Canton Family Life 9-19

About this time last year, I did what some might consider a little silly, or for lack of a better description, a “midlife crisis” thing: I bought a motorcycle. Ruby was an impulse purchase, as I’d never driven a road bike before. I’d only ridden on one once or twice. We’ve had our differences from time to time, as I learned to work through the gears, accelerate as desired, safely navigate back roads, and pass through the occasional sudden storm. After spending many hours of quality time together, we both ride smoother with an occasional pulse quickening burst when appropriate.

“Do not grow old, no matter how long you live. Never cease to stand like children before the great mystery into which we were born.” – Albert Einstein

If Ruby is considered a midlife crisis purchase, then so be it. I’m happy to be halfway to a hundred this month. Security in maturity perhaps. On the road, all the little worries don’t seem to matter as much. Your closeness and personal involvement with what is within your reach and that which is imperative are what rises to the top of your thoughts.

“Age isn’t the act of losing our youth but a new chapter of strength and opportunity.” – Anne Friedan

The difference between aging and youth is that it becomes easier to say “yes” and even more simple to find the courage to say “no.” Often, you actually want to go to bed early, stay home, and sometimes miss the party. Social approval no longer drives you, and selfapproval takes the handlebars. You can wear the crazy clothes, speak your mind, and be a little more eccentric. You simply embrace who you are, and in turn, gain respect from the inner you and from those whom you choose to surround yourself with.

My favorite part of getting older is the capacity to love more people genuinely and to be genuinely loved more. The best we can do is to positively embrace what comes along with the hopeful spirit of a child. Never put an expiration date on your dreams and keep an eye out for blessings. My wish for you is to stay forever young, be gentle with yourself, and fill your days with life and laughter.

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER

Jack Tuszynski

Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITORIAL

Julie Senger

Julie@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Cyndi Braun ART

Laurie Litke

Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com

Mandy Marger

Mandy@FamilyLifePublications.com

SALES

Janet Ponichtera

Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Julia Aubin, Christopher Brazelton, Mary Kay Buquoi, James B. Depew, Joshua Fuder, Corey Harkins, Lisa-Marie Haygood, Ella Hope, Norman R. Hunt, Robert H. Logan, Tim Morris, Savanna Morrison, Vishant Nath, Michael Petrosky, Ellen Samsell Salas, Sen. Bruce Thompson, Farris Yawn, Jacqueline Yokley

Family Life Publishing Group, Inc. 630 East Main Street Canton, GA 30114 770-213-7095

FamilyLifePublications.com

Family Life publications have the largest monthly circulation of direct-mailed community magazines in our area. Canton Family Life is a monthly community magazine with a total print count of over 30,000, direct mailing over 28,000 copies to Canton, Sixes/BridgeMill, Holly Springs, Hickory Flat, and Waleska.

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. The cover and its accompanying magazine content are a paid advertisement. Canton Family Life magazine is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

© 2019 All rights reserved.

By

Why Should I Take My Child to a Pediatric Dentist?

dentists complete 2-3 years of specialized training during their pediatric dental residency (in addition to dental school). This rigorous training teaches dentists how to meet the specific oral health care needs of infants, children, and adolescents — including special needs patients.

young patients. From the dental hygienists to the X-ray technicians, the staff members are there because they love working with children each day.

[Healthy Life] Good dental hygiene can improve a child’s overall health, well-being, and happiness. It is very important that your child’s dentist work with you to keep his/her teeth structurally sound and disease-free. Choosing a dentist doesn’t have to be difficult or confusing. There are many reasons why a pediatric dentist may be best the best choice for your child.

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. Just as in medicine, pediatric

In addition to their specialized training, pediatric dental offices are designed specifically for children. If you have been to a pediatric dental office, or if you visit the website of a pediatric dental office, you will probably see what looks like a colorful, fun, appealing environment. Oftentimes, the office will be laid out differently than a general dental office. The equipment and the decor will usually be crafted to cater to children. Pediatric dental offices are designed to meet the comfort and needs of the patients who are treated there. Also, the staff at a pediatric dental office will be trained to work and interact with

Once you make your first appointment with your chosen pediatric dentist, you are on your way to ensuring your child’s oral health care. Establish a good relationship with the dentist by scheduling twice yearly hygiene check-ups. If your child needs additional dental treatment, follow up in a timely manner. These habits will go a long way toward keeping your child’s teeth healthy.

CoolSculpting 101

When Stubborn Fat Just Won’t Budge

By Drs. Petrosky, Harkins, and Depew

[HealthyLife] Both women and men are increasingly curious about CoolSculpting. If you’re considering this fat freezing treatment, you likely have a few questions about the reality behind the procedure.

CoolSculpting (cryolipolysis) is a nonsurgical body contouring procedure that safely freezes and destroys fat cells in localized areas without damaging surrounding tissue. These cells are naturally metabolized out of the body, reducing fat in targeted areas over the course of about three months. Ideal CoolSculpting candidates are at or near their target weight and are struggling with stubborn pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise.

The CoolSculpting procedure is FDA-cleared for the treatment of visible fat bulges under the chin and jawline, thighs, abdomen, flanks, back, as well as underneath the buttocks and upper arm. CoolSculpting is not a treatment for weight loss.

Fat cells freeze at a certain temperature. Once that happens, your body will naturally eliminate the dead cells in 2-6 months or more, resulting in up to 20-25% reduction of fat in the treated area. During treatment, the cooling applicator is applied to the specified area. You may experience sensations of pulling, tugging, mild pinching, intense cold, tingling, and cramping at the treatment site. These sensations subside as the area becomes numb. During the

treatment, you will be able to read, answer emails, or chat with a friend.

After the applicator is detached, your provider will do a brief massage on the area to break up the treated fat cells and enhance the fat reduction. You may experience some tingling, thawing, or redness. After that, you will be able to return to your normal activities immediately.

Results vary, but patients can generally expect to see a moderate slimming effect within the treated areas. Clothes fit better, look better, and feel better. You will likely start to notice results within a few weeks that will fully develop in two or three months.

Drs. Petrosky and Harkins are board-certified plastic surgeons, and Dr. Depew is a board-eligible plastic surgeon at Plastic Surgery Center of the South. 770-421-1242. PlasticSurgeryCenterOfTheSouth.net

Senator Speaks

MyL E E O

grandmother used to say, you can learn a lot about a person in an hour of unaware observation. Recently, my family took a seven-day cruise with friends, and since I equate lying next to the pool in the hot sun to being a slab of bacon cooking in a hot pan, I opted to use most of my spare time people watching.

On the first day, we headed to the dining hall for the dinner buffet. It was easy to be overwhelmed by all the options, but some people must have believed food rationing was about to occur. On this particular evening, I noticed many had loaded their plates as high as possible while nudging each other in line to get more. Others strategically positioned themselves at the carving/seafood stations to sample as they meandered around.

By Senator Bruce Thompson

The following day, I stepped into an elevator, and before long, so many passengers entered that the door wouldn’t close. I realize that the idea of personal space is foreign to some, but the crowded elevator suddenly felt very unsanitary, not to mention the interesting clothing (or lack thereof) some were wearing.

The next evening, I observed swarms of teenagers around the ship enjoying their freedom from parental observation. That sight brought back fond memories of when children were able to play outside or ride their bicycle to a friend’s house without fear. I thought how funny it is that we worry about children playing in the front yard, but we let our teens roam a ship with 7,000 strangers in the middle of the ocean.

On the final morning, breakfast time brought the entire trip into perspective. I noticed several senior citizens walking hand in hand, gazing out at the water. I thought perhaps they were reminiscing about all their experiences and the memories they had made together.

