Canton 9 13

MovingForward

The initial outpouring of well wishes, praise and blessings to myself and the Family Life Publications’ staff via email, voicemail and social networking has been overwhelming. Our friends and families have visited the offices now that we have settled in and gotten into a groove. I’ve been blessed with not only an amazing opportunity to create and produce these magazines but also a wonderful staff of talented and…well…awesome people with which to work. We’re excited about the potential of what our futures hold here at Family Life Publications Inc., or “FLiP,” as we refer to it.

“Potential” is a word I’ve been hearing a lot about lately, since starting this new publication company. When I think about the word “potential,” there are so many different forms and kinds to consider. Everyone and everything has potential. It is an inherent characteristic of simply

“being” in the physical world. It’s a vague word, and we often tend to fill in the blank with what we want the definition to be.

As someone who most often looks on the bright side, I think my favorite type is “found” potential — the kind that is nurtured by our thoughts, spirit and character. It’s in our general nature to want to improve our lives, surroundings and world. In order to make that happen, we have to look within and find what works for each of us individually to achieve our goals. When we put our faith in what is right and good, believe in ourselves, and just relax and abide in the blessings God gives us each day, everything just seems to unfold as it should. Potentially...that’s a very good thing.

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER

Jack Tuszynski jack@familylifepublications.com

EDITORIAL

Michelle Martin michelle@familylifepublications.com

ART Candice Williams candice@familylifepublications.com

Tiffany Atwood tiffany@familylifepublications.com

SALES

Janet Ponichtera janet@familylifepublications.com

Jennifer Forman jennifer@familylifepublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Polly Balint, Dr. Kellie Baxter, Gemma Beylouny, Mary Kay Buquoi, Jyl Craven, Dr. Kyle Edwards, Louise Estabrook, Catherine Groves, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Mayor Gene Hobgood, Norman Hunt, Emily Jobe, James Kilgore, Michelle Knapp, Dr. Vicki Knight-Mathis, Scott Lavelle, Dr. James E. Leake, Dr. Chris Meiners, Dr. E. Anthony Musarra, Dr. Michael Petrosky, Janet Read, Nick Roper, Suzanne Taylor

Canton Family Life magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Family Life Publications. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community-based advertising. Each month, copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the Canton area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found and other information.

Canton Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

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

september Events Calendar of

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crosscut: a Visual odyssey in PhotograPhy/art

This art exhibition will feature the art and photos of Bo Bice (“American Idol”), Lisa LaRue (Open Doors Photo Exhibition capturing eclectic views and details of historic sites related to the band The Doors), Mark Waterbury (PhotoArtStorm), and newcomer Mikel Estes (paintings, drawings, sculptures). The event is sponsored by Serge Entertainment Group and North Georgia Film and Music Professionals. A special Opening Reception will be held 6:30-8:30 p.m., September 6. Call or visit the website for gallery hours. Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244, CherokeeArts.org

10 totally deVoted marketPlace ministry

Polly Balint, founder of That Girl Marketing LLC and author of the “Totally Devoted” women’s devotional series, will lead a women’s community Bible study from her “Totally Devoted 2” devotional. This Bible study and gathering is for busy women who are hungry for truth! There is no “homework” — just weekly devotions of hope and encouragement. 9:30-11 a.m., Tuesdays, through November 19, at Canton Marketplace IHOP. ThatGirlMarketing.biz

14 beth moore simulcast

Author Beth Moore will bring her Living Proof Live Bible study to Canton via simulcast. Music for the event will be led by Dove award-winning musician Travis Cottrell. 9:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 4096 E. Cherokee Road, Canton. 770-479-3324, MTZB.org

15 First resPonders’ aPPreciation ceremony

Woodstock Church of Christ will honor Cherokee County first responders who

serve local communities. This remembrance service will provide an opportunity for the community to come together for a time of thanks, remembrance and prayer for those who make sacrifices for our safety and freedom every day. The event will include a special video to remember September 11, 2001, and a meal for all emergency workers and military in Cherokee County. 5:30 p.m., Woodstock Church of Christ, 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. 404-4216370, WoodstockChurchofChrist.org

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cherokee county Fair

Family fun at the fair, featuring livestock, shows, carnival rides, games and more. Fair Grounds in Canton, 160 McClure St.

21 Fall Plant sale

The Georgia Master Gardeners Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County’s Fall Plant Sale will feature Cannas, Sedums, Daylilies, Purple Coneflowers, Oriental Button Bush, Itea Shrub and January Jasmine Bush. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Cherokee County Co-Op Extension Office, which promotes public knowledge and appreciation of plants through seminars. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Cherokee County Senior Services Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton.

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‘the mousetraP’ Cherokee Theatre Co. presents London West End’s longest-running show! Call or visit the website for details and performance times. Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton. 770-704-0755, CantonTheatre.com

23 casa Volunteer meeting

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children and the Dept. of Family

September Story Times

week of september 3

Help is on the Way! week of september 10

What’s in a Box? week of september 17

Never Mail an Elephant week of september 24

Goin’ Nutty!

september 3, 10, 17 & 24

Family Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m., R.T. Jones

september 4, 11, 18 & 25

Lapsit Story Time, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones

september 5, 12, 18 & 26

Family Story Time, 10:30 a.m., Ball Ground Family Story Time, 10:30 a.m. & 3:30 p.m., Hickory Flat

september 7, 14, 21 & 28

Super Saturday Family Story Time, 10:30 a.m., R.T. Jones

*September 21: Spanish/English

All story times begin promptly at scheduled time; please arrive early to avoid any disruption.

Special Programs

are you a dragonFly?

September 11, 3:30 p.m., Hickory Flat

The Upper Etowah River Alliance will teach participants about the life cycle of a dragonfly using the book “Are you a Dragonfly?”

Afterward, participants will make their own colorful dragonfly. This program is appropriate for children ages 5-8. Registration is required.

Calendar of Events

continued from page 6

and Children Services (DFCS) will host an informational meeting for those interested in volunteering to help to rebuild the life of a foster child. Attendees will learn about the need for foster parents and volunteer advocates and their respective roles in the foster care system. 6 p.m., DFCS Office, 105 Lamar Haley Parkway, Canton. 770-345-3274, CASACherokee.org

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FAMILY FALLFEST HEALTH FAIR

Kinetix Health Club in Canton will host a free health fair to kick off its new Les Mills-certified group fitness classes. The event will feature Les Mills classes that morning, along with free blood pressure checks, body fat analysis, nutrition tips and other services by local health and wellness providers; live music; children’s activities; karate demonstrations; and special offers from area merchants. Call for fitness classes and times. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Kinetix Health Club, 110 Prominence Point Parkway, Suite 114, Canton. 770-720-4320, KinetixHealthClub.com

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SALVATORE CHAPAGNE IN CONCERT

Salvatore Chapagne, associate professor of singing and director of the Vocal Studies Division at Oberlin Conservatory of Music, will give a free concert at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center. His singing career started in 1998, when he was selected tenor soloist for a European tour of Leonard Bernstein’s “Songfest.” He has performed in Europe’s finest opera houses and concert halls and how won many prestigious awards and competitions. The concert is free to

the public. 3 p.m., Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. (770) 720-9167, Reinhardt.edu/fpac

October

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GOSHEN VALLEY CLASSIC

The Goshen Valley Boys Ranch will host its eighth-annual Goshen Valley Classic golf tournament to benefit the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch foster home, located in Waleska. The event will include lunch, tournament prizes, a post-round dinner reception and silent auction. 12:15 p.m., Cherokee Country Club, 665 Hightower Road, Atlanta. GoshenValleyClassic.org

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GOLF ‘FORE’ CHARITY

BridgeMill Sixes Service League will host its fourth-annual Golf “Fore” Charity Tournament to benefit families in need in Cherokee County. The event will feature 18 holes of golf, a luncheon, silent auction and an awards ceremony, along with a special recognition honoring Kim Loesing with MUST Ministries. 9 a.m., BridgeMill Athletic Club, 1190 BridgeMill Ave., Canton. BSSLGolf.org

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DOUG STONE IN CONCERT Country music star and Marietta native Doug Stone will bring his 2013 “Reliving the ‘90s” Tour to Canton. This concert is a Burns & Speights production. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at Tix.com. Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton

Business

What's nEW

Credit Union of Georgia recently opened near the Riverplace Shopping Center in Canton. The credit union previously was located at the Riverstone Mill shopping center in Canton. Credit Union of Georgia offers personal and commercial banking, including checking and savings accounts; personal, home, auto and student loans; and Visa credit cards, along with other services. The Canton branch features a drive-thru teller and drive-up ATM. Walk-in teller hours of operation are 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 9 a.m.1 p.m., Saturday. The drive-thru window is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday. 140 Riverstone Parkway, Canton. 678-486-1111, CUofGA.org

Dairy Queen has a new location in Riverstone Village in Canton. Whether you’re craving a tasty treat, snack, or full meal, Dairy Queen has a variety of menu options to satisfy — including burgers, hot dogs and chicken; sides and salads; and DQ signature Blizzards, cakes, sundaes and other frozen treats. The Riverstone Village Dairy Queen, owned by Ted Owens, also features Orange Julius’ fresh Julius drinks and smoothies, available in a variety of fruit blends and flavors. Hours of operation are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. 147 Reinhardt College Parkway, Riverstone Village, Suite 1, Canton. 770-213-3234, DairyQueen.com

Fashion Attitudes in Canton is a new consignment boutique offering new and gently used clothing for women (up to size 24), men (up to size 5X), and children. The store also features lingerie and dresses for special occasions, along with shoes, handbags, jewelry and other accessories. Owner Sunny Green says 80 percent of the new merchandise comes from stores in New York and California, as well as Kohl’s, Macy’s and Sears overstock. Consignments are based on a 40-60 sales percentage. Hours of operation are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., MondayThursday, and 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday and Saturday. 122 Riverstone Parkway, Canton 678-880-2882, FAConsignment.com

White Water Learning Center of Georgia

Inc. in Canton offers one-on-one and group canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding instruction by experienced staff. All instructors are certified by the Georgia-based American Canoe Association. Instruction is offered for all experience levels. White Water Learning Center of Georgia’s goal is to help individuals “experience whitewater safely while having fun!”

