Titles and Blurbs

By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

The Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO) is fortunate to have one of the finest training facilities in Georgia. The Roger D. Garrison Law Enforcement Training Center (RGLETC), named in honor of former Cherokee County Sheriff Roger Garrison, was established in 2013 to offer specialized law enforcement training for agencies throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia.  

The 42-acre campus is located in Canton next to the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center. The training division is led by Captain John Gunning, a retired command sergeant major with 28 years of military service and over 20 years as a certified Georgia peace officer. Captain Gunning has a staff of seven full-time instructors, 13 adjunct instructors, and two administrators.  

Since January of 2017, the RGLETC has supported 261 classes, nearly 20,000 law enforcement officers and deputies comprised from 26 separate federal, state, county, and city law enforcement agencies, by providing instruction, classrooms, firearms ranges, and technical support. Numerous other government agencies and charitable organizations utilize CSOs RGLETC facilities for meetings, training, and events. On any given day, the training center has nearly 50 students from at least two or three law enforcement agencies.

The firearms training complex is complete with pistol, rifle, and shotgun ranges on traditional turning target platforms and more modern computer programmed steel targets. This includes two multi-purpose ranges, a 50- and 100-yard range, a 25-yard turning target range, and a Bill Rogers computerized steel target range, 50-foot rappelling tower, and 6,500-foot indoor multipurpose building.  

Although firearms proficiency is a part of the training curriculum, de-escalation techniques are equally emphasized. A lot of time is spent training in the field, but classroom time is also an integral part of the training curriculum. The RGLETC offers students the opportunity to attend classes on ethics, Georgia and Constitutional law, first aid, community relations, and a variety of law enforcement courses required for advanced certification through the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Counsel (P.O.S.T.).

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 38-8-21) requires each peace officer to undergo 20 hours of mandatory training to include firearms, de-escalation, mental health, use of force, and community policing. Most CSO deputies receive an average of 100 hours of annual training. The CSO also hosts an annual 36-hour in-service class for all certified deputies and city officers throughout the county. This ensures deputies and officers are training on topics that are specific to the needs of our community and to their specific duty assignment.  

In order to keep the facility properly maintained, other law enforcement agencies make annual financial and equipment contributions to a designated training fund that is maintained by the CSO finance office.

In addition to training law enforcement officers from around the state, the CSO hosts an annual Sheriffs Office Citizens Academy, where citizens learn about the CSO and its function within the community.

The RGLETC also hosts a citizens firearms course through the Apple Seed Project, a program that emphasizes basic marksmanship skills, firearms safety, and history of the United States as it pertains to the 2nd Amendment. Reinhardt and Columbus State Universities are off-site campuses for their certificate, undergraduate, and graduate degrees, a partnership that helps CSO employees further their educational goals.

The Cherokee Sheriffs Office is dedicated to providing our community with the finest public safety, and the RGLETC sets the standard for all law enforcement agencies in the state of Georgia.

By Jonathan Good, Ph.D.

The engineering major asks, How does it work?

The business major asks, How much will it cost?

The liberal arts major asks, Do you want fries with that?

Most liberal arts majors have heard some version of this joke, and its always annoying in part because its somewhat true. The joke points to the dual purpose of higher education: does it exist to preserve the best that has been thought and said in our culture? To teach young people how to think and about what it means to be human? To open new vistas in human understanding?

Or does it exist to prepare people for paid employment?

At one point, you could have both a bachelors degree in any subject signaled that its holder was diligent and intelligent, and thus, suitable for white-collar work.

Unfortunately, at some point in the 20th century, politicians noticed that university graduates enjoyed a higher status and standard of income, so they figured that if everyone went to university, then everyone could enjoy a higher status and standard of income. They sponsored a vast expansion in higher education, both in terms of the number of university campuses built and in the number of people who were able to attend through grants and loans to help cover their tuition.
Universities were happy to play along. In fact, it is a major reason why university tuition fees have risen at twice the rate of inflation for the past 40 years or so. Universities are not charities; they are businesses. And even though they are not-for-profit, they hate leaving money on the table. If you get a student loan, the university will make sure that it gets every penny of that loan. Someone must pay for the new football stadium.

Alas, for the graduates themselves, the law of diminishing returns kicked in. Once bachelors degrees became both more common and more expensive, it meant that students could not afford to spend their undergraduate years developing a personal life philosophy and still expect that their degree would be worth something in the job market. Instead, their degree had to start paying off immediately.

Thus, technical and professional majors, which prepare graduates for specific fields like business management or information technology, really started to take off. Even people who were interested in the liberal arts felt they had to major in something practical, out of fear for their livelihood.

Now, it should be said that universities have not completely abandoned their other cultural purpose. They will generally require students to take a few liberal arts courses in such subjects as history, English, philosophy, or religion for the sake of polish or breadth. People who want to major in these subjects, however, are regularly condescended to. One guest speaker at Reinhardt University recently said, Whats the difference between a liberal arts major and a pizza? A pizza can feed a family of four!

However, as most liberal arts professors can safely attest based on the success of many of their past students this view is not accurate.

For one, it does no one any good to major in a subject he/she hates. Better to pursue something that youre really interested in and graduate than to drop out on account of tedium.

Secondly, the skills acquired in the pursuit of a liberal arts degree are transferrable to a wide range of careers. Chief among these is the ability to pull information from a variety of sources, to synthesize it, and to present it in a coherent and eloquent manner.

A Reinhardt University history graduate, who is a project manager at ProSys Information Systems, says that his literacy and communication skills are superior to almost everyone I work with, and credits the history program for preparing him for his job.

Another graduate worked as a property analyst in Atlanta. His employers were glad to hear that he was a liberal arts major because they knew he could think through problems and analyze situations. As he says, Every day, I craft proposals and analyses that need to be articulate and persuasive.

Of course, success in the job market still depends on the exercise of a certain amount of initiative. Holding an internship in a field youd like to enter, developing contacts there, and marketing oneself through LinkedIn are all useful. Minoring in something technical can also be a good idea.

But knowing how to think and knowing how to write will stand you in good stead wherever you end up whether thats in business, higher education, law enforcement, public administration, teaching, ministry, or health care to name a few of the fields liberal arts graduates have found careers in. Long after this years hot programming language has been made obsolete, liberal arts graduates will still have the ability to see around corners, in the words of Kevin Reinhart, professor of religion at Dartmouth College.

Blogger Joe Asch concurs, saying that, Over the years, whether in dealing with managers or lawyers or even architects and other professionals, I have found that folks with a liberal arts background understand larger issues, which people with only technical training just cant comprehend.

It might take some effort to find your first job as a liberal arts major, but chances are, youll end up performing very well in it.

Dr. Jonathan Good is a professor of history at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Reinhardt.edu

By Ashley Keegan

Its not only the motto, but also the guiding purpose of Cherokee Countys Search and Rescue team (Cherokee SAR). Volunteers are the lifeblood of this operation, but its not a typical volunteer organization.

This team requires dedication, discipline, and a desire to serve the community in a significant way. After all, its Cherokee SAR that is called to assist when citizens from Cherokee County, and sometimes citizens of surrounding counties, are missing, lost, or hurt. These volunteers understand that while SAR may not be their full-time job, it is a tremendous responsibility that potentially has life or death consequences.

