Fun for Fall By Michelle Martin The crisp chill in the air, rich aroma of fresh-baked apple pie, and flurry of festivals and other activities remind us that fall is here. We've compiled a "ghostly guide" of farm attractions, haunted trails, pumpkin carvings, and local festivals to help your family have a "frightfully fun" time together this fall! Oktoberfest at Tanglewood FarmOctober 1-31Wednesday-Friday: 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.Tanglewood Farm gets into the Halloween spirit by offering night-mare pony rides, pickings from its pumpkin patch and miniature scares in its not-so-scary haunted barn throughout October. Visitors can pet and feed more than 100 miniature animals on the farm. Reservations are preferred for groups of 20 or more. 171 Tanglewood Drive, Canton. 770-667-MINI, TanglewoodFarmMiniatures.com Big Springs FarmsWeekends-October 26Friday-Sunday: 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.Theres plenty of fall fun at the farm, from wagon hayrides to animal adventures, inflatables and face painting, and a new corn maze! Admission and parking are free, but there is a charge for certain activities. Come out and meet Willie, the pet pig; donkeys Molly and Bubba; and chickens and goats. Choose from hundreds of pumpkins of all sizes from Wee Be Little, around 1 pound, to Big Max, at 50-60 pounds! Prices vary by size. 2100 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock. 678-899-3900, BigSpringsFarms.com Oktoberfest First FridayOctober 3Kick off the fall season at Cantons First Friday. The Oktoberfest theme will feature beer, brats and Southern rock n roll! Cannon Park, Downtown Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com Zombie FestOctober 3-4Zombie Fest, presented by Cherokee FOCUS, returns this year with a new Fun Run & 5K race (6:00 p.m. registration, October 3, at Hobgood Park in Woodstock) and a new motorcycle ride (3:30 p.m. registration, October 4, from Kotic Kustoms in Woodstock). The Zombie Fest main event will begin at 5:00 p.m., October 4, at Cannon Park in Canton and will feature Chandler Riggs from The Walking Dead as special guest host; a Little Zombies inflatable zone; zombie transformation stations; a Left 4 Dead 2 tournament, zombie costume contest and brain-eating contest; food trucks, tents and other vendors; ghost tours in Cantons old cemetery; and Scooby Doo on Zombie Island and Night of the Living Dead movies at the historic Canton Theatre. Admission is a $5 donation to benefit Cherokee FOCUS, Cherokee Youth Council, and the Drug-Free Cherokee Initiative. Cannon Park, Downtown Canton. CherokeeZombieFest.com City of Holly Springs' Autumn FestOctober 4, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.There is something for everyone at the City of Holly Springs 11th annual Autumn Fest. Come out and enjoy shopping from local arts and crafts vendors; live music from Aspen Countryman and the Alligator Hat Band; kids inflatables and pumpkin painting; a pumpkin seed-spitting contest; and lots of yummy festival food! A free shuttle will run from Barrett Memorial Park to Holly Springs Elementary School. Barrett Memorial Park, 120 Park Lane, Holly Springs. 770-345-5536, HollySpringsGA.us/AutumnFest Ghost Tails & TrailsOctober 23-25, 6:30 p.m.Laugh and enjoy a creepy good time featuring stagings of Edgar Allen Poes spooky writings along the path at the Elm Street Event Green and outdoor stage. Written by Park Cofield and Jason Jenkins, and directed by Harmony Reid, The Poe Project is recommended for ages 8 and up. Tours leave every 20 minutes. Tickets are available in advance and at the door. Event Green at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, 111 Elm St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251, ElmStreetArts.org Canton Fall FestivalOctober 25, 10:00 a.m.Bring the kids to Cannon Park for trick-or-treating with local merchants, a kids costume contest, games and activities, and the last Canton Farmers Market of the season. The Fall Festival also will feature the Main Street Inferno Chili Cook-Off, beginning at 12:00 p.m. Cannon Park, Downtown Canton. 770-704-1500, Canton-Georgia.com KidsFestOctober 31, 3:00-7:00 p.m.Young ghouls and goblins will enjoy trick-or-treating and other family-friendly fall activities, including Tim the Magician; Adam the Juggler; DJ Ronnie; stringed apple and pumpkin bowling games; moonwalks; bobbing for apples; face painting; candy giveaways; food vendors; and much more! Trophies and prizes will be given for the scariest, funniest, cutest and best costumes. A movie in the park will start at 7:00 p.m. The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Downtown Woodstock. 770-517-6788, WhatsUpWoodstock.com
Fun for Fall By Michelle Martin The crisp chill in the air, rich aroma of fresh-baked apple pie, and flurry of festivals and other activities remind us that fall is here. We've compiled a "ghostly guide" of farm attractions, haunted trails, pumpkin carvings, and local festivals to help your family have a "frightfully fun" time together this fall! Alpharetta Scarecrow HarvestOctober 4, 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.Alpharetta's downtown streets will be lined with 100 scarecrows to celebrate fall! Free family entertainment will include live music from High Cotton, cornhole games, inflatables, face painting, historical demonstrations and story-telling. Hayrides to the Future Farmers of America log cabin will be offered beginning at 11:00 a.m. Be sure to check out the special fall items at the Alpharetta Farmers Market, too. Old Roswell & Old Canton streets, Historic Downtown Alpharetta. 678-297-6078, Alpharetta.Ga.Us Crabapple FestOctober 4, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.Shop for antiques and art pieces from hundreds of juried vendors at this huge annual fall festival, presented by the City of Milton and the Crabapple Community Association. The festival also will include a live music stage featuring local and touring acts; children's area; beer garden; and food trucks and vendors. Free parking and shuttle service are available at Crabapple Crossing Elementary School and Crabapple Baptist Church. Mayfield and Broadwell roads, Milton. 678-242-2530, CityOfMilton.Ga.us Halloween Hikes at Chattahoochee Nature CenterOctober 17-18 & 24-25, 7:00-10:00 p.m.CNC's lighted trails provide a fun alternative to traditional Halloween activities. Guided night hikes will offer visitors a magical experience with Woodland costumed characters who will share stories about their lives. Other activities will include a bonfire, world music by Scott Douglas, face painting, and Halloween crafts. 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770-992-2055,ChattNatureCenter.org It's The Great Pumpkin CarveOctober 18, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.Avoid the mess of carving a pumpkin at home and come out for a community pumpkin-carving event. The City of Roswell Recreation and Parks Dept. will provide the pumpkins, carving kits and patterns, as well as music and refreshments! All Ages. Pre-registration is required. East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com Halloween Fun HouseOctober 24, 4:30-7:00 p.m.Children ages 8 and under are invited to a free Halloween Fun House, featuring carnival games, inflatables, face painting, hayrides, and more. Concessions will be available for purchase. East Roswell Recreation Center, 9000 Fouts Road, Roswell. 770-594-6134, RoswellGov.com Mother-Son Halloween DanceOctober 25, 7:00-9:00 p.m.Mothers and sons, get your Halloween costumes and come out for a spooky holiday dance! This special Mother-Son Halloween Dance will feature music and dancing, games, prizes, refreshments, pictures, and lots of fun! Costumes are not required. All ages are welcome. Each guest must register. Bill Johnson Community Activity Building, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. RoswellGov.com Johns Creek Arts FestivalOctober 25, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.October 26, 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.Bring the family to Johns Creek's annual two-day arts festival, featuring works from more than 100 artisans, a children's play area, and live entertainment from local artists. Dress your pet for the pet parade and contest for "Best Costume," "Cutest Critter," and "Best of Show." Fields of the Atlanta Athletic Club, 1930 Bobby Jones Dr., Johns Creek. JohnsCreekArtsFestival.com Jr. Spooky MillOctober 24, 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Spooky Mill activities in Heritage Village will be offered during the daytime and will be specially designed for children ages 3-6. Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek. 678-366-3511, AutreyMill.org Spooky MillOctober 24-25, 6:00-9:00 p.m.Enjoy two evenings of Trick-or-Treating in the Heritage Village, featuring a haunted house, maze, carnival games, and more! Autrey Mill Nature Preserve & Heritage Center, 9770 Autrey Mill Road, Johns Creek. 678-366-3511, AutreyMill.org Spooktacular Family Hallowscream FestivalOctober 25, 4:00-9:00 p.m.Wills Park will transform into "Nightmare on Wills Street" at dark! Activities will include hayrides, inflatables, and face painting. Concessions will be available for purchase. Wills Park Recreation Center, 11925 Wills Road, Alpharetta. 678-297-6143, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. House on Horror HillThursday-Saturday, October 9-November 1The North Fulton Jaycees are ready to scare you with the oldest and longest-running haunted house in Georgia! Sights and sounds will combine to send shivers down your spine! The house opens after dark; if you can't find it, just listen for the screams of fright! Call or visit the website for ticket information. 1650 Alpharetta Highway, Alpharetta. 404-786-2665, GaHouseOnHorrorHill.com
