02/12 Alpharetta

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2 My Alpharetta | february 2012

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“Will You Marry Me?”

FEBRUARY 2012

Wholebody SystemsPhotos courtesy of PhotoJack.net

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Publisher & Co-Owner Brian Meek

Executive Editor & Co-Owner Michelle Meek

editorialEditor Cherryl Greenman

Social Media Delaney Young art Graphic Designer Tiffany Atwood

Graphic Designer Candice Williams salesSenior Market Director Janet PonichteraMarket Director Kimberly Starr

Advertising Designer Ashley George contributorsPhotographers Jack Tuszynski

Writers Ronald Bradley, Michael Consoli, Adrianna Dukes, Brett Gluck, David Belle Isle, Dan Jape, Charles E. Martin, Jeremy McGouirk, LaCretia Munroe, Vishant Nath, Northside Hospital, Susan Traxler, Laurie Troublefield

Volume 1 | Issue 4

113 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 204 Canton, GA 30115

tel. (770) 720-7497 fax. (770) 720-1329

[email protected]@myalpharettamonthly.com

www.myalpharettamonthly.com

My Alpharetta Monthly magazine is your monthly community magazine and a publication of Footprints Publishing, LLC. The magazine’s mission is to bring relevant, positive stories and timely information to its readers and to provide local businesses with a premium outlet for community based advertising. Each month, more than 15,000 copies are distributed free by mail and through local businesses in the Alpharetta area. Please contact us or visit our website for a current list of locations where copies of the magazine can be found.

My Alpharetta Monthly welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year. Please contact us for payment options.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. My Alpharetta Monthly magazine is not responsible for errors and omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission from the Publisher.

© 2012 All rights reserved.

My Alpharetta Monthly is printed using soy-based inks and paper stocks that are at least 25 percent recycled. Our printer also recycles all paper and ink waste.

In EvERY IssUE4 MY ALPHARETTA6 COMMuNITY NEWS8 CELEBRATIONS10 CALENDAR12 SCHOOL INFO14 SCHOOL NEWS18 SPORTS NEWS45 GREATER NORTH FuLTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DIREctoRY LIstIngs40 RELIGIOuS SERVICES42 CLuBS & ORGANIzATIONS44 LOCAL OFFICIALS48 ADVERTISER INDEx

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Love & Learning A love story that began a century ago has created a legacy for generations to come.

My Community FavoritesCast your vote for your favorite businesses, services or restaurants online or use the ballot inside this issue!



Jennifer Riis-Poulsen, founder and CEO of PowerHouse Self-Defense for Ladies LLC, recently announced that PowerHouse has re-opened. Jennifer says that PowerHouse Self-Defense for Ladies’ mission is to reduce the number of girls and women that are sexually assaulted each year in the uSA by offering an intense program to all females from 4th grade and above, starting in the Metro-Atlanta area. Jennifer is a Certified Chief Instructor in Martial Arts and Self-Defense, and saw a need to help ladies feel empowered by teaching them self-defense techniques in order to protect themselves. Contact Jennifer at (678) 925-1553.

Allstate Insurance Company recently announced the opening of a new agency in Alpharetta. Owned and operated by John C. Foster (pictured); the full-service agency offers a complete line of products and services, including auto, property, commercial and life insurance. “As a long-time resident of the Atlanta area, I know many local families,” John says. “My knowledge and understanding of the people in this community will help me provide customers with an outstanding level of service. I am looking forward to helping families insure and protect the things that are important to them — their family, home, car, boat, and more.” The Foster Allstate agency is located at 8560 Holcomb Bridge Road. (770) 650-8535, or via email at [email protected]

The North Fulton Community Improvement District (CID) presented new Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle with a check for $789,000 during a recent city council meeting. The money will help the city acquire the necessary right-of-way to complete a new section of Westside Parkway, just north of Old Milton Parkway. By spring 2012, Westside Parkway will provide true north-south connectivity from Windward Parkway in Alpharetta to Holcomb Bridge Road in Roswell, thanks to this public-private partnership between the City of

Alpharetta and the North Fulton CID. “We want to help you get the other end of this road open,” said North Fulton CID Executive Director Brandon Beach, presenting the check to Mayor Belle Isle. The North Fulton CID was founded in 2003 to improve the southern end of Westside Parkway, according to North Fulton CID Chief Operating Officer Ann Hanlon. “Now, nine years later, the CID is able to provide crucial funding and make a profound impact on the north end of Westside Parkway. We see this project as a linchpin to creating a more complete system of roadways in North Fulton. It’s a huge win to get this road finished,” Hanlon said.Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle receives check from CID (Photo courtesy, Bob Pepalis, Patch.com)

The Windward Association of Retired Men (WARM) recently presented its annual Founders Award to Don Blaine for his “many years of dedicated service to our organization and community.” The award was presented jointly by last year’s Founders Award recipient Travis Mills and former recipient Bob O’Hagan. Award presenters highlighted Don’s instrumental role in establishing mutually beneficial

relations between the WARM group and the City of Alpharetta beginning in the late 1980s, his leadership in the creation of the Alpharetta Clean and Beautiful program, and his efforts to defeat a proposal that members of the Alpharetta city council be elected by districts rather than at large. “WARM is a remarkable group of men committed to helping the Windward community and Alpharetta. It has provided me with countless friendships over the years,” Don said. For further information on WARM, please contact Bing Seitz at (770) 880-9442.Travis Mills and Bob O’Hagan present Don Blaine WARM’s annual Founders Award.

You can support the North Fulton Community Charities through “Have a Heart for NFCC” during the month of February. There are several ways you can support/donate to NFCC in February including:•DONATE $20 or more to NFCC to celebrate someone you love at www.heartfornfcc.org. •Donate a percentage of your business proceeds on February 14 or 29 to NFCC.•Host a party in your home, invite your friends, and provide insight about the financial needs of NFCC. •Ask your church or synagogue to promote this campaign during the month of February.•Post an announcement in your February business, personal or community newsletter that February is Have a Heart for NFCC month and ask people to join you in donating or match your donation.•Announce the campaign on your social media outlets throughout the month.•Challenge a business competitor, bordering neighborhood, church or organization to see who can raise the most money for NFCC.

Editor’s Note: The article written by Vishant Nath, DMD, in our January issue of My Alpharetta Monthly featured a spelling error in the title — the correct spelling for the column is Mucoceles — not Musoceles. Mucocele is an infected salivary gland. You may read more about this on page 29 in the January issue.

by cherryl greenman, [email protected]

ALPHAREttA community — Home



coMMUnItY

Panera Bread supports Breast care at northside HospitalPanera Bread once again invited its customers to join them in the fight against breast cancer by purchasing its signature Pink Ribbon Bagels. More than 41,000 bagels were sold at Panera Bread bakery-cafes throughout North Georgia, with a portion of the proceeds going to Northside Hospital’s Breast Care Program. Panera recently presented a check of $4,102.80 to Northside. “Our Breast Care Program is so grateful and fortunate to have the ongoing support of local businesses like Panera Bread,” said Patti Owen, director of oncology services, Northside Hospital.”

Left to right: Northside Hospital breast health coordinator Susan Casella; Marianne Harris, owner, Hooked On Dough LLC dba Panera Bread; Nancy Pearson; joint venture partner, Panera Bread Company; Stephanie Figueroa, catering sales manager, Hooked On Dough LLC; Strom Mull, marketing, Breaking Bread Franchise dba Panera Bread; Mike Mcmullen, district manager, Panera Bread Company; and Lynn Jackson, administrator, Northside Hospital-Forsyth.

northside Receives Donation Alpharetta-based Select Sport America is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of hand-sewn synthetic leather balls, producing more than 2 million balls each year. The company strongly supports the fight for a cure for breast cancer and recently presented a check of $6,000 to Northside Hospital’s Breast Care Program. “Northside Hospital is the Southeast leader in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, with more than 1,200 cases annually,” said Patti Owen, MN, RN, director of oncology services, Northside Hospital. “We are grateful for this generous donation from Select Sport America and for their continued support of our patients.” The money was raised from sales of “The Cure,” a specially designed “pink ribbon” soccer ball and will be used to provide for further education, treatment and

research at Northside. This is the third year that Select Sport has supported Northside, with donations totaling $13,000.

Left to right: Lynn Abrams, Northside Hospital Network of Hope (NOH) volunteer and breast cancer survivor; Susan Casella, breast health coordinator, Northside Hospital; Lynn Jackson, administrator, Northside Hospital-Forsyth; Debbie Rose, finance manager, Select Sport America; Judi Haverland (and granddaughter), NOH volunteer and survivor.

nFH DAIsY Award Winning nurseLeaders from North Fulton Hospital (NFH), Kimberly Clark Health Care and the DAISY Foundation presented Sarah Bentley, RN with the DAISY Award for Nursing. Sarah was selected for this honor following nominations submitted by her patients and peers. As nurse on the Medical Telemetry unit, Sarah Bentley is a valued member of the nursing staff at North Fulton. Her passion, dedication, and expertise are evident to all who come into contact with her.

Sarah Bentley honored with DAISY Award.


Georgia’s trusted leader in radiologyIn radiology, it’s one thing to see; it’s another to understand. Northside’s expert team of board-certified

radiologists and sub-specialists are trained extensively to interpret general to specialized imaging—from pediatric

MRI to digital mammography and interventional radiology of the spine. We combine exceptional care and the

latest technologies, bringing our expertise to convenient locations throughout your community.

Visit us online at www.northside.com.


Babies, Birthdays and Anniversaries

WAnt to sEE YoUR PHoto In oUR cELEBRAtIon sEctIon?Birthday, Anniversary & Wedding Announcements are Free!

My Alpharetta Monthly

113 Mountain Brook Dr., suite 204, canton, gA 30115or [email protected]

Deadline is February 10th for the March Issue!

Abigail claire carterAge 3 on January 26Happy Birthday Abby!

Love, Mommy & Daddy

Wyatt LipscombAge 10 on February 19

Happy Birthday!We love you so much!Mom, Wesley, Goldie

& 2GF

Marsalis & casadarius Anderson-clausellAge 13 on February 9

Happy Birthday to my new teenagers. Love you dearly!

Mama, your little Sister & GrandMama

carolineAge 9 on February 2nd

Happy BirthdayLove Dad, Mom, Virginia

& Charlie

Jessica Forte Age 7 on February 16We love you very much & are very proud of you!Mommy, Daddy & Jenna

Benjamyn A. MorelandAge 2 on February 22

Happy Birthday Bam Bam!Love, Mama & Dada

nathen MilkoAge 2 on February 16Happy Birthday Buddy, We love you very much!Love, Mama, Dada-B,

Jorgia & Chloe

John A. gibson Jr.Age 6 on February 16

We love you John John!Love, Mommy, Daddy,

Grandma, Kody & Bam Bam

gregory croninAge 13 on January 21

Happy Birthday Gregory. We love you so much!

Dad, Mom & brother Connor

Helen Marie goodwinAge 10 on February 14

Happy Birthday & Happy Valentine’s Day! We Love you so much,Mommy, Daddy & Abby

Zoe Rose MoylanAge 1 on February 15Happy Birthday to our

precious baby girl! Love, Mommy, Daddy

& Cooper



Things to do in Alpharetta

On-Going • ALPHARETTA GOLDEN AGE CLUBJoin the Alpharetta Golden Age Club for

just $12 per person annually (January 1 —

December 31). Membership meetings are

held on the 1st Tuesday of each month at

10 a.m. and then lunch out afterwards.

Covered dish luncheons are held on the 3rd

Tuesday of each month at 11 a.m.

