OTmag_feb11

32
Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE The Paulding Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine PRESORTED STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #2397 TAMPA, FL Hiram s Dallas s C edarcrest s New Hope Our Town VISIT US ONLINE AT OURTOWNFAMILY.COM Happy Valentine’s Day! February 2011

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Transcript of OTmag_feb11

Page 1: OTmag_feb11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE �

The Paulding Area’s Family Lifestyle News MagazinePRESORTED STD

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT #2397

TAMPA, FL

Hiram s Dallas s Cedarcrest s New HopeOur Town

VISIT US ONLINE AT OURTOWNFAMILY.COM

Happy Valentine’s Day!

February 2011

Page 2: OTmag_feb11

PAGE 2 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our Town

P r o u d l y S e r v i n g T h e C o m m u n i t y S i n c e 1 9 9 3O v e r 1 0 0 Y e a r s C o m b i n e d E x p e r i e n c e

770-439-1959

U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,507

Remember Your Love

Hwy. 278 & 92 in Hiram l www.prestigejewelers.netHours: Mon-Fri 9:30am - 6 pm, Sat. 9:30am - 5pm, Closed Sun.

Anniversary Sale!Merry Christmas!

Valentine’sDay

February 14Open Feb. 13

11am-5pm

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE �

Page 4: OTmag_feb11

Our Town is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the Paulding County Area. Opinions expressed by the editorial staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town reserves the right to edit and or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents, including ad design created by Our Town Media Group, Inc., copyright 2011, belong to Our Town of Paulding. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

Our TOwn Magazine P.O. Box 614

Hiram, Georgia 30141Telephone: 770-222-2699

Fax: 770-222-4646Email: [email protected]

Publisher/ediTOr: Jules Williams / Teresa Parrish

PAGE 4 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

Graphics and desiGn

Our�Town�Media�Group,�Inc.Straightaway�Designs�-�Website

photoGraphy

contributinG Writers:

Our Town Hiram s Dallas s Cedarcrest s New Hope

The Paulding Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

THE HUDDLE

www.OurTownFamily.com

About the Cover...............................................................5Health & Fitness: Snow & Winter Sports.........................6 Calendar of Events.........................................................8, 11Relationships: Is Marriage Obsolete?.............................12 Family Focus: Childhood Seizures....................................14 Gardening: Snow and Ice..................................................16Home Improvement: Home Automation.......................17 Community: Paulding Senior Center.............................18Home & Design: Details.....................................................19Seasonal: Valentine Ideas................................................20Travel: Romantic Weekend Getaways............................20Finance: Business Networking..........................................21Medical: Winter Sports Injuries....................................22More About the Cover....................................................24 Feature Photographer: Slava Slavik...............................24 Seasonal: Why Chocolate?..............................................25Outdoors: GA Fishing.....................................................26Letter from the Editors....................................................28Pets: Valentine Reward....................................................29 February Crossword........................................................30 What’s Cookin’: Dinner for Two......................................30

in t

his

issu

e...

Follow us on

Leisa�Bailey,�Ph.D.Melissa�Cummings

Stephen�DrummondMark�Duffield,�M.D.

David�EisenScott�Flanagan

Dara�Hosch,�M.D.Kim�Kornblatt�&�Frank�Reiff

Pam�WalkerOur�Town�Media�Group,�Inc.

Slava�SlavikSlava�Slavik�Photography

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‘Some people are easy to love; They are human rays of sun;

They light up every life, And encourage everyone.’

his�is�an�excerpt�from�a�poem�called�You�Are�Often�in�My�Thoughts�by�Joanna�Fuches.�It�perfectly�describes�the�wonderful�couple�we�have�on�our�cover�this�month�–�Loran�and�Peggy�Wills.

Loran�and�Peggy�have�celebrated�54�years�of�marriage!�When�asked�about�the�secret�of�their�success,�they�both�agree�that�trusting�and�keeping�God�in�the�center�of�their�marriage�has�been�the�key.�When�you�follow�God’s�will,�everything�else�will�fall�into�place.�At�their�young�ages�of�79�and�75,�Loran�and�Peggy�remain�very�busy�in�their�lives�and�serving�our�community.

They�are�both�life�long�residents�of�Paulding�County.�Peggy�grew�up�near�downtown�Dallas�with�her�family.�Loran�grew�up�in�the�New�Hope�area.�As�a�young�boy,�Loran�would�help�his�father�on�their�farm�and�while�plowing�the�fields,�he�found�the�most�wonderful�Civil�War�relics�including�brass�buckles�and�bayonets.�To�this�day,�he�enjoys�collecting�relics�and�other�items�depicting�the�Civil�War.�

Their� fathers�worked� together� at� Lee�Hardware,� so� their� families�knew�each�other�while�they�were�growing�up.�But�it�wasn’t�until�Loran�was�out�of�the�Navy�before�he�REALLY�noticed�Peggy.�They�had�their�first�official�date�on�September�19,�1953.�After�dating� for� three�years,�Loran�said�“let’s�get�married.”�So,�on�August�17,�1956,� they�did.���

Loran�served� in� the�Navy� for� four�years�and�during�the�Korean�War.�He�worked� in�aviation� electronics,� although� he� would� have� preferred� to� have� been� jumping� out�of�airplanes�instead.�His�work�experience�in�the�Navy�allowed�him�the�opportunity�to�work�at�Lockheed.�There�were�quite�a�number�of� layoffs�at�Lockheed,�so�Loran�eventually�changed�to�a�more�stable�job�with�Georgia�Power�as�a�field�engineer.�Peggy�soon�followed�him�to�Georgia�Power�as�a�customer�service�representative�in�charge�of�the�Dallas�office.�

They�both�retired�from�Georgia�Power�in�April�of�1992.�Since�their�retirement,�they�are� “busier� than� ever.”� Loran� has� stayed� in� touch� with� the� men� he� served� with� in�the�Navy,�and�he�and�Peggy�have�traveled�to�cities�all�around�the�country�for�Loran’s�annual�Naval�Reunions.

T

abou

t th

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GA Reg. #401776www.RagsdaleAir.com

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE 5

Meet the Wills’Peggy & Loran

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PAGE 6 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

ost�people�pe rce i ve�snow� sim-

ply�as�frozen�water.�Delving� in� a� little�deeper,�snow�is�actu-ally�a�form�of�precipita-tion� in� the� form� of� ice�crystals.� These� ice� crystals�are� hexagonal� prisms� that� form�when� snow� freezes�up.�Prisms�are� formed� d u e�to� the� molecular� structure� of� water.� Time� and�again,�you�will�find�many�types�of�snow�on�a�moun-tain�depending�on� the�altitude,� temperature,� and�the�number�of�people�who�have�tracked�the�snow.�In�snowboarding,�to�become�a�good�rider,�you�will�need�to�get�used�to�all�of�them.�After�learning�some�facts� about� what� snow� is,� we� can� now� proceed�

with�knowing�how�surface�snow� forms�various�kinds�of�surfaces�for�snowboarding�and�skiing.�

PowderPowder� is� freshly� fallen,�untouched,� soft� snow.� Powder,�tiny�flakes�and�crystals�form�the�smooth�and�soft�surface�in�mountains.�It�forms�a�soft�smooth�surface�that�will�give�you�the�feeling�that�you�are�floating�in�a�weightless�envi-ronment.�Powder�is�often�packed�in�thick�layers�that�form�a�natural�pillow�for�any�crashes.�Most�snowboarders�and�skiers� find� powder� the� ultimate� surface� especially� since�it� is�the�best�snow�to�land�on.�Thick�powder�is�the�best�surface� for� trying� new� tricks� and� increasing� your� speed�record.� It� is� also� easier� to� carve� turns,� to� control� your�

M

5886 Wendy Bagwell Pkwy l Suite 301l Hiram, GA 30141770.439.7765Dr. Jared Key Dr. Daniel Roberts

cornerstone c h i r o p r a c t i c

Valentine’s DayPatient

AppreciationFebruary 14th

$14 X-Ray, Exam and Consultation for all New Patients February 14th only

8am-11am & 3pm-6:30pm ($300.00 value, call for appt.)

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speed,� and� to� hold� your� edge� when� the�snow�is�like�powder.�

CrudCrud�could�be�considered�as�the�next�phase�

from�powder.�As�more�and�more�people�ride�through�the�powder,�the�snow�gets�piled�at�cer-

tain�places�and�packed�down�at�others.�Fresh�pow-der�snow�soon�becomes�“tracked�out”�and�results�in�an�

uneven�surface�with�lumps�of�soft�powder-like�snow�and�slippery�patches.�With�this,�the�amount�of�resistance�that�your�board�encounters�is�always�changing.�Snowboarding�on�crud�is�more�challenging�than�riding�on�powder,�but�it� does� not� necessarily� mean� it� is� less� fun.� The� key� to�traversing�crud�is�to�ride�more�aggressively.�When�riding,�keep� your� knees� bent� to� absorb� the� impact� that� come�from�riding�bumps�and�the�uneven�terrain.

