Titles and Blurbs

By Jessica Asbell

New neighbors! Those words can either bring happiness or despair, depending on who moves in. So, imagine Abbys surprise when she goes next door to meet the new neighbors and finds herself face to face with the love of her life when they are both married to someone else.

After pushing Liam away following the death of her brother in an accident that was her fault, Abby slowly finds happiness again with Nate. They move away, build a life, and have a daughter, Sarah. But their picture-perfect marriage is put to the test when Liam, Nancy, and their son, Zac, move in. As Liam and Abby hide their past from their spouses and fight their feelings for each other, lies are told, spouses grow suspicious, and a rash act means the end of life as they know it.

In The Neighbors, author Hannah Mary McKinnon explores what happens when an ex-boyfriend moves next door. Abby is broken after the death of her brother. A tragic character, Abby never forgives herself and believes that she is not worthy of happiness. So, she builds a life, away from the one she loves the most, in hopes that by denying herself true love and happiness, she can pay penance for her brothers death. Told from the eyes of Abby, Nate (the husband who worships her), Sarah (their daughter), and Nancy, the not-so-nave wife of Liam, we see firsthand how lies can invade someones death and infect everything they touch and how there might be more going on in the neighborhood than meets the eye.

At times heartbreaking, and at other times witty, The Neighbors is a complex view of how well we know our neighbors, our families, our spouses, and ourselves. When nothing is as it seems, how can we know what the truth is? And when your world falls apart, where do you turn? If you are looking for drama and a dose of domestic suspense, pick up a copy of The Neighbors.

By Annell Gerson

Atlanta gives rise to another talented new voice in its ever-expanding literary community. Author Ricki Schultzs most recent release, Switch and Bait, continues her trademark of irreverent humor, insightful characters, and the complications of being single and trying to find the one in the 21st century.

Blanche Carter has a dream. Someday, she wants to own her own bookstore. Shell never save up enough money just working her day job, which happens to be managing a bookstore, so she resorts to something else shes good at matchmaking. Guided by a self-made list of rules for survival, Blanche runs the online dating profiles of Washington D.C.s most eligible women. For a fee, she will create the perfect profile then banter via text with potential partners until interest is at its peak, and its date time.  In some cases, she even attends first dates, sitting in disguise nearby, texting conversation tips to her client. Shes a marketing genius and text-flirts with ease, efficiency, and effectiveness.

All goes well until a new client wants to be matched with an unresolved fling from Blanches own past. As one of Blanches rules is no relationships (for herself), she thinks she can handle the situation. Normal circumstances might make things manageable. However, this old fling is Henry, and Henry is Islas brother-in-law, and Isla is Blanches best friend, and Isla has Huntingtons disease.  In other words, because of Islas illness, Henry and Blanche run into each other often first at family dinners and celebrations, then in hospital waiting rooms. Professionally, Blanche needs to help Henry and her client connect. Personally, it means she must ensure any lingering feelings for Henry are squashed, which makes her question how she really feels about him.

Shultz skillfully navigates the complexities of the current dating climate, revealing that though technology has changed much about the process, the results remain the same. In the end, love is all about chances, and whether desperate to find love or keep it at bay, the heart rarely pays attention to rules.

An Eye Opening Experience

By Julie Senger

At Family Life magazines, we are constantly looking for ways to get involved in the community because its our community, too, and we feel this better equips us to provide interesting, impactful information that allows us to continue to connect with you our friends and neighbors. With this in mind, when I read about the inaugural Cherokee Sheriffs Citizens Academy, I seized the exciting educational opportunity to learn about the important and often dangerous nature of what these brave men and women do to protect us on a daily basis, so I could share my experience and help raise awareness.

The inaugural Sheriffs Citizens Academy was a ten-week course, with class one night a week except for week ten, which had an extra class Saturday morning for gun range instruction and graduation. There was also an opportunity to schedule a ride along with a patrol officer outside of class time. My classmates came from all walks of life: doctors, attorneys, Boy Scouts, restaurant owners, retirees, and many other backgrounds.

The first night of class began with Sheriff Frank Reynolds welcoming us. In his speech, he made it very clear that the notion of We (the Sheriffs Office) got this! is no longer a reality. He wanted to be sure that we understood his desire to partner with Cherokee citizens to help keep our community safe, stating that, None of us is as smart as all of us. Sheriff Reynolds was also very quick to point out the hierarchy/chain of command upon which the citizens of Cherokee County sit at the very top, above himself he works for us.

Sheriff Reynolds was followed by brief self-introductions of all the other instructors who would be teaching us about their respective areas of law enforcement in the coming weeks. One thing was clear after the introductions were complete: every single one of these instructors sincerely loves their job.

Week 2 Uniformed Patrol
During this class, we learned that there were more than 115,000 calls in 2016, and that the Cherokee Sheriffs Office (CSO) uniform patrol officers drove more than 1.5 million miles within Cherokee County. Each patrol officer receives twelve weeks of training before hitting the road. After class, we were able to go outside to see the different patrol vehicles and all the state-of-the-art technology they contain. We were also given the opportunity to sign up to ride along with a patrol officer.

I rode along with Cpl. Butler of the BridgeMill Precinct. While nothing more than a traffic stop occurred during our patrol, Cpl. Butler did explain the protocol for the more serious types of calls they must answer, and had one of those occurred, for my safety, he would have dropped me out at a public place to be picked up. I was also allowed to use the radar gun to track the speed of drivers who were driving down a very popular parkway in Cherokee.

Week 3 Administration and Adult Detention Center (ADC) Operations and Tour
CSOs ADC has 512 beds. During the time of the class tour, there were no open beds, and new inmates were issued a thick floor mat, a pillow, and linens until a bed became available. In the ADC, men, women, juveniles, and mental health patients are separated into different areas. The male inmates are divided and housed based upon severity of crime. As there are not nearly as many female inmates, they are all housed in the same area, regardless of crime severity.

Week 4 Use of K-9s in Law Enforcement
The CSO had five K-9s at the time of this class. Each K-9 is trained for 1.5 years in Holland, with another 2-3 months of formal training with their handler after they are purchased by the CSO. The best dog breeds for K-9 work are Dutch Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. Each K-9 costs an average of $15,000. These intelligent, disciplined dogs are trained to detect bombs and narcotics as well as recover evidence/missing persons. CSO K-9s respond to all in-progress crimes in which a suspect can escape/flee. This class concluded with an impressive K-9 demonstration of narcotics recovery as well as a handler donning a bite suit to show how these dogs help officers aggressively apprehend dangerous suspects.

Week 5 Traffic Enforcement Unit
-The statistics we learned in this class were quite staggering. Be careful out there, and please wear your seat belt!
-The CSO has only eight officers to cover the over 400-square miles of Cherokee County.
-There is an average of four traffic accident fatalities each month in Cherokee County.
-Forty percent of these traffic accident fatalities could have been prevented if seatbelts were worn.
-Seeing a traffic enforcement officer parked on the side of the road will deter a driver from speeding for an average of four miles.

Week 6 Criminal Investigation Division (CID)
There are thirty officers to investigate all crimes in Cherokee County. CID handles crimes against persons, property, and children as well as financial crimes.

In 2016, there were 1,400 crimes reported against children in Cherokee. Property crime is also quite overwhelming. A lot of property crime consists of theft from vehicles with the doors left unlocked, so please lock your doors even in your own driveway.