(678) 297-6140

BLOOD DRivEsAmerican Red Cross will host blood drives

throughout February at the Alpharetta Blood

Donation Center, 3000 Old Alabama Rd, Suite

110. The center is open Monday and Tuesday:

11 a.m. — 7 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday:

12 — 7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday: 8 a.m.

— 3 p.m. www.redcrossblood.org

PETs fOR ADOPTiONCrabapple Knoll Veterinary Clinic, 12604

Crabapple Road, Milton, offers pets for

adoption, visit www.crabappleknollpetsfor

adoption.shutterfly.com for more information.

RHYTHM N’ sHOEs BiRTHDAY PARTiEsAlpharetta Recreation will host your son/

daughter’s next birthday party. Movin n’

Groovin for boys and girls, ages 3 — 6 year.

Ballet or princess, for ages 3 — 6 years.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, ages 5 —

7 years. Parties held on Saturdays from

12:30 — 2 p.m. or 2:30 — 4 p.m. Also

Gymnastic birthday parties, ages 3 and older.

Call (678) 297-6100 ext. 1158 for details.

ROOMMATEs/sHARED HOUsiNGPrivate bedrooms/baths beautiful homes in

safe neighborhoods. Flexible lease terms.

Below market rent. Free service. (678) 812-

3729, [email protected],

www.housematematch.org

February 4 • HOB NOB WiTH THE WiNE sNOBJoin Barnsley’s “Wine Snob” for a casual and

entertaining wine tasting, featuring six of his

favorite wines. www.barnsleyresort.com

February 9 • LOvE BiRDs fOR vALENTiNEsChildren and their parent/adult guest will create

beautiful love birds using cut-outs and lots of

imagination! For ages 3 — 6 with adult. Free,

pre-registration is required.

(678) 297-6165, [email protected]

February 10 • fATHER/DAUGHTER vALENTiNE’s DAY DANCEDads and daughters are invited to join ACC

programs for dessert and dancing to celebrate

Valentine’s Day! You must pre-register for this

event. $20 per person Alpharetta resident;

$30 per person non-resident. (678) 297-6100,

[email protected]

February 10 & 11 • vALENTiNE’s DAY WEEKENDEnjoy a romantic special Barnsley menu at

vERizON WiRELEss AMPHiTHEATRE AT ENCORE PARKThe Alpharetta Convention and Visitors

Bureau is giving away two prime seats for

the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore

Park, full 2012 season, including parking

and VIP Club access. To enter, visit

www.awesomealpharetta.com and sign up

for the Alpharetta CVB newsletter. One winner

will be drawn from the contestants who sign

up between January 1 and March 31, 2012.

One entry per person, the winner will be

announced April 1.

February 3 • DANCE AUDiTiONsDance students in grades 6 — 12 are invited

to attend an open-call dance audition at

Atlanta Ballet School, 1695 Marietta Blvd.

NW, Atlanta, Georgia. Auditions will include

ballet, pointe and modern technique. Required

audition dress for girls is black leotards and

pink tights. Boys should wear white t-shirts

and black tights. Registration starts at 5 p.m.

and auditions will be held from 5:30 — 7 p.m.

www.interlochen.org/dance2012

February

February 10 & 11 • vALENTiNE’s DAY WEEKEND

Enjoy a romantic special Barnsley menu

at the Rice House; carriage rides between

the Rice House and the Historic Ruins. www.barnsleyresort.com


the Rice House; carriage rides between the

Rice House and the Historic Ruins.

www.barnsleyresort.com

February 11 • ART fROM THE HEARTA gala charity champagne reception and

formal dinner with dancing will be held at the

Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Drive,

benefitting Senior Services North Fulton from

6:30 — 11 p.m. (770) 993-1906,

www.ssnorthfulton.org

February 11 • 11TH ANNUAL CHATTAHOOCHEE CHALLENGE 10KThis is a fast pace run along the Chattahoochee

River and an official qualifier for the Peachtree

Road Race. Race begins at 8 a.m. and 1 mile

fun run begins at 7:30 a.m. Register online at

www.active.com or download a registration form

at www.chattnaturecenter.org

February 17 — 20 •BACKYARD BiRD COUNTYou can participate in the Nationwide Citizen

Science program that counts birds in North

America. For all ages from 7 — 9 p.m. at the

Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell.

www.chattnaturecenter.org

February 17 — 24 • NORTH fULTON HiGH sCHOOL ART sHOWThe Roswell Fine Arts Alliance and the Roswell

Visual Arts Center will sponsor an exhibition

and competition for North Fulton high school

ContestCorner

If you find the hidden picture, be the first to email: [email protected]

Find the hidden picture

*Only emailed answers will be accepted. Contest participants are able to win

one time per calendar year

Kim Lynch was our winner for January’s contest corner. She will receive a gift card to Schakolad Chocolate Factory. Congratulations!

students. Show will feature drawings, sculpture

and paintings and held at the Roswell Visual

Arts Center, Roswell Area Park, 10495

Woodstock Road. A closing awards reception

will be held on February 24 from 6 — 8 p.m.

(770) 720-1074

February 18 •DRUMMiNG UP sTORiEsJoin Dave Holland as he sings, drums, and

narrates his way through an array of world

folktales. Held at the CNC at 11 a.m. and noon,

preregistration required by February 10.

www.chattnaturecenter.org

February 18 • PREPARE fOR sPRiNGJoin CNC horticulturalist Lisa Cole in a hands-

on presentation of late winter projects for your

garden to get ready for spring. Ages 16 — adult

from 1 — 2:30 p.m. www.chattnaturecenter.org

February 23 •CNC DiNE/DisCOvERJoin CNC’s All About Nature Social Club for

its monthly dine and discover potluck. Giff

Beaton will present a program on dragonflies.

Ages 16 — adult. www.chattnaturecenter.org

February 26ROsWELL WEDDiNG sHOWCAsEHeld at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 1075

Holcomb Bridge Road from 2 — 5 p.m. Free

admission, fashion show by Wedding Angels

Bridal Boutique and more. (770) 640-3253

February 28 • ROsWELL GARDEN CLUBHenning Van Schmeling from the

Chattahoochee Nature Center will be the guest

speaker presenting information about Georgia’s

Living Wetlands. This event is free and guests

are welcome and held at the Community Activity

Bldg., at Roswell Area Park, 10495 Woodstock

Road. www.roswellgardenclub.com

March 2 • fREE MOviE UNDER THE sTARszoe Yurchuck, a senior at Woodstock High

School, will present “Save a Life Movie Night”

at Woodstock High School. Donations will

be accepted which will benefit the Johnny

Foundation, a local charity for suicide

awareness and prevention. Concessions will be

available and attendees are encouraged to bring

blankets and chairs. [email protected]

March 8 — 10 • CHiLDREN’s/TEEN’s CONsiGNMENT sALEDue West united Methodist Church, 3956

Due West Road, Marietta, will host this

consignment sale, Thursday, 9:30 a.m. —

7 p.m.; Friday, 9:30 a.m. — 6 p.m.; and

Saturday, 8 a.m. — noon. Many items are

1/2 price on Saturday ONLY. High-quality items

will be offered at greatly reduced prices. Find

gently used children’s, junior’s and teen’s

clothing, accessories and shoes. Also formal

wear, school uniforms, baby items / furniture,

electronics, books, CDs, DVDs, TOYS and more!

(678) 318-1908


Public Schools

2011 — 2012 Calendar at a Glance

Elementary Schools

Esther Jackson Elementary1400 Martin RoadRoswell, GA 30076(770) 594-5290Principal: Constance Coles

Fulton Sunshine Academy Elementary(Charter School)1335 Northmeadow ParkwayRoswell, GA 30076(770) 410-1500Principal: Murat Cetin

Hembree Springs Elementary815 Hembree RoadRoswell, GA 30076(770) 667-2902Principal: Kalpana Raju

Hillside Elementary9250 Scott RoadRoswell, GA 30076(770) 552-6362Principal: John Anderson (Interim)

Mimosa Elementary1550 Warsaw RoadRoswell, GA 30076(770) 552-4540Principal: Lynn Johnson

Fulton County School District: www.fultonschools.org | (404) 768-3600

Cafeteria account information: www.mealpayplus.com

Parent Connect: www.fultonschools.org/parent_connect.htm

Private Schools

Mountain Park Elementary11895 Mountain Park RoadRoswell, GA 30075(770) 552-4530Principal: Stacy Perlman

River Eves Elementary9000 Eves RoadRoswell, GA 30076(770) 552-4550Principal: Neil Pinnock

Roswell North Elementary10525 Woodstock RoadRoswell, GA 30075(770) 552-6320Principal: Kindra Smith

Sweet Apple Elementary12025 Etris RoadRoswell, GA 30075(770) 643-3310Principal: Natalie Richman

Middle Schools

Crabapple Middle10700 Crabapple RoadRoswell, GA 30075(770) 552-4520Principal: Nathan Buhl

Elkins Pointe Middle11290 Elkins RoadRoswell, GA 30075(770) 667-2892Principal: Melinda Springman

Northwestern Middle12805 Birmingham HighwayMilton, GA 30004(770) 667-2870Principal: Jasmine Kullar

High Schools

Milton High13025 Birmingham HighwayAlpharetta, GA 30004 (770) 740-7000Principal: Cliff Jones

Roswell High11595 King RoadRoswell, GA 30075 (770) 552-4500Principal: Jerome Huff

Other Centers

Crossroads/Second Chance North 791 Mimosa BoulevardRoswell, GA 30075 (770) 552-6334Principal: Dennis Kostulakos (interim)

Local Colleges & Universities

Georgia Perimeter College(404) 413-7878

www.gpc.edu

The Art Institute of Atlanta(770) 394-8300artinstitutes.edu

Strayer University(770) 650-3000

strayeru.com

University of Phoenix - Atlanta Campus(678) 731-0555www.phoenix.edu

Blessed Trinity Catholic High School(678) 277-9083www.bttitans.org

Cottage School(770) 641-8688www.cottageschool.org

Chrysalis Experiential Academy(770) 649-7077www.chrysalisexp.org

Fellowship Christian Academy(770) 992-4975www.fellowshipschools.org

Fellowship Christian High School(770) 993-1650www.fellowshipschools.org

High Meadows School(770) 993-2940www.highmeadows.org

scHooL

Mill Springs Academy(770) 360-1336www.millsprings.org

Porter School(770) 594-1313www.porterschool.com

Queen of Angels Catholic School, K-8 (770) 518-1804, ext. 104www.qaschool.org

Village Montessori School(770) 552-0834 www.vmschool.com

February 17 & 20 Holiday-Schools Closed

March 9 Teacher Workday-Student Holiday

April 2 — 6 Spring Break

May 18 Last Day of School



11Alive’s chief Meterologist visits Alpharetta ElementaryMike Francis, 11Alive Chief Meteorologist, visited the first graders at Alpharetta Elementary School. Mr. Francis explained different types of precipitation, and described tornadoes to the students. The students enjoyed Mr. Francis visit especially since he is a dad to children at Alpharetta Elementary.

11Alive Chief Meteorologist visits 1st graders at Alpharetta Elementary.

Jc chief visits Dolvin EsIn conjunction with the annual Johns Creek Founders’ Day, Police Chief Ed Densmore visited Dolvin Elementary School in November and read to Mrs. Seigert’s and Ms. Hemmann’s kindergarten classes. The children were enthralled by Chief Densmore rendition of “The Gingerbread Girl Goes Animal Crackers” by Lisa Campbell Ernst.

Police Chief Ed Densmore reads to kindergarten classes at Dolvin.

