalid registry links, fragmentation, and system volume snapshots (read: mini-backups), your computer’s excess hard drive “weight” can grow quite considerably. The result usually manifests itself in much slower performance as there’s just a lot more weight to pull along when attempting to do much of anything. Lose the weight; increase the computer’s metabolism.

Computer Resolution number 2: have a maintenance plan: Once you lose the weight, the idea is not to put it right back on. You CAN actually accomplish this on a computer by scheduling regular service “check-ups” just like you do for yourself (or your car, or your dishwasher). Left unattended, your newly revitalized machine will eventually end up back with the same bloat as if it sat on the couch and ate the entire bag of Doritos (again).

Computer Resolution number 3: have a backup plan. Resolutions can go astray. When they do, it’s good to have a Plan B. Even when you’re doing all the right things, sometimes the unexpected happens. In the computer world, that plan B would be data Backups. I know I’ve mentioned it before, and I think even before that, but It’s. That. Important. With backups, you have options.

Delphi would love to help you with your computer’s New Year’s Resolutions. We can help you lose weight. We have a maintenance plan available. We can get your backups started.

John Barker is Chief Infrastructure Architect for Delphi Global Technology. For information please visit their website at http://www.delphigt.com or call (404) 380-1726.

Please send us your Community, School & Sports News!

Email:[email protected]

J anuary 1, 2011 — 1-1-11 — New Year, new opportunities, new beginnings — one goal, one resolution, one YOU, and YOU are worth it! And one club that’s right for you…Anytime Fitness!

Your health — it often gets neglected in the hustle and bustle of work, kids, home life. Taking care of ourselves physically and mentally often ends up at the end of the priority list and all of a sudden we realize that we don’t feel as well as we used to, we don’t look as good as we used to — well, make 2011 the year of change! Put your health fi rst and let Anytime Fitness be your partner in a new, healthy way of life. Lifestyle choices affect all other areas of our lives; when we are feeling fi t and healthy, our energy overfl ows into all areas of our lives. Our physical fi tness and our mental fi tness go hand in hand. By making your physical health a priority, eating well and establishing a fi tness routine that’s right for you, you will be on your way to your best year ever, and the best YOU ever! There’s no better time — take the fi rst step toward a healthier lifestyle with Anytime Fitness!

Brennan Archer and Kyle Campbell are the proud owners of the four local Anytime Fitness facilities. As long time residents of Canton, Brennan and Kyle have a vested interest in the community. They understand the importance of locally owned and operated businesses and not only are they strong business owners,

but their businesses continue to grow. Recently adding their fourth Canton location, residents are offered the ultimate in convenience, having a club near home or work, and their growth is bringing economic growth to our community. Passionate about helping others achieve healthier lifestyles through fi tness, passionate about having the most convenient clubs in Canton, passionate about their community, Brennan and Kyle are passionate about Anytime Fitness. “Five years ago, we began to focus on helping Canton get healthy,” noted Kyle. It is not a secret that our society has seen an increase in obesity over the last decade. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System 2010, 27.2% of Georgians are obese. In the last 15 years, the Georgia obesity rate has increased 15 percent. In 2009, only two states in our country had less than 20 percent obesity rate. “We want to bring fi tness to Canton,” shared Brennan. “We care about our community’s health and well being.” Covering Canton with convenient locations, Anytime Fitness is the one for you!

The Right Club for You…

Hickory Flat, Holly Springs, Macedonia, Riverstone…Anytime Fitness makes getting in your work out easier than ever! Anytime Fitness is literally that — accessible anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year; they are even open for a holiday workout! With Club Key access, members are able to work out at any time convenient to their schedule. Join at any location and use any location, any time. With more than 1500 facilities worldwide, Anytime Fitness is doing away with all of the excuses. Want to meet a friend for a work out? How about Holly Springs? Need to work out on your way home from work? Stop in Hickory Flat! Visiting family out of town? Check out the location in their area. Anytime Fitness offers the convenience we all need to accommodate our busy lifestyles, while maintaining clean, friendly, non-intimidating clubs. Members have access to a wide variety of fi tness classes varying by location, as well as equipment varying by location, offering the opportunity to change up your work out just by visiting a different Anytime Fitness location. As an added convenience, tanning is also available at a nominal fee. Once you have joined Anytime Fitness, the possibilities are endless! With a new membership, you will receive a free personalized fi tness consultation where an individualized plan is created including

7-Day

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Join on the fi rst day of the guest pass and receive

one month FREE!


Join Anytime Fitness on January 17

& receive $100 OFF

enrollment & 1 month FREE!

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“Joining Anytime Fitness was one of the best decisions I have made for my health. I love to go to the gym at my convenience. Working full time and with community involvement, it makes it easier for me to be committed by accommodating my schedule. I enjoy the relaxed atmosphere along with the satisfaction of increasing my workout to my own individual tolerance level. I recommend it to anyone who has put it off and keeps saying they will do it later. Do it now, it will be the best thing you’ve ever done!” — Dale Morrissey

“My wife and I have been members for a couple of years. We like the convenience of being able to go to the gym at any time of the day or night. There are three locations within 15 minutes of our house, so we can get a variety of workouts as each gym has some different equipment. We meet and greet new friends at these gyms.” — Ronnie Holbert

a demonstration of equipment use and basic exercise principles, nutrition advice, personal training, as well as accountability.

Top of the line, commercial grade equipment is what you will fi nd at each Anytime Fitness club. Life Fitness and Star Trac technology is used to offer the best equipment available for the most effective work out experience. All cardio machines are equipped with personalized LCD monitors. Kyle and Brennan stay up to date on the latest fi tness technology, adding free weights, classes and equipment as needed to stay current with the trends and growing membership needs. Anytime Fitness strives to make your workout experience the best, most individualized, convenient, effective program — customized just for you!

Member safety is a top priority at each location. With 24-hour club access, Anytime Fitness has the latest, advanced security in place with eight surveillance cameras at each location and secure Club Key access to make your workout experience safe and comfortable, any time of the day or night.

As an added bonus, members of Anytime Fitness receive a nutrition discount at the Hickory Flat Smoothie King. Many nutrition products are available to enhance your fi tness regimen such as protein supplements, vitamins and of course smoothies for an after workout boost!

So, what are you waiting for? Month to month memberships are available as well as contract memberships. Convenience, state of the art equipment, class variety, customized workout programs…Let Anytime Fitness be your partner in making 2011 your best year ever! YOU are worth it!

Free Group Fitness Classes

Over 30 classes to choose from per week!

• Zumba Fitness

• Yoga

• Pilates

• Total Body Conditioning

• Power Pump

• Weighted Aerobics

• Cycle

• Boot Camp


The first building for Canton First United Methodist Church was a small, wooden frame structure. It was used until the second building was started on the same site around 1850. This church was made of brick and was used until around 1920 when plans for a new church were begun. That church was completed and dedicated in 1926 and is now the offices for the Cherokee County Arts Center in downtown Canton, next to Riverview Cemetery. The church congregation later purchased land and built a new

structure on Lower Scott Mill Road off of Highway 140. Information taken from The Heritage of Cherokee County

The second church for the First United Methodist Church.


Restaurants

All-Around Restaurant ___________________________

Asian Restaurant _______________________________

Bakery ________________________________________

Barbecue Place _________________________________

Breakfast Place _________________________________

Coffee Shop ____________________________________

Dessert Place ___________________________________

Fast Food Restaurant ____________________________

Fine Dining Restaurant ___________________________

Italian Restaurant _______________________________

Kid-Friendly Restaurant __________________________

Lunch Place ____________________________________

Mexican Restaurant _____________________________

New Restaurant ________________________________

Pizzeria _______________________________________

Seafood Restaurant ______________________________

Sports Bar _____________________________________

Services

Auto Repair ___________________________________

Car Wash ______________________________________

Caterer _______________________________________

Chiropractor ___________________________________

C.P.A./Bookkeeping/Tax Service ____________________

Day Care/Preschool ______________________________

Day Spa _______________________________________

Dentist ________________________________________

Pediatric Dentist ________________________________

Eye Doctor _____________________________________

Financial Institution/Bank _________________________

Hair Salon _____________________________________

Home Improvement/Repair Service _________________

Insurance Agent (specify agent)/Agency _____________

______________________________________________

Lawn Care/Maintenance __________________________

Medical Practice ________________________________

Nail Salon _____________________________________

Orthodontist ___________________________________

Painter/Painting Service __________________________

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Photographer __________________________________

Print Shop/Copy Center __________________________

Veterinarian ___________________________________

Cast your Vote Online At:

www.aroundaboutwestcanton.com 36 AROUNDABOUT — WEST CANTON JANUARY 2011

Retailers

Children’s Clothing ______________________________

Convenience/Gas Station _________________________

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Electronics/Appliance Store _______________________

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Frame Shop ____________________________________

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Grocery Store __________________________________

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Jeweler _______________________________________

Liquor/Spirits Store ______________________________

Music Store ____________________________________

Pet Supply Store ________________________________

Shoe/Footwear Store ____________________________

Specialty Foods _________________________________

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Tire Shop _____________________________________

Toy Store ______________________________________

Recreation and Entertainment

Dance Studio ___________________________________

Fitness/Health Club _____________________________

Golf Course ____________________________________

Gymnastics Center ______________________________

Movie Theater __________________________________

Residential Development

Apartment Community ___________________________

Subdivision ____________________________________

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES!

CONTEST RULES

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Only ballots with name, phone number and signature will be accepted. Please fill out the box below.

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Return ballot by Monday, February 28 at 5 p.m.

Mail or drop off at: AroundAbout — West Canton

151B East Marietta Street, Canton, GA 30114

Or submit your votes online at:www.aroundaboutwestcanton.com



TV Entertainment

by Michael Buckner

Why do we pay so much for our TVs? Fact is, despite the big price tag, it’s the cheapest form of entertainment out there. From the movie theater to bowling, almost anything you do for entertainment will cost at minimum $10 per hour, per person. Most of the time it’s much more than that. With TV, however, even with a premium channel package and a huge rockin’ system, hourly entertainment is more like $0.30 per hour over the life of your gear! But are you getting all of the bang for your buck? Chances are you could add a few more bells and whistles to your system without spending very much money or any at all. Here are a few tips:

#1. If you have Satellite, plug your receiver into an internet connection. This will get you THOUSANDS of free on-demand titles at your fingertips, and it gives you something to watch in that rare event that a storm is severe enough to knock out your signal. I love this feature too because I can watch The Daily Show on my own time, not whenever it happens to be playing on Comedy Central.