The team, consisting of over 20 volunteers, is overseen by Cherokee County Fires Special Operations Chief Darrell Mitchell. Affectionately known as Chief, Mitchell has worked in fire service for four decades. He manages the hazardous materials team, the dive team, and the search and rescue team.

Team Leader Ken Logan guides Cherokee SAR. Assistant Team Leader Trent Manning and Squad Leader and Training Coordinator Patti Pratt assist Logan. The team is divided into two squads, each led by squad leaders and assistant squad leaders. In addition, the team includes designated dog handlers because Cherokee SAR is supported by both local humans and canines. Other professional skills and disciplines represented on the team include EMTs, sign trackers, firefighters, and more.

Assistant Squad Leader Anthony Roman has been on the team for three years and was recently promoted to this leadership position. Roman believes success on the team is achieved through spirit, willingness, selflessness, and the desire to help. In addition to the required physical nature of the job, Roman said that overall success demands both physical and mental abilities, which is why training exercises focus on flexing both brains and brawn.

Training occurs on a regular basis and is designed to be immersive and thorough. The curriculum is structured around National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) standards. To qualify to be on the team, each team member must be able to pass the annual Wildland Firefighter Pack Test, which requires walking 2 miles in under 30 minutes while wearing a pack that weighs at least 25 pounds.

The team trains to be ready for all possible scenarios that may be encountered on a real-life search. The team never knows when it will be called upon, so preparedness is key. Each month, team members dedicate at least one Monday evening and one full Saturday to building and maintaining skills required for a successful search. Monday evening training takes place inside a classroom with instruction typically designed to complement Saturday field trainings.

When the team trains in the field, the primary focus is building and expanding knowledge of land navigation, first aid, technical skills, and more. Real-life searches take place in the outdoors and in urban settings, both of which bring their own set of uncertainties: the possibility of extreme weather, unknown terrain, and obstacles.

On a recent team field training, squads conducted a mock search scenario at Garland Mountain. As a volunteer subject waited to be rescued, squads deployed and took the opportunity to use the skills theyve learned in land navigation and map reading to search the area and locate the subject.

This type of exercise is not just about utilizing tangible skills; it also adds to team members expertise for the intangible as well. According to Roman, one of the most important aspects of search and rescue is teamwork and not letting ones ego get in the way. Learning to work as a team provides lessons that extend beyond work in search and rescue.

I think at any level, everybodys involved in a team. And so, when you learn to put team before self and in our situation, you have to do that you have to be very cognizant of your own capabilities and limitations, as well as others, said Roman. You can take those concepts and extrapolate them into your personal and professional life.

Training prepares the team for callouts. Dispatched by Cherokee 9-1-1, team members could get called at any time, day or night. When a call comes, team members will encounter a variety of circumstances. It could be the coldest night or the warmest day, and the subject could range from a child who wandered a little too far from home while playing outside to an adult who sustained an injury while running. Training and organization ensure that the team will be prepared for whatever comes its way.

If you are interested in learning how to become involved with search and rescue, please visit CherokeeSAR.org for more information.

Our Year With Maite

By Mandy Marger

Like most good things, sponsoring an exchange student was not planned. A local Facebook group published a post looking for a family to take in an exchange student in our school district. The year had already started, and her first family had not worked out as expected. After reaching out to ask for how long, my family quickly made the decision to help.

Approval Process & Preparation
Because of the emergency situation, the approval process was pretty rapid, but it was still extremely thorough. The application was detailed and extensive but not tedious. My husband and I submitted background checks and scheduled an in-person home visit. Taryn Evans, the local coordinator for EF (Education First) Exchange was very helpful and addressed all our questions and concerns.

As we moved through the process, though we felt called to move forward, the doubt of feasibility was ever present. We believed ourselves to be very busy with our own sixth-grade twins, work, and other sport and social engagements, and we wondered how we could layer another active life into our family schedule. In talking to Taryn, we discovered that she had a full-time job and five children (including twin toddlers and a special-needs teen), and she took in two exchange students at the same time. Thus, we had no excuse to not be able to make this work.

Since we had recently redecorated our guest bedroom, our house was ready. Soon, a 16-year-old girl from the Basque region of northern Spain would move into our home. For many reasons, we were apprehensive. After her shaky start, we expected a scared, wounded young girl. But instead, brave Maite showed up, and after a brief welcome and house tour, she began folding the family underwear alongside me on the couch.

Getting to Know Our Exchange  Student
We were on our best behavior in the early days keeping things neat, being courteous to one another, eating healthy home-cooked meals, and acting as a family should. We also got to know Maites parents via Facebook and FaceTime, and of course, we quizzed her about her home and culture.

However, real life couldnt wait long, and the usual stresses of a dirty house, inevitable family conflicts, and our casual everyday way of living reemerged. What I thought would be awkward, Maite made easy. One night, after she had lived with us a short while, she was headed downstairs to her room for the evening, and we wished each other a good night. I thought of my own children, and how I still tucked them in every night. If my kids were far away, Id hope someone would give them that physical reminder of love, so I went downstairs. I told Maite I could no longer send her to bed without a hug, and so we did.

School Life
Because of her outgoing nature, Maite was quick to make friends. She was also a great student. EF brings in all students as juniors, so they may participate in upperclassmen activities, and the organization has strict academic expectations. She was also a successful member of the varsity swim and track teams.

As the year went on, Maite had more opportunities for typical American teen activities and attended parties and hung out with friends. Having been unexpectedly thrust into parenting a high school teenager, my husband and I found ourselves worrying about unfamiliar things like new friends, teen drivers, and staying out too late. Tragically, a fellow student was killed in an accident. Maite had met him on a few occasions and had become close to some of his friends. She found herself a stranger, thousands of miles from home, surrounded by kids who were affected in ways they were too young to understand or handle. We, too, were unprepared, but we connected with Maites parents from afar and rallied around her to provide support.

Part of the Family
From the beginning, Maite was great at making herself a part of our family. She became a true sibling to our twins, both supporting and ribbing them in good measure. Many other exchange students in the area had host siblings or fellow exchange students in the house that were close to the same age, whereas Maite only had our 11-year-old twins to keep her company. One evening, I apologized that we didnt have any friends in the house like other exchange students had. From her heart, Maite replied, I do have friends; theyre upstairs sleeping.

My husband and I have grown to feel the same protective instinct for Maite as we do for our biological children. Ive enjoyed many mature talks with her about her perspective on life, her culture, and her future. I kept hugging her good night every evening, and I sent her away each morning with a kiss on the cheek and a love you.

Whats Next?
As the end of the school year drew near, we avoided talking about what came next. We felt the impending loss we were going to lose a family member. We were lucky that Maite could join us on one final family trip, and we enjoyed a week at the beach as one big happy family. Two days later, we packed up a years worth of memories into bulging suitcases, said tearful goodbyes, and sent our daughter home.

Were already making plans to visit Maite and her family in Spain in a year. What began as a casual Facebook comment became such a good experience that we decided to do it again for the 2019-20 school year. This time, were bringing in a brother named David, with whom we already video chat Maite included. By design, hes also from northern Spain, so in future travels to see our EF kids, we can enjoy large family reunions near the Bay of Biscay.