Woodstock Pediatric Medicine Relationship Approach to Children's Healthcare By Michelle Martin As fall ushers in the start of another flu season, the doctors at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine urge parents to vaccinate their children in an effort to keep their family healthy. "The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the flu vaccine for most children beginning at 6 months of age," says Dr. Jordana Heaven, one of the physicians for Woodstock Pediatric Medicine. "To help prevent younger infants from being exposed to the flu, it's important for parents and older siblings to get the annual flu vaccine as well. Our first approach to pediatric care at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine is prevention, so we offer the flu vaccine not only to our pediatric patients but also to their parents and older siblings. As with any illness, the best line of defense against the flu is taking the proper steps to prevention before it becomes an epidemic." Woodstock Pediatric Medicine has provided comprehensive pediatric care to infants, children and adolescents in Woodstock and surrounding Cherokee County communities for more than 15 years. The entire medical team Drs. Maren Bear, Jordana Heaven, Adriana Rzeznik and Frini Shah, along with Shannon Dobson, nurse practitioner is board-certified and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). In addition to flu vaccines, Woodstock Pediatric Medicine's services include prenatal consultation; newborn care; annual well exams; sports physicals; treatment of acute illnesses, injuries, ADHD and behavioral issues; nutritional counseling; and immunizations recommended by the AAP. In most instances, same-day appointments are available. "We want to be accessible to our patients and their parents on a daily basis, whatever their medical needs," says Dr. Shah, noting that parents also can call the 24/7 nurse hotline for after-hours issues and emergencies. Dr. Heaven describes Woodstock Pediatric Medicine as providing "patient-centered" care based on current AAP guidelines. "We strive to be a partner to our patients and their parents. We like to think of ourselves as 'tour guides,' pointing out recommended care options that help parents make the best decision for their children's immediate medical needs and overall wellness." Woodstock Pediatric Medicine also emphasizes the importance of immunizations in keeping children healthy. "Many parents think immunizations are no longer necessary because the diseases covered by certain immunizations are no longer at epidemic levels like they once were," says Dr. Rzeznik. "The reality is that there is no longer an epidemic due to the widespread practice of immunization over the past 40 years. But, as more parents have moved away in recent years from immunizing their children according to AAP recommendations, we have personally seen an increase in whooping cough, measles and other illnesses. As partners in their children's health, we take every opportunity to educate parents on the proven safety of immunizations and the critical role they play in preventing illnesses that could result in serious long-term issues even death for their children." Having served the Woodstock and Cherokee communities in the same location for more than 15 years, Woodstock Pediatric Medicine offers a continuity of care that is vital to patients' long-term overall wellness. "We believe a personal relationship with our patients, built over time as their primary physician, gives us a better understanding of their complete medical history for a more accurate diagnosis," says Dr. Bear. "Seeing our patients year after year for their annual well exam makes it easier for us to notice those subtle differences when they're not feeling well. Plus, patients feel comfortable coming to us and their parents can rest assured that their children will always receive the same standard of quality, personal care from our doctors, nurses, assistants and administrative staff." Dr. Rzeznik notes that the level of specialty care by the experienced pediatric physicians at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine can't be matched at "minute clinics" or emergency medical centers. "We are experts in pediatric care. We have access to our patients' entire medical history. We know which medications work for them and which ones don't," she says. "We take same-day appointments, including Saturdays, and are on call for after-hours emergencies. Woodstock Pediatric Medicine is the complete, around-the-clock pediatric care provider." Parents have trusted Woodstock Pediatric Medicine for their children's healthcare for generations. Many former patients are now parents themselves and, as Dobson explains, chose Woodstock Pediatric Medicine for their own children's pediatric care based on the trust and relationship they experienced firsthand when they were children. "We also have several sibling groups who bring all of their children here. Those extended relationships give us a more complete picture of their family medical history, which allows us to care for them on a different level," she says. To give back to the community for its support over the years, the medical team and administrative staff at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine participate in a variety of outreach efforts. They try to support patients' causes as much as possible, especially programs that help raise funds for medical research; collect school supplies for Children's Restoration Network's annual back-to-school backpack giveaway for children in need; and work with local schools and organizations to "adopt" families at Christmas. In addition, Dr. Shah participates in a three-day walk for breast cancer each October, and Dobson runs in Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's annual 5K race. Kelly Marulanda, office manager, and Dr. Rzeznik traveled to Peru recently as part of a children's missions project with a local church. "It was such a rewarding and humbling experience," Marulanda says. "The children we ministered to there had never seen a physician or even a photograph of themselves. After our experience with the Peru mission, we want to expand our involvement into other areas in the future." Dr. Heaven has volunteered with Camp Kudzu, a sleep-away camp for children with Type 1 diabetes, in Cleveland, Ga., for the past 15 years. Some camp participants are also patients of Woodstock Pediatric Medicine. "It is a neat experience to relate on a different level," says Dr. Heaven. "For many children, Camp Kudzu is their first overnight experience away from home. It's rewarding for me to play a part in helping them become more independent and build valuable life skills that they can't learn in the medical office, and then build on that new relationship throughout their pediatric care." Relationships are at the heart of the personal care provided by everyone at Woodstock Pediatric Medicine. "We are a tight-knit group, like family this is our home away from home," explains Dr. Bear. "We enjoy what we do, and that reflects in the type of care that we offer to our patients." Woodstock Pediatric Medicine2000 Professional Way, Woodstock770-517-0250WoodstockPeds.com8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday(Closed 12:00-1:00 p.m. for lunch) Jordana Heaven, M.D.Special Interests: Adolescent Medicine, Diabetes, Thyroid, Growth Issues Adriana Rzeznik, M.D.Special Interests: Nutrition, Healthy Eating Frini Shah, M.D.Special Interests: Childhood Obesity Maren Bear, M.D.Special Interests: Newborn Care, Breastfeeding, Asthma Shannon Dobson, CPNPSpecial Interests: Newborn Care, Childhood Obesity
Northside Hospital Breast Care Program Alpharetta location brings expert, personalized care to patients locally By Michelle Martin October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and a good opportunity to remind women in the North Fulton community to perform monthly breast cancer self-exams at home and to schedule their annual mammogram. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. This year alone, 232,670 cases of invasive breast cancer are expected nationally with more than 7,000 cases in Georgia. These startling statistics underscore the importance for women to be educated about breast health and have access to quality breast care services. Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta provides comprehensive, quality medical services for breast care for women in the North Fulton and surrounding communities. Recently designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology, Northside Hospital's full-service breast care program in Alpharetta features the most advanced technology available for routine screenings; diagnostic imaging; radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy; physical and occupational therapy; genetic counseling and testing; and clinical research studies. In addition, the Alpharetta location has a fully accredited outpatient surgery suite for breast mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. Certified nurses and counselors provide important educational and emotional support as well, helping guide patients throughout their entire breast care experience. The comprehensive services, support and care offered at the convenient Alpharetta program are part of the acclaimed Northside Hospital network and Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, which leads the Southeast in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Patients can trust they will receive the same level of quality care by Northside Hospital's highly trained and experienced medical team at a location that is convenient and close to home. The recent accreditation of the Northside Hospital Breast Care Center at Alpharetta as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence offers patients additional reassurance that they are receiving the highest quality care available from a program that meets the American College of Radiology's rigorous standards for physician expertise and care, procedures and technology. Dr. Iqbal Garcha, chief of staff for Northside Hospital, has been involved in developing the Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta. His approach to patient care is built on "integrated, well-coordinated, multi-disciplinary care" that streamlines the process in an effort to reduce patient anxiety. "With breast health, it's imperative that we are sensitive to patients' needs, both physically and emotionally," he says, "and that involves streamlining processes to create a more efficient center that helps patients move quickly through their care. Our team of physicians, nurses, and counselors at Alpharetta works well together to coordinate quality, personal care for our patients." Certified breast imaging and oncology nurse navigators play a big role in helping breast care patients understand and gain quick access to the next step after an abnormal finding. For most women, the fear of the unknown is one of the biggest contributors to their anxiety. Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta's certified nurse navigators help educate patients about what to expect, as well as help alleviate additional anxiety by assisting patients with appointment scheduling and pre-registration, physician's orders, insurance and financial arrangements. Same-dayand next-day appointments are available for screening mammography and diagnostic breast imaging. Advanced medical technology at Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta makes it possible for many breast cancers to be detected and treated early. In addition to traditional mammograms, Northside was the first to introduce 3D mammography, which provides enhanced imaging around the breast. The combination of 3D and multiple images makes it easier for radiologists to identify cancer areas that may not be visible through other screenings. Advanced diagnostic and imaging services also include breast ultrasound, MRI and minimally invasive breast biopsy procedures. As a member of the National Cancer Institute's Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP), Northside Hospital is able to provide patients access to state-of-the-art cancer clinical trials, many of which address breast cancer research. Patients of Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta who are approved for these latest treatments and medications can trust they are receiving the most comprehensive, extensive care currently available anywhere. Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta offers genetic counseling and testing for women who may be at a higher risk of breast cancer based on a family history. It is important for women to understand the risk factors and most common warning symptoms of breast cancer. Northside Hospital Breast Care Program at Alpharetta offers a variety of educational and support services to help women understand the most effective steps to prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment. When caught early, breast cancer is one of the most successfully treatable and curable forms of cancer. Northside Hospital Breast Care Program3400 Old Milton ParkwaySuite 145, Building CAlpharettaNorthside.com To schedule your breast imaging appointment, call: 404-851-6577 For more information about breast care services, contact the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute at: 404-531-4444
