Titles and Blurbs

By Sheriff Reynolds

I recently attended the funeral service of a young man I had never met. A week prior to this funeral, I received the notification of a single vehicle crash on Old Orange Mill Road. The message indicated four Creekview students were in a serious vehicle crash one fatality, two serious and one minor injuries.

As the sheriff, I receive emergency notifications multiple times a day, but vehicle accidents always make my heart sink. I immediately called my son who is a senior, no answer. After a few minutes, he called me, and I was instantly relieved to hear his voice.

As I drove to the scene of the crash, all I could think about was the fact that a mother and father will not have their child anymore. A brother will be forever gone, and a friend was taken from us all too soon. This is not the first fatality Ive been to that involved a young driver, and it certainly wont be the last, but as a father of three children, my heart hurts every time.

Over the next few days, I learned more about Stevie Smith from his family and friends. By all accounts, he was well liked by his classmates, had a good sense of humor, enjoyed sports and video games, and loved life.

While learning more about Stevie, I could not help but think of Maddi Phillips. She was a beautiful young lady who passed away in September 2017 while driving to school not too far from Stevies crash. I then began to recount all the lives I have seen lost to tragic vehicle crashes over the years.

I know I can be a demanding parent at times, but I felt compelled to talk with my son once again. This time, it was about being a safe passenger and a defensive driver.

Reminders to My Son

1. Other people can get you killed.
First, do not get in a vehicle with a driver if you have concerns about their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. If you feel the driver is operating the vehicle in a manner that endangers your life, get out. Ask the driver to stop the car and get out.

2. Green does not mean go.
Green means, look both ways prior to entering the intersection. I often watch other drivers at intersections. Try it. Most people are not aware of their situational surroundings. They simply proceed because the light changes, without ensuring the intersection is clear of any approaching vehicle.

3. Slow down.
Our statistical data indicates that speed is one of the most critical factors in fatal crashes. Analyzing our data from last year suggests that most of our vehicle-related fatalities occurred in rural areas and not in particularly congested portions of the county. This is most likely due to open roadways and the ability to travel at greater speeds.

Although there are numerous contributing factors in vehicle-related crashes, the one common denominator is human error. As a parent, set a good example for your children by driving the speed limit and obeying all traffic laws. Your children will follow your lead whether you are a good driver or a poor one.

To the friends and families of Stevie Smith and Maddi Phillips, our hearts and prayers are with you.

Offering Continuity of Care in a Patient-Focused Practice

By Cyndi Braun

Want to have a beautiful smile? Whether its time for braces, restorative work, or regular dental cleanings, its time for Serenity.

Established five years ago, Serenity Smiles now has multiple locations in north Georgia, including Roswell, where patients receive care in one convenient office.

Dentists at this independently owned practice provide quality care, using the latest technology and best treatment methods. The practice offers a full range of adult and family dentistry services, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and oral surgery.

In todays world, in everything you do, people look at your smile first. When you are happy with your smile, you have more confidence in yourself, said Dr. Susan Podray, orthodontist and owner of the practice. Our goal is to help our patients attain the smile theyve always wanted.

Quality Orthodontic Care
When most people think of orthodontic treatment, they think of braces. But, at Serenity Smiles, orthodontic treatment is more than just braces. By preventing, diagnosing, and treating facial and dental irregularities, a gateway to self confidence and a better life for teens and adults is created.

As a private practice, Serenity Smiles does not have corporate mandates dictating how they care for patients. Instead, providers make treatment decisions based on customized needs of individual patients. In addition, patients can be sure that the orthodontist they see at the beginning of treatment will be the same one they see when treatment is completed.
One-third of Dr. Podrays patients are adults seeking to straighten their teeth and correct misaligned jaws. Adults get braces for a variety of reasons. Some are tired of crowded teeth that are difficult to clean properly; others just want to improve their appearance. In some cases, a dentist recommends orthodontics prior to performing restorative care.

Through orthodontics, we can have a really beautiful effect on patients of all ages, said Dr. Podray. I love what I do, and I have an amazing team. We work hard to achieve results quickly and gently, and we do our best to make sure patients are happy and comfortable during treatment.

Treatment options include:
Invisalign
Using clear plastic trays that are changed every couple of weeks, patients wear Invisalign for 22 hours a day to straighten their teeth. The appliances are removed for eating and drinking as well as brushing and flossing.

InBrace Lingual Braces
For patients who desire invisible treatment, InBrace Lingual Braces are a great choice because they are placed behind the teeth. Patients floss normally and dont have to worry about removable appliances like Invisalign.

Damon Braces
These high-technology, tie-less braces dont need to be tightened and are gentle to the teeth. The Damon System means fewer office visits and shorter treatment times. They are available in metal or clear.

Braces With Colors
Gone are the days of boring traditional brackets. Todays teens can choose neon, metallic, bold, and pastel colors.

After patients complete their corrective treatment, Dr. Podray recommends wearing a retainer for life to ensure that straightened teeth do not relapse over time. She encourages patients to choose a fixed retainer because wearing a retainer consistently ensures the teeth remain straight.
Comprehensive Dental Care
Dr. Steven Foltz, the family dentist at Serenity Smiles, provides dental care for patients of all ages. Services include routine exams, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, root canal surgery, and dental emergencies. Dr. Foltz customizes care by building relationships with patients.

I get to know my patients and what they want to accomplish, and we work together towards their goals, said Dr. Foltz. We make the dental experience comfortable, even offering TV or Netflix to distract patients. I use gentle techniques born out of compassion to make sure my patients have a positive experience.

The orthodontist and dentist often work as a team to transform smiles. For example, Dr. Podray might make the foundation of the bite better, so Dr. Foltz can perform restorative care such as crowns and implants. Having both providers at one location makes the transformation more convenient for patients.

My treatment approach is that a healthier mouth means a healthier you. I love helping my patients to improve both their oral health and their overall well-being, said Dr. Foltz. Im going to do everything I can to help my patients maintain their teeth.

Serenity Smiles

Call for a free consultation
Open on Saturday

Hours
Monday-Saturday
8:00am-5:00pm

415 E. Crossville Road (Highway 92)
Roswell
678-461-4875

Serenity-Smiles.com
Facebook.com/SerenitySmilesDentistry
Instagram.com/SerenitySmilesDentistry

Professional Media Services Within Reach

By Cyndi Braun

If you want to transform your corporate or nonprofit event from average to extraordinary, its time to contact VoiceoverCity Media Services (VMS). Through livestreaming, audiovisual rentals, and other services, this company helps area clients build connections, increase revenue, and improve fundraising.

I enjoy getting out there and interacting with people, said Gerald Griffith, VMS president. Whether Im doing a live production or setting up an AV rental, I get to engage with people. I find out what it is they want to do with their business or event, then I bring skills to the table to help them grow.

Griffith first became interested in the voiceover field after working as a radio announcer while serving in the Army. He graduated from Strayer University with a degree in computer networking then worked in the technology field. In 2012, he started a meetup group to get people together to learn about voiceover. As the meetup grew, Griffith started developing classes then established a conference called VO Atlanta, which has grown from 125 attendees in 2013 to more than 700 in 2018. With the success of the conference, Griffith decided to expand his business to include livestreaming, audiovisual rentals, as well as voiceover services and podcasting.

