My Forsyth Magazine Nov/Dec 2020

CONTENTS
VOLUME X • ISSUE 3
34
28
COVER STORY
28 HOME GROWN AND PROUD
FEATURES
16 FINANCIAL SCAMS
43 WHEN ‘SAFE’ IS TOO SAFE
HOME AND LIFE
12 Buying in a Seller’s Market:
How to Make it Work
14 The Questions You Should Ask
a Lawyer but NEVER do
18 Six Ways to Invest in Yourself
20 Anecdotes and Advice
24 Decking The Halls
33 Creating Connections
through Conversations
42 You are a Leader
26
FORSYTH FOODIE
26 A Passion for Baking
HEALTH & WELLNESS
34 Winter Skin
36 Weight and Pain
37 Avoid Excessive Screen Time
38 Revisiting Inflammation in the
COVID World
40 Becoming Aware of Breast Cancer
48 10 Tips for the Healthiest,
Happiest School Year
BUSINESS
32 Forsyth County Chamber of
Commerce News
50 Continued Support for
Healthcare Workers
58 Virtual is Now Reality:
Time to Improve Connectivity
FAITH
52 Time Well-Spent
48
BURGESS MUSINGS
56 No More Independent Auto
Repair Shops
IN EVERY ISSUE
10 News Around Forsyth
22 Book Review: A Complete Guide
to Godly Wisdom
By Richard Van Yperen
54 The Country Preacher
“DON’T MISS A THING”
WE’RE MOBILE...
myforsythmag.com

CONTRIBUTORS
VOLUME X • ISSUE 3
MY FORSYTH
PUBLISHER
Market Complete LLC
Larry Brown is a retired
journalist. Larry is a member
of the Sawnee-Cumming
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.
Ava Clavijo is a student
at Forsyth Central. She
may be reached at
AvaClavijo@gmail.com.
julie@marketcomplete.com
678.614.8583
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Samantha Angeli
samantha.angeli74@gmail.com
770.310.4486
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adam Pendleton
678.208.7077 • www.adampendleton.com
Pam Evans is an
Associate Broker with
Century 21 Results. She
may be reached at
678-778-6551.
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, a long-time
Cumming resident, may
be reached at davidkhill@
comcast.net. A retired
preacher, Hill lives in North
Carolina where he is enjoying
spending time with his
beloved grandchildren.
SPECIAL REPORTS/VIDEO
Rachel Bellett
703.888.6328
Michelle Hall
904.386.0417
WEB CONTENT STRATEGIST
Matt Coutu
matt@marketcomplete.com
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.
Tracy Ann Moore-Grant
has been practicing family
law since 2002. She's a
partner at Patterson Moore
Butler. She may be reached
at 770-889-0846.
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.
STAFF WRITER
Katielee Kaner
katielee.myforsyth@gmail.com
PRINTING AND MAILING SERVICES
Power Marketing & Printing
678.990.3618 • smccaffrey@powermp
Narendra Singh, MD,
FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA is the
Director of Clinical Research,
Atlanta Heart Specialists LLC,
Atlanta, GA.
He may be reached at
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.
Hannah Testa is 17 years old
and a student at West Forsyth
High School. She may
be reached at
hannah4change@gmail.com.
www.hannah4change.org.
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 2020
My Forsyth | www.myforsythmag.com
5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135
Cumming GA 30040
(p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511

My Eyewear
At the age of eight, my mother took me to see an ophthalmologist after
a vision test showed that I need some help with my vision. I remember
traveling to the main island, Puerto Rico, on a two-engine plane, along
with seven other islanders.
A beautiful three-story building along the financial district of Hato Rey
housed the office of the gentle smart man who would become my
ophthalmologist for a little over 18 years. He was tall, handsome, and
soft-spoken. I only saw him once a year, but by the way we chatted you
would think we spoke at least weekly.
I remember the caring way by which he would start moving pieces of
equipment close to my eyes in order to test my vision. At age eight I felt
a little worried as he would move things around – from the phoropter (one
of the basic tools used by optometrists to measure the refractive error
and determine the eyeglass numbers of the patient) to the tonometry
test (eye pressure check). The tool my ophthalmologist used was a little
scarry – it looked like a compass moving over my eyeball.
I find myself getting a new frame style every year – as if the frame
gives me the opportunity to look at things from a different point
of view, a new perspective if you will. Since my prescription has
not changed for over seven years, I can look at my glasses and
pick the right pair to use for the day – the occasion. It is a matter
of perspective.
The ability to consider things in relation to one another accurately and
fairly – that is what perspective is all about. With more maturity and
experience, it is said that one will gradually acquire perspective.
This year has provided us all with a lot of time to consider things,
relationships, and perspective. I hope the lessons learned are as
accurate as the glasses I wear every day to see things clearly.
Stay well!
Besides the instruments used, what I remember was the kindness of my
ophthalmologist. His outlook on life and the work he did. How ironic that
an eye doctor taught me about outlook, and perspective.
Every year since age eight I get my eyes checked. Glasses have been a
part of my life for a long time.
JULIE BRENNAN
Publisher
julie@marketcomplete.com

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 9

NEWS
AROUND FORSYTH
by Larry Brown
With a weighted GPA of 4.0, Reese is treasurer of the senior
class. She is a member of the National Honor Society, National
English Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, and she is a
high school ambassador. She is an AP Scholar with Distinction,
awarded from the College Board.
Active in community service, Reese volunteers with SAFFT, Meals by
Grace, and Church of the Good Shepard. She is founder and president
of the Family and Community Outreach Club, to help families in need
and inspire other to get involved in service to the community. She is
team captain of the Chattahoochee Gold Swim Club.
Reese’s will study to become an attorney. Her aspiration is to work
in the adoption field to help the most vulnerable in the community
so that every child can have a family.
Riya Manchanda, Sawnee-Cumming
Optimist Club 2020-2021
Star Student First Runner Up
Riya Manchanda was
first runner up in the
competition. She is a
senior at South Forsyth
High School with a
weighted GPA of 4.54.
Active at South, she is a
member of the National
Honor Society, Science
National Honor Society,
vice president of the
National English Honor
Society, vice president
of the Science Olympiad, project manger of the Beta Club, and
president of the South Forsyth Dance Company.
Reese Warta, Sawnee-Cumming
Optimist Club 2020-2021
Star Student
The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club honored Reese
Warta as the 2020-2021 Optimist Star Student, the
club’s version of student of the year. She is a senior at
Forsyth Central High School. The Optimist Star Student
Program recognizes outstanding high school students
who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership,
and good citizenship.
Riya is a believer and involved in volunteering: Sunrise Senior
Living, North Georgia Medical Center, North Fulton Community
Charities, free covid-19 tutoring, and co-chair of the Volunteen
Board at Wellstar Hospital. She is a research intern at Georgia
State University.
Riya’ career ambition is to become a physician in neurosurgery.
“Reese and Riya are aspiring and inspiring young ladies and models
of optimism," remarked Grady Howard, chairman of the club’s
star student committee. "They are well-rounded, talented, and
contribute to the community. They are the epitome of star students.”
10 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

West Forsyth High School
Wellness Center
by Larry Brown
Beth Mewborn, assistant administrator at West, said,
“West Forsyth High school focuses on creating a positive
and safe environment for all Wolverines, students and
faculty, by building relationships in order to engage
all students in rigorous and relevant learning. For the
2020-2021 school year, we are emphasizing mental,
physical, and nutritional health and wellness through
the establishment of our Wolverine Wellness Center.
It is a room where students and staff can participate
in activities to improve their health and wellness. This
space can be used for relaxation, finding a healthy snack,
mindfulness through movement, and for small group
wellness sessions. We are so grateful for the support of
the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club for helping make
this space and these initiatives happen at West. And
we cannot wait to see what the future will bring for our
Wolverines. Go West!”
“The Sawnee-Cumming Club’s focus this year is
childhood health and wellness,” Shacklett commented.
“This is our first step in that goal for 2020-2021.
Optimist club members know the importance of
Wolverine Wellness Center at West Forsyth High School.
The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club contributed $2,000 to support the West
Forsyth High School Wolverine Wellness Center. The wellness center promotes
nutritional, mental health, and physical wellness. The club donated $1,000, which
was matched by Optimist International, according to Janna Shacklett, club president
Optimist Janna Shacklett (second from right) presents a
check in the amount of $2,000 to West High School principle
Karl Mercer and Beth Mewborn.
helping kids have healthy food and physical fitness
available to them. Mental health is also an important
part of feeling well and balanced every day. We are
excited about supporting West Forsyth High School’s
wellness initiative by contributing to their wellness
center. We hope everyone will join our efforts and see
how we can continue to ‘Bring Out the Best in Kids,’ the
Optimist motto.”
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 11

Buying in a Seller’s Market:
By Pam Evans
If you are looking to Sell your home, now is the perfect time because Buyer demand currently outweighs the
number of homes available. Translation, we have low inventory in metro Atlanta. However, if you are at the other end
of the equation and are looking to Buy, it is best to understand how to effectively navigate the process so that you don’t
get caught in unnecessary bidding wars. Here are some suggestions:
TRUST YOUR REALTOR
I cannot stress this enough, and it is not because
I am a Realtor. It is because many Buyers do
not understand that the Seller, under most
circumstances, is the party who covers the
Brokerage fee, meaning it does not really cost
you anything to consult a recommended expert.
Why would you turn down the advice and
guidance of a professional who does this every
day? A good Realtor will guide you throughout
the entire process, which begins with:
• Meeting with you and understanding what
you are looking for based on your situation.
• Recommending good Lenders who can help
you get pre-approved for a mortgage and
show you things you can do to improve
your credit score, thereby earning you a
better interest rate.
• Provide guidance about our local market,
and show you properties that meet your
needs, and guide you about the pros or
cons about each.
BE READY TO LOOK
IMMEDIATELY WHEN A
PROPERTY BECOMES
AVAILABLE
In a competitive market where good properties
go quickly, ensure you are receiving “instant”
alerts, not just “daily” alerts. If something pops,
proceed to the next step.
PREPARING YOUR OFFER
If you know others are interested in the same
property you are, it is best to come out of the
Assuming a Seller will be willing to go back
and forth with you for the joy of negotiation is
a risk. Most Sellers do not really want to have
their home open to the world for longer than
they need to. So, make them want to go under
contract with you.
Helpful would be to know what is important
to the Seller. Are they looking for a quick
Closing, or do they need an extra few weeks?
sure you know your audience.
PRESENT YOURSELF AS A
SOLID BUYER
most likely to make it to the Closing table on
during the Due Diligence inspection period, and
the last thing you want to have happen is a Buyer
bailing on you. So, Sellers will select the most
your guessed it, Realtor.
Buyers will want to have all their ducks in a
row and present a buttoned up and compelling
lure a Seller (knowing they’ll not actually have
to pay that if the home doesn’t appraise) will be
ASK FOR A
CONSULTATION
Ask a few friends for some recommendations
and call a couple of Realtors. Have a
help you accomplish your goals. Everyone
knows a lot of people with a Real Estate
license. What will truly help you is a polished
professional who will listen, adapt, and give
excellent, truthful advice. Find someone you
click with and you will be at the Closing table
sooner rather than later.
Pam Evans is an Associate Broker/Realtor with Century 21 Results in Cumming and can be reached at 678-778-6551.
12 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 23