Milan Eye Center Providing state-of-the-art technology and personal care to patients locally By Michelle Martin For the many residents in Cherokee County suffering from cataract and other eye conditions, the new Milan Eye Center in Canton offers the convenience of state-of-the-art technology and experienced doctors close to home. The new Canton office, located off of Brown Industrial Parkway near the R.T. Jones Memorial Library, joins Milan Eye Center's locations in Cumming and Johns Creek. "More and more in the past several years, we were treating patients from Canton and surrounding communities at our Cumming office," says Milan Patel, M.D., an ophthalmologist who specializes in laser cataract, refractive and corneal surgery at Milan Eye Center. "Our new Canton location allows us to bring specialty care locally to meet the needs of the growing Cherokee community so that patients don't have to drive 30 minutes or more. Each of our locations is designed with Milan Eye Center's state-of-the-art technology and personalized care so that patients all across metro Atlanta have convenient access to specialty eye care." In addition to the Canton, Cumming and Johns Creek locations, Milan Eye Center also opened a new office in Buford in September. Milan Eye Center is led by Dr. Milan Patel; Vishal Patel, O.D., who specializes in glaucoma, diabetic eye conditions and Lasik consultations; Kiran Sajja, M.D., oculoplastics surgeon; and Anjum Cheema, M.D., glaucoma and cataract surgeon. Some of the more common conditions treated at Milan Eye Center include cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye. According to Dr. Milan Patel, Milan Eye Center is regarded by patients and eye surgeons as a leader in cataract care. "Cataract surgery by far and away is our specialty. The doctors at Milan Eye Center have performed more than 10,000 cataract surgeries combined," he says. Cataracts affect approximately 60 percent of people age 60 and older, yet, Dr. Patel says, most people don't understand what a cataract is. "The common misconception is that a cataract is a growth on the eye that affects vision, but actually it is a condition, commonly caused by aging, that clouds the lens of the eye and produces a yellow-brown discoloration that creates a halo effect around objects." Patients with cataracts often experience difficulty in driving, reading, recognizing faces, distinguishing color contrasts, and coping with glare from bright lights. Cataracts can slowly lead to slowly progressive vision loss if left untreated. As a leader in cataract care, Milan Eye Center stays current on the latest advancements in treatment and procedure. Dr. Patel notes that Milan Eye Center was the first practice in the entire country to use the Femto blade-free technology designed by Zeimer Ophthalmic Systems for cataract surgery. The Femto LDV Z6 laser offers a customized alternative with more accuracy in terms of depth of incisions and the architectural design of each incision versus traditional cataract surgery. The laser technology can be programmed to perform precise custom incisions, which are planned by surgeons based off on topographic scans of individual patients. "Milan Eye Center is proud to be the first to bring this groundbreaking technology to our patients. Surgeons from across the nation come to Milan Eye Center to learn how to use the Femto LDV Z6 laser," he says. "This new technology allows us to offer patients a range of procedure options designed to try and maximize safety and meet their individual needs. We want Milan Eye Center to be the best eye care center in the state, and that includes offering state-of-the-art technologies like laser cataract surgery to better serve our patients." Milan Eye Center also offers "live streaming" and digital recording of cataract surgeries so that family members can watch patients' surgery as it happens and patients can watch and share the recording afterward. "This service is reassuring to patients and their family because it demonstrates our confidence in our expertise and safety. It takes our quality of care to the next level for all to see firsthand," says Dr. Patel. Prior to surgery or other recommended treatment, Milan Eye Center offers a variety of tools and resources to give patients a better understanding of cataracts and other eye conditions. Many diagnostic procedures using an optical camera can be viewed by patients on a second monitor, so that doctors can point out and explain what they find and how the problem can best be treated. Diagnostic images are uploaded to a central file-sharing program so that doctors can access them from any location. Also, Milan Eye Center designed the MyLaserCataractProcedure.com website as an informative resource for cataract patients. The website gives an overview of cataracts and treatment options, as well as videos explaining what to expect before, during and after laser cataract surgery. Milan Eye Center also developed the new Easy Drops app, available (on Apple and coming soon to Android devices) for free to patients. As Dr. Patel explains, the Easy Drops app makes it easier for patients to manage their course of drop therapy. "Some procedures call for several different kinds of drops during different times of the day; it can be confusing trying to keep track of them all," he says. "We tried to look at it from our patients' perspective and design an app that would make it easier for them." Patients simply enter their procedure date for an outline of their daily prescribed eye-drop regimen. The app makes it possible for patients and doctors alike to monitor compliance to ensure patients' eye health before and after treatment. It also includes informative videos, office information and an option to email the doctors. Dr. Patel says eye doctors anywhere can subscribe to the Easy Drops app service and customize it to their practice and patients. Milan Eye Center is affiliated with and provides on-call emergency care at Northside Hospital in Canton and Forsyth, as well as Emory Johns Creek Hospital. "Being affiliated with such reputable hospital networks makes it easy for us to do what we do. We are glad that we can offer on-call support and local convenience to their patients, as well as our own. The entire staff at Milan Eye Center works together to provide personal care with a positive attitude for a seamless patient experience, from beginning to end. We hope that our personal approach to patient care, combined with our highly trained doctors and state-of-the-art technology, leaves patients of Milan Eye Center feeling they have received the best care of any doctors in any specialty anywhere." Cataract Surgery Bladeless Cataract Surgery Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Corneal Transplant Surgery Glaucoma Laser Treatment Pterygium Excision Surgery LASIK "Refractive" Eye Surgery Narrow Angle Glaucoma IOL Self-Evaluation Test Easy Drops App Milan Eye Center201 Kimberly Way, Canton678-381-2020MilanEyeCenter.com8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday-FridaySame-Day AppointmentsMost Insurances Accepted
Wine Women & Shoes Charity event combines fashion and fun for gynecological cancer research By Michelle Martin Approximately 500 women came together for an afternoon of fashion and fun at the 2014 Wine Women & Shoes Atlanta, held September 14 at the InterContinental HotelBuckhead Atlanta. The event, presented by Northside Hospital Cancer Institute and Diamond Stiletto sponsor Northside Radiology, helps promote awareness of gynecological cancers and support GYN cancer research at Northside Hospital. Each year, more than 90,000 women are diagnosed with gynecological cancer in the United States. Wine Women & Shoes Atlanta raised more than $ 50,000 for GYN cancer research, through proceeds from the "Key to the Closet" raffle featuring items valued at more than $16,000; live and silent auctions; live donations; and donations from a portion of sales at the exhibitors' marketplace. Money for cancer research was also raised through votes cast for the event's favorite "Shoe Guys," who gave attendees an up-close look at must-have items "served" on silver platters. Attendees of Wine Women & Shoes enjoyed wine tastings from some of the country's top winemakers as they shopped the latest trends in women's shoes, clothing, accessories, jewelry, beauty and skin care. Women were encouraged to embrace the theme of the event by wearing their most sensational shoes. Prizes were given for "Fabulous Flat," "Sassy Sandal," "Wonderful Wedge," "Sexy Stiletto," and "Best in Shoe," with the "Best in Shoe" winner showcasing her standout shoes on the runway before the main fashion show. The fashion show featured the hottest styles in women's (and men's) clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories, followed by "Couture for a Cure," organized by fashion designer Isaac Spry and Catwalk Productions CEO Randi Layne. The "Couture for a Cure" featured unique fashions made exclusively for Wine Women & Shoes by Atlanta designers who have a personal connection to cancer prevention. Each of the designs was auctioned off for the event, with proceeds going to Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Cynthia Good, founder/CEO of Little PINK Book and a former anchor with Atlanta Fox5 TV, served as mistress of ceremonies for the event. Dr. Jacob Spanier, a licensed OB/GYN for 59 years, was honored for his commitment to the care and treatment of women. A founding member of Northside Hospital's medical staff, Dr. Spanier retired from Northside Hospital in June after delivering his last baby on May 23. "Like Northside Hospital, my goal as a physician always was to provide quality of care," he said. "I have a great affection for Northside Hospital. Your presence here today helps a lot (in Northside Hospital Cancer Institute's research)." Gay Lenner was invited to share her personal story as Wine Women & Shoes' featured survivor. Lenner recalled being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011, at age 55, after experiencing many of the classic symptoms: feeling tired, bloated and full after eating only a few bites. "I have had five surgeries and four hospitalizations throughout my battle with ovarian cancer," she said. "Tomorrow, I will go for chemotherapy. It is part of my new normal. But, I am not just a statistic. I am not just a patient. I am a person. Your presence here at Wine Women & Shoes and support of Northside Hospital Cancer Institute gives ovarian cancer survivors like me hope to get through the day and hope for a cure." Photos courtesy of Phil Henderson