Webb Bridge Wins Fcss Academic BowlIn the final rounds of the Fulton County Schools’ Middle School Academic Bowl tournament in December, Webb Bridge Middle School claimed the championship title for 2011. Initial rounds of the tournament were held among all Fulton County Schools on two days in November, so the top four teams vied for final places. River Trail placed second, with Northwestern and Autrey Mill claiming third and fourth places. The teams advanced to compete in the Professional Association of Georgia Educators in January, 2012. Congratulations to each team.

Art calendar contest WinnersOcee Elementary School is proud to share the accomplishments of 3rd grade student Lexi Kapper and 2nd grade student Anika Patel. Both students submitted winning art entries to the Art Calendar Contest sponsored by the Fulton County Department of Public Works - Water Services division. The contest was designed to highlight the importance of water and water conservation for all of us.

Left to right: Gwen Brinkley, Fulton County Department of Public Works, 2nd grade teacher Maria Alvarez, Anika Patel, Lexi Kapper, Jennifer McLaurin, Fulton County Department of

Public Works, 3rd grade teacher Katie Bonner and principal, Debbie Pernice. (Photo by Vicky Jaksic)

students Jingle into schoolCrabapple Crossing Elementary School (CCES) students brought in the month of December with a “jingle” themed Walk to School Day! Students donned their red and green and

scHooL

more on page

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Webb Bridge MS Academic Bowl team celebrate win with coaches and principal.



continued from page 14 scHooLjourneyed into school braving the low 30 degree temperatures. The student’s hearts were quickly warmed when they were greeted at the doors by teachers and staff handing out candy canes and homework passes! George Freiberger, CCES principal, looks forward to the monthly Walk to School events. He says, “It’s a great sight to see families walking to school together!” Way to go CCES students!

Birmingham storybook ForestBirmingham Falls Elementary School students, teachers and parents got in the holiday spirit, in December, by working together to create a beautiful Storybook Forest in the school foyer. Handmade ornaments were creatively made by students to decorate and fill the holiday trees in the themes of classic holiday stories! Second grade teacher, Ms. Hoover, read “The Polar Express” to her class, who then helped decorate the trees in the foyer.

DAR Essay contest WinnersThe Martha Stewart Bulloch (Roswell) Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) sponsors an essay contest every year. Findley Oaks is proud to have this year’s top three authors. Jacob Kenfield’s essay took top honors and was recognized and presented a medal at the January meeting of the chapter. His

essay was titled Young America Takes a Stand: The War of 1812; My Friend Francis. Lauren Schmidlkofer’s and Davis Rokose’s essays were also recognized. The students were featured on Falcon Talk, Findley Oaks’ morning news program.

King’s Ridge skypes shuttle EngineerTo enhance their learning experience, the fourth-grade students at KRCS Skyped for an hour with NASA Space Shuttle engineer, Ann Mikolos. Ann, a current resident of Florida, was assigned to the Columbia Space Shuttle mission as a senior project engineer. Through their conversation with Ms. Mikolos, they learned more about the exploration of space. “The learning experience was wonderful for our fourth-grade students,” states Robin Daugherty, an educator and technical specialist for King’s Ridge.

Milton High school Math club WinnerCongratulations to Milton Math Club member, Agni Kumar, on her outstanding performance on the first round of the 2011 Kennesaw State university Mathematics Competition. Agni was the highest scoring student on the test from Milton.

Left to right: Milton Math Club Advisor Mr. Yang, Agni Kumar, Principal Jones. (Photo Milton News)

Sisters, Ava, Audra, and Austyn Deakins, are proud of the homework passes they’ve received.

Jacqueline Davis and Abby Hepburn braved the cold temperatures to participate in the Jingle All the Way walk.

Ms. Hoover’s second grade class.

Left to right: Lauren Schmidlkofer, Jacob Kenfield, Findley Oaks Principal Steve Curry, and Davis Rokose.

KRCS Skype NASA Space Shuttle engineer.



creek view 1K cheetah challengeCreek View Elementary’s first 1K Cheetah Challenge race, pancake breakfast and holiday bazaar was held on December 3 at Creek View. 366 students participating along with many teachers and faculty members, the Creek View PTA was thrilled to have such a good turnout for this wonderful, fun event.

sPoRts

Milton All Region Football team 6-AAAAACongratulations to the following members of the Milton football team who were selected to the 1st and 2nd All Region 6-AAAAA Football Teams as decided by the Region football coaches. First Team -— Region 6-AAAAA: RB — Treyvon Paulk, OL -— Josh Harris, DL -— Carl Lawson, and LB -— Justin Antolik. Second Team -— Region 6-AAAAA: WR -— Ryan Jenkins, OL -— Corey Helms, ATH -— Kyle LeStrange, DL -— Brandon Nix, and DL -— Josh Manley.

Front row (left to right): Carl Lawson, Justin Antolik, Treyvon Paulk, and Corey Helms. Back row: Coach Bennett, Principal Jones, Josh Manley, Ryan Jenkins, Brandon Nix, Kyle LeStrange, Josh Harris, Coach Decristofaro. (Photo Milton News)

5th grade students and teachers running the race.

5th grade student McKenna Brooks (#401) and 5th grade teacher Crissy Wade (behind McKenna) cross the finish line.

2nd grade students and teachers running.

Left to right: Kim Foresman, Data Clerk, Fran Gerlich, Front Office, Heidi Osthoff, Clinic, and Erika Murphy, Front Office.

Race coordinator and parent Barbara Oswald (with bullhorn) with son Jason (in security vest) overseeing race activities.

sEnD YoUR coMMUnItY, scHooL & sPoRts nEWs to

to BE FEAtURED In An UPcoMIng [email protected]


“Push…Push harder! You can do it!”

In a medical setting this sounds more like childbirth than a therapy to increase bone density and muscle mass. However, this is what a coaching session sounds like to clients using the bioDensity machine, a new technology available through Wholebody Systems that is changing the way people treat osteoporosis and build muscle tissue. For the first time, people are able to maximize the results of a proven science to build new tissue without drugs.

The concept is very simple; when the body experiences a weight bearing load, the brain reacts by sending signals to that part of the body to add mass. It is as if the brain is saying, “Whoa, what was that sensation?!? We better build up that part of our body in case that ever happens again…”

BioDensity allows the body to be placed in the optimal biomechanical position to perform these movements and thereby maximize results. There are four simple positions that strengthen the large muscle groups that support the core of the body: Chest press, Leg Press, Core Pull, and Vertical Lift. The progress of the sessions is measured and tracked by an easy-to-read graph report that is then given to the patient after each visit.

Recent evidence indicates that most drugs used to treat osteoporosis produce a more mineralized bone tissue. The problem with this approach is that while it makes the outer layer stronger, the center core of the bone remains porous and weak. Research has found that some people using these drugs will still suffer from brittle bones that are easily fractured. Osteoblastic activity (from bioDensity) builds the bone naturally from the inside out making a stronger, denser bone the way nature intended.

Although this therapy has proven to drastically reverse the effects of degenerative bone conditions, it serves many more purposes than that. Any full grown adult can benefit from using this

in Bone HealtH and Muscle MassFinally, a way to treat osteoporosis and other degenerative

conditions without the use of harmful drugs!

A Revolution

vertical lift

12540 Broadwell Road, ste 2102, Milton(404) 987-7908

[email protected]


covER

Photos courtesy of PhotoJack.net

machine by strengthening their entire musculoskeletal system. Building muscle and bone tissue this way can positively affect your vascular system, central nervous system, and therefore your overall health.

So why doesn’t regular exercise alone produce the same effect? This cutting edge technology allows a person, regardless of age and physical condition, to safely perform a five second exertion of maximum self-imposed loading (no external weights to contend with). This is all done under the watchful eye of a trained technician making this program the safest, most time efficient and effective program available.

The biggest side effect of this treatment is increased strength. Increased strength, of course, comes from stronger core muscles. Stronger core muscles lead to improved posture, which leads to better balance, circulation and organ function. Stronger bones and core muscles, improved posture, increased balance, better circulation and organ function means a better quality of life.

Dr. Alan James of Physicians First Medical in Memphis, TN, is one of the first doctors in the country to start using this technology. He says that “People are seeing amazing results after just three

or four sessions”. One example he cited was his 78 year old mother. She had two goals when starting this program:

1. To be able to carry a case of bottled water from her car

2. To increase her time of future independent living.

She has already achieved the first goal which has her believing she is well on her way to achieving the second. While this may not sound like a big deal to some, to our ever growing population of seniors, independent living is becoming more and more important.

Another example comes from bioDensity distributor and advocate Bill Cunnigham. Bill’s wife was diagnosed with osteopenia, a classification of bone density loss not as dramatic as osteoporosis. Both Bill and his wife have been using the machine for several months and he just reported that after her last doctor’s visit, she is no longer classified as having osteopenia. Several

months of bioDensity treatment have increased her bone density so much that it was measurable by her physician.

In summary, you can stop and reverse the effects of osteoporosis while building natural muscle and bone tissue. It takes as little as five minutes per week, and you don’t have to change clothes, sweat or muss up your hair and makeup. The side effects are that you will get stronger, improve your posture, balance, circulation, and organ function, giving you a better quality of life and greater independence.

and…this technology is so new that it has just hit the market and Wholebody systems has one of the first machines in the state of Georgia. call today to make your appointment! (404) 987-7908

Chest Press Core Pull

leg Press



by Representative Charles E. “Chuck” Martin

State of the State

In the January 10th ‘State of the State’ address, Governor Deal highlighted the successes of the 2011 Legislative Session and outlined several measures for the upcoming 2012 Legislative Session for a steadfast and efficient course.

Governor Deal commended the General Assembly for their assistance in the restoration of the Rainy Day Fund to $328 million, an increase of 183 percent from January 2011. He emphasized the success of balancing the budget without new taxes and saving Georgia taxpayers $11 million over the life of bonds sold in 2011. The Governor also explained the 2012 plan to implement zero-based budget in 10 percent of all programs ensuring accountability and efficiency for Georgia tax dollars.

For the 2012 Legislative Session, Governor Deal prioritized education, transportation, criminal justice, jobs and economy, and government efficiency in detailing the following:

Education

• Allocating $20 million for the need-based, one percent student loan program.

• Appropriating $146.6 million for enrollment efforts in K-12 schools and $111.3 million to support expected enrollment growth in technical colleges and university systems.

• Designating $55.8 million to fund salary increases for K-12 teachers in addition to increasing the Pre-K school year by 10 days, assisting in reestablishing quality salaries. In highlighting his support for charter schools, the Governor expressed his intent to recommend supplemental grants in the amended budget, as well as the 2013 budget to ensure charter schools have sufficient operating funds.

Transportation and Infrastructure

• Working with the DOT to implement ‘flex lanes’ on Georgia 400

• Calling for $46.7 million for deepening the Port of Savannah. This brings our total contribution near the state’s 40 percent

share after positive responses from U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

• Making another installment toward the $300 million for water reservoir construction in an effort to prepare for future growth.

Criminal Justice

• Including $10 million for accountability courts in order to lower rates of recidivism. This will reduce crime while also reducing the taxpayer burden.

Jobs and Economy

• Commencing the Go Build Georgia program, which will train Georgia’s workforce for skilled labor jobs. These jobs pay roughly 27 percent more than the average Georgia salary.

• Proposing targeted tax reductions to make Georgia the #1 place in the nation to do business. This includes eliminating the sales tax on energy used in manufacturing.

• Again focusing on a balanced budget that funds Georgia priorities without raising taxes.

Government Efficiency

• Reducing the size of government by eliminating the State Personnel Administration, downsizing the Georgia Aviation Authority and selling state planes.

I am excited about many of the items highlights in the State of the State, and, as you would expect have questions about others.

I am pleased to see the Governor’s focus on education and look forward to the continued focus on our students and enhancing their environment, removing impediments to learning.