#2. Make sure you’re using the best kind of video connection. So often I see people with HD equipment and because of the way they have it hooked up, it’s SD. Even if you are using the proper HDMI cable for the connection, make sure that you also have your Cable Box, Satellite, or DVD player set to 1080p. This oversight can make a REALLY huge difference. #3. If you have a Blu-Ray Player, make sure it’s connected to the internet, and run any software and/or firmware updates that are available. This is a free thing to do, and will often times add a ton of new services. Samsung has recently added an “App Store” to their players, complete with Netflix, Pandora, and much more. All it really takes is plugging in an Ethernet cable and the updates should pop up automatically.

#4. Check into the latest add-ons to TV services. Some cost, and some are just a phone call away, but chances are that you could add some features for cheap. DirecTV has the new Whole House DVR for $3 per month, and Dish just added GoogleTV. Both of these are VERY cool new features for very little money. The GoogleTV adds so much to your services it’s crazy. You can now have live web browsing while the TV channels play in the corner of the screen.

Michael Buckner is the owner of Audio Intersection. For questions or to set up an appointment, please call (770) 479-1000.


Don’t Forget the Ducts

by Dan Jape

One of the most important aspects of your home’s heating and cooling system is the duct work. Proper duct work can make a huge difference in the comfort and efficiency of your home. I visit four or five customer’s homes each day and in the vast majority of them, I find duct work issues that need to be corrected to make sure the new heating and cooling system we install will deliver what is promised in terms of comfort and efficiency. I see a number of customers who simply are talked into replacing the equipment in their home without analyzing the distribution system and they end up with the same poor comfort level they had before they purchased a new system.

One of the most frequent problems we find is lack of the proper amount of return or intake duct work. A proper operating system has to have the correct amount of return ducts to match the output of the system. Without the correct amount of intakes, many problems will arise such as lack of cooling capacity, overheating furnace heat exchangers, freezing cooling coils and reduced life of the entire system. Many homes suffer from this issue and it must be corrected when upgrading your HVAC system.

Many homes have duct work built out of fiberglass or duct board. This a foil covered, glue impregnated sheet of fiberglass that is used as plenums or distribution boxes on the top and the sides of furnaces and is a very poor choice for ducting material. It is very porous and rough inside and collects dirt and debris and after a few years of service is always filthy dirty. Mold grows on the inside of this material and it is very hard to keep the corners and seams sealed up to keep air from leaking out in attics or basements. Metal ducts and plenums need to be installed to replace this inferior product when a new system is installed in your home to assure you of proper airflow, comfort, and efficiency. In some extreme cases, I find actual splitter boxes or wyes made of this duct board to try and save money on new home construction. You can find these by looking for boxes made into triangle shapes with many ducts attached to them. These impede airflow, overwork the furnace blower, and provide inferior comfort to the entire home. They have to be replaced to make sure you are getting the full comfort and efficiency a new HVAC system can provide.

The last and one of the most important aspects of your ducts is making sure they are sized properly to deliver the correct amount of airflow to each room in your home.

Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating and Air, located at 13987 Highway 92 in Woodstock. You may contact him at (770) 594-9096.



Jesus the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever

A Commentary by Rev. Norman Hunt

In the book Future Shock, Alvin Toffler tells us that we are living in the age of “ad hocracy.” By this he suggests that everything about us is changing. Big businesses are appointing Boards of Directors and hiring staff on a temporary basis, thus the term, “ad hoc committees.”

Young people are peer pressured into thinking that they are not living unless they are “with it” in terms of lifestyle, conversations and interests. Yet overnight what seemed to be the “in thing” is now regarded as “old hat” and passé. In the words of Henry Lyle, “change and decay in all around I see.” But thank God for the truth that follows — “O Thou, who changest not, abide with me!”

Only one person is always contemporary and that is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Two thousand years ago a New Testament writer penned these words, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever,” Hebrews 13:8. Prophecy and history have confirmed the accuracy of this statement throughout the centuries.

There are reasons why Jesus is the contemporary Christ. First of all, Christ is always relevant. This cannot be said about anyone else in the universe. It is supported by the teachings of the Bible and everyday experience. Jesus is relevant to every age, to every race and to every need. While it is true that great technological changes have taken place throughout the centuries, man basically has never changed. His fashions and fads have altered with the passing of time, but his nature and need have been identical with every generation since the fall of Adam. He still loves and laughs; he still hunts and hates; he still buys and sells and even more importantly, he still sins and dies. Man is basically the same as he has always been, in need of forgiveness. Only Christ Jesus, “the same yesterday, today and forever” is able to meet man’s greatest need of forgiveness in the cross of Calvary.

As we enter this New Year with all the changes it will bring, be encouraged — Christ Jesus never changes. You can trust your life to Him. Happy New Year!

Rev. Norman R. Hunt is the Pastor of Hopewell Baptist Church.www.hopewellbaptist.com.

Holiday Road

by Dawn Mason, D.V.M.

Road travel is popular for large families during holidays, vacations and day trips. It is more efficient, cost-effective and flexible. However, traveling with a pet can sometimes put a damper on things if you don’t have your “T”s crossed before you leave the driveway. Planning ahead for your pet is important to allow your travel to be pleasant and without surprises.

First, make sure your pet has identification. Buy a tag or collar that establishes owner’s name, the pet’s name, the pet’s birthday, telephone number, address and medical needs. For example, engrave a one word medical concern like, DIABETIC. I would also recommend a microchip. This is a small identification chip implanted between the shoulder blades. It attaches a number to your pet. If your pet is lost, most animal facilities have microchip scanners that detect the number which then gets tracked in a system. Once a match is found, an owner can be notified should their pet be lost. It is important to update your microchip information with the company manufacturer if you move, give the pet away or change veterinary hospitals.

Consider traveling with your pet either in a carrier or a safety harness. Pets can’t defy motion or gravity should you slam on the brakes or have the misfortune of an accident. Freely roaming pets may also contribute to these sudden actions. You can find approved ways of restraining your pet at local pet stores or online pet retailers.

If you make several pit stops consider the temperature outside. Extreme cold climates aren’t good for the pet when you stop at the local Cracker Barrel for breakfast. Keep extra bedding in the car for the pet to burrow under for warmth. The average car heats up to fatal temperatures quickly in the summer. Imagine wearing a fur coat and being left inside with the windows cracked.

Carry a copy of your pet’s vaccinations. Some states even require a health certificate for state-to-state travel. Know the animal laws for each state you enter. You would hate to end up with a ticket for not having proper documentation of your furry friend.

Lastly, outline possible veterinary hospitals and emergency clinics along your route and final destination. You never know when your pet’s ear may flare up. It’s best to know where to go when you have a sudden emergency.

Dawn Mason D.V.M. is a 1999 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine and practices at BridgeMill Animal Hospital.


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Pizza — Not Just FoodIt’s Bigger Than That

by Dr. Michael Anderson

Each New Year seems to pass more rapidly than the last with less family time.

In this world of multitasking, making and eating a Chicago-style pizza together has become one delicious way we enjoy our time together. Chicago winters necessitate hearty meals that feed body and soul.

So in the 1940’s Chicago families invented an inexpensive but tasty new casserole — the deep-dish, double-crust, stuffed pizza. The web reads, “Best Pizza in America” (NBC) and “Ultimate Pizza is found in Chicago” (NY Times). Why else would Southerners spend sixty dollars having one shipped to Atlanta? Instead, take a ten inch cast-iron skillet and try this at home.

For beginners, buy fresh pizza dough at Publix keeping it cool until it’s time to roll. Have ready: butter, garlic, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, pasta sauce, fresh basil, and perhaps mushrooms, or spinach, or pre-cooked sausage.

Lightly butter and salt the inside of the iron skillet. Roll-out pizza dough as for pie, creating two crusts, one approximately 15 inches and the other roughly 10 inches. Press the larger crust inside the skillet. Keep extra over the sides to pinch later with top crust.

Layer-up the pizza with mozzarella, garlic, basil. Add mushrooms, or whatever you please...except anything juicy or you’ll have a soup. Continue filling the pizza, layer by layer, until reaching the top. Next, place the top crust and pinch the lower and top crust as a pie. Only on the outer-side of the top crust, spread pasta sauce and dust all with Parmesan.

IMPORTANT: rapidly heat the filled skillet on the stove-top until the handle is warm and the butter begins to bubble along the insides. When the skillet is very hot, move all to the preheated 325 degree oven and bake for 30 minutes or so. Your efforts will disappoint if you forget to heat the pie-filled skillet on the stove-top before baking.

Finally, patience is the next virtue. Resist the urge to eat immediately. Like a pie, let this pizza rest a bit in the skillet before serving. Cut the pizza carefully before you bring the (still warm) skillet to the dinner table.

Doc Anderson, MD, FAAP writes for N. GA Kids, and is a pediatrician in Canton and a medical director and Asst Prof of Pediatrics at Children’s Pediatrics Ctr. (770) 720-6963, www.happyhealthy®.com


3, 2, 1 . . . Happy New Year

by Melissa Llano

Ahh, the New Year! That first day in January — Feels like a fresh start, a new beginning, bright hopes, a novel outlook.

As you are taking stock of where you are and where you need to be in 2011, there may be many areas of your life you consider. The most common resolutions that people create are ones that have to do with their health, both physical and financial.

I say this is the year to look at your cup and find it half full. Look for the silver lining; seek out positive people with which to surround yourself. Discover your opportunities. STOP listening to the media and stop being paralyzed by fear.

As a Real Estate Professional, one thing comes to mind to me personally that so many people are missing right now:

The GREATEST opportunities in real estate in our lifetime exist NOW. It is doubtful we will see this opportunity again in our generation.

You need to ask yourself, “Am I going to be sorry that I did not invest in a rental?” “Buy that home our family always wanted?” “Sell to move up and take advantage of a fabulous interest rate?”

Did you know that your ability to buy a home is so strongly dependent on the interest rate that you can actually buy MORE HOME with a lower interest rate? Once the rate goes up, you will not be able to buy the same price home. This means less buying power and perhaps less satisfaction for you.