I recently heard a pastor say that it is not necessarily that we don’t know what we don’t know; it’s that we don’t do what we do know. Being on this ship reminded me that we often let fear rob us of the joy we have, as we walk through life together.

com

Baby’s Communication Milestones

[Healthy Life] Parents often wonder if their baby’s language development is on track. Many times, well- meaning pediatricians recommend a “wait and see” approach for late talking toddlers, when current research clearly demonstrates the benefits of early therapeutic intervention. Here are detailed skills to look for within your baby’s age range to know when it is appropriate to seek help from a speech-language pathologist.

9-12 Months

By Jacqueline Yokley, M.

Responds to request to “come here,” responds to “no” most of the time, recognizes the names of common items (e.g., eyes, phone, key), recognizes familiar people and action verbs, responds to simple requests (e.g., “Give to Mommy.” or “More juice?”), follows one-step commands with gestures, relates “Mama” and “Dada” with the caregivers, babbling now includes repetitive syllables like “buhbuhbuh,” uses 2-6 common words like “hi” or “Dada” meaningfully.

12-18 Months

Points to pictures in a book when you name them and can point to a few body parts when asked; understands simple questions (e.g., “Where’s the bunny?”); follows one-step commands without gestures; imitates others using gestures, speech, and noises; asks two-word questions like “Where ball?” or “What’s that?”; enjoys (repetitively) listening to simple stories, singing songs, and saying rhymes; able to follow simple commands; uses objects appropriately in play; uses 7-10 words confidently; combines two words in other ways (e.g., “Birdie go.” “No doggie.” “More push.”); has a vocabulary of at least 10-50 words; speech is typically understood 25% of the time to an unfamiliar listener.

18-24 Months

Responds to yes/no questions and simple “wh” questions (who, what, when, where, why), follows two-step directions (e.g., “Pick up the train and put it in the toy box.”), uses 50-100 words meaningfully, labels familiar objects by name, combines words into short sentences, identifies self by name, says “no,” and talks to self while playing. By 24 months, a child’s speech should be understood by an unfamiliar listener 50-75% of the time.

Jacqueline Yokley is a speechlanguage pathologist at In Harmony Pediatric Therapy, 9880 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock. 770-687-2542. InHarmonyPediatricTherapy.com

Calendar

6Canton Main Street First Friday — Head to downtown Canton for live music by Departure (Journey tribute band), car shows, food trucks, local shopping, and all that the city has to offer. 6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. Facebook.com/CantonGaFirstFriday

SEPTEMBER

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8th Annual Stand Up for Stand Down — Toiletry and hygiene items will be collected to fill “comfort bags” for homeless veterans who attend Stand Down events throughout north and central Georgia. Drop off your donations at any Georgia Cancer Specialists clinic. A list of locations can be found at GaCancer. com. Items include toothbrushes, combs, hairbrushes, feminine products, and travel/sample sizes of shampoo, conditioner, hand sanitizer, body wash/ soap, deodorant, body powder, and antiseptic cream/ lotion. 770-8645347. Facebook. com/SU4SD

ONGOING

Canton Farmers Market — Each Saturday morning through 10/12, 9:00am-1:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. Facebook.com/ CantonGAFarmersMarket

Waleska Farmers Market — Each Thursday morning through November 1, 9:00am-6:00pm, Heritage Fellowship Church, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton. 404-805-7468. CityOfWaleska.com

Farmers Market at River Church — Each Tuesday afternoon through November, 2:00-6:00pm, River Church, 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. 770-5980048. Facebook.com/Farmers-Marketat-River-Church-390585127816595

September Is Learn About Piano Month — Celebrate an instrument that continues to be classical, contemporary, and flexible at the same time; an instrument that contributed enormously to the development of music as we know it and continues to play a key role in modern music.

Open Mic Night — On the first Friday of each month, local artists showcase their talents in Canton’s only true music venue, the Listening Room at The Oak House. 7:00-9:00pm, The Oak House, 151 E. Marietta Street, Canton. 678-653-6625. TheOakHouse.com

4th Friday Open Mic With Cherokee Music Center — Musicians are invited to perform at this fun event. Music lovers are invited to come out and support live, local music. 6:00pm, Food Court Park, 288 Gilmer Ferry Road, Ball Ground. 678-4545075.

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9/11 Heroes Run — This run activates and unites communities to honor the sacrifices of heroes from September 11 and the wars since, to include veterans, active duty, first responders, and families of the fallen. The 9/11 Heroes Run 5K +1-mile fun run/walk welcomes runners, ruckers, and walkers of all levels and all ages, volunteers, friends, and family. It is not about fitness level or experience. It’s about activating, uniting, and honoring our heroes. 8:00am, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 911HeroesRunCantonGa.ItsYourRace.com

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CASA Volunteer Training — Change a child’s story by learning to volunteer as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) for children in foster care. Evening classes are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 6:00-9:00pm, The Children’s Haven, 1083 Marietta Highway, Canton. Info@CherokeeChildrensHaven.org. CherokeeChildrensHaven.org

6-25

Etowah River Woodturners Exhibit — Enjoy works created by local artists in this unique medium. A kick-off reception will be held on 9/6 from 6:00-8:00pm. TuesdayFriday 11:00am-5:00pm and Saturday 12:00-5:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244. CherokeeArts.org

7

Cherokee Music Teachers Association Fall Meeting — All who are interested in CMTA are welcome to attend. The year’s events will be discussed. A brunch potluck will precede the meeting. 10:00am, R.T. Jones Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Linda@lokey.net. CherokeeMTA.org

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Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group — Meet up with fellow caregivers of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients on the third Monday of each month for support and to learn caregiving strategies. 10:00am, Hickory Flat Church Administrative Building (to the left of the church), 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton. Fritz Kupsky 678-471-6676 or Rich Seibert 770-712-2961.

Free CPR/AED Certification Class — On the last Saturday of each month, this fundraiser benefits the Hickory Flat Volunteer Association. Donations are appreciated ($75 value). Preregistration is required. 9:00am12:00pm, Cherokee County Fire Station 23, 7625 Vaughn Road, Canton. 770-406-6657. HFVA.org/ Class-Registration.php

Canton City Council Meeting — On the first and third Thursday of each month, City Council holds meetings, which are open to the public. 6:00pm, City Hall, 110 Academy Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. CantonGa.gov

Dumpster Day — On the first Saturday of each month, City of Canton residents may dispose of trash, unwanted items, up to 10 tires per resident, and recycle many electronics FREE of charge. Please bring proof of residency when dropping off items. Visit the website for a full list of acceptable items. 8:00am-12:00pm, Municipal Court Building, 151 Elizabeth Street, Canton. 770-704-1554. CantonGa. gov

Senior Lunch & Learn by Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together)

— On the third Thursday of each month, this FREE community program is designed to educate seniors on a variety of topics including identity theft, phone scams, housing options, in-home care, advanced directives, and problems associated with aging. 12:00-1:00pm, Heritage Fellowship, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton. Please RSVP for lunch 770-479-9415 or JBishop@heritagecanton.com. HeritageCanton.com

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Mosaic Jewelry Workshop — Learn this artistic technique to create lovely jewelry. 12:30-4:30pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-704-6244. CherokeeArts.org

14 Songwriter Session — The Oak House and Cherokee Music Center present local songwriters, featuring Barb Carbon, Chloe Litten, Sandra Porter, Amanda Roark, and Debra Lynn Rodriguez. Come discover your new favorite artist! 6:00-10:00pm, The Oak House, 151 E. Marietta Street, Canton. 678-653-6625. TheOakHouse.com