For more information about hosting a foreign exchange student with EF Exchange, contact Taryn Evans at 678-448-8631 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also visit EFExchangeYear.org.

Building Hometown Pride

By Marsha Cornelius

Urban walkable communities are the future according to the New York Times. Mason Main, the modern transitional townhomes on Main Street in Woodstock, are just far enough away from the action to allow privacy, but close enough to provide a true connection to downtown. North of the roundabout, and directly across from the Woodstock library, these contemporary three-story units have a chic exterior with state-of-the-art interiors that make buyers feel right at home.

Not only is vibrant downtown Woodstock a quick walk or bike ride of less than one mile, but the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta with over 100 shops and great restaurants are right around the corner. Farmers markets, hometown parades, restaurants, clothing stores, and home goods can be found within a two-mile radius of Mason Main.  

Dont forget the free summer concert series at Northside Cherokee Amphitheatre, other live music options at additional downtown restaurants, or the community theatre at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. Plus, a free trolley runs Friday and Saturday evenings.  

The Providence Group brought an incredible in-town-living feel that used to only be found inside the perimeter. Now, luxurious design with upscale, premier-quality craftsmanship and the flexibility to modify the interior to suit individual lifestyles is available in Cherokee County. Mason Main is truly urban living without the chaos of downtown Atlanta.

-Spacious three-story design with outdoor deck on main level
-Gourmet kitchen with island overlooking dining and family room
-Lovely owners suites and up to four secondary bedrooms  
-Guest retreat or media space on terrace level
-Elevator option available
-Two-car garage
-HOA-maintained exteriors  

Something for Everyone

Buyers looking to downsize to a more rural environment thats close to amenities need look no further than Idylwilde, Where Stories Live. This gated community offers modern farmhouse designs, nestled in the sought-after Hickory Flat area of Cherokee County on Highway 140.  

The story begins with a choice between ranch-style or two-story designs with the master on the main, all HOA-maintained, so homeowners dont have to lift a finger. However, active residents can play pickleball or stroll along miles of trails to enjoy crisscrossed streams and ponds. With sidewalks on both sides of the street, homeowners will be sure to get their steps in every day with the option to linger at one of the communitys green spaces, too.

Add to the fun with game nights at the clubhouse or spend a relaxing afternoon at the pool. Residents can sit on their front porch and greet friends or enjoy the privacy of a secluded patio on the side of the house.

Dont worry about being too far into the country. Grocery stores are minutes away. The new Northside Cherokee Hospital is just up the road. Theres plenty of shopping at either the Canton Marketplace Shopping Center or Riverstone Plaza, plus restaurants, movie theaters, and award-winning restaurants in downtown Canton.  
Its attention to details that puts Mason Main and Idylwilde in the highest class of quality housing. The company always suggests that buyers compare apples to apples. The Providence Group exceeds the norm of standard features and construction quality. And to top it off, buyers will appreciate an incredible in-house warranty, great customer service, and property taxes that are significantly lower than surrounding counties.

Make Space for Life

The Providence Group, LLC, developers of both Mason Main and Idylwilde, originally led by the?father-son team of Pete and Warren Jolly (both Atlanta natives) have earned a reputation for excellence with the success of Jolly Development, one of the citys premier land development firms. The home-building arm of the company, The Providence Group, was created and is considered one of the leading lifestyle builders in Atlanta.   

The Providence Group has a passion for building well-crafted new homes with a personal touch inspired by and uniquely designed for each homebuyers life. Timeless, yet ever evolving, and set in Atlantas most sought-after communities, The Providence Group provides long-lasting, low-maintenance homes. Each home is intelligently crafted and ready to be personalized, so homebuyers can move in with ease and feel right at home.  

Building communities where homebuyers can make space for life and focus on the things that matter most is The Providence Groups goal, believing that is what coming home is all about.


The Providence Group builds in over 15 new home communities throughout Atlanta and is a subsidiary of Green Brick Partners. Learn more at TheProvidenceGroup.com, or call
678-475-9400.

The Providence Group does an amazing job of strategically looking at how buyers live. We know that there are families who love Cherokee County and want to stay here, but their current homes no longer fit how they live. It was great maybe when the kids were small, and they needed a large home on a basement with huge yard. Now, they want to spend more time doing the things they love versus maintaining a huge yard. Or perhaps, it is their first home that is a little bit more on trend with the newest architecture, building trends, and technology. I love talking to people who are coming in and saying, Now THIS is exactly what we have been looking for. The buzz words right now are urban suburban and tiny and shiny, says Amy Turcotte, the on-site salesperson at Idylwilde.


The Providence Group builds in over 15 new home communities throughout Atlanta and is a subsidiary of Green Brick Partners. Learn more at TheProvidenceGroup.com, or call 678-475-9400.

Mason Main
7784 Main Street
Woodstock, GA

Idylwilde
5300 Hickory Flat Highway
Canton, GA

Let The Sunshine In

By Marsha Cornelius

"Let the sunshine in. Thats the mantra of todays homeowner. Contemporary houses now have expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, two-story window walls, and skylights.

But what is all that sunlight doing to your interior? Its disheartening to spend thousands of dollars on furniture only to have the colors fade in just a few years. And what about those hardwood floors and fabulous area rugs that tie the room together? They all can lose their luster and color to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Those UV rays are the culprit that damage furniture, floors, paint, and wallpaper. The only solution used to be blinds, sheers, or sheers and heavy drapes, and then valances and tiebacks. The list goes on, and the cost mounts up. Even those expensive drapes can be damaged by the sun. And lets not delve into the last time you dusted those blinds or had your drapes professionally steam cleaned.
Its ironic that the window treatments utilized to block those harmful UV rays are also blocking your view of the backyard, the pool, or the lush shrubs and garden area you so painstakingly planned.

Want an alternative that blocks out 99% of the UV rays but not your view? Consider having your windows professionally tinted. No, not that film that wrinkles and bubbles and peels off, but state-of-the-art nanoceramic window films offered by All Pro Window Tinting.

Chris DeLuca is the owner of All Pro Window Tinting, a business he started in 2007. DeLuca received extensive training in the tinting process and made sure his staff was professionally trained as well. He has been working with window tinting since he was 11 years old, helping with the family business after school and during summers, so he knows what hes doing.

I have lots of years of installations, DeLuca says. We work for all different client types, including some very high-end customers, who are meticulous about what they want. This has made me and my company the quality-over-quantity company for the last 10-plus years.
Its not just the UV.

Temperatures in the Atlanta area can reach the 90s during the summer months. By tinting your windows, you can reduce your heating and cooling costs appreciably. Tinting can make your home 20 degrees cooler depending on the glass type and films used.

How often do you close your blinds while watching your favorite TV show? By tinting, you will reduce the glare on your televisions and computer screens.

Tinting will also enhance the value of your home and increase your privacy and safety.

What about my business?