Live Events
With todays technology, you never have to miss an important event. Through professional live event broadcasting, VMS helps clients reach their audience, wherever that audience might be. The company streams the event then feeds the content to YouTube, Facebook, and the clients webpage. Through these services, VMS can help clients grow their audience, extend their brand, and connect with the people they are trying to reach.

I enjoy live events because I can be involved and tailor the services to the clients specific needs. I advise nonprofits to use livestreaming when they hold their next fundraiser, so instead of only reaching the people who attend the event, theyre able to reach hundreds more through live broadcast. And if they include an option to donate, that increases the fundraiser, said Griffith. By watching the livestream, constituents will feel like they are part of the action, which will build connections. All they need to do is access the internet to be immersed in the experience.

Numerous companies, churches, and nonprofits have already taken advantage of VMS professional offerings. Griffith provides ongoing livestreaming for 1 Million Cups, an entrepreneurial group that meets biweekly in Woodstock. He also provided a live broadcast of Easter services for Momentum Church, which enables the church to spread fellowship and ministry to people across the country. This fall, he provided live video for middle school football games and served as the official livestreaming company for the Georgia Middle School Athletic Association 7A Football Championship.

Parents love livestreaming. It gives people an opportunity to engage in something thats happening now. It gives out-of-town grandparents a chance to see their grandchild in action, said Griffith. Even in the stands, I sometimes see parents watching the livestream because they can see the replays and sometimes have a better view of the game.
AV Rental
If youre looking for audiovisual assistance, VMS can handle that as well, through rental services that include setting up the AV equipment for individualized needs. With a convenient location in Woodstock, businesses and nonprofits can stop by to pick up or drop off equipment. VMS also offers delivery and set-up services if requested.

We only work with quality products and provide clients with the tools they need to succeed, said Griffith. Companies call us to set up, make sure everything works, and provide on-site support if needed. We make it easy and convenient, so the client can focus on the event itself.

Available High-Quality Rental Equipment
LCD projectors
Expandable and tripod screens
Microphones, mixers, speakers
Video cameras

Serving the Community
VMS continues to expand its reach throughout Cherokee County and beyond. Griffith works with Etowah High School students to give them an opportunity to learn the field and get valuable experience. His children assist with live productions by operating the graphics computer or a camera during a broadcast. VMS is also a Partner in Education.

We are Cherokees local resource provider. Based here in Woodstock, we can help clients reach far and wide, throughout the country, said Griffith. We partner with our clients and are fully engaged in the services we provide. Our goal is to add value to their efforts and help them make the connections they need for success.

-Livestream Events
-Sporting Events
-Religious Events
-Educational Happenings
-Corporate Gatherings
-Conferences
-Fashion Shows
-Special Events

VoiceoverCity Media Services

Facebook.com/VoiceoverCity
VOAtlanta.me
1700 River Park Boulevard, Suite 102, Woodstock
678-439-9490

Is one of Them Right for You?

by Travis Clifford

While there are currently many diets that people can choose from, the four most popular are the Ketogenic (Keto), Paleo, Whole30, and intermittent fasting diets. To help understand which one may be best for you, continue reading for a description of each.

Keto
The Keto diet has become extremely popular and for good reason. As obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other diet-related issues become more prevalent, many individuals have turned to the Ketogenic diet for a potential remedy to these issues with great success. The goal of Keto is to put ones body into a state of ketosis.  

Ketosis is when the body uses ketones as its primary fuel source. When your body doesnt have enough blood sugar (glucose), it turns to fat for energy. Carbohydrates are the main source of glucose, so when you eliminate them, or only ingest a very small amount, you force the body into ketosis. However, its important not to get caught up in the low carb part while ignoring the high fat part. Keto is as much about ingesting high amounts of healthy fats as it is about maintaining a low daily intake of carbohydrates. While following the Keto diet, you want to keep your insulin response very low because insulin is the bodys primary fat-making hormone. Under stimulation by insulin, fatty acids are made into fat molecules and stored as fat droplets.

The macro ratios for the Ketogenic diet are prescribed as such: 60-80 percent of your daily calories should come from fat. Fifteen to 35 percent of your daily calories should come from protein. Five percent or less of your daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Your total amount of daily carbohydrates should always be less than fifty grams, and its recommended that you stay closer to 25 grams, but this depends on the individual response to carbs, which varies.

Many Keto dieters purchase ketone strips to test their level of ketones to ensure that they are in ketosis. This is not necessary if you are following the prescribed percentages, but it can be a useful tool if you want to see how your body is responding.  

Paleo
The premise of the Paleo diet is to nourish your body like your hunter-gatherer ancestors did. The Paleo diet includes meat, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Excluded from the Paleo diet are processed foods, grains, refined sugar, flour, and dairy. Whereas the Ketogenic diet follows prescribed percentages of macronutrients, there are not any percentages involved in the Paleo diet. In general, you want to eat plenty of protein, which is usually recommended as one gram per pound of body weight, or sometimes as one gram per pound of lean body mass.

Studies have shown remarkable improvements in ones health when processed foods are eliminated while on the Paleo diet because we are supplying our bodies with more nutrient-dense foods, and these nutrients are much more bioavailable (more easily absorbed). This is very important; just because a nutrient is there doesnt mean it can be absorbed.  

As far as weight loss is concerned, your satiety while eating whole foods with ample protein should come from less calories than what would be required from processed food. A meal of meat and vegetables with some avocado will be far more filling not only in the moment of the meal but for several hours to follow than an equal number of calories taken in from eating chips, pizza, pastries, cereal, etc.

Whole30
Research indicates that many chronic health conditions are linked to inflammation. These conditions include diseases of the digestive tract, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, cancer, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, periodontal disease, psoriasis, and depression. Whole30 is based on the belief that processed foods, sugar, grains, etc. cause inflammation in the body and therefore focuses on allowing your body a chance to heal and recover from any effects these foods may be causing.   

Whole30 is a more restrictive form of Paleo. The Whole30 plan does not allow for sugar or any type of artificial sweetener. It does not allow for alcohol, grains, legumes, or dairy. Ideally, the foods you eat while on Whole30 should not have any added ingredients; they should all be whole and unprocessed. To quote one of the points made on the Whole30 website, A pancake is still a pancake, even if it is made with coconut flour.

Whole30 is derived from the founders ideology that if you give their system 30 days, then your life will be changed. Their website states, The next 30 days will change your life. It will change the way you think about food. It will change your tastes. It will change your habits and your cravings. It will restore a healthy emotional relationship with food, and with your body. It has the potential to change the way you eat for the rest of your life. They also add that there is absolutely no room for cheating in this 30 days not even a lick of a cake batter spoon.  

Intermittent Fasting
As mentioned earlier, insulin leads to fat storage. Eating causes the body to raise circulating levels of insulin. In the fed state, insulin promotes an increase in the storage of glycogen and fat to be used for energy. By contrast, in the fasting state, low insulin concentrations contribute to lipolysis. Lipolysis is the breakdown of fats and other lipids. This encourages the body to use these lipids for energy instead of glucose.  

