My Forsyth 12_2021

CONTENTS
VOLUME XI • ISSUE 3
20
26
34
COVER STORY
29 WHEEZY’S
A TOY BOUTIQUE
FEATURES
24 GREGORY JOHNSON ART
48 CONNECTING WITH YOUR
TEENAGER
58 MY LOVE LETTER TO
FORSYTH COUNTY
HOME AND LIFE
12 The Good News about Real Estate
in 2022
14 Coming into Money
16 Helping Children through Divorce
18 Reset. Reflect. Recharge.
22 Local Vietnam Veteran Gives Back
to Forsyth County
FORSYTH FOODIE
26 Fountain’s Food Adventures:
Sugo
HEALTH & WELLNESS
34 Bonding with Baby at Birth and
Postpartum: A Midwife's
Perspective
36 Psoriasis
38 Don’t Pass the Salt
40 Sanitize your Glasses to Avoid
Contamination Risks
42 Try Something New
44 Time Management Tips
BURGESS MUSINGS
52 What Oil Should I Use in my
Vehicle?
FAITH
54 Remember not to Forget
IN EVERY ISSUE
10 Forsyth County Government
11 News Around Forsyth
46 Mindful Minute
56 The Country Preacher
29
“DON’T MISS
A THING”
WE’RE MOBILE...
myforsythmag.com

CONTRIBUTORS
VOLUME XI • ISSUE 3
MY FORSYTH
PUBLISHER
Market Complete LLC
Samantha Angeli is the
graphic designer for My
Forsyth She may be reached
at samantha.angeli74
@gmail.com
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.
julie@marketcomplete.com
678.614.8583
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Samantha Angeli
samantha.angeli74@gmail.com
770.310.4486
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adam Pendleton
Pam Evans is an
Associate Broker with
Century 21 Results. She
may be reached at
678-778-6551.
David Fountain is a
local food enthusiast and
our community’s Best of
Forsyth Financial Planner
and Investment Advisor. You
can reach him at foodie@
fountainsfoodadventures.com
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.
678.208.7077 • www.adampendleton.com
SPECIAL REPORTS/VIDEO
Michelle Hall
904.386.0417
WEB CONTENT STRATEGIST
Matt Coutu
matt@marketcomplete.com
STAFF WRITER
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.
Bernadette Leonard
is a beauty salon owner
and coach. She may
be reached at
berni@berniinc.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.
Katielee Kaner
katielee.myforsyth@gmail.com
PRINTING AND MAILING SERVICES
Power Marketing & Printing
678.990.3618 • smccaffrey@powermp
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.
Katie Newman, LCSW, is a
licensed clinical social worker
with a Master’s of Social Work
from the University of Georgia
and Bachelor’s degree in
Psychology from Hendrix
College. She may be reached
at 678-773-9046.
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. 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 2021
Narendra Singh, MD,
FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA is the
Director of Clinical Research,
Atlanta Heart Specialists LLC,
Atlanta, GA.
He may be reached at
info@heartdrsingh.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.
My Forsyth | www.myforsythmag.com
5485 Bethelview Road, Suite 360-135
Cumming GA 30040
(p) 678.614.8583 | (f) 770.888.1511

My Script
My work provides me with ample opportunities to meet people, of all
ages and walks of life. Different topics, varied stories and experiences
that become part of my life, one way or another.
Recently, along with our photographer Adam, I heard a most poignant
statement that made us stop in our tracks and say “WOW.”
As we were preparing for a video shoot, I mentioned to those being
interviewed that there would be no script, as I wanted each person to
speak without a guide. To tell their story as part of our conversation.
Simple. All was good with the adults.
We are not provided a script as hours go by and life moves forward.
We are responsible for our words and actions, and the consequences
thereof. Our script is ours to write and develop.
Our scripts lie within us, with chapters written regularly. The story is,
as an 11 year old stated, in our hearts.
Wisdom—the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good
judgment; the quality of being wise. How lucky are we to have the
opportunity to learn from those wiser than us, even at the tender
age of 11.
And then our young interviewee looks at all of us and simply states,
“My script is in my heart.”
You can imagine the look of wonderment we all had. An 11 year old
candidly spoke the truth without forethought or preparation.
Those words led to a rewarding and beautiful conversation where two
adults spoke about their journey – one as a Court Appointed Special
Advocate (CASA) and the other as a father who needed help.
JULIE BRENNAN
Publisher
julie@marketcomplete.com

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 9

FORSYTH COUNTY GOVERNMENT
WHAT'S NEW
ONLINE COMMUNITY INPUT OPPORTUNITY
OFFERED FOR FORSYTH COUNTY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE
As a part of Foster Forsyth 2022, the process of updating the Forsyth
County Comprehensive Plan, an online input opportunity is now available
for the community. A survey, mapping activity and questionnaire, along
with materials presented during recent public meetings, may be found at
www.fosterforsyth2022.com/provide-input. The online input period will
be available through 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 7.
The Forsyth County Comprehensive Plan is a document that serves as
a policy guide for decisions made in relation to growth and land use
change. The plan addresses critical issues and opportunities through the
incorporation of a shared vision for the community's future. Foster Forsyth
2022 is a 12-month planning effort that will culminate in a partial update
to the County’s Comprehensive Plan, which will include three rounds of
community input via in-person and online activities.
“In order to provide an update to the plan that will help guide important
decisions on future development to ensure compatibility with existing uses,
infrastructure and economic trends while protecting natural and cultural
resources, we need the community’s input,” said Planning & Community
Development Deputy Director Vanessa Bernstein-Goldman. “Over the
course of 2022, we hope that the public will participate since the plan
provides a framework for County decisions that impact land use decisions and
community priorities for the County over a twenty-year planning horizon.”
The online input period is being hosted in conjunction with Foster
Forsyth 2022’s first round of public engagement meetings that included
two in-person meetings and one virtual session. Materials presented
during these three public input meetings, may be found online at
www.fosterforsyth2022. The second round of public input meetings will
be held between 6-8 p.m. on the following dates:
• Feb. 23 – Fowler Park Community Room (4110 Carolene Way)
• March 1 – Central Park Banquet Room (2300 Keith Bridge Road)
• March 2 – Zoom Video Conference
For more information on Foster Forsyth 2022 and the importance of
the community’s role in updating the Comprehensive Plan, please visit
www.FosterForsyth2022.com.
HALL NAMED FORSYTH
COUNTY’S LIAISON TO
RESIDENTS AND COMMUNITY
Forsyth County Communications and External
Affairs announced that Taylor Hall will serve
in the newly created position of Community
Communications Coordinator. In this role, Hall
will manage the County’s community outreach
activities and be a dedicated resource within
the County government for residents and
community groups alike.
As Forsyth County increases in size and
diversity, she will focus on new ways of
engaging residents and stakeholders to ensure
the County is accessible and responsive to all.
“Forsyth County is always striving to find new
ways to serve our residents and to understand
their needs and concerns,” said County
Manager Kevin Tanner. “We are excited for
Taylor to hit the ground running and help us
engage more closely with the community.”
Previously, Hall has served in the position of
manager of government affairs for Terminus
South and fundraising events coordinator for
War Room Strategies.
Hall is a graduate of the University of
North Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in
Communications.
10 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

Optimists Recognize
Samiksha Gaherwar
as Star Student
by Larry Brown
The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club recently honored Samiksha Gaherwar
as the 2021-2022 Optimist Star Student, the Optimist Club version of student
of the year. She is a senior at Lambert High School. Jaden Findley, a senior
at West Forsyth High, was named runner up. The Optimist Star Student
Program recognizes outstanding high school students who demonstrate
academic achievement, leadership, and good citizenship.
Samiksha has a weighted GPA of 4.7. She was ranked number
one of more than 700 students in her class for a single SAT sitting,
scoring 1580 on a 1600 scale. She will have completed 27 AP
classes by the end of the school year.
Highly involved in student government and other school
activities, Samiksha is a member of the National Honor Society
and the National English Honor Society, serves as Reading Bowl
captain, and plays on the varsity flag football team. She is chapter
president of the Model United Nations Association of the USA
Youth Chapter and chapter secretary of the National Executive
Council of the Future Business Leaders of America. Also involved
in Optimist activities, Samiksha is a member of the Junior Optimist
Club. She participated seven times in the Optimist oratorical
competition, advancing to the zone level; and competed twice in
the Optimist essay contest where she advanced to the district level.
Samiksha also focuses on the community. She is national youth
director of EKAL Vidyalaya USA, an international non-profit that has
built more than 100,000 schools in rural south Asia. She has a degree
in Kathak dance and teaches dance to neighborhood kids, worked
with her mother leading a project that stitched 1400 masks during the
peak of the pandemic, and tutored Bhutanese refugees in Clarkston.
Jaden has a weighted GPA of 4.0. He is a senator in the
Student Government Association at West, a member of the
National Honor Society, where he tutors students for two hours
a week; the Technology Student Association, the Future Business
Leaders of America, the Black Organization for Leadership
Development, Varsity eSports Club, the Robotic Club, and
the school Welcome Committee. Also involved in Optimist
activities, Jaden is lieutenant governor of the Junior Optimist
Club Southeast Gateway district
Active in community volunteering, Jaden is a leader and
mentor in the Alpharetta Methodist Church student mission
group, participates his church’s involvement in North Fulton
Christian Charities, Operation Christmas Child, and Alpharetta
Methodist student life groups and mission trips.
“Shamiksha and Jaden are aspiring and inspiring young
people and models of optimism," remarked Grady Howard,
chairman of the club’s star student committee. "They are wellrounded,
conscientious, and contribute time and talent to the
community. They are the epitome of star students.”
Shamiksha Gaherwar (center) was named Sawnee-Cumming
Optimist Club 2021-2022 Star Student. She received a plaque and
was presented a cash prize of $500 by club president Carolynn
Martin (right). Also participating in the presentation were (from left):
club vice president Robyn Ulatowski; Lambert principal Dr. Gary
Davison; Shamiksha’s mother Neetu Chauhan; her father Suresh
Gaherwar; and Grady Howard, star student committee chairman.
Jaden Findlay (center) was the Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club
2021-2022 Star Student runner up. He received a plaque and a cash
prize of $250. Participating in the presentation were (from left) club
vice president Robyn Ulatowsaki, star student committee chairman
Grady Howard, Jaden’s father Jasper, his mother Cheryl, club
president Carolynn Martin, West principal Karl Mercer, and
club member Cheryl Kearney.
The Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club meets the first and third Thursday evenings of each month. For
information about Optimists, contact club president Janna Shacklett, janna9810@gmail.com.
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 11