On the transportation front, I remain very skeptical of the TSPOST plan, due to a project list that is only somewhat focused on congestion relief, but I welcome the investment in GA-400. Now we just have to make sure these “flex lanes” don’t take on the first name “HOT” as in “High Occupancy Toll.”

Additionally, I am glad this Governor has embraced the need to eliminate sales tax on energy used in manufacturing. Sales tax is meant to apply to the end product and not business inputs. Along with former Representative Jeff Lewis, I introduced this concept previously and look forward to its passage this year. In fact, sales tax should be removed from all business inputs allowing Georgians to become a leader in job creation.

Representative Chuck MartinDistrict 47417 State Capitol BuildingAtlanta, GA 30334Phone: (404) 656-5064Fax: (404) 463-2249Email: [email protected] Website: www.martinforgeorgia.com Twitter: Martin4GA

Under the

DoMESession Starts:

State of the State and Quick Takes…

Welcome to the “2012 My community Favorites” contest!

so far, your response has been awesome! so keep the ballots

coming and support the local businesses by voting for them as

your favorite. We want you to enjoy this contest so please vote

for your community’s favorite restaurants, service type businesses,

small business retail shops, recreation services and residential

places. Remember, the voting will close February 29, 2012 at

5 p.m. You will find our voting ballot on the next few pages as well

as important rules of the contest and policies to follow. You may

also vote online by visiting www.myalpharettamonthly.com.

Thank you for your participation and please let the businesses

know you voted for them! Please like us on Facebook and tell

all your friends to vote!


ALPHAREttAoFFIcIAL BALLot

All Around ___________________________

Asian _______________________________

Bakery ______________________________

Barbecue ____________________________

Breakfast ____________________________

Coffee _______________________________

Dessert _____________________________

Fast Food ____________________________

Fine Dining __________________________

Italian/Pizzeria _______________________

Kid-friendly ___________________________

Mexican _____________________________

Seafood _____________________________

Sports Bar ___________________________

Attorney _____________________________

Auto Repair __________________________

Car Wash ____________________________

REstAURAnts

sERvIcEs

*Please read Contest Rules on page 26 before beginning the voting process.

Carpet/Upholstery Cleaner

_____________________________________

Caterer ______________________________

Chiropractor _________________________

Cleaning Service/Maid ________________

CPA/Bookkeeping/Tax Service

_____________________________________

Day Care/Preschool __________________

Day Spa/Massage ____________________

Dentist ______________________________

Pediatric Dentist _____________________

Electrician ___________________________

Eye Doctor ___________________________

Financial Institution/Bank/Credit Union

_____________________________________

Hair Salon ___________________________

Handyman/Repair/Remodel

_____________________________________

Heating and Air _______________________

Insurance Agent (Agent Name)

_____________________________________

Landscape Design/Installation

_____________________________________

Lawn Care/Maintenance

_____________________________________


votE for your favorites!

Medical Family Practice/

Internal Medicine _____________________

Nail Salon ___________________________

OB/GYN _____________________________

Orthodontist _________________________

Painter/Painting Service

_____________________________________

Pediatrician __________________________

Pest Control _________________________

Pet Care/Boarding ___________________

Pet Groomer _________________________

Pet Trainer ___________________________

Photographer ________________________

Physical Therapy _____________________

Plastic Surgeon ______________________

Plumber _____________________________

Pool/Spa Sales/Service

_____________________________________

Private School _______________________

Realtor ______________________________

Roofer _______________________________

Travel Agent _________________________

Tutoring _____________________________

Veterinarian __________________________

Boutique ____________________________

Children’s Clothing ____________________

Cigar Store __________________________

Drug Store/Pharmacy _________________

Audio/Home Theatre __________________

Florist _______________________________

Frame Shop __________________________

Furniture/Home Décor

_____________________________________

Garden Center/Nursery

_____________________________________

Gift Shop ____________________________

Grocery Store ________________________

Hardware/Home Improvement

_____________________________________

Jeweler ______________________________Ballot continued on next page

sMALL BUsInEss REtAILERs


LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

My Alpharetta Monthly

sMALL BUsInEss REtAILERs cont’d

Liquor Store __________________________

Music Store __________________________

Pet Supply Store _____________________

Specialty Foods ______________________

Tire Shop ____________________________

Dance Studio ________________________

Fitness/Health Club

_____________________________________

Golf Course __________________________

Gymnastics Center

_____________________________________

Martial Arts __________________________

Birthday Party Venue

_____________________________________

Apartment Community

_____________________________________

Subdivision __________________________

REcREAtIon & EntERtAInMEnt

ONLY SIGNED BALLOTS WILL BE COUNTEDName (required): __________________________________

Address: ________________________________________

City:__________________State:______zip:_____________

Phone (required): __________________________________

Signature (required): _______________________________

REsIDEntIAL DEvELoPMEnt

contEst RULEsonly one ballot per person please.

A minimum of 20 selections must be completed in order for ballot to count.

NO PHOTOCOPIES of this form may be used.

The selections must be made by the person completing this form.

selections must be located in Fulton County.

only ballots with name, phone number and signature will be accepted. Please fill out the box at the end of the ballot.

Return ballot by

Wednesday, February 29

at 5 p.m.

Mail or drop off:

My Alpharetta Monthly113 Mountain Brook Drive

Suite 204Canton, GA 30115

Or submit your votes online:

www.myalpharettamonthly.com



The success of our City is determined solely by the success of those in our City — families, businesses and organizations.

And, because you are in this City, we are a family-focused residential community. We are a 150-year old southern town. We are also the economic engine of North Fulton, hosting more technology jobs than any other city in Georgia.

This means, of course, that the success of Alpharetta is much more about you than about us. We cannot legislate your success. The best we can do is create an environment that makes it easier for you to succeed. Sometimes that calls for action. Sometimes it calls for getting out of the way. Wisdom comes in knowing the difference.

To that end, we have a great many things to do in 2012. And, we will hold each of these up to that test of whether it will make it more or less likely for you to succeed. We will break ground on a new Downtown, the most historically significant change to our City in over 25 years. We will finally open up Westside Parkway (likely in March). We will establish Georgia’s first Technology Advisory Commission to help retain our technology businesses, attract new businesses, and brand our City as the premier technology hub of the Southeast. Additionally, we will be exploring the feasibility of a host of other items that will help us better enable you, your family, your business, your organization to succeed. Thank you for being here. Thank you for being Alpharetta.

Best wishes for a great New Year!

At our house, the decorations are down, and our kids’ sugar high is gone. I have now removed the antlers and red nose from my jeep, which were carefully installed under cover of darkness by my loving wife. You can see clearer in the first weeks of the new year; weeks free of expectations and schedules; weeks that leave you free to ponder what counts for success in your life, your family, your organization.

This January 3, we hit the ground running, and I look forward to serving you as Alpharetta’s next Mayor. But before that ground gets hit, I have been pondering how we, as a city, should define success? Should we define it by the quality of services delivered? By the crimes deterred? By the tax dollars saved? By the quality of life created? Perhaps.

But when you whittle away all the stuff that surrounds the business of running a city, what is our overriding mission? The one thing? That principle against which competing possibilities and ideas are held up in deciding whether to pursue them or dismiss them? After much thought, I have made the following not-necessarily-groundbreaking conclusion:

by Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle

David Belle Isle is the mayor of Alpharetta. You may contact him by calling (678) 297-6020 or email [email protected].

cItY HALLGreat Things in 2012

“

”

The success of our City is determined solely by the success of those in our City — families, businesses and organizations.


When nylon stockings first became available after World War II, people would line up to purchase one pair. That is where I met my future wife. She was in line talking to my sister.

When it came time to purchase the stockings, the store was out of her size. My sister than asked her to buy her a pair. She said yes. As a thank you we drove her home. I asked for her telephone number. The rest is history!

P.S. She is still exciting!

Frank & Louise Munkel

My husband grew up sailing the Great Lakes on a 36 foot sailboat, Spartini. In 2002 we took a week long “last sail” with his parents and best friend as they were selling Spartini at the end of the summer. Early one morning, heading towards our final destination we decided to put up the sails for “one last time”. I was asked to pull the lines and was told to look at my sails. I looked up. I froze. Written on the sail was, “Alice, will you marry me?” My boyfriend dropped to one knee and proposed.

Ryan & Alice Fellabaum


Proposals from the My Alpharetta Monthly team . . .We had been dating for two months. I was returning from a Girls Weekend trip and stopped at Brian’s apartment on my way home. He was in the midst of folding laundry so I sat down on the end of his bed. Acting very nervous, Brian said that he wanted to talk to me about something. I immediately went into panic mode…we had only been together a short time — I could only imagine what he wanted to tell me. He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

Wow, definitely not what I expected but almost 19 years later we both know it was meant to be!

Michelle & Brian Meek

Married June 19, 1993

My boyfriend of four years asked me to go on vacation with him and his family to Gatlinburg, Tennessee for Labor Day weekend. One night as I was getting ready to go to Dixie Stampede; my boyfriend came into the bathroom, got down on one knee and proposed. Little did I know, he was actually planning to propose at Dixie Stampede, but I’m so glad he decided to do it before. I don’t know if I could have handled all the attention on me!

Candice & Austin WilliamsMarried OctOber 1, 2005

One day Stephen asked, “If I bought an engagement ring, do you know someone who would wear it?” I said, “Yes, if it was ‘paid in full.’” On October 16, our one year anniversary, Stephen and I were working on his Accounting homework in his bedroom at his mother’s house when he suddenly asked “Will you marry me?”

As I was about to answer, his mother walked right in and spoiled the moment. I said “Yes!” while crying.

Janet & Stephen Ponichtera

Married March 9, 1985

I knew that my boyfriend was being deployed to Iraq in the next few weeks; I never expected him to propose. I returned home from my grandparents Christmas gathering. I didn’t think my boyfriend was home. I went into the bedroom to find sparkling candles and Kevin dressed in his Marines Dress Blues. He didn’t hesitate. Kevin got on one knee, opened the ring box and asked if I would marry him. “Are you serious?!”

Yes, was clearly my answer, but Kevin still likes to poke fun at my initial reaction.

Ashley & Kevin George

Married July 25, 2009


FEBRUARY Is AMERIcAn HEARt MontHTake Steps Now to Prevent Heart Failure

A weakened heart can be caused by other conditions as well, such as a viral infection, uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, kidney problems, smoking and diabetes. Additionally, obesity contributes to heart failure. “If the body gets too large, the strain on the heart can be tremendous,” Desai says. “Obesity is a real risk factor.”

What Are My Treatment Options?

Once a diagnosis of heart failure is made — through ultrasounds and X-rays of the heart and lungs and other tests — the patient has numerous treatment avenues. Medications are prescribed to increase the heart’s pumping ability, reduce fluid retention and control blood pressure. But drugs alone are not enough. “No medicine is as powerful as common sense,” Desai says. “There is no magic pill.” Heart failure patients must stop smoking and follow a diet that reduces salt and fat intake.

Desai stresses the importance of a daily regimen. Taking all the prescribed medications, eating a proper diet, controlling blood pressure and notifying the healthcare provider of changes in body weight or increased shortness of breath are crucial. Heart failure is a chronic condition, but with proper maintenance, it can be managed. “We can’t cure it, necessarily, but we can help,” Desai says.

ABOUT THE SOURCE: Dr. Aashish Desai is a cardiologist with Cardiovascular Physician’s of North Atlanta (CPNA) at Northside

Hospital. His practice interests include vascular disease, including coronary and peripheral angioplasty, and noninvasive cardiology, including nuclear and cardiac CT imaging.

Are You Doing Everything You Can to Care for Your Heart?