CrustAs�the�name�implies,�this�type�of�snow�has�a�harder�crust�on�top�of�softer�powder�snow.�Crust�is�formed�when�the�sun’s� rays� and� the� wind� melt� the� top� layer� of� powder,�and� then� the� cold� air� temperature� makes� it� freeze� into�solid� again.� If� the� crust� is� hard,� you� will� remain� riding�on�top�of�the�harder,� icy�surface.�If� the�crust� is�soft�you�will�most�likely�punch�through�it,�thus�breaking�the�crust�with�your�ankles�as�you�ride�through�it.�Similar�with�crud,�you�will�need�a�more�aggressive� riding�style.� In�making�turns,�be�sure�to�keep�your�snowboard�out�of� the�crust�by�either�jump�turning�or�at�least�by�pulling�your�knees�up�in�turns.�

SlushWhen� the� air� temperature� becomes� warmer� than� the�freezing�point,�the�snow�starts�to�melt�and�its�water�con-tent�becomes�very�high.�With�this,�the�delicate�snow�crys-tals�change� into� large�grains�of� ice�and�slush� is� formed.�Wet�snow�is�heavier�to�traverse�on�than�light�slow�so�you�will� notice� how� the� turns� in� slush� are� harder� than� on�softer�snow.�Similar�with�crust�and�crud,�more�aggressive�moves� are� needed� to� perform� your� usual� techniques.�Smooth� carving� turns� are� the�way� to� go� in� slush� if� you�want�to�keep�it�easy�and�not�wear�yourself�out.�

IceIce�is�hated�by�snowboarders�with�the�same�intensity�as�they�love�powder.�This�type�of�snow�is�the�exact�opposite�of�powder�-�hard,�slippery,�and�most�of�the�time�consid-ered�hell.�Actually,�you’ll�never�find�real�ice�on�the�slopes.�What�you�do�encounter�is�snow�that�has�been�melted�and�frozen�again�for�a�number�of�times.�This�forms�a�solid�sur-face�of�icy�compact�snow�that�is�often�referred�to�as�“ice”.�The�key�to�riding�ice�is�to�keep�your�movements�smooth�and�subtle.�If�you�brake�too�hard�or�put�too�much�pressure�on�an�edge�you�will�probably�slip�and�suffer�a�painful�land-ing.�Remember,�ice�rides�fast,�snow�will�slow�you�down.���Snow�conditions�do�not�only�affect�the�way�you�ride�your�board,�it�affects�injury�patterns�as�well.�Hard�pack�snow�generally�capitulate�high-speed�and�impact�injuries.�Make�sure� to� wear� the� most� appropriate� snowboard� jackets�and�gloves.�Powder�and�heavy�snow�on�the�other�hand�is�associated�with�more�twisting�injuries.

heal

th &

fitn

ess

Understanding the Snow for Winter Sports

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE 7

LOCATIONS:HiramCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C. 5604 Wendy Bagwell ParkwayUnit 913, Bldg 900Poplar Pointe Professional CenterHiram, Georgia 30141Phone: 770-459-0620CarrolltonCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.825 Dixie St.Carrollton, Georgia 30117Phone: 770-836-7987Villa RicaCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.Tanner Medical Park – Villa West690 Dallas Hwy, Suite 101Villa Rica, Georgia 30180Phone: 770-683-4050NewnanCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.37 Calumet Parkway Building F, Suite201Newnan, Georgia 30263Phone: 770-683-4050

NEWLOCATION IN HIRAM!

5604 Wendy Bagwell ParkwayUnit 913, Bldg 900

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Hiram, Georgia 30141770-459-0620

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BremenCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.306-B Laurel StreetBremen, Georgia 30110Phone: 770-836-7987Peachtree CityCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.19 Eastbrook BendPeachtree City, Georgia 30269Phone: 770-836-7987SmyrnaCenter for Allergy & Asthma of West Georgia, P.C.562 Concord RoadSmyrna, Georgia 30082 Phone: 770-836-7987

No Waiting for Appointments

Eugene S. Hurwitz, M.D. Erinn T. Gardner, M.D.Lily G. Hwang, M.D. Randy Stoloff, M.D.

Allergy & Asthma SpecialistsBoard Certified

www.caawg.com

Don’t Let AllergiesSpoilYour Fun!

Toe 2 Toe Fitness1665 Hiram-Douglasville Hwy., Suite D, Hiram, GA 30141770-222-5255

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Page 8: OTmag_feb11

PAGE � For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com � Our Town

***PLEASE�NOTE�–�Dates,�times�and�locations�are�always�subject�to�change�prior�to�printing.���������������������

VALENTINE’S DAY SERENADE – Hosted by Paulding Co. Park & RecRegister NO LATER than February 9th by 5pm; Serenades held Monday February 14; 9am-4pmSend�your�Valentine�a�love�song�or�song�of�appreciation�plus�a�special�gift�and�card�with�your�sentiments.�All�performances�limited�to�Paulding�County�ONLY.�All�ages�are�welcome!�$15�per�serenade;�serenades�will�be�between�9am�-�4�pm�on�Monday�Feb.�14.�To�make�your�reservation�please�visit�Mt.�Tabor�Park�at�1550�E.�Paulding�Drive,�Dallas.�For�more�info�call�770-505-3885.

SCREENWRITER’S GROUPFebruary 1; 1st Tuesday of the month; 3pm @ Hiram Coffee HouseFebruary 20; 3rd Sunday of the month 1pm @ Starbucks in HiramFor�more�info�visit�www.GeorgiaScreenWriters.com.

PAULDING COUNTY WRITERS’ GUILD*February 1st; 1st Tuesday of the month; 6pm-8pm The�PCWG�meets�at�the�Starbuck’s�café�in�the�Target�store�in�Hiram.�For�more�info�call�Dana�Freeman,�678-662-1948.

PAULDING CHAMBER - GEORGIA POWER LUNCHEONPaulding County Senior Community CenterFebruary 3; Thursday 11:30 to 1:00pm�Keynote�Speakers�and�Co-Authors,�Barry�L.�Brown�and�Gordon�R.�Elwell.�Authored,�‘Crossroads�of�Conflict:�A�Guide� to�Civil�War�Sites� in�Georgia’.�$15/members,�$25/non-members.�For�info�visit�pauldingchamber.org�or�call�770-445-6016.

MOM’S CLUB OF DALLAS AND HIRAM*February 4; 1st Thursday of each month 10am – Bethany Christian ChurchMOMS� (Moms�Offering�Moms�Support).�Meetings� are�held� at�3264�Villa�Rica�Hwy�(Hwy�61)�Dallas.�For�more�information�email�[email protected].�

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)* - McEachern United Methodist ChurchFebruary 3 and 17; 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month; 9:30am – 11:30amOpen�to�moms�with�children�ages�birth�to�kindergarten.�Meet�in�the�Oaks�Hall�build-ing�and�child�care�is�provided.�For�more�info�call�770-943-3008�ext.�1260.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)* – Fortified Hills Baptist Church, DallasFebruary 4 and 18, 1st and 3rd Fridays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. �MOPS� -� a� place� to� find� friendship� and� support� as� a� woman� and� mom.� Childcare�provided.�Visit�www.fortifiedhills.com�or�call�Kenni�Raye�at�678.398.9771.��

Paulding County Genealogical Society* – Old Dallas CourthouseFebruary 5; 1st Saturday of the monthMeetings� are�held� in� the�Historical�Research�Library� in� the�old�Dallas� courthouse.�Membership�$15/year.�The�Library� is�open�Tues.,�Thurs.,�Fri.�and�Sat.� from�9am�to�3pm�and�on�Wed.�10am�to�3pm.�For�more�info�email�[email protected]

COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE – Watson Government ComplexFebruary 8; 12pm – 8pm240�Constitution�Blvd.,�Dallas.�Call�770-445-6016�to�pre-register�your�time.�

PAULDING 45 & OVER SINGLES CLUB ACTIVITIES*February 8; 2nd Tuesday of each month 6:30pm – Ryan’s in HiramPaulding�Singles�Club�members�participate� in�dining�socials,�dance�nights,�movies,�bowling,�car�shows,�music�events,�adopt�a�solider�and�more.�Monthly�meetings�are�held�at�Ryan’s.�For�more�information�please�call�Andree�at�770-505-3237.

WRITERS CRITIQUE GROUP – “WRITERS OF LIKE MIND”*February 9 and 23; 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month; 6pm – 7:30pmFor�published�and�unpublished�authors;�no�poetry.�Call�Hank�Somma�for�meeting�location.�678-414-6146�or�[email protected].�

PAULDING PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB* – Downtown DallasFebruary 10 and 24; 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month; 7pmMeetings�are�held�at�122�Main�Street�in�Dallas.��All�photographers�welcome.�Monthly�competitions,�field�trips�and�more.�[email protected],�the�website�is�pauldingphotographyclub.com

cale

ndar

of ev

ents February 2011

calendar of events continued on page 11

GRADES K3 - 12n Christ Centered Programn Biblical World Viewn Christian Self-Imagen Sports Program

(Tackle Football, Basketball, Baseball and other sports)

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Now Accepting

Applications for

2011-2012Academic

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4052 Hiram Lithia Springs Road, Powder Springs, GA 30127

n SACS & ACSI Accredited(Don’t accept less in accreditation)

n Certified Teachersn AP (Advanced Placement) Coursesn Chess and Robotics Clubsn Before & After School Care

“Growing Disciples to make Disciples through Christian Education” (Matthew 28:19)

Celebrating 29 Years of Christian Education

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE 9

Page 10: OTmag_feb11

PAGE �0 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l info@ourtownfamily l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

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Page 11: OTmag_feb11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l info@ourtownfamily l OurTownFamily.com PAGE ��

PAULDING BUSINESS ASSOC. LUNCHEON* – Stars and StrikesFebruary 10: 2nd Thursday of the month; 11:30am-1pmNetworking�and�Buffet�Lunch-$10.�Visitors�WELCOME!�pauldingba.org

NW ATLANTA MOMS OF MULITIPLES* – North Metro Church February 14; 2nd Monday of the month 7pmParent’s� club� for� families� with� or� expecting� twins,� triplets,� quads,� etc.� Offer�monthly�playdates,�Mom’s�Nights�Out,�and�special�events.�Visit�our�website�for�more�information�www.NOWAMOM.org�or�call�678-404-0034.

COBB EMC POWER BREAKFAST* – Bentwater Golf ClubFebruary 15; 3rd Tuesday of the month; 8am – 9:30amFocus�on�truly�successful�networking.�Meet,�mix,�and�mingle.�Bentwater�Golf�Club�is�located�at�100�Golf�Links�Drive,�Acworth.�Buffet�Breakfast�$10/members,�$15/non-members.�For�info�visit�pauldingchamber.org�or�call�770-445-6016.

