My Forsyth Magazine

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MY FORSYTH

TABLE of CONTENTS

VOLUME IX • ISSUE 4

55

Home & Life

17

11 FAMILY SUPPORT: THE

GRILLAERTS WAY

12 THE BUYER MINDSET

14 ACCENT WALLS ARE BACK,

AND BETTER THAN EVER

16 GET YOUR HOME HOST

READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

20 SIX STEPS TO WEATHERING

A RECESSION

22 MEET SAM JUERGENS

23 CUMMING YOUTH EARNS

EAGLE SCOUT RANK

30 NAVIGATING THE

HOLIDAYS: TIPS FOR

BLENDED FAMILIES

Forsyth Foodie

28 COMMUNITY CUP

“DON’T MISS

A THING”

WE’RE MOBILE...

myforsythmag.com

34

COVER STORY

34

CLEAVER MEDICAL

GROUP OF FORSYTH:

A TIME FOR THANKS

AND APPRECIATION

Features

17

CLASSIC CHARM IN

SUBURBAN FORSYTH

24

A STRONG SIP OF

INSPIRATION

32

LEGACY FOR TOMORROW

Health & Wellness

33 SKIN CANCER: FACT VS FICTION

36 HIGH HOPES FOR HEART

FAILURE HELP

38 OVARIAN CYSTS & PELVIC PAIN

40 ARE YOUR HORMONES TO

BLAME?

42 HEALTH CARE IN THE

UNITED STATES

44 OUR MOST VALUABLE

RESOURCE: TIME

Education

48 THREE WAYS TO HELP

STUDENTS DEAL WITH STRESS

51 STATE OF THE SCHOOLS

AND COUNTY

53 LEADERSHIP PROFILE:

MITCH YOUNG

55 THE FIRST 15 CHALLENGE

Faith

55 THE FIRST 15 CHALLENGE

In Every Issue

10 FORSYTH COUNTY NEWS

46 BURGESS BLOG

58 THE COUNTRY PREACHER

CONTRIBUTORS

VOLUME IX • ISSUE 4

MY FORSYTH

PUBLISHER

Market Complete LLC

Abigail Blum is an

avid photographer

and storyteller. She

may be reached at

photosxabigail@gmail.

com. @abigailblum

#photosxabigail

Larry Brown is a retired

journalist. Larry is a member

of the Cumming-Forsyth

Optimist Club and a mentor

with Mentor Me North

Georgia. A community

volunteer and sought-out

writer, he may be reached at

browntrust@bellsouth.net.

Tom Burgess is the owner

and operator of Christian

Brothers Automotive in

Cumming. Tom retired from

the United States Air Force

in 2009, after serving his

country for over 22 years.

He may be reached at

Tom.Burgess@cbauto.net.

julie@marketcomplete.com

678.614.8583

SPECIAL REPORTS/VIDEO

Rachel Bellett

703.888.6328

Michelle Hall

904.386.0417

WEB CONTENT STRATEGIST

Matt Coutu

Ava Clavijo is a student

at Forsyth Central. She

may be reached at

AvaClavijo@gmail.com.

Rebecca Dumas is

the owner and color

consultant at

Gregory’s Paint & Flooring.

She may be reached at

rebecca@

gregoryspaintandflooring.com.

Pam Evans is an

Associate Broker with

Century 21 Results. She

may be reached at

678-778-6551.

matt@marketcomplete.com

STAFF WRITER

Katielee Kaner

katielee.myforsyth@gmail.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Samantha Angeli

samantha.angeli74@gmail.com

770.310.4486

Jacqueline Thompson

Graves is a freelance

media developer, writer,

and the author of the book

review blog The Book

Buffet. She may be reached

at thegraves@yahoo.com.

Rev. David Hill is a

Cumming resident and

frequent guest preacher

at Antioch Baptist Church.

He may be reached

at davidkhillhpm@

comcast.net.

Amy Lyle lives in Forsyth

with her husband, four

teenagers and a large dog.

Her first book, The Amy

Binegar-Kimmes-Lyle Book

of Failures is a top eBook on

Amazon.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Adam Pendleton

678.208.7077 • www.adampendleton.com

PRINTING AND MAILING SERVICES

Power Marketing & Printing

678.990.3618 • smccaffrey@powermp

Maria I. Morgan is an

inspirational writer and

speaker. She is the awardwinning

author of Louie’s BIG

day! She may be reached at

maria@mariaimorgan.com.

Narendra Singh, MD,

FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA is the

Director of Clinical Research,

Atlanta Heart Specialists LLC,

Atlanta, GA.


DrSingh@ahsmed.com or

www.heartdrsingh.com.

Mira Sivan is a family

practice optometrist with an

emphasis on ocular disease,

contact lenses fitting and

pediatrics. She may be

reached at 678-648-5185.

The mission of My Forsyth magazine, a publication of

Market Complete LLC, is to provide readers with stories and

information about their communities and its people. 22,000

copies of your community magazine are distributed via

direct mail and throughout local businesses as part of our

rack distribution. We welcome your comments, stories and

advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists, and submissions

are not necessarily those of the MarketComplete LLC. The

Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable

organizations mentioned. My Forsyth is not responsible

for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be

reproduced or transmitted without written permission from the

Publisher. All rights reserved. ©Copyright 2019

Rachael Walkup

is the owner of

CummingLocal.com, wife,

mom and blogger.

She may be reached at

info@cumminglocal.com.

My Forsyth • www.myforsythmag.com

5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135

Cumming GA 30040

(p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511

A Note From the

PUBLISHER

My Wish

WORLD PEACE. THAT IS ALL.

Yes, it’s the usual answer given by many beauty pageant

contestants throughout the world over the years. Who

wouldn’t want world peace? It’s quite an endeavor and efforts

to get there can certainly start close to home.

It is likely that most of us wish for healthier lives, stronger

relationships, happiness everywhere, and a well-lived life for

everyone. That is a bond which connects us.

A recent health scare with a family member reminded me of

the simple task of wishing – and doing. To wish wellness, we

must live wellness. To wish stronger relationships, we must

dedicate ourselves to working on the relationships we value

most. And so on…

Worldwide celebrations are now held for numerous events we

used to believe were simply normal behavior. Like kindness.

That beautiful quality of being friendly, generous, and

considerate. Shouldn’t kindness be a daily act? I am certain it

is, but I guess we needed a reminder and so a day in which to

celebrate kindness is now on our calendars.

Empathy and compassion come to mind. Respect and

understanding. Peace. In our hearts and minds. In all we say and do.

A friend keeps a journal of her thoughts. In it are her daily

hopes and dreams, her insecurities and even her fears.

Another friend has retrieved into her own space. No one is

allowed in there… at least not yet.

As we gather with friends and loved ones, perhaps we can all

agree on one wish. Peace within ourselves. Peace we can

share with others in how we act, what we say and how we live.

Here’s to wishing well, for us all!

"The world's a stage and we are all actors playing

our roles." - William Shakespeare

JULIE BRENNAN

Publisher

julie@marketcomplete.com

N

EWS AROUND FORSYTH

Atlanta Hobby’s

New Home

After 17 years on the same street, Cliff Whitney and his crew moved to a new location. The owner of Atlanta Hobby

has always bucked the trends and done things differently. What started as a mail-order only operation, Atlanta Hobby was the very first

to open an electric only shop and did the drone thing before people even knew what a drone was.

A new location has afforded Whitney the opportunity to bring in new hobbies

for enthusiasts to see. The store’s new walk-in showroom allows customers to

see and touch all of the great products available at the same low price available

online. Whitney is expanding the hobby of planes, cars and trucks to youth and

their parents.

“Our new shop has big flat screens running how-tos and action videos in each

department. We will now have the largest selection of RC cars and trucks in the

state and our training room will no longer be just for corporate drone programs

(which are not going away) but we will be adding classes on how to solder, paint,

build planes cars and more,” Whitney explained.

AtlantaHobby.com 1220 Oak Industrial Lane Cumming, GA 30041

CanCare –

“A Survivor by Your Side”

“A Survivor by Your Side, speaks to the mission of

CanCare - walking alongside cancer patients during

their journey to provide hope and understanding.”

Reverend Neal Kuhlhorst, CanCare Atlanta president, explained

the purpose of the cancer support group. “CanCare is a community

of survivors who lift up and inspire cancer patients and caregivers

through personal support, empathy and hope, to ensure that no one

endures cancer alone,” he added.

CanCare is a national network of trained volunteers composed of

Kay Royal and Reverend Neal Kuhlhorst

cancer survivors, caregivers of survivors, and medical professionals.

They provide emotional support and cancer-related resources to

cancer patients and their caregivers. Survivors of more than 75 different types of cancer are the heartbeat of the organization, providing hope, friendship,

and hospital visitations. The Atlanta chapter of CanCare is based at Johns Creek Presbyterian Church, where Reverend Kuhlhorst is director of counseling

and associate pastor.

Neal said, "CanCare volunteers know first-hand what comes next after receiving a cancer diagnosis. The 'old normal' of life as usual comes apart at the seams.

Each person's journey is different; yet each person is called to create a 'new normal' where they progress from surviving toward thriving. Our CanCare volunteers

are 'hope on feet' for cancer patients and their families because they are symbols of hope and represent what thriving in your 'new normal' can become."

The Atlanta chapter has grown to 17 congregations with more than 100 volunteers. The chapter partners with Emory Hospital Johns Creek where CanCare

volunteers visit patients in the hospital and infusion center. Volunteers work in conjunction with the hospital medical staff to offer emotional support to

patients, their families, and their caregivers. Kay and Neal are among certified trainers of CanCare volunteers.

Anyone experiencing cancer can be matched with a CanCare volunteer through the CanCare website www.cancare.org, or call 888-461-0028.

Volunteers may also apply through the website. CanCare provides all services at no charge. For questions, contact Kay Royal, kayr@cancare.org.

VOLUME IX | ISSUE 4 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 9

F

FORSYTH

COUNTY

NEWS

Holiday Fire Prevention and Safety

Tips from the Forsyth County Fire

Department

TAKE A TRIP WITH SENIOR SERVICES

Did you know that Forsyth County Senior Services offers

exciting staff-escorted day trips and hiking trips to interesting

places around north Georgia? All day trips and hiking trips

are available to Senior Services members and non-members.

Don’t delay in registering as trips often sell out! Visit the Senior

Services page at forsythco.com or call (770) 781-2178 for

more information or to register.

The Forsyth County Fire Department wants you and your

family to be safe this holiday season!

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE SAFELY.

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating

equipment, like a furnace, fireplace, wood stove or portable space

heater.

• Remember to turn portable space heaters off when leaving the room

or going to bed.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from

flying into the room.

• Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or

heat vent. The heat can dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily

ignited by heat, flame or sparks.

• Never place wrapping paper in a fireplace. Wrapping paper in the

fireplace can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks

and embers that may result in a chimney fire.

• In an emergency, always call 911.

Looking For a Place to Drop

Off Recycling?

Forsyth County’s three convenience centers recycled 1,134 tons

of recyclables last year!

The centers are open from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and

accept a variety of recyclables and bagged household trash. There is no

minimum bag size, and the maximum bag size for household trash is 32

gallons. Recycling is free with a few exceptions and the quantity is unlimited.

Trash: $.50 per bag for recycling customers, $1.00 a bag for non-recycling

customers

Daily limit for trash: 5 bags ($2.00 per bag for bags exceeding the daily limit)

FIND A CENTER NEAR YOU:

Tolbert Convenience Center

(3251 Tolbert St., Cumming, GA 30040)

Old Atlanta Convenience Center

(3678 Old Atlanta Rd., Cumming, GA 30024)

Coal Mountain Convenience Center

(3560 Settingdown Rd., Cumming, GA 30028)

NEW FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT CLASS

GRADUATES, SEVERAL PERSONNEL PROMOTED

The Forsyth County Fire Department promoted six personnel,

swore in nine firefighters and graduated its newest recruit

class. Family, friends and Fire Department staff attended the

ceremony held at Mountain Lake Church.

The 25 recruits in the class

completed more than 640 hours

of certified fire training, followed

by 18 weeks of emergency

medical technician (EMT) training.

Each recruit completed a total of

720 hours of EMT classroom and

clinical instruction. All became

certified as nationally registered

EMT’s.

Congratulations to all!

10 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME IX | ISSUE 4

Optimists Recognize

Corporal Belafi

Corporal Jenny Belafi was presented a Sawnee-Cumming Optimist

Club appreciation plaque by the club’s Respect for Law committee

chair Judy Wernik, shown with Chief Deputy Grady Sanford.

The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club honored

Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department’s Corporal

Jenny Belafi at the club’s Respect for Law

program. Honoring law enforcement officials is one of a

variety of Optimist programs to bring out the best in youth

and communities. It is an Optimist Club tenant to inspire

respect for law enforcement among young people and to

educate them on the vital jobs of law enforcement men

and women.

Corporal Belafi was presented a plaque with the

inscription: For your outstanding contributions to the youth

of Forsyth County. She is a certified crisis negotiator, field

training officer, and public information officer. She does

neighborhood watches, women’s self-defense, and SALT.

She graduated from Forsyth Central High School and North

Georgia College with a degree in criminal justice. Previously

she worked for the Dawson County Sheriff ’s Office.

“Jenny is an important member of the Sheriff ’s Office

team,” commented Chief Deputy Grady Sanford following

the presentation. “Through our Community Relations Unit,

she leads the way in teaching our community how to stay

safe and how to protect themselves. All applaud her hard

work and dedication. No one is more deserving of this

award than Jenny.”

“The dedicated and brave men and women in the Sheriff ’s

Department are one of the reasons Forsyth County is such

a great community,” added club president Brenda Basey.