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 13

The Questions You Should
Ask a Lawyer but NEVER do
By Tracy Ann Moore-Grant
By Tracy Ann Moore-Grant
I have been practicing law for 18 years and I have been asked a lot of strange questions during
I have been practicing law for 18 years and I have been asked a lot of strange questions during
an initial consultation with a client. However, I have never been asked the RIGHT questions. When
an initial consultation with a client. However, I have never been asked the RIGHT questions. When
considering which attorney to hire for your legal matter, here are some questions you should be
considering which attorney to hire for your legal matter, here are some questions you should be
asking to get the answers that matter.
asking to get the answers that matter.
1.Will you be the primary attorney on But what you really need to be conveying to your breaks an hour into 10 sections (six minutes each)
my case?
attorney is what your financial budget is for a case. and attorney who charges $250 and hour will bill
1. Will you be the primary attorney on my
In some firms they have you do a consultation If you
case?
have a $2,000 budget
2.
and
Are
the work
my expectations
you are you $25
for
for
this
a five
case
minute
reasonable?
phone call. But if an
1.
with
Will
an experienced
you be the
“front
primary
man” attorney
attorney
to gain
on my asking case? to be done will cost 2. $10,000, Are my you expectations should attorney for breaks this case their reasonable?
hour into four segments of
your business and then you never hear from that know that on the front end. As You a client, do not it is want important to 15 to minutes express each, to your the attorney charge will what be you $62.50 would for like a
attorney man” attorney again. to For gain some your people, business this and may then not you receive never a hear bill for from legal that work As already the a result client, completed to it be is important in that your case. five to express minute But it is to phone also your important call. attorney to what get your would attorney’s like
man” matter attorney attorney to again. you. But to For gain if some you your are people, wanting business this to and may make then not sure matter you you never to cannot you. hear But afford, from if you that and are would the feedback not result have to on be asked your in your for, expected case. results. But it is Of also course, important no attorney to get your can attorney’s guarantee
attorney that wanting you again. to are make in For fact sure some hiring that people, you the are attorney this in may fact you hiring not met matter the attorney if to you you. had But you known if met you with,
are was outside feedback of your on budget. your expected Overall, results. in Of order course, to have no attorney an effective can guarantee attorney
wanting with, this is this an to important is make important sure question that question you to are ask. in to fact ask. hiring the attorney you met with, with a particular case. However, client relationship your lawyer it is important should be to able communicate to assess if
this is an important question to ask.
4.How do you bill for with your a time? particular case. However, and be clear your about lawyer your should expectations be able and to listen assess to if
2. Are my expectations for this case Lawyers typically earn their fee in three different your chosen counsel about practical solutions to
reasonable?
14 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE ways. 2One way is a contingent fee. Seen often your case. At our firm, Patterson Moore Butler, we
14 As MYFORSYTHMAG.COM a client, it is important to express VOLUME to your X | ISSUE with personal 2 injury cases, this means that if your offer both flat fee and hourly rates for our clients.
attorney what you would like the result to be in
your case. But it is also important to get your
attorney’s feedback on your expected results. Of
course, no attorney can guarantee any result in a
case and it is difficult to predict what any judge
may do with a particular case. However, your
lawyer should be able to assess if what you want
from the case is legally realistic or incredibly risky.
He or she should be able to weigh the pros and
cons for you to help you decide on how to proceed.
3. Do you think you can complete this
case within my budget?
Hand in hand with the question above, I often
get asked “How much is this going to cost me?”.
case is won or settled for a monetary amount,
the attorney will take a percentage of that award
at the end of the case. The second way is a flat
fee. With this type of payment, you pay the
attorney a flat rate for the entire case, regardless
of how much time they spend on your case. And
lastly is an attorney may bill hourly. Typically,
an attorney that bills hourly will also require a
retainer. But there are two important question
to ask an attorney who bills hourly. The first, is
whether they will bill two attorneys for the same
“time.” Meaning, if two attorneys come to your
mediation (maybe without your consent), are you
paying for both of them? The second, is how they
break down an hour. For example, if an attorney
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
14 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 15

FINANCIAL SCAMS
HOW SCAMS FOOL SMART PEOPLE
AND HOW TO AVOID BEING TAKEN
By Kurt Arseneau, Investment Advisor Representative, Registered Financial Consultant
I love to watch movies, just ask my wife! It really does not matter much what movie it may be. I just enjoy the 2-hour escape from
everything else. One of my favorite characters in a movie is P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman played by Hugh Jackman. If
you have not seen it, please do; the cinematography, choreography, and music are worth your time.
One of the quotes that stuck out to me when writing this article was when P.T. Barnum said, “There’s a sucker born every
minute.” The reality is that P.T. was a little off.
There were at least six people suckered out of money every minute in 2019. It can be easy to think that the suckers are just
really naïve folks. But the truth is anyone can get conned, even the smartest people. Take Warren Buffett in 2019, for example.
His company, Berkshire Hathaway, was allegedly taken for $340 million in an investment scam.
With the holiday season approaching it may be a good time to watch out for the various scams out there. The latest ploy of phone
scammers is asking the question “Can you hear me?” They are trying to get recordings of people saying “yes” and use them to
authorize fraudulent charges on people’s accounts. It is just one of many different phone scams that raked in at least $493 million
in 2019. In fact, even though we are living in the age of the Internet, three out of four money scams happen over the phone. The
average take for a successful phone scam is about $1,000. While you never know when the next call may be from a scammer, you
can easily avoid getting taken if you know what to look for and if you know what to do whenever you suspect a scam.
16 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 32

“It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you
into trouble. It’s what you know for sure
that just ain’t so.” Mark Twain
It can cloud our judgement and lead to hasty decisions. In critical situations,
at the essence of what Mark Twain said. And it is especially relevant to
money scams.
But why?
mark. Instead, take your time to consider new opportunities. If you seem to
take the caller at their word—ask questions. Contact the organization the caller
claimed to be from to double check what you have been told. Get advice from
someone who you trust that can balance your perspective and help you see the
details you may have missed.
What Multi-Billion Dollar Scams Look Like
1. Imposter Scams – Imposter scams involve someone posing as a person
government or tech support or a family member having an emergency. In
2019, they drained bank accounts of more than $667 million.
2. Identity Theft – About one in three Americans have been, or will be,
resulted in more than $540 million in losses. Protect yourself by shredding
sensitive information and checking your credit report routinely.
3. Shopping Scams – In 2019, more than $136 million was lost to shopping
scams. Avoid shopping scams by always checking out return/refund policies
before making a purchase. Pay by credit card, keep receipts, and carefully
review your credit card charges.
4. Job Opportunity Scams – These scams promise that you can work from
home, start your own business, become a mystery shopper, and more. No
matter the income opportunity, they all ask for money up front. In 2019, these
scams raked in about $85 million.
5. Prize Scams – You have just won…or did you? In 2019, Americans lost a
total of more than $121 million to lottery scams and sweepstakes scams.
Always ask the caller for a number to call them back on. Then look up the
company name and phone number to make sure it is legit.
Part of what we do with our clients is help them consider new opportunities and
honored to help any of you as well.
DO YOU THINK YOU'RE TOO
SMART TO BE SCAMMED?
About 4 out of 5 people say yes. Most also
believe they’re better than others at spotting
scams. Yet, scams work—and they’re more
prevalent and profitable than ever before.
In fact, every 15 seconds, someone’s getting
scammed.
Each year, that’s billions lost. Seniors alone
lose at least $2.9 billion a year to con artists.
And they aren’t even the most vulnerable
marks. Millennials are.
So, why are financial scams more rampant
and lucrative than ever before? Technology
and the Internet have been key. They’ve given
scammers a better smokescreen and a
global reach. They’ve also made it easier to
perpetrate mass fraud schemes.
Beyond having better tools, scammers also
have better prey these days. The uncertainties -
of the day have made it easier to manipulate
late and con people. After all, we’re naturally
averse to uncertainty. It scares us. It makes us
desperate for stability and impulsive when a
golden opportunity seems to arise.
That’s an ideal combination for scammers.
And it’s why financial fraud spiked during the
pandemic, just like it did during the Great
Recession of 2008.
That paints a dark picture, but it’s not all bad
news. If you know what modern cons look
like, you can easily spot and avoid them.
Sources: GetSafeOnline.org; NextGov.com; FTC.gov; Money.cnn.com;
FBI.gov; Experian.com; NCConsumer.org; Inc.com
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 17
VOLUME X | ISSUE 2 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 17