Riverfest 2014 Canton's popular arts and crafts festival celebrates 30 years. By Michelle Martin This year marks the 30th anniversary of Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival and the 80th anniversary of the Service League of Cherokee County (SLCC), which produces the annual event. SLCC, the oldest service league in the area, started Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival in 1985 in an effort to raise funds to continue to serve the community. "The goal 30 years ago was to find additional avenues for fundraising for SLCC. The needs in our community were growing and we were searching to find additional ways to meet the needs of the children and their families," says Pat Gold, who was instrumental in planning and launching the first Riverfest with the help of several other SLCC members. "I had been attending craft fairs with a friend for a few years and saw an opportunity to start something new in Cherokee County that could entertain and assist as well." Gold says she and the other Riverfest committee members Judy Bishop, Debra Goodwin and Rebecca Johnston worked hard for two years to lay the groundwork for the future of Riverfest. "I couldn't possibly have envisioned Riverfest having the financial impact it has had in our community over the years...It is an amazing success, and I am very proud to have been there at the beginning of it all." According to Stephanie Bagwell, who serves as the chairperson for Riverfest 2014, all of the proceeds from Riverfest will continue to help provide medical care, dental care, eyeglasses, food, clothing, scholarships and other necessities for children in need throughout Cherokee County. "It is a testament to our community's faith in and support of SLCC that we are able to celebrate 80 years of service and 30 years of Riverfest," she says. "So often, charitable organizations are unable to continue their missions due to lack of community support. SLCC has not only been able to continue its mission but also grow it as well. Celebrating these two milestones together is an honor for those of us in active membership and a tribute to all who served before us." This year's Riverfest is scheduled for September 27-28 at Boling Park in Canton. The festival will showcase handcrafted, unique items and gourmet culinary treats from more than 150 local artisans, along with family-friendly entertainment, activities for children of all ages, a football tailgating area, food vendors, and much more. As always, copies of the SLCC cookbook and SLCC tote bags also will be for sale. "There is a delicate balance between staying innovative while not losing the 'feel' of Riverfest," Bagwell says. "Each year, we strive to make the event better for everyone, from league members to patrons, to vendors. Patrons know that they will find their favorites year after year and be introduced to new and different vendors as well." Some of the features new to Riverfest this year will include a dunk tank with local "celebrities," a zipline, and live goldfish in the children's area. The concessions area will include picnic tables sponsored and hand-decorated by local businesses; patrons can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win their favorite table. In addition, this year's festival will include a special pictorial display highlighting 30 years of Riverfest and the SLCC's 80 years as a service organization; a T-shirt display of the specially designed Riverfest T-shirts throughout the years; and 30th anniversary commemorative cups for sale. The commemorative cups feature the Riverfest 2014 logo that incorporates artwork from the first Riverfest logo in 1985. Becky Thrash, of Acworth, and her daughter, Tiffany Quisenberry, of Canton, have attended Riverfest every year rain or shine since it debuted in 1985. They walk the same path and visit every vendor booth every year. "We always have a lot of fun, even if we don't buy anything," Thrash says, adding that Tiffany was only a year old at the first Riverfest. This year, the faithful mother-daughter Riverfest patrons will introduce a third generation to the festival. "We are excited to continue the Riverfest tradition with Tiffany's first child, Rylee, who will be only a month old," Thrash says. "Tiffany remembers buying a ruffled umbrella with her name on it at Riverfest one year, so we hope to find one for Rylee there this year to continue that tradition as well." Bagwell loves to see such Riverfest tradition in local families. "It is a rare thing to see a community come together year after year to support an organization," she says. "The impact of Riverfest and SLCC's work is multi-generational, and I love that my kids are growing up seeing the work of the SLCC. I am certain the SLCC's work, including Riverfest, still will be seen in this community when they are adults!" September 27, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.September 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Boling Park, Canton$5 Admission (adults and children 11+)Dogs are not allowed per city ordinanceServiceLeague.net
Hollywood of the South Movie and TV filming in Georgia is bigger than ever. By Michelle Martin If it seems you're seeing familiar scenes practically every time you turn on the TV or go to the movie theatre, you probably are. Metro Atlanta and other communities in Georgia have become a hotspot for television and film producers. During Fiscal Year 2014 alone, 158 feature film and television productions were shot on location or on set in Georgia generating an estimated economic impact of $5.1 billion, according to a recent press announcement by Governor Nathan Deal. TV productions like "The Walking Dead," filmed in Senoia and other Georgia communities, and "The Vampire Diaries," filmed in Covington, and blockbuster movies like "The Hunger Games" series, "Anchorman 2" and "Ride Along," all shot in Atlanta, showcase Georgia landmarks and landscapes before a worldwide audience. In addition, you may recognize local businesses, buildings and backgrounds featured in upcoming releases like "Dumb and Dumber To," "The Fast and the Furious 7," and the new TV series "Constantine." A number of reality TV shows and HGTV series also film in metro Atlanta and throughout the state. To assist producers in scouting locations, the Georgia Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Office, a division of the Georgia Office of Economic Development, has partnered with local communities to create Camera Ready programs. Craig Dominey, Camera Ready program manager, says the Camera Ready Communities program was established in 2010 to train and certify skilled county liaisons who will provide one-on-one assistance in every aspect of production from location scouting and film permits to traffic control, catering and lodging. "This program gives Georgia counties the tools to promote their shooting locations and other local production assets, and effectively work with production companies to create a positive local experience for the film or TV project." To date, 140 counties in Georgia are Camera Ready-certified. Katie Bishop, communications/project manager for the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, which oversees Cherokee County's Camera Ready program, says a short film was shot in downtown Canton last year, along with a movie, commercial, and reality TV show filmed this year in Cherokee. "Our office is constantly working to promote Cherokee and to build lasting relationships with film scouts. When a site in Cherokee is chosen for 'the big screen' or TV, it gives us an opportunity to showcase our wonderful community on a national stage and to reach a much larger audience," Katie says. "When crews come to our community for filming, they hire local contractors, eat at our restaurants, stay within our hotels, make purchases locally, etc. The more that is filmed in Cherokee, the more recognition we get among the 'Y'allywood' community, thus exponentially growing the economic impact." The increase in movie and TV filming in Georgia, especially in recent years, is increasing interest in Georgia among fans as well. The instant and enormous popularity of "The Walking Dead," for example, brought curious and devoted fans to the state for the chance at an up-close, behind-the-scenes experience. Film-based tourism isn't new, though. Savannah noticed a similar influx of tourists nearly 20 years ago during the filming of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Other movies filmed in Georgia, including "Driving Miss Daisy," "Fried Green Tomatoes," and "The Blind Side," along with numerous TV shows have attracted fans for an insider's look. Tourism and local officials have developed a series of planned tours and points of interest that take fans to the set or, at least to the setting of their favorite Georgia-based movies and TV shows. ComeTourGeorgia.com features behind-the-scenes trivia and a complete list of film tour itineraries that will give movie and TV fans a glimpse of Hollywood in Georgia's own backyard, including: 'Anchorman 2' TourGeorgia stands in for Manhattan in this sequel starring Will Ferrell, with scenes in and around Peachtree Center, Atlanta Motor Speedway, St. Simons Island, and more. Classic South TourSights and sounds that feature Southern culture and attractions, filmed in Atlanta, Covington, Crawfordville, Decatur, Juliette, Madison, Monticello, Rome, Savannah and Stone Mountain. Productions include "Driving Miss Daisy," "Forrest Gump," "Fried Green Tomatoes," "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," "My Cousin Vinny," "Revolution," and "Sweet Home Alabama." Good Ol' Boys TourA self-guided tour through Athens, Clayton, Jackson, Jonesboro, Kennesaw, Oxford and Woodstock, where such hits as "Deliverance," "Road Trip," and Smokey and the Bandit" were filmed. Sports TourSome of the most popular sports movies, including "Breaking Away," "The Blind Side," and "42" were filmed in Athens, Atlanta, Dawsonville, Decatur, Griffin, Jekyll Island, Johns Creek and Macon. 'The Hunger Games' TourScenes from "Catching Fire" and "Mockinjay" were filmed at the Swan House, Beach at International Park, Atlanta Maarriott Marquis, and other landmarks in Atlanta and Jonesboro. Undead TourThe zombies and vampires invasion has come to Georgia! This self-guided tour follows "The Walking Dead," "The Vampire Diaries," "The Crazies," "Zombieland," and "The Signal" through parts of Atlanta, Covington, Perry, Senoia and Valdosta. Film tourists also can find props and memorabilia from their favorite movies and TV shows filmed in Georgia at museums and attractions open year-round. New Releases Filmed in Georgia"Let's Be Cops," August 13"Last of Robin Hood," August 29"Addicted," September 5"The Good Lie," October 3"Kill the Messenger," October 10"The Homesman," November 7"Dumb and Dumber To," November 14"The Hunger Games: Mockinjay," November 21 Currently Filming in Georgia"Archer," on FX"Dish Nation," on Fox"Finding Carter," on MTV"Mineral""999" (Triple Nine)"Big Foot""Chrisley Knows Best" S2, on USA"Ride Along 2""Satisfaction," on USA"The Walking Dead" S5, on AMC"Sorority Sisters," on VH1"Family Feud""Bolden""Constantine," on NBC"Red Band Society," on Fox"Resurrection," on ABC"Vacation""Complications," on USA"The 5th Wave""The Vampire Diaries" S6, on CW"The Originals" S2, on CW"Powers," on Sony Playstation Casting in GeorgiaWith so many different movies and TV shows being filmed in Georgia, local and national casting agencies are always looking for local talent for certain roles and extras. ComeTourGeorgia.com includes information on productions currently casting in metro Atlanta and around Georgia. Sign up for the Georgia Newsreel Blog to get the inside scoop on what's filming where and when.