“We are grateful and proud to honor Corporal Belafi, and

representing everyone in Sheriff Freeman’s department.”

The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club meets the first and

third Thursday evenings of each month. For information

about Optimists, contact Brenda, bsbasey@comcast.net.

FAMILY SUPPORT:

THE GRILLAERTS WAY

One couple in the Forsyth County community is making a huge

difference in the lives of young people throughout North Georgia.

Cumming residents Michael and Joanie Grillaert exemplify what it means to

be a true champion for children. The Grillaerts have generously supported

the families served by Easterseals North Georgia for more than 20 years,

enabling hundreds of children who are living in poverty to participate in a

high-quality early learning program.

This program provides comprehensive

services that prepare children to meet

with success in school and beyond.

Michael, a retired partner at KPMG,

has been an active Easterseals volunteer,

Chairman of the Board of Directors

locally and served on several national

Easterseals committees.

“I’ve always been inspired by

the work of Easterseals North Georgia,

providing critical direct services to

children with disabilities and other

special needs in our community,” Michael

said. “I’m honored to have been a part of the organization’s growth over the

past 20 years and see firsthand the impact it makes in the lives of so many

families throughout North Georgia.”

Not only do the Grillaerts work behind the scenes to provide strong

leadership, but they are active

participants in Easterseals

North Georgia’s fundraisers

and events.

“One of our favorite annual

events is the Trick or Treat

Trot 5K and Family Festival in

October,” Joanie said. “We love

to dress up and help entertain

the children each year. It’s so

rewarding to see the families

we serve thriving, happy, and

active in their community.”

For more information or to get involved, please visit

eastersealsnorthgeorgia.org.


The Buyer Mindset

To Making a Smart Real Estate Purchase

By Pam Evans

When the day arrives that you are ready to make a first-time purchase, or are ready to upsize, being in the right mindset

will prove beneficial and most likely save you time and angst. Here are my suggested steps of how to get there.

general floorplan of the house? Those are the

things you cannot change, so you’ll want to love

everything on that list.

If all of that is awesome, but you can’t stand

the kitchen cabinets, or the paint color, the back

deck or the carpet, that is probably ok as all of

those items can be addressed, even over time.

Nothing says you must fix everything the day you

move in. Perhaps live in the place for a while and

really get a feel for what changes make most sense

for your lifestyle.

ESTABLISH FINANCIAL PARAMETERS

The value in speaking with a good mortgage

lender is to establish a budget upfront. Based

on your debt-to-income ratio, what monthly

mortgage payment will you qualify for? If you are

wanting a townhome or community where yard

maintenance is handled for you, you will have an

additional monthly HOA expense as well, which

you want to have included in your budget.

Establishing a financial ceiling allows you to

set a house-hunting budget that uses logic, not

emotion. Your Realtor will need to understand

your budget when helping you select homes to

visit. Personally, my goal with each Client is to

come in under their budget. I’m not trying to

get folks to spend every dollar they qualify for.

I’d prefer they have some extra breathing room

each month.

Also, discuss with your lender what options

you may have – in the type of loan products

available or, for example, if you are looking

to upsize, can you qualify for your next home

without selling your current home first? That

may eliminate some stress of having your home

on the market while living there, in addition to

being able to make an offer on your next home,

contingency-free.

DETERMINE YOUR GEOGRAPHY

Basically, where do you ideally want to live? It

sounds pretty basic, but you’d be surprised at

how many people really don’t have this narrowed

down, and once they start looking at homes,

things get more confusing as the emotional

appeal kicks in, and a pretty home may lure

people outside of their ideal geographic location.

Select an area of town that you will enjoy living

in, has a reasonable commute, is in a desirable

location (in case you end up selling sooner than

you anticipate), and has good schools (even if you

don’t have kids).

FOCUS ON THE THINGS YOU CANNOT

CHANGE, FIRST

What I mean is – do you love the location, the

community, the neighborhood, the lot, the

VISUALIZE A HOME’S POTENTIAL

As I’ve mentioned in the past, Buyer’s don’t

always tend to have great visualization skills –

but try to – as you’ll most likely be able to save

money on your purchase. The homes that are

completely renovated and look like they belong

on an episode of HGTV tend to sell fastest and

for the highest price. Homes that need some

updating, wallpaper removal, or landscape care

tend to sit longer, and the Seller may be a bit

more negotiable.

Key of course will be to have the home

inspected. If the home is solid, and has decent

systems (heating & cooling, electrical, plumbing),

then you are most likely making a sound

purchase. The cosmetics are less important. A

solidly built home can be turned into a beauty.

RECOMMENDATION

My best advice is to seek the guidance of a

reputable Realtor. We work with excellent

Lenders, Inspectors, insurance folks and can

put you in touch with the right people and walk

through the entire process with you. We’ll help

you not only buy right, but buy smart. Now is

an excellent time to make a purchase, as interest

rates are attractively low. Locking in at a low

fixed rate interest rate will save you thousands

of dollars over the life of the loan. And instead

of paying rent money out the window, you’ll be

paying into your own asset and building your

long-term wealth.

Pam Evans is an Associate Broker with Century 21 Results, and can be reached at HelloPamEvans@gmail.com and at 678-778-6551.



Accent Walls Are Back and Better Than Ever!

After creating color schemes for over

20 years now, I have seen a lot. We used

to do accent walls in a bold color or a faux finish.

Some paint finishes, like sponging, rag rolling,

and marbleizing are things I must convince my

clients that some things are out of fashion. And

I will admit that when clients have wanted to do

an accent wall, I usually try to talk them out of it,

because I want them to get the most out of their

color plan for the long haul, and so many of my

clients are planning to sell in the next 3-5 years.

My goal is always to lead them to see the best way

to "appeal to the masses" which is to be as simple

and clean as possible.

By Rebecca Dumas

Thibaut Wallcovering

Benjamin Moore

But adding a bit of color with paint, pattern,

or texture with wallpaper can give them that

customization for their home, make them happy

and not have too much of a commitment. An

accent wall can be changed easily enough, but

the way we are doing them now, it will make a

subtle statement, and help be an asset for selling.

Another popular idea that can be done as an

accent wall are wood planks or a type of “Shiplap”

or Wainscoting. These are definite upgrades to

a home and might be that extra something that

can really make a home special and stand out.

These walls can be stained or painted an accent

color or the color of the trim.

Adding color, especially a dramatic

color like Iron Mountain, Baby Seal Black or

Kendall Charcoal can be a way to add drama

and paint is easy. Doing one wall, or a set of

built-ins, or two adjacent walls; these projects

can be small enough that an accomplished

DIYer can tackle. But if you need help, hiring

a wallpaper installer or professional contractor

to add the trim or paint finish may be a

good idea.

Whether you do it yourself or hire a

professional do the work for you, an accent

wall can be just the thing that is needed in that

otherwise empty, boring space.

Rebecca Dumas: Owner/Color Consultant

Gregory’s Paint & Flooring Johns Creek & Cumming

rebecca@gregoryspaintandflooring.com



Provide ease and tranquility

Help them get comfortable. Set your home’s temperature at the seasonal

average and be sure to eliminate any lingering pet smells or odors prior

to their arrival. De-clutter, dust and clean so your home is calm and

peaceful. And ensure their room is stocked with essentials (i.e. extra

sheets, blankets, a place for luggage, an empty drawer or closet space,

box of Kleenex, towel and washcloth, adequate lighting, small pull up

table, and extra set of clean sheets sprayed with lavender or linen spray).

Also ensure their bathroom is clean and well stocked with extra tissue,

room spray and towels, and add a night light for safe evening trips in

the dark.

Get Your Home

Host Ready

For The Holidays

Take a few extra steps

Make guests feel at home and special. Have some of their favorites

stocked like snacks, drinks, coffee or tea. Set out a few framed photos

of past fun times shared together so they can reminisce and enjoy them.

Queue up a playlist of their favorite music genres to enjoy over dinner.

By Lanada Chanel Duncan

If you’re hanging the mistletoe and rolling out the red carpet to

welcome overnight guests this holiday season, then you definitely want

to channel your inner Martha Stewart to ensure it will be a visit they

won’t forget.

Taking time to prep your home helps you create an unforgettable

experience, where visitors feel completely welcomed and comfortable

during their stay.

HERE ARE THREE MAIN IDEAS FOR GETTING

YOUR HOME HOST READY FOR THE

HOLIDAYS

Create a smooth arrival experience

Literally roll out that welcome mat. It’s a great way to greet guests to

your home and instantly make them feel welcomed. The same goes for

gestures like placing a welcome note with fruit basket in their sleeping

quarters for evening snacks; and a list of suggestions for local activities

during their stay and instructions for working your coffee maker,

locating extra toiletries or logging onto your WiFi.

Lanada Chanel is the Principal Stylist with b.e. decors, an

interior decorating, staging and procuring company. b.e.

decors styles sophisticated, peaceful living and work spaces

for busy professionals to enjoy.

Lanada Chanel Duncan, b.e. decors

678.951.9210

info@bedecors.com

www.bedecors.com


Serenity & Seclusion

IN THE HEART OF VICKERY

5827 LONG PARK ROAD | CUMMING, GEORGIA 30040

Continued on next page


Absolutely one of a

kind signature estate


5827 Long Park Road, Cumming, Georgia 30040

$1,990,000 MLS#:6625368

Classic Charm in Suburban Forsyth

Nestled in the calm suburban neighborhood of Vickery Village, which boasts

approximately 75 acres of community parks and greenspace sits an alluring

home, once owned by the area developer, Pam Sessions. Sessions’ accolades and

honors are many, including being heralded as the creative force behind new

urbanism. The home is currently the home of the Schoenberger Family. Jennifer

Schoenberger has masterfully decorated the home with an array of Frenchvintage

pieces coupled with home décor glamor with a bit of whimsical flair,

Jennifer is an interior designer with Elle and Vreeland Design House.

The home includes a saltwater pool with pool house, screen porch, golf putting

green, a 4-car garage, gourmet kitchen with two sub-zero refrigerators, an

oversized master suite on the main level, and much more. All surrounded by

breath-taking hardwoods and a Parterre garden, not easily seen from the road,

allowing for unequaled privacy.

Located within walking distance to the shops and restaurants at Vickery Village,

two gyms and to the Vickery Village amenities, including tennis courts, pool,

two lakes, walking paths, outdoor basketball court and two parks, this property

is for sale marketed exclusively by Robyn Sprague with PalmerHouse Properties.

Marketed exclusively by

Robyn Sprague

PalmerHouse Properties

Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

Senior Real Estate Specialist

For information call Robyn direct at 470-227-1277

RobynSells@gmail.com

www.5827LongParkRoad.com

PHP broker office: 404-876-4901

PalmerHouse Properties 2911 Piedmont Rd Atlanta,GA 30305. Information herein believed to be accurate but not warranted.

Equal Housing Opportunity. If your home is currently listed with a Broker this is not intended as solicitation.


How to Potentially Survive

and Thrive in a Recession

6 STEPS TO WEATHERING A RECESSION

By Kurt Arseneau, Investment Advisor Representative, Registered Financial Consultant

We often hear the call for a recession. I thought it

might be a good idea to give you six steps to weather

a recession.

Economic expansions never last forever. Eventually, they’ll be followed

by a recession. It’s inevitable and it’s a natural part of the economic cycle.

While we may never know when the next recession will hit or how long it’ll

last, being prepared and having a plan is important.

We also know that, no matter when they hit, recessions will stir up

anxiety and fear. Which in turn, trigger panic and rash decisions, which

could lead to big losses. So, resist the panic trap that come with recessions.

If you can keep a level head, and follow these six steps, you’ll be empowered

to weather any recession and any personal financial hardships you may face

outside of recessions.

1. Don’t Make Drastic Changes To Your Investments - People tend

to make bad investing decision when they get stressed. Don’t time the market

or take big risks. Make your plan with a professional’s help and then stick to it.

2. Expect Emotional Ups and Downs – When recessions hit, its

normal to get worried about your money, your work, and your loved ones.

But don’t let that worry take over and cause panic. People who let fear guide

their financial choices often end up getting the most hurt during recessions.

3. Take Care of Yourself and Your Loved Ones – Recessions can

bring layoffs and stress to yourself and your family and friends. Tough times

are when it’s important to fall back on your values, communicate, and take

care of the people who matter most.

4. Ignore the Entertainers – You know what gets ratings? Headlines

that scare people. And there’s no shortage of those during recessions. Don’t

listen to pundits who act like they know what’s going on but really don’t.

They aren’t experts, and scary headlines will must make you stress.

5. Stay Flexible – No one can tell exactly what a recession will

bring until it happens. Be prepared to cut back on your expenses. And

know where you can turn for financial backup just in case. If you have

a recession income plan, you can potentially avoid the financial hit of

liquidating assets during a downturn (We can help you create one if

you’d like).

6. Get Professional Advice – You don’t have to go it alone. The calm

opinion of a pro can be the antidote to the chaos and the anxiety that come

with recessions. We can help you steer clear of hasty choices so you can stay

focused on your long-term goals.

Recessions are scary and inevitable and you will get through them. A

lot of unknowns come with recessions. And that can make it easy to

get anxious and lose sight of the big picture. Remember, recessions

are normal. The truth is you can take action to weather the fallout and

with the right strategies, you can do more than simply survive. You will

have the tools to thrive during any recession. As a professional, I have

worked with clients through recessions, downturns, life events, and many

other periods of high stress. During those times, I learned that making

a plan in advance and sticking to it is one of the best things you can do

to keep yourself on track when tough times hit. Remember, you don’t

have to weather recessions along, we are here to offer support and be

your ally during these times. We share practical strategies and create an

environment for our clients to succeed. If you or anyone in your life is

worried about a recession, reach out to us. We are happy to chat with you

and share some more thoughts and advice. Until next time, stay well!