14 A Night With Henry Cho — Enjoy an evening of laughs with this well-known, nationally touring comedian. For tickets, visit ComedyByJr. tix.com. 6:00pm and 8:30pm, Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-0755. CantonTheatre. com

and veterans of Cherokee County. Stay and eat, or pick up and go. RSVP the location, so the amazing chefs can be prepared for all who come to support. 11:30am-1:00pm, The Lodge at BridgeMill, 10451 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. VACCherokeeGa.org

25 Watercolor Workshop — Perfect your watercolor painting technique in this fun class. 1:00-4:30pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770704-6244. CherokeeArts.org

27-10/6

The Crucible — Reinhardt University presents Arthur Miller’s classic play. The Crucible takes place in 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts, during the Salem Witch Trials. Friday and Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 3:00pm, Reinhardt University Theater, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. 770-720-9167. Reinhardt. edu

20 Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) Fundraising Luncheon — Support VAC programs and get a wonderful lunch for only $5. Bring a friend, coworker, family member, or yourself, and enjoy a tasty lunch while supporting the seniors

21

28 Little River Kayak Run —

This kayak run starts at Olde Rope Mill Park and finishes at the Little River Marina. After the run, kayakers will be shuttled back to their vehicles. $40 with kayak rental, $15 if you bring your own kayak. 8:00-11:00am, Olde Rope Mill Park, 690 Olde Rope Mill Park Road, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. CRPA.net

OCTOBER

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Canton Main Street First Friday — Head to downtown Canton for live music by Rumours (Fleetwood Mac tribute band), car shows, food trucks, local shopping, and all that the city has to offer. 6:00-9:00pm, Cannon Park, 130 E. Main Street, Canton. 770-704-1500. Facebook.com/ CantonGaFirstFriday

5

Next Step Ministries’ Run, Walk, or Roll 5K and Fun Run — Presented by PowerSecure, this race is a Peachtree qualifier/USATF certified. With your participation and support, you will help Next Step Ministries further its mission of providing life-changing services to exceptional individuals with cognitive and physical challenges through programs that reinforce their inclusive place in society. 7:00am, First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock. Active. com/woodstock-ga/running/distancerunning-races/run-walk-or-roll-5k-2019

Concert in the Park — The City of Ball Ground presents the T. James Band; enjoy covers of everything from Merle Haggard to Mother’s Finest in this FREE event. 7:00pm, City Park, 177 Old Dawsonville Road, Ball Ground. Facebook.com/BallGroundMainStreet

5 Touch-a-Truck — This is a FREE event for your children. Let them put their imaginations in gear and go! Kids will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of their favorite vehicles, learn from vehicle operators, and meet some of their hometown heroes. 10:00am-2:00pm, Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-924-7768. LCollett@ cherokeega.com. CRPA.net

28-29

35th Annual Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival — Presented by the Service League of Cherokee County, this juried show features original, creative, handmade work by artisans from all over the region. The event, which takes place rain or shine, will have live music and dancing as well as a children’s area. Admission for adults and children ages 11+ is a $5 donation. All proceeds benefit needy children in Cherokee County. 10:00am-5:00pm, Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770704-5991. ServiceLeague.net

Sept. 28

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LIBRARY EVENTS

SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

BALL GROUND 435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025

HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565

R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090

September 5, 6:00pm, Ball Ground

Discover the many realms of the Dungeons & Dragons world. No experience required.

Longtime player Stephen Lawrence will lead and teach. Materials are provided.

DIY INDOOR HERB GARDENS

September 6, 5:00pm, R.T. Jones

Create your own indoor herb garden with the provided recycled materials (3 plants maximum per person). This is for ages 9+.

LEARNING WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

September 9, 6:00pm, Hickory Flat

Discover how to support your child’s learning and overall wellness using essential oils.

HICKORY FLAT BOOK CLUB

September 11, 10:00am, Hickory Flat

Become part of the brand new monthly book club at this location. This month’s selection is A Woman in the Window A.J. Finn.

S.M.A.R.T GOAL SETTING AND DIY VISION BOARD

motor skills and cognitive growth. This is for ages 5 and younger.

GERONIMO STILTON PARTY

September 17, 3:30pm, R.T. Jones

Kids are invited to celebrate Geronimo Stilton with fun activities, cheesy snacks, and a cool craft. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

TEEN MANGA CLUB

September 17, 5:00pm, Hickory Flat

Read and discuss different manga series and related topics, draw characters, and compete in manga/animeinspired group games. This is for teens in grades 6-12.

WALKING TACOS

September 19, 5:00pm, Hickory Flat

Make your own individual taco treats. This is for teens in grades 6-12.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS

September 21, 12:30pm, R.T. Jones

September 16, 5:00pm, R.T. Jones

Learn how to set S.M.A.R.T goals and create your very own vision board. Materials are provided. This is for ages 16+.

THE CANTON ECLECTIC READERS

September 16, 6:00pm, R.T. Jones

This month’s selection is The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women by Kate Moore.

SEPTEMBER SENSORY PLAY

September 17, 11:00am, Ball Ground

It’s Sensory September! Little ones can play and explore at their own pace. Water bead bins, scent stations, and other engaging types of play provide tons of fun while supporting

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5

Take a seat at the table, grab some dice, and step into the boots of a hero for this monthly D & D game. D & D beginners as well as other tabletop games and gamers are also welcome. Materials are provided, or you may bring your own. This is for ages 12+.

SEPTEMBER SLIME

September 25, 11:00am, Ball Ground

Have fun, get messy, and learn how to make your very own slime. Materials are provided. This is for ages 6+; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is suggested.

TRUE CRIME BOOK CLUB

September 25, 6:30pm, R.T. Jones

Channel your inner sleuth by joining the True Crime Book Club. This month’s selection is In Cold Blood by Truman Capote.

AUTUMN LUMINARIES

September 27, 4:00pm, Ball Ground

Celebrate the first week of fall by making your very own Mason jar luminary to light the night. Materials will be provided; bring your autumnal spirit and creativity. This is for ages 6+; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

16th Annual Autumn Fest — Join the City of Holly Springs in welcoming fall. This event is fun for the entire family and FREE to enter, park, and enjoy the kids’ zone Barrett Park will be filled with more than 80 arts and crafts vendors, an entertainment stage featuring local dance and vocal groups, a kids’ zone with games and activities, and food trucks. 10:00am-5:00pm, Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us

5

Great Lake Allatoona Clean-Up — You can make a difference! Help preserve the wonderful resource that is Lake Allatoona. 8:30am. For more information and to register, visit LakeAllatoonaAssoc.com/The_Great_ Allatoona_Clean_Up

5 Writers in the Round — Singer/ songwriters are invited to share their craft with other local musicians and music lovers. 7:00-9:00pm, Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. 770-7046244. CherokeeArts.org

10 Encompass Ministries Presents A Night on the Town —Enjoy a silent auction and live music by the Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos. Event benefits Papa’s Pantry. Tickets are $100 per couple. 6:30-10:00pm, Northside Cherokee Hospital Conference Center at the Bluffs, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. 770-591-4730. PapasPantry.org

Childhood Self-Esteem Development

By Mary Kay Buquoi, Ed.S.

[Academic Life] Self-esteem begins with building trust. Parents can build trust with infants by meeting their needs in a timely fashion. When parents respond to a child’s cry, they are showing the child that he/she is worthy of care and love. When parents meet needs consistently, the infant trusts that he/she is worthy, therefore building self-esteem.