620 Steel Bridge Road, Canton 678-314-1514, WhiteWaterGeorgia.com

Mayor’s Minute

By Mayor Gene Hobgood

Quality Above Quantity

Overthe last five years, Downtown Canton has become much more energized, and the revitalization continues. Numerous events throughout the year bring residents and visitors alike to the downtown area. Great restaurants, retail shops, the Cherokee Arts Center, the Cherokee County History Museum and Welcome Center, and the Canton Theatre add to the community-spirited downtown atmosphere.

The Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority (CCWSA) recently purchased the former Regions Bank Building and is in the process of remodeling both the interior and the exterior of the building; a new look for an older building. CCWSA staff from the current offices on West Main St., as well as from other areas of the county, will occupy the new downtown Main Street location.

At long last, the Cherokee County board of commissioners, owner of the “Jones Building” in Downtown Canton, will begin in early September to remove the old plaster and metal exterior façade from the former “Jones” store building. This project has the potential of creating a focal point for downtown. Underneath the 1960s façade is a beautiful brick building with many windows that currently are not visible. Downtown Canton is moving forward while capturing the essence of the past. Whenever and wherever possible, we must preserve and protect the heritage of our community. I am grateful to the Cherokee County board of commissioners for this important improvement to Downtown Canton.

Sometimes, progress creates some inconvenience. Parking has been a problem in the immediate downtown area for years, and construction on the two buildings means certain parking areas will be lost for a brief time during the construction. The temporary inconvenience created by these projects will be worth it in the end.

The City appreciates every business, whether downtown or near downtown. However, a city is judged by its downtown area. We must continue to keep Downtown Canton vital by encouraging businesses to locate in downtown. The City of Canton, through the Downtown Development Authority, the Main Street Board, Canton Tourism, the Cherokee County Arts Council, the Historical Society, the Commission on Canton’s Future and others, is working hard to make Cherokee County’s “County Seat” the best it can be.

We all love our city. Our goal must be “quality above quantity,” and thus far that’s exactly what we have in Canton. This is what makes Canton unique. The future of our downtown has never been brighter. New businesses and development will occur over the next few years, continuing the creation of a vibrant downtown with restaurants, retail, service and entertainment venues for all our residents.

Come to Downtown Canton and enjoy a great meal, visit the shops, enjoy the entertainment at one of the local restaurants or the Canton Theatre, visit our History Museum, or participate in one of the Cherokee Arts Council’s programs or classes. And don’t forget the special events downtown such as “First Friday,” “Taste of Canton,” “Festival of the Arts,” the “Farmers Market” and much more.

Also, remember to vote November 5 in Canton’s City elections. Your vote is important.

Gene Hobgood is the mayor of Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com

Do you have a really great vacation photo that makes everyone who sees it smile? We want to enjoy it too! Submit your photo to be eligible to win prizes donated from businesses in your community. All entry fees go directly to our featured charity, Cherokee FOCUS, which operates the Cherokee Youth Works Program to serve at-risk youth providing education, workforce training and life skills.

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Email:

Please include your favorite image on minimum size of 4x6 on glossy photo paper along with this form and check for $10.00 payable to Cherokee FOCUS. Images will be judged on “fun factor,” content and technical quality. Prints become property of Family Life Publications and will not be returned. Finalists will be contacted for additional information about their winning photos.

Winners will be announced in our November issue and will receive gift certificates as follows: First place — $100 Family portrait session with PhotoJack.net, Second place — $50 Spa package at Revive Day Spa, Third place — $20 gift certificate to Sixes Tavern

Be the first to find the photo where these pieces belong!

Please email art@familylifepublications.com to submit your answer. Be sure to include the magazine title, your name and contact information. Only emailed answers with full information will be accepted. Individuals can win only once per calendar year. Happy Hunting!

4 Family of

Need a break from your regular lunch routine? Come out to Woodstock’s “Brown Bag Concert Series,” held 12-1 p.m., every Thursday in September. Enjoy Downtown Woodstock with your friends, children and co-workers. Pack your lunch or stop by one of Downtown Woodstock’s many restaurants. Visit WhatsUpWoodstock.com for a schedule of featured musicians. The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock

Looking for family fun things to do? We are too! And with the help of Michelle and Suzanne at ScoopOTP, we found some. Curious for more? Visit ScoopOTP.com!

The Marshall Tucker Band

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll with the Southern Rock legends, The Marshall Tucker Band, on September 14! This free concert in the park is the last of Woodstock’s 16th annual “Summer Concert Series.” Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. Music starts at 7:30 p.m., but — Scoop Tip — arrive early for a good spot and family-friendly activities that will include a moonwalk, face painting and balloon animals, along with food vendors. The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock

If you are excited about fall and the fun events that come with it, your wait is over! Cagle’s Family Farm will offer its annual Corn Maze every Friday-Sunday through November 10. Now in its 13th year, the Corn Maze features more than 3 miles of fun paths to discover. Visit CaglesFamilyFarm.com for times, admission prices and more fall events. 355 Stringer Road, Canton

Which Wich

Looking to take your sandwich choices up a notch? Try Which Wich, located in the Canton Marketplace. With only five OTP locations, we are excited for this new chain of fun and unique sandwiches to open here in Canton. There are more than 50 different sandwich combinations that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Which “Wich” will you choose? 2030 Cumming Hwy., Suite 202, Canton

We all know how much of a beating our carpets take each day. Consistently cleaning carpet is critical to extending the life of the carpet. It is one of the most noticeable areas in the house; even in an otherwise spotless room with freshly painted walls, dirty carpet will be noticed before anything else.

Besides just looking good, having a clean carpet is in the best interest of the family. After all, carpet is the biggest air filter in the house. It keeps the allergens, dust, dander and other unwanted things from floating in the air — but only if it is cleaned properly and regularly.

Carpet Cleaning the Easy Way

By Gemma Beylouny

Frequent vacuuming will reduce the amount of gritty particles in the carpet.

Cleaning carpet with a vacuum can be simple and easy. For best results, vacuum at least once a week (more often in high-traffic areas). A quality vacuum is essential. Use a vacuum with high suction, a well-maintained rotating brush and quality vacuum bag to trap the particles from releasing into the air.

Before vacuuming, remove any items on the floor to make vacuuming easier. Visualize an imaginary quadrant and vacuum the entire area before moving to the next. Take the necessary time to go over each area thoroughly, especially with plush carpeting. Vacuum slowly to allow the suction to work properly in removing the dust and dirt. Pay close attention to the areas where people sit

and walk; vacuum these areas slowly and in a criss-cross pattern. At least once a month use the small attachment tools in those hard-to-reach crevices. Change the vacuum bag as needed, and pour baking soda inside the new vacuum bag to reduce odor.

When cleaning stains in the carpet, always follow the directions noted on your preferred cleaning product. Never use a regular vacuum on wet areas of the carpet; better yet, do not let the carpet soak in water. Wet carpet isn’t good for the carpet or for your family. Keep the carpet as clean and dry as possible at all times.

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Community

Canton’s National Night Out Promotes Public Safety

Canton Police Dept. hosted its annual National Night Out event August 6 at Brown Park. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about and join CAUS, Canton’s Community Action Using Social Media program. They also enjoyed family-friendly activities, including inflatables, face painting, and safety demonstrations by local police, fire and emergency officials. In addition, Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q provided food for the event.

Canton’s National Night Out was part of the nationwide event by the National Association of Town Watch. National Night Out began in 1984 to promote awareness of crime and drug prevention, establish communitypolice partnerships, and instill neighborhood camaraderie. National Night Out now involves more than 37 million people throughout the United States and other countries.

Canton’s annual National Night Out promotes community camaraderie and public safety.

Rotary Club Supports Alliance for Smiles

The Rotary Club of Canton made a donation to Alliance for Smiles at a recent club meeting. Alliance for Smiles is an international service organization that provides free reconstructive surgeries to children with cleft lip and palate abnormalities who otherwise could not afford the services. Rotary Club President Kim Loesing presented the $200 donation to nurse Tricia Spivey, who volunteers in Bangladesh for the organization.

The Rotary Club of Canton also inducted new members at a recent club meeting: Bill Davis, Sequoyah Regional Library System; Say Patel, Bill Holt Chevrolet; Kelly Geiken, Edward Jones Investments, former Rotary assistant district governor, who transferred from another Rotary club; and Edna Cook, who returned to the club after an absence. The inductions were the result of the club’s increased focus on attracting and retaining members, which includes an annual Octoberfest Membership Social to introduce prospective members to the civic club and its opportunities for networking, fellowship and service.

The Rotary Club of Canton is Cherokee County’s oldest civic club. The organization meets at noon on Tuesdays at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton.

BSSL Provides Lunches for Local Children

Members of BridgeMill Sixes Service League prepared more than 2,500 summer lunches for local children in need.

The Bridge Mill Sixes Service League (BSSL) continued its annual tradition of supporting MUST Ministries’ summer school lunch program. This summer, BSSL members prepared and provided more than 2,500 lunches to local children in need. Since 2001, BSSL has prepared and provided 27,500 lunches for area children who depend on the free school lunch program.

BSSL’s efforts were supported by local Kroger and Publix supermarkets, which made it possible for BSSL to purchase the food for the lunches at a reduced price, and by the Cherokee County School District. The program is also supported through donations from the family of the late Barbara Nugent, who was a BSSL member, and through an anonymous donor who contributes to the program each summer.

The BSSL summer school lunch program was coordinated by BSSL members Susan Gaines, Linda Emore, and Darlene Revere.