6 Ways to Invest in Yourself
By Berni Leonard
“Be patient with yourself. Self-growth is tender. It is holy ground. There’s no greater investment.”
- Steve Covey
Investing not only in yourself, but also in knowledge, selfcare, habits, mindset, growth, and blessings, will
always pay off. With these simple six steps, you will discover that the person you are destined to be, is what
you decide to be. Focusing on each of these subjects will lead you to become the best you can be.
BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT WHAT YOU READ AND LISTEN TO
Information in is information out. What you feed your mind with
1.
today will fuel your tomorrow. The best gift you can give yourself
is a guarded mind and heart. Ask yourself these questions: How much TV
do you watch? How much social media do you absorb daily? How many
hours do you spend on your phone daily? Does it engage you in a positive
or negative mindset? Set up guardrails to protect your thoughts and actions
by reading books and listening to podcasts that are uplifting, motivational,
and educational. By filtering your content intake, you will create meaningful
conversation and knowledge that will have a positive return.
MAKE SELF-CARE NON-NEGOTIABLE
Self-care looks different for each and every one of us. It promotes
2.
healthy relationships and overall wellness, both emotionally and
physically. Self-care can be the simple things, whether that be an exercising
routine, meal prepping, working out, drinking water, prioritizing sleep, or
a little weekend getaway. Self-care helps you learn from your mistakes and
transitions your mind to produce positive thoughts, actions, and habits. It
will give you more energy, confidence, and a positive outlook to get through
your daily agenda. Give yourself the gift of self-care—just starting with 15
minutes a day will make a priceless difference.
BUILD STRONG HABITS
Establish a morning routine each and every morning. Easier said
3. than done, but routine will bring a result of security and growth.
Have a plan for the week in the areas of health, finance, spirituality, relationships,
and career. It will be a great start to have consistency in your goals and build
confidence for the week. Don’t just think it—write it! Write down your wins.
This gesture gives you the insight and fuel to keep going; a perspective that you
can (and will) do this. Take the time to journal your successes. Watch how even
your small wins will turn into future growth and opportunities for work and life.
MINDSET: HAVE A SANCTUARY PLACE
It is just as important to have a clean and organized mind like it is
4. to have a clean and organized house. Imagine the satisfaction of
decluttering a room, lighting a candle, and playing soft music. We love simple
and comfortable pleasures—this can be the same way in our minds. You can
make your mind space a safe, secure, and special space. Our minds are a place
to get clarity - to reflect on the day and recharge our souls. To make your mind
a sanctuary, practice breathing and exhaling daily. Hold yourself accountable to
controlling your breathing and focusing on what is and not the what if. Eventually
the quietness and control will give you strength and purpose. Your relationships
will be better; stress levels will go down and your health may improve.
LEARN ONE NEW THING EVERY DAY
From the time we were small children and through our college years,
5. we were always encouraged to learn and grow in many ways we
would never have thought possible. As we reach adulthood, sometimes learning
is not in the forefront of our daily agenda. It is only through continuous growth
and learning that builds self-esteem, creates happiness and opens unexpected
doors. When you take the time to learn, prepare, and plan, you will be ready
when opportunities arise. If you are past the learning stage and have wisdom to
share, remember to mentor someone and share your knowledge. The best gift
you can give someone is leaving them better than you found them.
REMEMBER YOUR BLESSINGS
Looking at blessings that at times we take for granted can truly
6. open eyes, minds, and spirits. Life can change in blink: remember
to count your blessings, as they are unique to you and you alone. Reflecting on
what we have instead of what we do not have brings a humble and appreciative
outlook on life. Not only can we remember our blessings, but we can also be
a blessing. Blessings do not have to be miracles and extravagant, they can be
a simple: text to someone to let them know you love them, or forgive the one
in need, or spend an extra 30 minutes reading a book to your child. As you
give your blessings, not only will they get bigger and more meaningful, but
they will create an everlasting legacy that will continue on for many more
generations. You never know who you are impacting until they impact you.
Investing in yourself is not only in the best interest for
you, but also for others. Positivity and purpose are
contagious. Good things come from those who not only
think but do good. You are your own investment. When
will you prioritize yourself? It will not only improve your
life; it will improve the lives of those around you.
Berni Leonard is a beauty salon owner and coach. She
is passionate about adding value to the lives around
her, continuous growth and personal relationships.

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 19

INTERVIEW
setting. It was truly "car"thartic. However, upon
a second look, I realized it was not him. Then
it was embarrassing, but only my car window
knew that.
AMY: Your next book is also very
personal, "My Mother Has Alzheimer's
and My Dog Has Tapeworms: A
Caregiver's Tale." The book is a heartfelt
and humorous look at your experience
as a caregiver to your mother. May I ask
if the book was based on a journal that
you kept while you were caring for her?
R. LYNN: I didn't keep a journal per se, but if
we encountered a funny situation, like when my
mom wanted to tell someone that she pounded
the pavement, looking for a job (accounting)
in NY after college, but what she said was, "I
walked the streets of NY, if you know what I
mean," I jotted that down.
Anecdotes
AND
Advice
AMY: Of all the people in Forsyth County
to interview during this pandemic, I
thought of you because you have an
uncanny ability to see the humor in
almost every situation.
R. LYNN: A friend sent me a series of jokes
about people being so bored about being home
due to COVID-19, that they started to talk to
inanimate objects in their homes. One woman
said that the refrigerator told her to "chill out." I
added my own: "The coffee maker said I should
stay grounded," (I have tried) and the remote
control said, “I'll be doing things remotely.” It
was right.
AMY: Let's talk about your first book,
"What Patients Want: Anecdotes and
Advice," which honestly addresses
an academic audience and practicing
An interview with R. Lynn Barnett by Amy Lyle
practitioners about the experience of
being a patient. What compelled you to
write the book?
R. LYNN: My dog was diagnosed with cancer
around the same time I was. I sensed he was not
feeling well, and the vet said, "Bring him in." I had
to wait two weeks for my doctor's appointment,
and Mickey had to wait two minutes to see the
vet. I told my husband, "What's wrong with this
picture?" and he said, "You could write a book."
So, I did.
AMY: Was writing the book cathartic?
R. LYNN: Writing both books was cathartic.
In fact, in the "Patient" book, I wrote about a
time when I told off, through the car window, a
driver whom I had recognized as a doctor who
was quite rude to me in a non-medical, social
AMY: You describe beautifully that
Alzheimer's is "often unexpected and
unnerving, like a bad knock-knock joke."
Did you have any resources that were
helpful as you and your husband cared
for your mother?
R. LYNN: Although there were resources
available to us, it didn't really occur to me to
contact them, (www.alz.org, for example) until
close to the end. My husband and I often felt
like we were flying by the seat of our pants. We
learned that a strategy that might work with
some people, like putting a black piece of paper
by the door to discourage them from wandering,
might not work with everyone.
AMY: Creatively, what are you working
on now?
R. LYNN: I’m working on children's books,
they're about dogs, written in rhyme, like
Dr. Seuss and Mother Goose, for young
readers to either read themselves and/or
have someone read to/with them. They are a
work in progress, that is about all I can say.
I told my husband that since writing books
is so time-consuming, I would redirect my
attention to housekeeping, but I like writing
more than cleaning, so housework is a work in
progress too.
AMY: How can people contact you?
R. LYNN: My email is
rlynnbooks@gmail.com
20 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 21

BOOK REVIEW
A Complete Guide
to Godly Wisdom
By Richard Van Yperen
Review by Jacqueline Thompson Graves
So, first off, let me be completely honest. When I first received
this book, that word Complete in its title threw me a punch. This is
the complete guide to God’s wisdom? I mean, I don’t think even the
Bible itself would claim to be the complete guide, just what our tiny
minds can comprehend this side of Heaven. So I opened the book with
apprehension, read it with critical eyes.
The book searches the first nine Psalms for wisdom, seeking
instruction formatted as talks to “my son”. The Psalms writer is that
character we all know as the Wisest Man Ever, he who threatened to cut a
baby in half, thereby discovering which woman laying claim to the infant
was its true mother. “Don’t kill it!” one woman screamed. “Give it to her.
Let the baby live!” “No, cut it in half, that’s fair,” snarled woman #2, and
wise Solomon discerned the first woman who was concerned with the
baby’s health and future to be the real mom. It is this guru’s writings who
Van Yperen culls for his book’s content.
In the forward Van Yperen discusses his men’s study group who met
at 6:30am every Friday for years. They called themselves the “Wise Guys”
because they spent so much time reading and talking about Proverbs,
conversations that shaped the book.
Van Yperen’s background is in teaching and administration so his
book is well-written and presented in a format easy to read and use.
Often times, perhaps to save space, Bible study books give references
for Scripture passages, but don’t print out the text. They expect you to
have your Bible, reading it alongside the study guide. That is fine, but if
you just have your book and are depending upon your phone’s Bible app,
which doesn’t work for whatever reason, you might be expecting to work
on your Bible study, but can’t. I like that this guide incorporates the Bible
text into the teaching materials.
Each chapter offers questions for meditating or journaling. However,
the book’s best use may be in a group setting. There is an expanded set
of discussion questions at the back of the book (and I almost missed it)
to accompany each chapter’s teaching. Studying on your own is good;
sharing with and receiving insights from others is even better.
Van Yperen’s queries are thought-provoking, not always what you
expect. Consider this one: Read John 1:1-3. What are the similarities in
this New Testament passage compared with Proverbs 8:22-31?
I enjoyed the book and the study materials. Van Yperen is a local
author living here in Cumming, GA. Maybe you know him. (Maybe you
are one of the “Wise Guys”!) I do know this: you can consume a lot of
media these days whether via your smartphone, TV, computer or even
your watch, but chances are, none of what you see or read today is going
to make you wiser. It might make you madder or more depressed or give
you a giggle if you seek out stupid cat videos, but how much wisdom
have you gotten from your media input lately? I have been consciously
choosing to lessen my screen time and spend more time doing soulenriching
things—working and playing in the outdoors, reading,
meditating, even baking.
So, yes, I would recommend this book to you, especially if you are a
Christian looking for a Bible study guide (better yet, a group looking for a
new study to embark upon). I would also suggest Van Yperen take the word
Complete out of the title. A Guide to Godly Wisdom. Yep, that’s about right.
I have a signed copy of the book to give away. To
enter the drawing, visit my book review blog and
drop your name in the hat there. There is no cost
and the book will be shipped to you at no expense.
www.thebookbuffet.wordpress.com
A Complete Guide to Godly Wisdom by Richard Van Yperen
Published by Christian Faith Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-64458-574-0
Available at Amazon.com
Jacqueline Thompson Graves lives and writes in Cumming, GA
where she is currently reading a new book on the deck and has a
nice pot roast in the slow cooker. She invites you to engage at her
book review blog: www.thebookbuffet.wordpress.com
22 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 23

DECKING THE
Halls
By Lanada Chanel Duncan
While the Coronavirus has some feeling like changing their
plans to deck the halls this Christmas, it has left others
looking for low-risk and low-key ways to celebrate the fall
and winter holiday season at home.
But with many gatherings said to be smaller in size this year because
of friends and loved ones social distancing, the idea of cozying up home
to give it a relaxed feeling is spreading, and having a plan to create a safe,
but festive holiday look is essential and will do a lot to boost your mood.
If you have decided to be extra safe and go it alone this holiday, keep
your spirits lifted by adding a few simple decorative items to stir up an
appreciation of the seasons and feelings of delight and happiness.
Place small baskets of cinnamon and pinecones at entry ways or use
them as centerpieces to give your home that flirting Autumn fragrance.
Hang holly leaves around mirrors and draped bathroom hand towels to
remind you of the eternal joy and thankfulness of the holiday season.
Burn candles that release cozy scents of pine, firewood, or cookie dough
to stimulate your sense of smell. Tell your Alexa to play your cheerful
holiday playlist every night at 7pm to help you feel cheerful vibes or
winddown every evening.
But if you are planning to entertain a few guests, the outdoors serves
as a great backdrop for an evening dinner, and holiday lighting adds the
perfect mood to a cozy, festive event. But pandemic times call for safer
measures, so place disposable hand towels in restrooms for hand drying
and use holiday paper napkins and dinnerware for meals. For guests who
might get chilly while lounging on the lawn watching old holiday movies,
put out a few large baskets filled with freshly sanitized throw blankets.
And if the outdoors is not an option and you have to entertain inside,
bring the outdoors in by keeping windows and doors open, but first
accessorize them with hanging seasonal wreaths to add holiday flair.
Remember to arrange seating to allow ample space between attendees,
and you may need to provide separate dining areas to ensure spaces do
not get too crammed during social and mealtimes.
Knowing that you’ve done what you can to create a safe home
environment is important, but the real point of planning your home’s
holiday festive look is so you can just sit back and enjoy the seasons
-whether alone of with those you care about and love.
Lanada Chanel is the Principal Stylist with b.e. decors, an
interior design company that offers design, decor, and details
to evoke peaceful living & wellbeing.
Lanada Chanel Duncan, b.e. decors
678.951.9210
info@bedecors.com
www.bedecors.com
24 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 25