Due to American diets, many people have become insulin resistant because they are overstimulated by the high amounts of sugar and processed foods in the typical American diet. Intermittent fasting allows the body a break from producing insulin, which helps our bodies reverse their insulin-resistant state and become more insulin sensitive.

Its important to note that intermittent fasting is not cutting calories. If you are following its prescribed protocols, youll still consume your calorie goal for the day. However, those calories are consumed in a smaller window than what is considered the norm. A popular form of intermittent fasting is the 16:8 window, so each day, you schedule 16 hours of fasting and consume all your calories in an 8-hour window.  

As far as weight loss is concerned, the results seem to vary by individual, as they should. Intermittent fasting still ultimately depends on a caloric deficit to produce weight loss. However, the more interesting aspect is the effects that fasting has on the bodys cells. Fasting is a type of stress, and healthy cells can adapt to this stress and survive. Unlike normal cells, cancer cells cannot undergo this adaptation and survive the stress imposed upon them.  

Recent research has concluded that short-term starvation conditions, or modified diets that promote similar changes, have the potential to enhance standard cancer therapies. This information seems to suggest that fasting could provide an alternative to chemotherapy for very early-stage cancer patients who may not be sufficiently at risk to receive chemotherapy. In patients with advanced malignancies, fasting cycles in combination with chemotherapy could extend the survival of patients by both retarding tumor progression and reducing the side effects of chemotherapy.  

While most people who undertake one of these eating styles are concerned with weight loss, it should be noted that in this regard, the main mechanism behind fat loss is a calorie deficit, as in eating fewer calories than your body burns over a prolonged period. A great tool for anyone looking to change how they eat is an app called MyFitnessPal. The only other tool needed is a food scale, which can be purchased very inexpensively. Track your food intake for at least one week, and you may be surprised how quickly the calories add up.  

The best advice for weight loss is to decide on your daily caloric goal. Consume that number of calories while also weighing yourself first thing in the morning each day before eating or drinking. If after a few days you notice you are either maintaining or gaining on average, then you know that you need to lower your calorie intake in order to lose weight. Try lowering your goal by 300-500 calories each day. You will hardly notice this slight shift, which could be as simple as cutting back on the amount of creamer in your coffee and substituting water for a soft drink. The key to success is to remain consistent, as is suggested in these tough love quotes found on the Whole30 website:

This is not hard. Dont you dare tell us this is hard. Fighting cancer is hard. Birthing a baby is hard. Losing a parent is hard. Drinking your coffee black. Is. Not. Hard. Youve done harder things than this.

Dont even consider the possibility of a slip. Unless you physically tripped and your face landed in a pizza, there is no slip. You make a choice to eat something unhealthy.


Sources - PerfectKeto.com, WebMD.com,
KetoConnect.net, KetoSavage.com, TheKetogenicAthlete.com/intermittent-fasting-and-fitness, NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov, Blog.TimRyanMD.com/diet, Mercola.com, DietDoctor.com, MarksDailyApple.com, Whole30.com

By Jim Cheatham

Happy New Year! The promise of new beginnings and excitement that comes with the advent of the new year is palpable. Many of us will make resolutions, and many of us will break them. While some have found a loophole in the system and have made a resolution to never make any more resolutions.

We will also celebrate the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service this month an entire day where we are encouraged to get out and volunteer in our communities, giving us an opportunity to get involved with others, for the benefit of others, for the common good of the community.

Service is not a new concept to Alpharetta Public Safety. If you ask our men and women why they got into public safety, they will likely answer that they desired to serve and help others. You will see Service Above All painted on our fire trucks, and the number one way we meet our mission of improving quality of life is through a servants heart.

Last month, the annual Army-Navy football game was played. If you have never attended one of these games, you should add it to your bucket list. Its about so much more than the game. Not only do you have two football teams that will graduate and serve as officers in our armed forces, you also have the March On of the cadets and midshipmen who will serve as our militarys future leaders. Dont forget the fans. Most of them either served their country themselves or are the family of a service member. The whole stadium is filled with respect and honor. You are surrounded by people with a servants heart, and it is an incredibly inspiring experience.

So, lets start a new trend. Lets find our servants heart and make a resolution that we can keep. Lets join together all year for the greater good of our community. Lets turn north Fulton into an atmosphere like the Army-Navy game.

How do we do this? What does that look like? While everyone may not agree on things or want things the same way, we can be respectful and have honor in our actions. It can be as simple as a sidewalk greeting, friendlier driving, a wave, or a smile. If you want to do more, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities throughout our community. Alpharetta Public Safety has Citizens Corps programs for those with a heart to serve. No matter what you decide, it just takes that servants heart in all of us to make our community truly awe inspiring in 2019.

Here's How You Can Help!

by Rachel Sprouse

As the new year starts, commercials shift from holiday messages to gym memberships, and focuses change from donations to New Years resolutions. While some worry about what foods to eat to live a healthier lifestyle, others are struggling to put food on their plates.

Although the holidays are a great reminder to donate to local charities to support those in our community, the need for basic resources like food is a year-round issue. In 2017, 40 million Americans struggled with hunger in the United States. In Georgia, one in seven people are not certain where their next meal will come from, according to Feeding America.

Food insecurity can affect people from every background, but many arent sure what it is or how to help end this growing problem in our communities. Food insecurity is the inability to consistently provide food for your household.

According to Millie Hughes, director of the food pantry operation at Never Alone, food insecurity often arises because of difficult choices a person must make.

They can either pay the light bill or purchase food, Hughes says. Its not necessarily that theyre not trying [or] not having a job. Its just theres not enough to go around to provide all the needs that they and their family have on a monthly basis.

To supplement the lack of resources, many go on food stamps, now known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This program allows families to stretch their food budget and offers assistance to those who struggle with food insecurity. Many households also reach out to local food banks and food pantries for assistance, like the Atlanta Community Food Bank and Never Alone.

Since it began five years ago, Never Alone serves about 300 families in Cherokee County, acting as a resource for those in need. From their building, they can warehouse donations and allow people to shop for their food in a dignified way.

We feel like theres a lot of food insecurity in the area, and we need to address that, Hughes says.

According to Feeding America, many food-insecure households that received assistance in 2014 live at or below the poverty line. Poverty can come about in many ways, but it can be categorized as situational or generational.

Situational poverty develops from a change in a persons daily life. These changes can vary from job loss, death in the family, or change in access to transportation, among other issues. Situational poverty can be short-term or long-term, depending upon the circumstance, and can progress if left unresolved.

Generational poverty, however, is a much harder form of poverty to help others recover from, according to Hughes. Generational poverty describes families that have lived in poverty for at least two generations.

Who knows why it ever started, but then its a cycle that continues, Hughes says. One thing they have found is often the people in generational poverty are not really supportive of those getting out of generational poverty because theyre afraid of it. They dont understand, and they feel so bad about themselves, theyre not necessarily supportive.

Although both types of poverty are present in north Georgia, based on her experience helping families, Hughes thinks we have more cases of generational poverty present in our community. North Georgia also has a higher rate for food deserts, which Hughes says many people have misconceptions about.