The Good News about
Real Estate in 2022
By Pam Evans
WE HAVE A LOT OF GOOD GOING ON HERE IN METRO ATLANTA. We are a
business-friendly State, have a cosmopolitan capital city, and have great suburban communities surrounding
Atlanta. Businesses want to move here, and people want to live here.
You’re probably thinking, yes, but that is adding to our congestion. True. But it is also keeping our Real Estate
market strong. Our property values have increased significantly since recovering from the poor Lendingdriven
recession of 10+ years ago. And they have increased significantly over the past 12 months, despite the
pandemic – and we are still a very affordable, and desirable part of the country to live in.
12 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

FORSYTH COUNTY
Here in Forsyth County, we enjoy a highly ranked
Public School system with many State and
National Accolades. We are the healthiest county
in GA several years running, and continue to
invest in and value green space. When local
roads are widened to reduce gridlock, Sidewalks
and Bike Paths are added. We have easy access
to the City, the Mountains, the Lake, as well as
an impressive choice of restaurants with the
development of Halcyon, Vickery Village, and
the soon-to-open Cumming City Center. We are
attracting and keeping more tax revenue within
our borders.
Forsyth is also a manageable sized County,
compared to some of our neighbors. Our
School Board works well with our Business
Community, the Chamber of Commerce,
the County Commissioners, and our local
government has forged a collaborative
relationship with the GA DOT, and State
government, making us eligible for Federal
and State Funds, for example when the
Transportation Bond passed just a few years
ago. We also enjoy one of the lowest Millage
Rates in metro Atlanta, making this a win-win
county for residents.
2022
This all impacts our Real Estate market. So, what
does 2022 hold? The supply chain is still snarled
which is impacting deliverables and impacting
New Construction obviously more than
residential Resales. People have record equity
in their homes, which will most likely stave
off a wave of short sales and foreclosures if the
economy studders. People in distress can simply
sell and preserve their credit. There are plenty of
Buyers, and supply is still not meeting demand.
INTEREST RATES
Interest Rates will be going up. The Federal
Reserve has said so. But it’s important to keep this
in perspective. The average rate over the past 50
years is around 7% for a 30-year fixed rate loan.
There were days in many of our lifetimes where
we saw rates as high as 18%! We’ve been and are
still enjoying record low rates. So, keeping things
in perspective is, even rates at 4% or 5% are a
good deal over the lifetime of a loan, particularly
if you overpay on your mortgage regularly to
accumulate equity in your home faster.
The market has calmed down since the insanity
of the Spring and Summer, which frankly is a good
thing. Currently, it is still a Seller’s market, and
demand out-weighs supply, and that is expected
to continue into 2022. However, it is also an
incredible Buyer-friendly market as Rates are still
excellent, and even with a slow and steady increase,
Homeownership is still a great strategy to set you
on a trajectory of long-term wealth-building.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The bottom line is, all of this impacts us and our
quality of life. Plain and simple, Forsyth County
is an awesome place to live. Yep, we have growing
pains like everyone else, but people are working
together from various branches to move us
forward. People want to move here because of
our schools and attractive lifestyle. Our property
values are strong. Real Estate is a wise investment,
particularly when you buy smart.
Pam Evans is an Associate Broker with Century 21 Results in Cumming and can be reached at 678-778-6551.
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 13

COMING INTO MONEY
2 Crippling Risks and 3 Things You Must Know
For some of us we won’t be so lucky, but for others it could be a Windfall. Suppose you recently discovered that a
significant amount of money is on its way to you or might even be sitting right now in your bank account. Maybe
it’s coming from an inheritance, or else it could be something like a lottery win or insurance payout.
By Kurt Arseneau, Investment Advisor Representative, Registered Financial Consultant
Most people might think it’s exciting but you’re realizing you’ve got some
mixed feelings about it. It’s pretty common to be happy and relieved that you
now have more money, and to be stressed out or worried about how you’re
going to handle it as well.
You have got choices that you probably didn’t have before to make
positive changes to your finances. If you are like many Americans, you have
got debt of some kid. Should you pay off all or portion of it? If you have kids,
should all or portion be set aside for college in some way? Or instead, maybe
this is the time to buy the larger house you have always wanted. Launch your
own business and stop working for “the man.” Travel the world. Take work
break for a little while.
Money that comes suddenly is often spent, seemingly, just as suddenly.
But you don’t want to lose all the money you have just come into. Fortunately,
you can plan how to work with your windfall without spending it all right
away. By avoiding the mistakes that others make and choosing the right
option, you have the chance to make dreams come true.
Although there is plenty of DIY money management advice available,
protecting and preserving sudden wealth is often more complex. How to
invest the money depends on your particular circumstances, the goals you
want to fund, and your tolerance for risk.
One size does not fit all when it comes to managing a windfall! Asking
people who don’t have experience with this kind of money management
could lead to disaster. In addition to money management, you need to
manage expectations, including your own.
CRIPPLING RISK #1 – UNEXPECTEDLY HIGH TAXES
To paraphrase George Carlin, Uncle Sam loves you, and he needs money!
Taxes are often confusing enough, never mind adding a significant amount
14 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

"Smart estate planning is critical, and just
like investments, cookie cutter solutions
will not work. Estate plans and other asset
preservation techniques are very specific
to your circumstances and desires."
of money into the mix. You’re probably already aware that you’ll need to pay
taxes, but how much should you plan for? Not only do your taxes depend
on what type of windfall you are benefiting from, they may also depend on
when you take the distribution.
CRIPPLING RISK #2 – DAMAGING FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Sometimes when a family member comes into money, other members of
the family start lining up with their hands out. Or they resent the newly
wealthy person. You may even know someone whose money caused a big
rift in their relationships, and you don’t want the same thing to happen to
you and your loved ones. There may be fault lines in your relationships that
could crack under pressure of your newfound wealth if you don’t handle
them the right way.
MUST-KNOW # 1 – MONEY CAN BE A DOUBLE EDGED SWORD
A significant amount of money has the power to allow you to live your dreams.
It could be the seed money you need to leave your corporate job and ride out
on your own. Or you may finally have the money you need to enjoy an interest
that you couldn’t indulge while you worked full-time. On the other hand,
without a good plan, you could go bankrupt after receiving the windfall.
MUST-KNOW #2 – A LASTING LEGACY CAN BE YOURS…IF
THE STRATEGY IS RIGHT
You may prefer to make a positive impact on the world with a portion (or
all) of your newfound wealth. Charities, successive generations, educational
institutions, and other groups can benefit from significant donations. You
may also feel compelled to be a good steward of the money for a variety of
reasons, and that’s another way to leave your mark. Most importantly, you
want to use the funds as tax efficiently as possible.
MUST-KNOW #3 – NEW -TO-YOU ASSET PROTECTION
STRATEGIES
Your sudden windfall can potentially help you protect your other assets and
your family as well. There are a number of asset protection strategies for the
wealthy that you may not have had access to before. They require a certain
level of investment that you may now have. Simply having your assets in
your own name may no longer be a good solution. Smart estate planning
is critical, and just like investments, cookie cutter solutions will not work.
Estate plans and other asset preservation techniques are very specific to
your circumstances and desires.
YOU DON’T HAVE TO MAKE THESE CRITICAL CHOICES ALONE
Suddenly coming into a sizable amount of money has the potential to
change your life. Whether the impact is positive or negative is mostly
the result of the choices you make. However, there is a way to use this
money to help you build a lasting and solid foundation for you and
your family.
Our trained financial professionals, attorneys, and tax professionals
have the specific education and experience to know what you don’t.
Rather than provide a cookie cutter solution, we tailor our strategy to
you be your strategy. Reach out today and we will help you sort through
the complexities of sudden wealth, and help you avoid the mistakes
that have resulted in other in similar situations losing money. You are
already made the firs smart decision to read this article. The next wise
step is to contact us to book your free “Sudden Wealth Session.”
Stay well and Healthy! Kurt Arseneau
Investment Advisory Services offered only by duly registered individuals through AE Wealth
Management, LLC(AEWM). AEWM and Arseneau Advisory Group are not affiliated companies.
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 15