At the conclusion of this class, we were given an opportunity to dust for fingerprints, collect crime scene evidence, and analyze blood spatter patterns in mock crime scenes. We also visited the crime lab to learn about its evidence analyzation equipment.

Week 7 Court Services
This class consisted of a tour of the old jail and old courthouse. There are quite a few interesting stories of items that inmates tried to deliver or receive to/from people on the outside from the top floor windows of the old jail. In addition, we were able to tour areas that are normally closed off to the public in the new courthouse, and we learned about all the security measures that are in place to ensure safety in the courtroom.

Week 8 Special Operations
(HNT, SWAT, and STRIKE)
There are fourteen members on the CSO Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT). The members on this team must have above average negotiation and problem-solving skills. They have eighty hours of in-class training, and they are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their goal is to resolve hostage situations peacefully and safely. Some of the unique pieces of equipment that the HNT uses are a rolling office; a long-range acoustical device (LRAD), which allows them to speak with individuals through a brick wall; and if all else fails SWAT (special weapons attack team).

CSOs SWAT consists of 37 individuals who endure very rigorous physical training before being admitted onto the team, some of which is very similar to Navy SEAL training techniques in that candidates must complete tasks while being deprived of sleep for at least 24 hours. SWAT members must also complete an eight-hour course on gun and shooting laws. Their objective is to take out a suspect in five minutes or less, and they have some pretty intimidating artillery, including a Sig MPX, with which to accomplish this goal.

The STRIKE teams objective is to operate and deliver the communications support vehicle, emergency rescue vehicle, all terrain vehicles, SWAT transport vehicle, hostage negotiations vehicle, mobile command post, robot, and other assets to critical incidents. They provide multiple communications and technology capabilities, provide incident commanders with a mobile command post, provide for the establishment of a tactical operations command, document critical information during on-going operations, and staff critical technical and communications support positions.

Week 9 Cherokee Warrants and CMANS
The CSO Warrant Unit serves subpoenas, warrants for misdemeanors and felonies, temporary protective orders, 10-13 orders, and FIFAs. Interesting statistic eighty percent of violators are repeat offenders. As you can imagine, this can be a very dangerous/difficult job, as no one is ever happy to see a warrant officer at their door.

The Cherokee Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad (CMANS) provided some startling information:
-Eighty Percent of domestic violence issues are related to substance abuse.
-One billion in cash comes through Atlanta to Mexico each year for methamphetamine sales.
-85 percent of the worlds recreational drug use occurs in the U.S.

Week 10 Training and Gun Range
The training that CSO deputies are required to complete is extensive (60+ hours, and they must requalify each year). Many also choose to go through additional advanced training and/or take college courses.

The CSO gun range consists of the following:
-25-yard qualifying range
-Live-fire shoot house with multiple rooms, allowing for numerous force-on-force scenarios
-100-yard rifle range and fifty-yard multipurpose range
-25-yard open bay range used for static steel targets
-Six reactive steel lanes (Bill Rogers lanes)

Before my classmates and I could shoot and utilize the CSO gun range, we were taught these cardinal rules of firearms safety:
-Always assume the gun is loaded.
-Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
-Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire.
-Be sure of your target (behind it and beside it).
-Never draw a weapon behind the firing line unless instructed to do so.
-Dont anticipate commands.

We then had the option to use the high-tech, judgmental pistol shooting simulator, which is an interactive video training system that allows students to walk into an active shooter situation, carry on conversation with a potential active shooter and other video characters, and determine whether the use of deadly force is warranted. This is a very realistic system and valuable training tool.

Finally, students met on a Saturday morning to use the gun range. Many of my classmates were very adept and comfortable handling guns. I was not very relaxed, as it would only be the second time in my life that I had ever shot a firearm. My hands were shaking vigorously as I attempted to load my magazine with bullets. My instructors were very helpful and quick to put me at ease. By the end of the day, not only had I shot the standard issue pistols that the CSO uses, I was also confident enough to shoot an AR-15.

Overall, this course gave me the chance to better understand what our police officers go through from as close to their perspective as a civilian can get. The next class has been streamlined down from ten to eight weeks and will begin September 4. All the same topics will still be covered in the eight-week course. This free, unique opportunity is made available to the first twenty citizens who sign up and pass/fulfill all the necessary paperwork/background check requirements. For more information, email Joshua Watkins at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 678-493-4097.

By Cyndi Braun

Established in 2014, The Factory Church is passionate about making disciples and being the church the other six days. While Sunday services offer authentic worship and biblical teaching, The Factory desires to make disciples and equip them to share their faith with a world desperate for truth and the saving power of Christ Jesus. Dont be satisfied with just going to church. BE the church the other six days.

Planting a New Church
After spending many years as a youth minister and worship pastor, Keith Norman began to feel a calling to pastor a church. One night while studying the Bible, he thought about how the first Christians fed the poor, cared for orphans and widows, loved their fellow man, and were passionate about sharing the gospel of Christ, every day of the week. It was never about just Sunday. He wondered why modern churches couldnt be more like that early church.

Pastor Keith began to meet with a small group of people in his home, including his wife Lucille, daughter Jala, and son Blake. He shared his vision of a nondenominational, racially diverse church that makes disciples for Christ and serves others.

From that small group, the church has grown steadily, and it moved to its current location in January 2015. The Factory now offers three services every Sunday while helping the needy in the Woodstock area and beyond.

What Makes The Factory Unique?
In factories, raw materials are transformed into new products with specific purposes in mind. The same is true at The Factory Church where God transforms people, helping them grow in their relationship with Christ. At factories, each employee has a specific job to do. Similarly, Christians are expected to continue Christs work on earth.

Pastor Keith preaches that Christians should love all people, spread the hope and joy that Jesus offers, and serve the poor. The Factory believes in sharing a genuine love of Christ by worshipping with people who dont look the same or vote the same and by serving others.

All ethnic groups, all faiths, even non-Christians, are welcome at The Factory.
At the end of the day, if you have a pulse, we really want you here, said Pastor Keith, laughing. Jesus loved people that other people wouldnt love. He had compassion for everyone.

Sunday + the Other Six Days
While the worship team offers an amazing Sunday service, the Church emphasizes living out the faith the other six days of the week.

Ive done a series called On. That means getting up in the morning, reading, praying, treating the kids a certain way, treating your spouse a certain way. Not just turning your Christianity on from 9-11 Sunday morning, said Pastor Keith. If youre part of the Bible Belt, you probably learned religion. You put on your nice clothes on Sunday, and you go to a church where everybody looks like you. When you finish, you go out to eat, then you go home and watch football. You dont think about refugees or care about poor people, or even your rich neighbor.
Pastor Keith encourages church members to practice their faith throughout the week and guides them in specific areas in which they can help the poor.

One of the Churchs primary focuses is providing clean water to poor villages in Africa. During a mission trip to Tanzania in 2009, Pastor Keith was shocked to see the villagers drinking filthy water. He decided to raise money to build a well to provide clean water to that village, specifically to benefit children in an orphanage. Since then, The Factory has constructed eight wells in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. The wells are dug in coordination with village churches.
In addition to the wells, The Factory Church provides support to feed about 200 orphans at a Tanzania orphanage each Saturday and has recently partnered with an organization in Uganda to build a church for worship services and community use.

Locally, the Church offers lunch the first Saturday of the month for people who are homeless or nearly homeless. They also conduct regular food drives to provide additional help to those
in need.

Join The Factory
After attending services at The Factory, many people feel touched by the Holy Spirit. The message, the music, and the fellowship bring people together in a way that leads them to follow Jesus. If youre interested in the other six days, join The Factory this Sunday.