If you have been thinking about selling but haven’t had the guts to face the market, I will be blunt: it is challenging…NOT impossible, challenging. However, the equity you can pick up when you buy is incredible. As a local investor stated to me one day, “the money is not made when you sell a house; they money is made when you buy it.” In other words, if you buy well, you are stepping into a home with equity and a sound financial investment.

There are all kinds of options for financing right now. There is some owner financing out there now. You can obtain a renovation loan (a 203k) through FHA, conventional loans that do not require 20 percent down, and even a BUY DOWN where the Seller buys down your interest rate OR can pay your first six months principal and interest. This has to be with a willing Seller and savvy Lender (I have some of those on my team!) and it can work beautifully.

If you have been holding back, this may be your year. You

Melissa Llano is a REALTOR with Keller Williams Realty Select Partners and can be reached at (770) 312-4153 or [email protected].


Honesty, Integrity, and just good old-fashioned Hard Work!

This is the value system that makes me successful as a REALTOR®. Real estate can be risky business these days and you must hire a REALTOR® who puts your needs first. I will tell you how I can help and I will follow through. As an excellent communicator, you will find I respond quickly . . . and I will always tell you like it is. No lines, no fluff, no smoke and mirrors. Just transparent character, solid work ethic.

You can count on me!!

TRUST

Melissa Llano A NAME YOU CAN “Melissa is very dedicated

and professional. She really cared about our needs and our family and made us feel like she was working just for us.”

~ Sam and Glennis W.

"If it wasn't for Melissa we would not have our dream house!! She was so patient with us and listened to all our wants and expectations.”

~ Sid and Melissa W.

“Contacting Melissa about selling my home as a short sale was the best thing I could have done. My home sold within 2 months.”

~ Beatrice H.

“Melissa was such an asset to us in the selling of our home in a weak market. Her communication with us was constant, and her expertise was refreshing.”

~ Laure G. Melissa Llano

www.melissallano.com Mobile: (770) 312-4153 | Office: (678) 493-2100 2205 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 107, Canton, GA 30114

WWinter cold and snow provide a number of opportunities to get outside and participate in activities such as skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling. However, without proper protection, cold weather-related injuries can occur. This is especially true if there are high winds or if clothing is wet. In general, it is the temperature and the duration of exposure that play a role in determining the extent and severity of cold-related injuries.

Frostbite is one such cold-related injury that can occur in extreme conditions. Frostbite occurs when there is freezing of an affected area, usually affecting the hands, feet, nose, or ears. Injury results from decreased blood flow and reduced heat delivery to body tissues.

Anyone can develop frostbite but the young and the elderly are especially prone to injury. In the young, the small size of their extremities and their limited mobility makes them more likely to be affected while in the elderly, poor circulation and limited mobility increase their susceptibility. Individuals who work outdoors, the homeless, and those who engage in outdoor activities, even hunting, are also at an increased risk. Alcohol and illicit drug use make it more likely to develop frostbite because these people may not sense that they are in danger. Also, certain medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and circulatory problems can also play a part.

The symptoms of frostbite may present as burning, numbness, tingling, or itching in the affected areas. Depending on the extent and time of injury, the affected area may appear pale, red, bluish/gray or black with the presence of clear or purplish colored blisters. In deep frostbite, there is an initial decrease in sensation that is eventually completely lost.

Everyone should be aware of factors that can contribute to frostbite, such as extreme cold, wet clothes, high winds, and poor circulation. There are some common sense things that you can do to help prevent frostbite.

• Dress for the weather. Wear wind-proof, water-resistant, many-layered clothing.

• Cover your head, face, nose, and ears at all times.

• If you expect to be exposed to cold weather for a long period of time, do not drink alcohol or smoke.

• If possible, move indoors to a warmer environment.

Severe frostbite requires immediate medical attention. However, only a doctor can determine the severity of the injury. If you can’t get to a medical facility promptly, here are some things that you can do:

• Move into a warmer environment and remove wet clothing.

• Re-warm the affected area. Soak in warm, not hot, water for 20 to 30 minutes.

• Apply dry, sterile dressings to the frostbitten areas. Put dressings between frostbitten fingers or toes to keep them separated.

• Do not rub or massage the affected area as this will cause further damage.

• Never use direct heat such as a heating pad or hair dryer to warm the affected area.

• Do not pop blisters that appear. Doing so can cause infection.

• Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Information obtained from www.MedicineNet.com, www.kidshealth.org, and www. Emedicinehealth.com.

This information provided by Charles R. Cooley, M.D of M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine, located in the Riverstone Medical Complex. For more information about frostbite, please call 770-720-7000 or visit their office at 720 Transit Avenue in Canton, next to Cracker Barrel. No appointment is necessary. They are open every day from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

by Charles R. Cooley, M.D.


Suzanne Speaks: 31 Days to Get Organized With 31 Gifts

by Suzanne Taylor

One common New Year’s resolution is to get organized and with this direct selling company, “Thirty-One Gifts,” you can purchase fashionable products with a purpose. Everyone is busy with family schedules, work, friends, keeping up their homes and daily to-do lists. Did you know that 80 percent of household clutter is a result of disorganization, not lack of space? I need everything in this catalog to start 2011 out organized!

Denise Nani (pictured) of BridgeMill, has four teenage boys and wanted to start saving for college. Thirty One Gifts offers a wide variety of boutique type products from totes to bibs to purses with a “must-have” item for everyone that can also be monogrammed with a phrase, name or initials. By combining her love of girlfriends and shopping into an exciting part-time job, Denise was thrilled with the fun, functional and whimsical items.

The Thirty One Gifts mission is to Celebrate, Encourage and Reward women. It was started in 2003 and has grown over 200 percent in the last year. Her most recent feedback from a customer was an email that read “I can’t stand it. I’ve got to have a large utility tote for myself. Is it too late to order?” She said that is a very typical response from customers. They order a few items for themselves or as a gift for someone, and then they find themselves placing another order! As a reward there is a monthly customer special. It is usually for every $31 dollars you spend you are eligible to receive the special. The January special is the Thermal Tote for $10 and the Small Lunch Tote for $8. Then, the monogramming is only $1.50 instead of $6 and no purchase limit.

One of Denise’s favorite items is a $29 storage tote in deep pink circles monogrammed with “Mom’s Stuff.” Her great friend ordered it and Denise ended up keeping it for her party display kit and getting her another one. There are many different items that are great for organizing your life in many coordinating fabric patterns. A few of Denise’s favorites that she uses on her way to her son’s various sporting events are the Organizing Shoulder Bag for her personal items such as her wallet and cell phone; the Picnic Thermal Tote for her drinks and her About Town Blanket, the Square Utility Tote for team snacks and the Large Utility Tote for everything from blankets to gloves.

After looking through the catalog a few times, I love the practical comments like “this purse holds seven boxes of movie candy” or “this tote keeps 17 boxes of thin mint cookies from melting!” I can’t decide if my first purchase should be the cosmetic bag, beach bag, or the blanket and then I’ll get the lunch tote for my special. In addition, I get to choose the fabrics and monogrammed letter fonts too.


January• Downtown Canton was bustling with new business! Fabiano’s

Pizzeria and Bleu Dame both decided to make their home in this historic area and are s ll serving our local community.

• Jaime Wilson, a faithful volunteer with The Georgia Animal Project, was recognized as the Pathfi nder of the Month.

• The NCAA Signing Day was held at Mason’s Sports Grill (currently known as Sidelines Grille) for local, high school athletes to sign their le ers of intent.

• The vo ng began for the 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards, an opportunity to vote for your favorite business in our community — all vo ng was done online to support Going Green.

February• Nell and Jake Chadwick were recognized as the 2010 Tournament

of Roses winner. Mr. and Mrs. Chadwick won this honor as the longest married couple in the area — 71 years.

• Five Guys Burgers and Fries announced that they would be growing, adding a new loca on in the Main Street at Riverstone Plaza in Canton.

• The Cherokee County Coopera ve Extension recognized the local 4-H program.

• Teacher of the Year vo ng began with a chance to vote for your favorite teachers. Each teacher on the ballot won Teacher of the Year at their respec ve school and were then voted on by the community to win Teacher of the Year for AroundAbout.

• Cherokee County Historical Society celebrated Black History Month, recognizing Magnolia Thomas. Her home was located in downtown Woodstock.

March• City on a Hill United Methodist Church signed a lease to renovate

and locate their church to the former Woodstock Public Library.

• Many local students were recognized for their outstanding school and community achievements in our School Time Kudos sec on.

• AroundAbout magazines recognized March as Scou ng Month. Many outstanding scouts were highlighted, recognizing many incredible areas of community involvement.

April• Terrifi c area teachers were honored as our Teacher of the Year for

the AroundAbout magazines.

• Delphi Global Technology relocated their offi ces to Marie a Highway in Canton, off ering our area assistance with any IT related needs.

• Yawn’s Books and More, Inc. added a J.C. Penney catalog center in their store in downtown Canton.

• The Best of the Best votes were counted! The Readers’ Choice winners were announced this month, recognizing local businesses that received the most votes in their individual categories.

• The Summer Camp Guide came out, off ering many local op ons for summer camps.

• AroundAbout celebrated Earth day featuring local businesses off ering “green” products and services.

May• Many area Mothers were recognized for Mother’s Day with sweet

notes and le ers sent in by children and family members.

• Excep onal local resident and student, Alicia Thigpen, and her family were honored with a home makeover by Keller Williams Realty Select Partners for their Second Annual R.E.D. Day Event.

• Gradua on ceremonies took place all over the county.

June• The ribbon cu ng ceremony was held for the new 151 Main offi ce

building in historic downtown Canton.

• Many area churches held Vaca on Bible Schools for local area kids.

• This month, it was the dads’ turn in the spotlight. Jason Roberts was recognized as Father of the Year with many others recognized with honorable men ons.


• AroundAbout featured our Medical Guide, educa ng the community on many op ons for care in our area.

• Reinhardt College took on a new name — Reinhardt University.

July• Northside Cherokee Urgent Care Center opened in the new

Northside/Holly Springs Medical Offi ce.

• Give a Kid a Chance held their back to school bash. This Cherokee outreach program provided thousands of local children with backpacks, school supplies and clothing to help them get ready for a successful school year.

• The Voters’ Guide was provided to assist area residents with the 2010 Primary Elec on.

August• The kids went back to school, the 2010-2011 school year was

offi cially underway.