NATIONAL SUPREME MISS SCHOLARSHIP AND RECOGNITION PROGRAM - Paulding Community Center in DallasFebruary 18-19This�program�recognizes�girls�ages�7-21�who’ve�excelled�in�academics,�volun-teer�service,�leadership�&�personal�achievements.�www.nationalsuprememiss.com.�

14th ANNUAL SISTERS IN CHRIST WOMEN’S CONFERENCEFebruary 19; Saturday 8am to 4pm - First Baptist of DouglasvilleJoin�women�from�all�over�West�Atlanta�for�a�day�of�fun,�praise,�fellowship�and�shar-ing�at�the�14th�annual�Sisters�in�Christ�Women’s�Conference.�Special�guest�speakers�include� Liz� Curtis� Higgs� –� Bad� Girls� of� the� Bible� and� Babbie� Mason.� Host� church�located�at�5900�Prestley�Mill�Rd.,�Douglasville.�Doors�open�at�8am.�No�cost�for�con-ference,� but� please� pre-register� online� to� receive� Conference� Package.� Lunch� not�provided.�For�more�info,�visit�sistersinchrist.com�or�call�(770)�562-9668.�

THE PAULDING LITERACY COUNCIL* – Paulding ChamberFebruary 25; 4th Friday of the month 10amMeetings�held�at�the�Paulding�Chamber.�Seeking�new�members,�volunteer�tutors,�and�adult�students�who�would�like�to�learn�to�read.�For�info�call�770-445-4511.

MY KIDZ CLOSET CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT SALEMarch 3-5; Thursday and Friday 8:30am-7pm and Saturday 8:30am-NoonSale�at�Community�Fellowship�Church�located�at�612�Cohran�Store�Rd.,�Douglasville.��Public�invited�to�PREVIEW�SALE�on�Wednesday�at�7pm�with�an�entrance�fee�of�$5�or�5�non�perishable�items.�www.mykidzclosetgeorgia.com

TOTS TO TWEEN SPRING CONSIGNMENT SALEFriday, March 11th from 1pm-8pmSaturday, March 12th from 8am – 12noon Sponsored�by�the�Northwest�Atlanta�Moms�of�Multiples.�TWO�day�sale�at�Sandy�Plains�Baptist�Church,�2825�Sandy�Plains�Rd,�Marietta,�GA�30066.�Clothing,�toys,�furniture,�and�more!�For�more� info,� contact�Megan�at�678-453-6993,� [email protected]�or�visit�www.NOWAMOM.org�

FAMILY ALLIANCE OF PAULDING 4th Ann. Dinner Dance Fund RaiserMarch 19; Saturday 6pm-11pm – Che’ne RougeThe�theme�of�this�year’s�event�is�Decade�Dance.�Wear�your�favorite�fashions�from�and�hear�your�favorite�tunes�from�the�50s,�60s,�70s�and�80s.�Dinner,�dancing,�raffles,�and�entertainment.�Catered�by�Jim�N’�Nicks.�This�event�should�be�the�most�talked�about�of�the�year.�$50/person;�$500/Table.�Business�sponsorships�available.�For�more�infor-mation�contact�Linda�at�[email protected]

EASTER/SPRING CONCERT – West Atlanta Douglas Choral SocietyMarch 22; Tuesday 8pmThis�traditional�Easter/Spring�Concert�will�be�held�at�the�Douglas�County�High�School�Performing� Arts-Mashburn� Theater;� 8705� Campbellton� Street,� Douglasville.� Tickets�are�$10.�Purchase�tickets�from�a�Chorale�member,�Kroger�in�Douglasville,�or�at�the�door�if�available.�For�more�info�on�WADCS,�visit�wadcs.org.

WINTER/SPRING PROGRAMS – Paulding Parks & RecreationFor�a�complete�list�and�deadlines,�visit�paulding.gov.

***Email� events� to� [email protected],� DEADLINE� –10th� OF� THE� MONTH.� SPACE� IS�LIMITED!�Put�Calendar�Event�in�the�subject�line.�LISTINGS�ARE�FREE,�RESTRICTIONS�APPLY.

cal

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DALLASTHE

Upcoming Events

email: [email protected]

Theatre l Dance l Concerts l Film l Comedy Performing Arts in the Heart of Paulding!

Tickets Available Online, via phone and at Our Box Office

Box Office open Mon, Wed, Fri 3PM-6PM & Sat 9AM-1PM

208 Main Street678-363-0813

Getting Married?Join us for our

Bridal ExpoSaturday February 19, 2011

8am to 3pmTaste cakes,

check out photographers, scout wedding venues!

Your one-stop bridal shop for local vendors.

Each vendor will be offering a door prize!

Tickets $5.00 on sale on our website and at our box office.

Join us as Charlie Bucket, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Mike Teavee and Violet Beauregarde tour Willy Wonka’s fantastic Chocolate Factory and learn a few lessons along the way! Our Narrator will guide you through this wacky world, but keep on your toes, as our Oompa Loompas really steal the show!

We are thrilled to offer our second children’s production and are honored to have such talented young people take the stage here at the Dallas Theater. We do hope you’ll join us for this truly ‘sweet’ show!

Tickets are $10 Regular Price and $7 for Discount Tickets (see list below for available discounts)Students with IDChildren 18 & underMilitary (with ID)

March 4th, 5th, & 6th March 11th, 12th, & 13thMain Street Players Kids present Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! A musical stage play based on Roald Dahl’s wonderful, whimsical children’s book.

Seniors age 62+Groups of TEN or more tickets pur-chased in one transaction

Check our website for more

upcoming events!

calendar of events continued from page 8

Page 12: OTmag_feb11

PAGE �2 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

By Leisa A. Bailey, Ph.D.

he� month� of� February� is� often� associated�with� love� because� of� the� celebration� of�Valentine’s� Day.� � However,� in� November,�

2010� a� startling� release� by� TIME� magazine� and�Pew� Research� Center� offered� a� sobering� poll�about� Americans� current� view� of� marriage.� The�headline�was�that�nearly�40%�of�those�polled�stat-ed�that�marriage�is�becoming�obsolete�(up�from�28%�in�1978).�This�caused�a�flurry�of�articles�and�more� than� a� little� concern� and� sadness� among�

marriage� therapists.� When� examined� more� closely� the�survey� offers� some� interesting� information� about� how�marriage�is�currently�viewed.�

In�the�1950s,�when�half�of�American�women�were�mar-ried�in�their�teens,�marriage�was�viewed�as�a�step�toward�adulthood�and�a�necessary�path� to� independence,�chil-dren,�and�intimate�companionship.�Moving�directly�into�marriage� from� adolescence� is� no� longer� expected� and�the�expectations�of�marriage�have�changed.�Couples�are�more� focused� on� having� a� higher� quality� marriage� and�the�current�view�of�marriage�has�shifted�to�less�necessary�and� less� focused�on�sacrifice�and�obligation;�and�more�about�romance,�life�fulfillment�and�happiness.

Getting�married�for�life,�having�children�and�raising�them�with� your� spouse� is� still� the� ideal� for� most� Americans�but�acceptance�of�the�alternative�paths�has�grown.�Johns�

rela

tions

hips

THopkins� University� sociologist� Andrew� Cherlin� states:�“Marriage� is� still� very� important� in� this� country,� but� it�doesn’t�dominate� family� life� like� it�used� to.�Now� there�are�several�ways�to�have�a�successful�family�life,�and�more�people�accept�them.”��It�is�without�debate�that�the�view�of� “family”� has� changed.� More� people� accept� the� view�that�a�marriage�isn’t�necessary�to�have�a�family.�Currently,�nearly�one� in� three�American�children�are� living�with�a�parent�who�is�divorced,�separated�or�never-married�(five�times�more�than�1960).

Sociologist,� Cherlin� also� discusses� differences� in� mar-riage� among� the� socio-economic� groups� stating:� “The�college-educated� wait� until� they’re� finished� with� their�education�and�the�careers�are� launched.� �The� less�edu-cated�wait�until�they�feel�comfortable�financially.”�There�was� a� 13%� increase� in� couples� living� together� from�2009� to� 2010.� With� the� recession� and� the� challenging�economy,�many�wait�to�get�married�and�opt�for�cohabita-tion.�Some�are� living� together�because� they�don’t�have�enough� money� to� live� alone,� and� they� aren’t� going� to�get� married� until� they� have� enough� money.� Therefore,�the� age� for� first� time� marriage� has� increased.� In� 2010�the�median�age�of�men�getting�married�for�the�first�time�was�28.2�and�26.1�for�women;�and�this�age�has�gone�up�about�one�year�every�decade�since�the�1960’s.�For�most�college-educated� couples,� living� together� is� a� prelude�to� marriage� after� better� financial� stability� is� achieved.�

However,� for� those�without� a� college�degree� the� trend�is�to�move�in�together,�have�children,�and�then�consider�marriage.

Currently� two-thirds� of� people� with� a� college� degree�are�married,�compared�with�less�than�half�of�those�with�a�high�school�degree�or�less.�Those�within�lower�socio-economic� levels� are� less� likely� to� marry.� It� is� unclear�whether� the� burdens� of� poverty� are� making� people’s�relationships� less� permanent� or� people’s� impermanent�relationships�are�worsening�their�economic�future.

The�view�of�marriage�has�changed�but�it�is�still�a�respect-ed�and�desired�life�path.�While�40%�believe�marriage�is�becoming� obsolete,� only� 25%� of� the� unmarried� stated�they�do�not�want� to�get�married;� and�among�currently�married,�80%�said�their�marriage�is�as�close�as�or�closer�than� their� parents’� marriage.� Additionally,� while� 44%�of� Americans� under� 30� believe� marriage� is� heading� for�extinction;�only�five�per�cent�of�those�in�that�age�group�do� not� want� to� get� married.� Marriage� is� complex� and�challenging� but� not� headed� to� be� obsolete� any� time�soon!�

Dr. Leisa Bailey is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in Marietta. Visit www.marietta-psychologist.com.or reach her at (770) 428-6698 or [email protected]. Your comments are welcome.