Investment Advisory Services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth Management, LLC(AEWM). AEWM and Arseneau Advisory Group are not affiliated companies.



adventure-drama TV series set on an island.

Later this year, you can watch me on Heroes

Among Us, a feature documentary filmed this

past spring in Alpharetta and Washington,

D.C.. The film explores the "Duality of Home"

for the American service member.

Forsyth County resident and

Award-Winning Filmmaker,

Sam Juergens

An interview by Amy Lyle

Q How did you get into filmmaking?

A I’ve always loved movies but didn’t start

filmmaking until my mid-20’s. I wrote my first

short film in a weekend, we shot it the next

weekend, and it screened at a local film festival

– I’ve had the itch ever since.

Q You're a screenwriter, director, and producer.

Do you prefer one role over the others?

A Writing.

Q Are you drawn to one genre as a filmmaker?

A I prefer dramas and comedies.

Q You had a great year last year, tell us about it.

A The Hardest Hit won Best Screenplay at the

2018 Catalina Film Festival. It is an unproduced

feature drama about a young lawyer who

persuades her client, a sexual assault victim, to

reject a large settlement and face her accuser in

court instead. The Interviewers is a micro-short

comedy about two argumentative interviewers

conducting a round of interviews for an open

position. It won Best Comedy at the Franklin

International Independent Film Festival.

Q In 2018 the top ten grossing movies

were remakes. Thoughts?

A From a studio standpoint, I get it. Recycle

+ Reboots = less risky. But at the end of the

day, quality shot, well-told original stories will

always survive in the box office and at home,

regardless of budget size. I think it will be

within 5 years that we’re going to see the first

film with a $500M budget, but small budget

indie movies will always have a market too.

Q Do you think Hollywood is good for Georgia?’

A Yes, absolutely, and I think Georgia’s great

for Hollywood.

Q What are your three, all-time favorite movies?

A Well, if I have to limit it down to three, in

no particular order Dumb & Dumber, Heat,

The French Connection.

Q What are you working on now?

A I’m currently on the development team

for the family-friendly Western feature Grace,

with Nancy Stafford (Matlock) attached to star

and direct. I’m also co-developing a 1-hour

Q How long is the project cycle?

A It varies, obviously, but for an indie short

film for example, for me, it might take about 9

months to a year from when I start writing the

script, through pre-production and production,

and until it's released (either online or film

festival).

Q How can people get involved in film?

A Atlanta is a great place to get involved

because there are both studio and indie projects

going on everywhere. SCAD students are always

looking for non-union actors for their projects.

Network by following and joining groups

on social media, search “Atlanta Film” or

“Atlanta Film Casting.” If you're interested

in writing, start reading the scripts available

online. Another way is to write and start

filming scenes or skits on your phone, with

friends and family. Many free movie making

apps are available. Create, create, create!

Q Where can people find out more about you?

A Personal Website: samueljuergens.com

Twitter: @samjuergens

IMDb: www.imdb.me/samjuergens

Q What software do you use to write

scrips?

A Final Draft, which is great for all levels

of writing.

Q Do you use a specific site to read

scripts online?

A Screenplayed and Simply Scripts.

Q Favorite scriptwriting or movie making

books?

A I highly recommend 'Something

Startling Happens' by Todd Klick and 'The

Writer's Journey' by Christopher Vogler.


The Eagle Scout rank

carries a special significance

both in and outside of

Scouting. Collins joins

other prominent Americans

including former President

Gerald Ford, astronaut

Neil Armstrong, filmmaker

Steven Spielberg, Sam

Walton founder of Walmart,

and former Secretary of

Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

Cumming Youth Earns

Eagle Scout Rank

Clayton Collins, III of Cumming, Georgia has earned the highest award the Boy

Scouts of America offers to Scouts, The Eagle Scout Award.

Collins, 17, received the award on July 25, 2019 after passing his Board of Review. In attaining

the Eagle Scout rank, a Scout must demonstrate Scout Spirit, an ideal attitude based upon the

Scout Oath and Law, service, and leadership. This includes an extensive service project that the

Scout plans, organizes, leads, and manages. Collins earned 30 merit badges on his journey to

Eagle. For his Eagle Scout Service Project, he constructed a 96 square foot utility shed for Meals

by Grace Aquaponics Farm. A member of Troop 69 in the Atlanta Area Council chartered to

Alpharetta First United Methodist Church, Collins is one of approximately four percent of all Boy

Scouts who ever achieve this rank.

Collins is the son of Clay and Missy Collins of Cumming. A leader in both Scouting and the

community, Collins has served as the Senior Patrol Leader twice for Troop 69 and their 150+ active

scouts. He was also Senior Patrol Leader for the Northern Ridge District’s Twilight Cub Camp,

leading over 300 elementary aged children

in a week long summer camp. Collins is a

member of the Order of the Arrow, scouting’s

National Honor Society and completed BSA’s

National Youth Leadership Training. He is the

recipient of scouting's Triple Crown award for

attending all three scouting high adventure

trips: Philmont, Northern Tier, and Sea Base.

In his community, Collins is a graduate of the

Youth Leadership Forsyth program, served

as a lifeguard for AMS pools and Woodruff

Scout Camp, and provided over 300 hours

of community service to North Fulton and

Forsyth County Non-Profit and Service

Organizations during his Boy Scout tenure.

Collins is a senior at Blessed Trinity High

School where he is a member of the National

Honor Society, President of Mu Alpha Theta

Math Honor Society, and has participated on

the Blessed Trinity Golf, Tennis, Track and

Cross Country Teams.


“

If you’re comfortable,

you’re doing something

wrong.”

A Strong Sip of Inspiration

By Abigail Blum

Having only recently turned twenty-one, Karli Oakley has been

keeping up with the strong and hardworking crew of Cherry

Street Brewing as not only the youngest, but also the only

female of the beer-making team. Karli has made quite the name

for herself and has moved to their newest location at Halcyon

Forsyth to help run that brewery.

Karli started out as a member of the

Rick Tanner Restaurant staff and had

the goal to learn every aspect of the

business. She believed if she knew at least

a little about each role, then she could always

be there to help when needed. After making

several trips through the back of the restaurant

and over to the brewery, she fell in love

with the “dusty and dirty aspect and wanted

in on it”.

Because of her hard work and dedication

in the restaurant, as well as her interest in

Cherry Street, Karli was soon asked to work

in the brewery alongside what she originally

considered to be “sort of intimidating and

heavily-bearded men” (I can also vouch for

this). Not knowing exactly what a brewery was,

she still proudly headed into an industry she

knew nothing about.

Today, she’s incredibly grateful for that

initial decision as she’s been exposed to an

entirely different world. She explained how

large the beer/craft beer industry really is and

how she’s glad she was introduced to it as there’s

so much to learn – even after having a few years

of it already under her belt.

“… [craft beer] is everywhere and you don’t

see it unless you know it’s there,” Karli said.

Karli described the day-to-day life of the job

as being “a lot of hard work and a lot of sweat,

but if there’s ever a challenge, there’s always

someone there to help so that the struggle is

never long term."

Wondering where she got her grit from, I

asked and she laughed and gave a very proud

and absolute response of, “100% my mom."

Karli and her mom are avid hikers, mountain

bikers, are always outside, and Karli has always

just watched and learned from her mother.

Even her grandmother, who still goes white

water rafting has been an influential part of

who she is, as well as her four brothers. When

Karli isn’t knee deep in Cherry Street, she loves

experimenting with her creative side. She has a

passion for gardening and wood working – her

favorite pieces to make are figurines.

The twenty-one-year-old cellarwoman stays

motivated by wading in discomfort.

“The most exciting thing is being

uncomfortable because that’s when you’re

learning,” Karli stated. She wants no regrets, so

she does everything she sets her mind towards.

When asked what advice she would give her

‘just starting at Cherry Street’ self if she could,

she said to continue to look for the challenge

and remain focused.

“Always have a goal and look at each day as

what I can do to get one step closer to that goal,”

Karli added.

Karli’s outlook and drive are a true

inspiration. Working her way up from a hostess

to an integral part of the brewing business at

just twenty-one really proves that you can do

anything you set your mind to through hard

work, dedication, and possibly a good bit of

sweat (and beer, if you’re lucky).





F

ORSYTH FOODIE

Community Cup

A gathering place, a meeting spot, a hangout, a place for community, these are the

terms used to describe Community Cup. I had the pleasure of meeting with the owner

of Community Cup, Jalynn Barr. She told me about why Community Cup was created

and what impact they have made on the community. Community Cup is a great place

to go for a cup of coffee or tea with friends. The chill environment is welcoming to all.

By Ava Clavijo

Community Cup is a gathering place for

everyone. Their kids menu, which includes fun

items such as edible glitter that decorates their

amazing whipped topping, contributes to their

family-friendly atmosphere. Community Cup is

also just a short walk from Forsyth Central High

School and Otwell Middle School making it an

after-school homework spot. I personally love

walking to Community Cup with my friends

after school and going to study and drink coffee.

I almost always order a medium iced coffee with

caramel drizzle and a chocolate muffin. It is the

perfect afternoon pick me up. Although the

amount of studying completed is questionable,

the coffee and snacks never disappoint. Also,

being in the heart of Cumming makes it a

meeting destination or a lunch spot because of

all the fresh food and coffee.

Community Cup doesn’t just provide a

gathering place for their community, they also

help their community by going to local events. At

local events they sell coffee for the guests. They

also help their community by doing things such

as allowing girl scouts to set up a shop inside

their store. They also donate part of their profits

to CURE Childhood Cancer and other local

non-profits. They have committed to giving back

$10,000 a year to CURE. This is what makes them

more than just another coffeehouse.

Overall, Community Cup is a great

gathering place, and they have done so much for

Forsyth County. They really do believe in and

support the community. I look forward to going

there for years to come. Maybe one day I’ll see

you there!

125 Tribble Gap Rd, Suite 103

Cumming, GA 30040

www.communitycupga.com


By Tracy Ann Moore-Grant


Blended Families

Holiday Survival Tips

By Tracy Ann Moore-Grant

The holiday season can

be a fun time for families,

but for a family of divorce,

it can also be an emotional

time which can lead to

confusion, hurt feelings

and arguments. Here are

some tips for divorced and

blended families to help

the holidays go smoothly.

1. Be Proactive about the schedule

Look at your schedule for the holidays as far in

advance as you can. If you see that you need to

change your schedule due to any special events,

try to negotiate that change as far in advance as

you can. Waiting until the last minute can lead

to an argument with your former spouse, and if

you need to involve an attorney or mediator, they

may be hard to reach during the holiday time.

Also, be accommodating about changing times,

locations and dates if the event is important to

your child.

2. Think of the children first

Especially for younger children, the magic of the

holiday season is something they look forward

to with great excitement. When deciding about

gifts, events, and traditions, make decisions

through they eyes of your child and leave your

personal feelings out of decision making. Would

the choices you are making enhance or derail

their holiday?

3. Confer about traditions for

consistency

Does Santa wrap presents? Does Santa visit

both homes? Does Santa leave a stocking or is

that by the parents? Does the Elf travel to each

home or is he only at one house? Are there

two elves? Do you visit Santa one time to avoid

confusion? When the holidays are upon us,

blended and divorced families are faced not just

with the regular holiday stress but also adding

some sparkle to a child’s holiday through annual

traditions like Elf on the Shelf and Santa Claus.

But kids are very perceptive and will pick up very

quickly if the magic of these traditions is different

in each home. Talk with your co-parent about

how to handle these types of situations so the

children can enjoy the magic as long as possible.

4. Make your own traditions

Now that you have two separate homes, it is

important to not just keep consistency for the

children but to also make exciting new traditions.

Most divorced parents do not get to both see the

children unwrap presents on Christmas morning

so this can lead to an opportunity to create two

fun events for the children. Maybe they eat

breakfast for dinner when then open presents at

the other parent’s house or get to stay in pajamas

all day. Maybe they read a new and special book

Christmas Eve or get to make special cookies

for Santa. It is important to not focus on the

traditions that are lost but to look for the many

opportunities to create two sets of fun traditions.

5. Confer on gifts

For younger children, they may slip up and tell

someone what they want from Santa. Parents

may need to decide if they are each getting a

treasured gift for use in their own home or if this

item will go back and forth with the child. For

older children, technology items are not only

costly but also come with rules. Parents should

be on the same page about internet use, screen

time, whether technology items are taken back

and forth and the maturity of the gifts. Although

parents have every right to have different rules in

their different homes, placing your child in the

middle of these types of disputes is never the

right thing to do.

For co-parents who find it difficult or

impossible to have candid and open conversations

with one another, they should consider using coparenting

software such as Our Family Wizard

or proactively addressing the issues through the

process of Parent Coordination with a neutral

professional. The holidays are stressful enough

without having to maneuver disagreements with

a former spouse. Be proactive and always keep

your children at the forefront of what is best for

them to enjoy their holiday season.

TRACY ANN MOORE-GRANT

has been practicing family

law in North Georgia since

2002. She is a partner at

Patterson Moore Butler in

Cumming, Georgia and is also

a mediator, arbitrator and guardian ad

litem. You can get more information on her

firm’s website at

www.PattersonMooreButler.com

or directly at the Amicable Divorce

Network website at

www.AmicableDivorceNetwork.com



Legacy For

Tomorrow:

IT’S THE SIMPLE THINGS

By Bernie Leonard

"The value of life lies not in the length

of days, but in the use we make of them;

a man may live long yet live very little.”

- Michel de Montaigne

This quote truly sparks something in me.