Northside Hospital offers a variety of heart health services, including diagnostics, treatment, rehabilitation and education. To learn more, visit www.northside.com

and search “heart health.”

Most people know the signs of heart attack — even if only from TV: Crushing chest pain that radiates down the left arm, shortness of breath, sweating and anxiety. But what about heart failure? With a slower, insidious onset, this less familiar yet common cardiovascular condition affects about 5 million Americans and factors in 300,000 deaths a year, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. With those numbers, it’s a good idea to understand what heart failure is, what causes it, how it is treated and, most importantly, how it can be prevented.

What Is Heart Failure?

The heart is a pump. Deoxygenated blood enters the heart from the body; the heart pumps the blood into the lungs for oxygenation and filtering, and then circulates the blood back into the body to distribute to the extremities, organs and tissues.

In about 50 percent of heart patients, “the heart is so weak it can’t push enough blood out to the body to meet its needs or it can’t move enough blood through [itself] so it pools in the lungs and tissues,” says Aashish Desai, M.D., cardiologist at Northside Hospital. Over time, symptoms develop, which include shortness of breath (especially upon exertion or when lying down), swelling in the feet and ankles, and general fatigue, Desai says.

What Causes Heart Failure?

Numerous disease processes can cause heart failure, but the most common cause is coronary artery disease. When blood vessels constrict or are built up with plaque caused by cholesterol, less blood flow occurs with increased demand from exercise. This can lead to either reversible injury or permanent damage to heart wall muscle.


You have spent a great deal of time and a commitment on straightening your teeth with braces or Invisalign! Now, you want to maintain your investment in your terrific smile! It is very important to wear your retainer exactly as your orthodontist prescribes. This is essential right after your treatment stops. There is a periodontal ligament around every tooth root that connects it to the surrounding bone. It takes up to a year for your periodontal ligaments to reorganize in the new tooth positions. Until this happens, there is a tendency for your teeth to move back to their original positions from the pulling of these periodontal fibers. If you don’t wear your retainers as prescribed, your teeth will shift!

Dr. Brett Gluck is an orthodontic specialist at The Brace Place. You may contact him at (770) 664-6003 or visit www.bracedoctor.com.

by Brett Gluck, DMD, MS, PC

REtAInERsAfter Orthodontics

There are three basic types of retainers:

1. Essix Retainer Essix retainers are similar to Invisalign aligner trays or whitening trays. They are made of a thin clear material that fits over all surfaces of your teeth.

2. Hawley Retainer These are made of acrylic that rests in your mouth against the back of your teeth, and a wire that sits against the front of your teeth to hold your teeth in position. The acrylic is available in many colors and fun designs, so you can personalize your retainer.

3. Permanent Retainer This type is bonded to the back of your teeth and is not removed. They are usually attached to only the six front teeth. These are often not placed on the back of the upper teeth because the lower teeth often will bite on the bonded retainer.

Your orthodontist can help you decide which type of retainer is right for you. Depending on your orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist may want to use one type of retainer over

continued on page 46


The HCG Diet is a physician monitored weight loss program. It was developed by British endocrinologist, Dr. ATW Simeons in the 1960’s. Dr. Simeons published his manuscript “Pounds and Inches: A New Approach to Obesity,” in 1967. HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is naturally produced in large quantities in women during pregnancy. It allows the body to mobilize abnormal fat stores and use it as energy. It is important to the female and fetus if energy is needed immediately.

The initial use of HCG included treatment of infertility in females and low testosterone levels in males. It was developed using injections as opposed to oral forms. This allows a lower dosage to be administered allowing the body to absorb it better. Dr. Simeons did extensive amounts of research through the years of HCG injections while following a diet plan he created. He proved that men and women responded well to the combination of the two allowing them to lose high amounts of

Adrianna Dukes, Assistant Office Manager at Resplendent Natural Spa & Weight Loss Center, 5755 North Point Pkwy, Ste 55. (770) 777-1061, www.resplendentspa.com

by Adrianna Dukes

Hcg Diet


abnormal fat in short periods of time. In conjunction with the 500 calorie diet, it forces the body to create the same “reaction” and force it to tap into the abnormal fat stores. He discovered HCG affects the hypothalamus gland which regulates the thyroid, adrenals and fat glands. It also helps to adjust the body’s metabolic rate. The calorie intake is limited to 500 because of the amount of calories the body is processing from the release of the abnormal fat stores. Because of this, the body does not feel starved while on the diet. Due to the low intake of calories, strenuous exercise is not encouraged. Resistance training can be included 2 — 3 times a week.

This diet protocol should be monitored by a doctor to ensure wellness of the individual throughout the program. Weight loss can create changes in the body’s chemistry. As this happens, if an individual were taking medication, the doctor may need to adjust the dosage because the body may no longer need to intake the same amount. It also provides a support outreach. Dieting typically requires a type of lifestyle change, whether it is incorporating exercise or just portion control. This diet “resets” the hypothalamus and hormones while also adjusting the metabolism. After following the 500 calorie diet for 43 days, a 1,200 calorie diet should be incorporated for 3 — 4 weeks.


Over the past few years, the topic of tooth bleaching has become very common. There are several different types of tooth bleaching to choose from, and they vary in everything from cost to effectiveness.

As the name implies, tooth whiteners or bleachers lighten the color of the tooth surface because they contain peroxides, or bleach components as the active ingredient. A very common side effect of tooth whitening is sensitivity in the teeth. Teeth contain microscopic dentinal tubules that run from the nerve of the tooth to the surface of the tooth. A tooth will become sensitive when the fluid in these tubes moves around. Normally, minerals in saliva plug the ends of the tubes that are at the tooth surface. The introduction of bleaching gels can dissolve these plugs,

tootH Bleachingby Vishant Nath, DMD

Dr. Vishant Nath is the owner of Roswell Pediatric Dentistry. You may contact him at (678) 352-1090 or visit www.kidshappyteeth.com.

leading to the fluid in the tubes moving around, causing tooth sensitivity. In addition, some individuals are genetically more susceptible to tooth sensitivity. Sensitivity due to tooth bleaching is temporary, and will normally go away when the bleaching is discontinued.

Tooth bleaching is available in many different over the counter dental care products. From toothpastes to mouthwashes to tooth whitening strips, there are quite a few products to choose from that are advertised as having teeth bleaching abilities. These types of tooth whiteners are usually the most inexpensive. The effectiveness of these products will vary depending on such factors as how often and continuously they are utilized.

A visit to your dentist will introduce two more choices in teeth whitening products. Your dentist can make a custom mold of your teeth and provide you with tooth whitening gel to use with this tray/custom mold, for in-home bleaching. Because it is specifically molded to your teeth, this method is usually a bit more effective than those that you can purchase in a store.

The last tooth whitening method is in-office tooth bleaching.




After a long day of work and as we start dinner we have all told our children to go watch TV. When we are talking to an adult, how many times has your child asked to see your iPhone so they can play Angry Birds or another game downloaded from the free app section? All of this hand-held technology from iPhones to XBox and PS2 hand-held game controllers makes life more interesting, but what is less well known is the extent to which it can affect brain development in children.

Herbert Krugman discovered that TV dampens the activity of the critical left brain within 30 seconds of starting to view. Brain wave activity switches from an alert waking state, associated with increased beta activity, to predominant alpha waves, indicating an unfocused, dream like state. “The right brain then becomes highly receptive to images and feelings. Both advertisers and politicians intuitively know how powerful the TV/Brain effect is!” said Martin Large in an article, “Toxic

by LaCretia Munroe, MS, DC

Dr. LaCretia Munroe specializes insports chiropractic, functional neurology, and metabolic solutions.Providing exceptional care for difficult cases. Call the office at (770) 720-0865 or visit www.ahealthybody.com.

vIDEo Games TV? How the TV medium affects children’s learning.” They both aim to get positive images across whilst knowing that rational arguments are secondary. But from this research, children need help switching off, as TV undermines the decision making area of the brain.

The ever increasing amount of gadgets available has increased drastically in recent years. Nintendo’s Wii ensured that console are no longer restricted to hardcore gamers (with over 8 million consoles sales in the UK alone, and games marketed squarely at the family audience). No one could have predicted that such a thing as the average mobile phone would double up as a portable gaming device. It’s all too easy to hand Angry Birds to a bored child. This has lead to babysitting duties being extended from the television to many other devices. The consequence of this is that the early years of child development are being affected.

Hours spent in front of the television, computer or Playstation are sedentary hours. They arouse the brain to various states but they do not exercise the body. There is no physical experience or social interaction. The television is not interested in what a child thinks or what he or she has to say.


Typically influenza (flu) season begins in late fall and lasts through March, with the peak occurring in January and February. Influenza is an acute infection of the nose and throat that can sometimes spread to the lungs as well. Children are among those most likely to develop flu and its complications every year, close to 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized from complications of the flu.

Typical symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Surprisingly, not everyone with the flu will run a fever. In younger children, influenza may present with typical flu symptoms or may appear like croup, bronchitis or pneumonia. Stomach ache, vomiting, diarrhea and irritability are more frequently observed in children.

Influenza is highly contagious. The virus is spread when someone either inhales infected droplets coughed or sneezed out by an infected person. Or someone can catch the flu by touching something that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or nose. People with flu are contagious for a full day before getting sick and for up to 7 days after symptoms begin. Therefore, it is important that any child with the flu stay home from school until they are 24 hours without fever.

The most important thing you can do to protect against the flu is to get a flu vaccine for yourself and your children. Flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older. You and your children can also take routine steps to help prevent the spread of flu germs: cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue; avoid people who are sick; wash hands with soap and water, or, if soap is not available use alcohol-based hand sanitizer; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and wipe down tables, countertops and toys with household disinfectant.

Antiviral drugs are available to treat flu illness. These medicines are not a cure, but they can help people get better a little faster and prevent serious complications that may land a child in the hospital. In general, these medicines must be started within the first 48 hours of symptoms and are primarily used in young children or patients with chronic illnesses that put them at high risk of complications from influenza. For most healthy children 5 years of age and older who get flu symptoms, the most important treatment is to make sure your child gets plenty of rest and drinks lots of fluids and consult your pediatrician as needed.

FLU sEAson Is Here!by Susan Traxler, MD

Dr. Susan Traxler is a practioner with Alpharetta Pediatric Medicine. She can be reached at (770) 664-4430 or visit www.alpharettapediatricsonline.com


by Jeremy McGouirk


FAnDRoIDThere was a time when smartphones were only for the business man or a rich person or those smart enough to afford and understand the data rates. Then the iPhone came out and changed the landscape forever. Now everything is tailored to a mass market of people with smart devices. Android began with Google’s G1 (my first smartphone). It took the iPhone’s concept of apps to a more open source approach. What this means is that instead of going through a checks and balances committee on whether an app gets approved on the App Store, the Android market is literally filled with homebrew apps that the amateur developer has concocted. (By the way, they actually teach a class at Kennesaw State on how to develop for Android!)

So for the nerds out there (we are many) the Android platform serves as the epitome of user choice. Don’t like that big clock on your HTC Android? Replace it. Don’t like how your app drawer scrolls? Download another one. No one Android phone will look the same. This level of openness is not without its downfall. Apps can crash, more often than not. The quality of many apps is not what I would consider 5-star. Lastly, the phone market is literally flooded with Android phones because it costs nothing from a licensing standpoint.

It has painted a fairly poor image of Android to the iPhone purists, as one amazing Android phone is usually lost among the countless awful ones, but we’ve seen some big jumps in the platform and seriously awesome tablets being released. 2011 was the year we saw Android devices turn into remote controls. Android is garnering the attention of a lot of big companies who are developing products and apps for it. Through the use of widgets (little windows that sit on your home screen that allow easy access to apps). I have an app that sits on my screen that tells me what music I’m playing through the speakers in our office and skip the track if I want to.

