Woodstock Family Life 1-15

Everyone is excited about the prospects of the new year, including all of us here at Family Life Publications. This is our first full calendar year as a company and we have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of your lives. The past year has had some spectacular moments of kindness, caring and blessings all around, but not without moments that presented us with opportunities to reach within ourselves to find what we needed to make it through. As with any business, family or friend, we’ve all had some challenges that we needed to face.

Several moments within the past year have inspired me, many of which were sparked by individual responses to issues faced during trying times. Our neighbors and peers seem to have had more of a genuine desire for a chance to come to each other’s aide in time of need. Last February, while i was in a meeting over a bowl of Korean soup in Johns Creek, i witnessed the beginning of “Snowpocalypse.” Before the tab could be paid, the roads were filling with commuters who all too soon found troubling times. So, i went to a nearby friend’s house to visit and wait out the storm. After a couple hours of watching the news, i knew i wasn’t going any farther for the evening. We sat and watched thousands of unfortunate people, many of whom didn’t know each other, being rescued or helped by others. Most people helped not because they had to, but because they wanted to. Those who could help found a way to lend a hand.

Since last winter, i’ve noticed several organizations and groups rallying more for their beliefs and causes. it could be a coincidence — colder weather, warmer hearts. Or, maybe it’s simpler than that. Perhaps it’s in our nature to evolve into a more giving, caring and loving civilization in which we treat others as we can, rather than how we could or would under other circumstances. As i’ve gotten older i’ve learned that doing something for someone that i don’t “have to” can be much more satisfying than any obligation. Hopefully, you’ll join me this year in seeking and discovering new ways to help someone each day. There are plenty of opportunities out there, so help yourself and find the time to do something good for your soul.

Jack Tuszynski, publisher

PUBLISHER/PHOTOGRAPHER

Jack Tuszynski

Jack@FamilyLifePublications.com

EDITORIAL

Michelle Martin Michelle@FamilyLifePublications.com

ART

Candice Williams

Candice@FamilyLifePublications.com

Laurie Litke

Laurie@FamilyLifePublications.com

SALES

Janet Ponichtera

Janet@FamilyLifePublications.com

George Colmant

George@FamilyLifePublications.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrea Addington, Jose Baez, State Senator Brandon Beach, Kyle Bennett, Chris Bryant, Crystal Bryant, Jyl Craven, Catherine Groves, Corey Harkins, Heike Hellmann-Brown, Jericka Jones, Michelle Knapp, Lorre LaMarca, James E. Leake, Kristen Leezer, Robbie Matiak, E. Anthony Musarra, Vishant Nath, Jeff Nevison, Vishal Patel, Michael Petrosky, Janet Read, Gail Roos, Nick Roper, Julie Shepard-Lovell, Suzanne Taylor

Family Life Publishing Group Inc. 150 North Street, Suite A Canton, GA 30114

770-213-7095

FamilyLifePublications.com

FamilyLifePublications

Woodstock Family Life welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. 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. Woodstock 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.

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

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JANUARY Calendar

Holcomb Native American Collection — The Cherokee County Historical Society will display pieces from the Lamar and Mary Fowler Holcomb Native American collection beginning in January. This collection contains a significant number of artifacts from the Long Swamp archaeology site in Ball Ground. Long Swamp’s peak Native American occupation occurred from A.D. 1100-1200, when the site included a mound, palisade wall and village. The Lamar and Mary Fowler Holcomb collection contains 16 pottery bowls and jars, ear spools, pipes, carved pottery figurine fragments, beads and many other items. Cherokee County History Museum, 100 North St., Suite 140, Canton. 770345-3288, RockBarn.org

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‘Bring One for the Chipper’ Throw away your tree the environmental way! Bring your Christmas tree to the chipper at Olde Rope Mill Park, then “dip” into the free mulch! Seedlings also will be available. Participants also can enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and doughnuts during the event on January 3 only. “Bring One for the Chipper” is sponsored by the Keep Georgia Beautiful campaign and the City of Woodstock. No flocked or decorated trees. 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Olde Rope Mill Park, 690 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock. WhatsUpWoodstock.com

8 Hal Ketchum — Country musician Hal Ketchum will perform hits from his long-running career, including songs from his newest release, “I’m the Troubadour.” Visit Tix.com for ticket information. 7:30 p.m., Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton. 770-704-0755, CantonTheatre.com

9 & 10

‘Cadenza’ — This cabaret production is a fundraiser for Reinhardt University.

Contact the theatre for performance times. 7:30 p.m., Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton. 770-704-0755, CantonTheatre.com

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Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries’ Annual Meeting

Friends of the Libraries’ annual meeting will feature local city historian Juanita Hughes as guest speaker. Hughes is a columnist for The Cherokee Tribune and author. She was also the first recipient of the Woodstock Citizen of the Year award in 1997. This event is open to the public and refreshments will be served. 1:00-3:00 p.m., R.T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770479-3090, SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

15 & 29

AADD Game Night — All About Developmental Disabilities (AADD), an Atlanta-based advocacy group focusing on developmental disabilities issues, offers a social games league for young adults in Woodstock. The program connects people with developmental disabilities ages 20 to 40. While young people with developmental disabilities generally receive excellent social support through high school, many become socially isolated in their twenties and thirties. The game nights are an opportunity for this community to make new friends and reconnect with familiar faces. AADD also offers a social bocce ball league in warm weather. 6:30-8:00 p.m., Woodstock Recreation Center, 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock. Contact Michael Stinson for more information. 404-809-2922, Michael@aadd.org

16-18

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ — River Ridge Theatre Co. will perform this musical. Contact the theatre for performance times and ticket information. 7:30 p.m., Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton. 770-704-0755, CantonTheatre.com

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17th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast — The Unity Breakfast recognizes the legacy of one of America’s greatest civil rights icons and draws approximately 500 residents from all racial, political, social and religious backgrounds to promote unity among the citizens of Cherokee County. Cherokee County Schools, community groups and businesses will participate, and Cherokee County officials and community leaders will also be in attendance. The event will include presentation of the MLK Unity Award, established in 1999 by Reverend Carl A. Moore Sr., Pastor of Allen Temple AME Church in Woodstock, to recognize the contributions of an individual who has made a positive impact on the community by fostering harmonious racial and cultural relations. 9:00-11:00 a.m., NorthsideCherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton.

17 Shred Day — A professional shredding company will be on site to shred personal and confidential documents. Limit of four boxes per participant; first come, first served. There is no need to remove staples, paper clips, folders or notebooks. 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Summit Financial Solutions, 1816 Eagle Drive, Woodstock. 770-928-8100, SFSGA.com

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Friends of Cherokee County Public Libraries’ Book Sale — Friends of the Libraries’ first book sale of 2015 will begin with a preview sale for Friends members at 4:00-6:00 p.m., January 22. The public is invited to shop at 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., January 23, and 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., January 24. Gently used adult paperback ($1.00) and hardback ($2.00) (fiction and nonfiction) books will be available, as well as children’s books ($.10 to $1.00), DVDs, CDs, books on tape, videos and specially priced books. All proceeds will benefit the library’s purchase of children’s books and media. R.T. Jones Memorial Library, 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. 770479-3090, SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

8th Annual Etowah Soccer Winter 5K/Fun Run — Come shake off the winter blues with a fun run! Start and finish line will be at Etowah High School Stadium. The entire event is contained on Eagle Mountain and away from traffic and busy streets. Participants who register by January 20 will receive a race t-shirt. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Etowah High School boys’ and girls’ soccer teams. 8:00 a.m., Etowah High School Stadium, 6565 Putnam Ford Road, Woodstock. 770-865-6262, EtowahSoccer. com

January 19: All branches closed

FAMiLy STORy TiMES

January 6, 13, 20 & 27, 3:00 p.m., Rose Creek

January 8, 15, 22 & 29, 10:30 a.m., Hickory Flat, Woodstock

January 8, 15, 22 & 29, 3:30 p.m., Woodstock

Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. These programs often feature stories, music, rhymes and a free craft activity. Scan

LAPSiT STORy TiMES

January 7, 14, 21 & 28, 10:30 a.m., Rose Creek, Woodstock

January 7, 14, 21 & 28, 11:30 a.m., Woodstock

Lapsit story times will be limited to the first 15 children (plus their caregiver) to arrive and the doors to the program will be closed when the program begins.

spEci AL pRograms

MONSTER BOOKMARKS

January 14, 4:00 p.m., Hickory Flat

Take a bite out of your books with an awesome monster bookmark created by YOU! Kids 7-12 will learn how to fold

HiCKORy FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton, 770-345-7565 ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491 WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859 continued on 8 HoLidAY HoUR s

and design their own creative monster bookmarks. All monster-making supplies are provided! Space is limited; registration is required. Registration begins December 31. Call 770-345-7565 to register.

BOOKMARK BOOK CLUB

January 20, 4:00 p.m., Woodstock

Rack up 4 AR points and have fun doing it! Join us for a fun discussion about this month’s selection, Caldecott-winning book, “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” by Brian Selznick. We will discuss the book, make a craft, and play a game related to the book. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required. Call 770-479-3090 ext. 233 to sign up or for more information.

iNCOME TAx PREPARATiON ASSiSTANCE

January 25, 2:00-6:00 p.m., Woodstock (call 404-509-2856 for appointment)

January 31, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Rose Creek George Russell, formerly with the Internal Revenue Service, will offer income tax return preparation assistance.

‘DiARy OF A WiMPy KiD’ ACTiviTiES

January 28, 4:00 p.m., Woodstock

Don’t get the cheese touch! Fans of the popular “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series are invited to come to the library for fun games and a craft. Participants will find out who the biggest Wimpy Kids expert is, create their own comic strips, and avoid the cheese touch! Ages 8-10. Space is limited; registration is required. Registration begins January 14: 770-9265859.

oN goiN g pRograms

READiNG DOGS

January 6, 13, 20 & 27, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hickory Flat

January 7, 14, 21 & 28, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Rose Creek

January 14, 21 & 28, 4:00-5:00 p.m., Woodstock Kids and dogs go together like books and reading. Letting a child read to a dog builds confidence by providing a friendly, furry and non-judgmental listener. Sessions of 10-15 minutes for ages 6 and up are available, but space is limited. Register by calling the appropriate branch up to two weeks before the scheduled event.

KNiTTiNG iNSTRUCTiON

January 6, 13, 20 & 27, 1:00-2:00 p.m., Rose Creek

Interested in learning how to knit? A retired teacher will share her knitting skills with others. Bring your yarn, knitting needles and be prepared to have fun! Free. This group meets every Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. Call to register: 770-591-1491.