A food desert just means its harder to get there, especially fresh fruits and fresh vegetables, Hughes says. Fresh food, not just canned.

Knowing that our area has a high rate of need, we can help those who struggle with hunger in our communities by supporting local food banks and food pantries throughout the year. Whether its a financial or a food donation, consistently supporting a food pantry helps families who struggle to put food on the table.

One way to support your community is to run a food drive within your workplace or group of friends and neighbors. If youre not sure what to collect, reach out to the food pantry and get a list of what they need.

When someone hears about a food drive, they always think green beans, corn, and carrots, Hughes says. But we need soups; we need canned pastas and tuna.

Another way to help eliminate food insecurity in our area is to make a financial donation. Food pantries can put your financial donations to good use and acquire food at a lower cost than in a store.

With the start of a new year, remember that need and poverty carry over from the year before. Make it a resolution to support your community, and donate or volunteer at your local food pantry. You never know which friend or neighbor you may be helping.

Food Pantries
in Cherokee County

Bascomb Mission Thrift Food Pantry
9550 Main Street, Woodstock
678-324-7937
BascombChurch.org
Hours: 10:00am-5:00pm Wednesday-Friday;
10:00am-4:00pm Saturday

Least of These Ministries, Inc.
Serving all of Cherokee County
770-547-4045
Hours: Call for an appointment

MUST Ministries
111 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton
770-479-5397
MustMinistries.org
Hours: 10:00am-2:00pm Monday-Friday

Never Alone Food Pantry & Clothing Outreach
291 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock
770-363-5272
NeverAlone.org
Hours: 10:00am-2:00pm Monday-Friday
10:00am-2:00pm first & third Saturdays of each month

Papa's Pantry
6551 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock
770-591-4730
PapasPantry.org
Hours: 9:30am-2:30pm Monday & Friday
9:30am-4:30pm Tuesday-Thursday

Timothy Lutheran Church - Timothy's Cupboard
556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock
770-591-5515
TimothysCupboard.org
Hours: Appointments available
8:00am-12:00pm Tuesday & Thursday

Food Pantries
in North Fulton County


The Drake House - Food Pantry
10500 Clara Drive, Roswell
770-587-4712
TheDrakeHouse.org
Donation Hours:
Call for drop-off times.

World Harvest Church
320 Hardscrabble Road
Roswell
770-643-9223
WorldHarvestChurch.org
Donation Hours:
Call for drop-off times.

North Fulton Community Charities
11270 Elkins Road, Roswell
770-640-0399
NFCCHelp.org
Donation Hours:
9:00am-5:00pm Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
9:00am-7:30pm Tuesday and Thursday

"Life is all about experiences"

The Experiences Foundation was started to offer amazing experiences to individuals, and/or their families, who have suffered a tough break in life. After dealing with our own personal experiences from losing family and friends to cancer and suicide and childrens illnesses we decided it was our mission to help those who have dealt with similar situations, said Experience Foundation Founder Chad Blake. Whether it is bringing someone to a ball game, sponsoring a family for a camp, bringing Christmas to senior citizens, having a field day with a group of children, or spending a day with someone who works in their dream profession, the Experiences Foundation looks forward to offering many local fundraising events and programs to help those in need. They like to think of the organization as a mini Make-A-Wish meets Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

After working with hundreds of non-profits for more than 12 years through a fundraising organization called Angel Auctions, Experience Foundation administrators had an easy way to select Experiences recipients through these charities. However, they will still utilize local schools, churches, and individuals to help bring those in need to their attention. Most of their experiences will last just a single day, but they also do multi-day camps and scholarships to help as needed.  

With over 20 years of working in north metro Atlanta, Experiences Foundation has created relationships with many different businesses, non-profits, foundations, and a ton of great individuals who will help them fulfill their experiences. Although most of their events will involve children and their families, they also adopt seniors and foster residents during the holiday season and fulfill their wish lists. Ultimately, they just want to make our community a better place to live.

Part of giving back to the community is bringing exciting fundraisers that encourage networking and fellowship. Their first golf fundraiser was a major success towards their goals of helping those in the community. There were 18 golf teams, 32 sponsors, and 12 different celebrities who helped them reach their goal of $10,000.

As they continue to bring the community together, Experiences Foundation will be hosting a Charity Collaborative at the Yanmar Evo Center on January 26 from 6:00-9:00pm. This will be a great networking opportunity for local non-profits, individuals, and companies that are looking to do more for their community. Entry is $20 per person and includes two drink tickets, a raffle, and a silent auction, all while supporting the charities involved.

Experiences Foundations next fundraiser, TopGolf FORE a Cause, will be at TopGolf in Alpharetta on April 28 from 2:00-5:00pm. It is a family friendly event, and all skill levels are welcome. Top players will win prizes and trophies. Early bird tickets are $75 for golf, all-you-can-eat buffet, gift bag, raffles, and silent auction. Tickets are $30 for non-golfers.

For more information, visit ExperiencesFoundation.org or Facebook.com/ExperiencesFoundation. For volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, contact Chad Blake at 678-386-4513 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Lets make our community a better place to live because life is all about experiences!

Listen Up - The Rumours are True

By Jules Taylor

Mekenzie Jackson, Doug Easterly, Adrienne Cottrell, Alex Thrift, Nick Whitson, and Daniel Morrison have been bringing Fleetwood Macs sound to stages across the country since 2014. What began as Mekenzies love for Fleetwood Mac as a teenager has grown into a commitment to exercising her talent as the voice of Stevie Nicks with her bandmates and dedicated fans along for the ride.

Alex and Mekenzie began the group in 2014 with just the two of them and a desire to simply play some Fleetwood Mac. After Mekenzies initial request, Alex quickly insisted that if this was going to happen, it had to be a tribute band. Alexs neighbor, Adrienne, joined soon after on keys with Doug, Daniel, and Nick collected from various spots around the Atlanta music scene.

Inspired by diverse musical backgrounds including Korn, the 90s, Tom Petty, and the Beatles, the band now known as Rumours taken from the name of Fleetwood Macs 1977 album sells out shows to Fleetwood Mac/cover band lovers as well as opportunistic concert goers.

When asked about the balance of life, touring, and family, Doug credits FaceTime as a saving grace for maintaining his family relationships. Both Doug and Alex find that touring has surprisingly given them opportunities to see family members they wouldnt otherwise see. All members agree that the thrill of touring and being on stage is worth it, even with the hours-long car rides that drive them crazy. Their fans, some of whom have seen the band upwards of 10 times, agree: Their hard work is totally worth it.

As far as advice for aspiring musicians, Mekenzie says, Be really, really good. Adrienne chimes in with a poetic warning, saying anything you do has to move your soul. These bits of advice are evident in Rumours. The passion each member has on stage, their dedication to music in general, and their natural talent merges to create a show that mesmerizes audiences and thrills their fans. In addition to their skillful musicianship, the vibe among band members is reminiscent of family. Laughter, jokes, and teasing one another is a regular part of the pre-show ritual, as Mekenzie curls her hair, costumes are donned, and everyone hydrates for the night ahead.