Toddlers (18-36 months)

It is important to continue building trust into the toddler phase. Self-esteem comes from the picture the child has of himself as someone who can do things. Toddlers believe they can accomplish certain tasks, and supporting their independence builds confidence that they can succeed. Offer your child activities that lead to success. Toddlers are very successful at self-care activities such as getting dressed, picking up toys, and helping around the house, but they also enjoy new activities. When planning your day, find ways for your toddler’s involvement to be important.

Preschoolers (36 months-5 years)

A preschooler’s self-esteem is all about supported choices. Unlike the toddler phase when choices are made from selected options, a preschool child’s actions are the choice. Preschool children are attracted to specific activities such as building blocks or art. When parents support these activity choices, the child interprets this as, “If my choice was supported, I am good because my choice was good.” Consistent support will lead to the child’s trust in his own decision making, which builds self-esteem.

Pre-K/Kindergarteners (4-5 years)

Pre-K and kindergarten children build self-esteem through skill mastery. You may see your pre-K child go back to old familiar activities or repeat activities. This process of experiencing past successes builds confidence. Ask your children open-ended questions to find out what they know and what they are thinking about their own activity. After your children display their knowledge, ask “What if?” questions to draw out the next level of curiosity. Social skill success begins to play an important role in self-esteem. Offer opportunities for new social opportunities in anticipation of the next step to kindergarten or first grade.

Thousands of Educators Gather for “Ed Talks”

Nationally renowned educator, speaker, and Bold School author Weston Kieschnick shares his ideas for building positive relationships with students.

Before the school year began, Cherokee County School District educators gathered together as a whole for the first time in 26 years.

Nearly 3,000 educators, administrators, and other staff attended the first “CCSD Ed Talks” professional development session. The two-hour program, entitled “A Celebration of Teaching and Learning,” included brief remarks by Superintendent Dr. Brian V. Hightower and a keynote address by nationally renowned educator, speaker, and Bold School author Weston Kieschnick. Both spoke about the importance of relationships and social and emotional learning (SEL).

Dr. Hightower said the national movement in support of SEL is exciting and inspiring. Students’ emotional and mental health and well-being should be valued as much as their academic success.

“When I was a teacher, it was all about ‘teaching to the whole child,’” he said, noting that public education then was overtaken by demands for more and more testing and increased pressure to improve those results. “We’re talking about the whole child again, and it’s so awesome. Kids are not data points. Our kids are so much more.”

Kieschnick, who taught high school for 15 years before beginning his full-time career as an author and speaker, emphasized the importance of building positive relationships with students to encourage success. As part of his session, he outlined 12 classroom strategies and encouraged interaction among audience members.

“Our character manifests itself in the words we say to kids,” said Kieschnick. “There is an incredible amount of power in a single sentence.”

Cherokee HS Student Ranked Nationally for Career Skills

Cherokee High School rising senior Austin Ledbetter competed at the SkillsUSA National contest this summer in Louisville, Kentucky, and now is ranked No. 5 in the nation in collision repair technology. Students who earned gold at their state SkillsUSA competition were invited to the national event to test their handson career skills.

Austin, who is a student of Cherokee HS automotive teacher Mike Hagan, prepared for the competition throughout the spring with training support from various local shops and Matt Beard of the Metro Atlanta Automobile Association.

Contestants must demonstrate their ability to perform tasks set by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation including metal straightening, attachment methods, plastic repair, and structural analysis. They are judged on overall appearance of the finished product, speed, and proper safety practices. Students also complete written tests on estimating, structural analysis, and ASE knowledge, as well as fill out a job application, present a resume, and participate in mock interviews.

After graduation, Austin plans to attend Universal Technical Institute, for which he already has earned scholarships, and then pursue a career in the collision repair industry.

Disney Movie Marathon Comes to Canton Theatre

Can’t make it to Disney World for fall break? Enjoy a marathon of all your favorite Disney movies with showings at 10:00am and 2:00pm. Each day will feature a special “royal guest,” who will be available for a meet-and-greet and photos.

Sept. 23 • Moana

Sept. 24 • Beauty and the Beast

Sept. 25 • Aladdin (live action)

Sept. 26 • The Little Mermaid

Day-of-show tickets to individual films are $3 and go on sale one hour before showtime at the historic Canton Theatre box office (171 E. Main Street). Concessions will also be available. All tickets are general admission, and seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis. For more information, call 770-704-0755.

Community

CCSD Earns State Award for Outstanding Service to Special Needs Students

Heritage Packs a Punch to Hunger at

Hasty ES

The cashier asked, “You hungry?” I was used to the question. After all, both shopping carts were overflowing with SpaghettiOs and applesauce. She looked both curious and concerned.

“Actually, my church donates all this food to kids in a backpack program at Hasty Elementary,” I said. As she began counting the boxes of macaroni and cheese, she wanted to know more. “That’s great! But can’t they get food from other places?”

I thought about it a moment. “Well, you’re right,” I said. “But many families don’t have access to good transportation, so they can’t drive to pick up the food. And even if they could, most places are closed after their parents get off work. This way, we put food directly into the hands of children, and it’s all easy for them to cook by themselves on the weekends when they don’t get school lunches.”

I couldn’t believe what happened next. The cashier took out a $20 bill from her pocket, handed it to me, and said, “What a wonderful thing you’re doing! I was a foster kid in a family of seven, and I know this would have a made a huge difference in my life. I hope this money helps.” And I know it did.

If you can contribute food or money to the Hasty Elementary backpack food program, or if you would like to volunteer, please contact Justin Bishop at Heritage Fellowship 770-479-9415 or JBishop@heritagecanton.com.

CCSD Adaptive Technology (AT) specialist Hollis Grabrovac and Debbie Brinneman, retired AT support, were presented with the Georgia Department of Education’s Excellence in AT Service Delivery Award at its summer IDEAS Conference.

The award recognizes an organization, local education agency, or local school for excellence in coordinating AT services, innovation in development and implementation, and lasting impact on the students served.

CCSD STEM Grows With 3-Year Discovery Partnership

The Cherokee County School District, already recognized nationally for its commitment to STEM education, now is working with Discovery Education, part of the same company as the Discovery TV network, so its classroom resources and professional development for teachers can enhance lessons and incorporate more real-world learning experiences.

For the kickoff event, Dr. Cindy Moss, the Discovery Education’s vice president of global STEM initiatives, led a crowd of CCSD teachers, administrators, and school partners from STEM businesses and organizations in hands-on activities to better understand what the company will deliver to students.

“We want our kids to become experts, to develop creative problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, as well as collaboration and other key soft skills, and Discovery Ed offers it all with an outstanding reputation,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower.

The partnership’s benefits include Discovery Ed curriculum and other instructional resources, 15 days of professional development, and 10 days of coaching for the teachers and administrators at CCSD’s middle schools and four of its STEM academy elementary schools.

Hightower said he envisions the knowledge and skills gained by teachers through this partnership will spread districtwide, much as how the STEM academies’ teacher lesson plans and best practices have been shared to the benefit of all students.

Cherokee County Investigator Honored With Statewide Award

Dan Combs, an investigator for the Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office, was recently named Investigator of the Year for Division 2 by the District Attorneys’ Association of Georgia. Combs was one of three investigators from across the state who were honored at the recent Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council (PAC) of Georgia annual summer conference.

“These individuals serve our justice system with dignity, honor, and respect each and every day. We are extremely proud of their hard work and dedication to the prosecution profession,” said PAC Executive Director Pete Skandalakis.