ROSE CREEK BOOK CLUB

January 7, 11:00 a.m., Rose Creek

The Rose Creek Book Club will meet to discuss their current book. For more information, contact RoseCreekBookClub@gmail.com, or call the Rose Creek Adult Services Dept. at 770-591-1491.

WOODSTOCK LEGO CLUB

January 18, 3:00 p.m., Woodstock

The Lego Club has a different theme each month. Children can work alone or in teams to make their special creation, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. All ages; children under 9 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Business

Towne Lake Primary Care Welcomes Dr. Kirk Hewling

Towne Lake Primary Care recently added Kirk Hewling, M.D., as the newest physician to its practice at the Northside Cherokee/Towne Lake Medical Campus in Woodstock. A board-certified physician in family medicine, Dr. Hewling joins Dr. Robin Loe and Dr. Noreen Mercando in providing families with the highest quality medical care possible. Dr. Hewling is a graduate of the Howard University College of Medicine. He completed his residency at the Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Hewling has practiced in the Atlanta area for more than 10 years. His clinical interests include sports medicine, adolescent medicine, and cardiovascular health, and he has received numerous awards for his care, including the Patient’s Choice Award, Compassionate Doctor Recognition and Hypertension Care Recognition. 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 410, Woodstock. 678-445-0819

Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) and Northside Hospital are collecting backpacks and kid-sized suitcases for foster children in Georgia as part of the 13th annual Totes 2 Tots suitcase drive. Approximately 8,500 children, from infants to teenagers, are currently in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. Since Totes 2 Tots was first launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 37,000 bags. Totes 2 Tots originally was held on Martin Luther King Day as a way to honor Dr. King’s vision of philanthropy and give back to the community. The event is now held on the preceding Friday, to kick off a weekend of service in Dr. King’s honor. Donations of new or nearly new backpacks and suitcases will be accepted at 27 GCS offices across Georgia, including Canton, at 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., January 16. 228 Riverstone Drive, Canton. 770-479-1870, GaCancer.com

Are You Ready For Some Football?

By Nick Roper

As the first year of the NCAA College Football Playoffs wrap up, it leaves most sports fans and commercial enthusiasts looking forward to the Super Bowl. This may be your last opportunity for a few months to use the “man cave” or have friends and family over to watch a sporting event, so you’ll want to leave a lasting impression with your guests.

There are a lot of ways to improve your Super Bowl viewing experience without having to throw a Hail Mary on the first play. For starters, be sure to mount

the flat-screen TV that you got for Christmas so that the wiring is hidden in the wall for a clean, efficient look. This would also be a great time to add a 5.1 surround sound system with in-wall and in-ceiling speakers that you’ve been wanting to enhance your daily TV and movie watching.

Now that your family room is set up, let’s talk about the “man cave” or movie room. If you already have one, you can always add new features. One of my personal favorites for a room like this is a projector that is installed to hang from the ceiling and project a largerthan-life picture onto a screen or white wall. Next, you’ll need to add surround sound in this room as well. Finally, the last-second field goal that will leave the lasting impression is adding lights

controlled by dimmer switches and rope lighting around the ceiling.

It’s also a good idea to add a wholehome surge protector to protect your investment from power surges. The final behind-the-scenes addition that you will need is a monitored security system and possibly security cameras. Otherwise, you may come home to find your friends kicked back and watching TV at your house unannounced. These few things are sure to make this one of the best Super Bowls ever!

Extreme Rush Apparel opened recently at Town Center Mall in Kennesaw. Owned by Atlanta native Don Chao, Extreme Rush Apparel started as an online retailer of fitness apparel for elite athletes performing in such sports as Mixed Martial Arts, CrossFit and powerlifting. Shortly after launching, Amazon and Sears began selling Extreme Rush Apparel on their websites as well. The Kennesaw store is Extreme Rush Apparel’s second in a series of brick-and-mortar stores planned to open in close proximity to high-end gyms across the country. Extreme Rush Apparel also is located at The Silos at North Farm Marketplace in Alpharetta.

Extreme Rush Apparel has partnered with a local manufacturer from Stone Mountain, Ga., to begin production of its high-quality apparel. “Extreme Rush Apparel represents a unique brand because we don’t mass-produce any of our styles. Customers can feel confident in knowing they are wearing exclusive fitness clothing,” said Chao. “Extreme Rush Apparel prides itself on being designed and tested by the athletes we serve. In the end, we want the Extreme Rush Apparel community to feel good about working out and feel great in the workout apparel they choose. As an Atlanta area native, I’m excited to bring a lifestyle brand to residents.” Town Center Mall, 400 Ernest W. Barrett Parkway, N.W., Suite 607, Kennesaw. ExtremeRush.com

Falany & Hulse Women’s Center is scheduled to open a new Towne Lake location on January 12. The team of board-certified physicians includes Dr. Angela Falany, Dr. Michael Hulse, Dr. Najai Lawrence, and Dr. Annie Kim, along with certified physician assistants. Falany & Hulse Women’s Center provides state-of-theart women’s healthcare, including OB/ GYN services and surgical procedures performed in office and at Northside Hospital-Cherokee and North Georgia Medical Center in east Ellijay affiliated hospitals. 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 404, Woodstock. 770-720-8551, FalanyAndHulse.com

The Georgia Academy for Economic Development, held this past December, included a 2014 Region 3 Multi-Day Training Program open to Cherokee County participants. Meghan Griffin, director of the City of Canton’s Main Street program, and Mitzi Saxon, administrative coordinator for the City of Woodstock’s Office of Economic Development & Downtown Development Authority, were among the participants from professional and non-professional economic development fields, elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators, and social service providers across 10 counties in metro Atlanta.

Georgia EMC and Georgia Power provide facilitators for the program, and the Georgia Dept. of Community Affairs provides staff support to this important program. Created in 1993, the Academy is taught one day a month over a four-month period. It includes training in the basics of economic and community development, plus specialized segments on business recruitment and retention, tourism product development, downtown development, planning, and other essentials for community success. In addition, the curriculum features specific leadership skills, such as consensus building, ethics in public service, collaborative leadership and other segments needed for effective community leadership in economic development. Local elected officials may receive certification training credits through the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and the Georgia Municipal Association for completion of this program. “One of the goals for the multi-day regional Academies is to encourage multi-county cooperation,” says Corinne Thornton, director of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development. “Many times the participants discover the issues facing their community are the same as those facing other communities in their region, and can then combine limited resources to address the issue.”

Plastic Surgery

By Drs. Musarra, Leake, Petrosky & Harkins

for a New You in the New Year

Now that the holidays are over and a new year has begun, this is the perfect time to give yourself the gift that keeps on giving.

If you’re like most people, when you look in the mirror you find areas that you would like to improve. Unfortunately, there are no fast and simple ways to fix those troubled spots. Plastic surgery, however, including surgical and nonsurgical procedures, offers a variety of benefits and results.

One of the most obvious benefits of plastic surgery is the physical transformation that is possible. With

the help of a plastic surgeon, men and women across the nation have achieved their cosmetic goals. Whether you want to reshape an aspect of your face or contour the lines of your body, plastic surgery can help you to feel more confident about your physical appearance. This increase in self-assurance carries over into the workplace and home, and can positively affect interpersonal relationships as well. Unlike temporary solutions, plastic surgery helps achieve a lasting new look.

However, surgery is not always the right solution for certain cosmetic needs. Nonsurgical procedures offer the benefit of a more youthful appearance, but on a temporary basis. This is a great way to test the possibilities for enhancing your physical appearance while avoiding the downtime and discomfort that may accompany a surgical procedure. Most

nonsurgical services require a day of recovery at most, while many will require no downtime at all.

The first step to choosing the right option is understanding exactly what you hope to achieve from the procedure. The best option for you not only will help you achieve the intended results but also will be one for which you are a good candidate. When you go in for a consultation, your doctor will assist you in determining which procedure will help you attain your cosmetic goals. Ultimately, the procedure you choose will be a highly personal decision.

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

Senator Speaks And So It Begins… The 2015 Legislative Session

By Senator Brandon Beach

The 2015 Legislative Session will begin January 12, marking the beginning of the first term of the 153rd legislative session. Legislators will have exactly 40 days to discuss, vet, and pass legislation to be considered by Governor Deal for 2015. We have a number of potential topics on our legislative agenda that are likely to arise throughout the session.

Education & Youth

Common Core: Georgia joined 46 other states in adopting the Common Core Standards in fall 2012. These standards define the knowledge and skills students should gain throughout their K-12 education in order to graduate. To date, three states have passed legislation to withdraw their states out of Common Core Standards. We may see legislation regarding the status of Common Core in our state.

Finance

Fractional Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax: Currently, local governments can only levy a 1 percent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) in Georgia. In the past, legislation has been proposed that would authorize local governments to request a fraction of a full penny for SPLOST revenue from its voters. We may see another attempt to pass fractional SPLOST legislation.

Health and Human Services

Medical Cannabis: Last session, legislation was introduced that would provide research on the benefit of medical cannabis for patients with cancer, glaucoma or seizure disorders. Although the legislation did not pass, a study committee met over the summer to discuss the pros and cons of legalizing, regulating possession, cultivating, and distributing medical cannabidiol oil (CBD) in Georgia. Expect to see legislation regarding CBD oil to be presented this session.

Insurance and Labor

Insurance Coverage for the Treatment of Autism: Although thoroughly discussed during last session, we can expect legislation requiring health insurance plans to provide coverage for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The bill from 2014 would have required plans to cover children 6 years of age or younger who are diagnosed with ASD and to cover applied behavior analysis (ABA) up to $35,000 annually.

Transportation

Ride-Sharing Services: Last session, a bill was introduced that would have required transportation referral service providers, such as Uber, to obtain a

permit from the Dept. of Public Safety. The House Study Committee on For-Hire Transportation Services examined the manner in which government regulates existing and new forms of for-hire transportation services.

Transportation Funding: In order to address the potential funding transportation shortfalls our state is facing, the Joint Study Committee on Critical Transportation Infrastructure met to review ongoing transportation needs in various regions of the state and discuss new or alternative funding mechanisms for state and local transportation projects. Legislation regarding the future of funding our transportation system will probably make its way to the General Assembly sometime this session.

As we move through the legislative session, I will continue to keep you updated on the status of legislation that will impact our community.

River Ridge HS Nursing Assistant Students Prepare for Clinical Rotation

After months of practicing patient care skills in the classroom, students in River Ridge HS’ 2014-15 Nursing Assistant Program will use these skills in local nursing and medical facilities for 40 hours of clinical rotation. It will be their first clinical rotation. Following these hours, students will take the Nursing Assistant State Certification Exam as the culmination of this Healthcare Science Career Pathway Program.