Helping Children
Through Divorce
By Tracy Ann Moore-Grant & Lindsey Mart, LPC, CPCS
Many people have the misconception that simply because a divorce has occurred, children in the family
will be negatively impacted in a permanent way. Research shows that children of divorced parents are
at a higher risk of depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, and behavioral problems; however, good
co-parenting between former spouses can significantly reduce these risks and foster resiliency in their
children. Although children are sure to have a period of adjustment, the impact divorce has on them
is largely connected to how the parents choose to handle the divorce and subsequent co-parenting.
Parties who choose to place the children in the center of a contested litigation, bad mouth the other
parent, and have a home filled with conflict are not setting up their children for success. Here are some
tips for creating a positive experience for your children if your family is facing divorce.
16 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

1. PARENTS SHOULD CREATE
A UNITED FRONT.
Parents should be on the same page about when and how the children
learn that a divorce is happening. They should also be prepared to answer
questions about why the divorce is happening and be clear that it is not the
children’s fault. Parents should never blame each other and should always
reassure the children that they are loved and safe and will always be loved
and safe regardless of their parents’ relationship status.
2. PARTIES CAN CHOOSE AN
AMICABLE DIVORCE ROUTE.
People can choose how they want to divorce. The most common types
of people know of are an uncontested divorce (the parties reach their
own agreement an attorney prepares for signature and filing) and a
contested divorce (one party files a divorce against the other and they
take oppositional positions in the court system). Although sometimes
court intervention is necessary in a case, parties should explore an
amicable divorce to see if it will work for their situation. In an amicable
divorce, parties use attorneys in the Amicable Divorce Network who
assist in resolving the case in an out of court and low conflict manner.
The network also has professionals, like parent coordinators, who work
directly with parents to formulate parenting plans and mental health
professionals who can assist individual family members, or the family as
a whole, navigate this life change.
Our Family Wizard which features not only a calendar but a section for
reimbursements, children’s current sizes and medications, and other areas to
keep parents and kids on track.
5. FIND A THERAPIST THAT CAN
HELP YOUR FAMILY COPE.
Divorce is one of the most stressful things a family can go through. The
separating spouses and their children have deeply intense and oftentimes
confusing emotions that can be difficult to talk about with each other. A
licensed and trained counselor can provide a safe space to help the family
name and process their emotions, communicate their thoughts and
feelings in a healthy manner, and adjust well to their new reality. Small
children need to see a play therapist to be able to process their feelings in a
developmentally appropriate way.
3. NEVER TALK NEGATIVELY
ABOUT THE OTHER PARENT.
Parties to a divorce are often hurt, stressed, and angry. These feelings
are understandable and difficult to hide, even around the children.
However, a parent should never blame each other for the divorce or
bad mouth the other parent. Children view themselves as being half of
each parent. When one parent says negative things about the other to
the children, the children begin to think that half of them is flawed in
the eyes of that parent. In addition, talking negatively about the other
parent can make the children feel conflicted and stressed, and they often
feel pressured to choose a side, which can cause anger, resentment, and
psychological confusion.
4. BE ORGANIZED TO LIMIT
CONFLICT.
Adjusting to life with kids in two different households can be difficult.
There are homework assignments, sports practices, and birthday parties
that now must be managed along with a custodial schedule. Lack of
communication and notice of events can lead to arguments between the
parties and the children feeling stressed that they missed team pictures or
are late turning in a project. Parents can utilize a shared Google calendar
to exchange information or look into more advanced technology like
There is no way to change that divorce will
be a difficult time for everyone involved. But
whether this has a long-term negative impact
on children is guided by how the parents
choose to handle the situation. Parents have
every opportunity to set children up for
resiliency and a course of success.
Lindsey Mart, LPC, CPCS, Connected Counseling and Wellness, holds a Master’s degree from Clemson
University in Community Mental Health Counseling and is licensed in both Georgia and South Carolina. In
addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor, Lindsey is also a Certified Professional Counselor
Supervisor and is available for supervision and trainings. www.connectedcw.com
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 17

RESET. REFLECT. RECHARGE.
Start 2022 Strong
By Bernadette Leonard
Let's face it...with everything that has been going on in the
last two years, we all need a pause button. Surviving the
challenges from a pandemic is no easy feat. If anything,
it has brought to light that it is totally normal to feel
overwhelmed, hopeless, anxious, and even disappointed.
Being physically apart from others has made us as
humans grow closer mentally and emotionally. This new
perspective and wisdom gained from this experience
causes a moment of reflection, so we don’t miss the impact
this has made on us all personally and globally, and so that
we may bring ourselves forward. It’s more important now
than ever before to reset, reflect, and recharge.
What do you want to prioritize in your life moving forward? Is it saying
no to things that aren’t important or progressing you? Is it taking the
time to put boundaries in place? Putting a few things into action will
ignite a momentum going into the new year and create crucial space for
you to breathe and reset. Resetting does not have to mean starting from
scratch, it can simply be a re-look, a re-evaluation of what you have and
what you’re currently focusing on.
TO RESET:
• Declutter by practicing mindfulness, cleaning out technology or
household items.
• Get rid of anything that is not adding value.
• Slow down and be intentional about eliminating noise, clutter, and
toxicity around you. Sometimes, it's a thing; and other times it can
be a person.
• Add 15 minutes in your day to prioritize and review your daily
agenda.
• Plan a morning routine.
• Do things you have been putting off. Make those doctor’s
appointments, clean those cabinets - get it done!
Resetting is as much a state of mind as it is tidying up the space
around you. Once you see everything from a fresh slate, you’ll be in
the perfect place to reflect. You’ll be able to notice if those you are
spending time with are adding positive energy to your life and leading
you in the right direction, or if there is something or someone holding
you back. When looking at your reset agenda, would you be able to
say you’re set up for success? Reflect on yourself, but also reflect on
your intentions.
TO REFLECT:
• Take time to write down the blessings around you and people
you are thankful for. Let them know how much you appreciate
them.
• Write down how you’ve grown this past year, and what areas
you would like to grow in this upcoming year.
• Think of one major accomplishment and one challenge, and
how both impacted you.
Reflection highlights our past achievements, emotions and journeys
and brings them into our future selves. We learn from our mistakes
in order to grow today and be better tomorrow. After your reflection,
the next step is to recharge.
TO RECHARGE:
• Be kind to yourself - go get a massage, go on a hike, or read your
favorite book.
• Make a place in your home that is a sanctuary.
• Do one thing you are passionate about.
• Say daily affirmations. Affirmations help you overcome negative
thoughts and produce positive changes. Your mindset dictates
your happiness, so protect it with your words that you feed it.
The most important thing is to write down and say affirmations
that resonate with you. Start with two and say them out loud
every day: I am productive. I am confident. I am positive. I am
doing my best. I use my time wisely.
In the words of Oprah Winfrey, “Be thankful for what you have;
You’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t
have, you will never have enough.” Your heart will only grow in
gratitude for the gifts you’ve been given when you stop for a moment
and reflect. We must recharge ourselves in order to make a change.
My goal in life is to add value to others and to put wisdom into
action. I hope you can find just one small way to reset, reflect and
recharge to start this next year strong
Bernadette Leonard is a beauty salon owner and coach. She is passionate about adding value to the lives around her, continuous growth
and personal relationships.
18 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 19

Read to Me!
by Jacqueline Thompson Graves
A long time ago (15 years ago or so) in a Land Far Away (Lawrenceville,
Georgia, approximately 23 miles from Forsyth county, Georgia, a 17-
hour car trip – pack appropriate snacks) lived two young girls. Since the
Law of Opposites Attract works in friendships just like romance, one
was a bookworm, the other an athlete. One day the athletic girl’s mom
approached the bookworm’s mom with a “deal she just couldn’t refuse”.
“Since I work and you don’t, why don’t I drop my Athlete off at your
Bookworm’s house every morning for an hour before the school bus
comes. Then she can come here after school until her dad and I get home
from work at 7!” So I became the mother of three kids for a season, the
third being immensely easier to acquire than the first two.