If we could capture the mental picture in our minds of how the future

would look, would we live our lives differently? We only have one life. Just

one life full of a million moments, decisions and experiences. Sometimes

we are given a second chance if we stumble or miss the target, but not

always. There is never a guarantee. Time is not promised. Success is not

promised. Tomorrow is not promised. What if you could leave a mark,

a legacy, on the world that no one will ever forget? What if you could

influence just one person, one time, but change there life forever? Would

you do it? I encourage you to delve into your day and recognize the

actions that are leaving your legacy! It’s crazy to think how much things

can change over time.

I want you to think back 10 years...what were you doing

then? Now, more importantly, let’s think of what you are

going to do with the next one, five, and 10 years of your life.

Throughout my time here, here’s what I’ve learned:

Moving further and further from …. Creates an output of ….

balance

burnout

potential

meaninglessness

priorities

less time

beliefs

stress

simplicity

excess

faith

fear

vision

confusion

Tethered by technology and the business of life, it is easy to feel burnout,

stressed and have less time to spend on our core relationship and family

foundations. We need to create and keep a balance by keeping our

priorities in check, and to make an impact for tomorrow, we must be

intentional about how we live our lives. Start your intent now.

Take a minute and close your eyes …

Think of the three most important people in your life, whether that be a

parent, co-worker, friend, lover. They are going to go to a remote island to

write your biography:

1. How would they write your journey?

2. What would they say your vision and values are?

3. What was one word to describe your character?

4. What would they say you are committed to?

5. What wisdom would they say you have instilled in

them?

6. What impact have you made to make the world a

better place?

Take the time to answer these six questions and watch how

your daily living will be more meaningful and the impact

you are making on the lives of others. This personal reflection

will bring your legacy into light. Values, character, commitment, wisdom

and contribution are five timeless building blocks for leaving a legacy.

To make tomorrow better than today, it starts with baby steps. A smile,

an unexpected gift of kindness, a hug, being present, building a puzzle

with your children, a helping hand, a kind word, mentoring, taking time

with the elderly, being grateful and saying thank you—all of these little

actions can leave a big legacy. There is nothing too big or too small.

We may not know what color Shakespeare’s eyes were, but we

will never forget “Romeo and Juliet.” We may never know what Martin

Luther King’s favorite food was, but we will never forget the influence

he had on our society. You might not know the person that helped

you in a needy time but the impact they made on your heart was

everlasting. Legacy is a beautiful word, for it is not only about

nonprofits, companies, or foundations that have been set up for

future generations, it is also about intentional everyday living of the

simple things.

Bernie Leonard is passionate about adding

value to the lives around me, continuous growth

and personal relationships.


Skin Cancer:

Fact vs Fiction

By Dr. Weston Waxweiler

Skin cancer is by far the most common

subtype of cancer in the United States.

The three most common types of

skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma,

squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant

melanoma. All three can cause morbidity

and mortality, but the latter two are

typically the more dangerous ones.

These cancers are most often found in areas exposed to the sun, such as

the head, neck, and arms, but they also can occur elsewhere. They are very

common but are also usually very treatable if found early.

The good news is that you can do a lot to protect yourself and your family

from skin cancer, or catch it early so that it can be treated effectively. Most

skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to the sun or other carcinogens.

Most of this exposure comes from the sun, but some may come from indoor

tanning beds and sun lamps. You don’t need any x-rays or blood tests to find

skin cancer early – just your eyes and a mirror.

Importance of Early Screenings:

If you have skin cancer, finding it early is the best way to make sure it can be

treated with success. Regular screenings with a dermatologist as well as selfchecks

can help to protect you and your loved ones from skin cancer. We can

see areas that may be more difficult for you yourself to see (back, neck, scalp,

etc). Regardless, be on the lookout for the following signs:

• Surface appears to be changing – scaliness, oozing, bleeding,

or the appearance of a raised bump or papule

• Wound/sore that does not heal after one month

• Redness or a new swelling beyond the border of a mole or

other lesion

• Change in sensation (more itchy/painful)

• Changing mole or lesion that is growing

Dr. Weston Waxweiler, MD, FAAD is

a board certified dermatologist with

the Cleaver Medical Group. His clinical

expertise and interests include

skin cancer, pediatric dermatology,

diseases of the hair and nails,

and cosmetics.

COMMON MYTHS:

"I have olive/darker skin and so I don’t need to use

sunscreen and am not going to get skin cancer."

False. People with darker skin can and do get

skin cancer, especially the Hispanic and Filipino

populations. Bob Marley himself died of a melanoma.

It can be more difficult to detect a skin cancer in these

skin types so the diagnosis often is delayed, leading to

worsened outcomes.

"I only get sun once a year and therefore am not

worried about my skin cancer risk."

Intermittent acute sun exposure (one or two bad burns

a year) can raise your risk for melanoma exponentially.

Brief intense sun exposure overwhelms your body’s

DNA repair mechanisms, allowing mutations to build

up in your skin cells that later lead to skin cancer. One

tanning session at a UV bed may increase your risk of

malignant melanoma by twenty percent!

"It’s cloudy so I don’t need to worry about sun

protection today."

While clouds block most of the visible spectrum of light

they fail unfortunately to block UV light (a wavelength

of the sun’s energy that is impossible to see but which

causes skin cancer). That means even on cloudy or

winter days we must be careful and use sun protection.

"I don’t have moles, so I’m not at risk of skin cancer."

People with abundant moles are at higher risk of skin

cancer, but that doesn’t mean everyone else is exempt.

People need to watch for any changes in individual

moles, or skin spots. Some skin cancers, including

melanoma, can appear as just pink bumps that don’t

go away.


C

OVER STORY

CLEAVER MEDICAL GROUP OF FORSYTH:

A Time for Thanks and Appreciation

CLEAVER MEDICAL GROUP is celebrating its third year serving the communities of

North Georgia. What began as a small dermatology and pain management practice

founded by Dr. Nathan Cleaver and Dr. Miranda Reed Cleaver, is now a thriving practice.

“As we approach Cleaver Medical Group’s threeyear

anniversary, we want to thank the Forsyth

community for their support, our referring

physicians, and all our patients that have

entrusted their own healthcare and that of their

family members to Cleaver Medical Group,” Dr.

Nathan Cleaver said as we began our interview.

“

Although we have expanded,

we have continued to add medical

providers that incorporate our

philosophy and founding principles.

We approach the medical practice

as a family,” Dr. Cleaver added.

The medical practice is very

proud of its staff.

“We have been fortunate to have found some

of the greatest staff that are an extension of our

family and help facilitate the patient experience

at Cleaver Medical Group. All our physicians

are board certified within their respective

specialties and embody the philosophy that the

patient always comes first,” added Dr. Reed.

The dermatology practice has grown over

the past few years. Joining Dr. Cleaver are

Dr. Weston Waxweiler, Janette Walsh-NP,

Grace Delerme-NP, and Heather Fry-NP. We

treat each patient as we would expect our own

family members and friends.

“Our mission since inception has been

to create a comprehensive skin care center

that focuses on medical, surgical, including

Mohs micrographic surgery, and cosmetic

dermatology, as well as initiating clinical

research studies into the new therapies and

treatment strategies within dermatology,”

stated Dr. Cleaver. “We have achieved this,

and now provide these services to Forsyth,

Dawson, and Lumpkin counties with an office

in each location.”

The interventional pain management

practice has also expanded and now includes

Dr. Miranda Reed Cleaver and Dr. Colin Kress.

“We continue to operate as a 100%

physician referral-based practice, implementing

conservative, yet effective strategies for chronic

pain including interventional techniques and

medication management,” explained Dr. Reed


Cleaver. “The pain management team strives to

help improve the overall quality of our patient’s

life. Our philosophy is focused on a multimodal

approach to help improve the functional

outcome of each patient so that they are able to

get back to doing the things they love.”

The pain management team also serves the

Forsyth, Dawson, and Lumpkin county areas

with offices in each location.

Even though the group has expanded coverage

into additional areas, Forsyth community is

their home, and remain their priority.

“

At Cleaver Medical Group,

we truly feel privileged to have

been afforded the opportunity to

take care of our neighbors, friends,

and fellow community members

over the past three years. This

is a trust that we will continue to

protect and grow as our team and

community grows over the next

30 years,” Dr. Cleaver stated.

CLEAVER MEDICAL GROUP

105 Professional Park Drive, Cumming, GA 30040

770-800-3455 | www.cleavermedicalgroup.com

MIRANDA REED

CLEAVER D.O.

Dr. Cleaver graduated from the

University of Georgia with a Bachelor

of Science in Biology in 2006. Dr.

Cleaver continued her education

and attended medical school at the

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic

Medicine, Georgia Campus. She

completed her four years of training in

Anesthesiology at McLaren Oakland

Hospital, part of the Michigan State

University Statewide Campus

System . Following the completion

of her residency training, Dr. Cleaver

completed her Fellowship in Pain

Management at McLaren Oakland

Hospital.

NATHAN CLEAVER D.O.

FAOCD, FAAD

Dr. Cleaver completed his

dermatopathology fellowship

at the Ackerman Academy of

Dermatopathology in New York, New

York. After the completion of his

dermatopathology fellowship, Dr.

Cleaver went onto complete a Mohs

micrographic surgery fellowship at

Northeast Regional Medical Center

in Missouri. He completed his

dermatology residency, where he

served as chief resident, at Michigan

State University - St. Joseph Mercy

Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr.

Cleaver completed his internship at

the St. John Health System.

WESTON WAXWEILER M.D.,

FAAD

Dr. Waxweiler completed medical

school at the Medical College of

Georgia. Before graduating, Dr.

Waxweiler spent a year studying

melanoma at the University of North

Carolina Chapel Hill as a Doris Duke

Fellow. He then moved to Denver

Colorado to complete his internship

at Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical

Center. Dr. Waxweiler completed

his dermatologic residency at the

University of California Irvine where

he gained extensive experience with

skin cancer, pediatric dermatology,

and cosmetics.

COLIN KRESS, D.O.

Dr. Kress attended Oglethorpe

University where he received his

bachelor’s degree in Biopsychology

and Chemistry. He completed his

medical degree at Lincoln Memorial

University-DeBusk College of

Osteopathic Medicine in 2014

and subsequently completed his

Anesthesia Residency and Pain

Management Fellowship at Michigan

State University McLaren Oakland

Hospital.


High Hopes for

Heart Failure Help

By Narendra Singh, MD

Since my original article on heart failure in the December 2012 issue of this magazine we have

come a long way in terms of the treatment of heart failure. Heart failure is categorized into groups.

The most common is called heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) where the heart is

unable to pump the blood forward effectively. The next most common is heart failure with preserved

ejection fraction (HFpEF) where the left ventricle is stiff and does not fill well. In addition, there is also

right sided heart failure which is associated with pulmonary hypertension and lung disease.

The techniques used to diagnose heart

failure have not changed much and I

would refer you to my previous article.

We now often do a blood test called BNP or NT

proBNP – brain natruretic peptide. When this is

elevated it suggests that heart failure is present. A

normal ejection fraction is > 60%.

Once the diagnosis of heart failure is made a

series of tests are done to try and understand the

underlying cause for heart failure, which can be

related to clogged arteries, high blood pressure,

valvular abnormalities, congenital disorders, viral

infections, toxic drugs, or radiation exposure.

Then comes the treatment phase. Some of the

treatment is specific to the underlying cause.

However, for patients who have heart failure

with reduced ejection fraction, multiple drugs

play an important role. Beta blockers (carvedilol,

metoprolol ) are used to reduce the work of

the heart by lowering heart rate. If this is not

sufficient, then a drug called ivabradine can be

used to lower the heart rate further.

Next are drugs called ACE inhibitors (enalapril,

lisinopril) or angiotensin receptor antagonists

(losartan, valsartan) which are used to lower

the blood pressure so as to make it easier for the

heart to pump the blood forward. In the process

the heart heals and the ejection fraction goes up.

The third drug that is added to this regimen is

called spironolactone; it works as a gentle diuretic

while remodeling the heart muscle. In the African

American population a combination drug called

Bidil (hydralazine + nitrate) is also beneficial.

Two new drugs have made a major impact

in our ability to improve the quality of life for

heart failure patients as well as increase survival.

The first is a drug called Entresto (valsartan/

sacubitril) which replaces the ACE inhibitor

or ARB. This drug improves ejection fraction,

quality of life, exercise tolerance and the need

for repeat hospital admissions. It is a life-saving

medication that reduces the chances of dying by

over 16% within two years.

The second major advancement is a class of

medications that was first used in diabetic patients

called SGLT2 inhibitors. Jardiance (empagiflozin)

and Farxiga (dapagliflozin) have both shown

a significant reduction in the development of

heart failure as well as the need for heart failure

hospitalizations. Dapagliflozin in a large clinical trial

also showed a 17% reduction in mortality over a two

year time frame. There are ongoing trials with these

agents to assess whether they will also help patients

with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction.

While preventing heart failure is still our

most important objective, it is gratifying to see

that some of the clinical research we participated

right here in Forsyth County has resulted in

valuable new therapeutic options to help when

needed most.

NARENDRA SINGH, MD,

FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA

Clinical Assistant Professor, Medical

College of Georgia at Augusta University,

Director,Clinical Research-Atlanta Heart

Specialists,

1400 Northside Forsyth Dr, Suite 200, Cumming,

GA, USA, 30041

Phone (678) 679-6800

4375 Johns Creek Parkway, Suite 350,

Johns Creek, GA, 30024 | (770) 622-1622

DrSingh@ahsmed.com | heartdrsingh.com



Bonding with

Baby at Birth

and Postpartum:

A Midwife’s

Perspective

By Emily Dixon, C.N.M., F.N.P.

Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting time for parents. Often

times, new parents may feel uncertain on how to best bond with their baby.

The tips given in this article are applicable both in the hospital and at home.

As midwives, we are strong advocates for early mother and

baby bonding. This includes immediate skin to skin after delivery,

if medically safe. Skin to skin means placing the baby directly onto the

mother’s bare chest in an upright position, with the baby’s head turned to

the side for easy breathing, and blankets placed over the baby’s body. This

helps promote breastfeeding while also keeping the baby’s temperature, heart

rate, and breathing regulated. Additionally skin to skin lowers the level of

stress hormones, soothing both mother and baby. Other family members

and parents can use skin to skin to bond with the baby as well.

Rooming-in is another way to bond with your baby. Rooming-in allows

the family and newborn to become familiar with one another. Additionally,

when mother and baby are sharing a room, the baby will often cry less, be

soothed easily, and breastfeed more frequently. To practice rooming-in

safely, the baby should have their own crib or bassinet to sleep in and be

within arm’s reach of the mother. Rooming-in reduces the risk of SIDS and

actually allows both mother and baby to sleep better.

Finally, encouraging breastfeeding as often and for as long as possible is

another way for mothers to bond with their babies. Exclusively breastfeeding

is recommended until the baby is six months old. Breastfeeding has many

benefits such as strengthening the baby’s immune system and reducing the

baby’s risk of obesity, asthma, allergies, and diabetes. Breastfeeding also has

benefits to mom as well, including reducing the risk of breast cancer and

ovarian cancer.

There are so many wonderful ways to bond with your baby. As Midwives,

one of our greatest roles is helping new moms with this transition and

supporting them with whatever they need.

Modern OBGYN has three convenient office locations. Visit our newest office at Avalon in Alpharetta located

at 2710 Old Milton Parkway Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30009. For more information on our practice and

providers, visit www.reyesobgyn.com.

Emily Dixon, a dual certified nurse-midwife and family nurse practitioner, has a compassionate approach and

is dedicated to being an advocate for her patients. She believes in being a partner alongside her patients,

empowering and supporting them through education and collaborative care.


Are Your Hormones to Blame?

By Deanna Hoke, Nutrition Health Coach

Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers produced by your endocrine glands (adrenals, thyroid, pancreas,

ovaries or testes) and perform essential functions, relay important warnings and communicate messages throughout

the body. They make sure that everything is running smoothly and that your rhythms stay in sync. Many things can

challenge your endocrine system, leading to imbalances in your hormone levels or function. Identifying and correcting

these issues early helps maintain health and prevents the onset of chronic disease.

Insomnia

There are many reasons why someone may be

having difficulty sleeping. But if it’s persistent,

it’s likely related to a hormonal imbalance.

Melatonin, the well-known sleep chemical,

is a hormone released by the pineal gland

in the brain. As a hormone, it is intimately

related and affected by the other hormones.

If you are not sleeping well, it would be

wise to have a professional assist you in

holistically determining why (like a Certified

Health Coach).

Here are just some symptoms that

can appear if your hormones are

imbalanced:

Fatigue

Everyone gets tired, but you should recover with

adequate rest, hydration and a healthy diet. If

you feel you are taking care of yourself but are

still exhausted or just can’t seem to get back to

your best, consider having a comprehensive

evaluation of your hormone levels. Adrenal

fatigue and hypothyroidism are more prevalent

in our high-paced society than you may think.

Anxiety

It may not be all in your head! Excess adrenal

stimulation due to the outrageous stress that

we subject ourselves to has become a silent

epidemic. Cortisol and norepinephrine,

produced and released by the adrenal glands,

may be what you are perceiving as anxiety.

Weight Gain or

Difficulty Losing

Weight

Why is it that so many people struggle with

weight fluctuations? Living and working in

our busy lifestyles - the body experiences these

challenges as stress. And when the body is

stressed, it produces more cortisol. Cortisol tells

your body to hang on to that fat because it’s a

great stored form of energy.

Digestive Issues

and Irritable

Bowel Syndrome

There are more neurotransmitters in the gut

than there are in the brain. After all, your gut

is now being considered your ‘second brain.’

So, it should be no surprise that individuals

commonly experience gut symptoms related

to conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Hormones influence gut function in other ways

as well, such as affecting the microbiome of the

gut (the bacterial system in our intestines).

Hormone imbalances can lead to imbalances

in our bacterial colonies influencing their

numbers and function. Gastrointestinal

imbalances can be caused by hormone

imbalances and vice versa.

A Functional Medical Provider focuses on

finding the root cause of your symptoms

and can help you to understand and resolve

these hormonal imbalances. Hormone

management is a delicate, imprecise and

sophisticated matter. As always, make sure you

consult an expert.

Deanna Hoke

770.880.0181

deanna@inspiredtobewell.com

inspiredtobewell.com



Health Care in the United States

By Richard McCormick, MD, MBA

Why, in the wealthiest country in the world, is healthcare

one of the biggest problems facing Americans? Is this problem

new? Isn’t this something that has been debated for decades with no clear solution? Welcome to a

supercharged topic full of emotion and conflicting statistics. I am an Emergency Medicine Physician with

an MBA who belongs to the American Medical Association as well as the Medical Association of Georgia.

I have served as a physician for the military as well as for Northside Hospital System (where I currently

work). As a 20 year veteran, I am also a part of the VA. My wife has been an oncologist for over 20

years. In other words, I understand government as well as private healthcare. The enormity of this issue

cannot be digested in a single article. It is a many-headed hydra as can be witnessed by the Affordable

Care Act (ACA) that attempted to lop off the head of the monster, only to create several new problems

with ever-increasing premiums and health care gaps.

Let’s start with the basics…

Has this always been a problem? What was it like

50 years ago when this didn’t seem to be a topic of

concern? What has changed in our nation? Life

expectancy has actually increased over the years.

However, that trend is in jeopardy with the early

onset of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension that

comes with a worsening sedentary lifestyle of

Americans. Many people think of health care as a

basic right. The problem is, to what extent? Does

that mean free annual visits, free medications,

and unlimited ER visits despite your refusal to

hold a job, stop smoking, lose weight, or decrease

your addictive behaviors? I cannot stay entirely

neutral in this debate. Now the argument is that

anyone who is in the United States, legally or not,

should be given free health care. The next thing I

am about to write may shock you… it is already

happening.

Across the nation, there are millions upon

millions of tax dollars spent on health care. The

cost for “free services” are passed on to all of us

via insurance premiums and by government

agencies. Congestive heart failure, cancer, end of

life services, or any complaint at all… all covered

by laws that require every patient who comes to

the emergency department needs to be evaluated

and treated if necessary. Note that I am not

taking a position on this, just stating the facts.

In the next several months, I will touch on

a variety of healthcare problems which will need

to be addressed. We will discuss the single-payer

option (Universal Healthcare), the tiered system,

insurance regulation, surprise billings, the VA,

end-of-life care, and the cost of medicines. We

will take on the “machine” and try to offer

alternatives, or at least education on the very

complex issues that face our great nation as we

search for our identity.

Rich McCormick, MD, MBA,

is an emergency room

doctor and retired Marine.


friendsofmccormick.com.



Our Most

Valuable

Resource:

Time

By Jenessa Sabella

How do you spend your time? Do you have priorities for who and what you spend your

time on? Time has been called a blessing, a gift, a thief, a healer. We cannot stop time

or control it, but we can decide what to do with it. We can choose our priorities and

where we focus our attention.

How many times do you hear people say they are busy? Do

you find yourself saying that you are busy? Do you feel too

busy to do things you wish you had time for? From exercise,

cleaning and getting together with friends and family, time takes the blame

for the things people don’t do in their lives. In a world full of choices, it is

crucial that we learn how to prioritize the way we spend our days and hours

here on Earth.

Mindset shifts for time management

Look for limiting belief patterns in your thoughts.

They could sound like:

I’m too busy.

I don’t have time

I’m always late

There aren’t enough hours in the day

Learn to re-pattern your thoughts by replacing these limiting beliefs with

positive thoughts. It may feel uncomfortable, cheesy or silly, but studies show

that our thoughts are the key to positive change in our lives.

They could sound like:

I am giving this time because it’s important.

I can find time for what I love.

I am becoming more punctual.

I am grateful for each day and what it brings.

I deserve to spend time on this

Think about the things and people who get the majority of your time. Be

honest with yourself about what you could give up in order to make time for

more important things. Where can you be more efficient? Try making a list

of the most important things and people in your life and use that to adjust

your daily routines.

There are strategies that help us take control of our time and how we spend it.

You can access tools online or at the local bookstore to begin creating better

habits for how you organize your days.

Check out “Clever Fox” planners, which help you to set and reach goals with

better time management.

For ideas on prioritizing tasks and deciding what to focus on and what order

to attack your to do list, read “Eat the Frog” by Brian Tracy.

Remember, for the people you love, there is no better gift than your time.

Give a child or an elder your undivided attention and see their eyes light up.

In a life consumed by busy work, hustle and technology, we often miss what

is happening right in front of us. Look and listen more deeply. Put down the

phone. You won’t regret giving your time to loved ones.

Jennessa Sabella, Outdoor adventurer

Owner of Bliss Mama Wellness

www.BlissMamaWellness.com

(770) 722-2711



B URGESS BLOG

Take a Break:

AND HAVE YOUR CAR’S BRAKES CHECKED

By Tom Burgess, Owner, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming GA

“Honey, would you please get the

brakes checked on the minivan? They

are squealing again!” my wife would

request. I would check them and they looked

fine. That would not satisfy her. So, I would take

it to our favorite repair shop (this was before

I owned one), and they would tell me the pads

were fine and the vehicle was perfectly safe – the

pads just squeal. This went on for over 100,000

miles until they finally wore out and we had to

replace them. Then there was no more squealing.

Brakes seem so simple, what’s going on?

Well, brakes are more complicated than they

first appear, and here’is a fact most people don’t

know - all brakes make noise. During braking,

when the brake pad makes contact with the

rotor, both components vibrate – and vibration

is noise. Automotive engineers have a variety

of ways to make the vibration/noise acceptable,

including sending the vibrations into the caliper

and suspension components, using lubricants

and shims to deaden the vibrations, and using

different pad materials.

What makes one brake pad quieter than

another? One of the most important factors

is the pad material. Most vehicles come from

the factory with semi-metallic pads which are

fairly inexpensive, long lasting, but in order to

last a long time their metal content is very high,

and as such they can squeal. Wait, did I say

fairly inexpensive? Yes, factory parts are not

always the highest quality parts which might be

surprising. But it makes sense when you look at

the economics. Honda sold 2.5 million of copies

of our van. If they can save two dollars on each

brake pad that’s 16 dollars per van, which puts

40 million dollars in their pockets overall. We

use ceramic pads which cost a few dollars more

per pad, but we find they almost never squeal.

They actually transfer a layer of pad material

onto the rotor’s surface. The layer is always

being worn and replenished by the pad during

braking, and this keeps the friction consistent.

But even ceramic pads can squeal if other things

are not correct. For instance, cheap ceramic

pads may have backing plates that can flex or

the pads may be poorly attached to the backing

plate - both can cause noise. If the finish on the

rotor is not correct there can be uneven friction

which causes vibration – and that’s why a quality

brake job should always include refinishing the

rotor if it is to be re-used. Never re-use the old

rusted hardware when you change pads, always

“

Brakes seem so simple, what’s going on? Well, brakes

are more complicated than they first appear, and here is

a fact most people don’t know - all brakes make noise.

insist on new components to ensure the pads

can move freely in the bracket but not have

excessive play. If you replace rotors, don’t

purchase the cheapest ones you can find –

because inexpensive rotors can actually move

and flex. While not visible to the naked eye,

this movement can cause noise. The same goes

for the brake calipers. Quality heavy calipers

will dampen vibration and keep a consistent

“friction footprint” between the pads and the

rotor’s face under different braking conditions.

But wait – there’s more! Brake shims and

insulators control noise in many ways as well, but

that would take too much room to explain. So

what’s the bottom line? Brakes that squeal may

simply be caused by brake materials or other

conditions but get them checked to be sure. And

if you want to make sure your car's new brakes do

not squeal, you may need to pay a little extra for

the better quality components. Your neighbors

will be happier with you in the morning!



3

Ways to Help

Students Deal with Stress

As Head of School at Pinecrest Academy, I am very proud to serve as a member of the Forsyth County

Total Wellness Collaborative. The Wellness Collaborative is an organization lead by the Forsyth County

School District, and its members include school leaders in our County, in addition to professionals

from the medical and counseling fields. The mission of our team is to bring awareness to current

wellness topics and trends in Forsyth County.

By Dr. Edward J. Spurka, Head of School Pinecrest Academy

One issue facing our students, that

comes up in each of our meetings,

is the increased amount of social

anxiety and stress they experience.

In my 20-plus years as a school administrator

and a father of two, I have worked with

thousands of teenagers to gain a clear

understanding of the pressures they encounter.

While students face a number of stressors that

existed when we were in school (i.e., getting

good grades, balancing school and activities,

dealing with peer pressure), social media and

the increased level of competition to make an

athletic team or get into a good college have

contributed to an elevated number of students

who have been diagnosed with anxiety.

Some natural pressures are going to exist

for every student; it’s part of life. There is

always going to be a first day of school, or

a first day back to school after Christmas

break, or a day where just about every teacher

has assigned homework. It’s important for

students to learn how to navigate through

some of these stressors on their own and

understand that feeling anxious is a normal

emotion that everyone feels at some point.

Here are some strategies that have served

me well in helping my children and students

at my schools better navigate the stressors in

school and in life in general.