Undaunted by the shoes they are attempting to fill, Mekenzie loves that even though they are playing someone elses music, They [the audience] are experiencing our show; thats what makes it different from other Fleetwood Mac tributes, too its our own thing.

Even in their own imitation of Fleetwood Mac, they find that others have begun copying their unique style. One example, Mekenzie says, is sitting on the edge of the stage singing Landslide, which was inspired by Butch Walkers rendition of Canyons from the edge of the stage, without a microphone. Shes noticed that other bands have begun a similar tradition. It seems only right that this incredible tribute band should have their own tributes.

Imitation, after all, is the highest form of flattery.

By Farris Yawn

Are ghosts real? What about demons? What happens to us when we die?

Author Terry L. Kemp continues to explore these questions in the follow-up to his first novel, Until Its All Over, where Zach Dawson reluctantly answered heavens call to help the poor souls trapped in our world to find peace and to battle the forces of evil that would exploit them.

In Bending Heavens Will, Zach answers heavens call once again, as he battles the malevolent forces seeking his destruction. He understands his mission and abilities much better, but he also faces much more powerful and determined foes. An attack drives him from his north Georgia refuge into the mountains of North Carolina. As his enemies grow, can Zach build a team of allies, living and dead, strong enough to drive back the forces of darkness?

The question remains: What would you do in the moment you realize you are dead?

If you enjoy ghost stories, be sure to get this book. It is available in print or eBook editions at Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com, or YawnsPublishing.com. Kemps first book is also available at Amazon.com.

Kemp is, in his words, battling his way through the crazy, tangled jungles of education after a career in the corporate world. He is a lifelong resident of Georgia, where he lives with his wife and two daughters.

By Julia Padgett

Ann Patchett starts us off in California with oranges and gin then weaves a tale that spans fifty years and ends in the snow of Virginia. The opening of Commonwealth should be taught in creative writing courses as how to hook a reader with the complicated lives of family.

Commonwealth has unsettled some of its readers because it flashes forward in time quickly, and decades get skipped and revisited. So, if you like linear, maybe have an open mind before you pick up this book. But if you love characters, word choice, and pondering what life decisions can mean on a larger scale, then you will love Commonwealth.

The story opens with the christening party of Fix Keatings daughter when an uninvited guest shows up with gin and ends up stealing a kiss from Fixs wife Bev. The chapter and sequence of events makes you hungry to learn more about those beautifully crafted people, but instead, Patchett throws you forward, and before you know it, you are following the lives of the many children who became a blended family from marriages ending. In particular, you get to know Frannie, the child of Fix and Bev, and you see how she struggles as a young adult, enters into a relationship with a famous, beloved author, and makes decisions that bring up the pain of loss and the past.

This book does a marvelous job of examining how shame and secrets can drive a wedge that lasts for decades in people. The very public way that the family is about to be exposed to their past is unique and provides enough tension, so readers dont flounder too long in the drama. But the artistry of how Patchett brings those tensions to you never telling, only showing brief glimpses is the definition of a writer who is at the top of her form.

Commonwealth can be a complicated read. But once you are in it, you are just experiencing all the gorgeous flaws and promise of family.

Butternut Squash Puree Ingredients
-1 head butternut squash, peeled and insides removed
-Milk (enough to cover squash)
-1/2 stick butter
-Salt and pepper to taste

Butternut Squash Puree Procedure
-Cut the butternut squash into large pieces and place in a medium sauce pan.
-Cover the squash with milk and bring to a boil.
-Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until squash is tender.
-Strain the squash, reserving some of the milk to add to the puree.
-Puree the squash and butter in a food processor. Add some reserved milk (if necessary) to get your desired consistency.
-Add salt and pepper to taste.

Andouille-Crusted Swordfish Ingredients
-4 8-ounce swordfish fillets
-1 pound ground andouille sausage
-3 eggs
-1/2 cup mayonnaise
-1/2 cup Dijon mustard
-Salt and pepper to taste

Andouille-Crusted Swordfish Procedure
-Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to create a Dijonnaise and set aside.
-Mix ground or finely minced andouille sausage and eggs. If you purchased andouille links, put them in a food processor until minced. Set aside.
-Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
-Place the swordfish on a sheet pan with oil, and salt and pepper the fillets to taste.
-Lightly spread Dijonnaise on the swordfish.
-Cover the swordfish with the desired amount of andouille sausage mixture.
-Bake for 15-20 minutes depending on the thickness of the swordfish. The andouille crust should be nice and crispy.
-Remove the swordfish from the oven and serve with your favorite side dish.

Artistically Diverse

By Justin Jones

Sometimes, art speaks in surprising ways. Early in her career, Roswell painter Emily Vickers reluctantly brought a painting of a tree to a festival where she was selling her work. She hated the painting so much that she wanted to tear it to pieces. It depicted a tree underscored by a quotation from Robert Frost. However, at the behest of her partner, she brought the painting anyway and it was the first item she sold that day.

Though Vickers graduated from the University of West Georgia with a degree in chemistry, art has been a significant part of her life since she was very young. From age nine to twenty-five, she took private lessons from Dona McEachern, and she took many art classes in school. Vickers also completed a study abroad in Bayeaux, France, an experience that has continued to affect her art ever since. Some might think the pairing of painting and chemistry is odd, but Vickers says that the arts and sciences used to be rightly grouped together. Some artists may feel more artistic by disassociating from science and math, but that isnt Emily Vickers.

Vickers style is consistent in its inconsistency. In fact, she has been asked how many artists she is showcasing at her booth when it only contains her work. Despite this diversity, her Impressionistic background is embedded in every piece she creates, though she admits she is more illustrative than traditional Impressionists. Vickers works mainly in oil and acrylics but branches out to other mediums upon occasion. Her greatest influence, though, is her tutor, Ms. Dona, and the French Impressionists have a special place in her heart and eye.

Vickers started showing her art in 2012, and her first gallery showing was in 2017. Even though she continues to work in quality control for an immunoassay group, she offers encouragement to artists who want to make a living through their art. Hard work is the key, Vickers says, but it is possible. She advises new artists to try styles and materials outside of their usual repertoire. Not every work will be a success, but she suggests you may be surprised by what you create if you take a risk. Vickers also encourages artists to share their successes and difficulties with others in the industry. Sometimes, she reports, artists become too protective over their achievements. She even once had a fellow artist refuse to share the name of the company that produces her prints because that printmaker belonged to them. Vickers believes that everyone in the artistic community would benefit from encouraging each other to go further with their dreams.

Icarus is Vickers favorite painting so far. She is particularly proud of it because it is the first painting she created in which her artistic execution caught up with her artistic vision. It was the first time what she saw in her mind actually ended up on the canvas. To see Icarus and other works by Vickers, visit CreatedByEmily.com, or email her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The City of Ball Ground Past, Present, and Future

By Karen Jordan

The City of Ball Ground is rich in history, and recently, many came together to celebrate it. Ball Ground Historical Society President Nancy Sosebee Madden kicked off the festivities with, Happy birthday Ball Ground!