The Best Hairstyle for Your Face Shape

By Jyl Craven

I think we’ve all done it at one point. We’ve tried to imitate a friend’s or favorite celebrity’s haircut only to be disappointed when the ‘do’ just doesn’t look as good on us as it does on them. What gives?

It’s all about face shape. By determining your face shape and the haircuts that work best for your face, you can minimize problem areas and flatter your unique face.

To determine your face shape, pull your hair back from your face and look in a mirror. If your face is circular and approximately the same length and width, then you are a round face type. If you have a strong, broad forehead and an

angular jaw, then your face type is considered square. If your face is wide at the forehead and cheekbones but narrow at the jawline, then you are a heartshaped face type. Oval face types have longer faces with the forehead and jaw approximately the same width.

Let’s explore the best cuts for these four main face shapes:

Round: Square: Heart: Oval:

Maximize your look by deflecting the natural roundness in your face. Wear your hair in long layers or in gentle waves that draw attention away from your cheek area. If you want to wear bangs, avoid a blunt cut and keep your fringe long and side-swept. Avoid short bobs or a haircut that ends at the widest part of your face; those cuts will maximize, instead of minimize, a round face shape.

Ask

Many women with a square-shaped face want to minimize a strong jaw. If this is the case, wear your hair medium-length to long. Think about light layers, chunky ends or curls to soften the jawline. Side-swept bangs can also minimize a broad forehead. A-line bobs are also flattering on women with square-shaped faces.

Women with heart-shaped faces are often trying to minimize their forehead while filling in the narrow chin area. Consider side-swept bangs to frame the face, or a bobbed length to add texture and volume right at the chin.

Women with heart-shaped faces can wear long hair, too, but might want to consider a cut that draws attention to their cheekbone area.

your stylist about cuts that will flatter your face shape and create a whole new look!

with oval

can wear just about any cut. The only caution we recommend is to avoid too much volume on the top of the head, which might lengthen the face too much.

Cherokee County Historical Society Annual Membership Picnic october 20 Rabbit Hill Farm

The Olde Rope Mill Park in Woodstock, near The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, is named after a mill site with a long history in Cherokee County. The site was first used as the Little River grist mill in the 1830s. The water-powered mill was used to grind corn into cornmeal and feed. By 1875, the falls were also powering a woolen mill and sawmill.

The mill became known as the Woodstock Cotton Mills after being purchased by James A. Atherton in the 1880s. It was later sold to J.S. Dorn and became known as the Dorn Rope Mills, producing as much as 2,000 bales of rope per year. Dorn replaced the old wooden mill buildings with a new brick building, which was damaged by a flood in 1925. He rebuilt the dam and enlarged the mill.

After 1928, Joe E. Johnston and Smith L. Johnston ran the mill, producing rope for plows and wells. During WWII the mill produced rope for military tents and employed 30 people. Purchased by the Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Lake Allatoona project, the mill was closed and removed in 1952. These rarely seen photos show the Dorn Rope Mills building and Rope Mill Bridge as they appeared in 1924.

Dorn Rope Mills and Rope Mill Bridge, photographed here in 1924, date back to the original Little River grist mill of the 1830s. The site now is home to Olde Rope Mill Park, located near the new outlet shopping center off of I-575 Exit 9 in Woodstock.

Are Your Eyes Helping or Hurting Sports Performance?

By Kyle Edwards, O.D.

We love our sports in Georgia. While our love for sports will often lead us to buy the latest and greatest golf driver or baseball bat to help us hit a ball farther, we often neglect our most important piece of equipment: our eyes.

Prescription eyewear must be kept up to date in order to properly see during any athletic activity. It is also important to know which eye is your dominant eye to determine how to line up objects in your field of vision. The dominant eye processes information faster and often sees more clearly than the non-dominant eye as well. About 80 percent of the population is same-side dominant — meaning they are both right-handed and right eye-dominant (or left-handed and

left eye-dominant). Approximately 20 percent are cross-dominant, meaning they are right-handed but left eye-dominant (or vice versa).

Knowing your ocular dominance is particularly helpful in side-on sports, such as baseball and golf, in which the athlete stands to the side of the ball as he hits. In this situation, an athlete who is cross-dominant is thought to have an advantage because the dominant eye is closer to the ball so that he can better visualize the ball in setup and swing.

One simple test to find out your dominant eye is to focus on an object across the room, such as a light switch. Then, make a circle between your hands, leaving just

enough space to see the light switch through from 12 feet. Once you have the light switch in focus between your hands, close one eye and then the other. The eye that can still see the light switch within the circle made by your hands is your dominant eye.

Determining your dominant eye can aid your ability to perform in your sport. In baseball, a right-handed batter that is also right eye-dominant may need to better position his head in order to get his right eye around to better see the ball out of the pitcher’s hand. There are many applications to this knowledge, and a good place to start is a comprehensive eye exam with your eye care professional.

10-4 cherokee away 7:30 Pm 10-18 roswell away 7:30 Pm 10-25 etowah away 7:30 Pm

11-1 wheeler home 7:30 Pm

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8-16 centennial (S) away 7 Pm 8-30 cherokee home 7:30 Pm

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Friday Night

Academic

Local Students Make Bags for Animal Shelter

Teasley Middle and Cherokee High School students participated in a service project over the summer to benefit the Cherokee County Animal Shelter. The students assisted in making tote bags crafted from pet food bags by volunteers. The tote bags are sold at the shelter, with all proceeds used to care for the shelter’s animals. The students washed 130 pet food bags to be used for the tote bags, and then toured the shelter and played with kittens to assist in socialization.

These tote bags were made by local middle and high school students to help support the Cherokee County Animal Shelter.

Free Home Elementary Wins School Bell Award

Free Home Elementary School, led by Principal Karen Carl, has won the 2013 School Bell Award presented by the Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals (GAESP). This distinguished honor is presented to 10 schools in Georgia each year in recognition of outstanding programs in the area of curriculum and organizational leadership.

Free Home was selected for this honor based on its outstanding initiative, “Cultivating a Positive Learning Environment.” The selection committee chooses exemplary programs that show positive results and reflect significant involvement of staff, students, parents and community.

The school and Principal Carl were recognized by Cherokee County School District (CCSD) Superintendent Dr. Frank R. Petruzielo and by the school board at the August 15 CCSD school board meeting. The award will be presented, and the school will be formally recognized, during the GAESP’s Fall Principals’ Conference in Savannah this November.

Principal Carl says the initiative began on the first day of pre-planning last school year when she met with the staff and read aloud, “Have You Filled Your Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids,” by Carol McCloud. “I wanted to introduce reaching everyone’s maximum potential to both the staff and the students. I wanted to set the tone that we are the best and should expect the best!”

Creekview High Graduate Begins Classes at U.S. Military Academy

Ben McFarlin, a 2013 graduate of Creekview High School (CHS), has been appointed to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. McFarlin participated in basic training over the summer and began classes in August. He was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy by U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson and U.S. Represenative Tom Price.

While a student at CHS, McFarlin served as president of the Environmental Club and co-executive of the school’s Habitat for Humanity chapter. He was a Superintendent’s Key Scholar and was selected “Senior Senator” for Georgia at the American Legion’s Boys Nation event.

“We’re incredibly proud of Ben,” said his mother, Linda McFarlin. “We were there as a family, along with his girlfriend, Emily Zimmerman, when he reported for Cadet Basic Training — also known as ‘Beast Barracks’ — on July 1 and for Acceptance Day on August 17, when he became an official West Point cadet.”

Cherokee Office of Economic Development

Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) hosted an Economic Development Forum August 14 at Northside-Cherokee Conference Center in Canton to present findings of a recent survey of businesses in Cherokee County. Leaders from the COED, including Misti Martin, president, shared the overwhelmingly positive findings of the survey. The survey has been conducted every two years since 2007.

Of the 23 companies surveyed between April and June of this year, 91 percent reported growth in their primary product or service; 87 percent have introduced new products; and 78 percent expect to expand within the next three years. In addition, 2013 sales for the companies surveyed have already surpassed sales for all of 2007. They also noted that the Cherokee County workforce has a high work ethic, good access to all levels of labor, and is stable. The report also noted

an increase in the number of business licenses and building permits issued for Cherokee County.

“These are our most optimistic results of the survey to date,” Martin says. In addition to The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta’s recent opening in Woodstock and the new Northside Hospital-Cherokee under construction in Canton, three large companies soon will open new facilities in Cherokee County. Inalfa, which manufactures automobile sunroofs, will open a new 165,000-square-foot office this fall. Cabela’s Outfitters will open a new retail store — its first in Georgia — here in fall 2014. Midwest Metals just announced plans to open a new facility here as well. Each of these new businesses

will open at the new Cherokee 75 Corporate Park, located off of Highway 92 near I-75.

Martin also noted areas of concern for continued growth. “We have to retain our own talent within Cherokee County and become a self-sustaining community. We have to make Cherokee County not only a great place to live, play and shop but also a great place to do business.”

Preventing Sleep Problems In Infants

By Vicki Knight-Mathis, M.D.

As you welcome your little bundle of joy home from the hospital, you also welcome the many new challenges of parenting. One of the most common challenges for parents is sleep deprivation. As a new parent you want to make sure to meet all of your infant’s needs. While it is believed that infants do not become spoiled for several months, it is never too early to develop good parenting skills that will instill lifelong habits for your children. Believe it or not, what is good for parents also is good for infants and children in terms of sleep.

I know you have your cute little baby in his own crib beside your bed so you can hear him if he needs you. I did, too. If you want to keep your baby in your bedroom, push the crib away from your bed so that you will not be disturbed when your baby wiggles. If you have your infant in his own bedroom and use a baby monitor, turn down the volume.