Currently assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit in the District Attorney’s Office, Combs focuses solely on cases involving intimate partner violence and other serious family violence felonies. The unit handles cases ranging from strangulation to malice murder. Combs has 20 years of experience in law enforcement. He has been with the District Attorney’s Office for six years.

“Dan is a crucial part of our Domestic Violence Unit,” said Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace. “Besides being an extremely experienced investigator, Dan consistently goes above and beyond to ensure justice for our victims.”

The Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia (PAC) is the overarching judicial branch government agency supporting Georgia prosecutors and their staff, which includes 49 district attorney offices (which handle primarily felony cases) and 65 solicitor-general offices (which handle only misdemeanor cases).

of the Year Dan Combs with Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace at the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia annual summer conference.

Community

Cherokee County DA’s Office Welcomes New Chief ADA

The Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office recently welcomed Susan K. Treadaway as its new chief assistant district attorney.

Treadaway comes to the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office with more than 15 years of prosecution and management experience, including 11 years in the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, where she held positions as senior assistant district attorney and, most recently, chief assistant district attorney. During her time in Cobb County, she also served as an assistant supervisor of the Special Victims’ Unit, which prosecuted cases involving physical and sexual abuse against children and sexual abuse against women.

Before her work in Cobb County, Treadaway served four years as an assistant district attorney in Cherokee County under District Attorney Garry Moss.

“I am excited to be back in Cherokee County, where I can be part of law enforcement in a growing community that still has small town charm,” said Treadaway. “I look forward to partnering with law enforcement to ensure justice is served here.”

Chief Judge Ellen McElyea swears in Susan K. Treadaway as District Attorney Shannon Wallace watches.

Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace said she chose Treadaway as chief assistant district attorney because of her tremendous experience both inside of Cherokee County as well as in the large metro Atlanta county of Cobb.

“Susan Treadaway is a phenomenal prosecutor who has the perfect blend of both courtroom and management experience in a large metro Atlanta district attorney’s office. She brings a wealth of experience in handling serious violent felonies, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to Cherokee County,” said Wallace.

CCSD’s

Dr. Christian Kirby Wins Principal of the Year

The Georgia PTA awarded Cherokee County School District’s Dr. Christian Kirby, principal of Ball Ground ES STEM Academy, its top title for school leaders, which was presented at the organization’s annual summer conference. Kirby was also recognized by the Cherokee County School Board and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower at a school board meeting.

“Meaningful parent and community engagement is critical to the success of our students, and we’re so proud to see Dr. Kirby recognized for his dedication to this mission,” Dr. Hightower said. “Ball Ground Elementary School STEM Academy is the heart of its community, and we appreciate everything Dr. Kirby does to ensure the community knows that heart is open and welcoming.”

The Service League of Cherokee County’s inaugural Golfing Fore! the Children tournament was a great success. With 109 golfers and numerous event sponsors, more than $18,000 was raised for underprivileged children during the event held at Woodmont Golf Club.

Money raised through Service League’s fundraising events provides needy families in Cherokee County with day-to-day necessities such as food, clothing, dental care, eyeglasses, medical care, rental and utilities assistance, scholarships, and much more.

The 2020 Golfing Fore! the Children tournament is set to take place June 15 at Eagle Watch Golf Club. For more information about participating next year as a golfer or a sponsor, please email ServiceLeagueGolfTournament@gmail.com or ServiceLeagueSponsors@gmail.com, or visit ServiceLeague.net.

Transitional Seasonal Decorating

By Ella Hope

[Home Life] Ever wondered what makes a home “feel” a certain way instead of just “look” a certain way? With autumn, which begins in late September, comes a distinct vibe in the air in addition to the colorful changes and cooler temps Mother Nature

brings. During this time of year, interior decorating should engage your senses as well.

What are you going to see, feel, hear, and smell in a room? Also, just as your fall wardrobe transitions to jeans and longsleeved tops as the foundation for a layered look with the additions of a jacket and scarf, your home decor should also have layers. In order to engage the senses and create layers, switch to thicker, textured fabric selections on your pillows, drape a chunky blanket at the corner of your bed, bundle a cozy plaid throw on the arms of chairs and sofas, burn warm scented candles, and add in fall accessories as well as warm colors.

Include natural elements such as leaves, acorns, branches, pomegranates, bark, moss, mini pumpkins, quail eggs, or feathers, tucked in wherever you can. Add a cookbook or two with pretty pictures and

hearty recipes to your coffee table stack. Also, have decorative trays, candlesticks, vintage dough bowls, tureens, pedestals, vases or other neutral decorative items on hand to easily decorate and transition between autumn and the upcoming holiday season. You can keep these items in place and simply switch out the accents. For example, you can use the same pedestal base but swap your autumn candle ring and pumpkin spice scented candle for an evergreen candle ring and Frasier Fir scented candle, or you can trade out summer’s cotton stems in a vase for branches with colorful leaves, and then as December approaches, switch the branches to twigs and red berries. The options are endless, but the idea is to have fun and engage the senses.

and owner of Southernite Interiors, 196 North Street, Canton. 678-880-6357. SoutherniteInteriors.com

Book Review

BY FARRIS YAWN

In author W.R. Painter’s book, Blue Birds of War, he offers a raw and honest account of his over 37-year career with the Air Force and the Department of Defense. He served two tours in Vietnam, participated in the Kosovo Airlift and Desert Storm, and participated in missions throughout Central and South America.

Painter does not hold back when describing the horrible things he saw and does not gloss over his own actions in combat. He also shares the lighter side of military life with anecdotes from his years flying all over the world.

Here, Painter describes where he got the title for his memoir:

“I had a vision, and in this vision, I saw the devil, as he released thousands of tiny bluebirds. They were all sent to cover up and distract God’s all-seeing eye from the truth of his evil, the slaughter, the butchery, and all the horrible things man is doing to one another in the name of war. All to camouflage with their beauty and distract his attention with their song.”

Unfortunately, Painter did not live to see his book in print. He succumbed earlier this year to the effects of the Agent Orange he was exposed to during his service in Vietnam. His family was determined to honor his memory by making sure his story was told in his own words.

Anyone who has served will recognize themselves and their comrades in this book, and those who were not able to serve can get a better understanding of what men and women like W.R. Painter did for us and for our country.

COVER STORY

By Ellen Samsell Salas

“We’re Cherokee’s Firm”

“I try to remember that the most important thing to our clients is knowing someone with experience is working to resolve their issue.”

—Daran Burns, founder of Burns Law Group

As the lead attorney of the firm he established in 1993 in downtown Canton, Burns is passionate about taking care of clients and achieving the best possible outcomes for them.

“What’s essential is not just understanding our clients’ legal needs but also learning their personal ones,” Burns said. “Our clients come to us in times of crisis. They need to know someone is fighting for them, and they’re not in it alone.”

Crises in family and criminal law can be the most devastating events people will ever face. Assisting Burns in serving clients is an experienced team of three other attorneys: Laura Hoskins and Andrew Weegar handle most of the family law cases, while Susan Zereini focuses on criminal cases.

Their efforts are complemented by three paralegals: Traci Lingefelt, Madeline Kite, and Lorinda Green. Firm manager, Sheree Ramsey, and administrative assistant, Elizabeth MacMaster, ensure that clients’ needs are addressed promptly.

Teamwork Works for Clients “Together, our team brings over 100 years of legal expertise to each of the cases we are retained to handle. Teamwork is a key facet of our firm’s effectiveness,” Burns said.

“Laura and I draw off each other’s experiences, bouncing ideas off each other, oftentimes coming up with creative, sometimes novel, solutions,”

Weegar added. “Clients are getting the advantage of combined experience and input on their case, not just the lead attorney.”