Mayor Rick Roberts expressed his excitement about Ball Grounds progress after years of somewhat limited growth and change. Ball Ground has become a very desirable destination for new residents, visitors, and businesses. The City receives many positive comments about our ability to simultaneously maintain growth and our unique sense of place and no one ever mentions rocks anymore which is a great change!

Attendees spent the afternoon reminiscing with old friends about the good ol days while looking through historical pictures and documents from local churches, families that once owned and operated a business in Ball Ground, and local civic organizations.

Did you know long before Regions Bank came to Ball Ground there was a Citizens Bank? Lifelong resident and former Citizens Bank Vice President Jennie Byers displayed many interesting newspaper articles along with the original bank charter issued by the Secretary of State on September 28, 1826. Founding bank board members were H.H. Hardin, A.P. Roberts, M.G. Hendrix, W.M. Aaron, W.W. Groover, J. Wheeler, and C.T. McWhorter. Citizens Bank was located downtown until it outgrew its small building and relocated to its present-day location on Canton Highway 5.

The Frosty Bar, owned by Nora and Ollie Nix, was a popular hangout and dating site for young and old alike for 32 years. Noras daughter, Kay Fowler, displayed the old milkshake machine along with a bar stool, car hop tray, and other items that brought back fond memories of this popular site.

Richard Haithcock and Doug Dabbs displayed pictures of the Ball Ground Masonic Lodge #261, which was chartered in 1866. This organization was and is an important part of Ball Ground.

Ball Ground First Baptist, Sharp Mountain Baptist, Mica Baptist, and Ball Ground United Methodist Churches displayed pictures and other items related to their individual histories. Ball Ground First Baptist was established at the same time as the City of Ball Ground. Each of these churches have great respect for their history and in maintaining their historical records.

As we get older, we often gain an increased respect for history and its preservation. While every picture, newspaper clipping, or magazine article cant be saved, we can strive to save the important ones. People like Jennie Byers, Kay Nix, Tony Stancil, Anna Rainey Ballew, and many others have done just that. If they had not, so much of Ball Grounds past would be lost, and this event would never have taken place.

The celebration of Ball Grounds 135th birthday was a day to remember. It was a day of sharing stories of good times passed and wondering what the future holds for the place we all hold near and dear to our hearts.

By Julie Senger

During the holiday season, we often get so busy due to increased seasonal events, out-of-town visitors, added cooking and cleaning duties, and, of course, shopping for gifts. All these added responsibilities often mean that wrapping those carefully selected gifts becomes a last minute, throw-it-in-a-gift-bag-with-some-tissue-paper endeavor and thats OK. But perhaps you have a special gift or two that you really want to take the time and energy to wrap in a creative way. A way that tantalizes the receivers imagination about what could possibly be inside. A way that looks so visually appealing, he/she almost doesnt want to open it almost. Here are a few ideas for those precious presents that will get you thinking outside the box, literally!

Map It Out
This idea is perfect if you are giving a gift that is made in a specific location thats special to the receiver, or if you are giving someone a trip to a location on the map you choose to use. Since so many people use online maps or GPS for their navigation needs, thrift stores are a great place to try to find a discounted atlas containing a map of your desired location.

Sweet!
Kids of all ages will love receiving a gift with a favorite treat attached to the top instead of a traditional bow. Use single-serving sized bags of candy, tie some ribbon/yarn around the center, and voila! You have an edible gift topper!

Reuse / Recycle
For smaller items (think socks, gloves, undies, costume jewelry), decorated paper towel/bathroom tissue rolls make super cute wrapping containers. Add stamps, stickers, ribbon, drawings, or bows to embellish these upcycled small gift holders.

Farmhouse Fun
This popular interior design theme doesnt seem to be going anywhere any time soon. So, if you want the gifts under your tree to match your interior decor, pick up a roll of brown butcher paper, some jute twine or neutral-colored yarn, save the branches that you trim off the bottom of your live tree (or go to your nearest live-tree lot to see if they will let you have their castoffs), and create this naturally trendy look. Pick up ribbon or fabric in your homes accent colors/patterns to personalize this idea even more. A great thing about butcher paper? Youre not limited to December holidays. You can dress it up for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions by simply changing your adornments.

Hanukkah
To celebrate the Festival of Lights, why not use glow sticks as a fun gift topper for children? Tie unlit glow sticks in a neat bundle to adhere to the top of the gift, so the recipient can activate the glow solution later. Or, if youre wrapping a gift at the last minute, activate the glow sticks (see individual package instructions), and adhere the lighted rods in a fun pattern atop the decorative paper.

Musically Gifted
If youre giving someone concert or musical theatre tickets; a CD or an iTunes gift card; a musical instrument; or perhaps a nostalgic gift in which a particular song played a special part; use sheet music to wrap your present. If the item is too large for a single piece of sheet music, or if youd like to be subtler with your gift hint, make a sheet-music bow instead.

By Jim Cheatham

December is a great month with much to celebrate. Unfortunately, it is also a month that can see an increase in damage and injury from fire.

We typically see our first real cold snaps this time of year, making it a good time to warm up around the fireplace. Before you light your first log, check the chimney for soot buildup, make sure your flue is open, and use a fireplace screen to prevent embers from popping out and burning the floor or carpet. You should avoid burning new wood, and do not use the fireplace as a way to get rid of wrapping paper. Never use lighter fluid or other flammable liquid to start your fire.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, one out of every four Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems. Christmas tree fires are far deadlier statistically than other house fires, with one in 32 resulting in a fatality. A dry Christmas tree can take less than thirty seconds to engulf a room in flames. Keep your tree well-watered and away from heat sources. Artificial trees that are flame-retardant are a safer choice.

Old decorative lighting and improper installation are another reason for seasonal fires. Be sure to inspect your lights before installation. Frayed wires, broken sockets, and damaged bulbs should not be used. Follow manufacturer instructions. Dont string too many lights together, and check that ground fault interrupters are functioning properly.

Candles cause two out of five home decoration fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, with the top three days for home candle fires being Christmas, New Years Day, and Christmas Eve. Make sure candles are on firm, sturdy surfaces away from anything flammable. Do not leave candles unattended.

The number of fire fatalities caused by children playing with fire also goes up during this time of year. Set a good example, and dont play with fire or matches. Your children are watching and will mimic your behavior. Teach responsible use of fire and matches, and always provide adult supervision.

Cooking is another leading cause of fires during this time of year. The U.S. Fire Administration suggests you stand by your pan and turn the burner off if you leave the kitchen. Pay attention to what you are cooking, and turn the burner off if you see smoke or oil starts to boil. Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove, and keep a pan lid or baking sheet handy to smother a fire if necessary.

Have fun and enjoy each others company. Decorate and celebrate to your hearts content. By heeding these few simple precautions, you can ensure a safe and happy holiday season.

Tips to Avoid a Crash

By Sheriff Frank Reynolds

Cherokee County is currently considered the fastest growing county in Georgia. With that growth, we will experience more traffic congestion and vehicle-related crashes. The use of the word crashes instead of accidents in that previous sentence was intentional because most vehicle wrecks are preventable.