As we settled into a routine with our new
adoptee, we learned our version of after school
wasn’t necessarily the norm. Her house said,
“Hi. Here’s an apple. Go outside and play. See
you at dinner.” My house greeted the kids with
a (usually) homemade snack, glass of milk and
BOOK TIME! Whether the kids were more
excited about the cookies or the books I wasn’t
sure, but our new addition was not impressed
that we were all going to sit around the table
while the mommy read a book out loud. “We just
spent all day in school surrounded by books!”
she complained. “It’s time to climb trees.” I
agreed with her. It was time to climb trees, but
first we got an installment of our ongoing story.
It took her several days to stop fussing and
settle down, but eventually she was the one
saying, “Don’t stop. Read another chapter. We
can’t leave her in this mess!”
“One chapter a day. That’s all we read. Now
go climb trees.” No one had ever read to this
Athlete. Not bedtime stories. Not when she was
sick or tired or cranky. Not on her birthday.
Not ever. She delighted in listening to the story,
while creating its scenes and characters in her
imagination, no TV or Disney artists required.
Years later I tutored a boy whose reading
skills were barely passable. “I don’t like books.
They’re boring,” he informed me. Next time
he came I presented him with The Adventures
of Captain Underpants. He and I took turns
reading a couple of paragraphs out loud to each
other and giggling at the crazy antics, pointing
at the kooky illustrations. A natural artist, my
student would draw scenes from the book before
our next session, presenting them to me with a
mischievous grin.
Chances are you’ve got kids in your life. Are you making Readers out of them?
They can still be Athletes or Artists or even things that don’t start with “A”. But
they can also be Readers. Here are some suggestions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Read out loud to them from a very early age. Don’t make the mistake of thinking
you can only read to them on their age level. Vary what you read. Skip around.
Shorten the sentences, but let them hear adult language. One tip for reading a long
newspaper article: read just the first sentence of every paragraph. You should be
able to get the gist of the story this way.
Make books part of a fun bedtime routine. Bedtime should not be a battle, even
if you have a night owl kid. (We had one of each. Our son would put himself to
bed. Our daughter could outlast her dad even when she was very young.) Put on
pajamas. Brush teeth. Say prayers. Snuggle in for a bedtime book. Let the child
choose the book, even if it’s the same book every night. Some kids like variety. For
others, the same book is part of a soothing, relaxing routine.
Read a chapter of an ongoing fiction story. When the kids are old enough, they
may want to take a turn reading, especially if they like speaking in funny voices.
This can be an after school routine, after dinner, sometime each Sunday or
whatever works in your family. When my kids were young, we read several of
Gertrude Chandler Warner’s Boxcar Children books mainly because they were my
favorites when I was young. This series shows kids solving their own problems and
mysteries and children love it.
Ask them to read to you as soon as they are old enough. Someday, somewhere,
at school or work, your child is going to be asked to read aloud. Why not practice?
A fun place to start where messing up is expected and funny is reading Dr. Suess’s
Oh Say Can You Say? – a book of hilarious tongue twisters (bed spreaders spread
spreads on beds but butter spreaders spread butter on bread – say that 3 times fast).
Don’t feel like you have to finish every book. You don’t get a star on a cosmic book
chart somewhere for finishing a boring book. If your child isn’t interested in what is
unfolding, let him pick another book. Take her to the library – that vast candy store
of words on paper with art covers – to do her own choosing.
Christmas is coming. Want a great gift idea? Gift your kid a magazine subscription.
“You’ve got mail!” are some of the best words in the world to a kid. Heck, those
are great words to an adult if it’s real mail and not junk or bills. (Maybe that’s why
everyone likes Amazon.) Do they have a hobby? There’s a magazine for it. Animals,
even just cats, just dogs, just horses – there’s a magazine for it. Zoobooks has
articles and photos of all kinds of animals. Cricket magazine offers poetry and short
stories for kids. You may have read Highlights for Children when you were growing
up. It’s still being published. Got an athlete? Try Sports Illustrated for Kids. Chances
are there will be a feature on his or her hero of the moment.
If they are school age, be sure to participate in the Book Fair held at their school.
Even if it’s just one book each time, it’s a special thing for a child to have her own
little library. Perhaps allow him to earn the money for books by doing an extra,
age-appropriate chore for a week.
Next summer, host a book swap party with the kids in your neighborhood. Have
some snacks, read a short book out loud (Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No
Good, Very Bad Day is a favorite and everyone can say it with you by the end),
then allow the kids to swap. You’ll have to devise some kind of currency system
or draw for order of choice since everyone may want the same book or two, but
if you’ve ever been to an adult swap of any type you can figure it out. Or you can
consult the internet for ideas.
Of course, there are electronic readers, but kids get enough screen time, in my
humble opinion. I’m an advocate for giving them a paper book. Stick it in your back
pocket, climb that tree, cradle yourself in its branches, then pull out that book, sit a
spell and read to the tree!
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
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 21

INTERVIEW
We’ve partnered with The Place of Forsyth County for many projects
including organizing and giving out the food to those in need. We
donated a van to the North Georgia Homeless shelter which enabled the
director of the shelter to help men gain employment by driving them to
their interviews and to work.
L: What advice would I give to parents about instilling in their children
the importance of giving back
K: Set the example, let them see you as the parent giving of your time
and money to many different programs who help the less fortunate.
L: How would you rank Forsyth County’s level of generosity on a scale
of 1 to 10 and why?
K: Forsyth county has without a doubt the most generous residents of
almost anyplace I have ever lived, I would give Forsyth County a big 10.
We could not do the many projects that we do without the generosity
of the people of this county. We are constantly thanked for our service,
and people dig down in their pockets and donate very generously to our
requests, and we use their gifts wisely and carefully because of the trust
these residents have given us by their donations
LOCAL VIETNAM VETERAN
KIRBY GATHERS HIS TROOPS
TO GIVE BACK TO
FORSYTH COUNTY
An interview by Amy Lyle
L: You personally do a lot of things for our community, and you’ve
organized your fellow Vietnam Veterans to help with some very special
causes, what motivates you to give back?
K: What motivates me, and I believe most of my fellow veterans is that
we all served our country in a time of war, we saw poverty, people dying,
children going hungry, families torn apart, all of these things leave a
lasting thought in your mind. We were all trained to serve our country
during a time of war, and for most of us our service to our country
has never ended, so when we are involved with the many community
projects that we do, we see it as serving our country.
For example, we are so fortunate to have Steve Masak, a decorated
helicopter pilot, who dedicates his time every weekend to raise money for
our many causes. Another example is a guy by the name of Marty Farrell,
a former national news commentator. He runs our college scholarship
program. Every year, Marty and his committee choose five students
to receive a $2000.00 scholarship. The scholarships are dedicated to a
Georgia veteran who lost his life serving our country, and the families
of each veteran, who the scholarship is dedicated to and is invited to the
presentation ceremony. These are just a couple of examples of the things
that we do.
L: Every time I volunteer, I feel like I get back more than I give, do you
think that is a universal truth?
K: Anytime that I or the many guys at the VVA volunteer for a project,
we walk away knowing we helped someone, there is no feeling like giving
of yourself to help others. I do think this is universal, in my travels all
over the world I have seen much sharing and giving by people of all
nations, the feeling is the same, you can’t outgive God, the more you give
the more comes back to you, that is not what motivates people, it’s just
the result of sharing
L: If a veteran would like to join the team, how would he reach you?
K: Anyone who served during the Vietnam war, either in the US or
around the world is eligible to join our group. You can contact
me Tom Kirby at 856-952-0820 or the president of the
Vietnam Veterans of America chapter 1030 Gary Goyette
at 717-579-1427
L: What are some of your proudest moments of serving the community?
K: One of my proudest moments is buying toys for kids at Christmas
time, we all know that some kids that have little at Christmas will have a
smile from the presents that we purchased.
22 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 23

Everyone is a Work of Art
GREGORY JOHNSON KNOWS
MODERN SCULPTURE IS GENERALLY DESCRIBED AS THE CREATION OF A VITAL SYNTHESIS
OF OPACITY AND TRANSPARENCY, VOLUME AND VOID.
ONE LOOK AT THE ARTISTRY OF GREGORY JOHNSON BRINGS TO REALITY THE BEAUTY OF
MODERN SCULPTURE. JOHNSON’S EXQUISITE DEPICTION OF FAMOUS FACES, CHILDREN
AT PLAY AND NATURE BRING A SENSE OF JOY TO ALL WHO SEE HIS WORK.
“I recently had the opportunity to work on a sculpture of former Ambassador
Andrew Young,” Johnson explained during a recent visit to his Forsyth County
studio. “He came to see the sculpture and was pleased with what he saw.”
I was in awe of the painstaking detail in every aspect of the sculpture.
From how hands were folded, to the drape of a coat, Johnson’s elaborate
research, documentation and attention to detail gives way to a truly
magnificent piece of art.
Working with clay and various tools, Johnson’s hands mold every piece of
clay to perfection. Molding and bronze casting are completed at the foundry.
“Sculptures of families are captured mostly from photos. Input from family
members is essential in creating the best sculpture possible,” Johnson explained.
Johnson’s masterpieces can be found in various locations throughout
Georgia, United States and the world, including the Collection of Collegedale
Veterans Park in Tennessee, at the Blue Ridge-Fannin County Veteran’s Memorial
Park, and the Cumming-Forsyth Heritage Gardens in the City of Cumming.
“All works are made of high chromium stainless steel and are either
mirror polished or brushed textured finish. Monumental commissions are
invited,” Johnson added.
With a portfolio of nearly a thousand works, globally commissioned
and internationally recognized sculptor Gregory Johnson’s art touches
hundreds of lives each day.
"I view life as a journey that comes full circle. Born in Chicago, my interest
in art started at the age of 5. I went from sculpting and smoothing dirt in a
tree well to now smoothing stainless steel sculptures. I’ve always been detail
oriented and have enjoyed building unique things that challenge our mind
and boundaries."
"My art, which is now in 1500 collections located in over 44 States and seven
countries has shaped the journey of millions of people each day, all while
bringing a few smiles along the way. And taking you the viewer on a right
line that comes full circle."
770-887-1561
MODERN WORKS www.moderngj.com
TRADITIONAL www.gregoryjohnson.biz
24 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 25