Service Times
8:00am,
10:00am,
and Noon

9872 Main Street
Woodstock, GA
770-517-7265

TheFactoryMinistries.org
Facebook.com/theothersixdays
Twitter.com/FactoryMinATL
Vimeo.com/thefactorychurch

Rescue. Rebuild. Reunite.

Ahimsa House is dedicated to addressing the link between domestic violence and animal cruelty. They offer services and assistance to victims of domestic violence with pets in Georgia, and work to raise awareness of this connection in communities throughout the state.

In families affected by domestic violence, pets are also at risk. Abusers threaten, injure, and kill family pets to terrorize others in the home; yet most domestic violence shelters are unable to allow pets to accompany their owners to safety. Nearly fifty percent of individuals delay escaping the abuse because of concern about their pets. Ahimsa House, meaning nonviolence, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the links between domestic violence and animal abuse. Anywhere in Georgia and at no charge, Ahimsa House provides emergency pet safe housing, veterinary care, pet-related safety planning, legal advocacy, a 24-hour crisis line, outreach programs, and other services to help the human and animal victims of domestic violence reach safety together.

Originally, Ahimsa House maintained a central shelter for animals at a secret location in metro Atlanta. In fall 2006, they recognized the need to change their program model to operate more cost-effectively and to better serve victims statewide. In March 2007, Ahimsa House launched its redesigned direct services program, which houses animals via a network of foster homes and boarding facilities across the state.

Ahimsa House works closely with a network of volunteer foster homes and partnering boarding facilities across Georgia, which allows them to serve the entire state. Animals can stay for up to sixty days, which roughly corresponds to the length of stay permitted by most domestic violence shelters, but they are flexible about extending this time period in situations of ongoing need. Thanks to their foster homes, they can accommodate not only dogs and cats but also a variety of other animals such as birds, small animals, reptiles, and horses. The animals receive veterinary care as needed during their stay, ranging from basic vaccinations to treatment of injuries or illnesses caused by abuse or neglect.

As of December 2017, Ahimsa House had provided over 63,300 nights of safe, confidential shelter for pets in need. In 2016, they took in 27 percent more animals than in 2015, and requests for their services went up by 34 percent. In 2016, they received over sixteen times the number of calls to their 24-hour crisis line than they did in 2007, the year their program decentralized.

For more information, or to get involved with Ahimsa House, please visit AhimsaHouse.org, or call 404-496-4038.

Building a Strong Foundation

By Cyndi Braun

Its a hot, humid summer morning, and a steady stream of cars are buzzing along Marietta Highway, past the Rock Barn, and beyond. Meanwhile, Jey Willis stands with his State Farm team, studying the rock structure of the historic barn and reflecting on the importance of a strong foundation in Christ.

In the Bible, Jesus tells Peter, Upon this rock, I will build my church. Jesus is the rock. The foundation of the church is Christ, said Jey, a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and local businessman.

Helping others build a strong foundation with Christ has been a lifelong passion of Jey, who works with teens in his church and in the Boy Scouts, teaching them the gospel, serving as a positive role model, and guiding them in life lessons. Likewise, his State Farm team is active in the community through the Chamber of Commerce.

Because of the Chamber of Commerce, the Boy Scouts, and my church, were able to serve this community and serve Christ, said Jey. And State Farm enables us to do both.

Serving the Community

Established with a commitment to serving others, the Jey Willis Insurance Agency includes eight team members who all believe in taking care of their neighbors, serving their community, and living their Christian faith.

We enjoy helping people, said Jey. We joined the Chamber in 2006, which gives us the opportunity to serve individuals, businesses, our community, and the county. Yes, it enables us to network. But for me, its about being able to take care of somebody elses need, and the Chamber gives us an avenue to do that.

When the Chamber of Commerce has a need, even if its as simple as cooking hamburgers or handing out water at an event, the entire Jey Willis Agency wants to help.

Jeys State Farm team has participated in numerous Chamber activities, including the Chick-fil-A Cherokee County Moove It 5K, SchmoozaPalooza, Teen Leadership Cherokee, and high school football games. Jey has served in leadership roles at the Chamber and is a graduate of Leadership Cherokee.

Serving Through Church

The church offers Jey another avenue to serve others. Back in 2004, he began teaching Sunday School to high school boys at First Baptist Church of Woodstock, where he also serves on the Mens Conference Committee. Jey enjoys having an impact on students lives by helping them find their way in the Lord.

Jey also heads the churchs mission work in Ireland, where he has led ten mission trips with youth. Teenagers work with adults from their church to share the gospel and Bible lessons with the people of Ireland, many who do not know the Christian faith.

We use drama and music to attract a crowd, and then when a crowd shows up, we take a break and engage people in conversations, said Jey. We go where we know people need to hear the gospel. We really dont care if they are Baptist or Methodist or Episcopal or Catholic or whatever, as long as were sharing the true gospel, thats what I care about.

Often, the American teens invite the Irish children to play a game of soccer. At the end of the game, the two teams gather together for a devotional and prayer.

Serving Boy Scouts

As an Eagle Scout, Jey knows the benefits of Boys Scouts and has supported his son in his journey from Cub Scouts through earning Eagle Scout earlier this year. Jey is an assistant scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 465, which meets in Hickory Flat.

Boy Scouts, for me, is the ability to work one-on-one with young men and teach them life lessons. Some of them are physical: tying a knot, sharpening a knife, administering first aid. But some of them are also about serving in your community, said Jey. The goal of scouting is not to earn Eagle Scout; it is to create young men who will contribute to society. I love the ability to be able to do that.

Upon This Rock

The State Farm team shares Jeys commitment to serving others. Built with a strong foundation in Christian faith, the agency has pledged to impact the lives of Cherokee County and surrounding areas, one household at a time.

There are very few people today who will stand up and say the reason I do business is to honor Christ. At the end of the day, my relationship with Christ is what I want people to see and for people to come to know Him through that, said Jey. State Farm enables this office to serve the community and serve Christ all at the same time.

Jey Willis Insurance Agency Inc.
State Farm
147 Reinhardt College Parkway, Suite 2, Canton, GA
770-720-1200
JeyWillis.com

Facebook.com/jeywillisstatefarm/

Personalized, One-on-One Treatment The New Approach to Healthcare

By Cyndi Braun

Sports injury. Back pain. Arthritis. Chronic headaches. Whatever the pain is, its affecting your everyday life. If you want to get back to what you enjoy doing, its time to find a specialist who can help you feel better fast.

Advanced Manual Therapies, LLC, a new family-owned practice, helps patients by offering personalized care in a collaborative setting, with Doctor of Physical Therapy Grant C. Smith providing the latest physical therapy techniques and treatments while Licensed Massage Therapist Lauren A. Yerkey uses therapeutic massage techniques to help her clients.

Meet the Providers

Dr. Smith grew up in Roswell and swam for a local team. He earned his bachelors degree in Kinesiology at Arizona State University and earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy at the University of Miamis Miller School of Medicine. During his rotations, he worked primarily in outpatient orthopedic clinics specializing in sports and manual therapies. He is currently working on a fellowship in orthopedic manual physical therapy with the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy, where he is further specializing in manual interventions including dry needling and spinal manipulation.

Dr. Smith is committed to spending time with his patients, providing one-on-one, hands-on care to help patients with neuromuscular skeletal injuries using dry needling, manipulation, cupping, and other therapies.