This is the third year that River Ridge HS has offered the program, which has quickly grown in popularity. “I’ve learned valuable skills that I will continue to use in my future medical career,” said Hayden Kolodziejcyk, a junior. Senior Andrew Dionne said the program is not only a “rewarding experience” but also has made him more aware of future career opportunities in the healthcare field.

Pictured above: RRHS Nursing Assistant students (left to right, front row): Anna Ricker, Caroline Mlaska, Katie Weiden, Sophie O’Hare, Courtney Wimpey, Jessica Anthony, Selina Pan, Abby Reeves, Hayden Kolodziejcyk; (back row): Edwin Pedroza, Katie Zell, Andrew Dionne, Jessica Mirocha and Fabian Rodriguez

South Cherokee Optimist Club Honors CCSD Students

Cherokee County School District (CCSD) students and employees were recognized recently at the South Cherokee Optimist Club’s Annual Youth Appreciation Awards Breakfast. The event recognizes high school students with disabilities with awards in several categories. The Club honors middle school students with disabilities in the spring.

The honored students included: Most improved — Kelsey Phillips, Etowah HS; Victoria Wooldridge, Sequoyah HS; Austin Garrett, Transition Academy at Woodstock HS; Outstanding Achievement

Matthew Blalock, River Ridge HS; Positive Attitude and Outstanding Achievement

Ryan Hamburg, Woodstock HS.

Community

Etowah HS Senior Wins Youth Gold Award

Katherine Morawa, a senior at Etowah HS, has won a regional award in recognition of academic achievement and leadership. Katherine has won the Hispanic Heritage Foundation 2014 Regional Youth Gold Award in the Education category. The awards for the Atlanta region recently were presented during an awards ceremony held at Georgia Tech University.

The Youth Awards honor Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community and for their achievement in various areas of study; the Education award is sponsored by Southwest Airlines. Three students are honored in each category — one Gold, one Silver and one Bronze winner — in each of the Foundation’s 10 regions; of the 30 total honorees, one will be selected as the National Youth Award recipient of the category. Approximately 10,000 applications are submitted each year by high school juniors, who are honored as seniors in the fall. Students have an average GPA of 3.5 or higher, and winning students are role models who “inspire others and shatter negative stereotypes.”

Katherine will be recognized by the Cherokee County Superintendent of Schools and School Board at the January 15 School Board meeting.

Woodstock HS Student Receives Charity Sponsorship

Kirsti’s Wishing Well, a nonprofit for musicians, writers, and artists in loving memory of Kirsti Sue Baiel, has selected WHS sophomore Brooke Bowling as its first recipient of a sponsorship for Indoor Color Guard/ Indoor Drumline. Brooke is a member of the WHS Winter Guard and the Marching Wolverines Color Guard. She is the daughter of Jim and Christy Bowling; Christy Bowling is assistant principal of Arnold Mill ES.

Welcome 2015!

I clearly remember the first parent meeting I attended at Etowah High School. While speaking to a large crowd of first-time high school parents in the old, crowded gym, Dr. Pat Denney, assistant principal, uttered these prophetic words: “High school is the fastest four years of your child’s life.” I remember thinking to myself, “She must be wrong.” Dr. Denney proved to be right, until I thought about these past four years as my oldest son has attended the University of Georgia. Those years have seemed to go by even faster than the previous four.

As we roll into 2015, I realize that there will be many more firsts in my life. My oldest son will graduate on May 8 and will become a college alumnus. He is already deciding his next option in life,

as he ponders the decision to pursue graduate school or a full-time job. I will celebrate a milestone birthday this year, an age that in my childhood years seemed really old — but now doesn’t seem very old at all!

When the four recently elected board members of Cherokee County School District are sworn in on January 15, we will have two who are brand new, a third with less than six months’ experience, and a fourth returning after a two-year hiatus. I am looking forward to working together as a team and hearing the new ideas and perspectives that most certainly will be brought to the table. The January meeting will also include some new faces in the front row, as two recently appointed assistant superintendents will be seated with their peers.

By Janet Read

With the unprecedented student growth Cherokee County has seen, we have routinely held a ribbon cutting ceremony for at least one of our new schools each fall in recent years. While we will not be opening any new or replacement schools in 2015, we are looking forward to the completion and opening of Dean Rusk Middle School in fall 2016.

I am looking forward to another fantastic year, both in my personal life and as the CCSD School Board chair. I just hope that time slows down a little bit so I can catch my breath!

Greenprints Alliance Names Gary Moore as Executive Director

Greenprints Alliance board of directors has announced the appointment of Gary Moore as the organization’s new executive director.

“Moore has the passion, trail management experience, and operational skills that Greenprints Alliance is looking for, plus a strong connection to the Woodstock mountain biking trail community,” said David Potts, chairman of the board for Greenprints Alliance. “His high standards and experience will help move the organization forward to implement the next phase of trail development.”

Moore will succeed Jennifer Stockton, who served as the organization’s volunteer executive director for the past three years. Moore brings to the position his experience as a nonprofit board member with the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) and Southern Off Road Bike Association (SORBA) Woodstock Chapter, where he currently serves as trail director for the highly regarded Blankets Creek Mountain Biking Trails and Woodstock’s Taylor Randahl Memorial Mountain Biking Trails. Moore was commissioned to design and build the Dupree Park Family Mountain Biking Trails in Woodstock last summer and is an inaugural member of the volunteer-based Woodstock Trail Watch Program.

Mill Creek MS Student Wins Water Essay Contest

Mill Creek MS eighth-grader Eric Sabula has been selected the Cherokee County winner in the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District’s 2014 Water Essay Contest. More than 1,900 students from metro Atlanta entered the annual contest, in which students explained in 500 words or less why water quantity and water quality are equally important. An awards reception was held December 4 at the Georgia State Capitol. Each county winner received a $100 prize.

Foundation Seeks Donations for Land Purchase for New Children’s Park

Remember Georgia’s Children Foundation, a 501(3)(c) organization, is seeking donations to help fund the purchase of land for a new Children’s Park of Georgia, to be located in Canton. The unique park will be a special place to celebrate the lives of all children, offering areas for natural play and quiet meditation along with opportunities to engrave children’s names along the sidewalks and monuments. The Children’s Park of Georgia will provide a place for children to play, explore and discover, as well as provide a place for parents to celebrate the lives of children — present and lost.

The park is being modeled after The Children’s Park in Tyler, Texas. Christy Zeigler, executive director of Remember Georgia’s Children Foundation, estimates the total cost of the project at $1 million, including approximately $90,800 for the land. The organization is working on purchasing land for the park that is located at Highway 20 near Butterworth Road. Donations through the grassroots fundraising initiative will be accepted through January 31, with the hopes of breaking ground in February. For more information, visit ChildrensParkOfGeorgia.org.

Farm Bureau Hosts Essay Contest

Cherokee County students in grades 6-8 are invited to enter the Georgia Farm Bureau Middle School Essay Contest. The essay topic is “Make My Career Agriculture,” which is designed to encourage students to study Georgia agriculture and learn how their food is produced and the contributions farming makes to our lives every day as they learn about career possibilities.

The 1st Place County Winner of the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Essay Contest will receive a $50 Walmart gift card and the 2nd Place County Winner will receive a $50 Walmart gift card. Each school will also have a 1st and 2nd Place winner, each receiving a $25 Walmart gift card. The Cherokee County Farm Bureau Essay Contest winner will be entered in the Georgia Farm Bureau First District competition. The district winner will receive a cash prize of $100. The 10 district winners will compete for the state prize of $150 cash. Previous state winners are not eligible.

Official contest rules and entry forms are available at GFB.org/ Programs/AIC, or through the Cherokee County Farm Bureau at 770-479-1481. All entries must be received at the Cherokee County Farm Bureau office by February 20.

Scoop of

by mIchelle KNApp & suzANNe tAylor

Family Fun Ideas for the Indoors

It’s that time of year when the hustle of the holiday season is over, but the weather outside may still be frightful. If you start to hear, “I’m bored,” Scoop OTP has suggestions for some great “forced family fun” activities indoors.

A new party place opened in Woodstock last year called The Pampered Peacock. They specialize in “girly” activities, such as manicures and pedicures, makeup, hair, dressup and karoke. The Pampered Peacock hosts parties for children, tweens, teens, and adults. This could be the perfect fix for the girls you know to fight off the dreary January weather. 7031 Main St., Woodstock. 678-540-7601, ThePamperedPeacock.com

If you and your little ones find yourselves with extra time on your hands this time of year, why not try music or art lessons? Play Music and Art! in the Hickory Flat area offers quality art classes and music lessons. They specialize in music lessons for beginners. They also offer a variety of art, sculpting, and painting classes for all ages, so you can tap into your creative side. There are no contracts; they want you to be there because you want to learn. Classes are offered six days a week. If you have a January birthday party to plan, they host parties, too. 6768 Hickory Flat Hwy., Suite 112, Canton. 770-345-7529, PlayMusicAndArt.com

If your kids are bouncing off the walls, you can reserve an hour or two to play some indoor basketball or volleyball at Blitz Sports in Canton. Blitz Sports also offers speed and agility classes if your kids just need to move (or if this is part of your New Year’s resolutions). 500 E. Rope Mill Road, Canton. 404-925-7521, Time2Blitz.com

A fun Scoop-approved place to check out is the Escalade Rock Climbing Center in Kennesaw. It boasts that it has one of the largest bouldering walls in Atlanta.

The center also offers classes in aerial silks if you are feeling daring. This is a “forced family fun” adventure for the whole family! 3694 Kennesaw South Industrial Drive, Kennesaw. 770-794-1575, EscaladeGym.com

For more Scoop suggestions, visit ScoopOTP.com.

By Vishal Patel, O.D.

Do you have diabetes? If so, how long have you been a diabetic? When was your last physical and eye exam? What was your last fasting blood sugar and A1C? These are the many questions that pertain to patients who have annual diabetic eye exams. Uncontrolled diabetes is one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss in the United States. Patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes can have diabetic eye disease and not know it, as it is painless and often has no symptoms until very advanced stages. Diabetes can also be a precursor to other diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts. Generally, these conditions are treatable; but, if not caught

High Blood Sugar Equals Low Vision

early enough, they can lead to vision loss or even blindness.

Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that diabetes is becoming more common in the United States. From 1980 through 2011, the number of Americans with diagnosed diabetes has more than tripled — from 5.6 million to 20.9 million. In 2008, of U.S. adults age 40 or older with diabetes, 4.2 million people had diabetic eye disease. Currently, the American Diabetes Association recommends that adults with Type 1 diabetes have an initial dilated and comprehensive eye examination within five years after they are diagnosed with diabetes. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes are advised to have a dilated and comprehensive exam shortly after the diagnosis of diabetes. After the initial exam, everyone with diabetes is encouraged to have an annual exam.