Why offer window seating if customers suffer from the heat and glare of that harsh morning and afternoon sun? Are you constantly adjusting shades or blinds to keep your customers comfortable? Or paying to run ceiling fans that must be dusted frequently? Consider tinting those windows. Not only will your customers appreciate your thoughtfulness, but youll save money.

Look at all the benefits of tinting:

• Deters vandalism
• Provides privacy from onlookers
• Keeps carpet from fading
• Prevents computer damage
• Protects furnishings/artwork/hardwood floors
• Saves on heating and cooling costs

Can All Pro tint my car windows?

Definitely. All Pro Window Tinting is a full-service company. Professional installers will be happy to service your car at their shop in Canton. They offer expert installation and provide several different shades of tint. This tinting will reduce glare for a safer ride, block out heat to increase comfort, prevent fading of your interior by blocking 99% of UV rays, deter vandalism, and provide privacy from onlookers. The tinted surface can even keep glass together when damaged.

Not only will All Pro tint your windows, the company can actually protect your cars paint finish with smart-surface science that protects your entire car. All Pros Crystal Serum Ultra gives matchless levels of gloss and surface slickness, along with swirl and chemical resistance.

Quality is our reputation.

Chris DeLuca may be the owner, but hes not sitting in an office. Hell personally show up at your residence or business to discuss your tinting needs.

We have a solution for every problem, DeLuca says. Thats because we do things differently.

Dont let his shorts and colorful polo shirt fool you. His casual demeanor is meant to put you at ease, but it certainly doesnt mean hes not a professional.

I may have a sales call at nine oclock, but my next stop might be at a site were installing. I could be working right alongside my crew to insure we do the best job in a timely manner.

DeLuca will spend plenty of time listening to your needs and wants before he makes recommendations to suit your situation.

For one thing, he says, darker is not better. Our products are designed to give you back the rooms you love without adding unnecessary darkness.

Once you have determined what you need, DeLuca will hand you an estimate right then and there. Its all a part of his hands-on approach to customer service, whether its your home, your business, or your vehicles.

All Pro Window Tinting
AllProWindowTinting.com
770-479-8468

3025 Holly Springs Parkway
Canton, GA 30115

1100 Peachtree Street NE, #200
Atlanta, GA 30309

205 Hembree Circle Drive
Roswell, GA 30076

By Marsha Cornelius

Walking inside Southern ENT Specialists, the first thing patients experience is being greeted by smiling, friendly staff members who make them feel welcome. Southern ENT Specialists is a smaller, family-owned-and-operated practice, and patients can feel the difference almost immediately. After over 10 years serving North Georgia in a large group practice, Dr. James Courtney French founded Southern ENT Specialists to fulfill his dream of combining the most advanced care in ear, nose, and throat medicine with a healthy dose of southern hospitality. His staff of advanced practice providers, nurses, technicians, and support personnel is carefully selected for their combination of superior skill, warmth, and empathy.  

You wont find a medical office in the city with a better staff, says Dr. French. A physician can only be as good as those who support him, and I am really fortunate to work with such an excellent team.  

Getting to Know Dr. French

Born and raised in Atlanta, Dr. French is a board-certified otolaryngologist, head, and neck surgeon. He has extensive experience providing both surgical and minimally invasive treatment options for the ears, nose, and throat to ensure maximum benefit with minimal risk and down time. Dr. French grew up in East Point and graduated from Georgia State University before completing medical school and residency at Loma Linda University in California. He returned to his roots in Georgia to start a practice near his family and friends. Dr. French believes politeness, kindness, and welcoming attitudes are too often missing from businesses today, and unfortunately, this is especially seen in healthcare. We promise to do our best to always treat our patients as we would want to be treated.

Dr. French has been married to his beautiful wife for four years. They have a lovely 2-year-old daughter, who makes each day a new adventure. Their family enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and biking.   

Recently, Dr. French was awarded the Castle Connolly Award for Top Doctor in Otolaryngology for 2019. Castle Connolly is Americas trusted source for identifying top doctors in Otolaryngology since 1991. Physicians are nominated by their peers throughout the United States. Castle Connolly is a physician-led team of researchers who follow a rigorous screening process to select top doctors from thousands of physicians on both national and regional levels. Dr. Frenchs exceptional patient care, gifted approach to medicine, and utilization of cutting-edge technology earned him this prestigious award.

Dr. French especially enjoys treating patients who suffer from chronic sinus and allergy problems, nasal congestion, and snoring/sleep apnea. He focuses on minimally invasive treatments whenever possible. Dr. French has served as an advanced trainer in office-based balloon sinuplasty and sinus and snoring surgery. The balloon technique is a less invasive treatment compared to traditional sinus surgery and is an option for patients looking for an alternative to traditional surgery. When a patient is diagnosed with sinusitis and is not responding to medication, he/she may be a candidate for this advanced procedure. As a leader in his field, Dr. French has taught physicians from across the U.S. how to perform these techniques.   

Sinus disease and congestion often go hand in hand with allergy problems. Those who have lived in the South during the spring know about allergies. For the occasional sufferer, medications can relieve symptoms. For severe allergies, medications provide some relief, but they dont cure the problem. Traditional allergy therapy can involve committing to a long, inconvenient, and uncomfortable course of painful allergy shots. Southern ENT Specialists can provide an easier, painless alternative. Testing can be done without painful needles, and treatment can be done from home with allergy drops. This innovative treatment saves you time and money by eliminating the need for weekly office visits.

In addition to sinus disease and allergies, patients often present with problems related to snoring or sleep apnea, which is usually caused by an obstruction/restriction of air flow through the passages at the back of the mouth and nose. This restriction can cause the airways to collapse, and reduced air flow vibrates tissue against the back of the throat during sleep. Snoring and sleep apnea are not only an annoyance, they can cause marital issues, sleep deprivation, and possibly heart disease and hypertension. Dr. French offers multiple treatment options that can often provide patients with alternatives to CPAP machines and improve comfort.   

Frequently Treated Conditions:

Snoring
Ear fullness
Sinus issues
Nasal drip
Congestion
Allergies
Headaches  
Hearing loss

Schedule an Appointment

Southern ENT Specialists is in a new facility, located in the 460 building of the Northside Cherokee Hospital complex. Dont suffer another day with ear, nose, or throat concerns; give Southern ENT Specialists a call.   


Southern ENT Specialists
460 Northside Cherokee Boulevard, #410
Canton, GA 30115
678-786-7430
SouthernENTSpecialists.com

Sculpting Gold and Other Precious Minerals

By Hannah Olson

From wedding coordinator to police officer, Megan Austin held a surprising variety of jobs before discovering her passion for jewelry design. As a student, she majored in computer graphics. Now, she spends 11 months out of the year crafting unique jewelry pieces and traveling to art shows across the United States.

During her interview, Austin was wearing a pendant she made with her childrens birthstones set in silver. Each of the oblong, cabochon stones in the pendant were presented close to their natural shape. Unlike most commercial jewelers who order gems cut to standard fittings, Austin crafts her jewelry around the unique shape of each stone to preserve their beauty and value.

Of the many varieties of gemstones Austin cuts and polishes, her expertise is ammolite, larimar, turquoise and, her all-time favorite, opal. Austins love for polishing stones began in childhood, but she did not seriously consider a career as a juried artist until she set up her first display in 2010 at the Woodstock Market. Since then, she has filled her calendar with a range of juried and non-juried shows as far south as Florida and as far north as New York.