I’ve seen the Android platform go from simple media tasks to a full-fledged, handheld home controller. At work for instance, I can queue up some music on Rhapsody or Internet radio, turn the lights on full blast or change the volume of the music from the rocker on the side. It’s cool stuff. When I first started this was a technology only supported by the iDevices, but it’s recently reached a much wider audience, in cost and

Jeremy McGouirk is the Digital Lifestyle Specialist of Audio Intersection located at 631 E. Main Street, Canton. For more information, for questions or to set up an appointment, call (770) 770-479-1000.

One of the most important aspects of your home’s heating and cooling system is the duct work. Proper duct work can make a huge difference in the comfort and efficiency of your home. I see a number of customers who simply are talked into replacing the equipment in their homes without analyzing the distribution system and they end up with the same poor comfort level they had before they purchased a new system.

One of the most frequent problems we find is lack of the proper amount of return or intake duct work. A proper operating system has to have the correct amount of return ducts to match the output of the system. Without the correct amount of intakes, many problems will arise such as lack of cooling capacity, overheating furnace heat exchangers, freezing cooling coils and reduced life of the entire system.

Many homes have duct work built out of fiberglass or duct board. This type of duct work is very porous and rough inside, collecting dirt and debris; after a few years of service it is always filthy dirty. Mold grows on the inside of this material and it is very hard to keep the corners and seams sealed up to keep air from leaking out in attics or basements. Metal ducts and plenums need to be installed to replace this inferior product when a new system is installed in your home to assure you of proper airflow, comfort, and efficiency. In some extreme cases and because of trying to save money on new home construction, I find actual splitter boxes or Y-shaped ducts made of this duct board. You can find these by looking for boxes made into triangle shapes with many ducts attached to them. These impede airflow, overwork the furnace blower, and provide inferior comfort to the entire home. They have to be replaced to make sure you are getting the full comfort and efficiency a new HVAC system can provide you.

The last and one of the most important aspects of your ducts is making sure they are sized properly to deliver the correct amount of airflow to each room in your home. Almost every homeowner I visit complains about the comfort in their bonus room or the room over their garage in a two story home. This discomfort is caused by lack of airflow. To make this room comfortable, additional air flow is needed to overcome the heat loss or heat gain.

by Dan Jape

Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating and Air. You may contact him at (770) 594-9096 or visit him online at www.reliableair.com.

The DuctsDon’t FoRgEt


tHE WoRLDIs My Oyster

I hear this idiom every now and then and I wonder, what does it exactly mean? So I went out to seek the true meaning and stumbled on Shakespeare, as in William Shakespeare. Perhaps it came from “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” they say: “Why then, the world’s mine oyster, which I with sword will open.” Huh?

According to my good friend, Google, the idiom basically means you have the freedom to do anything and go anywhere. I’m young and healthy so, “The world is my oyster.”

With that said, I am looking to continue my journey around the world, following my heart and living my dream to do anything and go everywhere.

Michael Consoli is owner of Cruise Planners. You may contact him at (770) 650-7667 or online at www.planmycruise.com.

by Michael Consoli

Thank you Crystal Cruises for announcing your new 2013 line-up: 64 itineraries. 183 ports. 62 countries. All with more two-day calls in certain ports so I can explore the wonders in places such as in St. Petersburg, Ho Chi Minh City, Sydney and Beijing. Plus there are many other overnight destinations in major cities like Istanbul, Osaka and Sorrento, Italy.

But the options don’t stop there. Want to experience the real Carnival? Now you can with an overnight in Rio de Janeiro during its Carnival. How about not just sailing through the canal, but really stopping with a maiden call in Panama City? Yep, that’s all part of Crystal’s new itinerary.

Aside from all the new exotic ports of call, the Crystal experience is warm and gracious. Getting there is an experience in itself.

My last Crystal cruise was in Northern Europe where I got to explore great cities such as St. Petersburg, Copenhagen, Talinn, and Stockholm (among others). It was, by far, my favorite itinerary. I would go again tomorrow!

So back to, “My Oyster.” I’m thinking of Ho Chi Minh City and the foods of Vietnam from the national dish called Pho Bo soup, and Saigon pancakes to vegetable beef in oyster sauce. . .


I had lunch with a friend recently who told me a story that really got my attention. He was recounting another friend’s experience as a missionary on the island of Trinidad. The culture of the island is renowned for being humorous and joyful and this story was both those things, and simply profound.

The missionary (call him James) was walking down the road with a young Trinidadian boy of let’s say 12 or 13 who was drinking a bottle of Coke. The boy began to ask him questions about God. Hearing the inflection with which the boy asked them, James knew the drill and that there would be some punch line to it — but he played along nonetheless. The boy asked, “Is God everywhere?” James replies, “Of course!” “Is He is in the sky?” the boy asks. “Yes, of course,” says James. “Is He on the road with us?” “He certainly is.” “Is God in my bottle of Coke?” continues the boy. “Yes, son, God is in your bottle of Coke,” James responds with a grin. “Then I finally caught you and I’m not letting you go!” squeals the boy as he claps his hand down around the opening of the bottle. Both of them laughed together as they continued on their way.

Now that’s a sweet story but I think also a powerful illustration of how we often think about and interact with God. You see, the one thing most every human would agree upon in regards to God is — He’s not easily caught. He’s mysterious; He’s ineffable; He’s outrageous; He’s God! And, it’s pretty dang impossible to catch God in a bottle; but, oh how we try.

Now obviously we’re not going around attempting to get God to locate Himself inside a bottle or a jar (like kids catching fireflies in summer), but, we spend a lot of time trying to convince ourselves, and often those around us, that we’ve got Him figured out and now we can contain Him, or at the very least, explain Him. NOT! He’s God — He cannot be captured in a bottle, much less in an imaginary box we call theology, church, Christian lifestyle, spiritual disciplines, or anything else.

God is the ever-present lover of His creation. He is everywhere but mostly, through the miracle of the risen Christ, if you believe, He is IN you. He is not stuck there or captured by your own self-made seal. He has placed His Life within you in order that He might also live it through you. Now that’s a story!

IF I coULD cAtcHGod in A Bottle...

Laurie Troublefield is the director of training with Grace Connections. You may contact her at [email protected]

by Laurie Troublefield



In the comic strip “Peanuts,” Lucy says, “I don’t understand love. Explain love to me, Charlie Brown.” He answers, “Well, let’s say I see this beautiful cute little girl walking by…”

Lucy interrupts, “Why does she have to be cute? Huh? Why can’t someone fall in love with freckles, dark hair, and a big nose? Explain that!”

“Maybe you’re right,” Charlie Brown agrees, “Let’s just say I see this girl walk by with a great big nose…”

Lucy screams, “I didn’t say a GREAT big nose.”

Charlie Brown sighs, “You not only can’t explain love, you can’t even talk about it!”

At this time of year when greeting card companies make a great deal of money on Valentine cards and gifts, it is important to remember what love is all about. Love is and always has been a CHOICE. We choose to love or not to love. Just as our Heavenly Father chooses to love us, we respond by loving Him and our neighbors. There is nothing more convincing than God’s love reflected in the character and actions of His children, his followers. The Bible does not teach that love is, “A more excellent way,” it is “THE most excellent way!” Love is the universal language; everyone understands it. Love can melt the hardest heart; can heal the wounds of a broken heart; and can quiet the fears of an anxious heart.

A well-known atheist was incarcerated in a large prison. Despite repeated visits of the Chaplain, no amount of argument or pleading could shake this man from his viewpoint. In spite of all attempts to get in touch with him, he remained hard and callous. One day, however, the breakthrough came. The Chaplain made his normal rounds and attempted to converse with the atheist. But as they were speaking, he noticed the convict’s foot apparently had been injured and now seemed to be bandaged too tightly. The Chaplain stopped speaking, bent over, unbound the bandage; then, rewrapped the man’s foot in a more comfortable way. As he was doing this he felt something wet on the back of his head — the tears of the hardened atheist were falling on his neck. This one act of loving-kindness had accomplished what his

by Ron Bradley

Dr. Ron Bradley is the pastor at First Baptist Church Roswell. You may contact him at (770) 587-6980 or [email protected].

LovE Is A cHoIcEWe Can Learn to Do


Saint Brigid Catholic Church3400 Old Alabama Road, (678) 393-0060Sunday Services: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 5 p.m (Life Teen)www.saintbrigid.org

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church535 Rucker Road, (770) 475-4501Sunday Services: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m. (En Español) 5 p.m (Life Teen)www.sta.org

Alpharetta First Ward500 Norcross Street, (770) 640-7357

Webb Bridge Ward510 Brannon Rd., Cumming, (678) 455-5292

St. Aidans Episcopal Church13560 Cogburn Road, (770) 521-0207Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:30 a.m.www.staidans.org

First Baptist Church of Alpharetta44 Academy Street, (770) 475-6556www.fbca.com

Hopewell Baptist Church15730 Hopewell Road, 770-442-0793

Johns Creek Baptist Church7500 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 623-8203Sunday Services: 11 a.m.www.jcbc.org

New Haven Baptist Church2925 Holcomb Bridge Road, (770) 993-1691

Philadelphia Baptist Church3550 Spruill Circle, (770) 664-6915

Providence Baptist Church20075 Providence Road, (770) 475-3627

Union Hill Baptist ChurchMcGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 475-5077

Vision Baptist Church1125 Alpha Drive, (770) 456-5881Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.www.visionbaptist.com

Bethany Baptist Church2065 Bethany Road, (770) 475-6748

Boiling Springs Primitive Baptist Church1200 Birmingham Road, (404) 444-6490Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.www.boilingspringspbc.org

Bridgeway Church4755 Kimball Bridge Road,(770) 751-1972Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m.www.bridgeway.net

Clear Springs Baptist Church11575 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 475-9223Sunday Services: 11 a.m. www.csbcga.com

Clear Springs Missionary Baptist Church2725 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 664-6863

County Line Baptist Church430 Strickland Road, (770) 475-9429

Crabapple First Baptist12760 Birmingham Highway, (770) 475-6111Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.www.crabapplefbc.org

Cross Plains Baptist Church6500 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 475-1210

Baptist

Episcopal

Catholic

Church of Jesus Christof Latter-Day Saints

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The Lighthouse Church18271 union Hill Road, (770) 664-3644

North Point Community Church4350 Northpoint Parkway, (770) 290-5600Sunday Services: 9, 11 & 12:45 a.m. www.northpoint.org

Spirit of God Christian Church11940 Alpharetta Highway, (770) 777-6889Sunday Services: 10 a.m. www.spiritofgodcc.org

Stonecreek Church13540 Highway 9 North, (770) 754-7900Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m. www.stonecreekchurch.org

Alpharetta Presbyterian180 Academy Street, (770) 751-0033Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m.www.alpharettapres.com

Abundant Life Community Church625-A Sims Industrial Boulevard, (678) 319-9700Sunday Services: 11 a.m.www.livingabundantly.net

Alpharetta Church of God1460 Mid Broadwell Road, (770) 475-5788Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m.www.alpharettachurchofgod.com

Baha’i Faith of Alpharetta10690 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 442-1332

Calvary Chapel200 James Road, (770) 442-8167Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.Calvaryalpharetta.com

Community of Christ3315 Francis Road, (770) 521-1112Sunday Services: 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.www.cofchrist.org

Crabapple Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses910 Mayfield Road, (678) 339-0349

The Hanuman Mandir390 Cumming Street, Suite 1, (770) 475-7701www.thehanuman.org

Inner Quest12830 New Providence Road, (770) 521-2875Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.innerquestchurch.org