FORSYTH FOODIE
FOUNTAIN’S FOOD ADVENTURES
SUGO
By David Fountain
Through the doors of Sugo, you experience a warm, inviting atmosphere. Sugo is a Castellucci
family business, who have contributed to the restaurant business for over 100 years. Many
loyal guests frequent Sugo for the traditional Mediterranean Fare. They look forward to
favorites such as the smoked Hanger Steak complemented with gigande beans, mushrooms,
aged feta, roasted red peppers and arugula and the classic Aunt Lena’s Chicken made with
caramelized onions, mozzarella, spinach, garganelli, dates, and pink crème sherry sauce.
The name Sugo comes from the Castellucci family tradition of gathering and each bringing an item
from their garden to add to their grandmother’s sauce. Just as the family brings something to the
sauce, they all bring something to the business. We were honored to learn more about Sugo and
the family history from Mr. Frederico Castellucci II, also known as Mr. C.
26 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

Mr. C was born to an Italian father and Greek
mother and grew up helping his family in their
restaurant, The Italian GI Club pizzeria in Rhode
Island. When they were hit with a tragedy and the
restaurant burned down, Mr. C returned from
college to take it over. He renamed the pizzeria
Archie’s, which became very successful, giving
him the opportunity to open other locations.
In the 1990’s, challenging business caused
Mr. C and his wife Nancy to move the family to
Atlanta. After opening a restaurant called Roasted
Garlic and making a success, they opened Sugo
in 2003 in Roswell. It didn’t take long for Mr. C
and Nancy’s children to become restauranteurs of
their own as Frederico Castellucci III took over
Sugo with the help of his sister Stephanie and
brother John, making it a huge success at its new
Johns Creek location.
The eatery has an extensive menu of family
creations handed down from ancestors and
cuisines developed by his sons and Executive
Chef Ricardo Soto. Speaking of these mouthwatering
recipes, a couple Antipasti standouts
on the menu are the Meatball Al Sugo consisting
of Italian Sausage, roasted tomatoes, caramelized
onions, dates, tomato basil sauce, and pecorino
and the Maialino Flatbread with slow roasted
pork, walnut pesto, arugula, ricotta salata, roasted
tomato, and white balsamic reduction.
Mr. C is rightfully proud of Sugo and his
children’s hard work and determination as they
focus on treating their workers and customers
with respect. Frederico Castellucci III and his
siblings have gone on to open several prosperous
restaurants making up the Castellucci Hospitality
Group (CHG)- The Iberian Pig, Recess, Double
Zero, Cooks & Soldiers, Bar Mercado and
opening soon is Mujo.
The Castellucci family has established a
wonderful array of restaurants and implemented
a culture of people who go above and beyond for
their customers. If you have a chance to try Sugo
or one of the many restaurants from CHG, you
will not be disappointed.
SUGO RESTAURANT
sugorestaurant.com
10305 Medlock Bridge Rd.
Johns Creek, GA 30097
770-817-8000
David Fountain is a local food enthusiast and our community’s Best of Forsyth Financial Planner
and Investment Advisor. You can reach him at foodie@fountainsfoodadventures.com
VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 27

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One visit to the Vickery Village store and you can see firsthand
the variety of toys, gifts, puzzles and activities that are certain to
entertain children for countless hours.
Our toy selection is always being refreshed!” Hoffman added.
We guarantee you’ll love our charming store. We offer a personal
shopping experience. We have a friendly, knowledgeable staff that
love to provide complimentary gift wrapping.”
GROWTH HAS ITS PERKS
Recently, Hoffman expanded their offerings and became the
owner, along with her husband Charles, of the Learning Express
Toys & Gifts located in Alpharetta.
“At Learning Express Toys & Gifts, we aim to provide our
customers with a lively, interactive shopping experience that
delights the young and the young at heart,” Hoffman explained.
30 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

LET YOUR INNER KID
COME BACK TO LIFE!
Visit Wheezy’s or Learning Express.
Wheezy’s and Learning Express are a match made in toy heaven,
where a hub of activity where you’ll find kids, and adults, playing
around!
A FUN SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Creativity abounds at Wheezy’s. From making your own posters,
jewelry and crafts to science experiments and terrariums, the
choices are limitless.
NOT SURE WHAT TO GET FOR
A BIRTHDAY PARTY?
“Our staff is readily available to help you chose gifts for birthdays
and any other event,” Hoffman added.
WHEEZY’S TOY BOUTIQUE
5806 North Vickery Street
Cumming, GA 30040
678-341-9182
LEARNING EXPRESS
TOYS & GIFTS
7300 North Point Pkwy
Alpharetta, GA, 30022
770-740-1523

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VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 33

Bonding with Baby at Birth
and Postpartum:
A Midwife's Perspective
By Emily Dixon, CNM, FNP
Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting time
for parents. Often times, new parents may feel uncertain
on how to best bond with their baby. The tips given in this
article are applicable both in the hospital and at home.
As midwives, we are strong advocates for early mother and
baby bonding. This includes immediate skin to skin after delivery,
if medically safe. Skin to skin means placing the baby directly onto
the mother's bare chest in an upright position, with the baby's head
turned to the side for easy breathing, and blankets placed over the
baby's body. This helps promote breastfeeding while also keeping
baby's temperature, heart rate, and breathing regulated. Additionally
skin to skin lowers the level of stress hormones, soothing both
mother and baby. Other family members and parents can use skin
to skin to bond with the baby as well.
Rooming-in is another way to bond with your baby. Roomingin
allows the family and newborn to become familiar with one
another. Additionally, when mother and baby are sharing a room,
the baby will often cry less, be soothed easily, and breastfeed more
frequently. To practice rooming-in safely, baby should have their own
crib or bassinet to sleep in and be within arm’s reach of the mother.
Rooming-in reduces the risk of SIDS and actually allows both mother
and baby to sleep better.
Finally, encouraging breastfeeding as often and for as long
as possible is another way for mothers to bond with their babies.
Exclusively breastfeeding is recommended until baby is six months
old. Breastfeeding has many benefits such as strengthening the baby’s
immune system and reducing the baby’s risk of obesity, asthma,
allergies, and diabetes. Breastfeeding also has benefits to mom as
well, including reducing the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
There are so many wonderful ways to bond with your baby. As
Midwives, one of our greatest roles is helping new moms with this
transition and supporting them with whatever they need.
Modern OBGYN has three convenient office locations. Visit our newest office at Avalon in Alpharetta located at
2710 Old Milton Parkway Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30009. For more information on our practice and providers,
visit www.reyesobgyn.com.
Emily Dixon, a dual certified nurse-midwife and family nurse practitioner, has a compassionate
approach and is dedicated to being an advocate for her patients. She believes in being a partner
alongside her patients, empowering and supporting them through education and collaborative care.
34 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

KEIANNA HALEY, CNM

By Weston Waxweiler, Md, Faad
PSORIASIS
With the days getting shorter and the daily temperatures starting to drop, it is evident that the Fall and Winter season are upon
us. Dry winter air, from both from the cold outside and the heater running inside, can wreak havoc on skin. Unfortunately,
this change in humidity and ambient temperature can exacerbate one of the more common dermatologic diseases we see:
psoriasis. Let’s discuss some general tips to teach you about what psoriasis is and how to treat it when it does show up.
WHAT IS PSORIASIS?
Psoriasis is a condition in which skin cells build up
and form scales and itchy, dry patches. Psoriasis
is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with
no cure. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a
few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while
or going into remission. Psoriasis is thought to be
an immune system problem that causes the skin
to regenerate at faster than normal rates. In the
most common type of psoriasis, known as plaque
psoriasis, this rapid turnover of cells results in
scales and red patches.
Just what causes the immune system to
malfunction isn't entirely clear. Researchers
believe both genetics and environmental factors
play a role. The condition is not contagious.
WHAT DOES PSORIASIS
LOOK LIKE ON MY SKIN?
Psoriasis signs and symptoms can vary from
person to person. Common signs and
symptoms include:
• Red patches of skin covered with thick,
silvery scales
• Small scaling spots (commonly seen
in children)
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed or itch
• Itching, burning or soreness
• Thickened, pitted or ridged nails
• Swollen and stiff joints.
Psoriasis patches can range from a few spots of
dandruff-like scaling to major eruptions that
cover large areas. The most commonly affected
areas are the lower back, elbows, knees, legs, soles
of the feet, scalp, face and palms.
WHAT CAUSES PSORIASIS?
Many people who are predisposed to psoriasis
may be free of symptoms for years until the
disease is triggered by some environmental
factor. Common psoriasis triggers include:
• Infections, such as strep throat or skin infections
• Weather, especially cold, dry conditions
• Injury to the skin, such as a cut or scrape,
a bug bite, or a severe sunburn
• Stress
• Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Certain medications — including
lithium, high blood pressure medications
and antimalarial drugs
• Rapid withdrawal of oral or systemic
corticosteroids
If you have psoriasis, you're at greater risk
of developing other conditions, including:
• Psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain,
stiffness and swelling in and around the joints
• Eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis,
blepharitis and uveitis
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular disease
• Other autoimmune diseases, such as celiac
disease, sclerosis and the inflammatory
bowel disease called Crohn's disease
• Mental health conditions, such as low
self-esteem and depression
Most types of psoriasis go through cycles, flaring
for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a
time or even going into remission.
Psoriasis treatments aim to stop skin cells
from growing so quickly and to remove scales.
Options include creams and ointments (topical
therapy), light therapy (phototherapy), and
oral or injected medication. Which treatments
you use depends on how severe the psoriasis
is and how responsive it has been to previous
treatment. You might need to try different drugs
or a combination of treatments before you find an
approach that works for you. Usually, however,
the disease returns if untreated.
Cleaver Medical Group is now enrolling
patients in several psoriasis and atopic
dermatitis trials. These trials help to elucidate
causes of, further treatments for, and
monitor safety of medications in patients
with psoriasis. Patients are compensated for
their time and effort, and by participating we
further the field of dermatologic medicine.
Please contact us at Cleaver Medical Group
(770 800 3455) if interested in joining
one of our dermatologic studies for both
psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or melanoma.
As always, consult with a board-certified
dermatologist for further details on any of the
above topics.
Take care!
Cleaver Medical Group
Dr. Weston T. Waxweiler M.D., FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Waxweiler is originally from Duluth GA and graduated from
Duluth High School. He completed his undergraduate degree with honors at Davidson College on a full-scholarship. While an undergraduate,
Dr. Waxweiler developed a desire to practice medicine while working on a medical study-abroad trip in Kikuyu, Kenya. He then went on
to medical school at the Medical College of Georgia where he graduated with honors as well. Dr. Waxweiler completed his dermatologic
residency at the University of California Irvine where he gained extensive experience with skin cancer, pediatric dermatology, and cosmetics.
36 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 37