Hollywood of the South Movie and TV filming in Georgia is bigger than ever. By Michelle Martin If it seems you're seeing familiar scenes practically every time you turn on the TV or go to the movie theatre, you probably are. Metro Atlanta and other communities in Georgia have become a hotspot for television and film producers. During Fiscal Year 2014 alone, 158 feature film and television productions were shot on location or on set in Georgia generating an estimated economic impact of $5.1 billion, according to a recent press announcement by Governor Nathan Deal. TV productions like "The Walking Dead," filmed in Senoia and other Georgia communities, and "The Vampire Diaries," filmed in Covington, and blockbuster movies like "The Hunger Games" series, "Anchorman 2" and "Ride Along," all shot in Atlanta, showcase Georgia landmarks and landscapes before a worldwide audience. In addition, you may recognize local businesses, buildings and backgrounds featured in upcoming releases like "Dumb and Dumber To," "The Fast and the Furious 7," and the new TV series "Constantine." A number of reality TV shows and HGTV series also film in metro Atlanta and throughout the state. To assist producers in scouting locations, the Georgia Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Office, a division of the Georgia Office of Economic Development, has partnered with local communities to create Camera Ready programs. Craig Dominey, Camera Ready program manager, says the Camera Ready Communities program was established in 2010 to train and certify skilled county liaisons who will provide one-on-one assistance in every aspect of production from location scouting and film permits to traffic control, catering and lodging. "This program gives Georgia counties the tools to promote their shooting locations and other local production assets, and effectively work with production companies to create a positive local experience for the film or TV project." To date, 140 counties in Georgia are Camera Ready-certified. Progress Partners of North Fulton Atlanta is the Camera Ready liaison for the six cities of North Fulton. Bethany Usry, program manager for Progress Partners, says there have been 33 requests this year from scouting directors and producers. Productions filmed in the North Fulton area include "Chrisley Knows Best," on the USA Network, and "The Sunday Horse," a film that was shot in Milton. "The passage of the Entertainment Investment Act in 2008 has had far-reaching, positive effects on our state and the North Fulton region's economy," Usry says. "The direct jobs and revenue created by the film and TV industry in North Fulton are certainly impressive, but so are the countless number of jobs and revenue that are created in other industries, including food service, transportation, security, etc., as a result." The increase in movie and TV filming in Georgia, especially in recent years, is increasing interest in Georgia among fans as well. The instant and enormous popularity of "The Walking Dead," for example, brought curious and devoted fans to the state for the chance at an up-close, behind-the-scenes experience. Film-based tourism isn't new, though. Savannah noticed a similar influx of tourists nearly 20 years ago during the filming of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Other movies filmed in Georgia, including "Driving Miss Daisy," "Fried Green Tomatoes," and "The Blind Side," along with numerous TV shows have attracted fans for an insider's look. Tourism and local officials have developed a series of planned tours and points of interest that take fans to the set or, at least to the setting of their favorite Georgia-based movies and TV shows. ComeTourGeorgia.com features behind-the-scenes trivia and a complete list of film tour itineraries that will give movie and TV fans a glimpse of Hollywood in Georgia's own backyard, including: 'Anchorman 2' TourGeorgia stands in for Manhattan in this sequel starring Will Ferrell, with scenes in and around Peachtree Center, Atlanta Motor Speedway, St. Simons Island, and more. Classic South TourSights and sounds that feature Southern culture and attractions, filmed in Atlanta, Covington, Crawfordville, Decatur, Juliette, Madison, Monticello, Rome, Savannah and Stone Mountain. Productions include "Driving Miss Daisy," "Forrest Gump," "Fried Green Tomatoes," "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," "My Cousin Vinny," "Revolution," and "Sweet Home Alabama." Good Ol' Boys TourA self-guided tour through Athens, Clayton, Jackson, Jonesboro, Kennesaw, Oxford and Woodstock, where such hits as "Deliverance," "Road Trip," and Smokey and the Bandit" were filmed. Sports TourSome of the most popular sports movies, including "Breaking Away," "The Blind Side," and "42" were filmed in Athens, Atlanta, Dawsonville, Decatur, Griffin, Jekyll Island, Johns Creek and Macon. 'The Hunger Games' TourScenes from "Catching Fire" and "Mockinjay" were filmed at the Swan House, Beach at International Park, Atlanta Maarriott Marquis, and other landmarks in Atlanta and Jonesboro. Undead TourThe zombies and vampires invasion has come to Georgia! This self-guided tour follows "The Walking Dead," "The Vampire Diaries," "The Crazies," "Zombieland," and "The Signal" through parts of Atlanta, Covington, Perry, Senoia and Valdosta. Film tourists also can find props and memorabilia from their favorite movies and TV shows filmed in Georgia at museums and attractions open year-round. New Releases Filmed in Georgia"Let's Be Cops," August 13"Last of Robin Hood," August 29"Addicted," September 5"The Good Lie," October 3"Kill the Messenger," October 10"The Homesman," November 7"Dumb and Dumber To," November 14"The Hunger Games: Mockinjay," November 21 Currently Filming in Georgia"Archer," on FX"Dish Nation," on Fox"Finding Carter," on MTV"Mineral""999" (Triple Nine)"Big Foot""Chrisley Knows Best" S2, on USA"Ride Along 2""Satisfaction," on USA"The Walking Dead" S5, on AMC"Sorority Sisters," on VH1"Family Feud""Bolden""Constantine," on NBC"Red Band Society," on Fox"Resurrection," on ABC"Vacation""Complications," on USA"The 5th Wave""The Vampire Diaries" S6, on CW"The Originals" S2, on CW"Powers," on Sony Playstation Casting in GeorgiaWith so many different movies and TV shows being filmed in Georgia, local and national casting agencies are always looking for local talent for certain roles and extras. ComeTourGeorgia.com includes information on productions currently casting in metro Atlanta and around Georgia. Sign up for the Georgia Newsreel Blog to get the inside scoop on what's filming where and when.
CITY ON A HILL Serving the Community for Christ By Michelle Martin Since the doors opened in August of 2006, CITY ON A HILL (COAH) United Methodist Church in Woodstock has worked to make a difference in the community. "We hope COAH is known for helping people in Christ's name," says Pastor Chris Bryant. "Jesus said, 'Whatever you did for the least of these, so you did for me.' By helping others, we serve Christ." COAH offers a variety of outreach programs and mission opportunities throughout the year. Many of the church's ministries have become mainstays in the community that people turn to in times of need, or simply for enjoying fun activities in a welcoming, nothing-expected-in-return environment. "As a church, our goal is sharing God's love. It's about helping people see and then become deeply committed followers of Jesus," says Pastor Bryant. "It's not ever about money or numbers, but we still want to celebrate what God is doing and we have to say it somehow." For example, each December COAH encourages church families to give the same amount to a specific mission project that they would spend on Christmas for their individual families. Local projects have included purchasing computers for approximately 15 students in need at Johnston Elementary School and establishing a benevolence fund to help out-of-work Cherokee County families. Sometimes the mission is international, like buying a farm-full of livestock to support several third-world villages through Heifer International, or the equipping of the Haiti Children Project children's orphanage, which now can offer a better life to hundreds of kids. This past year, COAH's "Christmas Miracle Offering" challenged church families to raise $20,000 to build a church facility in La Paz Central, Nicaragua, an area that COAH has supported the past three years. "Our goal is to establish a 'daughter church' there for the gospel to bring healing and help to a growing population, beyond just the Vacation Bible School, food ministry and eye clinic led by a COAH missions team each year," Pastor Bryant explains. "We encourage our church families every year to allow the Holy Spirit to use them to give those in need their own Christmas miracle the miracle of God with us!" COAH not only reached its $20,000 goal this past Christmas but also raised an additional $3,000 (through a separate donation) to purchase the land for the future church. According to Bryant, the combined $23,000 is the single largest Christmas offering in COAH's history. "We are very excited to see what God does through our missions team serving there later this month." COAH's annual Easter Egg Hunt attracted more than 1,100 people this past April its largest turnout ever despite being moved indoors at the last minute due to rain. In just an hour-and-a-half, church members transformed the sanctuary and classrooms into an indoor playground, with a huge inflatable bounce house, activity stations, and 15,000 plastic Easter eggs filled with candy, tokens for prizes and notes of encouragement. "It was a huge leap of faith to move the Easter Egg Hunt inside," says Pastor Bryant. "It was truly impressive to see the church come together to prepare for such a large event indoors and then immediately upon the event's conclusion, work so rapidly to ensure we were ready for our first of four Easter worship experiences that afternoon." Single Moms Gas Giveaway is an opportunity for COAH to minister to single moms in the area by offering "full service," including a free tank of gas, free fluids and tire pressure check, window wash, etc., along with a bottle of water, flower, and a Mother's Day card handmade by the children's ministry. Usually held the Saturday before Mother's Day, COAH's Single Moms Gas Giveaway averaged 11 gallons of gas per vehicle (the highest per-vehicle average in the giveaway's history) to nearly 190 single moms this year. COAH works with Mobilized Fuels to bring the fueling truck to the church for the gas giveaway. "We try to support single mothers regularly, not just during the Gas Giveaway," said Pastor Bryant, noting among other things that there is special parking in front of the church reserved especially for single mothers. "We have a special place in our hearts for the struggles that single moms face." Souper Bowl of Caring is a nationally known food drive effort, supported locally, during the weekend of the Super Bowl. Each year, COAH's student ministry takes charge of collecting dry goods for local families in need. This year, the weight of the donated items was an amazing 800 pounds more than last year, for a total of 2,200 pounds. "Literally, we collected a ton of food!" says Pastor Bryant. "The Souper Bowl of Caring was also the first big church engagement of our new Boy Scout Troop 514, which played a significant role in our reaching and surpassing our goal." Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a great opportunity for COAH to reach children in the community. This year, 126 kids attended VBS throughout the week, with more than 50 percent being new to the church and nearly one in every four kids making a decision for Christ. "We're excited to reach so many children through VBS," says Pastor Bryant, who personally called the parents of children who were new to COAH and who made a decision for Christ during VBS. COAH recognizes how important VBS is in reaching children for Christ, so each year it is offered as a free community event, even though the materials and decorations cost the church more than $3,500. "We look at VBS as a mission. In addition to offering it to the community for free, we donate our materials to other churches to help them make VBS possible for the children in their communities." COAH also offers Bible studies and small group programming for adults and children of all ages throughout the year. This month, COAH is launching a new GROW! children's program and is working to especially empower parents of the kids who participate. "This is a great opportunity to engage adults and help them grow in their spiritual maturity so that they can specifically help guide their children's spiritual development," says Pastor Bryant. CITY ON A HILL United Methodist Church offers family-friendly, contemporary worship on Saturday evening and twice on Sunday morning. CITY ON A HILL7745 Main St., Woodstock678-445-3480www.coahumc.org Worship5:14 pm, Saturday9:35 & 11:15 am, Sunday Contemporary, Casual WorshipAdult Men's, Women's & Co-Ed Bible Study"City Kids" (Infants-Age 5)"Praise Street" (Grades K-3)"Club 456" (Grades 4-6)"CrossWalk" (Grades 7-12)Local, National & International MissionsSermons Available Online and iTunes