Islamic Center of North Fulton1265 Rucker Road, (678) 297-0019www.alpharettamasjid.com

Jehovah’s Witnesses9400 Brumbelow Road, (770) 594-9400

Kingdom Ambassadors Intl. Worship CenterWills Recreation Center11925 Wills Road, 770-853-7231www.crystalstallings.org

Morning Star Chapel2780 Bethany Bend, (678) 319-0041www.morningstarchapel.org

Reach One ChurchMeets at Andretti11000 Alpharetta Hwy, (770) 609-7941Sunday Services: 10:45 a.m.www.reachonechurch.org

Restoration Church of God410 Rucker Road, (770) 751-9697Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.restorationchurchna.org

Chabad of Alpharetta Jewish Center10180 Jones Bridge Road, (770) 410-9000Sunday Services: 9:45 & 10:30 a.m.www.chabadnf.org

Congregation Gesher L’Torah4320 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 777-4009www.gltorah.org

Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church4655 Webb Bridge Road, (770) 475-0640Sunday Services: 8:15, 9:30 & 10:55 a.m. www.cts.org

Lord of Life Lutheran Church ELCA5390 McGinnis Ferry Road, (770) 740-1279Sunday Services: 8:30, 11:00 a.m.Sunday school for all ages at 9:45 a.m.www.lord-life.org

Messiah Lutheran Church - WELS4765 Kimball Bridge Road, (770) 751-9357Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m. www.messiahlutheran.ws

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church ELCA10250 Haynes Bridge Road, (770) 475-4250Sunday Services: 9:15 (Tradtional) & 10:45 a.m. (Modern) www.poplcalpharetta.org

The River Church501 S. Main Street, Suite 101, (678) 860-0971Sunday Services: 10:30 a.m.www.wadeintheriver.org

Alpharetta First United Methodist Church69 North Main Street, (770) 475-5576Sunday Services: 8:30 & 11 a.m.www.afumc.org

Birmingham United Methodist15560 Birmingham Highway, (770) 475-3591Sunday Services: 9:30 & 11 a.m.www.birminghamumc.org

Midway United Methodist Church5025 Highway 9 N, (770) 475-5230Sunday Services: 8:30 & 10:45 a.m.www.midwayumc.org

St. James United Methodist3000 Webb Bridge Road, (678) 762-1543Sunday Services: 8 & 11 a.m.www.stjamesumc.org

Keepin’ It Real Lighthouse, Inc.61 Old Canton Street, (770) 360-5601

Jewish

Lutheran

Methodist

Presbyterian

Other Churches

Non-Denominational

Happy Valentine’s Day!


Alpharetta Adult Activity Center Book ClubContact: Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142

Alpharetta Arts GuildContact: Danita Grant, (678) 994-5630 Website: www.alphaartsguild.com

Alpharetta Bridge ClubContact: Nancy Hetsko, (678) 361-5198 Website: www.alpharettadbc.org

Alpharetta Camera ClubContact: Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142

Alpharetta City Band Contact: Don Nahser, (770) 475-9684

Alpharetta Golden Age Book ClubContact: Lewis Lay, (678) 297-6142

Alpharetta/Roswell Newcomers ClubContact: (678) 318-1442 Website: www.arnewcomers.org

Alpharetta Singles movie clubContact: (770) 662-0916

Alpharetta Walkie Talkies Contact: Lewis Lay, (678) 267-6142

AlphaFretters Dulcimer GroupContact: Dell Makuch, (770) 667-0620

Atlanta Stamp CollectorsContact: John Coles, (770) 962-5888 Website: www.stampclubs.com

Chattahoochee Celtic Pipes & DrumsContact: Rory Howe, (770) 926-6898 or [email protected]

Dudes ‘n Darlins Square Dance Club of AlpharettaContact: 770-751-7210, (770) 361-1237 Website: www.dudesndarlins.com

The Ludwig Symphony OrchestraContact: (770) 623-8623

Milton Garden ClubContact: Faye Troka, (770) 781-4634, [email protected] Website: gardening.meetup.com/172

Multisport Explosion Women’s Only Triathlon Team Contact: Jennifer Lesser, [email protected] Website: multisportexplosionyouthtriathlonteam.com

Multisport Explosion Youth Triathlon Team Contact: Lisa Marshall, (404) 308-6656 [email protected] Website: multisportexplosionyouthtriathlonteam.com

North Fulton Amateur Radio LeagueContact: Jim Stafford, W4Q0, (770) 993-9500

Newtown RecreationContact: (678) 297-2662

Songs of Atlanta ChorusContact: (770) 977-4031

Ryan Lee Holland Cancer Foundation, IncContact: Jacqueline Holland, 678-242-0471 [email protected]: www.ryanleehollandfoundation.com

United Way of AtlantaContact: (770) 614-1000

Alpharetta American Legion, Auxiliary Unit 201 Contact: (770) 475-9023

Alpharetta Junior Women’s ClubContact: Debora, (678) 218-5732 Website: www.ajwc.net

Alpharetta Optimist ClubContact: Greg Cabrera, (770) 752-8122

Alpharetta Lions ClubContact: Garner Andrews, (770) 475-9344

Alpharetta Roswell Newcomers ClubContact: Barb Hill, (678) 318-1442

American Association of University Women North Fulton BranchContact: [email protected] Website: www.aauwnorthfultonga.wordpress.com

Girl Scouts of Greater AtlantaWebsite: gsgatl.org

Junior League of Gwinnett and North Fulton Counties, Inc.Contact: Crystal D Weitzel, (770) 476-3090 Website: www.jlgnf.org

North Fulton JayceesContact: Wendell Whitefield, (404) 786-2665

North Fulton Optimist ClubContact: Glenn Rudh, (404) 375-7033 [email protected]

Rotary Club of North FultonContact: Joyce Abernathy, (770) 475-0656 Website: www.northfultonrotary.org

VFW Post 12002Website: www.12002.net

Chattahoochee Republican Women’s ClubContact: Marjean Birt, [email protected]

North Fulton DemocratsContact: Anne, (404) 303-9142, ext. 2

North Fulton Republican Women’s ClubContact: Suzi Voyles, (404) 851-9704 [email protected]

BNI-Alpharetta Accelerators ChapterContact: Jim Somers, (770) 753-2032 Website: www.bniatlanta.com

National Association of Women Business OwnersContact: (678) 539-8090 Website: www.nawboatlanta.org

The North Fulton Bar AssociationContact: Charles Gabriel, (678) 735-5900 Website: www.northfultonbar.com

GA 400 RainmakersContact: Ben Staten, (404) 323-0049Website: www.ga400rainmakers.com

North Metro Women’s ConnectionContact: Rosan Hall, (770) 335-6013

Northside Business Network GroupContact: Diane Williford, (770) 594-2200

PowercoreContact: Jeremy Faulkner, (404) 816-3377 Website: www.powercore.net

Alpharetta Clean and BeautifulContact: (678) 297-6200

Basset Hound Rescue of GeorgiaContact: (770) 499-1164

Child Development AssociationContact: (770) 992-4339 Website: www.cdakids.org

Children’s Restoration NetworkContact: (770) 649-7117

Companion Animal ConnectionContact: (678) 493-9847 Website: www.cacadopt.petfinder.com

Foster Care Support FoundationContact: Rachel Ewald, (770) 641-9591 Sharon Franklin, (404) 729-3374 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fostercares.org

Friends of the Alpharetta LibraryContact: (770) 740-2425 E-mail: [email protected]: www.fotal.org

HomestretchContact: (770) 642- 9185

North Fulton Community CharitiesContact: (770) 640-0399 Website: www.nfcchelp.org

North Fulton Senior ServicesContact: (770) 993-1906 Website: www.ssnorthfulton.org

Business Organizations

Charitable Organizations

Civic Organizations

Political Organizations

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Support Organizations

Southern Winds Concert BandContact: George Cekis, (404) 295-5093 [email protected]

Stars Soccer Club — Men’s LeagueContact: (678) 366-9008 Website: www.StarsSoccerClub.com

Writers Network Contact: Bobby Christmas, (770) 924-0528

Alcoholics AnonymousContact: Barb G., (770) 686-3082

Anorexia Nervousa and Associated Eating Disorders — ANAContact: Kim, (404) 307-5442

Atlanta Harm Reduction CenterContact: (404) 817-9994 Website: www.atlantaharmreduction.org

Bereavement Support Group Contact: Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767

Brain Injury and Stroke GroupContact: (770) 751-2650

Care Partner Support GroupContact: Dawn Reed, (678) 777-7241

Diabetes Support GroupContact: Joe Mengoni, (770) 889-7577

Emotions Anonymous (EA)Contact: Suzanne, (404) 307-1735

Foster Care Support GroupContact: Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)Contact: Lee H., (678) 576-4838

National Alliance on Mental Illness — NAMIContact: Jerry Bishop, (678) 446-5080 [email protected]

Overeaters Anonymous Contact: Bill, (770) -992-6481

Parkinson’s Support GroupContact: Patty Hampton, (770) 261-1767

SAContact: (770) 993-7253

S-AnonContact: (770) 993-7253


President Barack Obama (D) (202) 456-1414 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue fax: (202) 456-2461 Washington, D.C. 20500 Website: www.whitehouse.gov

Senator Saxby Chambliss (R) (202) 224-3521 Senate Russell Courtyard-2 GA: (770) 763-9090 Washington, D.C. 20510 fax: (202) 224-0103 Website: http://chambliss.senate.gov

Senator Johnny Isakson (R) (202) 224-3643 1 Overton Park, Suite 970 GA: (770) 661-0999 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339 fax: (770) 661-0768 Website: http://isakson.senate.gov

Rep. Tom Price (R), District 6 (202) 225-4501 P.O. Box 425, Roswell, GA 30077 GA: (770) 565-4990 Website: http://tom.house.gov fax: (770) 565-7570

Rep. John Linder (R), District 7 (202) 225-4272 90 North Street, Suite 360 GA: (770) 479-1888 Canton, GA 30114-2724 fax: (770) 497-2999 Website: www.linder.house.gov

Rep. Tom Graves (R), District 9 (202) 225-5211 90 North Street, Suite 360 GA: (770) 535-2592 Canton, GA 30114-2724 fax: (202) 225-8272 Website: www.linder.house.gov

Governor Nathan Deal (R) (404) 656-1776 203 State Capitol fax: (404) 657-7332 Atlanta, GA 30334 Website: www.gov.ga.gov.com

State Senator David Shafer (R) (D-48) (404) 656-0048 421-F State Capitol fax: (404) 651-6768 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Senator John Albers (R) (D-56) local: (678) 667-3656 511 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. business: (404) 463-8055 Atlanta, GA 30334 fax: (404) 656-6484 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Jan Jones (R) (D-46) (404) 656-5072 340 State Capitol fax: (404) 657-0498 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Chuck Martin (R) (D-47) (404) 656-5072 340 State Capitol fax: (404) 657-0498 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Harry Geisinger (R) (D-48) (404) 656-0254 601 Coverdell Legislative Bldg. fax: (770) 594-1510 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Wendell Willard (R) (D-49) (404) 656-5125 132 State Capitol fax: (404) 481-7111 Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Mark Burkhalter (R) (D-50) (770) 418-9098 401 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

State Rep. Tom Rice (R) (D-51) (404) 656-5912 220 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 e-mail: [email protected]

Superior Court: Chief Judge Doris L. Downs (404) 730-4991

State Court: Chief Judge A.L. Thompson (404) 613-4497 Magistrate Court: Chief Judge Stephanie Davis (404) 613-4433 Probate Court: Judge Pinkle T. Toomer (770) 613-4070