Austins jewelry-making process is surprisingly eco-friendly. She personally retrieves her gemstones from mines in Georgia and North Carolina. She is also a certified precious metal clay (PMC) instructor. Austin uses silver and gold PMC in her jewelry settings. She explains how scientists at Mitsubishi developed a way to combine noble metals from recycled computer components with organic clay to create the malleable product known as PMC. The easily sculpted PMC makes it possible for artists to craft detailed silver and gold settings for pendants, necklaces, bracelets, and other fine pieces. Once sculpted, the PMC is dried then fired in a kiln, which burns out the clay and leaves a pure gold or silver product.

Austin enjoys her private collection of necklaces, including her childrens birthstones, and often wears her treasured pieces while on show tour. Her hand-sculpted mermaid pendant is especially popular among patrons who frequently request copies of the mythical sea creature. Austin was overjoyed to demonstrate how she forms a mermaid from PMC. The commissioned piece she was working on featured a dolphin and mermaid embracing the top and bottom of a large pearl.

The application process for a juried art show is intense, and the submissions are an ongoing process for Austin. For every show I get into, she said, Ive applied to three that I didnt get into.

Austin is at shows three to four weekends out of every month throughout the year. While her production schedule can be demanding, Austin enjoys the broad base of patronage and peer networking opportunities that nationwide art shows offer.

For more information about Austins work, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit MDJewelryDesign.com.

By Farris Yawn

Many have the utmost respect and admiration for anyone who answers the call to serve and puts on a uniform to defend our country. There are those, however, who go above and beyond by answering that call over and over. First Sgt. Michael J. Conley is such a person.

In a career spanning 42 years, Sgt. Conley has served as a soldier, Green Beret, Ranger, and Ranger Instructor. He saw combat in Vietnam and Iraq and served in several National Guard units as well as an assignment in the Republic of Georgia. In between assignments and deployments, he also worked as a science teacher.

In his book, Not Alone, Sgt. Conley shares his lifetime of military experiences as well as the stories of some of the soldiers he met along the way. He shares his encounters with a few special dogs as well.

As the title implies, he did not go through this journey alone. In addition to his men and his family (particularly his wife), he gives the credit for his remarkable career to God. Even during the worst of circumstances, he never felt alone. He credits God for his safe return home.

Sgt. Conley has just released a revised edition of his memoir for a very unfortunate reason. As anyone who deals with bureaucracy can tell you, government records are not always accurate. Certain individuals, for their own reasons, seized upon such inaccuracies in Sgt. Conleys records to accuse him of being dishonest about his service. These attacks hurt him deeply, and he was determined to set the record straight. After considerable effort and expense, he was able to get his DD-214 corrected to accurately reflect his service. Those updated documents are now included in his book.

Spend some time getting to know Sgt. Conley in his own words. You will be glad you did.

By Gabiel Morley

Grizzly bears are one of Americas most mysterious creatures. Outsized and mythic, they hold a vaunted place in the predator hierarchy. In Down From the Mountain: The Life and Death of a Grizzly Bear, author Bryce Andrews tries to describe the dangerous and mundane life of one mother bear and her cubs, as they weave through Montanas Mission Valley.

Grizzly bears have been in a struggle for survival amid the loss of their natural habitat, but the bears are attempting a comeback out west in Montanas Mission Valley, where a swath of protected wilderness allows the bears to live unencumbered for the most part.

Sometime in early 2002, a female grizzly wandered into the valley ominously close to a dairy farm, lured by the scent of ripening apples. Bears have a heightened sense of smell and will often walk for miles to find a good meal.

The bears foray into town set off a years-long chain of events, and it provides the story arc for Andrews book. Millie, as the bear became known, was soon to have cubs of her own. Their tragic story unfolds over a single season in the Mission Valley, framed against the backdrop of an encroaching and developing world.

Andrews, who works for a conservation group, is immersed in the story himself. His personal account of navigating the divide between protecting society from bears and protecting bears from society mimics Millies own confusing journey. For example, food is plentiful and easy to get in town, but it is also fraught with peril.

Down From the Mountain will take readers on a journey through Big Sky country, but also offers an intimate glimpse into the vast ecosystem we share with all creatures.

Pottery With Personality

By Tina Morris

A native of central Florida, Greg Schulz grew up surrounded by orange groves and phosphate mines, spending time playing in the clay. Today he lives in the woods on the Etowah River, where he allows nature to inspire many of his creations. After retiring from his advertising career in 2015, Schulz has risen quickly in the pottery scene. He began working with clay by watching videos online and learning as he went. It wasnt easy in the beginning; one false move can cause the clay to flop off the wheel.

The creation of each piece is time consuming. For the sgraffito, when the clay is leather hard, he dips it in a black glaze before carving through it. Each mug takes up to three hours to create. It takes Schulz between three and four weeks to complete a whole kiln load.
Working with clay takes muscle memory, hand-eye coordination, and focused concentration. Schulzs perseverance and practice have paid off, and his creations speak for themselves.

To stumble upon a piece of Schulz pottery is to find something special. He has a passion for creating unique pieces that speak to the individuals they are meant for a sort of metaphysical connection between creator, creation, and intended owner.
Schulzs work is hard to describe in the best way possible. It is a bit like wandering around in an old-world Irish fairy tale. Sometimes you will meet a creepy-cute clown, sometimes you will find a birdhouse boy, and sometimes you will find a coffee mug with a realistic leaf outline. The point is, theres something for everyone, and thats just the way Schulz wants it. He creates what comes to mind, and though even he doesnt love every piece, he knows that someone will.

Though he is still fairly new to the world of pottery, Schulz has always been around art. His mother is an artist, and she brought him around artist booths when he was a child. He attended the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale for advertising design, where he later taught classes. His wife, Susan, is a writer, and his children are also involved in various artistic pursuits.

Over the past four years, Schulzs pottery has developed a growing number of followers who have begun collecting his pieces. He was also commissioned to create a trio of beautiful sgraffito bird platters to bring joy to the walls of Northside Hospital. Schulz Pottery can be found on Instagram @schulzpottery. While pieces can be viewed and purchased via the internet, Schulz prefers to watch people find the piece they connect with in person. He is also passionate about supporting local artists, farmers, and other local businesspeople.

Having been surrounded by art his whole life, Schulz has gained a bit of wisdom when it comes to creation. His first bit of advice practice, practice, practice. Artists often give up too soon and miss out on success. His second piece of advice only listen to critiques from other professionals in your field. He states, People often feel like they can criticize artists freely, even if they dont have knowledge or experience.

By Jessica Asbell

Am I truly Anastasia Romanov? A beloved daughter. A revered icon. A Russian grand duchess. Or am I an imposter? A fraud. A liar. The thief of another womans legacy. That is for you to decide, of course. Countless others have rendered their verdict. Now it is your turn. But if you want the truth, you must pay attention. And so begins Ariel Lawhons book, I Was Anastasia.