Many Believe Marriage is Obsolete

Page 13: OTmag_feb11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l info@ourtownfamily l OurTownFamily.com PAGE ��

Dear Friend, If you’ve ever thought about going to a chiropractor but you’ve hesitated because you weren’t sure it was right for you please read on… My name is Dr. Erin Arnold. I would like to show my heartfelt thanks to the community by celebrating the New Year with the announcement of Community Health Week. It’s my way of saying THANK YOU to the people who have been so helpful and mean so much. I hope this will benefit you and yours. I have agreed to “give away” (to any-one who asks for it) $200 worth of my services for only $20. That’s right-$20. In the years that I have been practic-ing I have helped many people in the North Georgia area feel better and live healthier, more productive lives through chiropractic care. I would now like to introduce you to the many benefits my profession has to offer. For instance, chiropractic care may be able to help you if you are suffering from any of the following conditions.

l Low back painl Neck Painl Migrainesl Sciatical Herniated discsl Degenerated discsl Shoulder/arm pain

And a whole host of other problems, ranging from TMJ to carpal tunnel.These symptoms can be caused when-ever the vertebrae in your spine are out of alignment, because this “misalign-ment” directly affects your nervous system. Fortunately, if you are suffering from such problems or similar conditions right now, they may be relieved or eliminated by proper chiropractic treat-ment (commonly called “adjustments”). So if you’ve always wanted to “check out” chiropractic care and see what is in it for you, now is the best time because….. Right now $20 will get you all the ser-vices I normally charge my new patients $200 for! What does this include? Everything. Take a look at what you’ll get….l An in-depth private consultation about your health and well being.l A chiropractic spinal examination….l A set of specialized X-rays to deter-mine if a misalignment in your spine

is causing your pain or symptoms… (NOTE: Nobody gives these kinds of X-rays FREE. They would usually cost $100)…l An analysis of your X-rays and spinal exam results so we can see what needs to be done to help.l Helpful literature that shows how your body works and why you experience pain…l Answers to all your most probing questions about chiropractic care and what it can do for you….

The appointment will not take long at all. And like I said, we normally charge $200 for this (most of which just covers the cost of the set of X-rays).

But now, as a part of this one time offer, you can come in and find out for certain if you need chiropractic care and how it can help you eliminate the pain you are feeling. Before you come in, though, you’ll probably want to know a little bit about me. So let me tell you….

MEET THE DOCTOR Prior to obtaining my Doctor of Chiropractic Degree at Life University in Marietta, GA, I received my B.S. degree in Biology. I am nationally and state board certified in Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. I am one of the few doctors in this area that is certified and performs spe-cific Activator analysis technique for the treatment of degenerative discs, scolio-sis, herniated discs just to name a few. I have happily donated my time to organizations such as MUST Ministries, YWCA (Domestic Violence Shelter for Women), and Ross Memorial, just to name a few. I am very proud to be a wife and mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a member of Liberty Church in Marietta, GA.

DOES CHIROPRACTIC REALLY WORK Absolutely! When you come in I’ll provide you with studies that show why chiropractic is a preferred method of treatment. But what provides the best “proof” on how well chiropractic works is what our patients say about it.

NECK PAIN AND TINGLING ARM PAIN

I came to NLCC with moderate to severe neck pain and tingling sensations (paresthesia) in my left arm. I feel bet-ter and do not have the pain anymore. I sleep better and have more time to spend playing sports with my children.

They have an incred-ible team here and they make me feel like a part of their family!

Thanks,Dr. Francisco Puentes-

Endocrinologist

KNEE PAIN AND LOW BACKPAIN (sports related)I came into NLCC because my mom is a patient here and sug-gested it when I started having severe back pain

while playing sports. My back feels much better when I play and my knee pain is rare. I am a lot more enjoyable to be around. I have never met people in the medical field as comforting and welcoming as the staff at NLCC. I have told everyone one about the wonderful care here!

Thank you, Emily Jones

TMJ AND HEADACHES I was in a lot of pain when I started coming for my adjustments at NLCC. I suffered with pain in my jaw and severe headaches. Now that I have been receiving chiropractic care my pain has decreased tremendously and I don’t have to worry about constant head-aches. I can walk my dog without pain and my posture has gotten better. My husband is also pleased with my prog-ress I am thrilled at how quickly I have improved due to chiropractic care and I love the positive caring atmosphere they have in the office.

Thank you,Denine Wolden

HIP, KNEE AND RADIATING LEG PAIN

I was having pain in my hip, knee and leg all the way down to my ankle. The pain kept me up at night! The pain is now almost entirely gone and a good night sleep has returned! I never real-ized how wonderful it was to sleep! I was amazed at how quickly I respond-ed. I have had chiropractic care before

but never such a gentle progressive healing.

Thank you for your help!Phyillis Waddle

GUARANTEE OF GREAT SERVICE Obviously we can’t guarantee results. No one can. But there is one guarantee we can give you and that’s a guarantee to accept your case only if we truly feel we can help.

LIMITED TIME OFFER Obviously, with an offer like this we can’t afford to do it for very long. So we’ve picked the dates of Feb. 1st-15th. If you would like to take us up on our offer and see what chiropractic can do for you, all you have to do is call our office and set up an appointment.

Call our 24 hour help line @ 678-574-5678 and tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Special Introduc-tory Examination during Feb. 1st-15th.

I expect to get flooded with appoint-ments for this event, so please call me as soon as possible to be sure that you don’t miss out.

Thank you very much, and I look for-ward to helping you get rid of your pain so you can start living a healthier, more productive life. God bless.

Sincerely, Dr. Erin Arnold, D.C.

ONLY $20 TO ANYONE WHO NEEDS HELP BUT HAS NEVER BEEN TO A CHIROPRACTOR BEFORE

(Or Hasn’t Been In A Long Time)

New LifeChiropractic

Center3451 Cobb Parkway

Suite 6Acworth, GA

Call Today

678-574-5678Paid Advertisement

Copyright Total Practice Management International.

Page 14: OTmag_feb11

PAGE �4 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

itnessing� your�child� have� a�seizure� can�

be�terrifying�for�any�parent.� However,�more�than�100,000�

American� children� experi-ence� seizures� every� year.� The�most� familiar� type� of� seizure� is� the�generalized� convulsion� but� some� sei-zure�activity� is�not�as�obvious.�Recognizing�what� is� happening� and� knowing� what� to� do�are� important� to� minimize� the� complications� of� a�seizure.�This�article�will�discuss�some�common�types�of�childhood�seizures�and�review�first�aid�recommendations.

A�seizure�is�defined�as�abnormal�electrical�impulses�in�the�brain.�This�leads�to�repeti-tive� jerking�movements,� staring� spells�or�unusual�behaviors.� Seizures�have�various�causes�including�brain�injury,�lack�of�oxygen,�illness,�poisons,�electrolyte�imbalances�and�genetic�conditions.�By�far�the�most�common�reason�for�a�childhood�seizure�is�fever.�A�sudden�change�of�body�temperature�lowers�the�brain’s�seizure�threshold.�For�children�between�the�ages�of�one�and�five�years,�most�seizures�are�simple�febrile�sei-zures.�These�seizures�generally�last�less�than�five�minutes�and�stop�without�any�medi-cal�intervention.�Afterwards�the�child�quickly�resumes�normal�behavior.�While�there�is�a�30�to�50�percent�chance�of�having�subsequent�febrile�seizures,�very�few�children�who�have�simple�febrile�seizures�go�on�to�have�a�chronic�seizure�disorder.

For�patients�with�chronic�seizure�disorders,�called�epilepsy,�fever�is�not�the�only�thing�that� can� increase� the� risk�of� a� seizure.�Flashing� lights,� fatigue,� stress,�medications,�breathing� too� fast,� and� stimulating�video�games�are�other� common� triggers.�Some�patients�experience�a�sensation�or�warning�sign�before�the�seizure�such�as�a�distinc-tive�smell�or�taste.�Other�patients�have�no�warning.�Seizures�appear�as�staring�spells,�full�body�convulsions,�or�subtle�movements�involving�only�a�small�part�of�the�body�with�no�loss�of�consciousness.�The�infantile�spasm�is�a�particularly�devastating�type�of�seizure�that�is�associated�with�metabolic�disorders�and�birth�injuries.�Unfortunately,�babies�who�have�infantile�spasms�often�experience�developmental�regression�follow-ing�a�seizure.�The�type�of�seizure�activity�depends�upon�the�portion�of�the�brain�that�is�affected.�Following�a�seizure,�some�patients�experience�confusion�and�sleepiness�called�a�post-ictal�period.

Since�simple�febrile�seizures�are�generally�brief�and�harmless,�no�treatment�is�needed.�Children�who�have�seizure�disorders�or�atypical�febrile�seizures�should�be�referred�to�a�neurologist�for�management.�Tests�are�used�to�determine�the�most�effective�treat-ment�for�each�patient.�Available�treatment�choices�include�medications�and�special�diets.� For�extremely� severe� seizure� conditions� that�do�not� respond� to�medication,�doctors� may� consider� implanting� a� vagus� nerve� stimulator� or� surgically� removing�the�part�of�the�brain�that�triggers�the�seizure.�Children�with�seizure�disorders�should�never�bathe�or�swim�alone.

If� you� witness� a� child� having� a� seizure,� it� is� important� to� remain� calm.� Check� the�time�so�that�you�can�track�how�long�the�seizure�lasts.�Seizures�that�last�more�than�an�hour�can�cause�neurologic�damage.�Keep�the�child�in�a�safe�place�where�he�or�she�is�unlikely�to�fall.�It�is�important�to�protect�the�child’s�airway;�do�not�put�anything�in�the�child’s�mouth.�Position�the�child�on�his�or�her�side�to�prevent�choking�on�vomit�or�phlegm.�If�the�child�has�a�fever,�sponge�down�the�child’s�skin�with�a�wet�cloth�and�keep�the�child� lightly�dressed.� It� is�safe� to�use�a�rectal�medication� if� it� is� indicated�for�fever�reduction�or�seizure�treatment.�Call�911�if�the�seizure�lasts�longer�than�10�minutes�or�causes�the�child�to�have�trouble�breathing.�After�a�seizure�it�is�important�to�follow�up�with�a�doctor.

Cobb Pediatrics has been helping families raise healthy children for more than 30 years.

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n Grades K5 – 12n After School Care Programn Laptop Program n Athletic Programn Art, Music, Spanish, PE, Computern Financial Aid Availablen Fully Accreditedn Low Student/Teacher Ratiosn Ask Us How Income Tax Dollars Can Be Used for Tuition!