Treatment of diabetic retinopathy varies depending on the extent of the disease. With recent advances in treatments, the chances of avoiding vision loss from diabetes are greater than ever, but watchfulness is crucial. If you are a diabetic, you can help prevent or slow the development of diabetic retinopathy by taking medications, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling high blood pressure, and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an eye-care professional who is trained to diagnose diabetic retinopathy. Take these important steps now to keep diabetes from impacting your vision.

Community Partners

by JulIe shepArd-loVell

When high school ends, students often wonder about their next step. Many young adults with special needs from Cherokee and surrounding counties find their answer at Next Step Ministries in Woodstock. Next Step provides therapeutic daycare for people with developmental and acquired disabilities.

“Our goal is to meet families at their point of need, caring for their special needs family members in a therapeutic, Christian environment,” says Lori Baker, founder of Next Step Ministries. “We help special needs individuals improve their quality of life by participating in safe, appropriate and interactive programs.”

Last fall, Next Step moved into a new home in Woodstock after leasing offices along Trickum Road for five years. Next Step’s new office is located at 7709 Turner Road. After a whirlwind of renovations, there’s an inviting and accessible new space for clients. The new building includes a day program area with two kitchens, a job skills area, and a sensory room. Outside, volunteers have set up a picnic area and wheelchair-accessible trail. “Where we were before, the owners were very gracious and it was

a good place, but we outgrew it,” says Baker. “This just gives us so many more opportunities to serve our folks.”

Next Step Ministries currently serves more than 65 clients. On any given day, you’ll find young people involved in activities like cooking, listening to guest musicians, riding the Next Step van to community outings, and creating art. Many clients also learn valuable life skills in a job-training program.

Each summer and on school holidays, Next Step also offers popular day camps for school-aged young people. In addition, the ministry offers respite care on Saturdays. Baker is happy Next Step’s new building has more room to assist more clients who have been on a waiting list and can provide a home away from home for them.

Parents like Donna and Mark Miller, whose son David spends time regularly at Next Step, quickly learn that Baker and her dedicated staff offer young people not only a place to go but also a place to grow. Next Step

is a place to learn independence, have fun and make new friends.

“They care about David, and they love him,” says Donna Miller. “I like the small size. David just is happy there, because he can tell they love him and they’re happy to see him.”

So, what’s next for Next Step? Baker is excited about the two-acre lot, which creates more room for clients to explore the outdoors. Next spring, you’ll likely find them enjoying a planned prayer garden and tending flowers in raised, accessible beds. It’s clear at Next Step there’s plenty of room for special young people to blossom.

Because Next Step is a nonprofit organization, the need for donations and volunteers is great. A fundraising campaign is under way to support the building purchase and renovations. Volunteers can serve in a number of ways, including during Saturday respite programs and answering phones on weekdays.

Insurance Knowledge: Factors that Affect Auto Insurance Rates

I’m often asked about factors that affect auto insurance rates. Generally, factors fall into one of two simple categories: factors you can control and factors you can’t control.

Factors You Can Control

• Driving Record: This is obvious. The more tickets and claims you have, the higher your rates will be.

• Credit Score: Your credit score reduces or increases your premium with most companies.

• Marital Status: Single = higher premium; married = lower premium.

• Prior Insurance: How long you’ve been insured and the prior limits of liability coverage carried can affect your rates if you’re considering changing companies. No prior or lapse = higher rates.

• Deductibles: Low deductible =

By Jeff Nevison

higher premium; higher deductible = lower premium.

• Garage Address: Where you live and the mileage driven daily or annually affects your rates.

• Vehicle Model & Features: Luxury, sporty, high-performance, techy cars typically cost more to insure. Higher safety ratings don’t always mean lower rates. Check insurance cost before buying a car.

• Vehicle Use: Commuting, business use, pleasure use are rated differently. Higher mileage = higher rate.

• Discounts: Defensive driver course, safe driver, good student, association membership, advance quoting, car safety and alarm features, multiple policies, multi-vehicles, new vehicle, green vehicle, pay in full, loyalty discounts, etc. may be offered.

• Insurance Company: Don’t assume

they’re all the same. Rates, coverages and discounts are different from company to company. Some re-check driving records on each renewal, while some don’t.

Factors You Can’t Control (but may still affect your rates)

• Age: Young or inexperienced drivers usually pay more. Senior drivers may also pay more.

• Some Claims: Not-at-fault claims, storm claims, etc. are generally not in your control. Surcharges for these types of claims are handled differently from company to company.

• Everyone Else: Insurance rates are very statistical. The claims or activities of others can affect your premiums.

Happy New Year and welcome to 2015!

By Michelle Martin l Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net

For too many people, pain has become an everyday part of life. Many people, unable to identify and treat the source of the pain after countless doctor visits, have suffered for years with some form of chronic pain. This type of ongoing pain can affect people’s mental and emotional health as well. Many people with chronic pain become dependent upon prescription medications, develop depression, and experience problems in relationships with family and friends.

Sonny Dosanjh, M.D., wants to reassure people with chronic pain that there is hope. He is an ABMS Board Certified Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) and Emory Fellowship Trained Pain Medicine specialist. He is also the founder, CEO and Chief Medical Officer of Medici Medical Arts, with offices in Buckhead, Dunwoody and Woodstock. An Ambulatory Surgical Center is scheduled to come online in mid-2015.

“Unfortunately, symptoms can be misleading and the cause of the pain may be difficult to diagnose. Pain is the body’s alarm system and an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience, which is associated with tissue damage and indicates inflammation. When pain is masked with pharmaceuticals, such as painkillers — rather than getting to the source of the pain — it’s essential to take time with patients to have a thorough understanding of their symptoms, history and physical exam to get to the source of the pain. It is of the utmost importance to treat patients with compassion, and build a relationship of trust and communication,” he says.

Dr. Dosanjh, a native of Canada, came to the United States in 2007 to complete his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Emory University after earning his medical degree in

England. In addition, Dr. Dosanjh completed a Multi-Disciplinary Pain Fellowship with the Emory University Anesthesia Department. Dr. Dosanjh’s extensive specialty training, combined with his own interest and background in Sports Medicine as a professional football player and martial artist, brings a unique perspective to pain management. “I have always dreamed of opening a multi-disciplinary pain and sports medicine center,” he says.

Medici Medical Arts offers a multidisciplinary medical approach to

diagnosing and treating chronic neck, spine, back, nerve, muscle and joint disorders, along with pain associated with automobile accidents, sports injuries, work-related injuries, longterm illness, concussions and migraine headaches.

Dr. Dosanjh incorporates physical medicine, rehabilitation, intervention, minimally invasive procedures, cuttingedge stem cell and platelet-rich plasma injections, and overall wellness to provide integrative pain solutions using limited pharmaceutical assistance.

The team at Medici Medical Arts includes a Neurologist, Psychiatrist, Physical Therapist and Nurse Practitioner, and all of his ancillary staff. “At other medical centers, it’s easy for patients to get lost in the system because they’re referred out to one doctor after another. Our staff of experienced specialists, therapists and practitioners in one central facility allows us to come together easily for consultations and develop integrated treatment options for our patients,” he says.

The Medici Medical Arts team provides comprehensive diagnostic services, including X-ray, MRI, ultrasound and electromyography. Treatment options include traditional, alternative and advanced protocols like epidural injections, radiofrequency ablation, spinal cord stimulators, botox for migraines and spasticity, stem cell therapy and many others. A complete listing of Conditions Treated and Procedures Performed is available on their website at www. MediciMedicalArts.com.

As Dr. Dosanjh explains, a Treatment Plan is developed according to patients’ individual needs based on a complete medical evaluation, patient history and imaging, if necessary. “It’s important to spend time with patients and show them that you care simply by listening to them,” he says. “Patients often are misdiagnosed because of the limited time they have with their providers.”

To make matters worse, Dr. Dosanjh explains that misdiagnosis can have life-altering effects if unnecessary medications or surgery are recommended. He recalls two instances when patients came to Medici Medical Arts after having been diagnosed by other doctors with serious issues that could have had long-term effects on their health and quality of life. In both instances, Dr. Dosanjh identified the source of the pain and treated the pain successfully without surgery. “Not every diagnosis and treatment is simple,” he adds, “but it’s important to pay attention to patients and to do a thorough physical exam. I try to treat my patients like I would my own family —with compassionate, focused care.”

Dr. Dosanjh also emphasizes nutrition and wellness as part of patients’ evaluation. “No matter what your condition, proper nutrition and exercise play a big role in overall health,” he says, adding that vitamin and electrolyte deficiencies can be a major contributor to pain. Lab tests, performed on patients, will indicate any vitamin, mineral or electrolyte deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, presence of narcotics or other issues. Dr. Dosanjh may recommend physical therapy to help patients increase range of motion, improve flexibility or build strength so that they can begin an exercise program. “An increase in lean body mass correlates to a more successful outcome, so we stress nutrition and exercise as the fundamentals to overall health and wellness,” he says.

Other health issues associated with chronic pain can include depression and addiction. As Dr. Dosanjh explains, depression brought on by pain can result in even further problems.

“Women and men alike can experience diminished sex drive and fatigue as a result of depression, which can affect intimacy and relationships,” he says. People may also become dependent upon narcotics and other pharmaceuticals used to deal with the pain. A dependency upon narcotics may lead to financial problems as well. “It’s imperative that we are mindful of all the different issues that people can develop as a result of living with pain,” Dr. Dosanjh says. “At Medici Medical Arts, we work with patients to not only identify and treat the source of their pain but also to help them understand the source of their depression and/or addiction, and break the cycle.”

Dr. Dosanjh works with Dr. Blazen Draguljic, (M.D.), a specialist in psychiatry addictionology, to help patients sort through the mental, physical and dependency issues often associated with chronic pain. Whenever possible, Dr. Draguljic and Dr. Dosanjh like to involve family members to get their perspective on how patients’ pain, depression and addiction have impacted not only the individual patients but also their loved ones. “In most cases, people don’t recognize how their behavior affects everyone around them; spouses usually suffer the most,” says Dr. Dosanjh. “Having different perspectives offers a better understanding so that we can develop the best treatment options. While the patients are the ones experiencing pain, they’re not the only ones suffering. Successful treatment involves a team effort and support network to return patients to renewed health and quality of life.”