For years, many have been fascinated with the story of the Romanovs, the Russian imperial family who were killed during the revolution. The executioners said that the whole family, including Anastasia Romanov, was killed. But still, two years later, a young woman bearing a striking resemblance to Anastasia Romanov is pulled from a river in Berlin. When she is taken to the hospital, the doctors find horrific scars. When she speaks, she claims to be Anastasia Romanov.

I Was Anastasia follows the events of Anastasia Romanovs and Anna Andersons lives (or life, depending on who you ask). The story begins in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 1970, where Anna is an old woman awaiting a verdict from the German Court in Hamburg. From there, it moves to the time of the revolution in Anastasias life. As Anastasias life marches towards imprisonment and that fateful day in the basement in Siberia, Annas difficult life is laid out in a backwards fashion. In the end, there are two women, Anna and Anastasia, and it is up to the reader to decide if they are one and the same.

I Was Anastasia is a page-turner that will keep you guessing until the end. Ariel Lawhon has taken a piece of history and turned it into a puzzle that will leave readers feeling satisfied.

By Ryland Johnson

After The Eyre Affair, Jasper Ffordes first book, which inaugurated the excellent Thursday Next series, he went on a creative hiatus. Early Riser marks Ffordes triumphant return to full-force, adult science fiction, and it is a stand-alone novel, not a work in a series, which is an exciting development. Like a crafted snow globe, Fforde gives us an entrancing, self-contained world. In the time of sprawling epics like Game of Thrones, its good to read sci-fi that feels complete in itself and tied off at the right time.

Early Riser takes place on an alternative Earth: modern, but with Ice-Age winters. In order to survive the annual deep-freeze, the human population hibernates en masse through winter, like bears in giant, nuclear-powered dormitories. The protagonist, Charlie Worthing, is a new recruit to the Winter Consul Service, the intrepid but short-lived few who are tasked with ensuring humanitys survival through hibernation. Winter is dangerous: There are monsters, villains, and even cannibal undead among the snowy, desolate wastes. Some go to sleep and never wake up. Dreams are dangerous. Someone must stay awake to protect human life.

Metaphors of sleeping, waking, and dreaming abound in Early Riser, which helps the novel feel both perennial and timely. Ffordes signature skill at world building is as effective as ever. Early Riser feels thoughtful and grown-up, more erudite, less slave to fashion. Its economy of concept insulates it from feeling played-out or dilute, and Ffordes fresh, hyperrealist wit keeps the story warm, engaging, and funny, even as he gives us a dead-serious parable of climate change and permanent wealth inequality

Early Riser is vastly enjoyable. Adult readers and fans of science fiction will devour it.

Show Off Your Smile

By Maria Klouda

Opening in 2007, Cherokee Childrens Dentistry has become an established member of the greater Canton community. The practice provides exceptional pediatric oral health care, with an emphasis on relationship-based dentistry. The mission is to partner with the family and the pediatric patient at an early age to allow for optimal oral health through education and prevention.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first pediatric dental visit by age 1. Establishing a dental home at a young age provides an opportunity for positive dental experiences and the prevention of tooth decay. In recent years, the incidence of childhood cavities has increased significantly, with approximately 20% of 2-year-old children and 45% of 4-year-old children developing cavities.

Dr. Miles Mazzawi, Dr. Anthea Drew Mazzawi, and Dr. Nirali Procter, the dentists at Cherokee Childrens Dentistry, are dedicated to helping children develop good oral health habits at an early age and to making the experience fun for the whole family.

Board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Miles and Dr. Drew have a passion for dentistry and for children. Their practice takes a mom-and-pop, hometown approach to pediatric dental care, developing one-on-one relationships with patients and their families.

We value our patients and enjoy spending time getting to know them, says Dr. Drew. Its important to develop a rapport with our patients, so that they trust and feel comfortable with us. Having practiced for over 10 years in the same community, it has been a blessing to watch our young patients grow into adulthood.

To become pediatric dentists, Dr. Miles and Dr. Drew completed a two-year residency program in pediatric dentistry after four years of dental school. During their residency, the doctors underwent additional training in child psychology, behavior management, growth and development, dental trauma, restorative dentistry, orthodontics, and preventive care. In addition, they were trained to perform conscious sedation and work with special needs patients.

Dr. Miles, Dr. Drew, and Dr. Procter work closely with parents to create a dental home based on a fun, caring environment that teaches children the importance of taking care of their teeth.

We encourage parents to keep things simple and take a positive approach when preparing kids for their first dental visit, says Dr. Miles. We relate to children on their level, using kid-friendly words they can understand, making them feel more comfortable in the clinical setting.

For example, cavities are called sugar bugs, fillings are called stars, and numbing methods are called sleepy juice and happy air.
If you make it fun for kids, they will get excited about taking care of their teeth. By developing good habits at an early age, they are likely to carry that into adulthood, says Dr. Miles.

The office of Cherokee Childrens Dentistry was designed with a childs experience in mind. From the kid-sized door to the colorful wilderness murals throughout, the office captivates young children. The reception area includes a large play area with toys, childrens books, video games, and cartoons.

Ive always loved the outdoors, so I thought it would be fun, here in the north Georgia mountains, to bring the outdoors in, says Dr. Miles.

The wilderness theme carries over into the different areas of the office, which also features overhead TVs and headphones for patients to enjoy.

As soon as children walk through the door, they see other kids having fun and playing, and this helps them feel at ease, says Dr. Drew. We try to make the whole process enjoyable from a childs perspective.

The personal, hometown care at Cherokee Childrens Dentistry also extends into the community. The doctors and their dental team support a variety of local charities dedicated to children. During Childrens Dental Health Month in February, Dr. Miles visits local schools, talking to approximately 3,000 students about proper oral hygiene and healthy eating habits.

With many of our patients, the relationship begins in the schools, says Dr. Miles. Introducing children to dentistry in a fun, familiar setting often makes the kids excited about their dental visit. Parents have told us that their children came home from school talking about sugar bugs and wanting to go see the dentist.

Patients and residents of Cherokee County have recognized Dr. Miles, Dr. Drew, and Dr. Procters community outreach and personal, hometown care by voting Cherokee Childrens Dentistry Best Of Community Favorite nine times.

Word-of-mouth referrals are the best advertisement for any business, says Dr. Drew. Being voted Best Of in the pediatric dental category is a testament that parents feel confident in bringing their children to us, and that were providing the quality care they want for their family.

Cherokee Children's Dentistry

205 Waleska Road, Suite 2-B, Canton
770-479-1717
CherokeeChildrensDentistry.com

Now Open in Roswell

By Maria Klouda

Roswells development is primed for continued expansion, and Live Oak Dermatology is planning to be part of that growth. Location was key when Dr. Brent Goedjen, a board-certified dermatologist, began to search for a place for his new private practice. He wanted a long-term location where he could serve the community for years to come.

Live Oak Dermatology is in the heart of historic downtown Roswell next to the Roswell Public Library. The practice opened in February and serves patients in the Roswell community and beyond.

The office is convenient to 400, and off-street parking is available onsite. Patients can stroll the brick-lined streets of Roswell, grab a bite to eat, visit the library or nearby brewery, all within 100 yards of Live Oak Dermatology.