FORSYTH FOODIE
A Passion for Baking
Typically, the Forsyth Foodie reviews restaurants. This time,
we chose to write about an individual. Why? Because I tried
one of her cakes and simply loved it!
Lise Ode is someone who truly loves to bake. She teaches,
blogs and influences – about baking.
The cake that inspired this column is called Husband Cake.
The recipe is from the 1960s and was handed down from
Lise’ grandmother, an Alabama native.
“It’s such a delicious cake and unique because one of the
ingredients is so unusual - tomato soup!” Ode explained. “It’s
a spice Bundt cake with nuts, raisins and the most amazing
cream cheese fondant icing drizzled on top.”
Ode found the recipe in her
grandmother’s collection of
handwritten recipe cards and just
had to make it because of the name.
The recipe called for tomato soup as
one of the ingredients, which made
the recipe most intriguing to our
master baker.
“Sounds strange but the cake is very tasty! Especially the
icing. My grandmother called it a “cheese fondant icing”
which I thought was so interesting. She included an egg
yolk along with the cream cheese and sugar which gives it
a silky smooth texture and compliments the spice cake just
beautifully,” Ode added.
Ode is passionate about baking.
“I love to bake. It’s something
I have always enjoyed doing
as long as I can remember. I’m
also a graphic artist. It was my
official job for a long time. And
photography. I’ve always loved
taking photos. Documenting
life as I go. I’m a big fan of
scrapbooking,” Ode explained.
I’m not sure I will bake as much as
Ode does, but I will certainly try.
Happy Baking!
26 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

Recipe
FOR THE CAKE
• 3/4 cup shortening
(grandmother used Crisco)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup tomato soup
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3 cups cake flour
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
(or 2 teaspoons, if desired)
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon ginger (powdered, not fresh)
• 1 1/2 cups chopped nuts
(I used pecans and walnuts)
• 1 1/2 cups raisins
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the
cake flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon,
cloves, nutmeg and ginger. Set aside.
3. Measure shortening and sugar. Blend
together (I used an electric mixer). Add
eggs and mix well. Combine soup with
water and baking soda in a separate bowl
or large measuring cup. Add alternately
with the flour mixture. Stir in raisins and
nuts. Pour into prepared pan. Bake for
50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted
in middle comes out clean. Let cool. Turn
out onto cake plate and drizzle with cheese
fondant icing. Garnish with chopped nuts.
FOR THE CHEESE FONDANT ICING
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 7 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 12-cup
Bundt pan generously with shortening.
Really put on a thick-ish layer, getting into
all the nooks and crannies. Dust with about
2 tablespoons of flour, rolling all around the
pan to make sure every bit of shortening is
covered with the flour. This is an important
step as you don't want your cake to stick.
Set aside.
1. In a large bowl, blend cream cheese with
egg yolk with an electric mixer. With mixer
on low, gradually add sugar, then salt and
vanilla. Turn up to medium and beat for
30 seconds. Stir in cream until completely
combined (don't beat the cream because you
want an icing you can drizzle).
FOR GARNISH
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
NOTES
If you're concerned about using a raw egg, place
the egg yolk in a small pan on the stove. With
medium low heat, stir constantly for about 90
seconds. Do not stop stirring or you will have
scrambled eggs.
NUTRITION
Calories: 496kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein:
8g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol:
83mg | Sodium: 303mg | Potassium: 360mg
Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 406IU
Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 81mg | Iron: 1mg
For more recipes visit
www.momlovesbaking.com
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 27

COVER STORY
Home
Grown
AND PROUD
by Julie Brennan
There is something about the American
dream - that one where you are able
to get an education, build a career, and
become a business owner. It is even more
special when your business is located in
the same place where you grew up. That
dream is reality for brothers Justin and
Jacob Patterson, owners of Your Pie
Pizza. The brothers have three locations -
Cumming, Milton, and Roswell.
Raised in Cumming, the South Forsyth High
School graduates attended the University
of Georgia. After graduating and spending
a few years in the corporate world Justin
and Jacob decided it was time to look at
something that would allow them to be
entrepreneurs together, raise their families
where they felt comfortable doing so, and
that afforded them the opportunity to be
members of the business community that
saw them grow.
Continued on page 30
28 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 29

“When we started looking at different
business ideas, we researched numerous
opportunities,” explained Justin. “We
finally decided that Your Pie provided us
with all that we needed.” The brothers
purchased their first site in Roswell,
followed by opening a second location
in Milton.
The opportunity to open a location
in Cumming, their hometown, became
available in April 2019. There was no
hesitation on the part of the entrepreneurs
to do just that.
“The location was perfect. When
Justin and I were in middle and high
school the space was a CiCi’s Pizza. Our
sports teams would come here to eat after
games and we would all play pinball in the
old arcade room that is now actually our
office,” Jacob stated.
And so, the dream of owning a business
in the place the Patterson men called home
became a reality.
YOUR PIE
Pizza is, without a doubt, one of those tasty
treats that most of us enjoy. The perfect
dough, fresh tomatoes, cheese, and a
variety of toppings, baked together to create
a bundle of taste could easily be defined as
comfort food for many of us.
While attending college in Athens, the
Patterson brothers would often get pizza.
“The first Your Pie opened in Athens
and we used to eat there all the time. The
food was great, and we thought it was a
good business model,” Justin recalled.
THE YOUR PIE
DIFFERENCE
“We offer custom 10-inch pizzas, paninis, pastas,
and salads, while kids can opt for a 7-inch pizza,
drink and scoop of our gelato,” Jacob said. “In a
traditional pizza restaurant, you will be charged
per topping; at Your Pie, however, we let you build
your pizza with any toppings you like for one flat
price. For those who do not wish to build their
own entree, we also have a menu of Favorites. It’s a
great go-to when you’re feeling indecisive!”
Speedy service and low costs do not mean
that quality is compromised.
“We are often asked what sets us apart from
all other pizza places,” Jacob remarked. “Our
guests don’t sit waiting for busy servers. We are
quick-serve, fast-casual—perfect for families with
hungry children. You go through the make line,
“
At the end of the day, we offer
a quality product, built to the
guest’s needs, and quickly served
in a family-friendly environment!
”
30 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

choose your items, and we cook it in the brick oven for four to five minutes. Pair your entrée with
one of our local craft beers on draft or a glass of wine and you have a combo that can’t be beat!”
“We use homemade recipes, high-quality ingredients, hand-tossed dough and fresh
toppings.,” Justin assured. “All of our menu items, including our sauces, have traditional roots,
with a special Your Pie twist.”
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Being in business includes helping the communities we serve, and Jacob and Justin are no
strangers to lending a helping hand.
“We are honored to host fundraisers that help non-profit organizations in our areas,” Jacob
stated. “As corporate citizens we are here to help.”
No Longer Bound, The Place of Forsyth, schools and other community organizations have
been the beneficiaries of Your Pie’s fundraisers.
“When we heard of a local non-profit that needed some food for their residents, we were
delighted to help out,” Jacob stated. Over 15 Your Pie pizzas were delivered to the welcoming
arms of the residents.
TODAY’S YOUR PIE
“When COVID-19 made everyone change their way of doing business, we too adapted to the
changes needed to move forward,” Jacob explained. “We follow all guidelines and protocols
set-forth by the health department and the State of Georgia.”
Face masks for all employees, reduced seating capacity, frequent and thorough sanitizing
of all commonly touched surfaces and having hand sanitizer readily available to diners is
commonplace at Your Pie locations.
“Safety is paramount to all of us,” Jacob added.
For those who prefer to dine at home, all three Your Pie locations offer the convenience of
delivery and curbside pick-up.
“By using our rewards app, our guests earn loyalty points while quickly placing their
orders. And, they have the option of curbside pick-up or, for orders over $25, delivery via a
third party,” Justin explained.
Having families of their own, Jacob and Justin are committed to the health and wellness of
their employees and those that visit their stories.
“God has continued to provide for us, and we are confident that our stores will survive.
We are looking forward to some form of return to normalcy where consumer confidence
in dining-out returns and we can rekindle many of the community partnerships we have
developed in the past five years,” Justin stated.
The dedication that the Pattersons have to the well-being of all they served, coupled with
their resilience is without a doubt, the foundation by which success is simply inevitable.
YOUR PIE – CUMMING
655 Atlanta Road #607
Cumming, Georgia 30040
678-341-9023
Open Seven Days a Week
11:00 a.m.—9:00 p.m.
Order online at
yourpie.com.
YOUR PIE - ROSWELL
625 W Crossville Rd. #110
Roswell, GA 30075
770-993-7944
YOUR PIE - MILTON
2955 Bethany Bend, #300
Milton, Georgia 30004
470-210-5151
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 31

Forsyth County Chamber
BUSINESS NEWS
The Forsyth County Chamber and the University of North Georgia
(UNG) have joined forces to provide pro bono consultations to Forsyth
County businesses in a new initiative called Profs for FoCo.
Profs for FoCo aims to help business owners and their management
staff navigate the constant and changing challenges of doing business
in this time. The program matches a UNG Mike Cottrell College of
Business faculty member with a business leader for short consulting
appointments. These conversations aim to address each business’ most
critical needs—all at no charge.
At this time, more than twenty professors have signed on to the
program with areas of expertise ranging from digital communication to
small business financing.
“The Mike Cottrell College of Business is uniquely positioned to
serve as a resource for businesses in our region and beyond,” according
to Dr. Mary Gowan, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Dean of the College. “In fact,
in the midst of the uncertainty faced by so many for profit and not-forprofit
organizations around us, we believe that it is our responsibility to
share our expertise in ways that will help these organizations navigate
their way forward. Doing so creates a win-win situation for our region
and opens doors for further engagement with the college.”
UNG is one of Georgia’s largest public universities. With more than
100 programs of study, it was ranked one of the top 25 public universities
in the South by the U.S. News & World Report.
“Profs for FoCo clearly demonstrates the level of partnership that
exists between Forsyth County’s educational institutions and the private
business sector,” commented James McCoy, President & CEO of the
Forsyth County Chamber. “We are excited to elevate this partnership to
a new level with this program.”
For more information about the Profs for FoCo program and/
or to set up an appointment, please visit ww.profsforfoco.org
or e-mail the Forsyth County Chamber’s Vice President
of Community Engagement, Laura Stewart, at lstewart@
focochamber.org.
Chamber Leader Selected for National Economic
Recovery Fellowship
Laura Stewart, Vice President of Community Engagement at the Forsyth
County Chamber of Commerce, has been selected by the Association
of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) to study economic
recovery and resilience strategies with 41 other Chamber of Commerce
professionals from communities throughout the United States.
The Fellowship for Economic Recovery is an immersive executive
development program that provides Chamber of Commerce professionals
with education and tools to improve the post-COVID-19 pandemic
outcomes in the communities they serve.
“This is a tremendous honor for our community and our Chamber,”
said James McCoy, President and CEO of the Forsyth County Chamber
of Commerce. “Laura Stewart’s leadership has earned this national
recognition by our peers. The Chamber and Forsyth County are fortunate
to have her talent and skill working to build our local economy.”
Throughout the year-long Fellowship for Economic Recovery,
participants focus on addressing different aspects of economic recovery
from education and talent to economic development and entrepreneurship.
The curriculum will focus on strategies for building more equitable
economic outcomes and creating economies that work for everyone.
ACCE’s Fellowship for Economic Recovery is designed to help
Chambers refine their economic recovery goals and ultimately help the
business associations nationwide build replicable programs and processes.
Leaders selected to participate in the Fellowship represent urban and rural
communities from 24 states.
The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, founded in
1914, serves more than 7,500 chamber of commerce professionals, and
1,300 chambers of commerce or similar organizations, around the world.
Learn more about the organization by visiting www.ACCE.org.
32 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