Excellence in Education With A Kingdom Focus

Trinity Chapel Academy4665 Macland Road

Powder Springs, GA 30127678-831-1062

www.trinitychapelacademy.com

By Dara Hosch, MD, FAAPCobb Pediatrics, PC

Childhood Seizures

Page 15: OTmag_feb11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE �5

3698 Largent Way l Suite 201 l MariettaConveniently located across from The Avenue West Cobb

770.420.6565www.RossitchPediatricDentistry.com

Michael A. Rossitch, DDS, MS, PC Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

We provide an environment where kids can have a fun and happy dental experience while receiving the very best dental care available. Come tour our state of the art office with with themed rooms representing each continent from around the world.

MARIETTA410 Villa Rica WayMarietta, GA 30064

(678) 504-1199

POWDER SPRINGS5041 Dallas Hwy, Bldg 2, Ste D

Powder Springs, GA 30127(770) 425-5331

www.cobbpeds.com9:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday and 9:00am to 12:00pm on Saturdays

We have been helping families raise

healthychildren for more

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l Unique Boutique Giftsl Appliquel Custom Embroidery and Screen Printing for your church, school, team, businessl Your one stop gift shop!

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(most current styles only)We SELL new and used brand names for less!

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CLOTHINGwww.cilliesclothing.net

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any regular price item

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Haircuts Range from $25-$40Hair by Evan Blake Salon

Page 16: OTmag_feb11

PAGE �6 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com Our Town

VinylChain LinkWoodTrellisesDecorative MetalCustom GatesArbors

FREESingle

StandardWalk Gate

with Every 100 Feet of Fencing Installed

Applies to Wood and Chain Link ONLY

Some Restrictions ApplyCall for details.

7131 Hwy 78 Suite GWinston, Ga. 30187770-942-9770

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FREEESTIMATES

FINANCINGAVAILABLE

No more metal frames for wood gates! Try the New Sag Stopper.Installed on all wood gates. Free for a limited time only. Patent Pending

now� and� ice� are� just� another� challenge� to� the� gardener.� In� nature�plants� and� animals� have� adapted� different� ways� to� survive� the� cold� winter�weather� and�many�of�our� garden�plants�will� endure� several�degrees�below�freezing�without�any�problems�at�all.�The�trouble� is� that�a�huge�proportion�of�the�plants�that�we�grow�in�our�gardens�and�greenhouses�today�hail�from�

all�around�the�world.�Some�plants�are�from�places�where�snow�and�ice�are�a�totally�unknown�phenomenon�and�it�is�these�that�suffer�in�the�coldest�weather.�Many�can�be�protected�by�greenhouse�protection,�though�some�will�require�some�specialist�care�and�warmth�to�see�them�through�the�worst�of�the�weather.�Others�will�survive�in�a�cold�frame�or�in�a�cold�greenhouse,�protected�from�the�cold�using�greenhouse�insula-tion�and�other�techniques.�The�most�tender�plants�may�need�conservatory�or�house�protection�or�will�need�replacing�after�a�particularly�cold�winter.�You�need�to�weigh�up�the�cost�of�keeping�them�alive�against�the�cost�of�replacing�them.

In the Garden�Most�garden�plants�are�hardy�and�will�survive�all�but�the�most�extreme�winter�temper-atures.�Many�perennials�are�herbaceous�and�die�back�to�ground�level�for�the�winter,�with�their�crowns�at�or�below�the�soil�surface.�A�layer�of�mulch�will�protect�them�from�the�cold�and�then�as�the�weather�warms�in�spring�they�will�re-grow�to�create�a�mound�

of� foliage�and� flowers� for� the�new�season.�Other�plants�are�woody�or�shrubby�and�either�keep�their�leaves�as�

evergreens�or�drop�their�leaves�as�they�enter�their�winter�slumber.�Again,�unless�they�are�not�fully�

hardy,�these�plants�will�come�through�the�win-ter�to�a�flourish�of�new�growth�in�spring.

Lawn Care��

The� lawn�will�survive�a�period�under�heavy�snowfall.� It� is� advisable� not� to� walk� on� it�

while� it� is� snow� covered� as� you� may� cause�undue� damage.� The� snow� will� form� an� insu-

lating� layer� that� will� protect� the� grass� plants� for�short�periods�of� time.�After�a�heavy�and�prolonged�

snowfall�the�lawn�may�need�some�extra�tonic�and�TLC�in�early�spring.�Heavy�frost�can�also�lie�on�a�lawn�for�days;�again,�it�is�good�practice�not�to�walk�on�the�lawn�when�it�is�frosty�and�frozen.

Trees and shrubs�The�weight�of�snow�on�branches�can�be�sufficient�to�break�large�boughs�from�trees�and�shrubs.�Knock�off�heavy�snow�using�a�broom�to�prevent�broken�stems�and�dam-age.�Take�care�under�heavily�laden�tree�branches�as�they�have�the�potential�to�shear�off�and�fall.�If�there�has�been�some�damage�then�prune�back�to�healthy�wood�so�that�the�plant�can�heal� itself.�A�clean�cut�will�heal�quicker�and�be� less� likely� to�become�infected�with�fungal�or�even�bacterial�diseases.�

Ponds�Try�and�keep�an�area�of�the�pond�surface�free�from�ice.�Use�an�old�ball�that�you�can�float�in�the�water�and� then�when� it� freezes�over,� remove� the�ball�which�will� leave�an�area�uncovered� for� the� fish�to� breathe.� Keep� this� area� free� from� ice� for� as�long�as�possible.�Never�pour�boiling�water�onto�a�pond�to�melt�ice.

Editor’s Note: �Remember�the�Birds�-�It�is�common�in�winter�to�put�out�feed�for�wild�birds.�In�addition�to�food,�these�birds�also�need�fresh�water.�In�times�of�extreme�cold,�the�usual�sources�of�water�for�birds�may�be�absent�or�frozen.�When�feeding�birds�during�the�winter�months,�be�sure�to�regularly�supply�fresh�water,�as�well.

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Snow and Ice in the Garden

Page 17: OTmag_feb11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE �7

By Stephen Drummond

o�you�remember�the�Jetsons?�That�cartoon�family�who�lived�in�a�home�where�the�house�itself�served�their�every�need� and�desire?�We’re�not�quite� there� yet� as� a� society,�

but�we�are�getting�surprisingly�close.�Advances�in�automation�for�home�residences�have�made�it�possible�to�automate�everything�from�brewing�your�morning�coffee�to�feeding�the�pets.�Once�you�get�it�set�up,�all�you’ve�got� to�do� is�sit�back�and� let� the�house�take�over�for�you.�Almost Anything Is Possible�-�Literally�the�sky�is�the�limit�when�it�comes�to�what’s�possible�with�these�units.�Of�course,�your�budget�might�also�play�a� factor,�but� let’s�assume� it’s�not�an�option� for� the�time�being.�Take�a�look�at�what�these�technological�wonders�can�do.�Lighting�-�Automation�of�your�lighting�means�you’ll�have�access�to�different�light�settings� for�different�activities.� Imagine�having� the�perfect� lighting�

for�watching�television,�sitting�down�to�a�romantic�dinner,�or�tackling�the�bills,�all�at�the�touch�of�a�single�button.�Lighting�automation�also�means�your�hall�light�can�be�programmed�to�turn�on�when�it�senses�you�making�a�midnight�trip�to�the�bathroom,�your�porch�and�driveway�lighting�will�turn�on�when�you�pull�up�to�the�house,�and�your�kitchen�lighting�will�turn�itself�on�in�the�morning�when�you�ven-ture�in�for�your�morning�bowl�of�cereal.�Home Audio�-�Imagine�soothing�jazz�music�turning�on�in�your�bedroom�every�night�at�bedtime.�Or�how�about�the�morning�news�kicking�on�in�the�kitchen,�along�with�the�

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room�as�you�make�your�way�from�the�kitchen�to�the�bathroom�to�relaxing�on�the�porch�over�the�course�of�an�afternoon.�It’s�all�at�your�fingertips�with�

a�home�automation�system.�

Security� -� Another� huge� draw� of� home� automation� is� heightened�security.�Home�security�systems�can�be�wired�into�your�home�automa-tion�system�so�all� their� features�are�at�your�disposal.�You�can�check�wireless� feed� from� security� cameras� on� your� television� while� you’re�watching� the�big�game.�You�can�program�your� lights� to� alternate�off�and�on� from� room� to� room�while� you’re� away,� and� they� can� also�be�programmed� to� brightly� light� up� your� house� and� grounds� instantly�in� case� of� an� unwanted� intruder.� And� of� course,� your� home� automa-tion� system� will� always� be� in� touch� with� your� security� provider,� so�you� can� be� sure� help� is� on� the� way� in� case� the� unthinkable� happens.��Everything Else� -� While� the� above� mentioned� features� might� seem�impressive,� they�really�only�scratch�the�surface�what�the�automation�of�your� home� can� entail.� You� can� start� your� oven� cooking� dinner� from�across�town,�program�the�system�to�feed�your�pets�on�a�set�schedule,�water�your�plants,�open�and�close�shades�at�certain� times�of� the�day,�and�even�regulate�the�temperature�of�your�home�to�save�you�money�when�you’re�not�in.�The�truth�is,�the�Jetsons’�aren’t�nearly�as�far�off�as�we�might�think.

Page 18: OTmag_feb11

PAGE �� For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com Our Town

PAULDING COUNTY SENIOR CENTER

donations� for� their� bingo� prizes� and� cash� donations� for� the� luncheons� they� have�throughout�the�year.

The�Center�is�located�at�54�Industrial�Way�North�in�Dallas.�They�are�opened�Monday�through�Friday�from�8am-5pm.�For�more�information,�make�donations�or�volunteer,�please�contact�Senior�Center�Director,�Libby�Spencer�at�770-443-8873.

he� Paulding� County� Senior� Center� opened� in� 1991� and� provides�numerous�programs�for�those�55�years�and�older�living�in�the�com-munity.� It� is� a� multi-purpose� facility� where� senior� citizens� come�

together�to�socialize,�stay�active,�and�meet�new�friends.�They�provide�well-rounded� programs� of� social� and� recreational� activities.� Also,� they� assist�participants� in�achieving�and�maintaining� the�highest�possible�degree�of�physical�and�emotional�well-being.