Here are a few tips that may help you avoid being in a vehicle crash:

Drive Defensively
You may consider yourself a good driver, but not everyone is as responsible as you. In 2017, Cherokee County responded to 34 fatality accidents. A few of these crashes caused double or triple fatalities involving neutral parties. Constantly keep your attention on the road and what the other vehicles are doing around you.

Following too Closely
(O.C.G.A. 40-6-49)
The No. 1 contributing factor in most vehicle crashes is following too closely. This is true in both low-impact and high-speed related crashes.

Keep a distance of two or three seconds of time and space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This means that it should take you two or three seconds to reach the same spot as the first vehicle, which should give you time to react to a sudden stop, lane change, or debris coming from the road.

Too Fast for Conditions
(O.C.G.A 40-6-180)
The law states, No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for the actual and potential hazards then existing.

This mostly refers to driving in the rain. Drivers often want to resume normal driving speeds after a heavy rainfall but fail to recognize the rain runoff hazards. Too fast for conditions also applies when negotiating sharp curves and steep grades.

Distracted Driving
(O.C.G.A. 40-6-241)
This past July, Georgia passed a hands-free law regarding cellular phones. Please use a hands-free device such as a headset or Bluetooth. The next time you are stopped at a traffic signal, look around at all the other drivers staring at their laps. You cannot text when stopped at a traffic signal, even if the phone is mounted.

Driving While Impaired (O.C.G.A. 40-6-391)
While weve all heard, Dont drink and drive, there are some who still do. The availability of companies like Uber and Lyft make it convenient to ensure your fun evening does not involve the Reynolds Hotel (what some people call the jail).

Also, make sure your medical prescription does not indicate, Do not operate heavy machinery. Your vehicle is considered heavy machinery. Even though a doctor prescribed medication, it does not lessen the burden on you. Remember if you consume alcohol, there may be a compounding effect. Consult your physician if you have any concerns.

Please make sure you and your family minimize your risk of being the victim of a preventable traffic crash. We all share the road. If you would like more information about traffic safety, please contact Traffic Enforcement Commander Lt. Turcotte at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Celebrating 10 Years in Canton

By Cyndi Braun

10 Year Anniversary Sale
Everything in the store 40-50% OFF through December 24!

For ten years, River Fine Jewelry in Riverstone Shopping Center has offered excellent customer service and fine jewelry at reasonable prices.

Owner Ibrahim Ehican is the third generation of his family in the jewelry business. Both his father and grandfather were jewelry artisans, making custom jewelry in Istanbul, Turkey. Ibrahim came to America fifteen years ago to continue his familys business.

Today, Ibrahim, his wife Beyhan, and his sister Ece enjoy serving customers at River Fine Jewelry. The family lives out their Christian values in the way they interact with their customers and conduct their business.

We are not just a jewelry store. We are a family, said Ibrahim. We strive to make our customers happy. We consider customers our friends, and we are willing to work with them to make their dreams come true.

The shop carries a broad selection of jewelry, including hundreds of engagement rings, many high-end watches, and a custom-made collection that includes unique jewelry sold nowhere else. Customers often remark that the stores selection is better than any other store around, perhaps because Ibrahim custom-makes seventy percent of the jewelry.

This jewelry store is the best in the Canton area, said William Cody in a Google review. They have a huge inventory of engagement rings, diamond tennis bracelets, stud earrings, and many more. The owner is very friendly and professional. Highly recommended!

Helpful employees can answer questions about individual pieces of jewelry. They educate and inform customers, and they take the time to get to know each customer, so they can help him or her find the perfect piece of jewelry at the right price.

Many customers enjoy being involved in creating a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry for a special milestone such as an engagement or anniversary. River Fine Jewelry works with these customers throughout the design process to create a unique piece of jewelry. The entire procedure, start to finish, is completed in-house.

The store also has a jewelry repair and watch center, where employees can repair jewelry while customers wait. They repair watches and replace batteries for Swiss watches such as Rolex, Omega, Breitling, Ebel, Raymond Weil, Tag Heuer, and many more. In addition, River Fine Jewelry offers same-day insurance appraisals and purchases gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, and Rolex watches.

Whatever the customer needs, River Fine Jewelry is ready to help.

We offer the finest jewelry and the best customer service, said Ece Ehican. We do our best to make our customers happy, and we look forward to helping them choose the perfect gift this December and always.

Looking for a special gift, I came across River Fine Jewelry and have to say that the quality, craftsmanship, and - of course - value were precisely what I was looking for.The service is second to none, and I look forward to presenting my wife with a gift that is special and unique. Steve Unwin

Truly one-of-a-kind pieces. So many places have the same old generic stuff. Owners are knowledgeable and forthright. Any reasonable issues or concerns addressed to your satisfaction. Christopher Hobel

River Fine Jewelry provides affordable high-quality jewelry. The website is easy to navigate and full of information and excellent photos. The owner is most professional and a pleasure to deal with. Pat Flynn

River Fine Jewelry

1431 Riverstone Parkway, Canton
678-880-0400
RiverFineJewelry.com

December Hours

Monday-Saturday
Dec. 1-14 10:00am-7:00pm
Dec. 15-24 10:00am-8:00pm
Sundays 12:00-5:00pm

Find us on Google, Facebook and Instagram
Facebook.com/riverfinejewelry

The Arbor at BridgeMill Now Open

By Cyndi Braun
Opening by Katie Barber

With the holidays upon us, its time for family traditions, get-togethers, good food, and warm smiles. 2019 will be a time for self reflection and open minds, while we prepare to write a new chapter in our lives. The Arbor at BridgeMill, a luxury senior living community just off Sixes Road in Canton, hopes that youll consider a fresh start there and allow them to earn the right to be a part of the next big decision in your life.

We offer a state-of-the-art community with four different neighborhoods to meet the needs of each senior, said Jerry Rick, Executive Director of The Arbor at BridgeMill. We have a heated indoor/outdoor swimming pool, spacious game rooms, billiard room, an art room, theater, fitness center, 24-hour access to staff and nurses, emergency response system, two beauty salons, and much more. But, what makes us truly unique is what we call The Arbor Service Way, and thats our commitment to providing the best service possible.
Independent Living

Seniors who live independently but desire the social aspects of a community can choose from two options at The Arbor at BridgeMill:

Open concept, two-bedroom cottages with front porches, walk-in closets, all appliances, and garages.
One- and two-bedroom apartments with open floor plans, eat-in kitchens, granite countertops, full-size appliances, and balconies.

Independent residents can be free from tedious chores while participating in an active social calendar. Residents also enjoy beautifully landscaped open courtyards, comfortable areas to catch up with friends and family, and delicious restaurant-style dining.

Assisted Living
Assisted living suites feature bright and airy luxury accommodations for residents who require a little more assistance. Each suite has a wireless emergency call system, so residents can easily call for help. A highly- trained staff supports residents 24 hours a day, which gives them peace of mind. Residents enjoy regular housekeeping and laundry services, delicious dining, a separate secured courtyard with beautiful landscaping, and a full social calendar.

The Arbors four levels of care ensure residents receive assistance tailored to their individual needs. The resident care director, who is a registered nurse, determines the appropriate level of care by completing a comprehensive assessment of each residents abilities and needs. These assessments are reviewed routinely, so resident needs and staff assistance are always aligned.