A Kennesaw native, Lauren played competitive sports throughout her childhood. After seeing how regular massage therapy helped her recover from sports injuries and improve her overall health, she realized she wanted to help others the same way. She graduated from Atlanta School of Massage and became a licensed massage therapist specializing in sports massage, neuromuscular therapy (NMT), deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and Swedish massage.

Lauren works with clients ranging from serious athletes to people who simply need a relaxing massage.

Individual Attention & Care

We really care about everyone who comes through our door, said Lauren. We enjoy taking the time to get to know our clients personally and hearing how their improved health impacts their daily life. The office treats a long list of ailments including neck and back pain, tension headaches, ligament sprains, plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, meniscal pathologies, labral tears/pain, shoulder/hip impingement, disc/degeneration/herniation, rotator cuff tears, sciatica, hamstring strains, patellofemoral pain, temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), and many other issues that cause pain and discomfort.

I address the pathological tissues causing pain or discomfort at a cellular level, stimulating natural healing factors and natural pain killers in the body, said Dr. Smith. We use the most cutting-edge techniques backed by medical research to avoid the need for medications or surgery.

Treatments Offered

Dry Needling - Thin needles to help reduce aches, pains, and discomfort due to inflamed, irritated, and oxygen-deprived tissues. Only doctors can perform this treatment. Its a medical treatment, not acupuncture.

Manipulation - High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to specific joints to improve mobility, flexibility, and enhance overall arthrokinematics. This is not a chiropractic adjustment.

Massage Therapy - Personalized sessions that address specific needs to improve overall health and well-being. From relaxation to deep tissue and everything in between, massage therapy can address sports injuries, chronic pain, and work-related stress.

Cupping - Rather than a compressive force to manipulate soft tissue top-down, cupping uses a distraction force to manipulate the tissue working from the bottom-up. Research supports an increase in blood flow, improved flexibility, and a decrease in pain following cupping.

A Better Approach to Health

At Advanced Manual Therapies, two specialists collaborate and work together, so clients receive quality care and quick results.

Physical therapy patients see Dr. Smith, not an aid or a personal trainer. One-on-one treatment is more effective and helps patients get better, faster. This model of care is not what youll see at your average clinic, where a therapist works with multiple patients each hour. For massage clients, Lauren offers personalized sessions based on years of experience in cupping, neuromuscular massage, and sports massage.

One-on-one attention with advanced techniques and procedures requires fewer appointments than an insurance-driven clinic, thus reducing the overall cost for treatment.

Free TMD Treatment for Research Study Participation

If you experience lock jaw, clicking when you open or close your jaw, or difficulty opening your jaw, you may be eligible to participate in a research study for temporomandibular dysfunction in return for free treatment for the entire course of your care. Call Advanced Manual Therapies to schedule your free evaluation today.

Call to schedule your appointment today.

Advanced Manual Therapies
1300 Abbey Court, Alpharetta, GA
404-497-7717
AdvancedManualTherapies.com

Facebook.com/advancedmanualtherapies

Instagram.com/advancedmanualtherapies

Remember to Leave a Little Earlier

By Jim Cheatham

Its hard to believe that school is back in session, and, for most of us, summer is over this month. Sure, the heat and humidity will still be around for a while, but the traffic in the morning is going to pick up, and football is back and dominating the discussions at the water cooler.

With the increase in traffic comes the school buses, hundreds of them. None of us like being stuck behind a school bus when on the way to work because of all the frequent stops. However, the professionals over at the school system know what they are doing, and they should be applauded for delivering thousands of children to school and back home safely each day. But when we are running behind, it seems each bus stop is a deliberate attempt to make us late, even though its our responsibility to simply start our mornings earlier to compensate for back-to-school bus routes.

The reason for writing about these stressful morning commutes is because it can cause unsafe conditions, especially for our children who are trying to get to school. A frequent complaint that Alpharettas Department of Public Safety receives is about cars passing stopped school buses. It is the law that you stop for a school bus loading and unloading children, yet cars still continue on. You can tell the school bus is loading and unloading children because of the flashing red lights and the stop sign protruding out on the drivers side. Even emergency vehicles responding with lights and sirens stop until the bus driver gives them a signal that its safe for them to pass.

Only two reasons could explain this unacceptable behavior. The first would be a distracted driver. Hopefully, the distracted driving law passed last month will help with this, but drivers need to be diligent about not letting things take their eyes off the road, especially when near school buses and school zones. The second would be someone who has reached a stressful boiling point, so they knowingly make an illegal driving maneuver to get them to their destination faster. Neither of these are a valid excuse for putting the lives of our children in danger, and both can be completely avoided.

Of course, the Department of Public Safety will be out enforcing the law, but they cant be everywhere. Its a much better solution for everyone to commit to being more attentive, considerate drivers.

Overall, many of us are very stressed and distracted during our morning commute. Hopefully, we all can take a deep breath, find that perfect radio station before we leave the driveway, leave our cell phones alone, and drive to work safely.

hope - love - miracles

Women come to Mary Hall Freedom House (MHFH) from all walks of life, often at their lowest point, in search of change. What they find at MHFH is love, hope, acceptance, and a vision for a restored future. The transformations that take place in the lives of these women are so dramatic and profound, its often deemed a miracle.

Founded in 1996 by Lucy Hall, MHFH serves women and women with children who suffer from the generational cycles of addiction, mental illness, poverty, and homelessness. As a living testimony to recovery, Lucy named the organization in memory of her mother who passed away from alcoholism when Lucy was six years old. Lucy then struggled with her own addictions. After the birth of her daughter, she feared she was destined to repeat the cycle of addiction that plagued her childhood. At the age of 27, Lucy overcame her addiction and felt called to help other women and families struggling to end these vicious cycles. She dedicated her life and organization to liberating other women in need of healing by instilling hope, giving love, and sharing miracles.

MHFH began with one apartment housing two women and has since expanded to a nationally recognized, multi-service provider for comprehensive and innovative care. Through the attention of a dedicated staff of 65, women and children receive comprehensive behavioral health services, sustainable housing, intensive career development, and therapeutic childcare. Eight of MHFHs current staff are graduates of the program, demonstrating the success of the organizations programs and services. Motivated by its continued progress, MHFH expanded its services by adding programs specifically designed to address the needs of homeless veteran women and their children. Veterans assistance includes transitional housing, employment training and placement, and substance abuse and mental health services.

MHFH is at a critical turning point in its organizational history. In 2017, MHFH launched The Pathway to Freedom campaign to fund the purchase of residential real estate for sustainable, long-term housing to establish Atlantas first 24/7/365 low-barrier housing and social detox facility to meet the emergent, critical needs of women, children, and veterans in the community as well as create a permanent home for the organizations support services. The Pathway to Freedom campaign will launch the organization on the path to self-sufficiency and sustainability for many years to come, ensuring thousands of women, veterans, and families have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams of a better life today and tomorrow.

For the past 22 years, MHFH has blossomed into a vital community asset, serving as a safe haven for families, as they undertake the hard work of rebuilding their lives. Women find both comfort and accountability in this supportive environment, as they come to know their peers who are facing the same struggles and challenges. Many describe the connections they make at MHFH as lifelong sisterhood.


For more information about Mary Hall Freedom House, visit MaryHallFreedomHouse.org,
or call 770-642-5500.

Summer Is Here Is Your House Prepared?

By Cyndi Braun

In case you havent noticed, were deep into another hot summer in metro Atlanta. The flowers are blooming; lawnmowers are roaring; and a powerful glare is shining through your windows.