844-328-4624 Fax 770-882-2576

BUCKHEAD

Palisades at West Paces

3200 Downwood Circle, N.W., Suite 410 Atlanta, GA 30327

DUNWOODY

7100 Peachtree Dunwoody, Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30328

WOODSTOCK

203 Woodpark Place, Building B-200 Woodstock, GA 30188

Sonny Dosanjh, M.D. ABMS Board Certified Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Emory Fellowship Trained Pain Medicine

Dr. Blazen Draguljic Board Certified Psychiatry Addictionology

Humidification System

Offers Health & Home Benefits

Low relative humidity resulting from heating systems is a common problem in homes during these cold winter months. Low relative humidity causes dry air and essentially absorbs moisture from everything and everyone in the home — leading to itchy skin, scratchy throats, dry noses, and static shock.

According to the American Society of Otolaryngology, an overly dry environment actually makes people more susceptible to infections. In fact, many viruses have been found to thrive in low humidity and can increase the likelihood of getting colds, flu and upperrespiratory ailments. But, the effects of dry air don’t end there. Dry air can damage your home as well.

Walls and ceilings can crack, and wood floors and trim can separate. Dry air also shrinks the framing around windows and doors, which causes gaps that allow cold air in from the outside — making your home less energy efficient. Static electric charges also could cause damage that requires costly repairs or replacement of expensive electronic equipment.

Air that is properly humidified can help prevent problems often associated with dry air. Experts suggest homes have a humidity level of 30-50 percent. To maintain that humidity level when running your heating system, you’ll also need to run a humidifier. There are several options, ranging from portable units that can be moved from room to room to whole-house systems that work with your heating system.

A (properly installed) whole-house humidification system is the more efficient option because it distributes appropriately conditioned air to every room in the house, whereas a portable unit humidifies just one room at a time. It also requires little to no maintenance after installation — relying on your home’s plumbing and electrical systems for the required water and electricity for operation. A portable humidifier is freestanding and ranges in size from a small table-top model to a floor model. A portable humidifier has its own water supply and simply plugs into any standard electrical outlet, but it tends

By Robbie Matiak

to involve more maintenance. Ideally, you should add water daily (distilled or de-mineralized water is recommended), clean it often, and change the filter according to manufacturer’s recommendations (or more frequently).

Your house will feel warmer by maintaining the ideal humidity level as well. Low humidity makes the air feel colder because it holds less water. Conversely, the warmer the air is the more water it can hold — thus, the warmer it feels. That’s why it can feel like 110 degrees outside in the summer, even though the temperature is only 95 degrees.

Preserving the most comfortable home environment is important to quality of life. If your family suffers from the effects of dry air, you may want to consider a professionally installed whole-house humidification system.

D.R.I.V.E.N.

By Chris Bryant

At the start of a new year, perhaps more than any other time, we think about wanting to be successful, accomplishing what we want, living the life we want to lead. The word we use to describe this activity is “resolution.” The resolution process needs to be more complex than we often make it, which is why our New Year’s resolutions often don’t make it past a week or two.

It is important that we look forward and see the perspective of tomorrow as best we can and then live into that perspective today. Christian spirituality seeks our doing this all the time, not just at the new year. In fact, part of the power of Jesus’ famous parables

is they have a way of forcing us to do this very thing, to see the present from the perspective of the future, and more often than not we are surprised by what we see. Then we have a choice to make about what we should do.

In 2015, what do you imagine a successful year to look like? What about a fulfilling one? What is worth being driven by it in order to achieve it? Or, what has the power to drive you?

If I could help at all, I would make the following suggestion using the acronym D.R.I.V.E.N. Decide what is most important. Realize what must

be done. Initiate your plan daily. Visualize what the future will look like. Encourage someone else. Never quit.

I believe the Bible gives insightful reasons for why each of these points is important to achieving the life you want to lead and specifically how to carry them through. In any case, for the best 2015 you can strive for, be candid with yourself and intentional about what truly is your greatest motivation.

Book Review

by cAtherINe groVes

‘ tony the Kneebreaker’

In Woodstock (Ga.) resident Ed Gruber’s novella, “Tony the Kneebreaker,” we meet the Lowenstein brothers: Joey, Freddie, and Ira. For more years than anyone can remember, they have been the owners and operators of JIF Banana Trucking. One of their nearest and dearest friends, Tony, comes to them for help, and the brothers find themselves in a quandary.

For 20 years, Tony has represented “The Boys” on the docks of the Hudson River. He has beaten up welchers and many other “problem customers” for years; it is the only career he’s ever had. He is paid, and paid well, to change the minds of business owners who miss their payments. He has seen too much and knows too much; he wants out. He’s found God in a new way, he is tired of lying to his wife, and his conscious is at war knowing he’s lying to his son.

The streets surrounding the New York Harbor are home to “The Boys” and the Lowensteins, and Joey’s chance meeting with “the Boss” at the tender age of 14 started a relationship that has lasted for decades. Although Joey and his brothers decided long ago to run a clean business, there is still an unavoidable involvement with “The Boys.” As one brother states, “We pay them to protect us against them.” So, when Tony reaches out to them for help, they know they are walking a fine line.

“The Boys,” feeling they are offering a viable option to Tony that would assure his silence and loyalty forever, also involve the Lowenstein brothers by putting them in a potential lifetime of doing the type of unethical business they’ve always avoided.

Tony and the brothers, along with their seductive secretary, come up with a plan — but it all falls apart at the seams.

Ed Gruber’s “Tony the Kneebreaker” hosts fictional characters that were a part of Gruber’s life growing up on the streets of New York City. It is easy to get lost in the authentic and mesmerizing story, characters, and style of Gruber’s “Tony the Kneebreaker.” For those looking for something different, real, and exciting, this is the book to read!

“Tony the Kneebreaker” can be purchased through Amazon, Kindle, Nook, Barnes and Nobles, and at DeedsPublishing.com.

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the pressure on the nerve is significant and sustained enough to disturb the way the ulnar nerve works.

Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms usually include pain, numbness and/or tingling. Numbness or tingling most often occurs in the ring and little fingers.

You may notice weakness while pinching, occasional clumsiness, and/or the tendency to drop things. In severe cases, you may lose sensation and the muscles in the hand may lose bulk and strength.

Diagnosis

A Hand Specialist will assess the pattern and distribution of your symptoms, and examine for muscle weakness, irritability of the nerve to tapping and/or bending of the elbow, and changes in sensation. He may also need to evaluate other conditions, such as thyroid disease or diabetes.

By Jose Baez, M.D.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome is brought on by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow. The ulnar nerve passes under a bump of bone on the inner portion of the elbow (medial epicondyle, or “funny bone”). At this site, the ulnar nerve lies directly next to the bone and is susceptible to pressure. When the pressure on the nerve becomes great enough to affect the way the nerve works, then numbness, tingling, and pain may be felt in the elbow, forearm, hand, and/ or fingers.

What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

The ulnar nerve is positioned right next to a bone that has very little padding. Pressure on this bone can put pressure on this nerve. Below are a few examples:

• If you lean your arm against a table on the inner part of your elbow, your

arm may fall asleep and be painful from sustained pressure on the nerve. If this occurs repetitively, the numbness and pain may be more persistent.

• Sometimes the ulnar nerve at the elbow clicks back and forth over the bony bump as the elbow is straightened. If this occurs repetitively, the nerve may be significantly irritated.

• Pressure on the ulnar nerve can also occur from holding the elbow in a bent position for a long time, stretching the nerve across the medial epicondyle. Sustained bending of the elbow tends to occur during sleep.

• Sometimes the connective tissue over the nerve grows thicker, or there may be variations of the muscle structure over the nerve at the elbow that cause pressure on the nerve.

Cubital Tunnel Treatment

Sometimes symptoms can be relieved without surgery, particularly if the EMG/ NCS testing shows that the pressure on the nerve is minimal. Hand Specialist may suggest:

• Changing the patterns of elbow use,

• Avoiding putting your elbow on hard surfaces,

• Wearing an elbow pad over the ulnar nerve and “funny bone,”

• Keeping the elbow straight at night with a splint.

If you’re suffering from cubital tunnel syndrome, contact a Hand Specialist to make an appointment today. Dr. Jose Baez is a physician with Atlanta Hand Specialist, located in Canton, Marietta, Smyrna, and Douglasville. 770-333-7888, AtlantaHandSpecialist.com

Dancing offers BenefitsPhysical & Social

While you’re relaxing and enjoying TV shows like “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars,” don’t forget that you can discover a great way to keep your body and mind healthy by getting off the couch and dancing yourself. Studies show that dancing can help people of all ages and physical abilities maintain a healthy weight, stay flexible, reduce stress, make friends, and more. Dance involves

a greater range of motion, coordination, strength and endurance than many other physical activities. The repetitive movements involved in dance improve muscle tone, correct poor posture, increase balance and coordination, and improve cardiovascular health. Simply put, dancing just doesn’t feel like exercise, yet total body fitness improves while dancers are happily lost in the music.

Dancing is also a brain booster! Studies show adolescents who regularly participate in dance lessons typically perform better academically than their nonparticipating peers. Researchers are learning that regular physical activity keeps your brain healthy as you age. Exercise increases the level of brain chemicals that encourage nerve cells to grow. Dancing that requires you to remember dance steps and sequences also boosts brain power by improving memory skills. Because physical activity reduces stress and tension, regular dancing gives an overall sense of well-being.

Imagine a shy pre-teen lifting his partner, and together they hit the final pose in the

the Benefits of Massage

According to the American Institute of Stress, “numerous emotional and physical disorders have been linked to stress, including depression, anxiety, and immune system disturbances…In fact, it’s hard to think of any disease in which stress cannot play an aggravating role.”

We all have our own relationship with this little word, “stress,” and we all have the knots to prove it. Our bodies ache, our minds cloud, and our feet drag behind. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel; it’s called massage.

Massage addresses physical ailments by relaxing muscle tension and increasing circulation, which helps with increased inflammation. There are physiological benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and helping with anxiety and depression. There

also are mental benefits that come from a complete state of relaxation.

The individual benefits aside, understanding why massage is so effective can give us a bigger picture of the true nature of massage’s healing nature.

Muscle manipulation techniques, such as effleurage and compression, release tension within the muscle fibers, which creates flexibility and movement within the joints. This release in tension facilitates quicker healing of injured, over-used muscles and relieves pain caused by prolonged inflammation, which is part of the body’s natural healing process. By relaxing the muscles the therapist is enabling the individual’s ability to function through the parasympathetic of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

Hip Hop number. A circle of 3-year-olds “butterfly stretch” and listen patiently while each dancer names her favorite color of imaginary wings. Adult tap dancers sweat, laugh and encourage each other to pick up the rhythm of their new step. The physical benefits of dance are enhanced by the social enjoyment of dancing with others in any setting. So, get up off that couch, crank up the volume and shake a leg! Once you start dancing, you might not want to stop!