DeMercy Dental Focused, Personal Dental Care for Families By Michelle Martin DeMercy Dental has provided quality, personal dental care to North Fulton families for nearly 30 years. Located at 10930 Crabapple Road, Suite 140, in Roswell, DeMercy Dental is a family-owned and operated practice, led by Jeff DeMercy, D.D.S.; Tammy DeMercy, office manager; and their daughter, Amanda Kossick, D.M.D. Drs. DeMercy and Kossick, along with the entire DeMercy Dental team, take a family approach to patient care. "We care about our patients and believe it's important to spend time with them, educating them and answering any questions about their dental care," says Dr. Kossick. "We try to connect with our patients on a personal level and treat them like family. Many of our patients have been with us for years, through multiple generations, so they have become a part of the DeMercy Dental family." DeMercy Dental provides family dental services, including routine checkups and cleanings; restorative care; periodontal health; and cosmetic dentistry. The addition of Dr. Kossick last year has allowed DeMercy Dental to accommodate more patients, offer more flexible scheduling, and provide the same level of personal, quality care that patients value. "Patients often tell me that I'm just like my dad which means a lot to me," Dr. Kossick says. "They've heard so much about me from him over the years that they feel an instant connection to me. They're very accepting of me, and at the same time it's reassuring to them to know that they can expect the same level of dental care from me." Since joining the practice last year, Dr. Kossick has completed specialized training in advanced dental technology to offer patients even more options for care and convenience. The new LANAP PerioLase, for example, uses a laser device to treat periodontal disease. Patients' own stem cells can regenerate bone development through the laser technology, Dr. Kossick explains essentially eliminating the need for tissue grafts and other implant sources. "It's a much easier procedure for patients with periodontal disease," she says. "It doesn't require any sutures, so the discomfort is minimal. Most patients say it's similar to what they experience from a routine deep cleaning. Plus, they appreciate the convenience of having the procedure performed here, where they know us and trust us, rather than going to an outside periodontal provider." PerioLase is also shown to be effective at treating cold sores. The energy from the laser repairs the cells in the affected area so that the blister does not break the lip's surface. While the laser may cause a small scab (which heals within a couple of days, as compared to a week's healing time for most cold sores), it also prevents cold sores from developing again in the treated area. Other features at DeMercy Dental include digital X-rays, an intra-oral camera for more accurately identifying decay and other issues, same-day Cerec crown restoration, and Kor teeth whitening. Dr. Kossick says Kor offers more long-term whitening over Zoom, and can be done at home conveniently with a simple kit using the Kor whitening gel and customized trays that fit comfortably over patients' teeth. "We recommend treatments and products only if we feel they're appropriate for certain patients," she says. Hygienists also offer "focused care" that is specialized to patients' individual needs, including mouthwash and gums for dry mouth, high-fluoride toothpaste, night bite-guards, and more. "Our hygienists are very thorough and share our philosophy for personal, preventative dental care." Dr. Kossick also has put a special emphasis on pediatric care since joining DeMercy Dental last year. "I have always enjoyed being around children," she says. "They are fun to be around and a nice break in the day." Dr. Kossick encourages parents to come back during their children's treatment to help young patients and their parents feel more comfortable. "The most important thing in treating children is to listen to them and try to relate to them. Especially if they seem anxious, I try to get to know my young patients personally and talk to them about school, their friends and other interests. I want them to know that I care about them, as if they were my own children." Dr. Kossick and Dr. DeMercy extend their personal touch beyond clinical hours. "All of my patients know that they can call me after hours if they have problems or questions," says Dr. Kossick. She also makes it a practice to check on adult and pediatric patients who have undergone more extensive treatments that require special follow-up care. "We are always here for our patients. We don't just stop caring at the end of each workday. For me especially, it's hard not to take my patients' feelings and health to heart." DeMercy Dental offers flexible appointment scheduling by phone and email. Patients can also opt in to email and text reminders. The practice accepts most insurances and offers CareCredit financing and other payment options. New patients are always welcome. The DeMercy Dental team is active in the local community supporting various charities, civic organizations and schools, and participating in a variety of events year-round throughout the North Fulton area and metro Atlanta. As Dr. Kossick says, "We feel it is important to give back to the community that has supported DeMercy Dental for almost 30 years." DeMercy Dental10930 Crabapple Rd., Suite 140Roswell, GA 30075770-641-8010 Family Dental ServicesRoutine Checkups & CleaningsDigital X-RaysExtractionsFillings/BondingCrowns & BridgesRoot CanalsVeneers & Dental ImplantsDenturesPeriodontal HealthInvisalignTeeth WhiteningOn-Call Emergency ServiceOnline & Email Appointment SchedulingMost Insurances AcceptedFlexible Payment OptionsCareCredit Financing DeMercyDental.comFacebook.com/DeMercyDental 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday
Artist Profile: Linda Teachey Exploring New Possibilities By Heike Hellmann-Brown All facets of nature form the subject matter of artist Linda Teacheys work. Growing up in heavily wooded North Carolina, Teachey always enjoyed spending time outdoors. At age 10 it was discovered that she was near-sighted, and the prescription of eyeglasses changed her entire world. Up until then life was blurry for me, Teachey recalls. All of a sudden, everything looked crisp. Whether tree barks, leaves, moss, or frogs, birds, snakes and turtles I began noticing all their little details and patterns, and I was mesmerized. Teachey carried this interest over into adulthood, studying forestry and landscape horticulture and working in that field for several years until moving to Canton with her husband and two kids. We picked Orange Shoals, because of its abundant green space. I wanted to make sure that my kids have access to what I had when growing up, she says. While this self-proclaimed nature freak had been exposed to art in school, Teachey never saw it as a career. When vacationing in Little St. Simons Island a few years ago, she happened to meet an art professor from Kennesaw State University. I told him about my fascination with nature. He encouraged me to go back to school and take classes, Teachey remembers. She enrolled in the KSU art program in 2013, studying for a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Now that my kids are grown, I am able to focus on my own dreams, although it can be intimidating to keep up with fellow students that are half my age. Teacheys artwork is very detail-oriented. Woods are not a big blob of green, she jokes. Look at an oak tree, or a dogwood they are alive. Plants achieve all that humans do, but they stay in place. Nothing is arbitrary. I look at patterns, shapes, colors and wonder about the reason behind them. Why are leaves arranged or shaped a certain way? Most people dont even see this detail or cherish the beauty in nature. Teacheys passion for our ecosystem led to her involvement with the Upper Etowah River Alliance. She is a board member and serves as an education volunteer, teaching students in the entire Etowah watershed how special and unique the Etowah River is. The Etowah is a very old river that has more biodiversity and fish species than the Columbia River and Colorado River combined, she explains. With 76 native fish species, the Etowah watershed is biologically one of the richest river systems in the world and it is right in our backyards! Teachey used her artistic skills to design the alliances mascot, Carter the Darter, and to create coloring sheets for her education projects in schools and libraries. She also raises awareness for water quality through organized canoe trips, is involved with the Adopt-a-Stream program, and occasionally sells native plants at Cantons Farmers Market. Facebook.com/UniqueByNatureArt
Book Review: The Invention of Wings A Story of Wanting to be Heard By Catherine Groves The Invention of Wings, Sue Monk Kidds latest masterpiece, introduces Hetty Handful, the slave of Sarah Grimk, and Sarah Grimk herself. Set in early 19th century Charleston, S.C., the Grimk household is a prison to young Handful. Her dreams go far beyond the walls, and owner, which hold her captive, and her spirit drives those dreams to knowing shes meant to be more than a slave. Young Sarah, possessing an intellect quite rare and a yearning that runs deep, feels she must feed this fire that burns. The limitations imposed on women in her era make her frustrations seem futile, knowing had she been born a boy her mind would have been praised, not scorned. On Sarahs 11th birthday in 1803, Handful is given to her as a gift from her mother. Although Handful is given to be her housemaid, Sarah cant help but feel that an injustice has occurred. Thus begins a 35-year relationship between two girls determined to change a fate imposed on them. Although their relationship grows in complexity in the years to come, their bond formed as children will remain. Sarahs guilt and Handfuls rebellion cause estrangement, but they can never cast off the vein of love that runs between them, formed by a world of injustice. As Handful grows into womanhood, she faces devastating loss and heartache, but also finds herself as a result. Peace, which has eluded her throughout her life, begins to make its presence known in her heart. Sarahs own searching, hoping to find a way to exert her mind in a world created for men, takes her out of Charleston and into the early years of the womens rights movement. Inspired by the real historic figure Sarah Grimk, Kidd delivers a story combining truth and fiction. She weaves intricately despair and courage, heartache and peace. And, in her changing of characters from one chapter to the next, Kidd makes it possible for readers to envision and understand their worlds. The story is both poignant and endearing, a thought-provoking novel that leaves readers with a jolting understanding of one of the most horrific periods in American history. The Invention of Wings is a moving novel that may very well surpass any of Kidds previous masterpieces. The Invention of Wings can be purchased at most major bookstores and in e-Reader versions for Kindle and Nook.
Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center Better Sleep for Better Health By Michelle Martin According to statistics, approximately one-third of the U.S. population experiences some type of sleep problem at some point in their lives. Among the most common sleep disorders are sleep apnea; snoring; insomnia; excessive sleepiness and drowsiness during the day, such as narcolepsy; restless leg syndrome; shift work syndrome; and sleepwalking. Dr. David Westerman, medical director of Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center in Atlanta, suggests far more people suffer from sleep disorders than are diagnosed, however. Many people with sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea, just associate it as a normal part of getting older but it isnt, he says. Others may not even know they have a sleep problem. In either case, sleep problems that go untreated can have serious complications and implications. The most common health issues associated with sleep disorders are high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. So, many people with sleep problems are not only suffering from their sleep problems but also are battling serious, even life-threatening, medical conditions. Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center opened in 1982 as the first fully accredited sleep disorders center in Georgia for diagnosing and treating common sleep disorders. Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center expanded last year with several new locations Roswell, Cumming, Canton, and two in Atlanta. Each location offers the latest digital technology and comfortable sleep amenities for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment by board-certified sleep specialists and technicians; operating under the Northside Hospital network also ensures a comprehensive approach to patient care. Northsides expansion of multiple sleep centers offers patients all across metro Atlanta easy access to diagnosis and treatment by a hospital network that they know and trust, says Dr. Westerman. It demonstrates Northsides commitment to promote awareness of the serious medical conditions associated with sleep disorders and to provide patients with comprehensive quality care at a location that is convenient to them. The brand new Atlanta location on Johnson Ferry Road includes a 10-bed sleep lab that features hotel-like private rooms, each with a private bathroom and comfortable amenities like individual climate control, flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi and breakfast in bed. Accommodations also are available for patients who require a special caregiver. A team of physicians, including pulmonary specialist Dr. Robert Albin, and other sleep specialists work together to review sleep studies and determine the best treatment. Having both pulmonary and sleep specialties in one facility has brought a new dimension to Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center, says Dr. Westerman. Patients now have a one-stop shop for all areas of diagnosis and treatment. In addition, Northside Hospitals large network of primary care physicians throughout metro Atlanta makes referral easy and convenient to most sleep centers. The largest percentage of patients at Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center are treated for sleep apnea. Patients are clinically diagnosed with sleep apnea if they stop breathing more than five times in an hour; 5-15 times is considered mild; 16-30, moderate; and 30 or more times per hour, severe. Sleep apnea is twice more common in men than women, especially men who are overweight and age 50 or older. Dr. Westerman suggests that primary care physicians and cardiologists can play an important role in recognizing symptoms of sleep apnea among their patients. The STOP questionnaire is a useful tool to screen such patients. STOP refers to snoring, feeling tired during the day, observed breathing pauses, and high blood pressure. Patients with any two out of the four signs should be evaluated for sleep apnea. In addition to the health risks of high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, sleep apnea also can take an emotional and mental toll on patients leading to depression, memory loss and inability to focus, and poor work performance. Dr. Westerman recalls a former assembly line worker who was diagnosed with sleep apnea, but did not accept immediate treatment and subsequently was fired after falling asleep on the job. Once sleep apnea affected his livelihood, of course he wanted immediate treatment so he could work again. Sleep apnea has all sorts of complications and implications even causing marital problems, when snoring keeps spouses from sleeping in the same bed. The most common treatment for moderate or severe sleep apnea is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy. A CPAP unit pumps in air through the nostrils via a mask to open the airways so patients can breathe normally. Less severe sleep apnea may be treated with alternative approaches, such as an oral appliance, weight loss and changes in sleep positions. Surgery to the upper airway, for the most part, is no longer regarded as a first-line treatment option, except for a tonsillectomy in children with sleep apnea. Dr. Westerman says he advises patients individually as to which course of treatment is best based on their needs and situation. Where there are choices, I explain the pros and cons of each. But, if I feel the CPAP is essential, then thats what I recommend. Its important to me to make my patients as informed as possible about their condition and treatment. As the CPAP masks have become more comfortable for patients, compliance as well as improved sleep and health has increased. Patients are re-evaluated within 30 to 90 days to ensure the CPAP device is comfortable and is being used the recommended amount of time (four to seven hours each night, at least 70 percent of the time, per insurance standards). Our compliance history at Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center is more than 80 percent, which is much higher than the average, Dr. Westerman says. People dont have to suffer with sleep apnea and all the health risks associated with it. With proper treatment, they can sleep better, improve their blood pressure and reduce their need or dosage for medications. All that leads to an overall healthier and more enjoyable quality of life. Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Center404-236-8200 993-C Johnson Ferry RoadSuite 100, Atlanta 5505 Peachtree Dunwoody Road Suite 580, Atlanta 1357 Hembree RoadSuite 120, Roswell 1100 Northside Forsyth DriveSuite 230, Cumming 15 Reinhardt College ParkwaySuite 104, Canton State-of-the-Art Digital TechnologyIn-Lab & Home Sleep StudiesVariety of Treatment OptionsMost Insurance Accepted5 Convenient Clinic LocationsCentralized Scheduling InsomniaSnoringSleep Apnea Excessive Sleepiness/DrowsinessNarcolepsyRestless Leg SyndromeSleepwalking & Other Sleep Behaviors
R & D Mechanical Meeting Your HVAC Needs with Integrity By Michelle Martin Since starting R & D Mechanical Services in 2002, owners Robbie and Dana Matiak have followed a single principle that serves as the foundation of the entire company: to meet your HVAC needs with integrity. We know there are a lot of HVAC companies out there, so we have set our own high standards to make R & D Mechanical different, says Robbie. We want the R & D Mechanical name to mean something. We want R & D Mechanical to be the best of the best. In fact, R & D Mechanical operates by 16 core values, which include being fair and honest; treating customers with respect; giving customers more than they expect; and meeting customers needs without selling, just to name a few. Robbie and the R & D Mechanical team stand by their core values day in and day out including them on the company website and on advertising campaigns. I have always believed that if you concentrate on doing what is right, then everything else will work out, he says. Robbie, who has more than 25 years field and operations experience in the HVAC industry, says he always knew he would have his own company. I feel like I was called to the HVAC industry. I love fixing problems and serving people, he says. This company isnt just about making money; its about trust and relationships. We are willing to sacrifice revenue in order to maintain our own high standards for quality and integrity. R & D Mechanical offers residential and commercial HVAC installation, repair and preventative maintenance throughout Cherokee County and metro Atlanta. The company uses reputable, name-brand products that are known for quality, durability and affordability including Trane, Carrier and Liebert. R & D Mechanical is a NATE-certified company and all R & D Mechanical service technicians participate in ongoing education of new industry requirements and new product controls. We place a big emphasis on training because we feel investing in our technicians will pay off for us in satisfied customers and referrals, Robbie says. We want to create a work environment at R & D that promotes pride among employees. The more we show that we value our employees, the more value they will bring to the company in quality workmanship. In addition, R & D technicians also are expected to maintain a neat appearance, be courteous and perform their jobs with integrity. Our employees are a reflection of the company, he adds. We expect them to represent R & D as the quality company that people in the community business owners, school and church leaders, and our neighbors know. That level of commitment to quality, in both service and employees, has established R & D Mechanical as a dependable, trustworthy company with consistent results. Customers return and refer other customers because R & D values them as customers first. We dont try to up-sell our customers and dont offer cookie-cutter systems and solutions. We believe in informing and educating customers on all available options based on their individual needs, Robbie says, noting that in some instances it is a better investment to replace the entire HVAC unit rather than continue to put money into costly repairs of an older system. We help customers make the best decision that is right for them because, ultimately, that is best for the company. Many customers have come to trust R & D so much that they will leave a key or garage access code for technicians. There is real value in that level of trust and you cannot get this level of trust and service from randomly choosing a Yellow Pages or Google ad. As R & D Mechanical has grown over the years, Robbie and Dana have welcomed their children into the family business. Their son, Heath Matiak, is operations manager, and their daughter, Ashleigh Rich, is the dispatcher. Its great to be able to work together as a family, Robbie says. We respect each other and work together to make the right decisions for the company. Customers who have worked with Robbie over the years and have come to expect the quality, personal service he has provided appreciate that Heath and Ashleigh are there to offer the same level of service. I used to go out on service or sales calls every day, but I cant always do that now. There is a certain level of reassurance for customers to know that if I cant be there, then Heath can, he adds. With Heath and Ashleigh working now, customers have confidence in knowing R & D will continue to offer the same quality, dependable service for many years to come. R & D Mechanical backs all work according to manufacturers warranty and with its own 1-year labor warranty. The company services all brands of HVAC equipment and has been a Trane Comfort Specialist Dealer since 2010. Technicians are on call until 8 p.m., Friday-Monday, to assist customers in emergency service situations. The industry trend is to operate like a retail business, adding regular, scheduled service calls on the weekends, Robbie explains. But, for us, family is more important than business. We realize that everyone works to provide for their family, so we allow employees to schedule around family obligations when necessary while they are on call. At the end of the day, this business is not just for my family, he adds. Its for our employees, customers and vendors and their families. To be a successful company, we have to care for and value them first. Its just the right thing to do. R & D Mechanical3448 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton770-917-1795RandDMechanical.net HeatingCoolingInstallationRepairPreventative MaintenanceIndoor Air Quality Control