Creating Connections through
Conversations
Positivity, optimism, and inspiration, three key words that
most of us strive to hold on to, particularly as time passes.
“There’s too much negativity, opinions and divisiveness in the world right
now," stated Monique Honaman. “People are getting tired of doing jig saw
puzzles and paint by numbers!”
“These cards are the perfect game for getting to know your neighbors,
your small groups, your families … and perfect for that socially-distanced
neighborhood happy hour in the cul-de-sac!” Honaman added.
Along with her husband Justin, Monique created Contender Brands.
“Our mission is to develop and cultivate ideas that bring simplicity, joy
and laughter to others. We operate best with many proverbial balls in the
air – none of which may be dropped and all of which are made of glass,”
Monique explained.
The dynamic duo has created a range of conversational games for all ages.
“Many people think of things they would like to try or do,” added Justin. “We
aren’t afraid of stepping off the ledge and flying out of the nest. When we feel
that stirring rumble of a new idea, we pursue it. Whether it is starting a business,
writing a book, or developing the next consumer product, we are all in!”
Perhaps having 150 unique questions in every game may be just what we
all need to create a little Spark! in our lives.
THE ULTIMATE GET-TO-KNOW-YOU CARD GAMES
Spark! Card games are filled with “Get-to-know-you”
questions that drive great discussions and dialogue.
• Brew-Aha: Blab. Rant. Explain. Whine.
• Cocktail Farty: Have a blow-out party with Cocktail Farty!
• KegO’Cards: Tap in. Talk out.
• KIC-Start: Kids in Conversation
(teaching kids the art of conversational curiosity)
• Kiss’N’Cards: Kiss? Or Dismiss!
• Spark!: Creating Connections Through Conversation
• Whine Barrel: Whining never felt so good!
770.855.7225
contenderbrands.com
monique@contenderbrands.com

Winter Skin
By Dr. Weston Waxweiler
With the days getting shorter and the
daily temperatures starting to drop, it is
evident that the fall and winter seasons
are upon us. Below are some general tips to
keep your skin healthy during this time, as well as
exploring some cosmetic treatments for possible
holiday gifts this season.
Along with cooler temperatures, some
unfortunate skin problems arise. Dry winter air,
from both the cold outside and the heater running
inside, can wreak havoc on skin. With these tips,
you can better prepare yourself and keep your skin
healthy all winter long.
1. Humidifiers help! Heaters naturally desiccate, or dry out, our
inside air. This can impair our natural skin barrier by eventually
causing dryness and cracking in our skin. A humidifier can help to
minimize these effects.
2. Pick a daily moisturizer that works, and then make a habit of
using it. My personal favorites in the moisturizer category include
Vanicream, Aveeno, Neutrogena, Cetaphil, and Cerave. Stay away
from scented products and bright colors in your creams, as these
can cause allergic contact dermatitis and actually worsen your
eczema.
3. Flares of eczema can be treated with a mild over-the-counter
topical corticosteroid (example: 1% hydrocortisone). Apply twice
a day, but don’t do this for more than two weeks in any one place
though.
4. A daily over-the-counter 2nd-generation antihistamine (Zyrtec,
Allerga, Claritin) can help to ease both itching and runny noses this
time of the year.
5. Layer up. Eczema can be exacerbated by extreme temperature
changes. Shed those layers when you have to travel to that one
part of the office that is the Sahara and vice-versa for that other
part of the office that is the South Pole.
6. Water-facts: After hand-washing or showering be sure to
moisturize immediately after. Washing our skin depletes it of our
natural oils. When leather gets wet, we dry it off and then oil it
up. Same idea for our skin, but instead, we just use moisturizers.
Finally, shed those wet workout clothes immediately when you
finish working out.
Now for the fun stuff. This time of year is the best
time for many of the cosmetic treatments you
might have heard of for some time. The lack of sun
exposure combined with the holiday breaks allow
your provider to utilize some of the more powerful
treatments that we have in our arsenal.
CO2 laser is one of the more powerful lasers
on the market and is used to treat fine wrinkles,
brown spots, and “resurface” the skin. This laser
is excellent at treating things like smokers’ lines,
crow’s feet, acne scarring, and poorly textured
skin. We love utilizing this laser during this
time of year as we want our patients to stay out
of the sun and frequently lubricate their treated areas for 5-7 days as
they recover.
Photofacials with the IPL laser are also popular this time of year. We
like to utilize this laser when patients have a minimal tan (in addition to
avoiding post-treatment sun exposure). You may have heard of this laser
from friends who describe it as “making my brown spots crumble off ”.
This laser treatment acts on the deeper layers of the skin, making it ideal
for treating broken capillaries, sun damage and other impurities.
Winter is also a good time to work to start a cycle of acne scar
treatments or skin tightening with radio frequency devices. These devices
create a controlled heating of the upper dermis where it can produce a
significant increase in both collagen and elastin. This in turn initiates a
strong wound healing response, which leads to a smoother, rejuvenated
appearance and a reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, thin skin
laxity, skin irregularities and stretch marks.
Finally, many of our regular patients know this is a great time of
year to try out a filler that maybe you have been thinking about for
some time. The holidays give you a window to try new treatments away
from work and colleagues that you may be concerned could notice the
subtle change. The holidays also allow us plenty of time to treat any postprocedure
bruising or swelling with laser and other modalities, so your
new filler is perfect by the time you go back to work.
As always, consult with a board-certified dermatologist for further
details on any of the above topics.
We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday, and may 2021
be a better year than 2020. Take care!
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.
34 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

Weight and Pain
By Colin Kress, D.O.
Excess weight puts
added stress on
joints and bones
Walking on level ground creates a force on
your knees equal to 1.5 times your body weight,
which significantly increases when walking on
an incline. According to Johns Hopkins – just being
10 pounds overweight increases the force of your
knees by 30 to 40 pounds with every step you take.
Studies have shown that losing weight will not only
reduce one’s pain but will also slow the progression
of arthritis. The hardest part about losing weight is
that it requires one to be healthy in diet and activity.
Chronic pain is a limiting factor towards being
active. This is where treatment options such as
chiropractic and physical therapy (including aqua
therapy) can be extremely helpful.
Chiropractic treatment is a common option
for back and joint pains. Chiropractors use a
hands-on approach to aid the body into proper
alignment thereby allowing the body to heal
itself without the use of medications or surgery.
Through the use of manipulation, a chiropractor
tries to improve mobility of tissue at restricted
areas that result from injury.
Physical therapy is a great treatment option
for joint and low-back pain. Physical therapists
are trained to work with you to identify sources
of chronic pain, educate you regarding what
exacerbates these and find solutions to improve
your mobility with the goal of reducing your
pain. Treatments include educating you so to
better understand how you pain occurs and
how to avoid triggers. Exercises are added to
help facilitate better movement with less pain
and discomfort. Gait and stability training
are also used as proper gait mechanics can
significantly aid in reducing low back pain. They
also incorporate many other therapies including
massage, ultrasound, TENS, and dry needling,
to name a few.
Being active is one of the best things we
can do for ourselves in regard to overall health
and in relieving pain. Studies have shown
time and time again that inactivity leads to
worsening pain. Inactivity all too frequently
also leads to increased weight. One of the best
ways to help with chronic pain is to maintain a
healthy weight and be active. Chiropractic and
physical therapy are some of the ways that aid
in activity modification.
If you need to lessen your pain and get back
to the things you enjoy most, give us a call for
a consultation. After a comprehensive exam, we
will develop a personalized treatment plan that
works best for you. Our goal is to help you live a
healthy life, free of pain.
Dr. Colin Kress completed his medical degree at Lincoln Memorial
University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014 and
subsequently completed his Anesthesia Residency and Pan
Management Fellowship at Michigan State University McLaren
Oakland Hospital. He may be reached at 770-800-3455.
36 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

AVOID EXCESSIVE
SCREEN TIME
By Mira Sivan OD, AAOMC
Apart from myopia, excessive screen time
also increases the risk of other adverse
health outcomes, including digital eye
strain, mental illness, musculoskeletal
problems, diabetes, heart disease, and
cancer. The COVID-19 pandemic is not likely
to abate soon, and there is a clear imperative to
find ways to protect children and adults from
boredom as well as from the detrimental effects
caused by screens. Here is some advice to manage
screen time.
1. TAKE REGULAR BREAKS
FROM SCREENS
Screens can be addictive. It is essential to
take regular breaks between periods of screen
exposure. A break of at least 15 minutes
should be taken after two hours of device use,
at a minimum.
2. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY
FACE-TO-SCREEN DISTANCE
Distances of 24 in. for computer screens and
12 in. for smart devices such as phones or
tablets are recommended.
3. AT-HOME ALTERNATIVES
TO OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
AND SCREEN TIME
Creating a routine for your child is a useful way
to ensure that their time is used productively
and with purpose. This routine should include
blocks of screen-free playtime. If independent
play is a struggle for your child, set aside some
time to engage in play with him or her. This
can include storytelling, having a workout
session together, and even doing household
chores together.
Whatever you choose to do with your
child, remember to use these moments as
golden opportunities to spend some quality
time bonding.
Mira Sivan OD, AAOMC
Optometrist and Orthokeratologist
FOR YOUR EYES ONLY EYECARE
678-648-5185
www.fyeo-eyecare.com
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 37