Dancentre South inc. 1000 Woodstock Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-7229

6115 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 770-213-8091

DancentreSouth.com

By Jericka Jones, massage therapist

The ANS is made up of two subdivisions: the sympathetic and the parasympathetic. The sympathetic is generally associated with the fight/flight response, and the parasympathetic with sedating the body and restoring it to the resting state it was in prior to sympathetic stimulation.

This means that by physically relaxing the muscles, we are giving our bodies a chance to find homeostasis, which creates balance within the structures of the body.

Lav ida Massage

6175 Hickory Flat Hwy., Suite 180 Canton 770-345-1200 Lav idaMassageCantonGa.com

Gymnastics: A Foundation for Fitness and Sport

Have you ever wondered what types of exercises you can do with young children that will introduce them to fitness and sports and also be a lot of fun? Well, gymnastics is the answer. Regardless of what sports or fitness activities your child may want to do as they grow older, gymnastics can set the foundation. Children as young as 18 months can enjoy participating in gymnastics classes, and the benefits for life are wonderful.

Gymnastics develops coordination, strength, flexibility and special awareness, and is an individual activity that allows for different rates of progression. In gymnastics, children will not only develop skills but also learn life lessons, such as listening to directions, waiting for a turn, celebrating the accomplishment of others, selfdiscipline and self-confidence.

Since early gymnastics doesn’t involve competition, young children can learn skills and progressions at their own speed. Additionally, gymnastics is one of the few sports that works the whole body, so children are developing strength and flexibility that can be used for any other sport or activity. In gymnastics, children are introduced to many different types of apparatus and basic life skills, such as running, jumping, and climbing — all in a safe environment with lots of padding.

The most important aspect of gymnastics for young children is that it is lots of fun! Children are introduced to new activities in almost every class, and the possibilities for fun while getting some exercise are endless. The gymnastics center is like a giant playground, except that each piece of equipment is padded for maximum safety and instructors are required to be Safety Certified. In gymnastics, one of the first things children learn is how to fall down without getting hurt. We are all going to fall at times in life, and usually it is a scary feeling, but knowing how to fall is also a great tool to have for the future.

If you want a fun activity for your children that is sure to set them up for a lifestyle of fitness, exercise and sport, then look no further than your local gymnastics center.

Georgia All-Star Gymnastics 105 Arnold Mill Park, Woodstock 770-516-2654, Ga-AllStars.com

Martial Arts Offer

Physical, Mental, Emotional & Social Development

There are several advantages to studying martial arts. One of the most important exercise benefits associated with martial arts is cardiovascular health. The aerobic workouts can help with weight loss and increase muscle tone. In fact, the entire muscle system of the body is used in martial arts, although injuries and strains are rare. Also, martial arts tend to exchange flabby fat tissue for lean tissue, rather than producing large muscles. Martial arts’ high repetition also produces maximum endurance and well-being. The exercise one gets from martial arts training also improves balance, flexibility, stamina, and posture. Martial arts also teach leadership, respect, perseverance, and self-defense. The martial arts can also teach children self-discipline and socialization skills.

There are several forms of martial arts that include fitness and focus exercises. Karate uses striking techniques, punching, kicking, and open-handed techniques. Tae Kwon Do, developed as a military art, involves learning a system of blocks, kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes; forms of take-downs; throws; and joint locks. These techniques help develop strength, speed, balance, flexibility, stamina and focus. Judo is a competitive sport that uses balance and leverage to throw an opponent. Participants develop self-control and respect for their opponents. Jujitsu is a competitive form of self-defense using the opponent’s weight and strength against him. Aikido is similar to Jujitsu, but is noncompetitive and teaches discipline and how to work with a partner. Kung Fu is a fast and physical form of karate that provides an aerobic workout through fluid movements. T’ai Chi focuses on balance, stretching and weight-bearing moves that boost flexibility and improve concentration skills. Choi Kwang Do is a unique martial art based on scientific principles and developed to promote optimum health, fitness and self-defense in a noncompetitive environment. Choi Kwang Do is meant for the average individual who wants to learn real-life, practical self-defense skills and achieve a greater level of health and well-being. Choi Kwang Do stresses mental, physical, emotional, and social development.

Martial arts offer a great form of exercise. Check out the local centers and see which offers you and your child the best environment for safe, fun exercise with the added benefit of social skills and self-discipline.

Towne Lake Choi Kwang Do 2990 Eagle Drive, Woodstock 770-928-8557, TowneLakeCKD.com

Dance Studio

dancentre south

770-516-7229, DancentreSouth.com

Day Spa/Massage

Lavida massage

770-345-1200, LavidaMassageCantonGa.com

Fitness/Health Club

Lifetime Fitness

770-926-7544, LifetimeFitness.com/En/Clubs/WoodstockMountain-Brook-Ga/Your-lt.html

Martial Arts Center towne Lake choi Kwang do  678-900-5035, TowneLakeCKD.com Fit NE ss &

Gymnastics Center

g A All- star gymnastics

770-516-2654, Ga-AllStars.com

Health Food Store

All About Health

678-445-9377, AllAboutHealth.com

Winter Survival Guide: 5 Essential Haircare Tips

LIFESTYLE

Have you noticed that nature’s signs this year – like extra-bushy squirrel tails – all point to a long, cold winter? When a harsh winter strikes, Jack Frost not only nips at your nose but also at your hair! Your haircare routine should vary with the seasons. Here are a few tips for keeping your hair healthy and vibrant until spring rolls around again:

1

Wash Hair Less Often: While nothing feels better than a nice steamy shower after a cold day, too-thorough hair washing can eliminate the natural oils that protect your hair from the cold. Regulate this delicate balance in the wintertime by washing hair less often, perhaps every other day.

Use a Moisturizing Conditioner: Depending on your exposure to the elements, you may find that your hair still needs conditioning daily, even with less washing. If so, be sure to use a conditioner with extra moisturizing power.

2

Schedule a Monthly Deep Conditioning Treatment: Winter is the time of year when deep conditioning treatments are imperative for almost everyone. Remember to make an appointment with your stylist for a monthly treatment and you’ll really notice the difference come springtime. A conditioning treatment with concentrated amounts of protein, lipids and glucose can provide maximum benefit for someone with dry hair.

Tell Mom She was Right… And Wrong: Sure, you don’t really catch a cold from going outside with a wet head (colds come from germs!), but you can catch something even longer lasting than the rhinovirus: broken hair and split ends. Be sure to dry your hair all the way before going outside, even if that means waking up earlier or washing your hair the night before.

4 3 5

Go Shopping: Speaking of damaging your hair, even mild exposure to the elements can leave your locks limp. Invest in a winter hat or scarf – natural fibers are best –to alleviate some of the damage. One more thing: Never use a hat as an excuse to leave the house with a wet head. A hat on wet hair can damage your tresses even more.

Treatments for Tooth Decay

By Vishant Nath, D.M.D.

Guiding your child to develop good dental hygiene habits can go a long way toward preventing tooth decay. Brushing each morning and evening before bedtime, daily flossing, and twice yearly dental visits help to keep teeth healthy and strong. Visiting the dentist every six months for professional cleanings and exams is also very important, as this is an opportunity for your child’s dentist to point out any areas that may be developing decay. When this happens, there are a variety of treatment options, often depending on the severity of the decay.

Sometimes the decay of the tooth is too far along to be repaired with a simple filling. If this is the case, your child’s dentist may plan for a crown procedure. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that can be placed on top of the tooth, once the decayed portion of the tooth is removed. The purpose of the crown is to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance. Crowns can be made of a variety of materials, including stainless steel, porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of these substances. The stainless steel crowns are most commonly used since they require the least amount of tooth removal before placement. The white (Zirconia) crowns designed for baby teeth require much more removal of tooth structure for a precise fit or occlusion. The pediatric dentist will have the best recommendation for your child’s dental treatment needs.

Sometimes, tooth decay is so severe that it leads to an infection of the tooth. When this occurs, a baby root canal (pulpotomy) may be recommended. In this procedure, the infected pulp of the tooth is removed to stop the infection and promote healing.

All of these procedures can help to repair the tooth. However, it is important to remember that once tooth decay occurs, the overall strength of the tooth has been compromised. Whether your child receives a filling, crown, or root canal (pulpotomy), special attention must be paid to the restored tooth in order to preserve the integrity of the treatment. Talk to your pediatric dentist about how to best care for the affected tooth so that the treatment can last.

678-352-1090, KidsHappyTeeth.com

and Ground RibbonBreakingsCuttings

We Got a Puppy for Christmas

By Lorre LaMarca

Getting a new puppy for Christmas is an exciting time in a family. I love to hear the wonderful stories of that special day when they brought their new puppy home and how the children’s faces lit up when they saw their new puppy for the first time; picking out the perfect name; arguing over who gets to hold the puppy, sleep with the puppy, walk the puppy, feed the puppy. Bringing a new puppy into the home is a wonderful, magical time for everyone.

Now a month later, kids are back to school and parents are back to their normal routines. Schedules become tighter than ever — not to mention adding a new routine of puppyhood care to the home. All of a sudden, the new puppy is chewing things, barking for

attention, staying up all night, and things just don’t seem as magical anymore.

daycare for exercise and socialization, as well as professional training. Use these resources for advice if you are not quite sure what to do.

To avoid this fork in the road, the key is preparation. If you are reading this, rest assured that it’s never too late. It is critical each member of your family sit down together to agree on a dedicated schedule of care for the new puppy. An hour each day should be devoted to a combination of exercise and obedience training. Outside of that hour, add a schedule of different times for potty training walks, feeding, playing and loving. If time just keeps squeezing you, there are many resources to help balance out your puppy’s daily schedule, such as doggy

Every day that your puppy is not learning from you or a professional trainer, it is teaching itself and reinforcing bad behavior. Think about your long-term plan and everyone in the household contributing equally.

The true magic of dog ownership is the pride you have once your dog has developed into a happy, well-balanced and well-behaved dog. The magic of unconditional love is the reward for the investment of the time and dedication to puppyhood!

Ready to Make a Cancer-Fighting Grocery List? 8

Delicious Ways to Boost Cancer Protection

By Andrea Addington

There’s no magic food that prevents cancer outright, but there are certain foods known to inhibit our risk and help our bodies fight this horrible disease.

Do you want to amp up cancer protection in your diet? Here are eight specific foods to get you in the right direction:

Broccoli: Packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals, including sulforophane. “Sulforophane is proposed to stimulate enzymes that help detoxify potential carcinogens,” says Colleen Doyle, MS, RD, of the American Cancer Society. Other cruciferous vegetables, like cauliflower and kale, are also rich in sulforophane.