Please
DON’T
Pass the Salt
By Narendra Singh, MD
This year two major studies conducted in China helped us
understand much more about hypertension and how best
to manage it.
Hypertension is the most common
cardiovascular risk factor and
increases with age. However as individuals
get older they also become more sensitive to
medications often used for the treatment of
high blood pressure. It therefore has not been
clear what an appropriate blood pressure target
should be in individuals over the age of 60. In
the STEP study over 8500 individuals between
the ages of 60-80 were randomized to intensive
treatment control ( keeping systolic BP between
110-130mm Hg) versus standard control
(keeping systolic BP between 130-150mm
Hg). Three types of blood pressure medication
were used—angiotensin receptor blockers
(ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and
thiazide diuretics. Over a 3.3 year follow up the
intensive care arm had 33% less strokes, 33%
less heart attacks, 73% less heart failure events
and 28% less cardiac deaths. These impressive
findings were delivered safely with the only
significant adverse outcome being hypotension
( blood pressure dropping below 100 mmHg)
that did not result in any increased dizziness,
fainting or fractures.
Its time to become much more aggressive
about blood pressure lowering. These
lower targets often can be achieved by 2-3
medications usually just taken once a day.
Monitoring at home with phone based apps
worked just as well as the traditional office
based blood pressure checks for most people.
Medications, however, should never be
first line therapy. Exercise, weight loss and a
healthy diet can help reduce blood pressure
significantly. The biggest dietary culprit is
salt Salt is a preservative and therefore found
in almost all processed foods. It can’t be
avoided but consuming more fresh fruits and
vegetables can reduce your exposure to these
hidden salt sources. Discretionary salt – what
you add to your cooking or meal is under
your control.
The second study from China called SSaSS
followed 21,000 villagers over 4.7 years. Half
the population used regular salt while the other
half used a salt substitute consisting of 75%
sodium and 25% potassium. The group using
the salt substitute had 14% less strokes, 13% less
heart attacks and a 12% lower chance of dying.
Again this impressive result was delivered very
safely with only 4% of individuals getting a
high potassium reading.
It is estimated that almost 2 million heart
attacks, strokes and deaths a year could be
averted world wide if we adopted the use of
simple salt sustitutes. Change does not come
easy. We need more salt manufacturers and
retailers to offer salt substitutes. We need
the food processing industry to reformulate
products. We need governments to create
policies that encourage the use of salt
substitutes and we need you the consumer to
cook, season and preserve foods with a salt
substitute rather than regular salt.
We have done a great job in this country
of reducing the burden of illness that comes
from tobacco. Lets do an equally impressive
job of eradicating the sickness that too much
salt brings.
NARENDRA SINGH, MD,
FRCP(C), FACC, FAHA
Clinical Assistant Professor, Medical College
of Georgia at Augusta University,
Director, Clinical Research
Director, Clinical Research, NSC Research,
Atlanta, GA
Director, Canadian Collaborative Research
Network
Affiliated with North Atlanta Heart and
Vascular Center
1400 Northside Forsyth Dr. | Suite 340
Cumming GA 30041
5400 Laurel Springs Pkwy. | Suite 1401
Johns Creek GA 30024.
678-208-0165
DrSingh@nsccardiology.com
heartdrsingh.com
38 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

Sanitize your Glasses to
Avoid Contamination Risks
How to safely sanitize your glasses to cut your COVID-19 risk is something
we should all worry about. The best way to do this is no different than
cleaning our hands. Using hot water and lotion-free soap will do the trick.
Don't use disinfectant wipes to clean your glasses. They may ruin your lenses.
Stay away from household glass cleaners as they have chemicals in them that can damage
certain lens coatings. Also, do not use soaps that have those abrasive beads in them. Simple
soap and hot water will clean the lenses, remove bacteria and viruses, and be safe for all parts
of the glasses.
Another option is a diluted solution (70%) of isopropyl alcohol. It should not pose any issues to
good-quality lenses. Be careful as it can remove some ink and dyes from the frame.
How often should you sanitize your glasses? Once a day.
Protect your glasses from contamination risks by keeping them clean.
Mira Sivan OD, AAOMC | Optometrist and Orthokeratologist
5851 S. Vickery St. | Cumming GA 30040
678-648-5185 | www.fyeo-eyecare.com
40 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 41

Try Something New:
SET THE INTENTION TO BE MINDFUL
By Ashley Baer
As a new year begins, it is normal to take stock of life. Instead of setting resolutions,
set an intention to be more mindful and present for your life. Where can you bring
in moments of stillness into your life?
We choose how we show up to this life. I choose to start each morning
with the practice of finding stillness by sitting with myself for a few
minutes to connect with my breath before going about my day.
While we are called human beings, we are more like human “doings”
moving through life on autopilot in an endless flurry of busyness often
unaware of one moment to the next. There are small changes one can
make to live a life more mindfully.
While sitting still may look like nothing, it is actually everything.
Research has shown that just five minutes of mindful breathing rewires
the brain by boosting its function, improving mood, boosting immunity,
and reducing stress and anxiety.
Instead of reaching for the phone, and connecting with the outside
world, try setting the intention to mindfully connect with yourself. (Set the
timer for five minutes, and turn the phone over so you won’t be distracted)
• Find a place where you can sit comfortably, sitting up tall, hands
in the lap or on the belly.
• Closing the eyes or gazing downward begin noticing the breath
coming into your nose.
• Follow the breath in and out.
• Take five deep breaths and as you inhale making sure the ribs,
lungs, and belly all expand as if you have a balloon inside. As you
exhale, the body softens and relaxes.
• Bring gratitude into your practice as you breathe.
• Notice any emotions or thoughts and let them move through you.
• Set an intention for how you want the day to flow.
Follow along with my “Morning Practice for Five Intentional
Breaths” at: http://insig.ht/gm_181881
ASHLEY BAER is a meditation teacher on the app Insight Timer. To learn more, visit her page:
http://insig.ht/ashleybaer
42 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 43

TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS
to Overcome Stress for a Happier Life
By Christine M. Roberts
Stress is often linked to inefficient time
management, and it’s unsurprising that this
leads to imbalance, fatigue, and excessive
anxiety. What if I told you that almost everyone
struggles with time management at some point
and it’s possible to overcome?
Good time management can reduce the
symptoms of stress and restore balance
to your life.
Reversing the effects of stress increases happiness
and improves your overall wellbeing. I can help
you cut through the noise and learn ways to
manage your time while lowering stress for a
happier life.
Certainly, it’s not possible to save time
since we can only spend it, and therein lies the
key. Spending your time wisely to establish a
routine takes practice and patience. These time
management tips will help you get back on track
to tackle your day:
Go to bed at the same time every night.
It’s important to prioritize rest in order to reduce
stress and maintain your health. Practicing this
habit will leave you feeling refreshed, happier, and
ready to meet the challenges of each day.
within your space. Ensure that surface areas, such
as tables and desktops, are free of clutter and that
all items are easy to access with a place to store
them (this also applies to digital spaces).
Create a daily “to-do” list. You should
prioritize all tasks or events by order of
importance and set time limits on less important
tasks. This will allow you to plan ahead, dodge any
distractions that may arise during the day, and
track your accomplishments. Also, make sure to
reward yourself for these daily accomplishments
to achieve momentum, balance, and satisfaction.
Don’t overextend yourself. Being selfaware
and knowing your limits are essential
sources of strength and relief. It’s perfectly okay
to stick to your schedule and say “no” when you
don’t have space to add on to your to-do list. This
is especially important to avoid sensory overload
while minimizing stress and maintaining your
current commitments.
Focus on one goal at a time. Be realistic when
setting personal or professional goals, so that you
can commit to them and then focus on the results.
You’ll be able to pace yourself while increasing the
chance of success and feeling of empowerment.
Learn to unplug and unwind. Set aside a
few minutes at the end of each day to simply relax,
clear your mind, and recharge. This means no
screens, or distractions of any kind. The mental
and physical benefits will be noticeable, and you’ll
be able to think clearer afterward.
One final mini tip: For any task that takes
less than five minutes to complete, be sure to
do it immediately, and it will add value to your
daily life.
These small and simple changes will add up
to positive results and renew your sense of
balance in life. Balance creates resilience and
joy, which enable you to overcome anything
that comes your way. When you implement
any or all of these practices to own your time
schedule, you’ll notice a decrease in stress
and experience some peace and happiness
throughout your day. Believe in yourself and
you can create your best life.
For additional support or resources to
help you along life’s journey, explore
our mindset and coaching programs at
www.ChristineMRoberts.com to discover
how you can create your best life!
Declutter and organize your environment.
It’s a good practice to clear all obstacles, tangible
and intangible, to prepare for your day, boost
productivity, and establish a sense of control
Christine is a speaker, success coach and author. She speaks or organizations on
leadership, company culture, time-management and more. Also, consider working
with her for group or 1:1 coaching to increase productivity, gain more time, and
maximize the results in your life.
44 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 45