1.

Focus on the things

your child can control

I have learned that students can perform at

higher levels when they are able to concentrate

on the things they can control. Whether it

is in the classroom or on the tennis court or

basketball court, focusing on the controllable

can increase performance. Students need to

learn to focus their efforts in preparing for a test

and making sure they have all their questions

answered, rather than worrying about things

they can’t control, like how fast other students

complete the test. In basketball, if you focus

on bending your legs and breathing (things


you can control) and not on students in the

bleachers trying to distract you, you are more

likely to have success shooting free-throws.

2.

Set short-term goals

and celebrate progress

I learned with my daughter that setting shortterm,

measurable goals could serve a valuable

purpose in building her confidence. When

students get caught up in their overall GPA

or grades in a class, they can become overly

anxious and unable to work effectively. I had to

help my daughter set shorter time segments and

worry about them one week at a time. When

she worried about the end of the semester

grade, she struggled to perform on weekly

tasks or assignments. By concentrating on one

assignment at a time, she found her work more

manageable, and she felt less overwhelmed and

more in control.

I had to help my daughter focus on being

in a specific moment. In tennis, she worried

about her rankings, playing college tennis,

and her eligibility for playing in national

tournaments. I bought her a bracelet that

said, “Be Where Your Feet Are.” This served

as a reminder that when she was on the tennis

court, she should focus on breathing, her

energy, and her effort. When she was taking

a test in school, she learned to concentrate on

the knowledge needed for that test. I made

sure my conversations with her centered on

short-term events, not about things to come

six or twelve months down the road. She also

learned to celebrate short-term gains. I did not

wait until the end of the semester to recognize

my daughter’s grade in math. I made sure I

acknowledged her academic performance

throughout the semester, especially when she

earned an A on a test or assignment.

3.

Teach your child to

just BREATHE during

stressful times

Focused breathing can help students overcome

some of the pressures of high school, believe it or

not. In stressful situations, I learned that I am like

most people - I get tense. I realized that when a car

pulls out in front of me, my blood pressure goes up,

my muscles tense up, and my breathing often stops.

When we get tense, we have a tendency to hold our

breath, which causes our muscles to tense.

Here’s a simple breathing activity, for which

you can use a piece of 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper or

any rectangle. Inhale slowly along the horizontal

side of the paper and exhale slowly down and up

along the vertical side of the paper.

“

The pressures of taking the

SAT or an AP exam, getting

a driver’s license, or trying

out for the baseball team are

real sources of anxiety for our

children. I am hopeful that

by choosing to focus on the

things your child can control,

setting short-term goals,

and relying on breathing

exercises, you and your child

may be better equipped to

handle some of the pressures

of school and life.

This breathing technique helps increase

oxygen to the brain, which not only relaxes

your muscles, but also clears your mind so you

can focus. This simple activity works when

taking a test, looking at a computer screen, or

competing in a sport. You will be amazed how

many rectangles exist in your world! I have

actually used this technique when driving.

When someone pulls out in front of me or

cuts me off, instead of getting upset, I use this

breathing exercise. The license plate in front of

me serves as a good rectangle!

The pressures of taking the SAT or an

AP exam, getting a driver’s license, or trying

out for the baseball team are real sources of

anxiety for our children. I am hopeful that by

choosing to focus on the things your child can

control, setting short-term goals, and relying on

breathing exercises, you and your child may be

better equipped to handle some of the pressures

of school and life. These strategies might not

always guarantee success, but they can maximize

your child’s performance and give your child a

much better chance of being successful.

Note: Should your child experience any significant

changes in his or her sleeping or eating patterns, or

if you notice any changes in your child’s health or

emotional disposition, do not hesitate to see your

family doctor or your child’s school counselor.

For more ideas on helping students handle stress, feel free to contact me at

espurka@pinecrestacademcy.org or contact Lindsey Simpson at

lssimpson@Forsyth.k12.ga.us with the Forsyth County Total Wellness Collaborative.

We would welcome the opportunity to introduce ourselves to you and your family. For

more information, feel free to visit our website at www.Pinecrestacademy.org.


MY FORSYTH | SCHOOL DIRECTORY

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Big Creek Elementary

1994 Peachtree Parkway

770.887.4584

Principal: Laura Webb

lwebb@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brandywine Elementary

15 Martin Dr. Alpharetta

Principal: Todd Smith

tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Brookwood Elementary

2980 Vaughan Drive

678.965.5060

Principal: Tracey Smith

tsmith@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Chattahoochee Elementary

2800 Holtzclaw Road

770.781.2240

Principal: Barbara Vella

bvella@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Chestatee Elementary

6945 Keith Bridge Road

770.887.2341

Principal: Polly Tennies

ptennies@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Coal Mountain Elementary

3455 Coal Mountain Drive

770.887.7705

Principal: Kimberly Davis

kdavis@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Cumming Elementary

540 Dahlonega Street

770.887.7749

Principal: Jordan Livermore

jlivermore@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Daves Creek Elementary

3740 Melody Mizer Lane

770.888.1223

Principal: Eric Ashton

eashton@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Haw Creek Elementary

2555 Echols Road

678.965.5070

Principal: June Tribble

jtribble@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Johns Creek Elementary

6205 Old Atlanta Road

678.965.5041

Principal: Alyssa Degliumberto

adegliumberto@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Kelly Mill Elementary

1180 Chamblee Gap Road

678.965.4953

Principal: Ron McAlliste

rmcallister@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Mashburn Elementary

3777 Samples Road

770.889.1630

Principal: Carla Gravitt

cgravitt@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Matt Elementary

7455 Wallace Tatum Road

678.455.4500

Principal: Charlley Stalder

cstalder@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Midway Elementary

4805 Atlanta Highway

770.475.6670

Principal: Jan Munroe

jmunroe@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Poole’s Mill Elementary

(Opening 2020-2021)

Principal: Paige Andrews

pandews@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sawnee Elementary

1616 Canton Highway

770.887.6161

Principal: Derrick Hershey

dhershey@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Settles Bridge Elementary

600 James Burgess Road

770.887.1883

Principal: Saran VonEsh

svonesh@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sharon Elementary


770.888.7511

Principal: Amy Bartlett

abartlett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Shiloh Point Elementary

8145 Majors Road

678.341.6481

Principal: Ben Jones

Bjones@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Sliver City Elementary

6200 Dahlonega Highway

678.965.5020

Principal: Mike Sloop

msloop@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Vickery Creek Elementary

6280 Post Road

770.346.0040

Principal: Kristan Riedinger

kriedinger@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Whitlow Elementary

3655 Castleberry Road

678.965.5090

Principal: Dr. Lynne Castleberry

lcastleberry@forsyth.k12.ga.us

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

DeSana Middle School

625 James Road, Alpharetta

Principal: Terri North

tnorth@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lakeside Middle

2565 Echols Road

678.965.5080

Principal: Kim Head

khead@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Liberty Middle

7465 Wallace Tatum Road

770.781.4889

Principal: Cheryl Riddle

criddlel@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Little Mill Middle

6800 Little Mill Road

678.965.5000

Principal: Connie McCrary

cmccrary@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth Middle


770.889.0743

Principal: Todd McClelland

tmcclelland@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Otwell Middle

605 Tribble Gap Road

770.887.5248

Principal: Steve Miller

stmiller@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Piney Grove Middle

8135 Majors Road

678.965.5010

Principal: Pamela Pajerski

ppajerski@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Riverwatch Middle


678.455.7311

Principal: Pam Bibik

pbibik@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth Middle

4670 Windermere Parkway

Cumming, GA 30041

Principal: Sandy Tinsley

stinsley@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Vickery Creek Middle

6240 Post Road

770.667.2580

Principal: Scott Feldcamp

sfeldcamp@forsyth.k12.ga.us

HIGH SCHOOLS

Alliance Academy for Innovations

1100 Lanier 400 Parkway

470-695-7823

Principal: Brandi Cannizzaro

bcannizzro@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Denmark High

645 Mullinax Road, Alpharetta

470-533-2521

Principal: Heather Gordy

hgordy@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Forsyth Central High

520 Tribble Gap Road

770.887.8151

Principal: Mitch Young

myoung@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Lambert High School

805 Nichols Road

678.965.5050

Principal: Dr. Gary Davison

gdavison@forsyth.k12.ga.us

North Forsyth High


770.781.6637

jcheney@forsyth.k12.ga.us

South Forsyth High


770.781.2264

Principal: Laura Wilson

lwilson@forsyth.k12.ga.us

West Forsyth High

4155 Drew Road

770.888.3470

Principal: Karl Mercer

kmercer@forsyth.k12.ga.us

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Cornerstone Schools

4888 Browns Bridge Road

770.205.8202

Head of School: Angela Martin

www.cornerstonesch.com

Covenant Christian Academy

6905 Post Road

770.674.2990

Headmaster: Jonathan Arnold

www.covenantrams.com

Fideles Christian School

1390 Weber Industrial Drive

770.888.6705

Director: Carla Rutherford

www.fideleschristianschool.com

Ivy League Montessori School

1791 Kelly Mill Road

770.781.5586

School Director: Becky Carty

www.ilmsnet.com

Montessori at Vickery

6285 Post Road

770.777.9131

www.montessorivickery.com

Montessori Kids Academy


678.208.0774

School Admin., Maureen Danbury

www.montessoricumming.com

Pinecrest Academy


770.888.4477

Headmaster: Dr. Edward J. Lindekugel

www. pinecrestacademy.com

SCHOOL INFORMATION

www.forsyth.K12.GA.US

50 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM MYFORSYTH.COM VOLUME VOLUME VI | ISSUE IX | ISSUE 10 4

Inaugural State of the Schools

and the County Recaps

Last school year, Forsyth County Schools

continued to grow, making them home to

more than 49,800 students. The system’s

fastest-growing student demographic is Asian/

Indian students, which accounts for 22 percent

of the entire student population. Of the system’s

38 brick and mortar schools, 15 have majorityminority

student populations. The system also

maintains the designation of being the seventh

largest school district in the state.

Among metro-Atlanta districts and large

districts, Forsyth County Schools have the

highest College and Career Ready Performance

Index (CCRPI) score, graduation rate, SAT

scores and repeatedly hold the highest state

financial efficiency rating. The CCRPI is a

report card from the state that ranks both

schools and school districts on a 100-point

scale using a variety of data sources such

as student achievement, school climate and

financial efficiency.

The 2017/2018 year was one of major

construction for the Forsyth County school

system. One of the largest projects was the

Alliance Academy for Innovation (AAI).

The Academy is Forsyth County Schools’

seventh high school with the capacity for

1,200 students. At the State of the Schools,

the principal of the AAI, Brandi Cannizzaro,

spoke on the successful year for the new

school. After opening in the Fall of 2018, the

Academy hosted 500 new students in the ninth

and tenth grade levels. It accepted 300 new

students for the 2019-2020 school year and

brought on 17 new teachers to accommodate

the larger student body. The first year for the

school saw the creation of many career and

technology student organizations like HOSA,

DECA, Technology Student Association,

Future Business Leaders of America, and First

Robotics Competitions. It also was the first

To celebrate the new school year

and the successful previous one, the

Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber

of Commerce recently hosted the

Inaugural State of the Schools

Luncheon. At the event, Forsyth County

Board of Education Chair, Kristin

Morrissey, spoke about Forsyth County

schools’ accomplishments and what is

to come for Forsyth County education.

year Forsyth County students got to experience

innovative pathways with a focus on career

technical education, including aerospace,

logistics, healthcare and mechatronics.

With the county growing every day, there

is a projected enrollment of 54,100 students in

2021. To accommodate this growth, in the next

two years the Forsyth County School system

plans to open two new elementary schools, a

high school and a middle school as well as an

Academy for Creative Education and a new

Performing Arts Center.

The Chamber applauds the Board of

Education and Forsyth County educators

as they work hard to prepare the county’s

future workforce. To learn about partnership

opportunities with the school system, contact

Hannah Samples, Communications and

Partnerships Facilitator, at hsamples@forsyth.

k12.ga.us.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ACROSS BORDERS

Forsyth County’s State of the County Address,

hosted by the Cumming-Forsyth County

Chamber of Commerce, saw the roll-out of

a new partnership between Forsyth County

Government, the Chamber of Commerce,

the Development Authority, Forsyth County

Schools and Forsyth County’s higher education

institutions, called Forward Forsyth. This

partnership is serving as the driving force

behind Forsyth County’s strategic economic

development plan produced in 2018 by TIP

Strategies consultants. The plan identified target

industries: e-commerce, data services, technology,

healthcare and advanced manufacturing, to

name a few. It also promoted action items like

convention center development, development

of commercial product in north Forsyth County,

mixed-use developments, efficient regulatory

processes and other items.

The plan also recommended meeting with

emerging companies in communities like

Nashville that may be looking for expansion

opportunities in metro Atlanta. To explore

this idea, Forward Forsyth’s Vice President of

Economic Development, Robert Long, and

Forward Forsyth’s Existing Project Manager, Alex

Warner, are planning a trip to Nashville to meet

with companies in early October.

Nashville has succeded at attracting a high

volume of tech businesses from other states,

resulting in its tech sector being ranked as a

top emerging tech hub in the nation. As these

businesses grow and thrive, Nashville becomes

a fertile field for economic recruiters from all

over the country. Recently the Nashville Business

Journal reported on this activity, noting visits

from economic developers as far west as Utah!

“With a growing number of fintech, IoT

(internet of things), AI (artificial intelligence)

and blockchain companies in Forsyth County.

Technology is one of our target sectors. Our

top school system in Georgia, lowest property

taxes in metro Atlanta and high concentration of

tech workers and engineers residing in Forsyth

County, make us a great fit for expanding tech

companies,” commented Long.