Salmon: Coldwater fish, such as salmon, have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. The highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids are found in free-range wild game; the colder the temperature where they are found, the higher the omega-3 levels will be. Other coldwater fish include char, sardines, tuna, herring, anchovies, bluefish and halibut.

Carrots: High in beta carotene, which helps plants absorb light. Beta carotene

accumulates in the fat under the skin and seems to absorb some of the radiation energy from sunlight, possibly reducing the risk of skin cancer. Squash, pumpkin and green, leafy vegetables are other sources of beta carotene.

Walnuts: High in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts have 2.5 grams of omega-3 fat per ounce. Most other nuts have around 0.5 grams per ounce. Aim for 5 ounces of walnuts a week.

Flax: Rich in fiber and omega-3 fats, flax contains compounds called lignans, which help inhibit estrogen production and may reduce the risk of breast cancer and other female cancers. Grind a tablespoon or two of flaxseeds in a coffee grinder and mix it into cereal or a smoothie, or include it when baking bread or cookies.

Tomatoes: High in antioxidants and the phytochemical lycopene, which can prevent cellular damage and abnormal cell replication and growth. Lycopene is best absorbed in cooked tomato

products. In a Harvard study, men who ate two or more servings a week of tomato sauce or other cooked tomato products had a 20 percent less chance of developing prostate cancer. Lycopene may also reduce breast cancer risk, and is found in red grapefruit and watermelon, as well as tomatoes.

Onions: Along with garlic, onions contain the phytochemical allicin. Allicin acts as an antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial agent, and may zap toxins related to cancer development.

Blueberries: High in ellagic acid, a phenolic compound. Phenolics are a category of phytochemicals that protect cells from free radical damage, Doyle says. Other sources are red grapes, raspberries, strawberries and blackberries. Berries are also a powerful antioxidant.

more information, call 404-236-8036 or visit Northside.com/ Nutrition.

Artist Profile

by heIKe hellmANN-broWN

Mysticism and Symbolism Conveyed in Clay

Clay artist Phoebe Maze has always been intrigued by stories that formed the foundation of societies, such as Adam and Eve, Noah, by religious symbolisms, fantasy and mythology. “As an army brat, I lived in Germany during my childhood. Many values and educational lessons in this society were conveyed through the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. As a young girl I was fascinated by those stories.”

Phoebe’s mother, a painter, inspired Phoebe to

explore her artistic potential. “I have always been an artist in a certain sense — I just did not know how to express it,” explains Maze, who majored in art. “I enjoyed learning about the creative process and tried different outlets. Painting eventually led me to clay, because I always wanted to reach into the paint and rearrange it.”

Maze has worked in clay since the late ‘80s. In the beginning she used models to make life-size busts or small figures, but her interest changed to animals, mythology, and architecture.

“Sometimes I have a path in mind, certain ideas that I want to bring to fruition. But, often I let the clay tell me what to do, and I become lost in the creative process,” Maze says. “Interestingly, it’s often the cut-off scraps that define the piece by becoming an intricate part of the decoration.” Maze also experiments with metal inclusions or glass pieces that bear the element of surprise, because she can never really tell if they melt or retain their original form.

Today, Maze’s 3D-work, either as clay sculptures or dioramas, is often inspired by her frequent travels to far countries, from Middle America to Europe and the Far East. “I take guided tours, but afterward I explore the country on my own,” says Maze, who recently visited Nepal. Her travels to Asia inspired a collection of temples. “The locals create small outdoor temples to commemorate hikers who died climbing Mt. Everest. I also became fascinated with the eye symbol, which is used as a talisman in several cultures. Buddha will protect you and avoid evil, but, at the same time, he will watch you.” Her work also explores the image of the heart as a symbol in different cultures and incorporates images of the Chinese Terracotta Warriors into architectural framework.

In her spare time, Maze enjoys renovating old houses. “Currently, I oversee the renovation of a 1909 farmhouse in Waleska that I intend to bring back to its original beauty.” Her interest in architecture also influences her clay pieces, for instance, by giving functional boxes an architectural flair.

Maze and her late husband owned “Maze Studio,” a gallery in Atlanta. Now, she displays her work during exhibits and was a featured artist at the High Museum’s Artist Studio Tour. Maze is on the board of directors of the Cherokee Arts Center and was a judge at Cherokee Arts Festival and Riverfest. She is also a past president of the Georgia Clay Council.

Facebook.com/Phoebe.Maze?fref=ts

Bird Feeding in the Winter

By Gail Roos

OK, I admit it; I feed the birds in winter for selfish reasons. It’s for my entertainment. I love to see which ones return as it gets cold; they’re like old friends passing through town and stopping for a snack. I position my office chair for best viewing.

Here in north Georgia, some winters are harsh. Predictions are that this winter will be one of those, and food sources will be scarce. Bird stores have lots of seed choices and the seed is fresh. Black oil sunflower seed will attract lots of birds, and it’s relatively inexpensive. I buy niger seed for the finches and safflower seed because the squirrels won’t eat it. Birds need a bit of fat in winter, so I serve them suet. Occasionally, I soak a couple of slices of bread in bacon grease and put it in the tray feeder. You probably have some natural food in your yard; the birds like the berries on my American beautyberry and on my hollies.

When you buy a feeder, make sure it’s easy to clean — meaning, it’s easy to disassemble and reassemble. Tube feeders should have an easy way to remove the bottom. I keep it clean longer by adding a layer of sand in the bottom. My favorite feeders are plastic because they’re easier to clean. Birds need water in the winter, too. To keep the water from freezing, I use a heating device or a de-icer, which can be purchased at bird stores for less than $45.

It’s fun to see the “pecking” order. Some birds will eat together; some won’t. The nuthatches spread their wings and weave like a cobra to scare others off. In addition to my familiar Carolina chickadees and tufted titmice, soon I’ll see the dark-eyed junco, the Eastern towhee, and the ruby crowned kinglet.

So, I’m ready. I’ve hung the feeders, filled the birdbath, and have my chair by the window. I set the table and the birds will graciously entertain me.

Downtown Woodstock: A History Lesson

By Kyle Bennett

Downtown

Woodstock has seen tremendous changes in recent years. Seemingly every month the excitement builds over the latest stores and restaurants to open their doors for business, a new festival debuting, a new trail opening, and so on and so on. But, with most eyes focused on the exciting future in store for Downtown Woodstock, it can be easy to overlook the fascinating history that can be discovered in Woodstock.

until 1929? Go back farther and you will witness a time period where Main Street was traversed by cars, riders on horseback, and horse-drawn carriages and wagons. That doesn’t even factor in pedestrians walking and the train passing by. Now, that sounds like one historic traffic jam!

For instance, did you know that Woodstock was home to two Rhodes scholars: Dean Rusk, U.S. secretary of state under the John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson presidencies; and Eugene Booth, atomic scientist who was involved with the Manhattan Project and the development of the atomic bomb? It is amazing to think that a small town like Woodstock produced two winners of this prestigious honor!

Traffic is often discussed now in Woodstock, but even in a topic like traffic you can find interesting historical tidbits about Woodstock. Did you know that Main Street in Downtown Woodstock wasn’t paved

You can see with your own eyes the history of Woodstock in the buildings of Downtown Woodstock. The current Woodstock Train Depot, which is now home to a restaurant,

opened in 1912. The original depot sat a few yards north of today’s structure on the west side of the tracks, and was probably built in 1879, the year railroad construction reached Woodstock. The Woodstock Train Depot is the only building located in

Woodstock that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Another building in Woodstock of historic note is the Dean House. Built in 1875, the Dean House is the oldest residential house in Woodstock. The Dean House, located next to the Park at City Center in Downtown Woodstock, is now home to the Cherokee Ledger News.

The next time you are in Downtown Woodstock enjoying a meal at one of the great new restaurants, shopping at the wonderful stores, or having fun at a festival, keep in mind that you are standing amongst the history that has helped shape all that we love about Woodstock!

For those interested in the history of Woodstock, consider becoming involved with Preservation Woodstock Inc. This organization is dedicated to preserving the history of Woodstock for future generations. For more information on Preservation Woodstock, call 770-924-0406, or attend their next meeting, 7:00 p.m., January 12, at the Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store.

Kyle Bennett is director of tourism and operations for the Woodstock Visitors Center. 770-924-0406, KBennett@WoodstockGa.gov

Exercise Benefits During Pregnancy

By Kristen Leezer, M.D.

It’s common to overindulge during the festive holiday season. Many of us seek to lose those pesky extra pounds by adding a few more trips to the gym or working a little harder on our daily run. While exercise is an important part of wellness, many pregnant women mistakenly believe that exercise should be kept to a minimum. In fact, this couldn’t be farther from the truth!

with exercise. Exercise may lead to better posture, muscle tone, strength and endurance — all qualities that will help with the labor process. Sleep may even come easier to ladies who regularly pound the pavement!

safe to continue. However, pregnancy is not the time to start a new training regimen. Check with your doctor about your own preferred method of exercise at the beginning of your pregnancy — you are likely to find plenty of healthy, enjoyable ways to stay in shape!

The benefits of exercise in normal pregnancy are substantial. Put simply, exercise helps the expectant mom feel better. Exercise reduces backaches, constipation, bloating and swelling. It increases energy and improves mood. Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes can be prevented or treated

Most exercises done before pregnancy are safe to continue, with exception of activities in which there is a high risk of falling or limiting your oxygen. For example, gymnastics, skiing, horseback riding, scuba diving and contact sports are best to be avoided until after delivery. Walking, swimming and aerobics are all great ways to get moving. If you were a runner before pregnancy, it is perfectly

General safety guidelines include starting slow if it has been a while since you exercised regularly; staying hydrated; avoiding heat and humidity; wearing a supportive bra; and consuming the recommended amount of calories. Stop exercising and call your health care provider immediately if you experience any pain; weakness; shortness of breath; leakage or bleeding from the vagina; feeling faint; or any other concerns.

Ingredients (butter)

½ pound of softened unsalted butter

½ cup blue cheese crumbles

¼ cup horseradish

Preparation

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon (each) salt and pepper

Place all butter ingredients in a mixing bowl or food processor and mix thoroughly.

Make a mixture of equal parts blackening seasoning and brown sugar. Cover steak generously with seasoning.

In a skillet, add some oil and a little butter.

Sear the steak until you have a nice crust on each side.

If necessary, cook the rest of the way in a preheated oven to your desired temperature.

Plate your steak, top with compound butter and serve with your choice of side.