Revisiting Inflammation
IN THE COVID WORLD
By Narendra Singh, MD
Hopes that the COVID 19 coronavirus pandemic would diminish with the warmer weather did not materialize.
Instead we are preparing to deal with ongoing viral spread through the fall and winter months while
concurrently dealing with bacterial pneumonias and the common flu. All infections cause inflammation.
With the COVID 19 virus we now
know there is marked generalized
inflammation of the entire body. This
can manifest in many different ways. In the
pediatric population a rare complication
called Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in
Children MIS-C can cause severe respiratory
and cardiac injury. Obesity, chronic lung
disease, and premature birth. Hispanic and
black children are at increased risk. The most
common presentation includes fever, chills,
and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea,
vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. We
need to be vigilant about both prevention and
early identification of symptoms.
In adults, the increased inflammation can
cause weakness of the heart through muscle
damage called myocarditis. We know that
inflammation is an important trigger for the
rupture of plaques within the heart that can
lead to a heart attack, while rupture of plaques
in the carotid arteries can lead to a stroke.
The risk of blood clots also increases with
coronavirus infections. These clots originate in
the legs but can travel to the lungs causing life
threatening complications. Studies have shown
that fear of hospitals has kept many individuals
from seeking prompt medical attention. If
you have chest pain, shortness of breath or
unexplained weakness, please seek medical
attention promptly.
Progress in medicine fortunately
continues during the pandemic. An old antiinflammatory
drug called colchicine has been
previously used to treat gout and a heart
condition called pericarditis. Two major
studies have now tested this compound in
low doses, both in the setting of a recent heart
attack (COLCOT study) and with chronic
coronary heart disease (LoDoCo 2 study.) Over
a median follow-up of 30 months, colchicine
reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes and
the need for revasculaization by 31% compared
to standard care. Overall, this low dose was
well tolerated with one in 10 patients having
to stop the drug usually for gastrointestinal
side effects. Relatively speaking, the drug is
inexpensive since it is already generic, which
hopefully will assist in widespread utilization.
Colchicine has been tested with COVID-19
infected patients in a small study in Greece
and shown some promise in reducing
clinical deterioration, but its too early for any
firm conclusions.
While the push for a coronavirus vaccine
is welcomed, it is unlikely to provide complete
protection. In addition to getting your flu and
pneumonia shots the common sense measures
of masks, handwashing and social distancing
need to be practiced to reduce the spread. We
can minimize inflammation in our bodies
with foods rich in antioxidants (berries, pecan,
dark chocolate, spinach, kale and beets) and if
needed, heart drugs such as statins and aspirin.
Staying healthy through eating well, losing
weight, exercising regularily and not smoking
will collectively help reduce your chances of
getting the virus and improve the chances of you
surviving the virus.
NARENDRA SINGH, MD,
FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA
Clinical Assistant Professor, Medical College
of Georgia at Augusta University,
Director, Clinical Research
(770) 887-3255
1400 Northside Forsyth Dr. | Suite 340/380
Cumming GA 30041
5400 Laurel Springs Pkwy. | Suite 1401
Johns Creek GA 30024.
info@heartdrsingh.com
heartdrsingh.com
38 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

Becoming Aware of Breast
Cancer Risks & Screening
By Dr. Nada Megally
Breast cancer accounts for 30% of all new cases of cancer
diagnosed in women in the United States, a woman’s lifetime
risk of developing breast cancer is approximately 12%.
Breast cancer mortality rates have tremendously decreased
over the past 50 years, and that can be attributed to early
detection and screening guidelines, as well as improvements
in breast cancer treatment.
The main risk factors for breast cancer are female gender and
advancing age. Although other characteristics have been associated
with an increased risk of breast cancer, most women in whom invasive
breast cancer is diagnosed do not have identifiable risk factors.
The goal of screening is to detect preclinical disease in healthy,
asymptomatic patients to prevent adverse outcomes, improve survival,
and avoid the need for more intensive treatments.
Breast self-examination, breast self-awareness, clinical breast
examination, and mammography all have been used alone or in
combination to screen for breast cancer.
Women at average risk of breast cancer should begin screening
mammography starting at age 40. If they have not, they should begin
screening mammography by no later than age 50 years.
The decision about the age to begin mammography screening should
be made through a shared decision-making process with your health
care provider.
Shared decision making is important for decisions regarding breast
cancer screening due to many choices involved in personal preferences
related to potential benefits and adverse consequences, as well as each
individual’s differing risk factors.
Your health care provider will periodically assess your personal
breast cancer risk by reviewing your history and family history of cancer
in first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree relatives as well as the
age of diagnosis. If you are at an increased risk of breast cancer, further
risk assessment will be performed.
If you believe that you are at an increased risk of developing breast
cancer, or have not had your annual screening, speak to your health care
provider today to help determine your recommended screening schedule.
*Georgia Department of Public Health
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.
Dr. Nada Megally, originally from Egypt, moved to Georgia at the age of 11. Dr. Megally is a member of the American
Congress of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
40 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 41

You are a Leader,
whether you want
to be or not
By Christine Roberts
If you buy into the idea that leadership is influence, then we are all leaders, right? Whether you are employed
or at home, working as a mother, father, friend, brother, or sister, you are exercising leadership. One does
not have to be in a place of management or oversight to be a leader; leadership is a matter of perspective.
“BELIEF DRIVES BEHAVIOR”
In order to influence others, we must lead
ourselves first. Think for a moment about the
various areas of life such as relationships, career,
health, finances, spiritual life, and volunteerism,
where opportunities to lead often arise.
Looking inwardly, how does your behavior
model what you think is important in
leadership? What kind of leader are you and
how well do you exhibit leadership in all areas of
your life?
You will not be perfect every day, in every
facet of life, but you and I are all works in
progress. The key is, are you satisfied with where
you are today and are you striving to grow, learn
and be better every day?
We live in a fear-based, negative culture,
where many of us have become desensitized to
the impacts of our cultural environment and
how it affects our own attitudes and ability to
lead positively.
If the saying, “Belief Drives Behavior” is
true, does your belief about yourself impact how
you come across to others?
ARE YOU A POSITIVE
INFLUENCE?
How does your own outlook affect what you do
on a given day, does it set a positive or negative
tone in your environment, and does it impact
your ability to lead to influence?
A number of years ago I worked at a company
where the President was always suspicious of others;
he constantly berated people and assumed the
worst, complaining about everything and everyone.
I had no respect for him, and frankly I struggled
to work well in such a toxic environment. He did
not get the best performance out of those of us
who reported to him. (In fact, my primary goal
was to get out of there!)
In contrast, I have also had the privilege of
working with incredible leaders who modeled
constant learning, demonstrated respect and
grace for others, and focused on solutions
(versus focusing on the problems).
Their leadership encouraged a highly
productive environment in the workplace, while
invigorating and inspiring those around them.
HOW CAN WE BEHAVE EACH
DAY TO INSPIRE OTHERS?
As influencers, how can we behave each day to
inspire others?
Is it possible to create an environment where
those around us thrive because we focus on
solutions instead of complaining?
Does our attitude project optimism and
encouragement?
How can we realistically address the issues
and problems we face, while being cognitive of
our own impact on others?
Is there anything we need to change or
do differently? Of course, there is. It is just a
matter of having awareness and taking action to
improve so we can be a role model.
LEADERSHIP AT ITS CORE IS A
CHOICE
Leadership, at its core, is a choice you make each
day to act positively and inspire others to do the
same. Influence is born from leadership and can
be reflected in others to inspire confidence and
increase productivity.
Take the time to invest in learning the skills
to improve your influence. Read/listen (audible)
books, listen to podcasts, watch TED Talks,
converse with leaders that you admire. It starts
with you and it starts with me.
What if we all invested in being the best
leaders possible? The most inspiring influencer
possible? How much better would this world
be for us? Who wants to be thought of as a
great influencer and who wants to be around
one? Me! How about you?
Would love to hear from you, leave a comment or connect on FB and Instagram
@ ChristineMRoberts10 and/or LI @ Christine-M-Roberts with your thoughts, or
visit ChristineMRoberts.com
42 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 43

When ‘Safe’ is Too Safe
By Kennedy Kearby
COVID-19 has impacted everyone in different ways, but in one way we are all alike. Masks. Masks keep us safe from
germs. If it were not for masks, we all would have had COVID-19 by now, some of becoming more ill than others.
We do not jump off bridges because it is not safe. We wear a seatbelt because it keeps us safe. Vaccines, helmets,
policemen, fire extinguishers, etc., are all designed to prevent and keep us safe.
Recently, I heard something that completely changed my outlook
on life—that “fear is the killer of everything.” That really resonated
with me. It shook me to my core. I, as a person, used to be outgoing,
hopeful, and positive. When we go through hard times, it is easy to lose
ourselves. Hearing that made me want to try again. It made me want to
run down the street in the middle of the night screaming Abba lyrics at
the top of my lungs.
I am in no way saying you should not go get your annual flu shot or
wear a helmet when you go cycling. I am simply stating that we, as humans,
need to start celebrating life. Nobody is immortal (even though Ponce De
Leon looked extremely hard for the Fountain of Youth, he failed). We need
to metaphorically “jump off a bridge”. Step out of your comfort zone. You
would be surprised how different it can change things.
Think positively. If you truly realized how much your thoughts
impacted the way you felt, you would never think another bad thought
again. When something demeaning creeps in your brain, think of what
makes you the happiest.
I am so tired of seeing people wonder how to make their lives
more interesting. You have control of your own life. So, take control.
Do something about it. Kiss that boy. Ask that girl out. Learn to play
guitar. Think outside the box. Make it BIGGER. Climb Mount Everest.
Make a movie. Move to New York. This is the sign you have been
waiting for.
I am a senior in high school, and I can see everyone’s obsession with
each other. You have to stop focusing on her, or him, and focus on YOU.
You are worth it. Each one of you is so beautiful and deserves to be the
best version of yourselves. God, I know what you all must think, she just
sounds like my mom (*eye roll*). Trust me I never listened to my mom,
but I am listening now.
The world is weird right now, between the protests and the pandemic,
we are spiraling. Take control. Every day do ONE thing out of your
comfort zone, to make yourself feel smarter, stronger, a well-rounded
person of society. I challenge you each. You will see results. This is the
sign you have been waiting for.
Kennedy Kearby is a senior at West Forsyth High School. She plans on pursuing a career in Journalism.
44 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

YOUNG
Entrepeneurs
SUCCESS – finding joy in what you do. These three young ladies are doing just
that! Meet three remarkable women who are taking their dream to the next level.
THEY ARE YOUNG, CREATIVE AND WISE.
Check out their offerings and, perhaps, support them. After all, our future is made of
our collective work.
BE THE YELLOW
CLAIRE
CARPENTER
Spreading the joy, light, happiness &
the yellow to others through art
www.betheyellow.com
10% of proceeds go to a local
organization
WISP FALLS
ISABELLA
GIORDANO
Watch out for this up and
coming businesses
in the area!
THE DISTRESSED
CLOSET
LAUREN
SGAMBATO
etsy.com/shop/TheDistressedCloset