The new office is the culmination of Dr. Goedjens dream to open a private practice and be an integral part of the local community. For Live Oak Dermatology, that means not only the prime location in Roswell but also building a business that treats patients like family a small-town feel with world-class service and personal relationships.

Dr. Goedjen strives to stay true to the Mayo Clinic motto that the needs of patients come first. One of his role models is Dr. Stewart Skip Wiegand, who ran a solo practice in Atlanta for decades, establishing many lasting professional relationships with patients and their families. Dr. Goedjen believes that the model of personal patient care and long-term commitment can still be successful at a time when medicine, particularly dermatology, is under the influence of increasing corporatization.

Armed with a plan and years of experience in different practice settings, Dr. Goedjen fulfilled his dream of building a practice from the ground up. He plans to grow the practice organically by offering excellent patient experiences that will lead to referrals from friends and family. Providing generational continuity is a goal Dr. Goedjen looks forward to achieving. There is a certain pride that comes with owning a private practice, but the real mission is to serve the community.

Raised in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Dr. Goedjen completed his undergraduate training as a member of the Honors College at Auburn University, where he majored in chemical engineering with a pre-medicine specialization. A desire for more personal interaction to impact peoples lives drove him to medicine.

Dr. Goedjen matriculated to medical school at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, where he was elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society. He also won the John Watson Donald surgical award for his performance during third-year surgical rotation.

While Dr. Goedjen was interested in many specialties during his training, he found the variety and range in dermatology the most appealing. He completed his internship and residency at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, where he served as co-chief resident during his final year in the program. Obtaining his board certification upon graduation, Dr. Goedjen entered private practice among respected colleagues in Atlanta before opening Live Oak Dermatology. His extensive training honed his ability to recognize certain nuances and accurately diagnose and treat issues.

Live Oak Dermatology offers a wide range of services including medical, general dermatologic surgical, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatology. The practice strives to leverage technology to make the patient experience convenient and intuitive by offering online appointment scheduling through their website and appointment rescheduling through confirmation email. Patients may fill out pre-appointment paperwork through a secure patient portal, where they also have access to records and recommendations.

Existing patients have access to virtual consultations through Teledermatology, which allows for the diagnosis and treatment of skin concerns from the privacy and comfort of home. Dr. Goedjen also offers Saturday office hours.

As part of societys increased dependency on technology, social media has played an integral role in raising awareness of medical issues. For example, the online promotion of Skin Care Awareness Month in May reminded individuals to schedule potentially life-saving checkups. In the case of melanoma, time is of the essence, as delayed diagnosis can greatly affect prognosis. Patients should always be aware of any new, changing, or suspicious skin lesions, which will allow potential issues to be identified and addressed earlier. Dr. Goedjen sees this as a positive trend.

The Live Oak Dermatology staff plays a vital role in Dr. Goedjens mission to provide outstanding personal and professional dermatological care. His caring and compassionate team is largely responsible for the high level of success that has been achieved in the short time since the doors have been opened. Given their dedication, it is no surprise that Live Oak Dermatology receives wonderful reviews from patients across multiple platforms including Google, Yelp, Zocdoc, Healthgrades, Facebook, and more.

Our goal will always remain to deliver the highest quality care possible and excellent experiences for our patients.
Dr. Brent Goedjen

Live Oak Dermatology

135 Norcross Street
Roswell, GA 30075
678-870-2020

LiveOakDermATL.com
Facebook - Live Oak Dermatology

By Marsha Cornelius

So, what exactly does friendship have to do with your smile? Plenty if youve ever dealt with a surly staff or an indifferent worker who has treated you impersonally. If you have ever walked into a doctors office, a restaurant, or any business establishment where no one looked up to acknowledge and greet you, you understand how frustrating it can be. Everyone wants to be around people they like and people they are comfortable enough to be friends with.

At Kragor Orthodontics, both Drs.Ambre and Andy Kragor are patient driven and have been since they established their practice in 2016. Just like at a 5-star hotel, these two professionals want everyone to feel welcome during every single visit. And this courtesy doesnt stop with the doctors. The whole team knows their patients by name and does their best to make everyone feel like friends and family. Just read their online reviews; you will see the word family mentioned over and over again.

Their courtesy goes way beyond a smile at the front desk. The team works hard to accommodate patients needs by offering no-interest financing, two-month intervals between appointments instead of one at certain phases of treatment, and before or after school/work appointments. They understand that your time is valuable, and effective appointment scheduling is in place, so patients arent left waiting. How often have you been given an arrival time, and been reminded of that time with a phone call, only to sit in a waiting room for an extra 30 minutes to an hour to be seen? Kragor Orthodontics wants to be known as a place where you dont wait before being brought back for your appointment.

Dr. Ambre graduated top of her class from the University of Washington for both undergrad and dental school. Dr. Andy also graduated with honors in the top of his class from the University of Georgia, and the University of Michigan for dental school. After both doctors completed their orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedics residency at the University of Michigan, Andy wanted to return to his native Georgia home.

Beyond the Office Visit
Not only are the Kragors dedicated to putting a smile on your face, theyre also active in the community, supporting local charities and sports teams.

Ambre is on the craniofacial team at Childrens Healthcare of Atlanta, treating children with craniofacial anomalies such as cleft lip or cleft palate. Some patients travel from as far away as Alabama and Tennessee.

Helping babies through nasoalveolar molding (NAM) is very rewarding, Ambre says. NAM is a presurgical treatment used to improve the final results of surgical repair for cleft lip and palate.

We not only straighten teeth, but also facilitate the growth of noses and jaws into the correct position, Andy says, to create a harmonious facial pattern.

State-of-the-Art Equipment
At Kragor Orthodontics, the doctors use digital imaging radiographs and scanners instead of the old-fashioned gooey dental impressions. They also offer clear aligners, such as Invisalign, which are the aesthetic alternative to metal braces for adults and teens.

If metal braces are needed, they can use self-ligating brackets. No elastic ties are needed because the special clips (bracket doors) are used to help the archwire move your teeth into place. These brackets reduce friction, allow teeth to move faster, and decrease the overall time needed to create that perfect smile; however, patients can still put different colored ties on them if they want to. Plus, the appointments are spaced further apart than with conventional treatment.

Our goal is to get patients back to smiling as soon as possible, says Andy. When youre proud of your smile, Ambre adds, you tend to be proud of yourself. This is life altering.

About the only thing thats old fashioned about Kragor Orthodontics is their attention to detail. Both doctors review each patient together, so regardless of who is in the office, patients can be assured he/she is up to speed with their procedure armed with two expert opinions. This is a benefit of a husband-and-wife team.

Am I Too Old for Braces?
Absolutely not, Andy says. Currently, our oldest patient is 88 years old.

Ambre points out, Its never too early or too late to have the proper form and function to your bite as well as your smile. The age range of patients is 7 years and older.

About 60% of our patients are children, Andy says. The other 40% are adults.

We have entire families receiving treatment, Ambre says, Mom, Dad, and the children.

They are especially aware of some patients reluctance to wear braces, including teens.

We understand how we are molding and shaping a childs facial features, Ambre says. During the time they are patients, we watch them grow into young men and women who are more confident and self-assured because of how we have improved their appearance and confidence. The best part about our jobs is watching our patients grow physically and emotionally.