Serve with either a nice glass of red wine or — a great choice in these colder months — a good bourbon!

Simple Gestures Make Big Impact

By Crystal Bryant

January is the start of a new month and a new year. Many people view January as a time for a fresh start, or a time to begin something new. January is a month of optimism and opportunities — at least it is for many people.

For some, January is a month of loneliness, a month without hope or chances for something new. It is a month to look back with longing to what once was or what could have been. It is a month that reminds people of what they do not have or what was taken from them.

Many people feel a loss of purpose for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the holidays are the only times loved ones come to visit throughout the year, and the end of the holiday season reminds them of how alone they are. Others may have been alone during the holidays as well, and the loneliness of watching families and friends gather and celebrate felt overwhelming.

It’s easy to get lost in the holiday hustle and bustle, the glimmering lights and glittering packages, and miss the sadness and longing in the faces we pass. Now that the holiday rush is over and a new year is upon us, isn’t this a good time to help make the new year brighter for those who are feeling lonely?

As we embrace the optimism, new opportunities, and fresh start that the new year brings, let’s challenge ourselves to continue the spirit of the holidays by reaching out to others. Could we add a phone call, card or email to just two people to tell them we are thinking of them? Could we share with just two people a kind gesture or word of encouragement to show them that they are not forgotten?

Think about the people in your life who have brought you the most joy. Then, think about the void that would be in your life if those moments were suddenly gone. Now, go and be the reason that others find renewed hope and joy in their lives. A simple gesture in one small moment could make a big difference in the world!

Religious Services

Baptist

Calvary Baptist

137 Hightower Rd., Ball Ground 770-887-6982, CalvaryBaptistWeb.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Cherokee Baptist Church

7770 Hickory Flat Hwy., Woodstock 770-720-3399, CherokeeBaptistChurch.org

Sunday Services: 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Community Baptist Church

152 Rolling Hills Ave., Canton Community-Baptist-Church.com

Sunday Service: 1:30 p.m.

Cross Roads Community Church 2317 Bascomb Carmel Rd., Woodstock 770-592-7007

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Cross Roads Primitive Baptist Church 770-710-1068, CrossroadsPBC.org

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Faith Community Church

669 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-516-1996, FaithCommunityChurch.org

Sunday Services: 8:00 & 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Mt. Olive Baptist Church

131 Mill St., Woodstock 770-928-1334

Mount Zion Baptist Church

4096 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-479-3324, MTZB.org

Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Mountain v iew Baptist Church

8991 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-880-0871, MV-Batist.com

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

New Home Baptist Church Corner of Hwy. 92 & Wiley Bridge Rd., Woodstock

New v ictoria Baptist Church 6659 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8448, NewVicBaptist.org

Sunday Service: 10:50 a.m.

South Cherokee Baptist Church 7504 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422

Stonecrest Baptist Church

485 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8820, StonecrestBaptist.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Toonigh Baptist Church 4999 Old Hwy. 5, Lebanon 770-928-2491

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Welcome All Baptist Church 545 Stell Rd., Woodstock 404-210-7130

Woodstock First Baptist Church 11905 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428, FBCW.org

Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Catholic

Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church 2941 Sam Nelson Rd., Canton 770-479-8923, LaSaletteCanton.com

Sunday Services: 8:00, 10:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (Español)

St. Michael the Archangel

490 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-516-0009, SaintMichaelCC.org

Sunday Services: 7:30, 9:00, 11:00 a.m., 12:45, 5:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. (Español)

Episcopal

Christ the Redeemer Episcopal Church 2135 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 404-395-5003, CTRCEC.com

Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Episcopal Church of the Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Rd., Marietta 770-928-7916, AnnunciationEpiscopal.org

Sunday Services: 8:30, 10:00 a.m.

Saint Clement’s Episcopal Church 2795 Ridge Rd., Canton 770-345-6722, StClementsCanton.org

Sunday Services: 8:00, 9:00, 11:00 a.m.

Jewish

Chabad Jewish Center

4255 Wade Green Rd. NW, Ste. 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702, JewishWoodstock.com

Introductory Service: 1st Shabbat of each month at 11:00 a.m.; Traditional Service: 3rd Shabbat of each month at 10:30 a.m.

Congregation Ner Tamid

Reform Jewish Congregation

Contact us for High Holiday service times & dates 678-264-8575, MyNerTamid.org

Lutheran

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA

1208 Rose Creek Dr., Woodstock 770-924-7286, GoodShepherdWoodstock.org

Sunday Services: 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Timothy Lutheran Church (LC-MS)

556 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-928-2812, TLCWoodstock.org

Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Orthodox

St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church 2263 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-485-0504, StElizabethGA.org

Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Methodist

Bascomb United Methodist Church 2295 Bascomb Carmel Rd., Woodstock 770-926-9755, BascombUMC.org

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Big Springs United Methodist 2066 Sugar Pike Rd., Woodstock 770-475-1796

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

City On A Hill: A United Methodist Church 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480, COAHUMC.org

Sunday Services: 9:35 & 11:15 a.m.

Hickory Flat United Methodist Church 4056 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-345-5969, HickoryFlat.org

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:30 a.m.

Hillside United Methodist Church 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-924-4777, HillsideUMC.org

Sunday Services: 8:30, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Liberty Hill Church 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920, LibertyHillUMC.org

Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Little River United Methodist Church 12455 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495, LittleRiverUMC.info

Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Mount Gilead United Methodist Church 889 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-0837

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Mountain v iew United Methodist Church 2300 Jamerson Rd., Marietta 770-928-0050, MVUMC.org

Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Woodstock United Methodist Church 109 Towne Lake Pkwy., Woodstock 770-516-0371, GBGM-UMC.org/WoodstockUMC-GA

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Non-denominational

BridgePointe Church

230 Arnold Mill Rd., Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977, BridgePointeChurch.org

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.

Presbyterian

Cherokee Presbyterian Church, PCA 1498 Johnson Brady Rd., Canton 770-704-9594, Cherokee-PCA.org

Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Christ Covenant Presbyterian of Woodstock (PCA)

Meets in the Rec Center of Cherokee County’s Smith L. Johnson South Annex Complex in Woodstock 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock 770-926-1196, CC-PCA.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Grace Church, PCA 1160 Butterworth Rd., Canton 770-265-5811, GraceCanton.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-926-3558, HeritagePres.com

Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11:10 a.m.

Woodstock Presbyterian Church 345 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-0074

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Other Churches

Allen Temple, AME Church 232 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-6348, AllenTempleAME.org Sunday Services: 8:00 & 11:00 a.m., Nursery available

AllPoints Community Church 6884 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton 770-704-0945, AllPointsChurch.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Bells Ferry Church of God 6718 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-592-2956, BellsFerry.com Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Rd., Acworth 770-917-4964, BranchesOfChrist.com Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Canton Church of Christ 1168 Hickory Flat Hwy., Canton 706-299-1347, CantonChurchOfChrist.com Sunday Services: 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Catalyst Church

9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-516-7070, CatalystOnline.tv Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Cherokee Seventh Day Adventist 101 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-7304, Cherokee.NetAdvent.org Saturday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Christ the King Church of Greater Atlanta 6464 Hwy. 92, Acworth 770-924-9161, CTKAtlanta.com

Church at North Gate

9876 Main St., Ste. 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193, NGCA.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 3459 E. Cherokee Dr., Canton 770-720-9574

Sunday Service: 1:00 p.m.

Church of the Messiah

415 Charles Cox Dr., Canton 770-479-5280, ChurchOfTheMessiah.net Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Cornerstone Community Church

503 Hickory Ridge Trl., Ste. 160, Woodstock CCChurchOnline.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Covenant Christian Center

330 Adam Jenkins Memorial Dr., Canton 770-345-0307, CityOfCovenant.org Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Covenant of Peace Ministries

604 Industrial Ct., Woodstock 770-821-8972, CovenantOfPeace.org Sunday Service: 12:00 p.m.

Dayspring Church

6835 Victory Dr., Acworth 770-516-5733, Dayspring-Online.com

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation

2799 Holly Springs Rd., Marietta 770-578-1533, EmersonUU.org

Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:30 a.m.

Empowerment Tabernacle Christian Church

507 Industrial Dr., Woodstock 770-928-7478, EmpowermentTabernacle.com Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Grace Life Church

655 Molly Lane, Ste. 140, Woodstock 404-509-3397, GraceLifeOnline.org Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Greater Bethel Community Church

211 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-592-9900

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Hickory Flat Church of God 947 Bailey Rd., Woodstock 678-691-9165

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

His Hands Church

550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500, HisHandsChurch.com

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Love Community Church

5598 Bells Ferry Rd. Acworth 404-663-1828, LoveCommunityChurch.org

Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Momentum Church

110 Londonderry Ct., Ste. 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919, MomentumChurch.tv

Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.

Morning Star Church

1006 Owens Store Rd., Canton 678-794-7486, MorningStarCanton.com

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Mt. Paran North Canton Campus

Meets at Sequoyah High School, 4485 Hickory Rd., Canton 678-285-3288, MPNCanton.com

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Relevate Church 999 Jep Wheeler Rd., Woodstock 678-238-1488, RelevateChurchInt.org

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Resurrection Anglican Church

231 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-591-0040, RezWoodstock.org

Sunday Service: 10:00 a.m.

Revolution Church

125 Union Hill Trl., Canton 770-345-2737, TheRevolution.tv

Sunday Services: 8:15, 9:45 & 11:15 a.m.

Sunnyside Church of God

2510 E. Cherokee Dr., Woodstock 770-639-1018, SunnysideCOG.org

Sunday Services: 10:00 & 11:30 a.m.

Toonigh Church of God

4775 Holly Springs Pkwy., Canton 770-926-3096, ToonighCOG.org

Sunday Service: 11:00 a.m.

Towne Lake Community Church

132 N. Medical Pkwy., Woodstock 678-445-8766, TLCChurch.com

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Unity North Atlanta Church 4255 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta 678-819-9100, UnityNorth.org

Sunday Services: 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m. (Sanctuary) 11:15 a.m. (Español, Peace Chapel)

Watermarke Church

Meets at Cherokee Charter Academy (2126 Sixes Rd., Canton) 678-880-9092, WatermarkeChurch.com

Sunday Services: 9:00, 11:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.

Woodstock Christian Church 7700 Hwy. 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238, WoodstockChristian.org Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.

Woodstock Church of Christ

219 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8838, WoodstockChurchOfChrist.org

Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Rd. Woodstock 770-776-9296, WCNGA.com

Sunday Service: 10:45 a.m.

Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Rd., Woodstock 770-926-8990, WoodstockCommunityChurch.org

Sunday Service: 10:30 a.m.