Since the beginning of 2019, Forward

Forsyth’s efforts have contributed to the

creation of nearly $62 million in new capital

investments and more than 400 new jobs

as a result of 54 economic development

projects. To learn more about this economic

development plan and the strategies

included in it, contact Laura Stewart at

lstewart@cummingforsythchamber.org.



Leadership Profile

MITCH YOUNG, Principal, Forsyth Central High School

Mitch Young, Principal of Forsyth Central High School (FCHS), is a natural leader.

Young has been teaching and coaching along the east coast from Pennsylvania

to Florida. He began his career at Forsyth Central in 2014, and has consistently

been modifying Forsyth Central to become the best it can be.

By Megan Hilton

“

If you love what you

do, I think it shows.

And I love coming to

this job everyday and

so if you love doing

something then you

are probably going

to be more positive

about it,” Young said.

Young loves his job and it shows; you

can see how much he wants to help out each and

every student.

“If you love what you do, I think it shows.

And I love coming to this job everyday and so if

you love doing something then you are probably

going to be more positive about it,” Young said.

His attitude and view of FCHS is reflected

in what the school has become, from the staff

that he has brought into the school, to the

changes he and his staff have made that adapt

to the students’ needs. With every person he

hires, he looks for people who love teaching

and working with high school students. One

thing the educators all have in common is that

they all have the same love for the community

and for the kids.

Young started meeting with seniors to get

students’ opinions on how to improve the school

and create a better community.

“I believe that everyone should feel like they

are heard and have a voice,” Young explained. He

also considers the students’ health, whether it’s

their mental or physical health.

The Wellness Center is one of the new features

that were created to benefit the students and

faculty. The Center encourages students to take a

break, reset and calm down. Along with his staff,

Young created a Power Hour. Power Hour gives

students time to put their phones down, socialize

with friends, take a nap, and even get extra help

from teachers to further their academic careers.

Every detail of the school schedule has been

planned to help the students become successful.

Young also keeps up with the younger

generations by using a wide variety of social

media; mostly, Twitter. He keeps up with ‘these

high schoolers’, so he can better understand what

is going on right then – in the moment.

Young and a colleague have had races to

see who can tweet out the scores of games the

fastest, or even to tweet out good news. He’s

aware of the dark side of social media and tries

very hard to keep the students safe from the

dangers of social media.

Principal Young works hard to make Forsyth

Central not just a school, but a community.

Central is the oldest school in Forsyth County,

and now is the school that students want to go to.

He has provided the students with a supportive

atmosphere that they can blossom in.

Young wants the school’s students and

faculty to be proud of Central and to love

coming to the school. His love for the school is

greatly reflected on all of the wonderful things

he has accomplished alongside his fellow

teachers and school staff.

Megan Hilton is a senior at Forsyth Central High

School.


MY FORSYTH | HOUSES OF WORSHIP

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Eastgate Church

2820 Brookwood Road

O: 770.888.8852

Sunday Morning Worship Times:

9:15 & 11:15am

Pastors: Ron & Charla Nelson

http://eastgatechurch.org

Browns Bridge Church


678.965.8000

Pastor - Andy Stanley

Services- 9am, 11am, 4:30pm

http://brownsbridge.org/

BAPTIST

Antioch Baptist Church

2465 Antioch Road

O: 770.887.6900

Sunday School: 10am

Sunday Service: 11am and 6pm

AWANA: Sunday at 6pm

Wednesday Bible Study: 7pm

Pastor: Travis Bridgeman

www.welcometoantioch.org

Berean Baptist Church

7110 Majors Road | 770-889-1302

Sunday Worship Service: 11:00am

Classes for all ages: 10:00am

Evening Service: 6:00pm

Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00pm

Children’s Clubs: 7:00pm

Bob Baines, Pastor

www.bbc-cares.org

Cumming Baptist Church

115 Church Street | 770.205.6699

Worship times:

Sunday School - 9:30am

Meet & Greet: 10:45am

Worship Service: 11:00 am

Sr. Pastor - Jamie Archer

www.cummingbaptist.net

First Baptist Cumming

1597 Sawnee Drive | 770.887.2428

Sunday Services: 9:30am

Contemporary Worship Service &

Bible Fellowship Groups 11am

Traditional Worship Service &

Bible Fellowship Groups

Wednesday: 6:15pm AWANA

Pastor: Dr. Bob Jolly

www.firstbaptistcumming.org

First Redeemer Church

2100 Peachtree Pkwy. | 678.513.9400

Sunday Services:

9:15am – Contemporary Service

(Auditorium)

10:45am – Blended Service (Auditorium)

9:00am & 10:45am; 6:30pm Bible

Fellowship

www.firstredeemer.org

Greater Heights Baptist Church

3790 Post Road | 770.887.4802

Sunday School: 10am

Sunday Worship: 11am

Sunday Evening: 5pm

Wednesday Evening & AWANA: 7pm

Pastor: Chris Grinstea

www.ghbcc.org

Longstreet Baptist Church

6868 Campground Road

770.889.1959

Sunday School: 10am

Worship Service: 11am

Wednesday night adult and youth

activities

www.longstreetchurch.com

North Lanier Baptist Church

829 Atlanta Highway | 770.781.5433

Bible Studies: 9:00am and 10:30am

Celebration Worship Service: 11am

(main auditorium)

Hispanic Service: 10:30am

Activities Center

Refuge Baptist Church

3525 Pilgrim Mill Road

678.807.7746

Sunday Bible Study: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m., 6 p.m.

Wednesday Prayer Service: 7 p.m.

www.refugebaptistchurch.org

EPISCOPAL

St. Columba’s Church


770.888.4464

Wednesday Services: 6:30 pm

Saturday Service 5:30 pm

Sunday Service: 7:45, 9 & 11:15am

Rector: Father Tripp Norris

Curate: Father Daron Vroon

www.saintcolumba.net

The Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit

724 Pilgrim Mill Road | 770.887.8190

Services: Thursday 12 noon

Sunday: 8:30 and 10:45 am

Rector: Keith Oglesby

www.ecohs.net

GREEK ORTHODOX

Saint Raphael, Nicholas, and

Irene Greek Orthodox Church

3074 Bethelview Rd., 770.781.5250

Divine Liturgy every Sunday at 10 AM

Pastor: Fr. Barnabas Powell

www.stsrni.org

JEWISH

The Chabad of Forsyth

795 Brannon Rd

Cumming Ga 30041

404-594-2092

Rabbi Levi Mentz

www.jewishforsyth.com

LUTHERAN

Living Faith Lutheran Church, LCMS

1171 Atlanta Highway | 770.887.0184

Sunday School: 9:00am (all ages)

Sun. Worship: 10:15am, 12:30pm (Korean)

Wednesday Evening Fellowship

Meal: 6:00pm | Bible Study: 7:00pm (all ages)

Bible Study: 7:00pm (all ages)

Pastor Tim Droegemueller

www.livingfaithlutheran.com

facebook/livingfaithlutheranchurch

Christ The King Lutheran Church

(Evangelical Lutheran Church In America)

1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road

O: 770.889.5328 | www.ctklutheran.com

Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 am

(Blended) 11:00 am (Traditional)

Discipleship Hour: 9:45 am

(Sunday School)

OTHER

Alpharetta Seventh-day

Adventist Church

375 Fowler Rd.

Alpharetta, GA 30004

678-778-1778

www.alpharettasda.com

Baha’is of Forsyth County

1-800-22-UNITE

www.forsythbahais.org

www.ghbcc.org

Canvas Christian Church


770-887-5542

Pastor Stan Percival

www.canvaschristian.org

Crossroads Church of the Nazarene

6160 Southard Trace | 678.807.9392

Sunday School: 10am

Worship Service: 11am

www.mycrossroadschurch.net

Castle Christian Church

3149 Old Atlanta Rd. | 678.648.5248

Sunday Worship: 10am

Wednesday Bible Study: 7pm

Senior Minister: Jason Rodenbeck

jason@castlechristian.com

www.castlechristianchurch.com

Family By Faith Worship Center

4805 Atlanta Highway

678.230.4800 Midway

Elementary School, Nursery available)

Small Groups: 9:30am | Worship: 10:30am

Pastor: Randy Grimes

www.familybyfaith.com

The Church of Jesus Christ

of Latter Day Saints

510 Brannon Road | 678.455.5290

(Hall Phone)

Worship Service: 9am, 11:30am & 2pm

LifePoint Christian Church


Sunday Small Groups: 9:00am

Sunday Service: 10:30am

Childcare available

Pastor: Chris Stovall

www.lifepoint.org

NewSong Community Church

433 Canton Road, Suite 306

770.888.5212

(Located across from Ingles, behind

the National Guard in Building 300)


Pastor Case Koolhaas

www.newsongweb.org

Rameshori Buddhist Center

130 Allen Road, Unit B

404.255.1585

PRESBYTERIAN

Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian

Church

7620 Lanier Drive | 770.887.6801

Sunday School: 9:45am (all ages)

Sunday Worship Service: 11am

(Traditional) Childcare available

Pastor: John S. Martin

www.deercreekshores.org

email: dcspres@comcast.net

Chalcedon Presbyterian Church


770.205.9390

www.chalcedon.org | www.rpcus.com

Sunday Worship: 11:00am

Pastor Tim Price

Parkway Presbyterian Church

5830 Bethelview Rd. 678.889.8694

Sunday: 8:45 am Traditional Worship

11:00 am Contemporary Worship

Pastor Mike Austin

www.parkwaychurch.org

Providence Presbyterian Church

(Meeting at) 410 Pilgrim Mill Rd.

770-880-6985

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Childcare available

Pastor: Kevin L. Medcalf

www.toglorifygod.org

The Vine Community Church

4655 Bethelview Rd. | 678.990.9395

Sunday Services: 9 & 10:45am

Wednesday: Middle and High

School youth meet at 7:15 – 8:30pm

Jon Adams, Pastor

www.thevinecommunitychurch.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

Church of Good Shepherd

3740 Holtzclaw Road | 770.887.9861

Mass: Saturday Vigil: 5pm,

Sundays:,7:30, 9 &

10:30am & 12 noon; 5:30pm,

Spanish Mass:

1:30pm, Weekdays: 9am

Father Frank, Pastor

www.goodshepherdcumming.com

St. Brendan the Navigator

Catholic Church

4633 Shiloh Road | 770.205.7969

Daily Mass: Mon. – Sat.: 8:30 am

Tuesday, Thurs. & Fri.: 6:00 pm

Wednesday: 7:00 pm (en Español)

Saturday Vigil Masses: 5:00 pm &

7:00 pm (en Español)

www.StBrendansATL.com

54 MYFORSYTH.COM MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME VOLUME VI | ISSUE IX | ISSUE 10 4

The First 15 Challenge

A challenge.

By Maria I. Morgan

What started out as a challenge in a course I teach,

has become part of my morning routine. Instead of rushing into the day’s work, I take the

first 15 minutes after I wake up to be still, pray, and write down three things for which I’m

thankful. (Who says teachers can’t learn right along with their students, right?)

This simple practice has been transformational.

Taking time to think about all God’s blessings,

shifts my focus from self and all that needs to

be done, to His goodness. I’m reminded that

He gives me exactly what I need. And He gives

it to me at the right time. I can trust Him.

Gratitude follows.

I notice the same thing in the life of the

Psalmist David. Take a look at what he says:

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my

heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore

my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song

will I praise him. (Psalm 28:7; KJV)

Do you see the progression? David didn’t

have to depend solely on his ability as a warrior,

or his armor for protection. David recognized

it was the Lord that gave him power to endure,

as well as safety every day. As a result, he was

full of joy and praised God.

A choice

Truth is, I don’t always choose an attitude

of thankfulness. My husband and I have

been considering downsizing – we’d like a

smaller yard. The more I focus on finding the

perfect house and property, the fewer options

seem to be available. It doesn’t take long for

discouragement and discontent to set in. I

have to make a choice: continue trying to force

things to happen my way or be content with

what we already have and wait on God’s timing.

Your turn

What about you? Are you trying to do things

your way? Feeling discontent? I encourage

you to take the First 15 Challenge – for the

next 30 days, make a point to spend the first 15

minutes of your day in prayer and record three

things you’re thankful for.

When we choose an attitude of gratefulness,

the Lord blesses with peace and contentment

only He can give.

Can I pray for you?

Heavenly Father, thank you for who you are.