MUSIC
The power of music lies in its ability to quickly elicit a wide
range of emotions. Thank you to all of the musicians who
shared their talent at the Vickery Village courtyard.
RTW
www.rtwrocks.com
770-597-2053
AMBER LEIGH MUSIC
@amberleighsings
www.amberleighsings.com
THE FUZE
@TheFuzeFanPage · Band
404-680-7440
BACKYARD CHICKENS
@backyardchickensband
770-827-6119
HIGHWAY 20 ROCK ‘N
ROLL BAND
770-475-6618
NORTH MAIN BAND
@NorthMainBand
northmain.band@gmail.com
46 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 47

10 TIPS
For the Healthiest, Happiest School Year
By Dr. Kristin Marchman
The kids are back in school after many
months of being home and, whether
your kids are attending school in
person or virtually, you are likely
feeling the stress of a school year with
the added unknowns of this year. We
will get through this together, mamas.
Now that we have survived the first
few months of the new school year,
let us focus on some ways to set your
kids up for their healthiest, happiest
rest of the school year.
1.
Set the stage for a successful
morning every night before school.
Pack lunches and allow your
children to be part of the process. This will
ensure they are happy with the selections and
also more likely to eat everything. Best of all,
it is one less thing you have to worry about in
the morning. If you like to send notes with
your kids, get that sweet note written the night
before. Set backpacks by the door, so they are
ready to go and will not ever be left behind.
2.
Before the kids come downstairs
in the morning, start some fun,
upbeat music and put some
uplifting oils into your diffuser (my favorites
are citrus fresh or joy + orange). Anything that
will help to wake up the sleepyheads and put
them in a good mood is a win in my book, and
this has proven successful in my house.
3.
Get vitamins laid out and ready
next to their breakfast. It is more
important now than ever to
ensure our kids' bodies are getting adequate
nutrition and immune support. My "inner
rockstar immune support for kids" consists of
a multivitamin, probiotic, vitamin C, vitamin
D, zinc, and 1 oz. of an antioxidant red drink
to get those immune systems functioning
optimally for the day ahead.
4.
Those vitamins should be paired
with a nutritious breakfast.
Studies show that kids who eat
breakfast score higher on tests, concentrate
better, and solve problems more easily. Let us
help those tummies and brains start off strong
each morning.
5.
Incorporate essential oils into
your routine for anything
your child needs a little extra
support with. From those school day
jitters to the cold weather sniffles. From
immune support to a focus blend diffused
during virtual school or while completing
homework in the afternoon. Oils are a huge
tool for and have been a game changer in
my home. To learn more about essential oils
(I only recommend Young Living essential
oils), check out my personal website www.
drmarchman.com. I'm also always posting
little oily tips and tricks on my Instagram
page @drkristinmarchman.
Keep hand sanitizer in your
kids' backpacks at all times
and encourage them to use it.
6. Have it handy for when kids
get in the car or off the bus, until they are
able to wash their hands. If your kids are
attending virtual school, have the sanitizer
by their desk ready to go. We love Thieves
hand sanitizer for it's safe ingredients,
effectiveness, and the fact that it doesn't
dry out those precious hands, even
when used approximately one hundred
times a day.
7.
Get those little bodies outside
and moving as much as possible.
Keeping our kids active leads
to improved energy, improved mood,
enhanced learning and memory, improved
concentration, better sleep, and increased
immune function. Limit optional screen time
for your children to one to two hours a day.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
Water is a vital part of any
diet, so always make sure
8. your children have water with
them at school. Remind them to drink
throughout the day to keep their bodies
and brains happy. Dehydration can lead
to fatigue, headaches, and it can make the
body more susceptible to illness.
9.
Have your kids checked by a
pediatric chiropractor. Chiropractic
adjustments have been shown
to boost the immune system by ensuring the
nervous system is functioning at 100%. They
can also improve focus to ensure your kids
get the most out of their school days, and
can, of course, help with any discomfort from
long days sitting at a desk or carrying a heavy
backpack. I recommend getting your kids
adjusted at least once a month in order for
them to feel and perform at their best.
10.
"Early to bed, early to
rise" is a phrase you have
probably heard before.
Good quality sleep is so important for our
kids' growing bodies, so make sure that
bedtime comes at a time where they can get
adequate sleep for the day ahead. Not getting
enough sleep can lead to irritability, inability to
concentrate, and can alter immune function.
If your kids have trouble falling asleep, start
diffusing some calming oils in their room 30
minutes before it is time for lights out.
Hopefully, these tips will help you
incorporate some healthy habits as you
progress through the school year. Here’s
to a happy, healthy year for your family!
48 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM Dr. Kristin Marchman VOLUME | Essential X | ISSUE Wellness 3 Chiropractic | www.essentialwellnesschiropractic.com

49 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

Continued
Support for
HEALTHCARE WORKERS
ALEX KIPPING, A FORMER RESIDENT OF FORSYTH COUNTY, DECIDED THAT
THOUGH SHE IS NO LONGER LIVING IN THE AREA SHE WANTED TO DO SOMETHING
TO THANK HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN THE COMMUNITY SHE STILL CALLS HOME.
“I am currently a senior in high school. Although
my family and I no longer live in Georgia, I lived
in Cumming for most of my life. Forsyth County
holds all of my childhood memories and provided
an incredibly safe place for me to grow up,” Kipping
explained. “Northside Hospital Forsyth also played
a large role in those memories through their
sponsored events that encouraged time with family
and community. For me, Cumming will always be
the place that I call home.”
Kipping decided the way for her to share her
support was to provide gift cards for the healthcare
workers. She sought sponsors and her hard work
paid off.
Recently, Kipping purchased 300 gift cards at
Marie’s Deli in Cumming, each in the amount of $10.
The gift cards included accompanied by a Thank you
note from folks who purchased the cards.
“The generosity of our sponsors made it possible
for me to purchase the initial set of gift cards. I hope
that more folks will join our efforts. They can stop by
Marie’s Italian Deli and purchase gift cards and fill
out a Thank you card as well,” Kipping added.
Dr. Alexander Gross (Georgia Dermatology
Center), Ed Rivers (Keller Williams Realty), Karen
Smith (Marie’s Italian Deli) and Cheryl McFadden
(Beaver Toyota in Cumming) joined Kipping as she
presented the cards to Northside Hospital Forsyth’s
Administrator Lynn Jackson.
“This is such a generous expression of thanks for
our healthcare team. The project conception and
follow through from Alex was outstanding and we
are humbled and appreciative of the generosity from
our business community,” Jackson stated. “We are
extremely proud of the work our staff has been doing
during these challenging times and being recognized
and thanked for it is very kind."
Kipping added, “With the continued pandemic, I
know that this has been an extremely stressing and
uncertain time for all of us. However, as I have been
watching how this has affected our country, I keep
imagining how this continues to affect the brave
individuals working in healthcare. With COVID-19
still rampant, they need to know that their dedication
and efforts have not been forgotten. They have been
working tirelessly over the last eight months to keep
people safe, educated, and healthy. For these reasons,
I wanted to find a way to convey our genuine and
continued gratitude towards these workers who risk
their own well-being to protect others. Luckily for
me, several local businesses shared in my desire to
show our Northside Hospital Forsyth family that we
are still thinking of them. I hope you will join me and
these wonderful sponsors on this mission.”
Gift Cards are available
for purchased at Marie's
Italian Deli. Thank you cards
are available and will be
included with each
gift card that is purchased.
Marie's Italian Deli
580 Atlanta Rd
Cumming, GA 30040
50 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME X | ISSUE 3

©2020 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Inc. All rights reserved. Sports Medicine Physical Therapy is a department of Children’s at Scottish Rite hospital.
WHERE YOU TAKE HER
KNEE INJURY MATTERS
Carson Nolan, Meniscus Tear
She might stick the landing like an
Olympian, but she’s still growing.
Growing bodies require special care, that’s why Children’s Healthcare of
Atlanta specializes in treating teen athletes. Our team of doctors provides
the coordinated care teens need throughout their recovery process to get
them back out on the mat. It’s why where you take them matters. It’s why
you take them to Children’s.
Visit choa.org/sportsmed to learn more.
VOLUME Three X | Locations ISSUE 3 | in MYFORSYTHMAG.COM Alpharetta and Forsyth 51