Memory Care
Memory care suites include the same comforts as assisted living. Memory care residents also have access to their own private secured courtyard where they can enjoy the outdoors in a safe area.

Staff members receive unique, multilevel, cognitive-care training, so they have the skills to interact positively with people experiencing memory loss. They pair this training with individualized programs proven to improve quality of life.

Dining With Dignity
For residents who need dining assistance, The Arbor recommends its award-wining Dining with Dignity program. This program uses preparation methods to create food options that hold the same nutritional value as a regularly prepared meal, but in a form that allows residents to maintain independence and dignity.

Chefs complete special training that incorporates ingredients that allow for easier chewing and swallowing. Meals are prepared in bite-size pieces, eliminating the need to use utensils. All of this is offered in an elegant plate-and-table presentation.

The Arbor Company
The Arbor Company manages The Arbor at BridgeMill, which includes 26 stand-alone cottage homes, plus 110 independent living, 54 assisted living, and 16 memory care apartments. Founded thirty years ago in Atlanta, The Arbor Company has Thirty two communities in
ten states.

Call today to schedule your tour.

The Arbor at BridgeMill

700 Freedom Boulevard
Canton, GA 30114
770-691-0022
ArborBridgeMill.com
Facebook.com/arborbridgemill

By Cyndi Braun

If your to-do list is overwhelming and you feel like something is missing this season, take a moment to reflect. The days leading up to Christmas should be filled with hope, peace, joy, and love. Perhaps its time you add Celebrate Advent to your list.

Advent at First Baptist Roswell creates anticipation, excitement, and joy, as we wait for Christmas Day, said Senior Pastor Kevin Head.

For the past 35 years, First Baptist Roswell has celebrated the beginning of Advent with the Greening Service held on the first Sunday of December. The Greening begins with a procession of fourth through twelfth grade choir members carrying poinsettias. The poinsettias, given in honor or memory of loved ones, are used to decorate the sanctuary.

While the Christmas decorations are set in place, the childrens choirs, youth choir, and chancel choir sing Christmas anthems, and worship leaders explain the symbolism of the decorations. For example, the circle of evergreens in the Advent wreath represents Gods eternity and perfection, while the candles remind us that God gave our world of darkness a gift of light through Jesus Christ. With the greenery in place, these stories help the church mark the beginning of Advent. At the end of the evening, all choir members (past and present) join in a solemn performance of O, Holy Night.

During December, the church offers two additional musical events that are also free and open to the public. The church orchestra and other instrumental groups present Instrumental Melodies of Christmas on December 9. The chancel choir presents One Incredible Moment on December 16.

Each Sunday during Advent, children light the candles of the Advent wreath. As an intergenerational church, First Baptist Roswell encourages the entire family to participate in worship and provides opportunities for children to take part.

On Christmas Eve, the church offers two services: 5:00pm and 11:00pm. Each service includes communion, Christmas carols, and a candlelight singing of Silent Night. The earlier service is designed for families with children.

Advent Sermon Series
Since the traditional themes of Advent (hope, peace, joy, and love) are missing from many of our lives, Dr. Head created a sermon series called Desperately Seeking, which explains why we need these things and their true origin.

We stumble through our days unaware that the nagging emptiness we feel is often because we experience a lack of hope, peace, joy, and love, said Dr. Head. Everyone desperately seeks these things.

Every Sunday during Advent, Dr. Head addresses each theme, inspiring the congregation to follow Christ. Stop by on Sunday to hear Dr. Heads sermon.

Week 1
Dec. 2 Desperately Seeking Hope, Isaiah 2:1-5. Our hope is not based on this world getting better, cleaner, wiser, or safer. The good news of Christmas is that our hope is found and experienced in this simple statement: Christ has come and promises to be with us always. Gods presence with us in every situation of life is our true hope.

Week 2
Dec. 9 Desperately Seeking Peace, Mark 1:1-4. Peace seems sorely lacking in our world today. Many people ask, Where is peace? Where can I find and experience peace? The good news of Christmas is found in realizing that we cannot create true peace only God can do that through Christ Jesus. But what we can do is similar to John the Baptist. We can prepare the way for Christ to create true peace within us and in our world.

Week 3
Dec. 16 Desperately Seeking Joy, Luke 1:46-55. Millions of people live every day of their lives without joy. The lack of joy spreads chaos not only in the mind and soul, but also affects people physically. God wants us to live a life filled with joy. Jesus said, I have come that you might have life and have it abundantly. The good news of Christmas is found in the lyrics of one of our favorite Christmas carols: Joy to the World, the Lord is Come.

Week 4
Dec. 23 Desperately Seeking Love, Matthew 2:13-23. The greatest need in life is to know that something or someone greater than us loves us. The purpose of Christmas is to send a message of love to every person: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. Christmas reminds us that God is desperately seeking us and loves us unconditionally.

All Are Welcome
First Baptist Roswell offers music selections from all ages, beautiful decorations, participation from members in worship, lighting the candles of the Advent wreath, and an intentional focus on the traditional themes of Advent, said Dr. Head. This season is a holy, sacred time, and we hope you can join us.

Whatever your faith, whatever your age, First Baptist Roswell invites you to enjoy a month filled with Advent music and worship services.

Advent Events

December
2
Greening Service The Colors of Christmas
The 35th annual Greening Service includes performances by the childrens choirs, youth choir, and chancel choir. During the evening, the sanctuary is decorated with wreaths, garlands, and flowers. Young people participate in a procession of poinsettias purchased in memory or in honor of loved ones. The event ends with O, Holy Night, performed by current choir members, as well as former members, many of whom return specifically for this service. 6:30pm

9
Instrumental Melodies
of Christmas
FBR Orchestra presents a variety of sacred and secular Christmas music. Legacy Flute Quartet, FBR Woodwind Quintet, Mimosa Brass Ensemble, and Jubilee Ringers Handbell Choir will also perform. 7:00pm

16
One Incredible Moment
The chancel choir performs, as FBR celebrates the majesty of the manger, the splendor of the star, and the anthem of the angels while proclaiming redemptions timeless plan: In One Incredible Moment, God became man. 7:00pm

24
Christmas Eve
FBR offers a child-friendly 5:00pm candlelight service, as well as a traditional 11:00pm evening service. Both include communion. 5:00pm and 11:00pm

Advent Symbols

Advent Wreath
Circle of evergreens represents Gods eternity and perfection. Candles remind us that God gave our world of darkness a gift of life through Jesus Christ.

Garland Greenery
The green color symbolizes the everlasting light of Christmas and reminds us that the new life God gives us will never die.

Chrismon Tree
Gold and white ornaments represent majesty and purity. Each ornament symbolizes a Christian theme, including star (hope), dove (peace), butterfly (resurrection/joy), and heart (love).

Poinsettias
The star of the leaf represents the star that stood over the Christ child. The red flower represents the blood Christ shed.

First Baptist Roswell

710 Mimosa Boulevard
Roswell
770-587-6980

Worship Services
8:30am & 11:00am
FBRoswell.org