According to Zereini, “In the criminal defense arena, teamwork is especially important in making the process as easy and effective as possible for the client. One attorney can’t do it alone.”

“I love when a client walks in, and there is a cohesive group reaching toward the same goal: to provide excellent legal service, but also to help people in distress,” Burns reiterated. “Because we’re a team, someone is always available,” Burns assured. “Our clients can always reach a person who knows about them and their case.”

“Clients’ work schedules can sometimes limit their ability to meet during the day. Therefore, I make time available for night and weekend appointments,” Hoskins explained. “Meeting my clients’ needs is a small part of the service that I am thrilled to provide. Often,

an emergency requires me to work weekends, and I am happy to do that.”

Listening Is Key

Whether the focus is family or criminal law, the firm associates agree that listening to each client is essential, hearing their goals, fears, and hopes.

“It’s all about developing a relationship with each client and understanding his or her needs, which builds trust. It’s our job to help them walk through this process,” Burns said. “We use our knowledge and experience to prepare our clients for the road ahead.”

“We’re especially good at addressing people’s personal issues and goals versus taking a cookie-cutter approach,” Zereini added, “listening to their needs then developing an action plan.”

Experience Matters

Invaluable to clients is the experience and know-how the attorneys bring to their cases.

“The secret is to know what the case needs legally, to stand up for someone, and to protect their rights,” Burns explained. “Clients need someone who understands that there are many avenues to get to the same result, but we must customize our approach.”

“We don’t force clients into one way of moving forward,” Hoskins noted. “We give the client options on how to proceed, explaining the pros and cons of each approach. Often, Andrew and I listen to a client’s case facts, offering numerous options on how to proceed.”

With 13 years of experience as a prosecutor and six years as a defense attorney, Zereini said she has the advantage of seeing cases from “both sides of the aisle.”

“I can educate my clients as to the strengths and weaknesses of their case; I can anticipate the arguments against them,” Zereini stated.

Being local and having tried cases against other local attorneys often benefits the firm’s clients. “We know their tactics, we know what to anticipate, so we can know how to move forward,” Burns assured.

Having their office steps from the courthouse in the heart of the Cherokee County legal world means that, sometimes, difficult problems can be settled through one-on-one contact without having to litigate.

“When I need something from an attorney, I often go talk to them personally. You can’t do that in downtown Atlanta or even in Woodstock,” Burns expressed.

“We’re Cherokee County’s Firm”

When he tried a case in Canton in the early 1990s, Burns fell in love with the city and Cherokee County. Immediately, he knew that he wanted to make Canton his home and the site of his law practice.

“We feel very connected to this county, and our excellent working relationship with the district attorney’s office, the solicitor general’s office, judges, and local law enforcement benefits our clients,” Burns said. “It’s about trust. I

need to be able to trust what they say and vice versa.”

“We’re Cherokee’s firm,” emphasized Burns. “If you have a problem in Cherokee, we’re here for you. Whatever the best outcome can be, we won’t stop till we get it. You’ll be glad you hired Burns Law Group to fight your battle.”

The Importance of Learning

By Lisa-Marie Haygood

CPR

[Academic Life] Could you give effective CPR right this minute if someone’s life depended on it? If the answer is “maybe,” or even “no,” it is important to find a course and learn or take a refresher to be certain you are up-to-date on the latest techniques.

I spent my summers in college working for the University of Georgia at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center. I was a camp counselor, and because we watched children swimming in the pool, canoeing, or sailing, we were required in our lifeguard certification to learn CPR. I recall how silly it seemed shaking a mannequin and shouting “Annie, Annie are you OK? You — dial 911!”

It was not silly at all in the early morning hours at my home when my husband stopped breathing after a massive heart attack, and I had to dial 9-1-1 and begin

CPR on him. I was thankful I took the time to learn such a valuable lifesaving technique, and it came back — just like riding a bicycle. When I learned CPR 30 years ago, we did chest compressions and administered breaths. Today’s techniques focus on the compressions and offer mouth guards and other options, so you do not to have to make intimate contact with a stranger or worry about vomit or other secretions around the mouth.

Time is incredibly precious and critical in these emergency moments, and your ability to perform effective CPR could be the difference between life and death for a student, faculty member, or someone else you know and love. Courses are available

nearby (see the event calendar in this magazine for options). There is also an internet class that can be completed at home in about an hour.

Servicewise Electric is a family owned and operated electrical service company, striving to be the best in the industry by offering the highest level of professional service every time. Ensuring customers feel confident with the efficient quality of work performed by electrical team members is Servicewise’s top priority.

Owner Mike Grayeski has over 25 years of experience in the electrical

construction business and holds an unrestricted Class II Master Electricians License. Co-owner Maggie Grayeski is responsible for the overall management of the office and all company activities. The Grayeskis share two children, Coby (17) and Caroline (14), who also help with the company during the summer and school breaks.

Residing in beautiful Cherokee County, the Grayeskis are passionate about giving back to the community in any way they can. Servicewise is proud to be an active sponsor of several school organizations, youth sport programs, animal organizations, as well as members of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Woodstock Investors, and the Better Business Bureau.

Mike started Servicewise Electric with the vision of “old-school” customer service meets modern time/technology. Punctuality, communication, passion, an assiduous work ethic, respect, fair pricing, and a firm handshake are just a few of the key values and actions customers can expect from Servicewise.

“I want each of our customers to experience the Servicewise difference and become part of the Servicewise family. We are truly blessed to be involved with such an amazing community, and it would be our pleasure to take care of any electrical need you may have for your home or business,” said Mike.

For more information about the services offered or to schedule service, please visit ServicewiseElectrical.com or call/text 404704-4903.

ServiceWise Electric

2845 Holly Springs Parkway Canton, GA 30115

Enjoy Your Local Cherokee PARKS

WOODSTOCK

HollySpringsNotes

Town Center Road Network Project Update

The city council approved the contract with Georgia Development Partners on May 20 for the construction of the Town Center Road Network Project. The project includes the construction of a roundabout on Hickory Road east of Cherokee Fire Station #8, the addition of a westbound travel lane from the roundabout to Holly Springs Parkway, the construction of a new roadway from Palm Street to Hickory Road starting at Walnut Street, and the conversion of the end of Palm Street to a right-in/rightout intersection. Construction began in late July with an estimated completion of fall 2020.

Holly Springs Parkway Widening Project

Baldwin Paving Company, Inc. completed the Holly Springs Parkway Widening Project and all associated infrastructure improvements from Sixes Road north to the intersection with Rabbit Hill Road. All four lanes are open for traffic in this area, and the new traffic light at the intersection of Rabbit Hill Road and Holly Springs Parkway is operational. New sidewalks are in place along both sides of the roadway. Georgia Power has installed pedestrian lampposts on the west side of the roadway. Lampposts will be placed on the east side of the roadway soon.

Palm Street Stormwater Project

The Palm Street Stormwater Project is currently in the design phase. The project will include stormwater infrastructure improvements along Palm Street between the bridge and Palm Lake Drive. The project will address stormwater issues in this area including upgrades to the stormwater conveyance structures such as curb and gutter, stormwater pipe, and catch basins. The city engineer plans to have this project ready to go to bid in the fall of this year.

LCI Phase II Project Underway

A-1 Contracting completed the sidewalk portion of the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Phase II Project on Holly Springs Parkway between Pinecrest Road and L.R. Tippens Education Center. The installation of the new traffic lights at the intersection of Pinecrest Road and Holly Springs Parkway is slated for this month. The pedestrian lampposts between L.R. Tippens Education Center and Pinecrest Road were put in place in July.