• The 2010 Summer Photo Contest winners were announced. Many entries were received; local residents shared photos from around the world!

• The Lake Allatoona Associa on works to raise awareness of the needs of this beau ful lake and surrounding areas.

• Pure Taqueria, Funky Monkey Upscale Kids store, Bella Bou que, Moe’s Southwest Grill and Shane’s Rib Shack par cipated in a local fundraising event, giving a por on of their proceeds to local chari es — Local Chari es Get Support from Local Businesses.

September• Local high school football teams kicked off the 2010 season.

• AroundAbout celebrated Grandparent’s Day, honoring many wonderful grandparents in our area. Families shared many happy memories of their grandparents through le ers and photos.

• Firefi ghter Apprecia on Week was recognized September 12 — 19.

October• The fi rst annual Cherokee County FCA Fields of Faith event was

held at Cherokee High School. The ini a ve to bring this event to Cherokee was made by Brandon Roberts, a freshman at Cherokee High School. Ma hew Blaylock, a Cherokee High School athlete and graduate, was the youth keynote speaker.

• Cherokee County enjoyed the autumn season with many outdoor Fall Fes vals and Halloween Happenings.

• The Cherokee Family Violence Center held many community events to raise awareness about Domes c Violence, in honor of Domes c Violence Awareness Month.

November• Local business took part in the AroundAbout 2010 Holiday Guide,

sharing their stories about their business and their holiday highlights.

• The Helping Hands sec on was featured, off ering our community many opportuni es to give back during the Holiday Season.

December• Our local communi es celebrated the Holiday Season with

many fes ve events: parades, Menorah Ligh ngs, Santa visits, Nutcracker performances, arts and cra shows, musical concerts, Tour of Homes and more!

• Looking ahead to a new year, full of possibili es and new beginnings.

Happy New Year from AroundAbout — WEst Canton!



Long Live Romance

by Carole May

No more Monday nights with “The Bachelorette.” I enjoyed “Dancing with the Stars” but I miss “The Bachelorette!” Oh, how I looked forwarded to sitting down, propping my feet up on the ottoman for another episode of this show. Just one click of the remote and the daily grind of errands and housework disappeared. I watched as Ali (a rejected contestant of “The Bachelor”), waited anxiously as each handsome male exited a limousine. Your guess was as good as mine as to who this girl would choose. However it wasn’t until Roberto made his appearance that the electricity of his presence lit up more than Ali’s heart. I found myself singing a song from “West Side Story” but changing the lyrics to “Roberto! Roberto! I just met a man named Roberto!” It was love at first sight. I confirmed that with my friends when I called them that night. I’m not talking about Ali. I’m speaking of little old me. He was what every woman dreams of — sexy! He was handsome, kind and polite and had a face that was out of sight. I clicked the rewind more than once that night. The show became the Monday Night Football for this writer. Nothing else mattered for two hours. I didn’t realize how addicted I had become until my husband accidently taped over it. I felt as if I had been stood up! Where else could I have flown to places (by proxy), jumped into the water with sting rays, danced in the street with the man I love and then kissed in the rain while standing in a body of turquoise water? I had all this without ever having to leave my air conditioned, TV room. No sweets for me. This show was my “brain candy”.

Oh! Young love, how wonderfully romantic! Thank you Roberto! You made Carole May think about what it was like years ago to be in the pink! Unfortunately at this age the color I wear is purple with an accent of red on the top of my head (hat, if you didn’t know that). Thank you Roberto for reminding me of my young love (hubby) who at present lies sound asleep across the room while my watch is reading half past noon These days he’s up at 5 a.m. and in for the night by 10. Here’s to “The Way We Were” and the words on my birthday cake, “The Best Is Yet To Come!” Now, let me raise my warm glass of milk to the Bachelorette, Ali and her Roberto who most likely I will never meet. You two really gave this devoted viewer quite a treat. Long Live Romance!

Carole May is a freelance writer for AroundAbout West Canton. Email her at [email protected].

Feel free to e-mail questions to me at [email protected].

Send us your Community, School & Sports News!

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Traffic Laws and Courteous DrivingPart 1

by Sgt. Will Rownd

I know I will strike a few nerves with this article, but I believe these topics need to be reiterated. I am going to address some common laws and practices that either are not followed or completely unrecognized. Everyone is in such a hurry to get everywhere that we forget that driving is a privilege and not a right and can be removed by the state of Georgia at any time. I am going to lay out a number of things that will keep you from getting road rage or keep you from giving road rage to someone else. Again, like most of my articles, some of these issues are common sense but not everyone conforms.

One of the biggest violations that I see daily is the failure to use a blinker. Not using your turn signal is still a violation of state law. This is a simple, effortless way to let others around you know when you are about to change directions. In case you do not know where this piece of equipment is located, it is on the left hand side of the steering column. Automotive engineers put it there so little to no effort needs to be employed to activate it. This will eliminate excessive honking from the person behind you when you suddenly turn with no signal. Accelerating to the speed limit while entering an interstate system will keep you from getting run over and will allow you to enter traffic at the same speed the other cars are traveling. This will also remove the person who is attached to your bumper if you are attempting to merge onto an interstate at 47 miles per hour. I can almost guarantee you will not receive some sort of hand gesture, high beam, or other rude behavior if you get up to speed when entering the interstate. The last topic I am going to cover is the use of devices that take your attention away from driving. There are a few new laws out there to help your attention span while driving a motor vehicle. The new texting laws (40-6-241.1 and 40-6-241.2) apply to drivers under 18 and drivers over 18. Drivers under 18 years of age cannot use a mobile phone for anything except an emergency! No texting, no phone calls, no MySpace, no NOTHING while driving. Those of us over 18 can use the mobile phone for phone calls but cannot use the data portion. That means no texting, no Facebook, and no e-mails. You are not even allowed to check these things at a stop light or stop sign. Your attention needs to be on driving. It is a $150 fine if you get caught and a $300 fine if you’re involved in an accident while doing one of these acts.

I know this was a little off the tone of what I normally write, but I believe these issues of road rage need to stop. Remember the Golden Rule: treat others as you would like others to treat you.

NewsLIBRARYLIBRARY

Special January EventsJanuary 8, 22 & 29 10:30 a.m.R.T. Jones Memorial LibrarySuper Saturday — Family Story Time

January 11, 6:30 p.m.R.T. Jones Memorial LibraryPajamaRama — Family Story Time

January 13, 4 p.m. R.T. Jones Memorial LibraryAurora of the Northern Light’s Snow Flake FestivalWinter is all around so join us as local author Holly Hardin tells her tale Aurora of the Northern Lights complete with snowfl ake craft. This program is for children 5 years old and up. Space is limited. Registration is required.

January 15, 10:30 a.m.R.T. Jones Memorial LibrarySpanish Story Time — Family Story Time

January 26, 4 p.m. Woodstock Public LibraryP.I.: Investigator of CrimeCalling all local sleuths, amateur detectives and mystery lovers ages 9 years old and up for an event celebrating detective work with hands on activities and games. Space is limited. Registration is required.

R.T. Jones Memorial LibraryFamily Story Times — Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Lapsit — Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Woodstock Public LibraryLapsits — Wednesdays, 10 & 11 a.m.

Family Story Times — Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Week of January 3: “Fables and Fairytales”

Week of January 10: “Scrum-didley-umptious!”

Week of January 17: “Over the Rainbow”

Week of January 24: “A Case of the Grumps”

Week of January 31: “Snuggle Up!”

Story Times

R.T. Jones l Woodstock

January‛s Trivia Question: When was the fi rst Super Bowl held? Where was it held? Who played?

If you know the answer or fi nd the picture, be the fi rst to call (770) 720-7497 or email to [email protected].

Find the hidden picture

Monday — Thursday: 9 a.m. — 8 p.m.Friday & Saturday: 9 a.m. — 5 p.m.

Sunday: 2 — 6 p.m.

R.T. Jones Memorial Library116 Brown Industrial Parkway — (770) 479-3090

Woodstock Public Library7735 Main Street — (770) 926-5859

Sequoyah Regional Library System

www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org

We stumped you last month! There were no winners for our hidden picture or trivia contest. Good Luck in January!


678-255-1000Acworth/Hiram


What’s Bugging You This Winter?

Georgia will likely experience a warmer-than-normal and drier-than-normal winter and early spring, according to David Stooksbury, state climatologist at The University of Georgia. If this long-term forecast holds true, then Punxsutawney Phil shouldn’t see his shadow on Groundhog Day this year and mosquitoes will likely return with a vengeance.

Whenever we have unusually warm, dry winter days, we also often see some interesting bugs come out in January and late winter.

During those mild, winter days County Extension offices often receive a number of calls and emails from clients who have found tiny flea-like insects by the thousands covering their driveways, sidewalks, or their carports. At first glance, many people assume the colored mass is a mold or fungal growth. But, when they look more closely, they see there are actually thousands upon thousands of tiny (almost alien-like) moving insects. Although the appearance of so many insects can be unnerving, they are harmless. The culprits are strange little creatures called Springtails.

Springtails are normally less than 1/16th inch in length. They are wingless and have very limited vision. Their color can range from yellow to almost purple to green or gray. There are actually about 700 species of Springtails in North America. In northern regions, they can appear on the surface of old snow banks and are known by the common name “Snow Fleas.” However, this name is misleading since these aren’t really fleas and they don’t actually bite.

The word “Springtails” sounds like the title of some new Olympic gymnastics event. In fact, these insects are pretty good gymnasts in their own right. They have a specialized structure called a furcula on their abdomen that acts like a tiny spring or catapult. When the furcula is released, the insect jumps into the air traveling a distance of 3 to 4 inches (up to 100 times their body length)!

Because of their small size, Springtails can quickly dry out, which is why you will usually find them in moist environments. Damp basements, pond edges, and areas of moist leaf litter or mulch are especially attractive to Springtails. When ideal moisture and temperature conditions are met, Springtail populations may skyrocket. In fact, up to 50,000 Springtails can inhabit one cubic foot of topsoil.

These huge numbers can sometimes be found clustering together on rocks, sidewalks, or driveways. They can also

be found covering the lower portions of garage doors or house foundations. Springtails feed primarily on dead or decaying vegetation. Other food items include fungi, pollen, algae, and lichens. Springtails help to decompose organic matter and release nutrients back into the soil. For that reason, they are generally considered beneficial and indicators of good soil health.