Some�of�the�programs�the�Center�offers�to�Paulding’s�seniors�include,�exer-cise�classes,�weekly�singing,�art�classes,�billiards,�various�card�groups,�quilt-ing,�knitting�and�crocheting,�book�club,�day�and�over-night�trips.�The�Center�

also�serves�as�a�nutrition�site�for�the�County�where�over�100�seniors�enjoy�meals�each�day,�either�on-site�or�through�their�meals-on-wheels�program.�A�transit�program�is�also�in�place�to�provide�transportation�to�those�who�may�need�to�take�advantage�of�

it.�These�are�just�some�of�the�pro-grams� available.� Also,� the� Senior�Center�proudly�boasts�a�busy�and�talented� Quilting� Club.� The� Club�is� extremely� active� and� routinely�offers� their� beautiful� quilts� avail-able� for� sale� or� by� raffle� at� the�Center.��

The� Center� can� always� use� extra�help�from�volunteers.�They�accept�various� donations� from� the� com-munity� for� their� quilters� includ-ing� material,� thread,� sewing�machines,� etc.� � Also,� they� accept�

Paid Advertisement

When� it� comes� to� heart� attacks,� time� is� muscle.� So� when� it� matters� most,� trust� the�WellStar�Cardiac�Network.�For�many�heart�attack�victims,�chest�pain�or�discomfort� is�their�first�sign�of�trouble,�and�these�signs�can�be�mild�or�subtle.�Our�highly�trained�emer-gency�department�physicians�diagnose�heart�attacks�fast�and�efficiently,�and�WellStar’s�accredited�Chest�Pain�Centers�at�WellStar�Cobb,�Douglas�and�Kennestone�hospitals�can�quickly�treat�or�transfer�patients�for�the�interventions�they�need.�Interventions�range�from� angioplasty� and� stenting� to� unclog� any� blocked� artery,� to� electrophysiology� to�regulate�irregular�heartbeats.

WellStar�Cobb�Hospital�has�an�electrophysiology�(EP)�lab�enabling�physicians�to�assess�and�treat�patients�with�rapid�or�uncontrolled�heart�rates.�This�includes�inserting�pace-makers�as�well�as�automated�internal�defibrillators.�

WellStar� Douglas� Hospital� has� recently� begun� performing� cardiac� catheterizations,�enabling�countless�patients�to�stay�close�to�home.�

WellStar�Kennestone�offers�a�dedicated�electrophysiology�and�cardiac�catheterization�labs.�WellStar�Kennestone�also�offers�an�adult�cardiac�surgery�program.�These�interven-tions� are� not� possible� without� the� expertise� of� the� cardiologists� and� cardiothoracic�surgeons�working�within�WellStar’s�cardiac�program.�

The� WellStar� Cardiac� Network� includes� WellStar� Cardiovascular� Medicine� (CVM).�WellStar� CVM� provides� comprehensive� cardiac� service� offerings,� proven� expertise� in�preventative�care,�cutting-edge�treatment�of�acute�and�chronic�cardiac�conditions�and�is�dedicated�to�improving�the�quality�of�life�for�its�patients.�They�have�offices�located�in�Acworth,�Austell,�Canton,�Cartersville,�Douglasville,�East�Cobb,�Hiram,�Jasper,�Marietta�and�Woodstock.

Partnering� together� to� offer� enhanced� services� to� our� community,� WellStar� Health�System,�WellStar�CVM�and�Quantum�Radiology�are�now�providing�heart�screenings.�

A�Heart�Screening,�also�known�as�a�CT�Cardiac�Calcium�Score,�is�a�fast�and�non-invasive�CT�Scan�used�to�determine�the�risk�of�Coronary�Artery�Disease.�Using�a�multi-slice�scan,�

Heart Attacks the�heart�screening�can�help�cardiologists�determine�the�participant’s�level�of�risk�for�heart�disease�or� future�cardiac� issues.�The�screening�is�recommended�for�those�who�have�diabetes,�family�history�of�heart�disease,�history�of�smoking�or�tobacco�use,�high�blood�pressure�or�high�cholesterol.�

While� lying� on� the� table,� the� CT� Scanner� will� perform� cross-sectional� images� of� the�heart.�The� images�are� then� reviewed�by�a� radiologist� specialized� in� cardiac� imaging.�The�presence�of�calcium�is�directly�related�to�coronary�atherosclerosis.�A�calcium�score�procedure�cannot�detect�the�degree�or�location�of�specific�blockages�in�the�coronary�vessels;�however,�it�can�assign�you�a�risk�level�of�disease�and�a�risk�level�for�future�car-diac�events�based�on�your�calcium�levels.

The�screenings�are�currently�offered�at�the�WellStar�Imaging�Centers�at�Cobb,�Kennestone�and� Douglas� Hospitals,� WellStar� Kennestone� Imaging� Center� at� East� Cobb� and� the�Paulding�Physicians�Center.�The�screening�takes�less�than�30�minutes�and�requires�no�special�preparation.�The�self-pay�rate�is�$99�for�individuals�and�$149�for�couples�and�a�physician�referral�is�not�required.�The�fee�includes�the�scan�and�the�radiologist�interpre-tation.�For�more�information�or�to�schedule�a�heart�screening,�call�770-956-STAR(7827).�

At� WellStar,� the� circle� of� care� does� not� stop� at� intervention� and� treatment.� Our� car-diac�program�revolves�around�a�continuum�of� care�belief� that� includes� treatment�of�the� “whole� person”� in� addition� to� advanced� clinical� treatment.� The� people� behind�this� belief� are� the� educators,� physicians,� nurses� and� clinicians� treating� our� patients�every�step�of�the�way.�We�offer�a�multi-phase�rehabilitation�program,�with�doctors�and�rehab�professionals�working�together�to�create�a�rehab�plan�especially�for�each�cardiac�patient.�Support�groups�are�available�to�make�sure�that�our�patients�are�taken�care�of�emotionally�and�mentally,�not�just�physically.�

WellStar Cardiac Network includes: WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine; WellStar Cobb Hospital*; WellStar Douglas Hospital*; WellStar Kennestone Hospital *; WellStar Paulding Hospital ; WellStar Windy Hill Hospital; Cardiac Surgery; Cardiac Anesthesia; Vascular Surgery; Cardiac Rehabilitation; Cardiac Wellness; Cardiac Patient Support; Cardiovascular Imaging; WellStar Medical Group; * denotes Accredited Chest Pain Center. For more information or a physician referral, call 770-956-STAR or visit www.wellstar.org.

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OurTown For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE �9

 

By Kim Kornblatt & Frank Reiff of PearTree Interiors

t�PearTree�Interiors�our�motto�is�“the�only�difference� in�ordinary�and� extraordinary� is� that� little�

something�extra”.�Perhaps�all�you�need�are� those� “little� details”� to� make� your�home�“extraordinary”.

We� have� found� that� many� of� our� cus-tomers�need�some�outside�input�to�get�started� in� this� process.� Therefore,� we�are� going� to� give� you,� the� Our� Town�readers� the�opportunity� to� “Ask�Kim�&�Frank”.�Each�month� send�us�any�deco-rating�questions�that�you�just�can’t�seem�

to�figure�out�and�we’ll�try�to�point�you�into�the�right�direction.�The�most� common�challenges�asked�by�our�clients�have�been:�

What is the most inexpensive way to update a room?

1st� -�Paint,�Paint,�Paint!�Color�is�the�backdrop�for�staging�all�of�you�furnishings�and�favorite�things.�With�color�you�can�lighten�or�darken,�warm�or�cool�and�even�expand�or�cozy�up�a�space.�You�can�also�enhance�or�emphasize�the�architecture�of�a�home.�For�example� to�make�crown�molding�pop,� you�can�paint� the�walls� a�deeper�color�than� the� molding� and� the� ceiling� a� lighter� version� of� the� walls.� Another� use� is� to�paint�pieces�of�furniture�to�accent�your�color�scheme.�Remember�not�to�be�afraid�of�using�“bold�colors�because�beige�and�khaki�everywhere�can�become�boring.�If�you�have�an�open�floor�plan,�paint�can�be�used�to�help�define�specific�rooms�or�areas�of�a�large�space.�

2nd�-�Accessorize!�This�can�be�as�simple�as�throwing�a�green�afghan�over�the�back�of�a�plaid�sofa�to�break�up�the�lines,�or�as�involved�as�purchasing�the�perfect�oil�painting�over�the�mantel.�Adding�accessories�can�change�the�total�look�and�feel�of�any�space.�

What can I do to make my home feel “cozy”?

As�designers,�the�first�things�that�come�to�mind�are�lighting�and�candles.�A�small�lamp�strategically�glowing�on�a�table�by�a�corner�chair�is�an�encouragement�to�have�a�cup�of�coffee�or�grab�a�good�book�and�sit�for�a�while.�Candles�not�only�offer�warm�light�in�a�room,�but�they�also�leave�the�perfect�aroma�lingering�in�the�air.�Also,�nothing�is�more�elegant�than�a�candlelit�dinner�party�or�more�romantic�than�a�candlelit�dinner�for�two.�(hint,�hint...�something�to�keep�in�mind�as�Valentines�Day�approaches).�Decorating your home is a fun and exciting way to express yourself. Don’t let your dilemmas discourage you, let us help! We are very interested and looking forward to hearing from you. Email us at [email protected].

 

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el

By Pam Walker

ebruary....the�month�of� romance.�That�word� in� itself�means�different� things� to�different�people.�In�the�travel�industry,�depending�on�your�romantic�thoughts....a�romantic�weekend�could�be�anything�from�a�short�weekend�in�a�mountain�lodge�

in�front�of�a�roaring�fire�to�a�beach�getaway�in�the�Caribbean�or�even�a�short�cruise�to�the�Bahamas.