Mindful
MINUTE
BY KATIE NEWMAN, LCSW
Leaving the Red Zone
As we think about our favorite team getting in the End Zone this weekend, let’s think about
another Zone. When we’re stressed or upset, we can get in a place that we are reactive,
worrisome and impulsive—the Red Zone. When we’re calm, cool and focused, we’re in the
Green Zone. When you notice your body and mind moving into the Red Zone:
• Exhale slowly several times.
• Relax the tension in your body
• Think of someone who helps you feel cared about
• Look for small, wholesome pleasures
• Find your priority in the stressful situation and make a plan.
As you settle down and feel better, stay with these feelings and take them into yourself.
Remember, try to guide yourself rather than criticize yourself out of the Red Zone. Sure,
recognize your mistakes, learn from them, and make amends or repairs as best you can.
Talk to yourself like a supportive, direct and honest friend, coach, or therapist. Notice how
self-guidance feels better than self-criticism, it is more effective and it helps get you to the
Green Zone.
No matter how often your team gets in the end zone this season, may you have a fun-filled
time cheering and celebrating!

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 47

CONNECTING
WITH YOUR
TEENAGER
A Daily Duty
By Jeff Mogan
Corner Farms
48 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

I OFTEN GET CALLS FROM PARENTS WHO ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THEIR TEENAGERS.
THEY RAISE CONCERNS ABOUT COMMUNICATING WITH THEIR KIDS WHO SEEM TO ALWAYS
BE ON THEIR PHONES, IN THEIR ROOMS AND SIMPLY NOT TALKING. “MY KID IS ACTING OUT!”
Things are different these days. Electronics, schoolwork, demands on time, success, crisis. A myriad of things
pulling our teens, and us, in so many directions.
It is obvious that while we all strive to communicate with our kids, how may become a challenge. Are we asking
too many questions? Do we understand why they are acting up? Is it my fault? How can I help?
Connection is the most important part of being able to convey a consequence. Without connection, how can
there be consequences?
As I work with teens and parents, I always want to offer some solutions to what the problem is, but first I think
it’s important to get stable before we can talk solutions. Being stable, I believe, means strong connection to each
other, without a connection to the problem.
How do we do that? The best way is to try and get your teen to stop doing life alone.
What do I mean by doing life alone? It’s doing life without the opportunity to speak openly to others, to connect
with others that our teen feels safe connecting with. That should be us as parents. If we are not a safe place for
them to open up to, they will find someone who is available to them.
Below are some simple steps to conquer a disconnected teen. Perhaps they can help you connect with your teen.
STEPS TO CONNECT
1) Be Present.
Spending time with your teen doesn’t mean doing something or accomplishing a task. Just be present. If you
aren’t available, they will find someone who is. If you can’t, find groups or agencies teaching positive life skills
to other teens to connect with yours.
2) Stop persecuting.
You aren’t a safe place to talk to about anything if everything they talk about you tell them they are wrong or not
doing it right.
3) Problem Solve the right way.
Teens aren’t problem solvers; they don’t have the years of experience we do. Let them talk to you about a
problem, but wait, don’t have the answer. Let them come up with the answer, and if it doesn’t work, back them
up to try again. Practice makes perfect, let them practice problem solving.
4) Consequences.
There can’t be consequences unless they are agreed to and set up before the problem comes up. Set your
consequences to any action before the action. Have your teen agree so they aren’t surprised when it happens.
Speeding causes, them to get a speeding ticket. That law is known. Your laws should be known also, before they
break it. It also helps to punish your teen with them. If they aren’t part of the punishment, they may not be a
part of the outcome of that punishment.
5) Emotions.
When your teen does something wrong, your emotions don’t matter. They aren’t there to help you feel better.
Take your emotions to someone that can help you with those, and please stop trying to make your decisions
about problems while you are emotional.
6) Connection
There are agencies, groups and nonprofits all around us specifically designed to help us connect and get our kids
connected. Try the ones we suggest and let us know which ones are working for you so we can learn about them
and use them ourselves.
These are just a few examples of strategies that work at getting connected. Let’s go on a journey together. Over
the coming issues, we will explore the ways to connect with your teen and how to get your teen connected with
you and others.
Together we can help each other find solutions. We don’t need to do this alone. If you need
immediate help, visit www.cornerfarmsforsyth.com or call us at 770-355-2755.

50 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 51

WHAT OIL SHOULD I
USE IN MY VEHICLE?
By Tom Burgess, Owner, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming GA
Conventional oil, synthetic, synthetic blend, high
mileage oil – what should I be using in my vehicle?
And what weight oil? It all seems so confusing – but
it doesn’t need to be. First let’s look at the different
types of oil.
Conventional oil is simply oil that comes from the ground – it’s
all we had for many years. Full synthetic oil is man made and
although it can originate from conventional oil, it can also be
fully man-made from various compounds and is more pure than
conventional oil.
Synthetic blend or Semi Synthetic oil is simply that – a blend
of both types of oil so you get some of the benefits of synthetic
oil but at a lower cost as it is mixed with conventional oil. High
Mileage oil has additives to protect your seals. And that’s basically
it for types of oil. Anything else you read is marketing.
SO WHICH OIL TO USE?
Let’s start with conventional oil. If you are very good about
changing your oil regularly, and don’t mind changing your oil
more often, there is nothing wrong with conventional oil. It
will do the job. Synthetic oil allows you to go further between oil
changes because it doesn’t break down and use up additives as
quickly as conventional oil. And it’s basically better in all ways – it
resists sludging up in your engine, it doesn’t break down at higher
temperatures, it coats better, it’s better in cold weather, and it will
keep your engine cleaner. The only downside is that it costs more.
Synthetic blend oil sounds like the best of both worlds, but
there is a catch – there are no regulations that specify how much
synthetic oil has to be included to call the oil a blend. In theory,
a manufacturer could add an ounce of synthetic oil to a 55 gallon
drum of conventional oil and call it a blend.
TAKEAWAY? DON’T BUY CHEAP
SYNTHETIC OIL AND THINK YOU ARE
COVERED FOR 5000 MILES.
The same goes for ‘High Mileage’ oil. I think it is a gimmick more
than anything as there are no requirements as to what additives
need to be included for it to be labeled as ‘High Mileage’. As far
as what weight to use, that’s easy – follow the manufacturers
recommendations as they know best. Some manufacturers
demand an oil weight that is only found in fully synthetic oils – so
that makes everything easy.
Overall, we recommend a full synthetic oil or a high quality
blend to our customers. You don’t have to change them as often,
they are much more forgiving if you go further than recommended
between changes, and they will keep stay cleaner longer. One
important thing to consider – your oil filter will often be the
limiting factor in how protected your engine is from particulates
that damage moving parts. Don’t go cheap on the oil filter, it is not
worth saving a few dollars and risking your engine.
Finally, I’d like to mention two of the common mis-perceptions
when it comes to engine oil. The first is the color of the oil - if it is black
that’s not an indication that it needs to be changed. Oil gets black as
it does its job – it doesn’t mean it has reached end-of-life. And people
often ask if they can switch between synthetic and conventional oil.
Rest assured there is no problem switching between the two types of
oil – your car doesn’t know what was in it before and the two oils will
mix just fine, so you can switch back and forth with no issues. Bottom
line - oil is the lifeblood of your engine – don’t skimp and always
change it and the filter at the recommended interval.
52 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 53

Remember
NOT TO FORGET
By Maria I. Morgan
I love the book of Joshua. Joshua has succeeded
Moses as leader of the children of Israel by this time
(a challenging job, no doubt!). The people are poised
on the brink of entering the Promised Land. Chapter 4
sheds light on something God felt was important for the
Israelites—remembering.
Twelve memorial stones were to be taken from the
Jordan River and set up in Gilgal. Why? So when future
generations asked why the stones were set up, the people
could share the goodness of God:
Israel came over this Jordan on dry land. For the Lord
your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you,
until ye were passed over, as the Lord your God did to the
Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were
gone over: That all the people of the earth might know the
hand of the Lord, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the
Lord your God for ever. Joshua 4:22b-24; KJV
Remembering all the Lord did for them served to keep
the people humble and grateful. And helped them
spread the truth about the God they worshipped.
Remembering all the things the Lord has done in our
own lives is crucial for us too.
It helps us have the right view of who God is:
For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be
feared above all gods. Psalm 96:4
It reminds us He is always with us:
…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake
thee. Hebrews 13:5b
It reinforces our trust in Him:
But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my
trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.
Psalm 73:28
It challenges us to talk about how He has provided:
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly
above all that we ask or think... Ephesians 3:20
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GOD AT WORK
IN YOUR LIFE RECENTLY? Write it down so
you will remember. And then share it with someone
else so they can experience the goodness of our
Heavenly Father.
54 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 55