Of course, if you have a wave of Springtails inhabiting your garage they might not seem as beneficial. They seek out these moist locations when their usual habitat becomes uncomfortably dry. When they are found on sidewalks, garage doors, and similar areas, simply wash them off with a water hose. The water will disperse the insects and provide moist conditions in the surrounding soil for them to inhabit. If Springtails move indoors, you can simply vacuum or sweep them up. Insecticides are not necessary and do not provide long-term control. Eliminating excess moisture in the home is the best long-term solution.

Fortunately, most Springtail infestations last only a few days until rainfall or a change in temperature disperses them. By the time you read this, the conditions for a Springtail invasion will probably have passed. Springtails may seem like an alien encounter from another planet, but are just another fascinating part of our natural world.

Paul Pugliese is the Agriculture & Natural Resources Extension Agent for Cherokee County Cooperative Extension, a partnership of The University of Georgia, The U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Cherokee County. (770) 479-0418. For more information and free publications, visit our local website at www.ugaextension.com/cherokee.

by Paul J. Pugliese

Extension Solutions for Homes and Gardens

P.O. Box 4998 3605 Mariett a Hwy, Canton, GA 30114

www.CherokeeChamber.com

770-345-0400

Ribbon Cutt ings

Buckhead Massage Company310 Paper Trail Way

Canton (404) 495-0751Massage Th erapy

Pinnacle Orthopaedics1505 Stone Bridge Parkway

Woodstock (404) 713-9817Physicians/Orthopaedic Surgeons

Canton Marketplace Dentistry1810 Cumming Highway, Suite 900

Canton (678) 880-0087Dentists

Georgia Pain Treatment Centers551 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 100

Canton (770) 345-2002Physical Th erapy Clinic

Wells Fargo — Riverstone Parkway1413 Riverstone ParkwayCanton (770) 720-8743

Banks

Towne Lake Diner2990 Eagle Drive

Woodstock (770) 675-3390Restaurant

Business Aft er HoursSponsored by Th e Lodge at BridgeMillTuesday, January 11 4:30 — 6 p.m.Location: 10451 Bells Ferry RoadCanton, GA 30114

Th ere is no charge to att end.

RSVP deadline is 5 p.m. on January 7.

La Chic Boutique2990 Eagle Drive, Suite 108

Woodstock (678) 402-5788Retail Formal Wear

Technical Resource Solutions, LLC250 East Main Street, Suite 103S

Canton (678) 928-9491Computer Consulting & Service



Wisdom in Life’s Rhythm

by Pastor Jamey Prickett

Wisdom is the art of living skillfully in whatever actual situation we find ourselves. It is gaining the necessary skills at handling life. It is the biblical term for heaven on earth in everyday living. Sometimes we try to hide our lack of wisdom. We try to make ourselves out to be wiser than we really are. It reminds me of the story of the man who bought a sailboat. His wife was nervous because he had no experience in sailing. But he knew he could handle it and so for weeks he practiced in the harbor before taking it out to sea. Finally, he talked his nervous wife into going on the boat with him. Gingerly she stepped aboard. Out into the harbor they headed and he tried to put her at ease. He said, “Honey, look, I practiced enough in this harbor to know where every rock, every reef, every sand bar is.” At that very moment a huge hidden rock beneath the surface made a large crunching sound from stern to stern. “There,” he said with a sheepish grin, “is one of them going by now.” Wisdom is recognizing our weakness and trusting in the guidance of seasoned travelers.

Much of our weakness in living comes from the fact that we have the habit of skipping through the corridors of life like a child in a candy store, glancing at everything that passes but never stopping to savor the delicacies of life. Wisdom is pausing to learn the true value of the world around us. In a world of instantaneous response that is difficult. The wisdom writer tells the child if you will “seek it like silver, and search for it as for hidden treasures – then you will understand the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 2:4, 5). There is wisdom in viewing life as a journey, a passage, a trip to be taken. So many people see life only as the present necessary to get to the future. However, much is to be discovered today. Wisdom grows out of living for the moment. Seek out all that you can get from life today. Allow yourself to be held captive by the sun’s rays. Be swept away by the wonder of today’s color. Be mesmerized by the flowing of nature’s streams. Be held in awe of God’s mighty handy work. Allow yourself to be taken by the beauty of God’s creation. The wisdom of the biblical writers came out of the natural world. They rooted their knowledge about God in the wisdom gained through the study of creation and human nature. These men and women studied God’s creation; they meditated on the ebb and flow of life; they witnessed the change that took place and concluded that life has a certain rhythm. If you want to be blessed you must live in that rhythm. My prayer is that you find that rhythm in the New Year and be blessed.

Jamey Prickett is the Senior Pastor of Liberty Hill Church. To contact Pastor Jamey, please call (678) 493-8920 or email [email protected]://servantontheway.blogspot.com/

Is There Any H.O.P.E. in the Future?by State Representative Calvin Hill

The advent of the Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally (H.O.P.E.) scholarship program in the 1990s thrilled many in the educational field with the possibilities of how this new found money might be spent. Although Governor Zell Miller said, “I want to tie it into education,” the new Georgia Lottery had little control on spending.

Rather than spent on direct education, it soon was gutted to erect elegant buildings for Universities. Many school systems jumped on the technology bandwagons buying millions of dollars of computer and satellite systems that they did not know how to use. Much of that was soon headed for the storage rooms and then onto the junk pile.

A few years ago, we were finally able to put a Constitutional cap on this abuse and ensure that it would be used for Pre-K and Higher Education needs. Even with that, we see only a minor increase in lottery revenues and a spectacular rise in expenditures. This differential is so dramatic that the $1 Billion reserve of 2009 will be exhausted by next year —2012 — if we do not do something drastic this Legislative year!

So, what can be done?

REDUCE THE SPENDING – N0W

But where? The options being considered are varied and many.1. No HOPE funds to be used for any remedial classes

at Colleges and Universities. Students pay for these themselves.

2. Increase the G.P.A. requirement for qualification.3. Limit the total dollar amount for any one student,

therefore taking away the ability of the University System to raise tuition revenues on the back of the Lottery and HOPE system.

4. Re-institute the revenue cap on the family of the student.5. Return Pre-K to “At Risk Children” only.6. Make Pre-K payable on a sliding income scale, similar to

the way it started out. 7. Reduce or eliminate coverage for fees, books etc.8. Make students (and financially responsible family) repay

HOPE for expenditures if student does not maintain Scholarship through first year.

Please let me know if you have any other ideas for me to pass along to the Committee. Contact me at [email protected] or call (404) 656-0129.



Education in America

Chip Rogers is the State Senator for District 21. You can call him at (404) 463-1378 or fax him at (404) 657-9887. You also can e-mail Chip at [email protected]. Chip also serves on the AroundAbout — West Canton Community Board.

by State Senator Chip Rogers

The literacy scale rankings for the United States show us 27th in math, 22nd in science and “dead last” 32nd in reading among the top 32 industrialized nations according to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) 2009 Report.

According to the National Assessment of Economic Progress, one-third of American 4th graders

and one-quarter of 8th graders are functionally illiterate.

Spending on education is not the problem. According to the U.S. Department of Education, K-12 public education spending more than doubled from $221 billion in 1993 to $489 billion in 2007. Depending on which source you consider, the U.S. spending per student ranks somewhere between first through fourth among all nations. To make matters worse, our nation is $13.8 trillion in debt and competing in a truly global innovation economy where technology is king. Our competitors certainly understand the importance of producing educated students in a technology driven economy. As of 2004, the United States was producing about 70,000 engineers per year while China graduated 600,000 per year and India 400,000.

Folks, it’s time for a wake-up call!

The United States as we know it will not exist in 30 years if we do not radically change education. Yes, the United States will still be here, but we will have become economic slaves to our debt-holders while our children will live in a nation with little opportunity and far less freedom. As Americans, we have one major responsibility: to leave this nation better than what we were given. On this most important task, we stand at the brink of failure.

So what do we do? How about a dramatic change in the way we educate children with the national goal of graduating 200,000 engineers and scientists every year by 2020? President Roosevelt challenged Americans to win a world war, and we did. President Kennedy challenged Americans to place a man on the moon, and we did. We have risen time and again to meet the challenges facing our nation. However, this challenge may require our greatest effort yet.

First, let’s recognize where we are in education. Our current system was built in the 1920s to meet the demands of the emerging industrialized workplace where producing goods in a factory was the primary purpose. All students were to be educated to similar standards and the resulting high school graduates almost identical in their skills. Now some 90 years later, while most everything else has changed by quantum leaps, education has progressed only ever so slightly.

Think about what we do. We take children based on their

mailing address and send them to a brick and mortar building we call school. We divide the kids into groups of about 25 or more per class, based upon their age, and place them in a room. We then ask a teacher to take all those kids from point A to point B on the knowledge scale during the next 180 days, exactly. If our intent was to produce factory workers, this method would still be sufficient. Unfortunately this doesn’t work in a 21st century global economy.

The average American classroom is filled with students from varied economic, social, and family structure backgrounds. Understandably, each student has different learning interests and abilities. Asking a teacher to move each student from exactly point A to exactly point B is nearly impossible when we consider no two students are starting from the same place or have the ability to move at the same pace. Simply put, teachers need tools to reach every student on an individual basis. This can only happen with the transformation to digital learning. If we believe every student can learn, and I do, we soon realize this method of individual learning is perhaps the only chance we have to put America back on top in education.

Embracing a transformation to digital learning will allow teachers to do what they do best, mentoring and coaching to the individual needs of each student. Governors Jeb Bush (R-FL) and Bob Wise (D-WV) recently brought together 100 national leaders from education, technology, and government to help create a set of standards for beginning this transformation to digital learning. I was honored to be chosen as one of a handful of lawmakers to take part in the Digital Learning Council.

The premise is that personalizing education for each child, through the use of digital learning, allows students to learn at their own pace and style. The motto of the Florida Virtual School, America’s largest virtual school serving more than 200,000 students, captures the essence of individual student centered learning “any time, any place, any path, any pace.” Whether students are from an inner city or the most remote community in America, they deserve access to high quality and rigorous courses in every subject. With digital learning, this standard of access is possible. A high-achieving high school junior in downtown Chicago can learn physics from an M.I.T. professor in Boston, while the teacher of incoming first-graders in New Orleans can create individual lesson plans to make sure every student is reading within eight weeks.