Avoid holding or feeding your baby until he falls asleep. Instead, lay him down drowsy in the same place during daytime naps and at night and let him fall asleep on his own. Most infants will feed three to four hours throughout the day and night for the first several months. Usually by 4 months, or approximately 13 pounds, your infant can sleep up to six hours.

There are advantages to choosing not to let your baby sleep in the same bed with you. The risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is higher, secondary to suffocation by a tired parent laying on the baby, or pillows or soft bedding falling over the face of the baby. It is much more common to have family dysfunction as a result of lack of sleep.

Meeting your infant’s emotional and physical needs as a parent is your top priority, and you may need to sacrifice your own sleep when your child is sick

or injured. Parents and infants alike can enjoy the daily experiences more fully if all are adequately rested.

Here’s to many restful “ZZZZZZs.”

Windows Efficiency: Keyboard Shortcuts

By Scott Lavelle

The mouse was a fantastic invention. Back in 1981, the first one was introduced for use with a Personal Computer. In fact, you can go as far back as 1964 to find the first prototypes, invented by Douglas Engelbart.

Today, you can hardly buy a computer without a mouse, and some computer features require a mouse or pointing device of some kind to access. Most features, however, can be accessed by keyboard alone; many, in fact, are more efficient when accessed via keyboard shortcuts. These are a few of my favorite keyboard shortcuts.

To use these shortcuts, press and hold the “modifier key,” such as Shift, Control, Alt, or the Windows Key ( ), then press and release the key for the shortcut.

Key Combo Function

Arrow Keys Move around the document

Shift + Arrow Keys Select text

Ctrl + Arrow Keys Move a word at a time

Ctrl + Shift + Arrow Keys Select a word at a time

Home Go to the beginning of the current line

Ctrl + Home Go to the beginning of the current document

End Go to the end of the current line

Ctrl + End Go to the end of the current document

Ctrl + X Cut

Ctrl + B Bold

Ctrl + C Copy

Ctrl + U Underline

Ctrl + V Paste

Ctrl + I Italic

Ctrl + A Select All

Ctrl + Z Undo

Ctrl + Y Redo

F2 Rename

F3 Search

F5 Refresh

Windows + M Minimize Open Windows

Windows + E My Computer

Windows + Up Arrow Maximize Current Window

Windows + Down Arrow Minimize Current Window

These are just a few of my most commonly used shortcuts. They keep me from constantly reaching for my mouse to perform regularly used functions. It may not seem like a lot of time or effort to save with each operation, but it definitely adds up over time.

Scott Lavelle is the co-owner/technical director of Technical Resource Solutions. 678-928-9491, TechnicalRS.com

by Michelle Martin

Marietta Plastic Surgery has built a reputation as one of metro Atlanta’s leading providers of plastic surgery. As a full-service plastic surgery facility, Marietta Plastic Surgery offers a wide range of plastic surgery and non-invasive aesthetic procedures — including face lift; nose surgery; eyelid surgery; breast augmentation and lift; liposuction; tummy tuck; Botox injection; dermal fillers; laser skin resurfacing; and more.

Dr. KeITH WeST, MD, FACS

Dr. MicHAeL McNeeL, MD, FAcS

Dr. THADDeuS FAbIAN, MD, FACS

Dr. KeITH HANNA, MD, FACS

Dr. JoHN SyMBAS, MD

Members of American Board of Plastic Surgery

Members of American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Two locations for Marietta Plastic Surgery offer patients more convenience and more flexible scheduling. The Marietta office is just blocks from Kennestone Hospital where the doctors have admitting privileges. The Woodstock office is located off of Towne Lake Parkway and is easily accessible via I-575. The physicians at Marietta Plastic Surgery — Drs. Keith West, Michael McNeel, Thaddeus Fabian, and Keith Hanna — have had an office in Towne Lake since 2002, but increased their commitment to the area by building a bigger office in 2009 to meet the growing demand of a growing Cherokee County. They expanded the practice again in 2011 with the addition of Dr. John Symbas. “Our Woodstock location gives patients in Cherokee County and surrounding areas access to Marietta Plastic Surgery’s experienced, respected team of plastic surgeons without driving into metro Atlanta,” says Dr. Symbas. “We split our time equally at each office — one day in Marietta, one day in Woodstock, and three days in surgery — so that patients can see a doctor at either location every day of the week.”

All surgeries are performed in the Marietta office, which features two operating rooms certified by the American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities. For most patients undergoing plastic surgery, privacy is a concern; the operating rooms at the Marietta office have a private entrance and exit area in the back to allow patients to come and go without being seen by other patients or staff. Dr. Hanna describes Marietta Plastic Surgery’s private operating room service to that of a boutique clothing store. “It’s more personal, private and convenient than going to a large hospital, parking in a deck, walking a long way to the admissions area, and waiting your turn in the operating room — just like shopping at a small boutique store typically is more enjoyable and personal than shopping at a large department store.”

In addition, Dr. Hanna says Marietta Plastic Surgery’s operating staff has been in place for years, so they understand patients’ needs and show great sensitivity and compassion.

The Marietta Plastic Surgery team of five board-certified, experienced and highly trained physicians is the second-largest plastic surgery group in metro Atlanta. Combined, the doctors at Marietta Plastic Surgery have more than 60 years’ clinical experience in plastic surgery. As Dr. Hanna explains, the doctors share a commitment to work together to provide their patients with the best care possible. “being in a relatively large group practice allows us to bounce ideas off of each other and consult together on patients’ cases so that we help our patients make the most informed decision about their plastic surgery,” he says. In addition, the doctors’ diverse training at some of the nation’s top medical schools and continuing education programs gives them a wide breadth of information that they can exchange and apply to individual cases.

As a group practice, Marietta Plastic Surgery often can purchase and implement new plastic surgery technology as soon as it’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration and available from manufacturers. Vectra 3D imaging, for example, allows doctors to

SAvE ThE DATE

MPS Open House October 15

Woodstock Location, 5-7 p.m.

Meet our highly skilled plastic surgeons and learn about the latest facial, breast and body procedures.

• botox demos

• event only specials and giveaways

Marietta Plastic Surgery provides full-service elective and reconstructive plastic surgery, including but not limited to the following popular procedures and services:

Facelift

Eyelid Surgery

Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

Breast Augmentation / Lift

Drainless Tummy Tuck

Liposuction

CoolSculpting® Body

Contouring

BOTOX® Cosmetic Injections

Dermal Fillers such as Restylane, Juvéderm, Radiesse, and Sculptra

Laser Skin Treatments

Aesthetic Treatments

(Skin Peels, Facials, Microdermabrasion)

take picture of patients, then adjust the image with the addition of breast implants or other types of procedures to give the patients a realistic picture of what they would look like after the procedure. “Other programs work similarly, but Vectra 3D produces the most predictable results,” says Dr. Symbas. TouchMD is a new patient education software that essentially serves as a digital

consultation, as Dr. Hanna explains. All of the details of a patient’s consultation are digitally recorded for secure online access via the TouchMD website.

“TouchMD makes it easier for a patient to reference important information, such as the Vectra 3D images and pre-op instructions, about their procedure that they may not remember from the initial consultation,” Dr. Hanna says. “Plus, they can easily share the information with family and friends if they choose.” In addition, Marietta Plastic Surgery’s Dr. McNeel was the first in the state to use the new Sientra silicone breast implants featuring a more natural teardrop shape.

Another advantage of a group practice like Marietta Plastic Surgery is personal service. Patients can rest assured that they will always see one of the five doctors on staff. “even if their preferred doctor is in surgery or out of town, patients can trust that they’ll receive the same level of quality and personal care from one of our other doctors,” says Dr. Symbas. being part of a group practice also allows the doctors to provide one-on-one time with patients. “Our goal at Marietta Plastic Surgery is to create a pleasant experience for patients, from start to finish. it is important to each of us at every stage that we take time with patients to answer any questions, alleviate any concerns, make them comfortable, and provide the most pleasant, positive experience possible,” says Dr. Hanna. Adds Dr. Symbas, “My hope is that all of our patients are so pleased with their procedures at Marietta Plastic Surgery that they would say we are a talented, compassionate group of surgeons and staff, and would recommend Marietta Plastic Surgery to their loved ones.”

Tech Tools for Tots

By Mary Kay Buquoi

When my 4-year-old daughter was introduced to a computer for the first time at school, she began by touching the screen. I thought it odd initially; but, as I continued to watch other children her age I noticed the same thing. Using technology while I was a kid revolved around a computer lab and staying alive on the Oregon Trail. With Apple, Android and Tablet products, it is hard to keep kids today away from technology in their everyday lifestyle. According to The New York Times, “Digital devices let students learn at their own pace, teach skills needed in a modern economy, and hold the attention of a generation weaned on gadgets.”

Engaging educational technology is almost a must to continue to hold the attention of this technological generation. I am always looking for new and engaging apps for my daughter. I have personally tried the following apps and would love to share with readers the ones that allowed my daughter to learn at her own pace, learn specific skills and hold her attention.

Preschool Prep Apps (1 year and up) — From colors and shapes to sight words, most all preschool prep apps keep kids’ attention with personal interaction.

TeachMe — For toddlers to third-graders, this app allows parents to choose levels of academic instruction and rewards kids for the completion of activities. In addition, children can earn “money” to purchase items in the store.

Farfaria — This eBook system stores hundreds of books in 10 different lands. The books have the option to be read independently or read aloud to you, and the app has the ability to sort by levels.

MouseMaze — The new and improved Pac Man, MouseMaze has multiple levels of mazes that help kids to work on hand-eye control, visualizing a path, anticipating outcomes, solving a problem and completing a task.

Highlights Hidden Pictures — Highlights was always my favorite magazine as a kid and, to be honest, I love to play this app with my daughter. It works on perceptual training, which has been shown to increase reading skills in young children.

Canton’s popular arts and crafts festival impacts Cherokee County long after the weekend event.