Its a great time to have window tints installed in your home, business, or automobile.

Founded in 2007, All Pro Window Tinting has been Atlantas number one window tinting company for ten of the past twelve years. Owned by Chris DeLuca, the company offers professional customer service, expert installation, and exceptional products.
Professional Customer Service

Wearing his trademark bright shirt, shorts, and flip flops, DeLuca has a way of putting clients at ease. Conversation feels more like catching up with a friend. You talk about family, school, and summer vacation theres no sales pitch. He is interested in hearing about your life and why you called All Pro Window Tinting.

DeLuca understands that quality interaction with customers helps ensure that he meets their needs and budgets. He meets with every client personally, takes the time to understand unique needs, and proposes the best window tinting solution. At the first meeting with each customer, DeLuca leaves product samples and a detailed quote.

Im very laid back and like to take the time to get to know each customer. I enjoy meeting people every day and am very attuned to what customers want, said DeLuca. Our motto is quality is our reputation. You cant find another shop in Georgia that offers the professionalism and quality service that we do. We guarantee satisfaction, and we warranty all of our work.

Services Offered

The Atlanta sun sends dangerous UV rays through windows in your home, business, and car. Besides fading furniture and flooring, those rays make your air conditioner work harder. All Pro Window Tinting products meet and exceed Energy Star performance, which means significantly lower energy costs.

Residential - In houses throughout north Fulton County, residents call All Pro to make their stunning homes more beautiful. Whether its an issue with heat, glare, fade, or comfort, All Pro can help, using performance-driven Hper Optik products.

Business - All Pro offers a variety of solar control films, safety and security films, and decorative window films for businesses. Whether you want to reduce heating and cooling costs, protect inventory, or give your building a new look, All Pro can install the best window film for your needs.

Automotive - If youre dealing with unbearable heat and glare as well as interior fading, All Pro can change all that with its complete line of automotive window films. Window films will make your vehicle cooler, more comfortable, and more appealing. All Pro installs automotive film in its Canton location.


Expert Installation

When its time to install window tinting, the All Pro installation team arrives with all window tinting pre-cut to make installation as quick as possible. Courteous installers are careful to keep the work area clean and protected.
Before starting, the installers remove any blinds and grids and put down drop cloths. They clean the windows, install the film, squeegee out the moisture, and clean the window again. Depending on how big the job is, installation can take anywhere from an hour to all day.

Were committed to quality over quantity. Our installation techniques are second to none, said DeLuca. Our install techniques are better than others because we take the time to install the film properly the first time.

The All Pro team installs window film with great attention to technique and detail. If window film is installed incorrectly, the eventual result is bubbles, peels, or poor performance. All Pro is so confident in its techniques that it guarantees its installation with a lifetime warranty.
Exceptional Products

While installation techniques are important, equally important is the window tinting product. All Pro Window Tinting installs high-end window film, including Hper Optik.

Hper Optik window film reduces energy consumption while blocking 99.9 percent of the suns UV rays. The Hper Optik product lines also help to reduce interior fading, reduce glare, and block IR rays. This high-quality product keeps homes, businesses, and automobiles comfortable during all seasons.

Typically, the products will pay for themselves in energy savings within the first one to two years, said DeLuca. Our products are designed to be lighter. Darker films are not necessarily the best. People want all the natural light but dont want any of the heat, and thats where our films are above and beyond other films.

Satisfied Customers

Excellent customer service and expertise! Chris provided an estimate on high windows in my family room. He was prompt, courteous, and the price for ceramic film matched the two other estimates I got from other companies using a lower quality film. He answered all my questions enthusiastically, said Sally Lovett on Google reviews.

The installation experience was just as flawless. He arrived five minutes early, brought a weird ladder that did not require leaning on the walls, was careful of our furniture, fast, cleaned up, and explained the process for curing and the warranty. Great job!

Best window tinters in Georgia, period! Chris educated me on all the different tinting options, and we found the best solution for my vehicle. Super-fast service, and the quality of work and attention to detail was amazing, said Joe on Google reviews. Thanks for everything, Chris, and wish you and your team the best!

Quick service, great results, and friendly people. The owner has exceptional experience with window tinting, and you wont be disappointed. Very professional, said Annette Werner on Google reviews.

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

Local Law Firm Offers Quality, Individual Approach

By Cyndi Braun

Divorce, criminal charges, custody issues, whatever the legal concern, Cherokee County residents can call upon top-notch attorneys at The Burns Law Group.

Located on East Main Street in Canton, The Burns Law Group is a full-service law firm. With three attorneys, five paralegals, and an office manager, they are an experienced staff available to handle complex cases and legal matters around the clock.

Established by J. Daran Burns in 1993, the firm focuses on both domestic and criminal law.

Experienced Local Firm

Most people have little to no experience with the legal system and find it intimidating, as they dont know what to expect. As a seasoned law firm, The Burns Law Group is familiar with the local courts, prosecutors, and judges. They know how to use the system to get the best results for their clients.

When you have a case, you want to have a lawyer who is local, knows the court, has experience with the judges, and has a solid history and reputation here. We provide all of that to our clients, said Burns. There are many lawyers in our town, and we try to set our firm apart by providing our clients with a capable office staff that is available for a higher level of client contact, regardless of our trial schedule. Clients can always reach someone in our office who understands their case and can discuss details and information on the progress of the case. When the lawyers are in court, the clients can rest easier knowing their matter can still be advanced by the firm, and they can still communicate with us.

The firm offers a free, thirty-minute consultation by phone or in person. This enables potential clients to discuss the basics of their case and determine if theyd like to retain the services of the firm.

Domestic and Criminal Law

In domestic cases, emotions tend to run high. Having an attorney who knows when to be aggressive and when to be amicable is important. Some lawyers believe that every case requires them to be combative for their clients, but Burns disagrees.

Each case is different, and the lawyer needs to have the experience and knowledge to determine what approach is in the clients best interest. Sometimes, the client needs an aggressive attorney who will ensure that their rights are protected; however, most cases should begin with the goal of an amicable settlement, particularly when the parties have minor children, said Burns. Settling a domestic case in the conference room, as opposed to the courtroom, saves the client time, money, and the emotional toll a domestic case can cause. The lawyers at The Burns Law Group take the time to understand the issues involved in each case and develop a unique case strategy to give clients the best possible outcome.

The firm also handles criminal defense cases including everything from traffic tickets to murder trials. To begin building a defense, Burns encourages clients to seek legal help right away.
When someone is facing a criminal charge, they and their families may feel helpless or devastated. They need to hire an attorney quickly, making the right choice on who they hire, said Burns. The attorneys and staff in our office know how to navigate this system and know how to resolve criminal cases. Like other types of cases, knowing when to be aggressive and knowing when to push for a settlement is one of the most important parts of the case. Also, knowing that your lawyer has successfully tried the most complicated and serious cases provides a sense of security that you are in the right hands at The Burns Law Group.

Individual Approach

The firms attorneys believe in building relationships with clients based on trust and compassion and are committed to an individual approach tailored to each clients specific legal needs. Because of this, The Burns Law Group has earned a reputation as honest, skilled, and accomplished.
A lot of attorneys have a standard protocol on how they handle different types of cases. We believe that every case is unique and different because the facts, the people, and their life experiences are all unique and different, proclaimed Burns. I always remember that todays case is the most important thing in that clients life. And its out of their control. They are coming to us, and saying, Heres my life; heres my issue. They are putting it into our hands.