2019 LMIG Project Update

The city council approved the 2019 Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) Project on May 20. The contract was awarded to Northwest Georgia Paving, Inc. The 2019 LMIG includes repairing and resurfacing Hickory Road from Harmony on the Lakes to Sequoyah Circle, Palm Street from Amanda Lane to the bridge, and Spring Way Square and Rabbit Hill Road from I-575 to Marble Quarry Road. Since 2014, the City of Holly Springs has used this grant to fund repairs and resurfacing of over 15 miles of roadway within the city limits.

H. Logan is the city manager for Holly Springs. 3237 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. HollySpringsGa.us

Holly Springs Construction Update

By Robert H. Logan

Siblings and Companionship

By Tim Morris

[Lifestyle] I grew up in a small town with three brothers. There was one year between each one of us. I was the youngest, and my brother Joel was the next youngest. We were both born in April,

so for one week, we were the same age. As a child, Joel could not grasp how we could be the same age. I like to think we were close growing up because we did a lot of things together.

Summers were spent working on my grandmother’s farm until we were old enough to get paid jobs. Working the garden was a tiresome job — bent over picking beans in the Georgia heat. For entertainment, my oldest brother Albert liked to pick up big dirt clods and throw them at our backs to watch them burst. One day, Albert found a giant clod and used both hands to throw it at me while I was bent over. He said it seemed like slow motion as the dirt slowly fell away in midair, revealing a large rock, which hit me in the back of the head. I woke up in the hospital after getting stitches.

My brothers and I played sports together, rode bikes all around town, fought, and shared bedrooms. Some of my greatest joys were spent with my brothers. As we

got older and started our own families, it was hard to adjust to not seeing and talking to them every day. I struggle with how we have grown apart. I miss the times with my brothers. I love them and would do anything in the world for them.

We have many seniors in our program who repeat the same stories about similar relationships with their siblings. Some are close, and some are not, and it bothers them, too. We receive a lot of calls each year from seniors who need help or are just lonely. The first thing we ask about is their family. Some don’t have children but have siblings in other areas who they feel too estranged from to call for help. If you would like to help any of these seniors, please call Senior Services.

By Rev. Norman R. Hunt

[InGoodFaith] One of the evidences of what the Bible calls “the end times” is that much preaching and teaching will become just “tickling of the ears.” Paul says, “For the time will come when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions. And will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths,” (II Timothy 4:3-4).

With that understanding, there is a lot of garbage in this world — a lot of mental garbage and moral garbage. If you put it in your mind and heart, it will make you spiritually and morally sick.

There are also many garbage peddlers in our world. There were some garbage peddlers on the island of Crete, who were seeking to overthrow the simple faith of believers and fill their minds and hearts with things that were not true. The church where Titus had been assigned to preach was a very weak and sickly church. That is why he placed an emphasis upon sound doctrine.

Paul reminds the young preacher, Titus, that if he is to keep the church healthy and ready to withstand the garbage peddlers, he must keep the wholesome, healthy word of God in his mind and heart.

I don’t think I have ever seen a time when there was more garbage being peddled in the world than there is today. On radio and television, there are all kinds of mental

trash being propagated in the name of Christ.

Currently, there are people who seek to overthrow the faith of young believers. In Titus 1:11, there is a strong word from God about the responsibility of preachers and teachers to withstand the garbage that is contrary to the word of God.

We are talking about the things that have to do with eternity and where people are going to spend eternity. The Bible makes it very clear that there is no compromise in the area of truth. It is either truth, or it is error.

Choose wisely the preaching and teaching you allow to influence you.

Community Partners

Easterseals, a community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is celebrating a massive milestone, as the national organization marks a century of impactful work helping youth with disabilities and special needs live, grow, and play in their communities. Since its founding in 1919, Easterseals has a long and storied history fueled by the success of its namesake Easter Seals postage stamp campaign, which prompted the expansion of services to Georgia and nationwide in the 1930s.

Easterseals North Georgia is primarily focused on direct service to children with disabilities and special needs, reaching 44 counties in metro Atlanta and northeast Georgia through initiatives including autism services, Champions for Children, child development centers, early intervention, foster grandparents, and mental health services. The organization’s licensed therapists and teachers are expected to serve more than 5,000 children and their families in 2019.

“As we reach our organization’s 100th anniversary, it’s inspiring to see the influence that Easterseals has had on our community, establishing a better environment for children with disabilities, as well as their families,” said Donna Davidson, president and CEO of Easterseals North Georgia. “We have a passionate belief that there is a genius in every child and look forward to working centuries in the future to help local families through innovative programs.”

A leader in child development, Easterseals North Georgia pioneered the first inclusive childcare program to serve children with special needs alongside typically developing children. Every day in 12 locations across the region, the organization provides comprehensive early education and care to almost 2,000 children living at or below the federal poverty level. In addition to an early education, the initiative provides health, dental, nutrition, disability, and mental health services to children, as well as education and job training to parents. Services also include physical, occupational, and speech therapy as well as autism-specific therapies and special instruction.

Easterseals North Georgia also started Georgia’s first early childhood mental health program, which serves infants and children up to age 5, who exhibit behavioral and mental health challenges due to toxic stress in their environments. Although early childhood mental health has recently surfaced as a national issue, Easterseals North Georgia has more than 16 years of experience in this area and has provided input and consultation to the Georgia Legislative Task Force on Childhood Mental Health, as well as Georgia’s Department of Early Care and Learning, Department of Public Health, and the Department of Behavioral Health.

The organization’s Champions for Children provides financial support for children ages 0-18 with severe disabilities, who are not eligible for state or federal assistance. Offering much needed funding for local families, the program pays for medical co-pays, hospitalization, therapies, medication, and special equipment that insurance will not cover.

For more information on how to get involved or receive services, please visit EastersealsNorthGeorgia.org. The public is also invited to attend this year’s Trick or Treat Trot 5K fundraiser October 19 at Thrasher Park in Norcross.

By Savanna Morrison

Picking the Right Color

When it comes to color, it’s important to consider things like skin tone and upkeep. Skin with warm undertones will be complimented best by warmer colors, while skin with cool undertones will be complimented best by cool hues. If you find yourself conflicted by color, consult your stylist. He/she will lead you in the right direction and will incorporate the colors you love that will also compliment your natural beauty.

Upkeep is another thing to consider. There are as many color options as there are different lifestyles. Your stylist can help you find your most flattering colors with a maintenance plan that fits your schedule, which will ensure your hair always looks its best.

More Than One Option

“Red” and “orange” are broad terms when discussing hair color. A closer look at these seasonal tones reveals more shades and variations than fire trucks and carrots. Burgundy, auburn, copper, magenta, wine, plum, pumpkin, eggplant — the list goes on. Combining one or more of these hues will bring your color to the next level and enrich the look you’re going for.

Balayage is an amazing way to bring a pop of color while adding depth and flair. A black or dark brown root can be paired with burgundy, copper, or cherry ends for a more intense and vibrant look, while magenta, rose gold, or mahogany will offer a softer yet still gorgeous look.

[Lifestyle] With summer gone in the blink of an eye, autumn is right around the corner. Soon, pumpkins will sit carved and lit on porches, nights will be filled with bonfires and fairs, and leaves will start to turn into beautiful reds and oranges. Did you know these gorgeous, fiery colors of autumn are available for your hair, too? Take autumn with you everywhere you go this season with a few fun, vibrant tones.

Solid colors look beautiful as well. For an autumn-inspired color, try a copper or pumpkin shade with a slightly darker root. This choice provides dimension to your tresses while giving you the “wow!” factor you want.