By Michelle Martin

For almost 30 years, Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival has been a source of family-friendly entertainment and unique treasures crafted by local artisans for Cherokee County residents and visitors alike. This year’s festival, scheduled for September 28-29 at Boling Park along the banks of the Etowah River in Canton, promises to offer plenty of fantastic food, activities and entertainment for children and adults to enjoy, as well as the popular marketplace featuring more than 200 exhibitors’ arts and crafts.

Riverfest is presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, the oldest service league in the area. It is the organization’s largest fundraising event of the year, with proceeds benefitting Cherokee County children in need. According to Jennifer Stanley, who serves as the chairperson for Riverfest 2013, all of the funds raised from Riverfest help provide medical care, dental care, eyeglasses, food, clothing, scholarships and other necessities for local children in need. “I am very humbled to be the chair this year to a tradition that is now 29 years old,” she says. “The ladies of the Service League of Cherokee County work on this cause year-round to create two days of fundraising that will make a difference in the lives of children here in our county.”

Stanley says Riverfest 2013 is “bittersweet,” as this year marks her 10th and final year of commitment to the Service League of Cherokee County. “Still, I look forward to utilizing the knowledge passed down many years from my predecessors and mixing in some new aspects of the event this year to keep the Riverfest tradition alive.”

Some of the features new to Riverfest this year include a redesigned children’s area and

a Riverfest-style “End Zone” tailgate area. The Service League of Cherokee County also will debut its new cookbook, “Gatherings & Traditions,” featuring recipes that “capture the essence of Southern cooking throughout the generations and create lasting memories as families and friends gather around the table.” Copies of the cookbook will be available for purchase at Riverfest, at local retail stores and from Service League members throughout the year.

“Riverfest has become a fall family tradition in north metro Georgia over the past 28 years. During that time, the festival has continuously evolved, offering new and exciting features each and every year,” says Millie Cline, Riverfest chair of publicity. “While some things at Riverfest may change from year to year, there are many more things, such as wholesome fun for the entire family and the Service League’s mission to raise funds for needy children, that remain the same.”

Delane Stevens, president of the Service League and a former caseworker and sponsorship chair, brings a unique perspective to Riverfest this year. “I feel fortunate to view the Service League’s work from the standpoint of sponsorship, which is income; casework, which is expenses; and as president, which involves the ‘big picture’ overview of the entire Service League,” she says. “If you support the Service League as a sponsor, a participant of Riverfest, or a volunteer, then you are making a difference in the life of a child. We depend on Riverfest to help fund our annual budget and assist the children we pledge to serve. I am excited as Riverfest approaches. I attended the festival as a little girl; to see it now from this perspective, knowing the vital role it plays in assisting children who cannot help themselves, is very rewarding.”

Riverfest

10 a.m.-6 p.m., September 28

10 a.m.-5 p.m., September 29

Boling Park, Canton

$5 Donation Admission (adult and children 11+)

Dogs are not allowed per city ordinance

Most people in America know why we celebrate Labor Day, but I decided to Google “Labor Day” and find out more about this national holiday. I found in my research this quote, “The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideas of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom and leadership — The American Worker.”

Congress eventually passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday. For the most part, it has been a day of

Celebrating Labor Day

rest in modern times. Many people mark Labor Day as the end of the summer season and a last chance for vacation and outdoor events. Labor Day now being a federal holiday means that all government offices, schools, organizations and many businesses are closed.

I also did a Bible search on Labor Day. The Bible tells us why man labors. In Genesis 3:17-19, God said to Adam, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, ‘You shall not eat of it, Cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life. … By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken, for you are dust and to dust you shall return.”

By Norman Hunt

Up until this point in the Bible, Adam and Eve had been taken care of and their needs had been provided by God. But after their sin, God said, “You will have to work to provide your own means.” Man had disobeyed God; as a result, he must work. When you think about it, work really is a result of man disobeying God. That doesn’t make pleasant what we do for a living when you consider it in that light. But when you consider all of the unemployment in America today, having a job and a place to work truly is a blessing!

Have a wonderful Labor Day!

Successful Start

By Janet Read

This is the first time in 15 years that I have not had at least one of my boys attending a Cherokee County school. It seems odd that I wasn’t busy planning the first day’s breakfast for about 20 of my friends; shopping for school supplies; attending “Meet and Greet” events; or making sure my PTSA committee was on target for its goals. It is exciting to see both of my boys head off to the colleges of their choice, but it is also bittersweet to have closed that chapter in my life’s book.

Even though I am no longer a Cherokee County School District (CCSD) parent, I am still very involved with what is happening around the district. This year the school calendar will reflect the full 180 instructional school days. Some of the students may not be too happy about this, but I know our teachers are. Although

to a New School Year

previously we increased the school days by eight minutes to compensate for lost instructional time, I think most teachers prefer having the additional five days to cover all the necessary material.

Over the past four years, the CCSD has cut/eliminated 50 bus driver positions and consolidated more than 200 bus routes. This year, our 350 buses will transport approximately 23,000 students each morning and 26,000 each afternoon. This is about 70 percent of our student population. Our cafeterias served 5.3 million meals last year, including breakfast and lunch. This year, approximately 32 percent of our students are eligible for free or reduced lunch prices. School lunch menus are posted online, and parents have the ability to monitor/pay their student’s lunch account online.

Our anticipated enrollment for 2013-14 is 39,324 students. Rest assured that when your student arrived on campus August 5 for the first day of school, our 41 campuses throughout the county were geared up and ready to go! The ongoing education and safety of our students is a team effort. Kudos to the teachers, administrators and staff who worked tirelessly this summer to make sure the 2013-14 school year is another successful year!

Taste of

Marinated Cheese

Submitted by emily Jobe

Ingredients

1 (7-ounce) envelope Italian dressing mix

½ cup vegetable oil

¼ cup white vinegar

2 Tbsp. minced green onion

2 Tbsp. water

1½ tsp. sugar

1 (8-ounce) block Monterey Jack cheese, chilled

1 (8-ounce) block Cheddar cheese, chilled

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, chilled

1 (4-ounce) jar chopped pimentos, drained

Assorted crackers

Preparation

Whisk together first six ingredients. Set aside. Cut Monterey Jack cheese in half, lengthwise. Cut each half crosswise into quarter-inch-thick slices. These will resemble a square. Repeat with Cheddar and cream cheeses. Arrange cheese in four rows in a shallow baking dish, alternating Monterey Jack, Cheddar and cream cheeses. Pour marinade over cheese. Cover and chill at least eight hours. Drain marinade from cheese and arrange cheese slices on a platter in rows. Top with pimentos and serve with assorted crackers.

Recipe is from the “Gatherings & Traditions Cookbook,” produced by the Service League of Cherokee County. The Service League of Cherokee County has been working to meet the needs of the children of Cherokee County since 1935. In addition to the cookbook, the organization’s fundraising efforts include the annual Riverfest arts and crafts festival; “Run for the Children” 5K Walk/1-Mile Fun Run; and Annual Ball, featuring the “Dancing for the Children” competition. ServiceLeague.net

What Makes a

Strong Family?

By James E. Kilgore, Ph.D.

What makes a strong family? That’s a question I’m often asked in my work as a marriage and family therapist. Far less research exists about happy and healthy families than about sick ones, but four characteristics emerge from almost all the findings:

The members of a strong family appreciate each other. They make each other feel important and worthwhile. More than any other group, the family determines who we are and how we feel about ourselves. Your family’s appreciation becomes the single most important contribution to your healthy self-image. That also means that your acceptance of the members of your family is extremely important.

Strong families communicate. They talk about both the pleasant times and conflicts they share. Each member believes that it is okay for him to talk about his feelings and ideas within the family. Communication between members of the family is essential to the good mental health of each member of the family. How you listen is equally important as how much you talk.

Families are strong when they share common goals and values. “The family that prays together stays together” has proven to be more than an adage. The sense of unity in the home is measured by the degree to which members of the family share recreational, social, spiritual, and value goals. The symbols of family-sharing may be the activities in which we participate, but the values are experienced as we live them out in our daily actions. How long has it been since your family talked about what’s most important to all of you?

Strong families do things together. They enjoy spending time in joint activities and give those activities priority over other interests. They feel good about being together. Each member of the family will not equally enjoy all activities on every occasion, but being together in the shared time becomes a value in itself.

Check your family out to see if these ingredients are present. If not, become a one-person change agent to shape your own family in the right direction.

Dr. Kilgore is president of the International Family Foundation. 770-479-3669, JEKIFF@hotmail.com

‘An Apple a Day…’

By Kellie Baxter, D.C.

September marks the beginning of the apple harvest season, so there’s no better time to start the healthy habit of eating an apple a day. It really is true that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away!” Apples have so many benefits that you may actually keep several doctors away.

Apples are great for your heart and have been proven to lower bad cholesterol by as much as 20 percent. Daily apple consumption has been shown to lower C-reactive protein levels by a third. C-reactive protein is a marker of inflammation thought by cardiologists to be an indicator of heart disease. Several studies have shown that apples also reduce the risk of stroke.

Apples are packed full of fiber. Fiber-filled foods help cleanse the bowels and colon. Eliminating waste rids the body of toxins, promoting clearer skin and decreased risk of colon and other cancers. Apples contain compounds called oligosaccharides. These are cancer killers! Oligosaccharides have been known to kill 46 percent of cancer cells in the human colon. What is truly amazing about this research is that it shows that the oligosaccharides outperform some of the more popular chemotherapy drugs — without the side effects. Other flavonoids like quercetin and triterpenoids combined with oligosaccharides have been shown to slow lung and breast cancer.

Apples also contain a substance called pectin, which boosts the immune system. Anything that boosts the immune system will also help acne-prone skin. Apples have other beauty benefits, too. Apples are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them natural appetite suppressors. They contain malic acid, which helps to whiten teeth and is a common ingredient found in tooth-whitening products. Unripe apples contain a compound called Procyanidin B-2, which is a polyphenol that helps to not only re-grow hair but also increase hair diameter by 75 percent. That’s great if you have thinning hair! Research results were achieved by applying the compound to the scalp topically.