The Country Preacher
By Rev. David Hill
For a short time at the end of the 1960s I was
the pastor of a church deep in the hills of West
Virginia coal mining country. My wife had just
given birth to our third child and was very ill.
Her weight dropped from 125 to 85 pounds.
Local doctors couldn’t determine the illness
source. Later she was diagnosed with Addison’s
disease and we were advised to live in a larger
town where the doctors and hospitals saw
more patients with rare diseases.
During my ministry in the small coal
mining town of under 3,500, I learned
valuable lessons. Not all of God’s people fit
into the patterns described in our college
books. The two doctors in town were
respected but for different reasons. The “old
doc” was the one who had delivered many of
our church members when they were born
but his knowledge of new medicines and
methods were dated. The good looking young
doctor was versed in the newest techniques
and medical breakthroughs though he had
no qualms about discussing the condition of
the last patient he examined. The distraction
of his tobacco chewing made you feel worse.
He was also our Mayor and the only person in
town who traveled by helicopter.
Have you ever thought how different the
disciples were that Jesus chose? Peter and
Andrew had been disciples of John the Baptist
and continued their occupation as fishermen.
Peter soon became known for being in the
right place but saying the wrong thing. Jesus
called two of His disciples, James and John,
the Sons of Thunder. Today we would probably
call them “loose cannons” especially after they
were ready to destroy an entire village (Luke
9:51-56) for not showing hospitality to our
Lord. Jesus said I’m “not come to destroy men’s
lives, but to save them.” Jesus loves us all. He
even loved Matthew, the tax collector, who
wasn’t the most popular person in town.
Coal miners were a fraternity. In unison
they all found a reason to get angry with
the boss and the coal company, going
on strike every year on the first week of
hunting season. If a fellow miner was injured
or ill they went to his rescue. It was not
uncommon for them to give money to pay
his bills, buy him food and care for his family.
As their pastor they treated our family with
baked goods or even the offer of a fresh kill
from their last hunt. At the time black lung
was well known but very little was done to
prevent it. Many who were in its early stages
accepted the hazard that would likely take
their life. Mines have come a long way since
their early days. Caved in mines, methane
fires and giant continuous mining machines,
similar to a large caterpillar, are still part of
the hazardous work. Why would anyone be
a coal miner? A high school graduate just
wants to work enough to buy his dream car
or marry his sweetheart. He signs for their
new mobile home, becomes responsible for
his and her car payments and soon she has to
quit her job because a baby is on the way. He’ll
be a coal miner for life.
Many people plan on getting right with
God someday. They are waiting to clean up
their life before becoming a Christian. Their
lives become more complicated. “Seek ye the
Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him
while He is near . . . He will have mercy upon
him . . .” Isaiah 55:6-7.
56 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 57

A Love Letter to FOCO
by Russ Abbott
South Forsyth High School’s My studio, Ink & Dagger Tattoo, has
graduating class of 1997 chose me as
the “Most Artistic” student because
there was little doubt from my peers
that I was going into a creative
field. I left my childhood home in the
Commonwealth neighborhood and started
attending Georgia State University, made
possible by the HOPE scholarship.
It was around that time that I received
my first tattoo while laying on dirty carpet
in a rental house off Pilgrim Mill Road. I was
eighteen. I could never afford a professional
tattoo on the money I made delivering pizzas
for Mellow Mushroom, but through the eyes
of youth, there was nothing wrong with an
amateur tattoo. All of my friends were getting
them too. Right here in Cumming. When I got
home, I found a giant swollen tick sucking at
my chest- the tattoo and the tick both came
from that dirty Forsyth County carpet.
Looking back on that first tattoo experience,
thinking about how far I’ve come, it’s absolutely
crazy to me. My life has been completely focused
on tattooing every day since. I ended up with a
tattoo apprenticeship, a coveted opportunity to
learn the wisdom of this ancient craft that has
exploded in professionalism during my time.
I’ve received numerous invitations to travel the
globe tattooing and teaching other passionate
artists about this timeless art form.
provided me a platform to engage with clientele
traveling in from as far away as Australia to
collect my work. In the nearly 15 years we
have been in business, I’ve mentored countless
tattooers to raise the bar across the industry.
I founded another company, Tattoo Smart,
to empower tattooers with the use of digital
design tools. Our use of emerging technology
is becoming aligned with my vision of the
tattoo studio of the future.
In a continued effort to give back what
tattooing has given me, I went to Israel
with Healing Ink and tattooed survivors of
terrorist acts. I learned the true healing power
of tattooing to give survivors much needed
control of what happens to their bodies.
My wife, three children, and I spent a few
years living in downtown Decatur, and when
we moved back, I was afraid that our lifestyle
and our businesses would meet with rejection.
We are now living in our fifth Forsyth County
home, our second in the Vickery neighborhood.
We have found so much acceptance in Vickery,
developing incredible friendships through the
neighborhood, village, and events. We feel at
home here and we are planting deep roots.
Several years ago, the Forsyth County
government voted to classify tattooing as “adult
entertainment.” Knowing firsthand that my
businesses were not welcomed by the County
58 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3
forced me to place my studio in Roswell and
commute past my neighborhood for nearly
thirty minutes to a different community. Many
of my employees over the years have been
Forsyth County residents, and hundreds of our
customers commute from Forsyth.
This is my love letter to you Forsyth
County. So many of you, tattooed or not, fill
our lives with joy. We are thrilled to call this
place our home. When something tells you it’s
time for a tattoo, or when your children want
to get tattooed, I hope to be there to help you
get it right.
Russ Abbott
Executive Creative Director,
Ink & Dagger Tattoo
755 Holcomb Bridge Road,
Roswell, Ga 30076
inkanddagger.com

VOLUME XI | ISSUE 3 | MYFORSYTHMAG.COM 59

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY
AUTOMOTIVE/CAR REPAIR
SERVICES
Christian Brothers Automotive – pg. 535
470-253-7376 | www.cbac.com/cumming
BREW PUB/TAPROOM
Cherry Street Brewing Taproom – 28
770-205-5512 | www.cherrystreetvickery.com
CYBER SECURITY/
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
Critical Path Security – pg. 62
770-224-6482 | www.criticalpathsscurity.com
CRISIS INTERVENTION
Corner Farms– pg. 47
770-355-2755 | www.cornerfarmsforsyth.com
DANCE ACADEMY/
INSTRUCTION
Cumming Dance Academy – pg. 9
770-781-4922 | www.CummingDanceAcademy.com
EMBROIDERY
Amigo Embroidery – pg.50
404-216-5740 | www.amigoembroidery.com
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Arseneau Advisory Group – pg. 5
470-839-9001 | www.arseneauadvisory.com
Financial Consultants Group, Inc. – Inside Back Cover
770-627-2121 | www.ForYourFuture.ne
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
KITCHEN/BATH
Georgia Kitchen and Bath – pg. 19
770-415-2119 | www.georgiakitchenbath.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
Adam Pendleton Photography – pg. 55
678-208-7077 | www.adampendleton.com
PHYSICIANS/MEDICAL
SERVICES
Cleaver Medical Group – pg. 57
770-800-3455 | www.cleavermedicalgroup.com
Georgia Highlands Medical Services – pg. 45
770-887-1668 | www.ghms-inc.org
Modern OBGYN – pg. 35
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. 37
770-284-8763 | www.southernskinandbeauty.com
PET SERVICES
Petworking & Co. Vickery Village – pg. 41
770-229-7220 | www.petworkingvickery.com
REAL ESTATE
Hello Pam Evans Real Estate – pg. 13
678-778-6551 | www.hellopamevans.com
The Dinsmore Team – pg. 51
770-712-7789 | www.dinsmoreteam.com
RESTAURANTS /FOOD
SERVICES/CATERING
Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant – pg. 24
770-475-9100 | www.casanuovarestaurant.com
Cork & Glass – pg. 24
678-694-8812 | www.corkandglass.com
CSB Home of Rick Tanner’s – pg. 28
770-205-5512 | www.cherrystreetvickery.com
Lenny’s Subs – pg. 27
678-947-0336 | Fax orders: 678-947-5343
Palapa’s Bar and Grill – pg. 25
770-889-1002 | www.palapasbargrill.com
Tam’s Backstage – pg. 32
678-455-8310 | www.tamsbackstage.com
Tam’s Tupelo– pg. 32
470-839-2024 | www.tamstupelo.com
TRANSPORTATION
JW Privado – pg. 43
404-405-6591 | www.jwprivado.com
TRANSPORTATION/
NON-EMERGENCY
ABW MedTrans Solutions – pg. 53
678-567-6644
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