In addition to Burns, the firm has senior attorneys: Jennifer L. Davis who heads the
domestic team along with associate attorney Alex D. Morris; and Senior Attorney
Susan M. Zereini who heads the criminal law team.

Burns Law Group

181 Main Street
Canton, GA 30114
770-956-1400
BurnsLawGroup.com

Exclusively Outside the Perimeter

Upon entering Jyl Craven Hair Design, you will notice a clean, modern atmosphere; a vast line of professional products; and fashionable, refined stylists who are diligently going about making their guests look amazing. Since 1999, the salon has provided an experience that most would expect to only receive inside the perimeter. As a member of Intercoiffure North America Canada, guests who visit Jyl Craven Hair Design can be confident they will receive the best in quality and professional expertise.

Jyl Craven Hair Design serves guests of all ages. Designing hairstyles that accentuate your personality, benefit your lifestyle, and compliment your natural features is something the professionals at the salon do every day.
There are many places for people to get haircuts and hair color services. We want to be the salon that creates an experience that transcends the idea of receiving something that seems so predictable, said Owner Jason Craven.

Color Services

If you want to cover your grays or desire something more unique, like balayage, ombre, or highlighting, Jyl Craven hairdressers have the training and tools to make your dream a reality.

Before getting started, the hairdresser meets with each guest for a color consultation. While the guest reviews color books with hair samples that show all the nuances of color shades, the hairdresser will assess details like hair texture, strand length, and density. Once the perfect hair color is chosen, the salon uses a technology provided by SureTint to help determine the exact color formulation based on the guests individual hair features. This app also guarantees that color services can easily be duplicated with each returning visit.

Fine & Thinning Hair Solutions

Since 2012, the salon has offered the Evolve Volumizer. The Evolve Volumizer is a nonsurgical, integrated hair replacement system for women experiencing up to 50% hair loss on the crown or top of their head. This hair system addresses all the needs and desires that a woman has for fuller, thicker, denser hair. It produces immediate results and requires no glue, no adhesives, and no chemicals.

Many women take pride in their hair, and it can be a strong source of self-confidence for them. As strands fall out, so does their sense of security about themselves, said Jyl Craven.

A ladys hair plays a huge role in self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-image. Her hair often defines who she is. The Evolve Volumizer doesnt change who you are; it changes how you feel about you.

Mens Hair Care

Gone are the days when only women went to a hair salon. Today, more and more men seek out experienced hairdressers who provide individualized attention and custom styles. From soft parts to hard parts and fades to undercuts, Jyl Craven hairdressers are continually creating specialized styles for men. The full line of Baxter of California grooming products is available to help men support their styling and grooming needs.

Hair Care Products

Have you ever left a hair salon looking beautiful and then failed to recreate that style in your home? That should never happen. Jyl Craven hairdressers will take the time to show you how to maintain your new style and how to take care of your hair. Part of that care means using the same salon hair-care products and appliances in your home.

Summer Smoothing Treatments

For some people, summertime means summer frizz. No matter what hair-care product they put on their tresses, once the humidity hits, the frizz starts. If youre one of these lucky people, keratin smoothing treatments may solve your problem. Jyl Craven offers three options:

Express Blow-Out Reduces frizz and curl on a more temporary basis. This service may last up to six weeks.

Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment Reduces frizz and curl while repairing damage and blocking the frizzing effects of humidity. This service may last up to five months.

Personalized Blowout Great for frizz control, while improving manageability and giving more shine.
This service can last up to three months.

Apprenticeship Program

Are you interested in a career in the beauty industry? If you love making people look and feel beautiful, the Jyl Craven Hair Design Apprentice Program may be the right place to start. Participating in an apprenticeship program enables future hairdressers to get real-world, on-the-job training. Experienced trainers work with apprentices to teach hair cutting, coloring, and styling. For more information, inquiries can be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Inspiration

Check the salons Instagram and Facebook pages for the latest haircuts and styles created by Jyl Cravens talented hairdressers.

Jyl Craven Hair Design

7970 Knox Bridge Highway, Canton, GA 30114
JylCraven.com
Facebook.com/jylcravenhaircolourstudio
Instagram.com/jylcravenhair/
770-345-9411

Salon Hours
Sunday - Closed
Monday - 11:00am-8:00pm
Tuesday - 9:00am-9:00pm
Wednesday - 9:00am-9:00pm
Thursday - 9:00am-9:00pm
Friday - 9:00am-7:00pm
Saturday - 6:00am-5:00pm

Actor and Director

By John Midkiff

Growing up in New York City, Andrew Berardi was always fascinated with museums. He loved to explore the collections and dreamed of one day going to work in one. When Andrew was eleven, his father, an airport customs official, accepted a new position at an airport in Georgia. Through high school, Andrew enjoyed school but was never interested in theatre. However, he did maintain his love for museums and the art and collections showcased within them.

It wasnt until after high school that Andrew fell into the theatre. A few friends were acting in a show, and they invited him to come watch. When he noticed a flyer for upcoming auditions for A Christmas Carol, he initially laughed it off. But his friends convinced him to give it a try.

I was terrible. I dont know why I did it, but it worked out. The director ended up giving me the part of the undertaker because I was so stiff, Andrew said regarding his first audition. That would be Andrews first role of many.

In college, Andrew decided to major in the sciences because despite his passion for museums, he felt it would be easier to find a career after graduation. While pursuing his degree, Andrew became unhappy with the way things were going. He was successful, but his heart just wasnt in it. He decided to change his major to theatre and performance study and never looked back.

Throughout his acting and directing career, Andrew has been a part of nearly 35 productions. When asked which was his favorite, he couldnt choose. He did admit that he was particularly proud of Urinetown the Musical, which he both acted in and directed. Urinetown was Andrews first Broadway production as a director, and he was subsequently nominated for an award for the show. Andrew also spoke highly of Seussical the Musical, a production that he acted in twice, saying that the themes and the shows important message make it one of his favorites.

With his level of experience and success, Andrew could be working for some of the larger theatre groups. However, he says that he prefers working with nonprofit organizations. In fact, nearly all of Andrews work has been for nonprofits.

Currently, Andrew works for Kennesaw State Universitys theatre department. His advice for anyone interested in the arts is to remember that the path is very seldom straightforward, you have to be willing to take whatever turn is offered to you, and stay focused on your goal to succeed.

John Midkiff is a student in the MFA creative writing program at Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt College Circle, Waleska. 770-720-5582. Reinhardt.edu/Graduate/MFA-CW/

Here's How Parents Can Help their Child

By Donna Anello

The new school year begins next month. Class schedules, first tests, and projects are on the horizon; new friendships will be forged; separation anxiety tears will be a hurdle for some; and long carpool lines will mean leaving the house earlier to ensure you make it to work on time.

Many will make a smooth transition from the carefree days of summer. Many children and families will transition from summer break to the new school year with feelings of excitement and anticipation of new accomplishments. Lots of children will prepare to achieve long-term goals, as they keep and make friends to at least have someone to eat lunch with.

This is the natural expectation for most children as they settle in to the new school year. Goals of academic, athletic, and social success are embraced and even welcomed, as parents watch their children grow and thrive. However, a smaller percentage of children ages 3-17 who have learning disabilities or developmental delays will experience the beginning of a new school year quite differently.