Juvenile Court: Chief Judge Sanford Jones (770) 612-4401

Court of Clerks: Cathelene Robinson (404) 730-5300

141 Pryor St. S.W. Atlanta, GA 30303 (678) 493-6000 www.fultoncountyga.gov fax: (678) 493-6013

John H. Eaves (D-1) (404) 612-8206 e-mail: [email protected]

Robb Pitts (D-2) (404) 612-8210 e-mail: [email protected]

Liz Hausmann (D-3) (404) 612-8213 e-mail: [email protected]

Tom Lowe (D-4) (404) 612-8218 e-mail: [email protected]

Emma I. Darnell (D-5) (404) 612-8222 e-mail: [email protected]

Joan P. Garner (D-6) (404) 612-8226 e-mail: [email protected]

William Edwards (D-7) (404) 612-8230 e-mail: [email protected]

Linda Schultz (D-1) [email protected]

Katie Reeves (D-2) [email protected]

Ashley Widener (D-5) [email protected]

Julia Bernath (D-7) [email protected]

Fulton County Schools Superintendent: (404) 768-3600 Robert M. Avossa, Ed.D. 786 Cleveland Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30315 e-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fultonschools.org

Fulton County Medical Examiner: Randy Hanzlick, MD (404) 730-4400 430 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30312 fax: (404) 730-4405 e-mail: [email protected]

Fulton County Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Theodore Jackson (404) 612-5100 185 Central Avenue SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 Website: www.fultonsheriff.org

Fulton County Tax Commissioner: Arthur E. Ferdinand (404) 730-4000 141 Pryor Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303

City of Alpharetta (678) 297-6020

City of Milton (678) 242-2484

United States Government Courts

Board of Commissioners

Board of Education

Other

State Government

David Belle [email protected]

Mayor Joe [email protected]

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11605 Haynes Bridge Rd,

Ste. 100, Alpharetta

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Means Business! Its mission is to be the catalyst for economic development, business growth, and quality of life in North Fulton.

770-993-8806

www.gnfcc.com

Brandon Beach, president and CEO of The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, announced the installation of William Edward “Teddy” Russell II, Chief Financial Officer, Russell Landscape Group, Inc., as Chairman of the Board. Russell becomes the Chamber’s 40th Chairman, and succeeds Andy Macke of Comcast Cable Communications.

In making the announcement, Brandon said, “Teddy has been a valued and active member of the GNFCC, and will be a tremendous asset to the leadership of the Chamber in the North Fulton community. We are very fortunate to have Teddy as our Chairman of the Board.”

Teddy responded to his appointment, saying, “I am honored to be selected as the Chairman. The Greater North Fulton Chamber is a catalyst for business and a leader in economic development in the region as well as the entire state. I am excited to work with Brandon Beach, the chamber staff and the board in an effort to continue the many past successes.”

GNFCC 40th ChairmanGNFCC 2012 Board of Directors

Teddy Russell40th GNFCC Chairman

Brandon Beach, president and CEO of The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce announced the installation of the 2012 Board of Directors. In welcoming the new Board, Beach said, “The Chamber is very fortunate to have such a distinguished and active group of community and business

leaders serving at its helm. The North Fulton area will benefit greatly from their guidance and direction.”

The 2012 Board of Directors includes: J. Davis Adams, Southeastern U.S. Development Inc.; Kerry Armstrong, Duke Realty Corporation; Sharon Bartels, Gwinnett Technical College; Brad Beisbier, RBC Bank; Jeff Bellamy, Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc.; Hon. David Belle Isle, City of Alpharetta; Bill Bland, Choate Construction Company; Hon. Mike Bodker, City of Johns Creek; Dennis Boyden, AT&T Georgia; Susan Brown, North Ridge Restoration, LLC; Mark Burkhalter, McKenna Long & Aldridge, LLP; Wendy Butler, Wendy Butler & Assoc.; Raj Carpenter, Shaw Environmental & Infrastructure; Ken Cornelius, Siemens; Dave Coulter, Apex Signs & Graphics; Arin Crandall, Wells Fargo; Michael Cross, Briskin, Cross & Sanford, LLC; Ken Davis, Renasant Bank; Nancy Davis, Georgia Power Company; John Dorris, Corporate Communications Group; Lou Douglass, LJD Resource Group, LLC; Jason Fazio, G4S Wackenhut; Tim Gaffney, Gillman Insurance Group; Hon. Eva Galambos, City of Sandy Springs; Alan Golden, CHA Consulting, Inc.; Todd Gordon, The Benefits Group, Inc.; Jennifer Hall, SunTrust Commercial Banking; Mark Hancock, The Private Bank; Freda Hardage, Northside Hospital; Liz Hausmann, Fulton County Board of Commissioners; John Hipes, Bach, Dewberry & Hipes, LLC; Penn Hodge, Pioneer Real Estate; Don Howard, Bank of North Georgia; Shane Jackson, Jackson Healthcare; Randall Johnson, City of Johns Creek; Debbie Keel, North Fulton Hospital; Beverly Langford, LMA Communication, Inc.; Hon. Dennis Leonard, UcanBankOnIt; Joe Lockwood, J.K. Lockwood Construction Co., Inc.; Roger Lusby, Frazier & Deeter, LLC; Andy Macke, Comcast Cable Communications; Paul Maggard, Maggard Ventures; Tino Mantella, Technology Association of Georgia, Inc.; Dean Marianos, Atlanta Gas Light Co.; Robert Mimms, Mimms Enterprises; Brand Morgan, Brand Properties; Paul Morochnik, Weissmann Zucker Euster Morochnik P.C.; Janice Mosley, Verizon Wireless; Brian Mould, Better Office Systems; Al Nash, Parallax Advisory Group; Prince Niyyar, Commdex Consulting; Adam Orkin, Orkin & Associates, LLC; Chris Owens, Lowe Engineers; Jeff Parker, HNTB Corporation; Jay Patel, North Point Hospitality Group, Inc.; Andy Perlmutter, Better World Books; Trevor Ralph, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra/Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre At Encore Park; John Rasper, DeKalb Office; Bob Regus, City of Alpharetta; Brian Riggins, Magnolia Golf Group; Frank Roedl, Bank of North Georgia; Teddy Russell, Russell Landscape Group, Inc.; Katherine Simons, DDS Staffing Resources, Inc.; Tom Spurlin, Spurlin & Associates; Steve Stroud, Stroud’s Printing & Design, Inc.; Erwin Thomas, Philips Healthcare; Alan Thomes, State Bank & Trust; Danny Tompkins, Admin America; Lee Tucker, Mahaffey Pickens Tucker, LLP; Bobby Vickery, Thompson Engineering, Inc.; Don Welsko, LexisNexis Risk Solutions; Pete White, A.C. White Relocation Services; Trey Wise, Quantum National Bank; Connie Woltz, First Citizens Bank; and Hon. Jere Wood, City of Roswell.(Photograph courtesy of Clark Savage, Clayton CameraCraft Photography


Love is a choice continued from page 39

video games continued from page 34Fandroid continued from page 36

availability. Now that Android is finally being realized as a contender, we get to share some of the innovation and ease of use through total home control. Android is no longer “like the iPhone,” it’s actually being praised on its own merits. Probably the one frightening thing is that there is no going back to a standard flip phone. Unless of course that flip phone turns into a jet.

many words could not: it had touched the man’s heart.

Mother Teresa of Calcutta wrote, “To show great love for God and our neighbor we need not do great things. It is how much love we put in the doing that makes our offering something beautiful for God.” During this month of February let us remember that love isn’t just a feeling, love is something we do! Love is something we can learn to do!

tooth Bleaching continued from page 33

Retainers After orthodontics continued from page 31

Hcg Diet continued from page 32

This is typically the most effective method of tooth whitening. The effectiveness of the peroxide is enhanced through several factors. The teeth will be kept dry during the process through the use of gauze as well as a device called a retractor, which will pull the lips away from the teeth while the peroxide is applied. The gel can be left on for 30 to 60 minutes. Also, sometimes the teeth will be exposed to a curing light or laser to further activate the peroxide.

another. Talk to your orthodontist to find out what is best for your situation.

Whatever type of retainer you have, it’s important to wear it as instructed. During the initial period with removable retainers, you will wear them full-time for several months. After this, your orthodontist will tell you that it’s OK to wear them every night. Further down the road, you may be able to wear them only a few nights a week. If you completely stop wearing your retainer, your teeth will shift. The orthodontic profession universally suggests some type of indefinite retention. Otherwise, your teeth will move! Don’t lose your investment in a great smile!

Television and video games fully present the child with a scenario – there is no requirement or opportunity for imagination or invention. Also, a video game responds completely to the child’s directions. The child does not learn the art of compromise, or that, in ‘real life,’ they have to wait their turn to speak or interact. They do not encounter situations that allow for real social and emotional development.

Over use of computers and computer games may also affect the developing visual skills of the young child. Children become good at rapid shifts of visual attention within their field of vision, but hand-held computer games do not develop the smooth sequential eye movements needed to follow a line of print without the eyes jumping further along the line, to the line above or the line below. Children become good at rapidly decoding individual symbols, shapes or pictures on a screen, but are not as good at following a series of symbols from left to right and decoding them in an accurate sequence. This is important for spelling.

Not everybody agrees. Some therapist would perceive the advantages for physical development in children from playing on video games. Although the systems were created with fun in mind, they can be used to help children improve in many areas of development. They can help with focus, attention, balance, coordination, visual-spatial skills, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and motor planning.

Just remember there is not a substitute for going outside running, jumping and playing with other children. There are no social skills required to play with a video game. Imagination is one of our children’s greatest gifts to the world. Family time is our greatest gift as a parent.

Food intake should still be moderate without feeling any need to overeat. This is a great chance to start incorporating healthy eating habits and a regular exercise routine. This will help maintain overall health and weight.

Reference Website: http://www.hcgdietcouncil.org/

No matter which method of tooth bleaching appeals to you, talk to your dentist to find out more about which products and methods they recommend. No matter what your budget might be, there is a product out there for you!

My AlphArettA Monthly




Dentist/Orthodontists

Brett Gluck, DMD 1

Buckley Dental Care 35

DeMercy Dental 5

Roswell Pediatric Dentist Inside Front Cover

Education/Instruction/Counseling

LAO’WN Academy 17

Young Life Academy 35

Home Improvement/Repair/Service

Atlanta Quality Roofing 3

Audio Intersection 32

Meer Electric 3

Outdoor Environment unlimited, Inc. 5

Reliable Heating, Air & Plumbing 33

Photography

PhotoJack.net Inside Front Cover

C&W Photography 43

Physicians & Medical Services

A Healthy Body Inside Back Cover

Alpharetta Pediatric Medicine 39

Northside Hospital-Forsyth 7

Northside Hospital CPNA 9

Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center 3

Wholebody Systems Cover, 20, 21

Services/Retailers/Miscellaneous

Cruise Planners 34

The Cumming Playhouse 9

GhostNet 37

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce 45

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

Business Expo 31

Premier Pool Enterprises 19

Roswell Wedding Showcase 15

Businesses listed in bold italic type denote new or returning advertisers to My Alpharetta Monthly.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners

Automotive

Insurance

Carpet Dry Tech 38

Troncalli Service Department 19

Nationwide Therese Lynn Johnson Agency 38

North Georgia Accounting Consultants, Inc. 5

Restaurants/Food Services

Schakolad Chocolate Factory Back Cover

Cleaning Services

The Maids 5

Health & Beauty

LaVida Massage Inside Back Cover

Resplendent Natural Spa & Weight Loss Center 1

ADvERtIsERlocal, local, Your Community

Banking/Financial Services

Documents

02/12 Alpharetta