The�primary�focus�for�a�short�trip�is�the�how�fast�can�you�get�there....flying�or�driving.�We�in�Atlanta�are�very�lucky�as�we�can�reach�many�destinations�quickly.�A�three�hour�flight�from�home�can�get�you�to�Denver�or�the�Caribbean.�A�short�drive�to�Ashville,�N.C.�or�Florida�can�be�an�easy�trip�too.

What�could�be�more�romantic�than�a�day�of�skiing�followed�by�a�romantic�sleigh�ride�and�dinner�beside�a�cozy�fireplace�at�Keystone’s�Resort’s�Ski�Tip�Lodge?��Keystone�is�only�90�miles�west�of�the�Denver�International�Airport�so�if�you�depart�Hartsfield�in�the�early�morning,�you�can�be�on�the�slopes�by�afternoon.

Also�close�by�is�Vail�with�its�wonderful�little�village�and�world�class�hotels�like�the�Four�Seasons�or�Ritz�Carlton�in�Lionshead;�just�a� short� walk� from� the� village.� A� compli-mentary� shuttle� bus� can� get� you� there�and�back�in�case�you�don’t�want�to�walk.�For� a� super� splurge� for� your� significant�other...� and� a� wonderful� Valentine� gift,�stay�at�the�Arrabelle�in�Vail�Square�which�is� reminiscent�of� the�historic� lodges�of�Switzerland�and�the�French�Alps.

For�those�who�prefer� their�romance� on� a� white�sandy� beach,� a� short� non-stop� flight� from� Atlanta�on�weekends�is�the�lovely�islands�of�the�Turks�and�Caicos;�one�of�my�favorite�islands.�The�beaches�here�are�sugar�fine�and�as�white�as�snow.�Nothing�beats�a�sunset�drink�under�a� palapa� on� the� beach� with� the� turquoise� water� lapping�at�your� feet.�Or�try� the�bar�at� the�Grace�Bay�Club�where�the�infinity�edge�pool�makes�the�bar�seem�like�an�endless�counter�that�extends�all�the�way�to�the�sea.

For� a� sybaritic� and� very� romantic� weekend,� try� the� Amanyara� with� its� separate�pavilions�for�each�couple.�Three�walls�of�the�pavilions�retract�so�you�can�welcome�the�outdoors�and�enjoy�your�surroundings.�The�most�romantic�experience�is�dinner�at�the�sunken�table�in�your�pavilion�and�surrounded�by�cushions�for�a�cozy�evening.

If� you� are� a� golf� fanatic,� you� could� also� try� Bermuda� or� the� Bahamas,� keeping� in�mind�that�at�this�time�of�year,�they�can�be�chilly�in�the�evening.�The�cold�fronts�that�affect�the�South,�can�also�go�as�far�as�these�islands.�Even�though�they�are�located�in�the�Gulf�Stream,�day�time�temperatures�can�be�cool�and�breezy�too.�For�Bermuda,�a�perfect�golf�getaway�is�the�Fairmont�Southampton�boasting�the�islands�oldest�private�golf�club.�They�can�also�arrange�to�have�you�play�some�of�the�other�courses�on�the�island.

The�One�and�Only�Ocean�Club�in�Nassau�offers�every�possible�amenity�and�activity�you�can�imagine.....and�all�with�exclusive�privacy�and�blissful�ambience.�Tee�off�on�the�Tom�Weiskopf�designed�course�or�rent�bicycles�to�ride�around�the�island�by�day.�The�Spa�at�this�hotel�is�also�“over�the�top”.

So�if�you�are�looking�for�the�perfect�place�to�go�for�a�wonderful�and�romantic�get-away...and�a�getaway�from�all� this�“lovely”�weather�we�have�been�having.....look�no�further�than�your�favorite�Travel�Counselor....the�best�way�for�you�to�decide�the�per-fect�spot�for�you.

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel consultant. Follow Pam’s blog at www.pamwalkers.blogspot.com.

F

Romantic Weekend Escapes

Vail

on’t let Valentine’s Day slip by without letting your LOVE know how you feel. It doesn’t take a great deal of money, just a little planning and some extra prep time to give him or her a night they will never forget!

If your having a romantic Valentine’s dinner for two*, it helps to create the mood. This can be done with some soft music and a few rose petals. Roses are quite expensive this time of year, but florists sometimes offer discounts on petal or older roses they can’t sell. Also, silk rose petals can be as beauti-ful as real ones and are available in most craft stores.

If you are using the petal in your décor, here are a few ideas:

Create a Centerpiece of Petals: While a bouquet of roses can capture one’s heart, strewn rose petals can certainly play on the heartstrings. The average rose bloom yields about 25 petals and will fill a 4-inch square area on your tabletop. Create this plush pile of petals and add tea-lights for a simple table centerpiece.

Create a Walkway: Scatter rose petals from your threshold to the dining table to make your Valentine feel extra special.

Garnish with Petals: Accent food by placing petals on the rim of your din-ner plates for a professional look at home. In addition to your romantic décor, include a few simple gestures of love. You could create a handmade Valentine card, read an impromptu poem, learn a few French “love” phrases and illuminate every room with candle-light. Most importantly, tell them you love them and you’re glad they are part of your life.

Happy Valentine’s Day!*See our What’s Cookin’ article on Page 30 for some deliciously simple recipes to create a romantic “Valentine Dinner for Two”.

D

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com PAGE 2�

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Networking: A Great Way to Grow Your BusinessBy Scott Flanagan, SAF, LLC

s�a�small�business�owner�of�a�bookkeeping�and�tax�service�in�Dallas,�I�have�many�responsibilities.�We�have�many�clients�to�service,�administra-tive�responsibilities,�and�a�host�of�other�duties�to�perform.�Like�many�

small�businesses,�our�marketing�was�limited�due�to�financial�and�time�restraints.�The�question�became,�“How�can�we�grow�our�business�without�the�resources�that�bigger�businesses�have?”��The�answer�was�quite�simply:��Networking!��Let�me�explain:

I�am�a�member�of�a�networking�group�that�has�approximately�twenty�members.�We�provide�for�each�other�a�“sales�team”.��I�now�have�twenty�people�helping�me�promote�my�business,�and�of�course,� I�am�a�promoter� for�their�businesses�also.� I�enjoy�this�because�many�of�the�members�provide�services�that�also�help�my�clients.�

In� addition� to� promoting� each� other� businesses,� we� also� focus� on� growing� and�learning�together.�Training�is�an�important�part�of�our�weekly�meetings.�Each�week�a� member� “trains”� the� others� with� a� marketing� technique� that� has� benefited� their�particular� business.� � Each� week� I� learn� something� valuable.� � Also,� we� spotlight� a�member’s� business� each� week.� For� example,� when� my� business� was� spotlighted,�members�not�only�provided�referrals,�but�also�gave�me�ideas�about�various�ways�to�expand�my�business.�

As�a�group,�we�also�try�to�do�community�events,�and�I�have�found�it�not�only�reward-ing�for�my�business,�but�a�great�way�to�learn�more�about�my�fellow�members.�Our�group�feels�that�if�you�position�yourself�as�a�resource�provider�for�others�and�do�this�consistently,�then�“what�goes�around�does�come�back�around!”

If you are interested in attending a networking meeting with our group, please email me at [email protected]. You may also visit our group’s website at www.paulding huddle.com.

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Page 22: OTmag_feb11

PAGE 22 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our TownPAGE 22 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

By Mark S. Duffield, D.O.

now�skiing� is�a�very�popular�winter�activity.�Every�year�nearly�15�million�people�ski�in�the�U.S.�alone.�Most�are�under�the�age�of�40�with�60�percent�being�men�and�40�percent�women.��

However,� like�all� sports,� skiing�does�come�with�some� inherent� risks.�Based�on�reports�from�the�ISS�(International�Ski�Symposium),�approximately�two�people�per� 1000� days� skiied� sustain� a� serious� injury� from� snow� skiing.� So� really,� per�

person� involved,� skiiing�has� a� relatively� low�number�of� injuries� for� a� sport� that� is� so�common.�By�comparison,�soccer� injury�statistics�reveal�that� in�a�90�minute�game�two�to�three�players�may�sustain�injury,�showing�an�injury�rate�of�14�percent�for�soccer�vs.�a�low�.05�percent�for�snow�skiing.��

Most�skiing�injuries�are�minor�bruises�and�scrapes.�When�major� injuries�occur,� they�are�typically�caused�from�an�isolated�fall,�usually�due�to�a�

skier’s�loss�of�control,�such�as�going�too�fast�or�skiing�in�an�area�that�is�inappropriate�for�their�ability.�Only�about�ten�percent�of�injuries�

are�due�to�collision�with�other�skiers.��

Head� injuries� account� for� a� very� small� amount� of� inju-ries,�particularly�since�the�evolution�of�the�ski�helmet.�

There�is�strong�evidence�that�ski�helmets�may�pre-vent� and/or� significantly� reduce� the� severity� of�minor� to� moderate� head� trauma.� � So� as� with�

any�sport,�it�is�important�to�use�the�proper�safety�equipment.