Regardless of zip code, race, gender, socio-economic background, or special needs, digital learning can become the great equalizer. It can truly lift all boats and in doing so transform American education. The time is now and the cost of inaction could be catastrophic.


United States Government:

President Barack Obama (D) (202) 456-1414 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue fax: (202) 456-2461 Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Senate Russell Courtyard-2 GA: (770) 763-9090 Washington, D.C. 20510 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov

Senator Johnny Isakson (R) (202) 224-3643 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: (770) 661-0999 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 fax: (770) 661-0768 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov

Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 (202) 225-4501 P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 GA: (770) 565-4990 Website: http://tom.house.gov fax: (770) 565-7570

Rep. John Linder (R), District 7 (202) 225-4272 90 North Street, Suite 360 GA: (770) 232-3005 Canton, GA 30114-2724 fax: (770) 232-2909 Website: www.linder.house.gov

State Government:

Governor Sonny Perdue (R) (404) 656-1776 203 State Capitol fax: (404) 657-7332 Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.ga.gov.com

State Senator Jack Murphy (R) (D-27) (770) 887-1960 304-B Coverdell Legislative Bldg. fax: (770) 205-0602 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Calvin Hill (R) (D-21) local: (678) 493-7257 511 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. business: (404) 656-0129 Atlanta, GA 30334 fax: (770) 345-2394 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Sean Jerguson (R) (D-22) (404) 656-0287 607 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Mark Hamilton (R) (D-23) Email: [email protected]

Cherokee County Courts:

Superior Court: Chief Judge Frank C. Mills, III (678) 493-6270 Judge N. Jackson Harris (678) 493-6260 Judge Ellen McElyea (678) 493-6240

State Court: Chief Judge Clyde J. Gober, Jr. (678) 493-6480 Judge W. Alan Jordan (678) 493-6490

Juvenile/Family Court: Judge John B. Sumner (678) 493-6250 Judge Tony Baker (678) 493-6280

Magistrate Court: Chief Judge James Drane III (678) 493-6431

Probate Court: Judge Keith Wood (678) 493-6160

Clerk of the Court: Patty Baker (678) 493-6511

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners www.cherokeega.com 90 North Street, Suite 310 (678) 493-6000 Canton, GA 30114 fax: (678) 493-6001 Commissioners: Buzz Ahrens (R), Chairperson e-mail: [email protected]

Harry Johnston (R), Post 1 e-mail: [email protected]

Jim Hubbard (R), Post 2 e-mail: [email protected]

Karen Bosch (R), Post 3 e-mail: [email protected]

Jason A. Nelms (R), Post 4 e-mail: [email protected]

Cherokee County Board of Education:

Stephen Bentley (R), Post 1 (Vice Chair) (770) 704-4398, x4374 e-mail: [email protected]

Mike Chapman (R), Post 2 (Chair) (770) 704-4398, x4372 e-mail: [email protected]

Gary Puckett (R), Post 3 (770) 928-3315 e-mail: [email protected]

Janet Read (R), Post 4 (770) 516-1444 e-mail: [email protected]

Rick Steiner (R), Post 5 (770) 704-4398, x4370 e-mail: [email protected]

Debi Radcliff (R), Post 6 (770) 592-7864 e-mail: [email protected]

Kim Cochran (R), Post 7

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby (404) 362-1600 90 North Street, Suite 310 Canton, GA 30114

Cherokee County School System Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo (770) 479-1871 P.O. Box 769 fax: (770) 479-1236 110 Academy St. Canton, GA 30114 Website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R) (678) 493-4100 498 Chattin Drive fax: (678) 493-4228 Canton, GA 30115 Website: www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner David Fields (R) (678) 493-6400 100 North St. fax: (678) 493-6420 Canton, GA 30114 e-mail: [email protected]

City of Canton www.canton-georgia.com (770) 704-1500 Mayor Gene Hobgood

City of Waleska www.cityofwaleska.com (770) 479-2912 Mayor Doris Ann Jones

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Civic Organizations

Recreation & Hobbies

Charitable & Support Organizations

American Business Women’s Association: (678) 493-3618, www.abwa.orgCanton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club: (770) 345-1750Cherokee Area Business Connection: (770) 345-8687Cherokee Business & Professional Women: (770) 345-1751Cherokee Toastmasters: (770) 712-4077 www.CherokeeToastmasters.comN.E.W. Networking Entrepreneurail Women: (678) 595-0344PowerCore: (404) 572-1278Towne Lake Business Association: (770) 720-6558, www.tlba.orgWoodstock Buisness Networking Group: (770) 591-7101

AA Meetings: Canton First United Methodist: (770) 479-6961 Canton Chapter: (770) 479-5460Adoptees and Birthmothers Support: (770) 693-1907Adoption/Infertility Support Group: (678) 445-3131Alzheimer/Dementia Support Group: (770) 926-0119American Heart Assoc. — Cherokee Division: (678) 385-2013Arts Alliance of Georgia: (678) 754-8482Bethany Place: (770) 479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.orgBreast Cancer Support Group, Drop-In: (404) 843-1880Canton Al-Anon: (770) 516-3502CASA for Children, Inc.: Deidre Hollands, (770) 345-3274 www.casacherokee.orgCherokee Autism Support Group: Heidi — [email protected] or Renee — [email protected] Child Advocacy Council: (770) 592-9779 www.cherokeechildadvocates.orgCherokee Co. Aspergers Syndrome Parents Support Group: (678) 616-6741 www.CCAspies.orgCherokee Co. Family Child Care Assoc.: Brenda Bowen, (770) 926-8055Cherokee Co. Foster & Adoptive Parent Association of GA: (770) 378-0759 www.fosteroradopt.orgCherokee Co. Habitat for Humanity: (770) 345-1879Cherokee Co. Senior Services: (770) 345-5312Cherokee Co. Service League: (770) 704-5991Cherokee Co. Special Olympics: (770) 517-7101Cherokee County Family Violence Center: (770) 479-1804Battered Women Hotline: (770) 479-1703 In Spanish, (770) 720-7050

Cherokee FOCUS: (770) 345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.orgDrug Free Cherokee: Stacy Bailey, (770) 345-5483 www.drugfreecherokee.orgEmotions Anonymous: Tonya M. (678) 648-9953Grace to the Nations: (404) 819-5520 www.gracetothenations.comHabitat for Humanity North Central GA: (770) 345-1879, www.habitatncg.orgHaiti Cheri Harvest Life Ministries: (800) 989-4248, [email protected] Center (hope for unplanned pregnancies): (770) 924-0864 www.hopectr.comHope Center — Baby & More Thrift Store: www.babyandmorethriftstore.comHospice Advantage: (770) 218-1997 www.hospiceadvantage.comiCOR (helping orphans): (404) 992-8155 www.iCORorphans.comLegacy Ministries International: (770) 924-0826 Meals-on-Wheels: (770) 345-7440Miracle Mothers: www.miraclemothers.orgMOMS Club of Canton (serving Canton, Ball Ground, Waleska and Holly Springs): West: http://momsclubofcantonwest.webs.com MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers: (770) 479-4140http://groups.yahoo.com/group/waleskamopsMUST Ministries: (770) 479-5397 www.mustministries.orgNarcotics Anonymous: (770) 720-4032National Alliance for Mental Illness Family Support Group: (404) 394-1229, www.nami.orgNorth Georgia Angel House, Inc.: www.angelhousega.comNorthside Hospital Cherokee Auxiliary: (770) 720-9559Papa’s Pantry: (770) 591-4730 www.papaspantry.orgSafe Kids of Georgia in Cherokee County: (678) 493-4343, www.cherokeesafekids.orgSalvation Army: 121 Waleska St. (770) 720-4316Volunteer Aging Council: (770) 345-7515Young Peoples AA Meeting: (770) 479-2502

BridgeMill-Sixes Service League: www.bssl.org

Canton Lions Club: (678) 224-7878

www.lionsofcanton.org

Canton Noon Day Optimists: (678) 454-2370

Canton Optimist Club: www.cantonoptimist.com

Canton Rotary Club: (770) 479-2101

Cherokee County Historical Society: (770) 345-3288, www.rockbarn.org

Optimist Club of Laurel Canyon: (678) 493-9135

Pilot Club of Cherokee County: Lynda Goodwin at (770) 393-1766

[email protected]

Rotary Club of Cherokee County: (678) 297-0154, [email protected]

Rotary Club of Towne Lake: (770) 926-0105

Sons of the American Revolution:

Cherokee Chapter, (770) 410-0015

[email protected]

The Trail of Tears Association: (770) 704-6338

www.nationaltota.org

United Daughters of the Confederacy, The Helen Plane Chapter 711: [email protected]

Cherokee Co. Board of Elections & Registrations: (770) 479-0407

Cherokee County Democratic Party: (770) 345-3489, www.CherokeeDems.com

Cherokee Co. Municipal Planning Commission: (678) 493-6101

Cherokee County Republican Party: (770) 592-6545, www.cherokeecountygop.com

Cherokee County Repulican Women’s Club: (678) 520-2236, www.CCRWCGA.com

Cherokee County School Board: (770) 479-1871

Cherokee County Young Republicans: (770) 926-9317, [email protected]

Cherokee/Pickens Libertarian Party: (770) 345-4678, www.lpgeorgia.com/cherokee

Canton Moose Family Center (Bingo): (770) 479-8300

Christian Authors Guild: (770) 928-6592

[email protected]

Cherokee Amateur Radio Society: (770) 928-8590, www.cherokee-ares.org/ccars

Cherokee Amateur Radio Emergency Services (SKYWARN Storm Spotters): (770) 928-8590

www.cherokee-ares.org

Cherokee Community Chorale: (770) 479-4114

www.cherokeecommunitychorale.org

Cherokee County Master Gardeners: (770) 479-0418

Cherokee County Saddle Club: (770) 757-2282

www.cherokeesaddleclub.com

Cherokee Crazy Quilters: (770) 345-6932

[email protected]

Cherokee Fencing Club: Andy McCann, (678) 494-9750

www.cherokeefencingclub.com

Cherokee Hiking Club: (770) 235-3655

[email protected]

Cherokee Music Teachers Association: (770) 720-3987, www.cherokeemta.org

Cherokee New Horizons Band (CNHB): (770) 479-4917, [email protected]