Isn’t it time that you pick up an apple a day? As always, stay well adjusted!

Dr. Kellie Baxter is a chiropractor at Baxter Chiropractic. 770-345-1111, BaxterChiro.com

Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings

Chamber Events

Sponsored by The Wheeler House. RSVP by 5 p.m. on September 20. There is no charge to attend.

4:30-6:30 p.m.

510 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground

Alternative Treatments for Anxiety & Depression

By Chris Meiners, D.C.

I have always been surprised by the amount of people who take medication for anxiety, depression and other conditions that can be treated successfully without medications. Approximately 50 percent of patients who come to my office for back or neck pain are already taking one or more medications for anxiety and/or depression. Unfortunately, few of those patients are aware of the side effects of such medications and how those side effects can impact their overall health.

There is an alternative treatment for anxiety and depression other than medications: neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback was first developed in the 1960s to help improve performance of NASA astronauts. The results of the NASA research were so positive that researchers expanded neurofeedback’s application to gauge its effect in treating certain conditions, including anxiety and depression.

People suffer from anxiety and depression for a number of reasons, some of which can be complicated to identify. Neurofeedback aids in identifying possible reasons for anxiety and depression by mapping your brain and comparing it to the “normal” base that is based on more than 40 years of research findings. The test is a Quantitative Electroencephalogram, or QEEG, which measures your four main brain waves: Beta, Alpha, Theta and Delta. Beta waves are produced when you are alert and externally focused. Alpha waves are produced when you close your eyes and relax. Theta waves are produced briefly when you start to fall asleep, and Delta

waves occur when you are sleeping. These brain waves can get “stuck” in a pattern and cause brain deregulation. Brain deregulation can be caused by a number of different things, such as poor nutrition, emotional or physical trauma, drugs, toxins, stress, and many other factors.

Neurofeedback “normalizes” brain waves so that anxiety and depression, and many other conditions, can be treated without medications. Neurofeedback treatment takes only 30-40 minutes. It is not invasive — you’re connected to a computer and prompted through different exercises that “re-word” your brain. Sounds too good to be true, right? But neurofeedback really works. To learn more about neurofeedback, visit BrainCoreTherapy.com.

770-720-4090, CantonWellness.com

At PharMoore Pharmacy, our focus is on you! Unlike large chain pharmacies, we are communitybased and strive to provide a family-like atmosphere for all our customers. We are a local, independent pharmacy. We make a point to understand the health needs of you and your family. We pride ourselves on personalizing our care to meet your healthcare needs. In addition, we try to find the lowest prescription prices whenever possible. We will work with physicians to find lowerpriced generic drugs, if available, to keep your medicine affordable.

We accept most insurance plans, including Express Scripts, Blue Cross, Caremark, Worker’s Comp, Medicare, and Medicaid to name a few. We offer custom prescription compounding; home medical equipment; a diabetic resource center (including supplies, diabetic shoes and socks); and vaccinations. We are proud to offer the ScripTalk audible prescription reading device free to customers who need this service. Remember, flu season is fast approaching — get your flu shot today! Appointments are not necessary! You will not be just a number at PharMoore Pharmacy; you will be family!

PharMoore Pharmacy is here for you! We are conveniently located off of Sixes Road in Canton, across the street from McDonald’s. For your convenience, we offer free delivery every day.

www.pharmoore.com

Controlling Weedy Vines

By Louise Estabrook

Native and non-native ornamental vines can become weedy problems in your trees and shrubs. Many can be hard to control if left unchecked. Among these troublesome vines are cross vine (Bignonia capreolata); bittersweet (Celastrus species); English ivy (Hedera helix); Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia); wisteria (Wisteria species); kudzu (Pueraria montana); greenbrier (Smilax species); trumpet vine (Campsis radicans); and poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).

Some of these, like English ivy and wisteria, have ornamental value. Others, like Virginia creeper, are important sources of food for wildlife. In a perfect world, all of them would be maintained or removed when they’re small plants.

If you have a vine you’re trying to get rid of, a few tactics could help in your efforts. First, consider trying to maintain the vine you’re about to remove. English ivy, Virginia creeper and cross vine can be brought in bounds with a little pruning. Many of these plants can take years to reach the stature they’ve achieved. These plants don’t become a problem overnight. Even the mighty kudzu can take years to cover a tree canopy.

Ivy will not damage a healthy tree. If a tree is in decline for another reason, then a heavy growth of ivy may contribute to the breakage of large branches. When ivy climbs high into the canopy of a tree,

it becomes very heavy. When it rains, it gets even heavier — and if we get one of Georgia’s ice storms, then that ivy can become dangerous!

What about the ivy on the ground? That ivy retains ground moisture and prevents weed growth. It also provides a perfect cover for snakes! Ivy on the ground can be controlled. Mow it down with a lawn mower or a weed eater, then fertilize it and water when it stops raining. What you are trying to do is to force new growth. When it puts out that new growth, uses a non-selective herbicide on it, let it work for two weeks, then repeat the whole procedure until the ivy is so weakened it just gives up. It’s a tough little vine, but you can beat it!

Louise Estabrook is the Agricultural and Natural Resources agent for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. 770-479-0418, CAES.UGA.edu/Extension/Cherokee

By Heike Hellmann-Brown

Labor Day is always highly anticipated by watercolor artist Brenda Harris Tustian. This is when she introduces her annual Christmas painting. “My 27th edition of this cherished keepsake depicts Santa at the manger,” she says. “I consider it one of my best, and I am very excited to show it to the public.”

What has become a tradition started out when Tustian wanted to create something special for her first granddaughter. In the following years she painted a Santa scene for each of her six grandchildren, and collectors began to pay attention. “I love the subject matter,” she explains. “I simply love Christmas. I love the joy, the calm, the peacefulness. You have to have a connection to what you paint.”

Meanwhile, Tustian’s magical Christmas art is part of corporate and private collections around the world. Her painting, “God Bless America,” from her “Patriotic Christmas” series had even been presented to former president George W. Bush.

Tustian’s talent was discovered during her childhood and fostered by her parents and teachers. She studied Fine Art at the University of Tennessee and continued to paint in oils as a hobby while she raised her three children. During a one-year stay in Brazil with her family, she was introduced to watercolors by The American Society of São Paulo. The transparency of the medium sparked her interest. Back in the United States, Tustian studied with prominent watercolor instructors, and eventually began to exhibit her artwork.

The gorgeous setting of Tustian’s studio at her horse farm in Ball Ground offers splendid views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and endless inspiration. “It’s like a piece of paradise. I can spend hours completely lost in the joy of painting landscapes and florals,” she says. Another inspiration comes from traveling overseas; Tustian takes annual workshops in Italy and has painted in Monet’s garden in Giverny, France.

Tustian has received numerous awards throughout her career. Two of her pieces were chosen as the official posters for the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the Atlanta Garden and Patio Show. Many of her images have been licensed for use on home décor, puzzles, giftware and Christmas cards. Her newest project is a series of collegiate works that integrate themes from the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, the University of Tennessee, and the University of Alabama.

“My paintings convey so much love. Each piece reflects who I am — it’s a view inside my creative world,” Tustian says. What does she still strive to accomplish? “Reach out to touch more hearts, touch more people.”

Sales of Tustian’s artwork have supported such charities as the American Humane Society, the U.S. Equestrian Foundation, the Marine Corps, the Cancer Society, and Children’s Healthcare.

Brenda Harris Tustian continues to show her work at local festivals and can be found at the Yellow Daisy Festival in Stone Mountain. She also teaches regularly at “Corkscrew and Canvas,” a business she co-owns with her daughter Sheri.

Heike Hellmann-Brown is a published writer in the United States and Europe. She has translated and edited several New York Times bestsellers and has taught both English and her native German as a foreign language in a career that has spanned more than 20 years.

Your Eyes

Are the Window to Your Soul

By Drs. Musarra, Leake & Petrosky

Have you ever heard that old saying? Well, it is true; eyes can tell a lot about a person. Your eyes can look older than you actually are because of the aging process. Do you think your eyes appear tired, puffy, wrinkled or just unattractive? An eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) can help restore a beautiful, more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Eyelid surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures done today. It removes excess skin, fat or muscle from those droopy and puffy upper and lower eyelids. Blepharoplasty improves baggy skin under the eyes, sinking upper eyelids or drooping eyelids that impair vision. The procedure can correct a medical condition called ptosis (drooping eyelid), which is caused by poor muscle tone or nerve damage. Ptosis causes the eyelid to hang very low and block vision. As we age, excess skin forms in and around the eye area, and the skin loses its elasticity. Fatty tissue cannot be removed by losing weight. Even with good skincare and eye care, wrinkles, puffiness and drooping eyelids will catch up with you.

Blepharoplasty is a very easy procedure with very little pain or down time. It is an outpatient procedure that can be performed with either general anesthesia (completely asleep) or under sedation (partially asleep). The procedure only takes one to two hours depending on the work necessary. Bruising and swelling normally clear within 7-10 days. There will be a visible scar for about two months, but it can be covered easily with makeup until it fades.

What do you see when you look in the mirror? If you don’t like what you see, change it. This simple procedure alone can change how you see yourself and how others see you. You, your friends and family will love your new look! Friends and family will wonder if you have been on a diet, vacation or changed your hairstyle because the change from the surgery will be subtle — just a new, refreshed look! Consult a boardcertified plastic surgeon to consider if eyelift surgery is right for you to “open the window to your soul.”