Imagine the various aspects of what goes into a child starting a new school year the many purchases, the conversations, the documentation that needs to be filled out, doctor visits for physicals or vaccinations, school tours, parents night, curriculum night, and so much more. Now, imagine having a child with autism, ADHD, Aspergers, or sensory processing concerns with academically or socially challenging behaviors that make it difficult for him/her to learn, socialize, make friends, and/or participate in sports with his/her peers. If that describes your child, how do you embrace the first months of a new school year with the same verve as parents of children who do not experience these issues? Here are a few suggestions to successfully get past the rough patches during the upcoming school year:

-School-age children are never too old to be hugged. Tell them that you are proud of them and that you love them.

-When possible, schedule appointments (doctor, therapy, dentist, etc.) over the summer or over a school break. This alleviates the stress of trying to go to a doctor appointment during the school day, and it gives parents an opportunity to discuss any concerns for the upcoming year with their childs practitioner. Consistency in the daily school schedule is important to children with a learning disability.

-If your child is experiencing academic or social challenges, discuss these concerns with his/her teacher(s). The wait and see approach will not yield good results. Semester grades tally quickly, and it is difficult to raise grades when a student falls behind.

-When communicating with teachers, cite specific examples regarding any concerns. Be open about your childs learning challenges, his/her IEP (Individualized Education Program) details, and successful strategies used to teach your child in the past, (e.g. sitting in the front of the classroom). Be sure to provide contact information as well as the best time to reach you.

-Provide a verbal rundown or visual aid of how the school day will unfold during your morning routine, especially if there will be a deviation from the norm. Always conclude with a positive and reassuring statement such as, Youre going to have a great day today! I want to hear all about it later. Youve got this.

-Remind your child to practice strategies and techniques their tutors or therapist(s) have taught them when faced with stressful situations or anxiety-inducing scenarios. Deep breathing and counting works well in the absence of specific techniques.

-Talk to your child, your childs teacher(s), your childs doctor(s), and his or her therapist(s) on a regular basis. Dont avoid addressing your concerns. These professionals have been trained to help you help your child, and they welcome your interest in creating the most favorable school experience for him/her. Make a list of your concerns, and stick to the list when talking to these professionals. Working together as a team is beneficial for your child.

-Seek help through parent groups, support groups, or resource websites when you need advice, support, or guidance. Not only might you receive help, but you may also be able to offer support for another parent.

Addressing difficult situations with your child can be daunting. You are your childs best advocate and biggest fan. Try incorporating these suggestions into your existing routine, and expect the best possible outcome.


Donna Anello, CEO and founder of The Ollena Center, LLC, is an education consultant, public speaker, and author.

By Farris Yawn

When Atlanta Private Investigator Nick Price is hired by Julia Garrett to find her missing husband, he soon finds himself in the middle of a deadly conspiracy. It will take all his skills and experience to unravel the mystery before criminals put a permanent end to his investigation.

I saw no movement in the shadows. If someone were going to come after me, this would be the perfect time. Catch me going to my car in a dark alley, put a bullet in the back of my head, and then walk out to a waiting car on the adjacent street. I took my 9mm out of its holster and pumped a round into the chamber. Then, I turned into the alley and took a few steps. Then, I heard the shot and saw the muzzle flash simultaneously (excerpt from Absolute Justice).

Absolute Justice will keep you guessing until the end. The Atlanta settings put a fresh spin on the hard-boiled detective genre, giving us characters that are at once familiar and new. Nick Price is an old-school detective who follows the clues wherever they take him until he gets justice for his client.

Larry Pitts, a retired journalist with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, has populated this story with interesting characters and created a plot that keeps you absorbed until the last page. Absolute Justice is not a new release, but it is deserving of a new audience. If you enjoy a good detective story, this book is for you.

By Lyle Harp

Cherokee County residents are protected by an excellent fire service. The hard-working men and women of Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services respond to tens of thousands of fire, physical danger, and emergency medical situations every year. Within this department, there are several groups of people that respond to special situations and emergencies. Whether it is a hazardous material spill, a lost person, or a rescue from a tower, a cliff, or under water, the members of the Cherokee County Fire Special Operations teams are ready to respond. These teams, led by Special Operations Chief Darrell Mitchell, have the tools and skills to safely respond to the most hazardous and dangerous situations. One group within Special Operations is the Cherokee County Public Safety Dive Team.

Training is critical to the success and safety of the Dive Team.

The Dive Team responds to any emergency on the water or underwater. This includes incidents on Lake Allatoona as well as other lakes, ponds, and smaller bodies of water in Cherokee County. The Team is called out to recover evidence, vehicles, and victims of drowning. Some calls can be as simple as hooking a chain to a submerged vehicle, so a local towing service can pull it out of the water. Other calls can involve complex underwater search operations over multiple days.

Search operations may work from shore or dock, or they may work from one of the departments three boats. Many members of the Fire Department are trained to provide support to divers, particularly during boat-based operations. Most search operations are conducted in dark water where there is no visibility. Searching is done by feel, and divers are connected to a tender or guide on the surface via a rope. The tender is in communication with the diver, and the tender is responsible for directing the search operation. In this way, after a search is completed, the Team will have successfully found the object, or they can confidently state that the object is not within the search area.

The Team utilizes several pieces of specialized equipment beyond what is used in recreational Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) diving. Instead of wetsuits, divers wear drysuits to stay warm and dry and to protect themselves from contaminants in the water. Full face masks with built-in communication equipment enable divers to stay in contact with fellow divers as well as with Team members on shore. And finally, because water can immediately turn deadly in an emergency, divers carry two tanks of air one to use and another completely redundant system for emergencies only. Other pieces of recreational SCUBA equipment such as underwater flashlights and compasses are rarely useful for the Team due to the dark and murky conditions of Cherokees lakes and ponds.

Training is critical to the success and safety of the Dive Team. All active divers must obtain a Public Safety Diver certification from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Emergency Response Diving International (ERDI), or another nationally recognized SCUBA training organization. In Cherokee County, this specialized training is delivered in-house by a PADI-certified instructor. The Team trains once every two weeks year-round. Only through regular training can Team members develop new skills, maintain an appropriate comfort level with the equipment and the dive environment, and ensure consistent competency when handling any routine situation or emergency that may arise. Failure to train is the leading cause of dive accidents across the industry, and for that reason, regular training is mandatory for Team members.

Membership on the Dive Team is entirely voluntary. The Team consists of career firefighters as well as non-firefighting members of the community. Anyone living in the area who holds an Advanced Open Water SCUBA certification and can pass a background check and medical exam is eligible to apply for membership on the Team. All required equipment and advanced training is provided by the department. For more information about the Team or becoming a member, contact Special Operations Chief Mitchell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The men and women of Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services are dedicated to serving and protecting the citizens of Cherokee County. The Special Operations Dive Team is one of many examples of this commitment across the department.

Lyle Harp is the CCFES Dive Team Coordinator and a PADI PSD Instructor.

By Annell Gerson

Best Beach Ever
Wendy Wax

Dreams of Falling
Karen White

High Tide Club
Mary Kay Andrews

Check out these Atlanta authors fresh crop of hot summer titles no beach bag should be without:

The High Tide Club is Mary Kay Andrews at her best. A bit of romance, an eccentric 99-nine-year-old heiress who owns a private island, shady real-estate deals, secrets spanning decades, a sisterhood of friends, and a long-unsolved murder. In 1912, Josephine Warrick Bettendorfs father and two cousins bought Talisa, a 12,000-acre barrier island off the coast of Georgia. Since 1978, when the cousins sold their share to the State of Georgia for a wildlife refuge, the State has relentlessly hounded Josephine to buy the remaining acreage. With terminal cancer marking off her days, Josephine refuses to die before protecting the future of the island and doing right by her long-ago friends.