Cherokee Photography Club: www.cherokeephotographyclub.com

Cherokee Running Club: (770) 928-4239

(770) 926-8513

Cherokee Senior Softball Association: www.cssasoftball.com

Crossfit Workout of the Day Club: www.crossfitgarage.com

The Funk Heritage Center Book Club: (770) 720-5969

Sewrifics, American Sewing Guild: (678) 493-3976

Southern O Scalers: Dan Mason, (770) 337-5139

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ONEmergency — 911 AroundAbout West Canton Magazine — (770) 720-7497

Cherokee County Government: www.cherokeega.com Business Licenses (678) 493-6200 Commissioners (678) 493-6000 Clerk of Courts (678) 493-6511 Economic Development (770) 345-0600 Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) (678) 493-6077 Environmental Health (770) 479-0444 Extension Office (770) 479-0418 Jury Phone (770) 479-9011 Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) (770) 479-1953 Planning & Zoning (678) 493-6101 Senior Services (770) 345-2675 Tax Assessors/Evaluation (678) 493-6120 Taxes: License Plates/Tags, Property Tax (678) 493-6400 Woodstock Office (770) 924-4099 Renewals Online https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/ Voter Registration (770) 479-0407

Children and Family: Anna Crawford Children’s Center (770) 592-9779 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club (770) 720-7712 Cherokee Family Violence Center (770) 479-1804 Cherokee Focus (770) 345-5483 Child Support Enforcement (770) 720-3581 Department of Family & Children Services (770) 720-3610 Hope Center (770) 924-0864 MUST Cherokee Ministries (770) 479-5397 Papa’s Pantry (770) 591-4730

City of Canton: City Hall (770) 704-1500 Fire Department (770) 479-7287 Police Information (770) 720-4883

Driver’s Licenses www.dds.ga.gov (404) 657-9300

Georgia State Patrol (770) 720-6607

Health Department (770) 345-7371

Hospitals: Kennestone Hospital (770) 793-5000 Northside Hospital — Cherokee (770) 720-5100

Hotlines — 24 Hour Help lines: Battered Women Hotline (770) 479-1703 Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) (770) 345-7920 Poison Control Center (404) 616-9000 Poison Control Center (outside metro Atlanta) (800) 222-1222 Probate Court Information Line (770) 704-2610 Rite-Call (Child Medical Problems) (404) 250-KIDS Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center (770) 428-2666

Non-Emergency 911 (770) 479-3117

Parks and Recreation: Barnett Park (770) 924-7768 Boling Park (770) 720-7578 BridgeMill Athletic Club (770) 345-5500 Callahan Golf Links (770) 720-1900 Cherokee County Outdoor YMCA (770) 591-5820 Cherokee County Soccer Association (770) 704-0187 www.csaimpact.com Cherokee Recreation and Parks Authority (770) 924-7768 www.crpa.net

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Assoc.: (770) 846-4843 www.cherokeelacrosse.com G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA (770) 345-9622 North Atlanta Soccer Association: (770) 926-4175 [email protected] SCRA Park (770) 926-5672 www.scrabaseball.com Wildlife Action, Inc. (800) 753-2264

Pets: Animal Control (678) 493-6200 Animal Shelter & Pet Adoptions (770) 345-7270 www.petfinder.com/shelters/GA460.html Cherokee County Humane Society (770) 928-5115 www.cchumanesociety.org Emergency Veterinary Clinic (770) 924-3720 Lost Pet Hotline (770) 615-3333 People4Pets (770) 516-7885 www.people4pets.com Second Chance Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Post Office (Canton) www.usps.com (800) 275-8777

Recycling Center (770) 516-4195

Sheriff’s Office www.cherokeega-sheriff.org (678) 493-4100 Utilities: Amicalola EMC (706) 253-5200 www.amicalolaemc.com AT&T (888) 757-6500 www.att.com Ball Ground Water (770) 735-2123 www.cityofballground.com BellSouth (404) 780-2355 www.bellsouth.com Canton Water (770) 704-1500 www.canton-georgia.com Charter Communications (888) 438-2427 www.charter.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Authority (770) 479-1813 www.ccwsa.com Cobb EMC (770) 429-2100 www.cobbemc.com Comcast (404) 266-2278 www.comcast.com DirecTV (877) 516-6276 www.directv.com Dish Network (888) 825-2557 www.dishnetwork.com ETC Communications (706) 253-2271 www.northganow.com Gas South (866) 762-6427 www.gas-south.com Georgia Natural Gas (888) 442-7489 www.georgianaturalgas.com Georgia Power (888) 660-5890 www.southernco.com/gapower Scana Energy (877) 467-2262 www.scana.com Waleska Water (770) 479-2912 Windstream (866) 971-WIND www.windstream.com

Urgent Care Facilities:M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine (770) 720-7000Northside Cherokee Urgent Care (678) 426-5450Wellstar Urgent Care (678) 494-2500

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First Baptist Canton1 Mission Point and Creekview H.S.Sunday Services: 9:05, 10:30 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.(770) 479-5538, www.fbccanton.orgVisit website or call for details for each location

First Baptist Holly Springs2632 Holly Springs Pkwy, (770) 345-5349Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m.www.fbchollysprings.com

First Baptist Church of Woodstock11905 Hwy 92, Woodstock, (770) 926-4428Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.fbcw.org

Heritage Baptist Fellowship3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, (770) 479-9415Sunday Service: 11 a.m.www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com

Hickory Log Missionary Baptist179 Belletta Drive, (770) 479-3347Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Hopewell Baptist Church75 Ridge Road, (770) 345-5723Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m., 6 p.m.www.hopewellbaptist.com

Mount Zion Baptist Church4096 East Cherokee Drive, (770) 479-3324Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m., 6:30 p.m.www.mtzb.org

New Victoria Baptist Church6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-8448Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:50 a.m.www.newvicbaptist.org

Oakdale Baptist100 Oakdale Road, (770) 479-9060Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Sardis Baptist392 Sardis Circle, (770) 345-6718Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Shoal Creek Baptist4967 Fincher Road, (770) 720-0195Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 6 p.m.

Sutallee Baptist 895 Knox Bridge Highway, (770) 479-0101Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.mwww.sutalleebaptistchurch.com

Toonigh Baptist Church4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon, (770) 928-2491Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Victory Baptist Church346 Lucky Street, (770) 345-1133Sunday Services: 11 a.m. & 7 p.m.

Waleska First Baptist10657 Fincher Road, (770) 479-1024Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m.www.waleskafirstbaptist.org

Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church6488 Hickory Flat Hwy., (404) 395-5003 Meeting at All Points Community ChurchSaturday Service: 5:30 p.m.www.ctrcec.com

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta(770) 928-7916 or cell (770) 490-7234Sunday Eucharist Service: 10:30 a.m.www.annunciationepiscopal.org

Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church2795 Ridge Road, (770) 345-6722Sunday Eucharist Services: 8, 9 & 11 a.m.www.stclementscanton.org

Chabad Jewish Center1635 Old Hwy 41 NW, Suites 112-265, KennesawIntroductory Service: 1st Shabbat of each month at 11 a.m.Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat of each month at 10:30 a.m.(678) 460-7702, www.Jewishwestcobb.com

Tikvah I’ Chaim “Hope for Life” Messianic Jewish Fellowship132 North Medical Parkway, (678) 936-4125Saturday Shabbat Service: 10 a.m.www.tlchaim.com

Celebration of Grace Lutheran Church2260 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite 120Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.(770) 503-5050, www.celebrationofgrace.org

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock, (770) 924-7286 Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.goodshepherdwoodstock.org

Timothy Lutheran Church (LC-MS)556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 928-2812Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m.Tlcwoodstock.ctsmemberconnect.net

Canton First United Methodist Church930 Lower Scott Mill Road, (770) 479-2502Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:45, & 11 a.m.www.cantonfirstumc.org

City on a Hill: A United Methodist ChurchWorships at Johnson Elementary SchoolSunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m.(404) 862-7850, www.coahumc.org

Field’s Chapel United Methodist Church1331 Fields Chapel Road, (770) 479-6030Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.fieldschapel.org

Hillside United Methodist Church4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Traditional Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m.Contemporary Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m.(770) 924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org

Liberty Hill Church141 Railroad Street, (678) 493-8920Sunday Service: 11 a.m.www.libertyhillumc.org

Orange United Methodist Church220 Orange Church Circle, (770) 886-9662Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11 a.m.www.orangeumc.org

Sixes United Methodist Church8385 Bells Ferry Road, (770) 345-7644Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m.www.sixesumc.org

Union Hill United Methodist Church2000 A.J. Land Road, (678) 297-0550Sunday Service: 11 a.m.www.unionhillumc.org

Waleska United Methodist Church7340 Reinhardt College ParkwaySunday Service: 10:30 a.m. (710) 479-4428, www.waleskaumc.org

St. Elizabeth Orthodox ChurchServices at Woodstock Funeral Home Chapel8855 Main St., (770) 485-0504 Sunday Divine Liturgy 10 a.m.www.stelizabethga.org

Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA1498 Johnson Brady Road, (770) 704-9594Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.www.cherokee-pca.org

Faith Presbyterian Church USA3655 Reinhardt College ParkwaySunday Service: 10:30 a.m.(770) 479-6193, www.faithpc.us

Grace Church, PCA1160 Butterworth Road, (770) 265-5811Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.gracecanton.org

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Heritage Presbyterian Church5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth, (770) 926-3558 Sunday Services: 9 & 11:10 a.m. www.heritagepres.com

Sixes Presbyterian Church2335 Sixes Road, (770) 485-1975Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.sixeschurch.org

Woodstock Presbyterian Church345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-0074 Traditional Worship Service: 11 a.m.

Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church2941 Sam Nelson Road, (770) 479-8923Sunday Masses: 8 & 10:30 a.m.Sunday Spanish Mass: 5:30 p.m.www.lasalettecanton.com

St. Michael the Archangel490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 516-0009Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:30 p.m.Sunday Masses: 7:30, 9 & 11 a.m., 12:45 & 5:30 p.m.Sunday Spanish Mass: 2:30 p.m.www.stmichaelthearchangelwoodstock.catholicweb.com

Allen Temple, AME Church232 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-6348 Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m., Nursery availablewww.allentempleame.org

Bells Ferry Church of God6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 592-2956Sunday Services: 11 a.m.www.bellsferry.com

BridgePointe Church Meeting at Woodstock Middle/High School Sunday Services: 9 & 11 a.m.(770) 517-2977, www.bridgepointechurch.org

C3 Church94 North Street, Cherokee Arts CenterSunday Service: 10 a.m.(404) 317-0345, www.c3church.tv

Christian Praise Center1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.christianpraisecenter.com

Canton Adventist Church411 Scott Mill Road, (678) 880-0106Saturday Worship: 10 a.m.www.cantonfamiles.org

Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist101 Rope Mill Road, (770) 591-7304Saturday Worship: 11:00 a.m.http://cherokee.netadvent.org

Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta6464 Highway 92, Acworth, (770) 924-9161Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.ctkatlanta.com

Christian Praise Center1358 Sixes Road, (770) 924-7532www.christianpraisecenter.com

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day SaintsAllatoona Ward, (770) 516-5918 Canton Ward, (770) 479-1522Woodstock Ward, (770) 928-5641

Church of the Messiah415 Charles Cox Drive, (770) 479-5280Sunday Service: 10 a.m.www.churchofthemessiah.net

Covenant Christian CenterServices held at their Worship Annex330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Blvd., CantonSundays: 10 a.m.(770) 345-0307, www.CityOfCovenant.org

Dayspring Church6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock, (770) 516-5733Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.dayspring-online.com

Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation2799 Holly Springs Road, Marietta, (770) 578-1533Sunday Services: 10 a.m.www.emersonuu.org

Momentum Church110 Londonderry Court, WoodstockSunday Service: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.(678) 384-4919, www.MomentumChurch.tv

Faith Community Church659 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock, (770) 516-1996Sunday Worship: 8 & 10:30 a.m.www.faithcommunitychurch.org

Faith Family Church5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth, (770) 926-4560Sunday Service: 10 a.m.www.faithagchurch.com

Greater Bethel Community Church211 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 592-9900Sunday Service: 11 a.m.

Life Changers Church International2499 Palm Street, Suite 100, (678) 384-4307Sunday Service: 11 a.m.www.jamesbryantministries.org

Life Bible Church124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, (770) 217-7494Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.lifebiblechurch.com

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, (770) 345-2660Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.www.newlifecanton.com

Northern Hills Church of Christ4563 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton, (404) 579-0885Sunday Service 10 a.m.

The Pointe(404) 557-9640, www.myfriendschurch.comVisit website or call for information.

Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock, (770) 928-2795Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.prayerandpraise.org

The Quest Church411 Scott Mill Road, Canton, (678) 687-8670Sunday Service: 11 a.m. www.thequestcanton.com

Resurrection Anglican Church231 Arnold Mill Road, (770) 591-0040Sunday Service: 8:30 & 10:45 a.mwww.resurrectionwoodstock.org

The RiverMeets at Liberty Elementary School Sunday Service: 10 a.m. www.riveratlanta.org

Towne Lake Community Church132 N. Medical Pkwy, Woodstock, (678) 445-8766Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.tlcchurch.com

Watermarke ChurchMeeting at American Heritage Academy2126 Sixes Road, Canton (770) 928-8235Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.www.watermarkechurch.com

Woodstock Christian Church7700 Highway 92, Woodstock, (770) 926-8238Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.www.woodstockchristian.org

Woodstock Church of Christ219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 926-8838Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.Servico En Espanol Domingo: 10:30 a.m.Ministro: Rafael Uzcategu,i (770) 926-8271 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, (770) 924-4499Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m. & 6 p.m. www.woodstocknazarene.com

Woodstock Community Church8534 Main Street, Woodstock, (770) 926-8990Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.www.wcchurch.org

Waleska Church of God of Prophecy127 Dry Pond Lane, (770) 214-8343Sunday Service: 11 a.m & 5 p.m.

Roman Catholic

Other Churches

70 AroundAbout—WestCAnton jAnuAry2011

to family members and probe into what health conditions may run in kin. Recently a Bipolar patient of mine wrote letters to all cousins to discretely explore whether or not mood disorder ran in the family. The response was unbelievable. All it took was a courageous person to start the dialogue. And finally, don’t be in the dark yourself. If you think that you have changed mentally or physically, take initiative to discover why. It may be a more tortuous and scary road to travel, but almost always ends up with some light at the end of the tunnel.

Never Judge a Book by Its Cover

continuedfrompage 26

If you checked off all of these items already, way to go. You are among the elite home audio do-it-yourselfers. I would venture to say that only 10 percent of people make use of all of these cheap or sometimes free items. If you were unsuccessful at any of these items, give me a call and I’ll help.

TV Entertainment


Almost every homeowner I visit complains about the comfort in their bonus room or the room over their garage in a two story home. This discomfort is caused by lack of airflow to overcome the heat loss or heat gain in this special room, which is over unconditioned space and needs more air flow to make this room comfortable. I will never understand why builders ignore this room and provide a space that in many cases cannot be used in peak weather conditions. This problem is easily corrected when replacing your comfort system and should not be overlooked and if it is, the problem will still be there after the new system is installed.

One should never purchase a new HVAC system without having a competent contractor inspect the duct system to assure you that your new heating and cooling system will actually deliver the promise of comfort and efficiency that you should demand from this purchase.

Don’t Forget the Ducts


Try this at home for delicious family memories. You will be amazed how easy it is to create the Best Pizza in America. Don’t plan on any dessert because you will not have room. Make a New Year’s resolution now to create the time for this event. We all have to eat anyway, so make it delicious, easy, fun and memorable. If this is not heaven, it is at least closer.

Pizza — Not Just Food . . .


don’t know the answer unless you ask. Sometimes you simply haven’t asked the right person to begin with.

Call and ask. We can ascertain your situation and give you an honest answer as to how we can best help. Our team is all about making dreams come true, all about making it happen.

This is the year to capture opportunities, bridle possibilities and take charge of your own financial fortitude. Find solid professionals and make it happen.

Remember: NOTHING worth having is ever easy. Time to get busy!

3, 2, 1 . . . Happy New Year


To reach Denise to book a show, join her team, or order, please call (770) 843-6622 or email at [email protected]. To view the great products, visit www.mythirtyone.com/40879.

Suzanne Speaks: 31 Days . . .


greatest things in life are not things. They keep me humble, laughing and often confused. But they also remind me why I ran for office. For me personally, it is all about the kids of the Cherokee County School District. Thank you for the opportunity to serve!

School Board News


Pack your bags and your dog’s bags anytime you travel this year. You can never be over-prepared for your pet’s travel. Be aware of safety concerns for you and your pet. Avoid the unexpected by knowing what to expect before you leave the house.

Have a blessed New Year!

Holiday Road


A combination of these or other ideas will likely be put into place this year to save the program from its own success. We must get expenses under control to leave some HOPE for our future students!

Is There Any H.O.P.E. in the Future?


CLASSIFIEDSCLASSIFIEDS

The Junk Man — U-Call, I Haul. Please call (678) 983-3975.

Save Children — Stop addiction and death to alcohol. Georgia Prohibition Membership: $20.00. (770) 479-1322.

SERVICES

Classifieds Work!You’re Reading Them . . . Aren’t You?

For a copy of the classified form, please call us at (770) 720-7497 or

visit our website at www.aroundaboutwestcanton.com.

Deadlines are the 12th! Hurry to get your Classified in today!


ADVERTISERADVERTISERSupport the Advertisers that support your Community

IndexAutomotive Services

BridgeMill Auto Inside Front

Banking/Financial Services

Quick Accounting Solutions Inside FrontJeffrey Jackson CPA 5J. Thompson Ross Investments 29Edward Jones Financial 43First Cherokee State Bank 56Cherokee Bank Back Cover

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners

Carpet Dry Tech 15

Chiropractors

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 29

Churches

Liberty Hill United Methodist Church 52

Classifieds 71

Cleaning Services

Molly Maid 43Sisters Cleaning Service 57

Dentist/Orthodontists

Jerry Smith, P.C. 7James A. Uhlin, DDS 12Canton Pediatric Dentistry 15Cherokee Family Dental 19Cherokee Children’s Dentistry 21Fountain View Family Dentistry 23Scott Merritt, DMD 51Williams Orthodontics 57

Education/Instruction/Counseling

American Heritage Academy 19Park View Montessori 21Kennesaw State University 31Mission Point Christian Academy 47The Carpenter’s Shop 61 Christian Preschool

Health & Beauty

Azure Salon and Spa 35Jyl Craven Hair Colour Studio 53Hair Etc. 55Kreations Hair Salon 63

Home Improvement/Repair/Service

Dr. Fixit 7Bryan Plumbing Services 19Mr. Junk 35Reliable Heating & Air 39Bam Fence 46Cornelius & Sons Plumbing 63

Interior Decor & Accents/Services

Pineapple Park 35Woodstock Furniture Outlet 57

Landscaping/Landscape Services

Pike Nurseries 21Calvary Landscaping 35

Optometrist/Eyewear

Eyes On You Eyecare 3BridgeMill Eyecare 53Towne Lake Eye Associates 55Pearle Vision Inside Back

Photography

PhotoJack.net 12

Pet/Veterinarian Services & Supplies

Riverstone Animal Hospital 13BridgeMill Animal Hospital 41Savy Paws Pet Resort 57A Home Away From Home 71

Physicians & Medical Services

Children’s Pediatric Center East Main 9Northwest Oral Surgery 9Northside Hospital — Cherokee 11Internal Medicine Associates 15Cherokee Women’s Health 17Northside Pediatrics 17Progressive Audiology 17Cherokee Oral Surgery 41BridgeMill Family Medical 51Vein Center of North Georgia 59M.D. Minor Emergency & 63 Family Medicine Plastic Surgery Center of the South 71

Recreation & Fitness

Anytime Fitness Cover, 32 & 33Steps Dance Center 3HMS Golf, Inc. 13Dancentre South 55

Restaurants/Food Services

Little Caesars Pizza 1Fabiano’s Pizzeria 3China Wok 7Goin’ Coastal 61

Services/Retailers/Miscellaneous

Audio Intersection 39Delphi Global Technology 29The UPS Store at BridgeMill 5Ghost Net Inc. 5La Chic Boutique 13The Lodge at BridgeMill 27Habitat For Humanity 41Stellaris Ministries 45Pixie Vacations 46Towne Lake Arts Center 59

Insurance

Cherokee Insurance Center 59

Real Estate

Keller Williams 43

Documents

01/11 West Canton