Drs. Leake, Musarra and Petrosky are board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242, PlasticSurgeryCenteroftheSouth.net

Little children are aware they are dependent on a parent to meet their needs physically, spiritually and emotionally. A young child cannot drive herself to the grocery store and push the huge shopping cart! She can’t safely cook a meal by herself while standing on a stool and leaning over a hot stove. She can’t walk down to the street corner, hop on a bus, go to the mall and buy clothes for school. What would you think if you saw a 6-yearold girl walking down a busy shopping mall corridor alone with a designer bag on her arm – and her bag full of credit cards?

Child-Like Faith Is Mature Faith

She would tell you she’s on her own because she insisted she doesn’t need her parent’s help. Do you think this girl would be safe all alone? Do you think she could get one item off a clothes rack? Do you think she could see over the checkout counter? Do you think she could be easily lured by a stranger? Hmm…Not so funny, is it?

This is what we look like when we push our Heavenly Father away and insist on going our own way. We don’t want to listen to His voice, so instead we hear the voice of a stranger who wants to lead us into darkness!

In humility, young children look to their caretakers to meet their needs. That’s the way it is with God and His children. Jesus told a crowd who was questioning Him, “Unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of

By Polly Balint

heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven,” (Matthew 18:1-4).

Humble, dependent, child-like faith is mature faith that will keep us safe because we are listening to our Father’s voice and trusting Him to meet our every need. This is affirmed in Proverbs: “Whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm,” (Proverbs 1:33). Wow! Who wouldn’t want the freedom, vitality and joy of a child that only comes from wholeheartedly trusting her Father in heaven?

Elaine Federico (MA, NCC, LPC,) is a licensed professional counselor and founder of Riverstone Counseling Center in Canton. The center serves clients of all ages who are seeking counseling to help them better understand and cope with the different challenges and feelings they are experiencing personally in life. In some instances, clients may have a prior history of counseling or other treatment for specific diagnosed conditions. In other instances, clients may simply want help in identifying ways they can improve relationships with others.

At Riverstone Counseling Center, the counselors work with clients to understand their individual needs and to develop an appropriate wellness path together.

Common areas of specialty include academic underachievement; addiction; alcohol abuse; adoption; anxiety or fears; chronic pain or illness; coping skills; depression; divorce; emotional disturbance; infertility; loss or grief; parenting; peer relationships; self-esteem; self-harming; spirituality; and substance abuse.

Relationship is at the heart of Riverstone Counseling Center. Both counselors and clients will spend time together, learning about each other and becoming familiar with each other. Riverstone Counseling Center practices open communication. Typically, counselors will ask questions and allow clients to “fill in the blanks” for themselves. As clients feel comfortable with the process, they are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings more openly and deeply. Clients are welcome to ask counselors at any point in the sessions about their perspective and recommendations. Likewise, counselors share any personal insights they gain during the sessions — presenting their views in a direct but sensitive manner. This type of sharing and

limelight in the

communication is imperative to gaining insight and taking the first steps toward healing.

Counselors often ask clients to set personal goals for the therapeutic process as a way of evaluating “progress” from the weekly sessions. Clients are in complete control of the sessions, their goals and how the sessions progress — they do most of the “work” themselves! At Riverstone Counseling Center, our goal is to create a safe environment of mutual trust and respect, in which clients feel comfortable exploring sensitive areas of their life.

Riverstone Counseling Center is an in-network provider for Blue Cross/Blue Shield, CIGNA, AETNA, and Humana Military/TRICARE.

Please contact us to schedule a free 30-minute consultation so you can get started on the path to healing today! 132 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 102, Canton; (770) 213-3615, RiverstoneCounselingCenter.com

Camping/Fishing/Hiking

Providence Canyon, Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon” in Lumpkin, features 150-foot-deep gullies that were caused by poor farming practices in the 1800s. The canyon soil’s pink, orange, red and purple hues provide picturesque views for visitors to enjoy day hikes along three miles of trails or overnight camping trips on the seven-mile backcountry trail (pioneer and backcountry campsites). Pack your fishing gear and try your luck at reeling in largemouth bass, catfish and bream at Florence Marina State Park on the 45,000-acre Lake Walter F. George (also known as Lake Eufaula). Nearby Columbus offers a variety of sporting events, museums, entertainment and other attractions as well. GeorgiaStateParks.org/ProvidenceCanyon

Canoeing/Kayaking

The good news about Georgia’s rainy weather this year is that it has re-opened the Okefenokee Swamp to recreational canoeing, kayaking and other boating activities. Visitors can take guided tours out of the west entrance by Stephen C. Foster State Park staff, or rent canoes, kayaks or jon boats to adventure out on their own. The National Wildlife Refuge of the 402,000-acre Okefenokee Swamp provides up-close encounters with alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, red-cockaded woodpeckers and numerous other creatures. In nearby Fargo and Waycross, visitors can enjoy golf, a swimming beach and other activities at local state parks. Train lovers can enjoy passing the time watching trains come in and out of two different rail hubs in Waycross: the Historic Passenger Rail Depot and at the largest computerized CSX rail yard on the East Coast. Waycross also holds an annual festival for one of its famous hometown kids, the late singer-songwriter Gram Parsons. This year’s Gram Parsons Guitar Pull & Tribute Festival will be September 20-22. WaycrossTourism.com

Cycling

Named after the Silver Comet passenger train (1947-1969) and original freight rail line (1897-1903) over which it is constructed, Silver Comet Trail runs from northwest Georgia to the northeast Alabama state line, where it connects to the Chief Ladiga Trail. Construction began in 1998 in Smyrna, and this first section remains the busiest part of the trail today. The combined Silver Comet and Chief Ladiga trail length is estimated to be 94.5 paved miles — making it the longest paved trail in the United States. It is a popular attraction for cycling, jogging, walking, and roller blading. Pack a bag and set a daily goal to ride a different stretch of the trail from one town (or state) to another as you enjoy the trail’s beautiful colors this fall! SilverCometGa.com

Hiking/Camping

Cloudland Canyon State Park offers visitors both fantastic hiking and camping opportunities. Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, just west of LaFayette, the 3,488-acre park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek. Some elevations reach nearly 2,000 feet high. Visitors can hike five different trails, including the nine-mile Cloudland Connector Trail and two-mile Waterfalls Trail. Backpackers can enjoy camping in a hemlock grove on the two-mile Backcountry Loop. Overnight lodging options include tent camping, cottages near the canyon edge, and new yurts — small dwellings with a tent-like canopy top. GeorgiaStateParks.org/ CloudlandCanyon

Another great hiking spot is Dawsonville’s Amicalola State Park, which spans 829 acres and features the spectacular 729-foot Amicalola Falls — the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast. The park offers 12 miles of hiking trails, including an 8.5-mile trail leading to the southern end of the 2,175-mile Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain. In addition, Amicalola Falls provides excellent whitewater rafting opportunities. Overnight visitors can choose from the 56-room mountaintop lodge, the 20-room Hike Inn, cottages or campsites. Advance reservation is recommended for accommodations during peak leaf season. Plan time to tour Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery and the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. GeorgiaTrails.com/gt/Amicalola_Falls

Horseback Riding

Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to horsebacking, Sunny Farms North in historic Dahlonega is the perfect setting to enjoy an unforgettable riding experience in Georgia’s picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains this fall. The family-owned and operated horse farm caters to all riding skill levels, offering both self-guided trails and guided tours from knowledgeable staff. Spanning more than 250 acres, Sunny Farms North is open year-round. The farm also offers lessons, boarding and horses for sale. Stay the weekend at one of Dahlonega’s charming bed-and-breakfasts for your visit to local gold mines, wineries and quaint shops as well. SunnyFarmsNorth.com

What Every Woman Should Know

About GYN Cancer

By Northside Hospital Cancer Institute

More than 84,000 women living in the United States are diagnosed with a gynecologic (GYN) cancer — cervical, ovarian and endometrial cancer — each year. GYN cancer can occur at any age, but your risk for certain cancers actually increases as you age. So even if you’re beyond your “childbearing years,” it doesn’t mean you should stop seeing your gynecologist. Following is important information about three of the most common GYN cancers.

Cervical Cancer

Each year, approximately 12,000 American women will develop invasive cervical cancer. All women are at risk for getting cervical cancer, but it is most common in women over 30. Most cervical cancers are caused by the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus (HPV). For females ages 9 to 26, there is a vaccine that protects against HPV. Smoking, poor eating habits, a long history of oral contraceptive use or having a family history of cervical cancer also increase the risk of contracting cervical cancer. Early on, cervical cancer may not cause signs and symptoms. In its later stages, warning signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or pain during sexual intercourse. Although mortality rates have been in a steady decline since the use of the Pap test began, more lives could be saved with routine screenings. Beginning at age 21, women should have a Pap test every three years.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer, the most severe cancer that affects the female reproductive system, affects roughly 20,000 women each year. Known as the “silent” cancer because symptoms are often vague and dismissed as normal abdominal discomfort, ovarian cancer is rarely detected until it’s in an advanced stage, when it’s less treatable. Unfortunately, no screenings exist for the disease, but you can help protect yourself by knowing your family health history and recognizing symptoms. Warning signs include a persistent or worsening of abnormal bleeding or swelling; feelings

of fullness; discomfort in the pelvic region; pain during intercourse; or frequent urination.

Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer

Endometrial or uterine cancer is the most common GYN cancer in the United States. All women are at risk, but most cases occur in menopausal or postmenopausal women. Unfortunately, like ovarian cancer, no accurate screenings exist, so recognizing symptoms, such as postmenopausal bleeding, irregular vaginal discharge, or pain or pressure in the pelvis, is vital.

Northside Hospital Cancer Institute

As a leader in women’s health services, Northside diagnoses and treats more cases of GYN cancer than any other hospital in Georgia — leading the way in groundbreaking procedures for better outcomes and less-invasive treatments. Northside was the first hospital in Georgia to perform a robotic radical hysterectomy for cancer and ranks in the top 5 percent of all robotic GYN programs in the country. A dedicated team of GYN oncologists, surgeons and specialty trained oncology nurses provides patients with the highest level of expertise to diagnose, evaluate and treat GYN cancers. For more information on Northside’s cancer program, visit Northside.com/CancerInstitute.