By Maria I. Morgan
Psalm 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our
hearts unto wisdom.
So how do we ‘number our days’? Life is short. (Although your
school-aged children might disagree!) Every day we get to decide how
we spend 1440 minutes. We have responsibilities and we have free
time. Instead of coasting through the days on autopilot, we can be
intentional, using our time wisely with eternity in view. And choosing
the right attitude regardless of the task. That’s not always easy.
Did you notice numbering our days isn’t something that comes
naturally? It is something we learn. And learning requires effort. I’m
glad our teacher is the Lord. He gives us the best textbook – the Bible.
Spending time getting to know our Heavenly Father each day, and
following His direction changes everything:
*His Word shows us a clear picture of a good God.
Psalm 145:8-9 The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to
anger, and of great mercy. 9 The Lord is good to all: and his tender
mercies are over all his works.
*He invites us to come to Him with our cares and concerns.
Psalm 62:8 Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart
before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Time
Well-Spent
By Maria I. Morgan
Which is harder: to be busy, or to be still? I think
most of us would agree our default setting is
to stay crazy busy. We all know there are 24
hours in a day, and we try to accomplish as
much as we can in that time. But is busyness
the best possible use of the time given to us?
*He wants us to look to Him for direction in every decision we make.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not
unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him,
and he shall direct thy paths.
Instead of giving our pre-planned schedule to the Lord for His stamp
of approval, we need to spend time in the Word and prayer to sense
the next step He wants us to take. When we eagerly listen to Him and
obey His will, we’ve ‘applied our hearts to wisdom’ and are learning
to ‘number our days.’
So how would you describe yourself today? Are you crazy busy? Or
intentionally slowing down to spend time with the Father, listening to
His Word and living it out?
Can I pray for you?
Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me enough to give me your
Word to teach me the best use of time. I admit a lot of times I get
busy with everything that needs to be done and forget to spend time
with you first. Help me have a desire to be still, study your truths and
live them out today. In Jesus’s name, Amen.
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The Country Preacher
By Rev. David Hill
Have we begun a new era of
“building-less” churches? Seating
restrictions required by the government
caused one pastor to suggest that a church
include the word ‘protest’ in its name so
the building could be legally used. Acts
2:1,47 describes the church as an assembly,
“gathering with one accord, in one place.”
Most scriptural references to the church are
referring to the people, not the building.
Towns often have a “Church St.” as an
effort to distinguish the church as the people
and not the building; occasionally, the street
will be called “Meeting House Rd.”
In the 1950’s, our family attended a large
church. With several thousand attending,
today, it would be called a ‘Mega-church.’
Children in Sunday School learned key
Bible passages, the plagues of Egypt, the 10
Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer, the 23rd
Psalm and the names of the 12 Apostles.
Stories about Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses,
Daniel and Jonah taught us how God could
rescue us in times of trouble. We learned that
God answers prayer and solves problems that
common sense failed to help us understand.
I loved going to Sunday School!
A Sunday night Bible study was held
before the evening service for those whose
schedule did not allow them to attend the
morning service. During the summer,
Sunday night services were held in a large
tent. The hope was that non-believers
would associate the outdoor preaching with
the old-time gospel meetings of America’s
itinerant circuit preachers. Neither the tent
nor the building was the church. Matthew
18:20 says, “For where two or three are
gathered together in my name, there am I
in the midst of them.” Missionary friends
of mine described how those new to the
mission field wanted to make new churches
in foreign countries ‘look like’ the churches
they had left in North America, complete
with steeple, pews and an organ.
It was the message, not the meeting house.
Jesus preached from a boat in Matthew 13:2.
In Matthew 14:19-21, he preached to 5000
men, not counting the women and children,
in a grassy pasture. You might describe that
service as the first “Lord’s Supper.” After
Jesus blessed the meal, his disciples passed
around baskets of bread and fish. He had
preached “Verily, verily, I say unto you, he
that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
I am the Bread of Life.” (John 6:35, 47-48)
The government has restricted the use of our
buildings. But those meeting in the house
of Lydia (Acts 16:14-15) and in the home of
Aquilla and Priscilla (Romans 16:3-5) were
the congregation; God’s church.
Matthew 16:18 “…I will build my church:
and the gates of hell shall not prevail against
it.” Each of us is responsible for bringing our
family together in the church. In the absence
of the familiar building and the common
order of service, we can still meet with God,
even if it is just our family. Remember, it is
still the LORD’s Day; not ours.
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NO MORE INDEPENDENT
AUTO REPAIR SHOPS
By Tom Burgess, Owner, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming GA
THAT IS IF THE
MANUFACTURERS
GET THEIR WAY.
Ok, so that was a bit of
click bait I know, but the
situation is real. I’ve
written before about the
complexity of our modernday
vehicles. They are, in
effect, rolling computers
making incredibly complex
decisions at inconceivable
speeds every second the
key is on. Depending on
the vehicle, systems are
working continuously to
perfect engine fuel and
spark management, actively
manage cruise control and
braking functions, help
correct a skid – to the more
mundane processes such
as deciding whether to allow
you to roll down the window
or open your sliding door.
All these computers need sensors and switches to provide the data
required to make these decisions, and the complexity of the coding is
remarkable. But my topic today is not about these systems, but rather a
related topic that has the potential to adversely impact all vehicle owners,
and that’s the tremendous amount of data that is collected by these
computers, and who owns that data.
If your home computer was collecting data on your activities continuously,
and on the health of your computer – who should have ownership rights
to that data? In effect, that data collection is what’s happening every
second your car is running. Modern cars are collecting and storing
enormous amounts of data (up to 25 GB per hour) and continuously
sending that data to the manufacturer. That includes location data, how
you drive, how the car is performing, and what might be needed as far as
maintenance is concerned. That has been occurring for some time, but
in two years, 87 percent of cars sold will be equipped with the wireless
technology that will send that data in real time, continuously. By 2030 it
is expected that all cars will have this capability.
Who should be able to access that data? Do you want others to know
how fast you are driving, how hard you are braking, and where you are
at any point in time? Should the police be able to access that data and
issue you a speeding ticket because your car ratted you out? Should your
automaker be allowed to sell your historical location data to marketers,
so they know what places you frequent?
Automakers are currently working hard to ensure they have the exclusive
rights and access to that data for their cars and trucks. That gives them
the ability to choose who they share it with, how much to charge for
that data, and of course, a huge concern to me – what data to give to
independent repair shops.
If they are successful in holding the data as proprietary, the cost to
maintain your vehicle will go up dramatically. Because in that case only
the dealer will have access to the data and independent repair shops will
be forced out of business, and only quick-lube and tire shops will remain.
Even putting a new battery into some cars today requires access to the
data. If you do not tell the car that a new battery has been installed, the
car will overcharge it based on old, stored charging requirements.
We all know competition keeps prices down, so what is needed is a
decision by the courts that car owners, not car manufacturers own the
data being generated by their own cars and trucks.
Be watchful for this in the future, and if you want to learn more or
take action now, go to www.autocare.org/telematics. You can
sign a petition on that site urging Congress to give ownership of the
data to the vehicle owner.
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National
Day Of
Service
Thank you to all of our sponsors for helping us take care of vehicles for 44 single
moms and individuals who needed a little help with their car maintenance. Each
car received a free oil change and safety inspections. Eighteen bald tires were
replaced, brake jobs were completed and a tie rod that was close to failing – all
at no cost.
The Christian Brothers Cumming shop employees, family members and friends
volunteered their time to work on the cars, and members of the Boy Scouts Troop
1109 washed and vacuumed each car.
Thank you Chick-fil-A at The Collection for providing breakfast sandwiches for all
volunteers and guests, Starbucks (Hwy 9) for the wonderful coffee for everyone,
NAPA for hosting lunch and selling the necessary parts to fix the cars at reduced
prices, Auto-Zone provided oil and also discounted pricing on parts, and Discount
Tire for the special pricing on the tires we purchased.
Funky Mountain Flowers provided us with a carnation for every guest vehicle. Due to
weather conditions, Better Moonwalks of GA was unable to set-up a bounce house
as they have done every year.
Please consider these businesses when you have a need - they are such incredible
supporters of this community. Thanks again to everyone.
VOLUME X | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 57

Virtual is
Now Reality:
TIME TO IMPROVE
CONNECTIVITY
Virtual is now reality. 2020 has forced
it (and so many other things) into our
daily lives. Happy hours banned? Share
a virtual toast with friends. Have a
weird rash? Facetime your doctor for
a telemed visit. School orientation?
Google Meet your teacher and take a
virtual tour of the classroom.
Work meetings? Zoom to the rescue.
1. GET ORGANIZED - Plan ahead, send an agenda, and commit
to start and end times. Communicate expectations for when
and what people need to prepare to contribute.
2. MODERATE - Assign a facilitator. Nothing is worse than
everyone talking at once. Set talking points and the moderator
can give individual airtime to each participant while others are
muted.
3. GOALS - Define the purpose for the meeting and only invite
those contributing to that specific intent. Too many people
in any meeting is counterproductive and it’s exponentially
worse when you see all those faces on a screen. (Death by
Meeting rules still apply.)
4. MIX IT UP - Use tools available on your virtual platform to
further engage your team. Many offer breakout rooms and
small group chats. You can segment the group randomly, or
pre-determine breakouts before the call, then hop in and
out of these side-discussions to check progress and answer
questions.
5. MAKE IT FUN - Virtual does not have to be boring. Create
themes for participants to get creative with how they interact,
what they bring or how they personalize a virtual background.
Use polling and chat features during your Question and Answer
section to increase participation. Create a countdown to the
meeting exit to alleviate the painful frozen hang-up faces.
If it feels ‘virtually’ impossible to engage
your group, we would love to help!
SO, LET’S TALK ABOUT VIRTUAL MEETINGS. There are basic
best practices like ‘must wear pants’ and ‘alert family you’re on camera.’
Some have perfected a professional setting with good camera angles and
decent lighting. However, many of us are feeling disconnected.
Believe it or not, you can have productive virtual meetings that are also
engaging. It just takes proactive effort. We’re passionate about improving
communication, so whether we are hosting virtual coaching sessions,
development programs or training interactions, we are sharing some tips
to help improve online interactions.
STEFANEY CARO AND KATIE RIALS
are Registered Corporate Coaches and Co-founders
of Mind Your Biz. They specialize in improving
communication and individual responsibility through
coaching, consulting, and team development.
Learn more at www.mind-yourbiz.com
404-431-5946 | info@mind-yourbiz.com.
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ADVERTISER DIRECTORY
AUTOMOTIVE/CAR REPAIR
SERVICES
Christian Brothers Automotive – pg. 57
470-253-7376 | www.cbac.com/cumming
BREW PUB/TAPROOM
Cherry Street Brewing Taproom – pg. 19
770-205-5512 | www.cherrystreetvickery.com
CAR DEALERSHIP
Nick Guidry | Lou Sohb Honda
470-323-6350 | www.lousobhhonda.com
CYBER SECURITY/
TECHNOLOGY
SOLUTIONS
Critical Path Security – pg. 55
770-224-6482 | www.criticalpathsscurity.com
DANCE ACADEMY/
INSTRUCTION
Cumming Dance Academy – Inside Back Cover
770-781-4922 | www.CummingDanceAcademy.com
EMBROIDERY
Amigo Embroidery – pg.61
404-216-5740 | www.amigoembroidery.com
FINANCIAL
PLANNING
Arseneau Advisory Group – pg. 16
470-839-9001 | www.arseneauadvisory.com
Vickery Creek Capital Management – pg. 23
866-571-5818 | www.vickerycreek.net
HEATING/VENTILATION/
AIR CONDITIONING
Shelnutt HVAC – pg. 61
706-265-5854 | www.shelnutthvac.com
HOBBY STORE
Atlanta Hobby – pg. 3
678-513-4450 | www.atlantahobby.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. 37
770-722-2711 | www.blissmammawellness.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adam Pendleton Photography – pg. 53
678-208-7077 | www.adampendleton.com
PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL
SERVICES
Advanced Center for Joint Surgery – pg. 49
470-839-9200 | www.advancedcenterforjointsurgery.com
CHILDREN’S at FORSYTH – pg. 51
404-785-3100 | www.choa.com/urgentcare
Modern OBGYN – pg. 41
404-446-2496 | www.reyesobgyn.com
Narendra Singh, MD – pg. 39
678-679-6800; 770-622-1622 | www.heartdrsingh.com
The Southern Skin and Beauty Bar – pg. 35
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. 59
770-712-7789 | www.dinsmoreteam.com
RESTAURANTS /FOOD
SERVICES/CATERING
Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant – pg. 23
770-475-9100 | www.casanuovarestaurant.com
Cork & Glass – pg. 13
678-694-8812 | www.corkandglass.com
Lenny’s Subs – pg. 59
678-947-0336 | Fax orders: 678-947-5343
Palapa’s Bar and Grill – pg. 21
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
Your Pie, Cumming – pg. 28
678-341-9023 | www.yourpiepizza.com/stores/cumming
TRANSPORTATION/
NON-EMERGENCY
ABW MedTrans Solutions – pg. 62
678-567-6644
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