Artist Profile: Virginia Greaves Textile Paintings By Heike Hellmann-Brown Stitching layers of fabric together in a blanket style dates back to ancient Egypt and China. In the 18th Century, this quilting technique came from Great Britain to the American Colonies. Over time, quilts were enhanced by patchwork and appliqu designs. Their use ranges from bedding to armory, decoration, commemoration, heritage or as art. Virginia Greaves uses textile as an art medium. Originally from Alabama, initially she explored painting for her creative expression. My mother was an artist. I always watched her paint, she says. When I tried it, my painting looked exactly like her work. I felt the drive to create, but I didnt want to duplicate her style; so, I looked for something that would be truly mine, and discovered quilting. Greaves has been quilting since 2000. She found out quickly that she would not be content following someone elses quilting patterns. After studying different techniques, she developed her own style. The very first piece I did was inspired by the photograph of a dalmatian that I had as a child. My daughter tore the picture when she was a toddler, she explains. I used fabrics to recreate the image. Her fifth piece, Childhood, had more than 100 hours of work in it. In 2003, Greaves decided to show it to the public winning a 1st place ribbon and Best of Show. The early success gave her confidence to enter more prestigious exhibits and challenged her to create more intricate designs. Today, Greaves subject matter ranges from 3-D work to abstract patterns, animals, and people. Through the years, my work has become more focused on portraits. I find them challenging when created in fabric, and I delight in finding that little spark in each individual and showing it in my work. Greaves utilizes commercial prints and hand dyes to paint with fabrics, and her stunning pieces are shown at juried exhibits across the entire country. She has won many awards for her quilts, among them 1st place ribbons for her detailed portraits of Amelia Earhart and Bukonyan Elder at the La Conner International Quilt and Fiber Arts Show in La Conner, Wash., and a 1st place award for her Abraham Lincoln portrait at the International Quilt Festival in Houston. This contemporary fiber artist is also raising awareness for textile as an art medium by co-curating Fiber Art Fusion, an invitational exhibit held annually in Marietta. Depending on the complexity, Virginia Greaves creates six to eight pieces a year. Lately, she is very inspired by iconic depression-era photojournalist Dorothea Lange. One of her latest pieces, Worry, recreates Langes famous 1936 photograph, Migrant Mother. At first, my intention was to draw parallels to our current economic woes, but, after working on it for a while, I really felt as though this mother was truly emblematic of all mothers, caring for their children and worrying about the way forward. VirginiaGreaves.com
Book Review: Fall of Giants The first book in Ken Folletts Century trilogy is worth revisiting before the final release of the series next month. By Catherine Groves Three years ago, best-selling author Ken Follett released Fall of Giants, or book one of his Century trilogy. With the third and final volume due in September, loyal fans can reacquaint themselves with the first two books in the trilogy. New readers as well can read books one and two and discover why the series has captivated readers all over the world. Review after review refers to the Century trilogy as a magnificent historical epic. The story follows five interrelated families from two continents. These families, their fate, and their stories move through life as world-shattering events, such as World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the struggle for womens rights, happen in dramatic fashion all around them. As a young teenager, Billy Williams enters a mans world in the pits of a Welsh mining town. Meanwhile, a continent away, American law student Gus Dewar finds himself with a surprising new career working within President Woodrow Wilsons White House. Two orphaned Russian brothers, Grigori and Lev Peshkov, seek different paths after their plans to emigrate to America disintegrate in the face of war, conscription, and revolution. Bringing together the rest of the families, we find Billys sister, Ethel, a housekeeper for the aristocratic Fitzherberts, reaching above her position. Meanwhile, Lady Maud Fitzherbert enters forbidden territory as she falls in love with Walter von Ulrich, a spy at the German embassy in London. These characters and many others unfold in a dynamic never-ending saga and complexity that keeps readers attention. Fall of Giants takes place when events from the United States to Russia dominate the world stage. The author seamlessly folds the grit and grime of a Welsh coal mine and the glitter from palace chandeliers into one interconnected story. The story moves effortlessly from forbidden romance to blood on the battlefields. Within the five families, we see each of them as they are involved in major upheavals of the early 20th century that will grip readers with the first page. By chapter two, Fall of Giants will be hard to put down as it brings together different countries and different classes. While the story is involved and lengthy, Follett goes to great lengths to ensure the accuracy of historical events woven into this magnificent work of fiction. This first volume in the Century trilogy tells a big story that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the remaining books in the trilogy. The good news is that new and loyal fans can relish in the intrigue and intricate stories of the first two books as they await Edge of Eternity, the final volume in the Century trilogy, to be released on Kindle and hardback on September 16.
Artist Profile: Nancy Cann Fused-Glass Designs By Heike Hellmann-Brown It was Nancy Canns husband who got her started on her endeavor with glass paintings. A few years ago, we searched for something to do together, she says. I dont care for sports, and he doesnt care much for gardening. We were both inspired by the beautiful pictures in a how-to book about enameled jewelry. Vitreous or glass enameling is made by fusing glass to metal under high heat. Enameling allows the artist to work in rich, saturated tones, or the subtlest of pastel shades. Cann called several art schools, but couldnt find any enameling instructors. So, she and her husband signed up for a class on fused-glass jewelry, which is similar to enameling in that both use glass chips and a kiln. After a few attempts, my husband decided that fusing glass wasnt for him. I, on the other hand, found glass fusing to be great fun! When I first started in 2000, I used a small corner of my husbands workshop and listened to an old radio. Now, 14 years later, Ive taken over most of the basement, acquired a stereo, and my husbands workshop has been reduced to his toolbox although, I have laid claim to most of the tools! After designing fused-glass jewelry for a while in a rather competitive market, Cann felt she had taken it as far as she could. So, she concentrated again on her initial desire to learn more about enameling. Her experiments generated glass art pieces with crackled effects. I am very innovative, she says. So, I rose to the challenge and developed my own techniques. Born in Birmingham, Ala., Cann grew up in the Atlanta area. Her school teachers exposed her to art and kindled her curiosity. Horses were her favorite subject back then, and she graduated with a degree in zoology, wanting to be a wildlife illustrator. Later, she worked in commercial arts, designing business presentations. I am driven to do art any kind of art, she says. Cann is a published photographer with a strong interest in wildlife photography and also paints in acrylics and oils a talent she uses when making her glass objects. I actually paint with glass, Cann explains. She draws something out and then uses powdered glass to lay in the design. I play with color and composition. My work is constantly evolving, she says. While Nancy Canns favorite subject remains horses, she also crafts glass art of landscapes, flowers, and abstract pieces, either as wall hangings or to put on a stand. Another application of her work is the decoration of mirror frames and clocks with glass mosaics unique designs that are often commissioned. Cann sells her artwork in local and national art shows, and is represented by various galleries across the country. She is a past vice president and the current Membership Committee chair of the Atlanta Glass Art Guild. CellarArt.com
'The Target' CIA operative Will Robie returns in David Baldacci's latest spy thriller! By Catherine Groves When David Baldacci releases a new novel, his fans know they are in for a treat. When the novel is a continuation of his characters from a previous series, the wait can be quite painful. Baldacci's recent release of "The Target" in the Will Robie series is his third release in just as many years. "The Target" features CIA hitman Will Robie and fellow agent Jessica Reel. From the start, "The Target" weaves in a new wrinkle with a terminally ill Alabama death row inmate, Earl Fontaine. Fontaine will affect Will and Jessica personally with his deathbed plans. Readers are left in suspense as to his ultimate plans and his true identity until well into the story. Meanwhile, an incredible international plot that would endanger the United States and possibly bring down the president unfolds in Washington, D.C. The president turns to the CIA for help. The CIA can provide the unmatched assassins for the chance to eliminate a global enemy. However, the CIA director has issues with Robie and Reel, as readers will remember from the previous book in the series. Internal battles, jockeying for power, and an agency in turmoil leave the CIA director without many outs. Plus, his personal agenda behind the mission does not guarantee Robie and Reel's survival. After overcoming unbelievable attempts to prevent their success individually, personally, and professionally, Robie and Reel are sent to another continent for a more dangerous follow-up mission. "The Target" takes another twist, as this follow-up mission in a foreign land that is a sworn enemy of the United States has no margin for error. Capture would result in death for Robie and Reel, and could even provoke a war with the United States. Should they be captured and the president step in, the president could be impeached. While the United States plans its own international espionage with its top CIA agents, the same rogue nation has a surprise of its own. An agent that they have trained to kill at the highest level is being asked to do something that no other nation has been able to accomplish: strike to the very heart of America and also take out the top two CIA agents at the same time. As Reel deals with her background and Robie realizes that age has his days numbered as the top agent at the CIA, the story barrels along to a stunning conclusion. "The Target" continues to provide multiple layers of suspense and plot surprises with each new chapter once again proving that a David Baldacci novel is best read before bedtime to ensure a good night's sleep. Otherwise, plan to be up all night. "The Target" can be purchased at most major bookstores and in e-Reader versions for Kindle and Nook.
Danita Grant: A Journey into the Arts By Heike Hellmann-Brown A former president of the Alpha Arts Guild and member of the Roswell Fine Arts Alliance, Danita Grant is an ambassador of the arts. As the oldest of six children, she grew up in Chicago in a family of modest means, but with great appreciation for classical music and visual art. In 1974 she moved to Georgia with her husband, raised four kids and worked as a systems analyst for the City of Alpharetta. At age 50, Grant encountered a turning point. "Soon my children would leave home. How would I deal with this dramatic change?" she recalls. "It was time to plan my own future and figure out what to do with the rest of my life!" She pursued different interests, but wanted to focus on something that works well with the aging process. "Being very analytical, I found that painting opened a new world to me not just the creative endeavor, but also the social aspect." Grant's first art teacher happened to be the illustrator of "The Elf on the Shelf" children's book. From then on she continued her education with many instructors. "Every teacher moved me forward," she notes. "I am incredibly inspired by each of them artists who are so present to their students, give guidance and graciously share their spirit." Grant sees her venture into art as a journey and encourages others to follow as their interests and talents lead them. "Producing a piece of art is a continuing challenge. I learned to be humble and to persevere and approach it as a never-ending growth opportunity. Not being born with a talent often holds people back from exploring their creativity, fearing failure and rejection. Each of us has an enormous potential. Approach gardening or cooking as an art form! Step out of the box and be yourself! It may make you feel vulnerable, but the reward is immeasurable." Even at this stage in her life, Grant sees herself as a work in progress. "Life is not over when kids leave the house. Now, as a senior citizen, I have an insatiable thirst of history and am constantly exploring new areas of growth. My advice is to be more introspective. 'Who am I? What can I achieve? How can I contribute to society?'" When Grant paints, she loses herself in the process. "Art is meditative. There is no urgency, merely the enjoyment of the journey. Creating art piques my curiosity and intrigues me. There is an innate drive in me to express myself. The more you do, the more you test. But, it all starts out with: 'Yes, you can!'" While this journey means exploring different mediums and techniques, there is one piece that Grant is the most proud of: "'Compromised' was painted after a photograph of a bald eagle in Alaska. Although it was in captivity, it showed a regality of spirit," she explains. "It's such a strong patriotic theme, and it fills me with pride that this piece hangs in the office of a member of the U.S. Air Force." StudioDanita.com