By Catherine Groves

Given that this is the September issue, this month’s featured book selection is one of my favorites by Rosamunde Pilcher — appropriately titled “September.”

“September” is rich in characters, intense with life’s lessons, and full of different stories that build into a throbbing crescendo around a dance in September. Pilcher’s uncanny ability to involve so many characters, each with their own compelling story, into one epic tale is unmistakably genius.

The story takes place in Scotland, and Pilcher doesn’t leave readers’ imaginations to wonder. Her descriptive turns make everything real and alive — the fragrance of the heather, the dampness of the fog, the crackling of the fire, and the hills covered in colorful bloom. Pilcher brings it home with such lines as, “The deep blue of the skies was reflected in loch and river, and with the harvest safely in, the fields stood golden with stubble. Harebells grew in wayside ditches, and the scented heather, coming into full bloom, stained the hills with purple.”

With precision, Pilcher moves from character to character, capturing the spirit and mission of each: going to the September dance. Pandora, having left home more than 20 years earlier, makes her way back to Scotland and becomes the focal point of the involving plot. While Pandora may have left in the midst of scandal, she was remembered with such thoughts as, “Pandora was a life enhancer, an injector of vitality and laughter to the most stuffy of occasions.”

And then there is Archie, with whom readers quickly fall in love and ache for him to find the courage to heal his mental scars from the war so that he can find peace in his bedroom. Noel, from Pilcher’s bestseller, “The Shell Seekers,” returns with a surprising change in character. In his return in “September,” we find a man who is no longer comfortable with being shallow, selfish, and “living for the moment.” Noel, to his own great surprise, finds himself attracted to Alexa, a woman who before would never have met his criteria. Instead, he finds himself loving her wholesome goodness. How proud his mother would be if she could see. As the story unfolds, a variety of characters, ranging from the delightful to somewhat sinister, intertwine to create a fascinating tale of Scottish aristocracy.

Hard to put down and ever so compelling, “September” is a novel to be endeared by all. This is a story about coming home, forgiveness, growing old, being young — and very much about love.

First published in 1990 by St. Martin’s Press, Rosamunde Pilcher’s “September” can be found at most bookstores and online as an electronic book.

Your Employees Can Make or Break Your Business

By Nick Roper

Valuable employees are the backbone of any small business. The work completed by these employees is what sets a successful small business apart from an unsuccessful small business.

Employees also are the biggest expense of most companies, which makes it imperative to hire only those quality employees who pass a background check and drug screening. Your employees are also the face of your company. To ensure employees represent your company as professionally as possible, implement a dress code that requires employees wear a uniform and maintain a wellgroomed appearance. Employees who dress and behave poorly will give customers a negative image of your business — and directly impact your company’s success.

All companies should hold employee training sessions that cover everything from customer service to step-bystep instructions on how to complete certain job functions. You should also emphasize that no job is finished until each of the steps has been completed, including necessary paperwork. Again, walk employees through the proper way to complete all required paperwork.

Employee turnover is a common risk of small businesses. Maintaining quality standards and high expectations means hiring employees who likewise value working for the same company for many years rather than those who typically bounce from job to job. Dealing with constant employee turnover also puts stress on the other employees who are left to pick up the slack, as well as

involves time to interview, hire, and train new employees.

Small businesses should live by the old adage that “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” This is especially true for businesses with 20 or fewer employees. If one employee doesn’t pull his or her weight, that represents 5 percent of your staff that isn’t producing a profit for the company. To put that in perspective, let’s say that your company has a net profit of $100,000 at the end of the year; if you subtract 5 percent, that would result in a profit loss of $5,000 for the year. I feel confident in saying that no small business owner would like to throw 5 percent of his profits down the drain!

770-735-1136, MyAtlantaElectrician.net

Jason Liford is the executive chef at Downtown Kitchen and has been an integral part of the staff for nearly six years. Jason fell in love with cooking at the age of 16 and is a lifelong Cherokee County resident and graduate of Cherokee High School. He brings his love and passion for food to Downtown Kitchen and enjoys providing these seasonal recipes to the community. He hopes you enjoy them, too!

Ingredients

10 strips thick-cut bacon (chopped)

½ medium onion (roughly chopped)

2 cloves garlic (smashed)

½ cup jam (any jam of your choice will work)

¼ cup chicken stock

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh thyme

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation

Cook bacon in skillet to your preference, or until just starting to brown.

Remove bacon from skillet, leaving the rendered fat.

Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.

Mix all ingredients in food processor or blender and process to a nice and chunky consistency.

Grill your pork tenderloin to desired temperature. Top with bacon jam and enjoy!

Clubs & Organizations

Business Organizations

american business women’s association: 678-493-3618, Abwa.org

canton cherokee business and Professional women’s club: 770-345-1750

cherokee area business connection: 770-345-8687

cherokee business & Professional women: 770-345-1751

cherokee toastmasters: 770-712-4077, CherokeeToastmasters.com

new network of entrepreneurial women: 678-595-0344

Powercore: 404-572-1278

towne lake business association: 770-720-6558, Tlba.org

woodmont business club: WoodmontBusinessClub.com

woodstock business networking group: 770-591-7101

Charitable & Support Organizations

aa meetings:

antioch christian: 770-475-9628

canton First united methodist: 770-479-6961

aarP organization:

canton chapter: 770-479-5460

adopting Families group: 770-516-1340

adoption/infertility support group: 678-445-3131

alzheimer/dementia support group: 770-926-0119

american heart assoc. — cherokee division: 678-385-2013

breast cancer support group, drop-in: 404-843-1880

casa for children, inc.: Deidre Hollands, 770-345-3274, CasaCherokee.org

cherokee child advocacy council: 770-592-9779, CherokeeChildAdvocates.org

cherokee co. Family child care assoc.: Brenda Bowen, 770-926-8055

cherokee co. Foster & adoptive Parent association of ga: 770-378-0759, FosterOrAdopt.org

cherokee co. habitat for humanity: 770-345-1879

cherokee co. senior services: 770-345-5312

cherokee co. service league: 770-704-5991

cherokee co. special olympics: 770-517-7101

cherokee county Family Violence center: 770-479-1804

cherokee Fellowship of christian athletes: Bill Queen (404) 441-3508, CherokeeFCA.org

cherokee Focus: 770-345-5483, CherokeeFocus.org drug Free cherokee: Stacy Bailey, 770-345-5483, DrugFreeCherokee.org georgia animal Project: 770-704-PAWS, TheAnimalProject.org habitat for humanity north central ga: 770-345-1879, HabitatNCG.org hope center (hope for unplanned pregnancies): 770-924-0864, HopeCtr.com hospice advantage: 770-218-1997, HospiceAdvantage.com meals-on-wheels: 770-345-7440

moms club of canton (serving canton, ball ground, waleska and holly springs): West: MomsClubOfCantonWest.webs.com must ministries: 770-479-5397, MustMinistries.org narcotics anonymous: 770-720-4032

north georgia angel house, inc.: AngelHouseGA.com northside hospital cherokee auxiliary: 770-720-9559

Papa’s Pantry: 770-591-4730, PapasPantry.org safe kids of georgia in cherokee county: 678-493-4343, CherokeeSafeKids.org

Volunteer aging council: 770-345-7515

wellstar kennestone ostomy support group: 770-793-7171

young Peoples aa meeting: 770-479-2502

Civic Organizations

bridgemill-sixes service league: Marilyn Patouillet, 770-345-7941, BSSL.org

canton lions club: 678-224-7878, LionsOfCanton.org

canton optimist club: CantonOptimist.com

canton rotary club: 770-479-2101

cherokee county historical society: 770-345-3288, RockBarn.org

optimist club of laurel canyon: 678-493-9135

rotary club of cherokee county: 678-297-0154, GLopos@Bellsouth.net

rotary club of towne lake: 770-926-0105

sons of the american revolution: Cherokee Chapter, 770-410-0015, BTemple1@Bellsouth.net

Political Organizations

cherokee co. board of elections & registrations: 770-479-0407

cherokee county democratic Party: 770-345-3489, CherokeeDems.com

cherokee county republican Party: 678-809-1411, CherokeeCountyGOP.com

cherokee county republican women’s club: 678-520-2236, CCRWCGA.com

cherokee county school board: 770-479-1871

cherokee county young republicans: 770-926-9317, DeanC@mindspring.com

cherokee/Pickens libertarian Party: 770-345-4678, LPGeorgia.com/Cherokee

Recreation & Hobbies

canton moose Family center (bingo): 770-479-8300

christian authors guild: ChristianAuthorsGuild.org

cherokee amateur radio society: 770-928-8590, Cherokee-Ares.org/CCARS

cherokee amateur radio emergency services (skywarn storm spotters): 770-928-8590, Cherokee-Ares.org

cherokee arts center: 770-704-6244, CherokeeArts.org

cherokee community chorale: 678-439-8625, CherokeeCommunityChorale.org

cherokee county master gardeners: 770-479-0418

cherokee county saddle club: 770-757-2282, CherokeeSaddleClub.com

cherokee county social adventures group: www.TCCSAG.org

cherokee hiking club: 770-235-3655, Hiking_Fred@Hotmail.com

cherokee Photography club: CherokeePC.org

cherokee running club: 770-928-4239, 770-926-8513

cherokee senior softball association: CSSASoftball.com

cherokee tennis association: CherokeeTennis.com

crossfit workout of the day club: CrossFitGarage.com

Falany Performing arts center @ reinhardt university: 770-720-5558, Reinhardt.edu/FPAC

the Funk heritage center book club: 770-720-5969

north georgia driving club (sports car drivers): Bill Tracy, BillTracy4@Comcast.net