Wendy Waxs witty, smart Ten Beach Road series continues with her new release, Best Beach Ever. Maddie, Nikki, and Avery first meet as Ponzi scheme victims; the only thing left of their portfolio is a shared interest in a run-down historic beachfront property called Bella Flora. Since that first renovation, readers have fallen in love with this trio of strong, resourceful, down-to-earth women who have forged an enviable friendship. Life offers few easy answers, short-cuts, or fairy tale endings, but these resilient women remind us that friendship, remembering to acknowledge all the one good things in our lives, and time spent appreciating the majesty of a beautiful sunset go a long way to navigate lifes tides.

With her usual riveting plot, heart-grabbing characters, and exact sense of place, Karen White weaves past and present in a seamless storyline in her newest novel Dreams of Falling. Though Ceecee, Margaret, and Bitty come from very different Southern backgrounds, they might as well be sisters. Its 1950, and to celebrate high school graduation, the three hit the road for a weekend that will change their lives forever. Fifty years later, Margarets granddaughter, Larkin Lanier, is called home because her mother is missing. The note she leaves behind begins a revelation of secrets that upend everything Larkin has ever known about her family.

By Susan Hale

Recent tragedies such as those in Parkland, FL and Santa Fe, TX have Fulton County parents understandably concerned about school safety. With the new academic year drawing near, now is the time to become familiar with the security measures that already keep children safe in school, plus learn about new initiatives coming this fall.

Experts agree that effective emergency management and crisis response training are critical elements in school safety. To be proactive, Fulton County School District trains school staff frequently in various scenarios, including what to do in an active shooter situation, and gives instruction in AED (automated external defibrillator) use, CPR, and first aid. Additionally, schools all have safety plans that are reviewed annually and reported to the State of Georgia/Georgia Emergency Management Agency. Evacuation, shelter-in-place, and lockdown drills are required. Evacuation drills are required monthly along with other drills that are required at the start of each semester.

A well-trained and visible police force also contributes to safety. With 62 sworn officers, Fulton County Schools has one of the largest school police departments in Georgia. School police officers are not only certified in law enforcement, but they also have specialized training in how to work with children and young adults. The Fulton County School Board recently added six school police officer positions to supplement the force, and 34 non-sworn personnel (campus security associates) currently assist schools in their safety efforts.

Fulton County Schools is fortunate to receive special funding through the one-penny sales tax for education called SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax). Using these funds, schools have entry control systems that restrict access to outsiders until they are verified as approved visitors. In north Fulton, three of the older high school models Chattahoochee, North Springs, and Roswell received front entrance renovations to create a more controlled entry point that increases visibility of those entering or leaving the building.

Through the most current SPLOST program, each schools surveillance system is being upgraded. High definition cameras allow safety teams to monitor activities with laser-sharp accuracy. In north Fulton, the District has partnered with the 911 call centers in Fulton County Government, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs, so that in emergencies, they have direct access to view schools cameras. Discussions are under way to add this to the City of Alpharetta.

Courtesy of the SPLOST program, the school police fleet includes more than sixty vehicles, nineteen of which are new and now hitting the streets. These vehicles provide greater visibility of school police officers as well as increase their ability to patrol schools and their capability for emergency response.

But as critical as it is to secure a schools physical environment, access to mental and emotional resources is equally important. Social-emotional learning programs aid in students development as well as personal safety and good decision-making.

Fulton County Schools counselors, social workers, psychologists, and behavior specialists are uniquely trained to help students who may be experiencing mental health, social, or behavioral issues. In addition, the school system has a crisis counseling team that is deployed when schools experience a student or staff member death.

Adding a community element to its prevention and intervention strategies, Fulton County Schools developed a protocol in 2013 to allow mental health partners, such as North Fultons Summit Counseling Center, to provide services through schools. Should their parents request it, students can access providers on campus. The Fulton County Board of Commissioners also is collaborating with the District through its Text A Tip program. Three north Fulton high schools Cambridge, Milton, and Roswell were tapped for a pilot where students can connect anonymously with a licensed mental health professional via a mobile app.

Identification and awareness is another key strategy for student support. Mental health first aid training has been provided to hundreds of District staff and community members. This free training was made available last spring and this summer to adults who work with children and youth. Anxiety, depression, substance use, psychotic disorders, behavior disorders, and eating disorders were the topics that were covered.

Each of these initiatives provides a proactive way to help Fulton County youth, but systems are also in place for students who are suspected to be at risk for self-harm or harm to others. A crisis response protocol is used to immediately provide mental health resources to students and their families. Re-entry meetings are held with school leaders and care partners once a student is preparing to return to school, so they can successfully transition back into the classroom.

Safety is a community-wide issue, and it takes the partnership of all involved to keep schools safe. For more information about these safety measures and others, visit the Safety and Security webpage on the Fulton County Schools website at FultonSchools.org/safety. On that page, District safety information and downloadable resources are available to families.

Susan Hale is a communications manager for Fulton County Schools. She specializes in SPLOST-funded projects, including new school construction, renovations, technology innovations, and safety improvements.

By Jim Cheatham

As of July 1, the Hands-Free Georgia Act is now in effect.
Also known as House Bill 673, Governor Nathan Deal signed the Bill into law back in May, adding Georgia to the list of states banning the use of handheld cell phones and other devices while driving.

The law takes the current statute prohibiting texting and driving even further and prohibits even having your phone in your hand.

There are some exceptions, and the most applicable is that you still can pick up your phone to report an emergency. There is not a grace period with the Hands-Free Georgia Act. A jurisdiction may give warnings, but the law is fully enforceable as of July 1, 2018.

The law includes penalties, and though the fines may not seem high, this law comes with points on your license.

You would think that most of this would have been considered common sense. However, you do not have to drive around town long to witness a distracted driver. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration data for 2014 shows over 400,000 people were injured and over 3,000 people perished in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted driving. This number could be very low, as it only represents when distracted driving was able to be identified as attributing to a crash.

Dont do it. Drivers on their phones do not even realize they are driving badly. Youve seen it that car that cant seem to stay in their lane, the one still sitting at the traffic light well after the light turns green, the car in your rearview mirror that is approaching fast and slams on the brakes at the last second (you hope). Most of these drivers do not realize they were doing this until after the fact, and by then, it could be too late. A serious injury accident or fatality is completely unacceptable, but even a fender-bender costs time and money for everyone involved. It can wait. Put your device down, and focus on the road. Be safe Alpharetta.

Here are some key points you need to know to stay safe:

-You must use a speakerphone, earpiece, or wireless headphone, or the phone must be connected to the vehicle or an electronic watch.
-Earphones or headsets can only be worn for communication, not to listen to music.
-Text communication can only be done voice-based, which means that your voice is converted to text automatically, no reading or typing text-based communication.
-You cannot watch videos.
-You cannot record videos.
-Your social media posts will have to wait until you are parked.
-STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT IS NOT PARKED!

Penalties and Fines

-First conviction = $50 and one point on a license
-Second conviction = $100 and two points on a license
-Third and subsequent convictions = $150 and three points on a license

For information on the Georgia campaign against distracted driving, visit HeadsUpGeorgia.com.

You can read and learn more about the full law by visiting
GaHighwaySafety.org/highway-safety/hands-free-law/.

#HandsFreeGeorgia