If you are interested in changing your smile, or your childs smile, look no further. With 100% complimentary consultations, Kragor Orthodontics can help you, while creating a friendship that will last a lifetime.

Kragor Orthodontics

1816 Eagle Drive
#100-B, Woodstock
KragorOrtho.com
770-485-8827

By Julie Senger

Since the temps will only continue to rise as the official first day of summer approaches, the last thing most of us want to do is increase the heat (or the electricity bill) inside our homes by preparing a meal on the stove top or in the oven, but we still gotta eat! While using an outdoor grill can be a great option, sometimes it might be raining, or you might want to stay in the air conditioning to avoid flies and mosquitoes. Here are some recipes you can prepare inside to help you stay cool.

Some Assembly Required
Salads and sandwiches are great options. Simply choose ingredients that dont require cooking.

Spring Goddess Sandwich
Makes 2 large vegetarian-friendly sandwiches.
Source: FeastingAtHome.com)

Sandwich Ingredients
1 batch chickpea salad
4 slices of your favorite
bread (or 2 sliced bagels
or sandwich wraps)
1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
2 large lettuce leaves
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
with a peeler
4 radishes, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
Alfalfa sprouts to taste

Chickpea Salad Ingredients
1 can chickpeas,
rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
1/4 cup chopped dill
2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Place all ingredients in a medium bowl; mix and mash with a fork until well combined.
Spread whole-grain mustard on your choice of bread.
Add lettuce and a generous amount of chickpea salad.
Layer sliced cucumber, carrots, radishes, and avocado.
Top with alfalfa and a second slice of bread/bagel (or roll closed if using wraps).
Cut in half and enjoy.

Avocado Tuna Salad
(Serves 2-3, keto-friendly. Source: NatashasKitchen.com)

Ingredients
15-oz tuna in oil, drained and flaked (3 small cans)
1 cucumber, sliced
2 large or 3 medium avocados, peeled, pitted,
and diced (1-inch cubes)
1 small/medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cilantro (half of a small bunch)
2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
In a large salad bowl, combine cucumber, avocado, onion, tuna, and cilantro.
Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper and toss to combine.
Serve and enjoy.

Done in a Flash
Use your trusty ol microwave on busy days when you need a quick-fix hot meal. This recipe is also great for when children need to make their own meal or for college students who dont have access to a stove/oven in their dorm room.

Microwave Mug Pizza
(Serves 1. Source: BiggerBolderBaking.com)

Ingredients
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/8 tablespoon baking powder
1/16 tablespoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon marinara sauce
1 heaping tablespoon shredded mozzarella cheese
5 mini pepperonis
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions
Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a microwaveable mug.
Add the milk and oil to the flour mixture and stir until well combined.
Spoon the marinara sauce on top of the batter and lightly spread it over the surface.
Sprinkle the cheese over the marinara and top with pepperonis and Italian seasoning.
Microwave for 1 minute and 10-20 seconds, or until the pizza rises and the toppings are bubbling (listed time is based on 1200-watt microwave).

Simmer Down Now
If you own a Crock-Pot, you can prepare meals that take their sweet time, safely simmering all day while you complete other tasks. Or, if you have an Instant Pot, you can make meals that ordinarily need to simmer in a Crock-Pot all day in a fraction of the time. Both methods will save you from heating up the kitchen.

Crock-Pot Pepper Jack Chicken
(Serves 3-4. Source: RecipesThatCrock.com)

Ingredients
3-4 pounds boneless/skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons cumin
salt and pepper to taste
10-oz frozen whole green beans
1 bell pepper, seeded and sliced
8-oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup butter
10 slices pepper jack cheese

Instructions
Place chicken in the bottom of a 6-quart Crock-Pot and season with onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Layer frozen green beans, followed by mushrooms then peppers.
Add more salt and pepper to taste, top with butter, and cook on low for 4-6 hours (or until chicken shreds when stirred).
Stir the chicken until shredded, top with pepper jack cheese, and cook on high until the cheese melts.

Instant Pot Summer Vegetable Soup
(Serves 8. Source: RaisingGenerationNourished.com)

Ingredients
2 quarts bone or vegetable broth
1 medium onion, peeled and quartered
6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
1 small/medium eggplant, coarsely sliced into rounds
2 large tomatoes, seeded and coarsely sliced
1 medium zucchini, coarsely sliced into rounds
1 medium summer squash, coarsely sliced into rounds
1 cup corn
1 cup green beans
1 small orange bell pepper, seeded and coarsely sliced
1 small red bell pepper, seeded and coarsely sliced
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 2-3 teaspoons dried basil)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Put everything into the Instant Pot, put on the lid, and close the valve.
Push the Soup setting and adjust the time to 10 minutes. It will turn on automatically and take about 15 minutes to come to pressure before the 10 minutes start to count down.
When the Instant Pot is done cooking, release the valve to let the pressure out, remove the lid, and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
Add salt and pepper to taste.

By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

If you have been to one of our county parks over the last couple of years, you may have seen a new addition: the Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO) Inmate Workforce. Dressed in a traditional black and white uniform, they are distinctly visible against the landscape while mowing the grass and picking up trash.

A few years ago, the Cherokee Board of Commissioners (BOC) signed a parks and recreation bond to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. To save taxpayer dollars, and to afford inmates an opportunity to work off sentences, the CSO and the BOC partnered to keep county parks in good order.

Currently, the CSO has three inmate crews that are supervised by a deputy sheriff. Each crew consists of an armed deputy with three to five inmates. Each inmate is selected by utilizing a safety matrix to ensure quality and control. Only non-violent offenders are selected and are closely supervised by the deputy. The inmates volunteer to participate in the program, and if selected, are afforded a reduced sentence.
Our team is led by Cpl. Larry West. Cpl. West is an intimidating 62, 325 pounds and looks like a Scottish highlander. His other crews are supervised by Deputy Brown and Deputy Lingerfelt, both experienced deputies.

Every time I see a crew out working, I make a point to stop and shake each hand to express my sincere appreciation for their hard work. It has been my experience that these men know they have made a mistake, or a series of mistakes, yet appear to be taking proactive steps in the right direction.

Last year, I had a crew member visit me after serving his sentence. Ill call him John. John is a big man and a hard worker. I first noticed him due to his strong work ethic and his distinct voice when he said, Mornin, Mr. Reynolds. Being on the crew is not easy and certainly not for the faint of heart.

When I got to work on the morning of Johns visit, we met in the parking lot. Dressed in his newly acquired civilian clothes, he extended a firm handshake and a sincere, Thank you. We went to my office, and he spoke about his new path and his life goals. I was privileged to listen to Johns story, and I was moved by his words. At the conclusion of the meeting, we shook hands, and he gave me a bro-hug. Id be lying if I told you I wasnt a little choked up. Last I heard, he was working with his dad and doing well.

It has been my experience that we are all one bad decision away from finding ourselves in an unfortunate circumstance. Usually, its self-inflicted. Yet, we can all redeem ourselves if we choose to do so. Its never easy, but all things are possible.

John, I hope you are doing well and keeping your word. God bless.