Are you a natural redhead? You can enhance your beautiful color by adding a few bright pieces or even a lowlight. Different shades of copper, brown, and auburn will bring a bit more dimension to your naturally gorgeous color.

Pro Tips

• Wash your hair as little as possible.

• Deep condition with a hair masque.

• Add a tint booster to your conditioner.

• Do a cold rinse to seal your cuticle and keep color in.

• Keep your hair out of the sun as much as possible.

Even though summer has faded, coloring your hair a beautiful new shade can intensify your overall look and add warmth to your cool autumn days. L

Things You Learn While Having Spontaneous Fun

By Christopher Brazelton

Improvisation, the theatrical form where dialogue and action are made up on the spot, is not-so-suddenly all the rage. It has been a hit for a while and is a very accessible form of live performance for its audience.

Why improv? On the outside, audiences seem to be drawn to this form. But performing can be a very intimidating starting point to begin a life on the stage — no script, no director, no guide — just “go.” Perhaps that is just it — the stakes are high. However, improv may offer more than you think to those who work in offices and boardrooms rather than on stage. Before you say, “That’s not for me,” here is some insight as to why you may want to do more than just watch improv. Improv has quite a bit to teach:

1. You learn to own your power. In improvisation, you learn to be who you are, to be bold, to challenge conventions, and to question the rules. When you understand what you have to offer and know how to bring it forward, you own your power. You know your purpose, and you can act in a way that’s deliberate, focused, and grounded in your values.

2.

You learn to embrace your fear. Fear is an undeniable element of improv, especially when it’s done in front of an audience. What if you flub a scene, or freeze up, or can’t keep up with the group? You must learn to use those fears to fuel your performance, knowing that everyone gets it wrong sometimes. And it’s the same in leadership and business. Failure is part of every human enterprise and endeavor. Learning to embrace your fears helps you overcome them and learn to treat them as a conduit for greatness.

3.

You develop better listening skills. Improv is all about listening. In fact, listening is a key skill for all actors, allowing them to work off each other. In today’s busy world, it can be hard to shut out the noise and be aware of the present moment, whether you’re in the workplace or on stage. Listening skills help you silence the noise of your own thoughts, so you can hear and be present with another. Improvisation helps you build those skills in a creative and innovative way.

4.

You learn the value of collaboration. Acting, business, and life in general require collaborative skills. A well-rounded team is composed of people with differing abilities, personalities, and life experiences, working together and having each other’s respect and attention. This is true no matter where you apply it. Understanding each member’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial when it comes to keeping your team, friends, and family happy.

5. You learn to adapt and be agile. Improv requires flexibility and agility. When something isn’t working, the actors must often change things on the fly. In acting, you learn that change is just another part of the process of getting it right. In business, implementing even positive change can be challenging. But when leaders know how to communicate, they know how to address their staff in

a way that empowers and includes them, bringing them along and making them feel they are part of something bigger than themselves.

6. You learn to build a great ensemble troupe.

A great ensemble is key to successful improvisation. The same is true for business and leadership. On stage, each team member has a part to play and a role to execute. If you can make each person on your team feel important and purposeful, you’ll have a team with nothing but stars.

7. You learn the importance of creativity and discovery. Improvisation is about discovering and creating on stage, and the best teams in every field are equally fueled by these actions (along with hard work). Team discoveries create innovation and strengthened brands.

8.

You learn to lead — and to follow. When an improv troupe is on stage, roles change and adapt seamlessly. The person who is leading one moment is following the next. True leadership is about that same ebb and flow. Sometimes, leaders lead with vision and goals; other times, they follow the ideas and innovation. You must know how to follow and lead at the same time.

Even if you never quit your day job, the skills you learn from improv can benefit

you in all facets of life. Whether you take a class or just pay more attention the next time your favorite improv group is playing, watch and learn!

While the theatre at large can change the shape and face of a community, improv has an uncanny way to unwind the individual and create a better self, a better leader. So, go get involved, go improv, just — try it! Who knows, you may find yourself in the spotlight as a leader.

Christopher Brazelton is the executive director at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678-494-4251. ElmStreetArts.org

Extinguish Next Summer’s Fire Ant Problem Now

[Home Life] The principles of integrated pest management start with setting “action thresholds,” or basically, how much damage or loss can be tolerated. While most people’s action threshold is high for things like weeds or harmless pests, the biology of the fire ant necessitates a regular control strategy to keep landscapes relatively free from these nasty pests.

The fall is the best time to control fire ants, so start your battle plan for next year now. Fire ant colonies have been growing all summer and will reach their peak by the end of September. It is best to attack these colonies before cooler weather sends them deep into the ground.

For fall treatment, fire ant bait products are ideal. Baits work when worker ants collect the bait and bring it back to the colony. Because the active ingredient is relatively slow acting, there is time for the material to be fed to the queen. Baits are also effective at controlling mounds that are not large enough to be seen, which can catch folks off guard. It is good to wait a week to 10 days after bait applications and check for ant activity on mounds. If there is still activity, treat with a contact insecticide.

By Joshua Fuder

Here are a few things to remember about using fire ant baits:

• Do not disturb the mounds or apply baits directly to the mounds.

• Don’t use a broadcast spreader that has been used for fertilizer.

• Apply bait over the entire yard or in a 4-foot circle around visible mounds.

• Treat the yard in late afternoon when temperatures are between 70 and 85 degrees.

• Treat when there is no rain expected for 24 hours.

• Once you open a bag, try to use all the product within a few days. The oil carrier can degrade over time, and the ants may not take it if the product sits.

• Follow the label on the product; it’s the law.

Check Out What’s New

By Julia Aubin

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival

Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival, organized and hosted by the Service League of Cherokee County, is Cherokee County’s longest-running fall festival. More than 30 years ago, the Service League created Riverfest to raise funds for the children in Cherokee County whose families were facing hardships.

Riverfest hosts some of the Southeast’s finest artists, crafters, and entertainment, which draws record-breaking crowds year after year. With a line-up of returning favorites and many new artists and crafters, the 35th Annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival is sure to be the best yet.

New to Riverfest this year is Industrial Interiors & the Nest. This vendor uses industrial piping and parts from old fire sprinklers that have been meticulously cleaned, grinded, polished, and refinished to create many home decor items such as lamps, wine racks, candelabras, jewelry stands, and shelves. Visit Industrial Interiors & the Nest and take home a unique fixture to complete your living area.

Another exciting new vendor is Arnold’s Art from the Heart. This husband and wife team paint and produce personalized Appalachian folk art. Their original paintings can even be personalized on-site at Riverfest. Be sure to check out this vendor in the arts and crafts area.

Riverfest is also pleased to host Victory Wave Woodworking and Leather by Veterans; great vendors that create one-of-a-kind treasures. Victory Wave Woodworking specializes in hand-carved, wavy wooden flags. Leather by Veterans has beautifully handcrafted leather belts, handbags, wallets, and so much more. They are both on the must-see list for Riverfest this year.

Whether you are a regular or attending Riverfest for the first time, there is something for everyone. From arts and crafts and jaw-dropping entertainment, to pony rides, bounce houses, and delicious food trucks, you’ll find it all at this year’s Riverfest.

The Service League of Cherokee County will present the 35th Annual Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival from 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday, September 28, and 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday, September 29, at Etowah River Park (600 Brown Industrial Parkway in Canton). Admission for adults and children 11 and older is a requested $5 donation. The event will take place rain or shine. All areas will be handicap accessible. Free parking and shuttle service will be available.