You see the future and know what is best for

me. Remind me of your faithfulness. Help me

trust you and choose an attitude of thankfulness

today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

*For more information about the 5-week, Bible-based,

Transforming Your Thinking Course: http://www.

mariaimorgan.com/transforming-your-thinking/


MY FORSYTH | HOUSES OF WORSHIP // CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

UNITED METHODIST

Bethelview United Methodist

Church

4525 Bethelview Rd. | 770.887.4888

Sunday School: 9:15am


(child care available)

Check website for Bible study classes

Pastor: Rev. Mark LaRocca-Pitts

www.bethelview.net

Creekside United Methodist Church


770.888.8449

Sunday Worship:

8:30am (Traditions-in Chapel)

9:30 & 11am (Contemporary -

in Worship Center)

Kidz Church: 9:30 & 11am

Bible Studies: 9:30 & 11am

www.creekside.nett

Cumming First United Methodist

Church

770 Canton Highway | 770.887.2900

Sunday Services: 8:45 & 11am

(Traditional)

Worship Services:

9:51am (Contemporary)

1:30pm ( Hispanic/Latino en Español)

9am (Lake Service (May-August)

Lanier United Methodist Church

1979 Buford Highway | 770.887.0615

Sunday Traditional Service: 8:45am

Sunday School: 10am

Sunday Contemporary Praise

Service: 11am

(Nursery available for both services)

Ted Miller, Pastor

www.lanierumc.org

Midway United Methodist Church

5025 Atlanta Hwy. | 770.475.5230

Sunday: 8:30am – Historic Chapel

(Traditional)

Sunday: 9:45am – Sanctuary worship

Sunday: 9:45am – “BLAST”

Kids’ worship

Sunday: 11:00am – Sanctuary worship

www.midwayumc.org

Piedmont United Methodist Church

1170 Dahlonega Highway

770.887.0770

Bible Study: 10am & 5pm

Traditional Service: 11am

www.PiedmontUMC@bellsouth.net

CLUBS &

ORGANIZATIONS

BUSINESS NETWORKING

Central Forsyth Leads Group

Meeting: 2nd & 4th Tues: 11am—1pm

Location: The Columns at Pilgrim,

Mill Apartments

Contact: Nancy Wright

770.886.0500 or

nancyw@ecigroups.com

Info: No fees. Open to all

Forsyth Network for Business

Professionals

Meeting: Thur: 11:30am – 12:30pm

Location:

Jim’N Nick’s at The Collection

3180 Ronald Reagan Blvd

Contact: David Fountain

770-627-2121

www.fn4bp.org

The Inspiration Network of

Cumming

Meeting: 3rd Wed: 7 – 8:30pm

Location: The Nurturing Nook,


Contact: Leanne Temple

678.965.5969

Kiwanis Club of Cumming

Meeting: Wednesdays 12pm – 1pm

Location: Golden Coral

2025 Marketplace BLVD

Cumming GA 30041

www.cummingkiwanis.org

Member Power Networking Lunch

Meeting: Every Tues. at 12 Noon

Location: Various chamber member

restaurants

Contact: 770.887.6461

www.cummingforsythchamber.org

Info: $15 for members &

$30 for non-members

South Forsyth Leads Group

Meeting: 2nd & 4th Wed: 11:30am

(No fees)

Location: Starbucks-141 & Ronald

Reagan

John’s Creek, 435 Peachtree Pkwy.

Cumming, GA 30041

Contact: Robin Grier | 770.887.2772

rgrier@harborfs.com

Women Who Mean Business

Meeting: 1st Tues. Registration:

7:30am

Location: Cumming-Forsyth County

Chamber of Commerce

Event’s Facility, 513 W. Maple Street

Contact: 770.887.6461

Info: Free for members, $30 for nonmembers

Register online at

cummingforsythchamber.org.

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Health Center (CHC)

Serving the medical needs of North

Georgia since 1979.

Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement

Fund, Inc.

Contact: 770.886.5419

www.savethehorses.org

Humane Society of Forsyth County

No-Kill Shelter

Location: 4440 Keith Bridge Road

Contact: 770.887.6480

Info: Non-profit, no-kill shelter for

cats/dogs.

www. forsythpets.org

There’s Hope for the Hungry

Contact: 678.513.9400

Info: Non-profit organization

partnering with churches across

North Georgia to feed those in need.

www.thereshope.org

Rotary Club of South Forsyth

Meeting: Wed: 12:15pm

Location: Forsyth Conference

Center

3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd

www.southforsythrotaryclub.org

Piecemakers Quilt Guild

Meeting: 2nd Tues, 4th Tues is

“sewcialbee”

(community quilts, classes or just

getting together)

Location:

Christ the King, Lutheran Church

1125 Bettis-Tribble Gap Road,

Cumming

www.piecemakersga.netw

The Place of Forsyth County

Location: 2550 The Place Circle

Contact: 770-887-1098

Info: Non-profit, serving the Forsyth

community with financial emergency

assistance, clothing, food and many

additional support services.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Cumming

Meeting: Meets four times daily

Location: Ingles Shopping Center

at 432 Canton Highway

(Hwy 20) Second suite on far left.

24/7 Line: 770.886.0696

Info: Group of Alcoholics

Anonymous located

in Forsyth County

www.aacummingga.org

Frontotemporal Degeneration

(FTD) Caregiver Support Group

First Wednesday of each month

7:00pm

Northside Forsyth Hospital

1200 Northside Forsyth Dr

1400 Building, Bennett Classroom B

Contact: Sharonhall419@yahoo.com

Holistic Moms Network –

Forsyth County

Monthly meetings with

informational speakers,

yoga group, play groups

Meeting: 2nd Tues: 6:30pm

Location: Land of a Thousand

Post Road, Cumming

Contact: Ann Linke

parkway-chruch.org

holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com

www.holisticmoms.org

Labrador Friends of the South, Inc.

Location: PO Box 933, Cumming

Contact: labfriendinfo@gmail.com

www.labradorfriends.com

Moms Club of Cumming – North

Monthly meetings with

informational

speakers, park play days, holiday

parties, fieldtrips, playgroups and a

monthly MOMS Night Out.

Contact:

momscummingnorth@yahoo.com

www. momsclub.org

Moms Club of Cumming –

Southwest

Meeting: Last Tues. of each month

Contact: www.momsclub.org

NAMI Forsyth Dawson Lumpkin

Meeting: 2nd & 4th Thursday 6:45

pm - 8:15 pm (support meetings for

consumers and family members)

Location: Forsyth County Senior

Center, 595 Dahlonega Hwy,

Cumming, Ga. 30040

Educational meeting:

3rd Tuesday 7 pm

Location: United Way of Forsyth

County, 240 Elm Str., Cumming, Ga.

30040

Contact: namifdlga@gmail.com

Website: www.namifdl.org

Single Mom Meeting

Connect with other single

moms, learn about paths to

higher education and get links to

community resources. Light dinner

provided and free on-site childcare/

homework help provided.

Meeting: 2nd Thurs: 6:30pm

ocation: 210 Dahlonega St., Suite

203, Cumming

Contact: Valerie Daniel Faith’s

House, Inc.

770.205.6311

www.faithshouseinc.org

SMART Recovery

Meeting: Every Tues: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Professional Recovery

Counseling, LLC.

107 W. Courthouse Sq., Suite 274

www.smartrecovery.org


The Mission of Family Haven

is to provide comprehensive services to individuals and their children who have experienced family violence,

to educate and train the community on the issue of family violence/sexual assault, to increase self-sufficiency

and to reduce recidivism. Our services are free of charge to all victims of domestic violence regardless of age,

sex, race, and creed, marital and socioeconomic status.

FAMILY HAVEN BY THE NUMBERS

30

YEARS OF

SERVICE

FAMILY HAVEN

WAS FOUNDED

calls received through

9,125 crisis line in a year

21 SHELTER BEDS

12 TRANSITIONAL

HOUSING BEDS

11

726

848

Forsyth County Schools

served through Date Strong

students served through

Date Strong

Victims served through shelter,

counseling, advocacy,

and support groups

CRISIS LINE

90

365

500

90- Days a client can stay

in shelter

365- Days a client can stay

in transitional housing

adults and children served

through community

programming

1,500 Approximate # of rolls of

paper towels needed a year in shelter

8,000 Approximate # of rolls of

toilet paper needed in shelter in a year

$65

Cost to support a single

woman for 1 night in

shelter

$185

Cost to support a family

of 3 in shelter for 1 night

$5,850

Cost to support a single woman in shelter for 90 days

$16,650

Cost to support a family of 3 in shelter for 90 days

forsythcountyfamilyhaven.info


The Country Preacher

The seasons have a wonderful way

of educating us about God’s desire

for order in His creation. “God is

not the author of confusion, but of peace”,

I Corinthians 14:33. Animals grow their

winter coats, squirrels prepare their meals

for the cold long days ahead while plants

scatter seeds that will awaken to the gentle

rains of spring. Even after the effects of

sin on the earth, the evidence of God’s hand

is left on the land. It is magnificent! “He

created it not in vain, He formed it to be

inhabited”, Isaiah 45:18. Is it an accident

that the lake’s water fowl have necks of

different lengths so they do not compete for

the same food or that the horse has a long

nose to keep his eyes out of the grass? The

answer to “which came first, the chicken or

the egg?” is not the tadpole! I wonder if the

first trees had rings, a sign of age, the day

they were created?

God meant for man to dwell in an

organized society. Government is as much

the plan of God as the seeds which produce

the spring plants. “By me kings reign, and

princes decree justice.”, Proverbs 8:15.

By Rev. David Hill

Governments are endowed by Him with

the right to judge wrong, reward good and

even raise taxes or tribute (Romans 13:1-

7, 6). God rejected the unity of nations

at the tower of Babel but He has planned

harmony for the world’s people and its

nations. America’s turmoil will not end until

its leadership honors Biblical principles.

Blessings are withheld from “all the nations

that forget God”, Psalm 9:17.

The book of Proverbs contains

Divinely inspired motherly advice to a

son who is becoming the ruler, Proverbs

31:1, 1:1-7. You will find this advice

interesting:

(1) Rulers who listen to the dishonest will

find themselves surrounded by the

wicked (Prov. 25:5, 29:12).

(2) Treating the rich or powerful and the

poor unequally violates God’s standard

of fairness (Prov. 24:23, 11:1 - scales

symbolize justice).

(3) Bribes and unfair influences will destroy

a nation (Prov. 29:4).

(4) Truth is the foundation for a strong

nation and lies are unbecoming

leadership (Prov. 20:28, 17:7).

(5) Honorable leadership searches out the

truth (Prov. 25:2).

(6) A lack of wisdom and experience will

result in troubled lives for a nation’s

people (Prov. 8:14-16, 28:2, 29:2).

(7) The answers to our nation’s strength and

prosperity, at all levels of government, is

still the pattern that is God’s plan as

much as are spring flowers

(Prov. 16:9, 20:24).

The Divine plan for government is just

“good horse sense” on the highest level. The

person who thinks that higher education

is superior to Biblical principles is like

someone who reads about horses and soon

learns their knowledge has little to do with

what happens when they put their foot in

the stirrup. As a nation we’ve discovered

truth, fairness, justice and character have

not been the practice of our government

leaders. Isn’t it time we looked in the Bible

for answers that have solved our problems

and made us strong in the past? “If the

foundations be destroyed, what can the

righteous do?”, Psalm 11:3.





A

DVERTISER DIRECTORY

AUTOMOTIVE/CAR REPAIR

SERVICES

Christian Brothers Automotive -pg. 47

470-253-7376 | www.cbac.com/cumming

BREW PUB/TAPROOM

Cherry Street Brewing Co-op – pg. 26

770-205-5512 | www.cherrystreetvickery.com

CYBER SECURITY/

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Critical Path Security – pg. 52

770-224-6482 | www.criticalpathsscurity.com

DANCE ACADEMY/

INSTRUCTION

Cumming Dance Academy – pg. 31

770-781-4922 | www.CummingDanceAcademy.com

DENTIST

North Georgia Smiles –pg. 66

678-648-7311 | www.northgeorgiasmiles.com

EMBROIDERY

Amigo Embroidery – pg. 59

404-216-5740 | www.amioembroidery.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Arseneau Advisory Group – pg. 21

470-839-9001 | www.arseneauadvisory.com

HEATING/VENTILATION/AIR

CONDITIONING

Shelnutt HVAC – pg. 43

706-265-5854 | www.shelnutthvac.com

HOBBY/ROBOTICS

Atlanta Hobby – pg. 7

678-513-4450 | www.atlantahoby.com

JEWELER/JEWELRY

STORE

Gems In Art – Inside Front Cover

770-844-8005 | www.gemsinart.com

Lance’s Jewelry –Back Cover

770-781-5500 | www.lancesjewelry.com

MASSAGE/YOGA/

WELLNESS

Bliss Mamma Wellness – pg. 45

770-722-2711 | www.blissmammawellness.com

PAINT & FLOORING

Gregory’s Paint & Flooring – pg. 15

770-887-1363 Cumming | 770-476-9651 Johns Creek

www.gregoryspaintandfloowing.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Adam Pendleton Photography – pg. 61

678-208-7077 | www.adampendleton.com

PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL

SERVICES

Children’s at Forsyth – pg. 3

404-785-3100 | www.choa.com/urgentcare

Modern OBGYN – pg. 39

404-446-2496 | www.reyesobgyn.com

Narendra Singh, MD – pg. 37

Atlanta Heart Specialists

678-679-6800; 770-622-1622 | www.heartdrsingh.com

North Atlanta Dermatology – pg. 41

770-814-8222 | www.naderm.com

Obstetrics & Gynecology of Atlanta – pg. 41

404-252-1137 | www.obgynofatlanta.com

The Southern Skin & Beauty Bar – pg. 63

770-284-8763 | www.southernskinandbeauty.com

REAL ESTATE

Hello Pam Evans Real Estate – pg. 13

678-778-6551 | www.hellopamevans.com

The Dinsmore Team – pg. 65

770-712-7789 | www.dinsmoreteam.com

RESTAURANTS /FOOD

SERVICES/CATERING

Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant – pg. 26

770-475-9100 | www.casanuovarestaurant.com

CSB Home of Rick Tanner’s – pg. 5

770-205-5512 | www.cherrystreetvickery.com

Lenny’s Subs – pg. 64

678-947-0336 | Fax orders: 678-947-5343

Palapa’s Bar and Grill – pg. 27, 29

770-889-1002 | www.palapasbargrill.com

Tam’s Backstage – pg. 25

678-455-8310 | www.tamsbackstage.com

Tam’s Tupelo– pg. 25

470-839-2024 | www.tamstupelo.com

TRANSPORTATION/

NON-EMERGENCY

ABW MedTrans Solutions – pg. 64

678-567-6644

WASTE DISPOSAL/RECYCLING

Advanced Disposal – Inside Back Cover

www.advanceddisposal.com





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