Most�major�skiing�injuries�are�either�to�the�knee�(33�per-cent)� or� the� shoulder� (nine� percent).� Interestingly,� those�

percentages�are�opposite�with�snowboarding.�With�technology�advancements� in� equipment� over� the� last� 30-40� years,� particu-

larly�bindings� and�boots,� lower� leg� fractures� and� lacerations�have�significantly�reduced.�However,�the�incidence�of�ligamentous�injuries�

have�increased,�specifically�to�the�ACL�(anterior�cruciate�ligament).��

The�good�news�about�ACL�injuries�is�that�over�the�past�four�to�six�years�they�seem�to�be�on�the�decline.�This�may�be�due�to�the�trend�in�shorter�skis,�brought�on�by�the�advent�of�the�shaped�ski.�It�was�previously�thought�that�the�bindings�were�the�culprit�of�many�ligament�injuries�(ie.�the�binding�didn’t�release�and�the�knee�took�the�brunt�of�the�load,�tearing�the�ligaments).�However,�the�shorter�ski�seems�to�lessen�the�strain�on�the�knee�ligaments,�particularly�with�inadvertent�turns�or�falls.��

When�a�person�does�sustain�a�ligament�injury,�often�they�cannot�continue�to�ski�and�must�be�helped�by�either�a�companion�or�the�ski�patrol�and�taken�to�an�Aid�Station.�Sadly,�the�ski�day�(and�likely�the�trip)�are�over�as�these�injuries�are�not�compatible�with�further�sporting�activities.�When�evaluated�by�an�Orthopaedic�Surgeon,�if�the�diagnosis�is�ACL�injury,�the�discussion�is�typically�centered�on�whether�to�surgically�reconstruct�the�liga-ment�or�use�a�brace�for�definitive�treatment.�Typically,�for�patients�who�are�very�active�and�desire�a�knee�similar�to�their�pre-injury�status,�a�reconstruction�of�the�ligament�is�offered.�Although�considered�a�surgery�with�a�very�predictable�outcome,�it�is�not�neces-sarily�the�best�or�only�option�for�every�patient.�Bracing�can�be�a�good�option�too,�and�is�often�the�option�of�choice�for�patients�willing�to�use�a�brace�on�a�consistent�basis.

Shoulder�injuries�related�to�skiing�typically�come�in�one�of�two�categories:�dislocation�or�fractures.�Dislocations�occur�when�the�forces�applied�across�the�joint�are�so�great�that�the�supporting�structures�are�torn�and�the�bones�are�no�longer�held�in�position.�Such�dislocations�usually�require�immediate�medical�attention�in�order�to�be�“relocated”�and�will�often�later�need�surgical�attention�to�keep�the�shoulder�stable.�

When� fractures� occur,� they� are� usually� of� the� clavicle� (commonly� known� as� the� col-larbone)�or�humerus�(upper�arm�bone).�Generally�speaking,�both�can�be�treated�non-operatively,�though�some�variations�do�require�surgical�attention.

In�conclusion,�snow�skiing�is�truly�a�sport�that�anyone�can�enjoy,�regardless�of�ability�or�age.�It�inspires�one�to�be�in�direct�contact�with�the�outdoor�elements�and�gives�us�the�opportunity�to�see�many�aspects�of�nature�that�we�may�not�ordinarily�experience.�In�general�it�is�also�a�very�safe�sport,�particularly�when�a�skier�recognizes�his�or�her�physical�limitations�and�level�of�skiing�ability.�So�if�you�hit�the�slopes� this� winter,� be� mindful� of� your� safety� and� you’ll� likely� enjoy� an�injury-free�vacation.�

Dr. Mark Duffield is an orthopaedic surgeon at Pinnacle Orthopaedics. Get to Know Pinnacle. Call 770-944-3303 or visit www.pinnacle-ortho.com for a complete list of services, physicians and locations near you.

S

med

ical Avoiding Injuries on Your Ski Vacation

770.222.2699 n [email protected]

Our Town has 4 editions to serve you. Paulding,

West Cobb, Smyrna/Vinings and Gwinnett. Call or email us today

and watch your business grow!

Why Advertise in Our Town?Our Town is the only direct mail community publication that stands out from the rest with beautiful covers of local families in an OVERSIZED format.

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� PAGE 2�

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Page 24: OTmag_feb11

PAGE 24 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our TownPAGE 24 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

Loran� and� Peggy�attend�Grace�Covenant�Presbyterian� Church�in� America,� where�they’ve�been�there�for�the� past� eight� years.�Loran�and�Peggy�con-sider�the�church�fam-ily,� their� own� family.�They’ve� also� made�numerous� mission�trips� to� Mexico� and�Jamaica.

During�their�54�years�together,�Loran�says�Peggy�has� been� a� wonderfully�supportive� wife� and� a�good� manager� of� their�home.� She� is� and� always�has� been� a� great� friend�and� kind� critic� when� he�needed� one.� Loran� says�he� couldn’t� have� been�the� man� he� was� without�her.� Peggy� is� involved� in�

the�women’s�ministry�at�the�church.�Currently,�she�is�the�President-elect�of� the� ‘NWGA�Presbyterian�Women� in� the�Church’.� She�works�with�the�elections� in�Paulding,�and�has� served�on� the�Paulding�Board�of�Elections�both�as� a� member� and� the� Chairman.� She� also� loves�to�knit.

Loran�is�an�avid�book�collector�and�has�thousands�of� books,� most� of� them� about� Christianity,� the�Civil�War,�the�Navy,�and�more!�His�favorite�book�is�the�Bible.�He�is�also�a�Paulding�historian.�If� it�happened� in�his� lifetime,�he�can� tell� you� in� full�detail� about� the� event.� Loran� knows� the� most�interesting�stories.�One�he�told�us�was�the�story�of�his� family’s� radio.�For� years� it�was� the�ONLY�radio� in� New� Hope� so� their� neighbors� would�come� over� to� listen� to� the� different� shows� and�historical� events� like� the� Grand� Old� Opry� and�Joe�Lewis’�fight.�He�still�has�the�radio,�and�it’s�in�beautiful�condition.

Loran�is�very�dedicated�to�the�Paulding�commu-nity.�He�is�the�Chairman�of�the�Paulding�WellStar�Hospital� Authority,� serves� on� the� Paulding�WellStar�Regional�Health�Board,�an�Elder� in�his�church,�a�Gideon�and�a�member�of�the�Lion’s�Club;�just�to�name�a�few.�It’s�no�surprise�why�Loran�was�named�Paulding�County’s�Citizen�of�the�Year�in�2006.��

Loran� and� Peggy� are� very� young� at�heart,� and� they� both� believe� that� just�because� you� get� older,� doesn’t� mean�you�have� to�act�older.�Neither�one�of�them� ever� want� to� become� “old� fud-die�duddies.”�They�are�very�happy�and�content� with� their� life� and� feel� that�God�has�fully�and�completely�blessed�them�through�everything�they’ve�done�and�everyone�they’ve�met.�

It�is�so�sweet�to�see�the�love�and�admi-ration�they�have�for�each�other.�They�

are�wonderful�examples� to� follow,�and�we�thank�them�for�being�on�our�cover�and�welcoming�us�so�sweetly�into�their�home.�They�made�us�feel�like�family,�and�they�will�forever�hold�a�very�special�place�in�our�heart.�They�are�a�blessing�to�this�community,�and�we�thank�God�for�allowing�them�to�come�into�our�lives.�

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r Continued from page 5. SLAVA SLAVIKlava�and�Sara�Slavik�are�originally�from�Brno,�in�the�Czech�Republic.�They�have�been�happily�married�for�14�years�and�

have� two�children,�Katie� and� John.� In�May�of�2004,�they�moved�their�family�to�Paulding�County�wanting�new�challenges�and�better�opportunities�for�their�children.�It�was�here�that�Slava�and�Sara�realized�their�dream�by�opening�their�own�family�and�wedding�por-trait�studio�–�Slava�Slavik�Photography.

Prior� to� discovering� his� passion� for� pho-tography,� Slava� was� the� CEO� for� a� digital�photography� software� company� in� Central�Europe.�Sara�worked�in�the�graphic�design�industry� creating� cards� and� brochures,�doing�magazine�and�book�layout,�and�creative�ad�design.�Together,�they�began�doing�wedding�portraits�for�family�and�friends.�It�brought�them�great�joy�and�it�was�then�they�discovered�their�desire�to�have�their�own�studio.

After�coming�to�the�United�States,�Slava�was�able�to�work�with�some�of�the�fin-est�photographers�in�Georgia.��He�developed�great�technical�skills,�and�along�with�his�own�personal�warmth�and�creative�eye,�he�is�able�to�capture�people�in�unique�and�creative�ways.�

Today,�Slava�Slavik�Photography�is�dedicated�to�giving�you�beautiful�portraits�and�a�memorable�experience.�They�specialize�in�romantic�wedding�photogra-

phy�and�contemporary� indoor� and�outdoor�portraits�of� engaged�couples,� families,�children�newborns�and�executives.�Slava�and�Sara�draw�on�their�European�heritage�to�offer�their�clients�a�different�approach�that�combines�a�clean�fresh�look�with�tradi-tional�Southern�attitude.�

To�see� their�work,�visit� their�website�www.slava-slavik.com�or�contact� them�at�404-323-1153.

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE 25Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� PAGE 25

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Valentine’s�Day�is�many�things�to�different�people-�a�chance� to� start�new�relationships,� rekindle�old�ones,�or�remind�that�special�someone�how�won-derful�they�really�are.�Others�feel�it�is�just�another�“Hallmark”�holiday�where�they�are�expected�to�do�something� for� unknown� reasons.� Regardless� of�your� hopes,� expectations,� or� reservations� about�

Valentine’s� Day,� chocolate� has� long� been� a� favorite� gift�for�lovers.

Since� the� days� of� the� Aztecs,� chocolate� has� been� used�as�a�gift.�Today�a�box�of�luxurious�quality�chocolate�says�a� thousand� “thank� yous”,� “good� luck”,� or� “I� love� you”.�Chocolate� can�be�given�as� a�way�of� saying� “congratula-tions”,� “I� am� sorry”� or� “get� well� soon”.� On� Valentine’s�Day� chocolate� clearly� says� “I� LOVE� YOU!”� Chocolate� is�more�than�food,�it�not�only�fills�your�belly�but�also�makes�you� feel� SO� good.� Elaine� Sherman� wrote� “Chocolate�is� heavenly,� mellow,� sensual,� deep,� dark,� sumptuous,�gratifying,� potent,� dense,� creamy,� seductive,� suggestive,�rich,� excessive,� silky,� smooth,� luxurious,� and� celestial.�Chocolate�is�downfall,�happiness,�pleasure,�love,�ecstasy,�fantasy� ...� chocolate� makes� us� wicked,� guilty,� sinful,�healthy,�chic,�and�happy.”�What�more�could�you�want�to�say�to�your�paramour�on�Valentine’s�Day?�Even�the�scien-tific�name�for�the�tree�from�which�chocolate�is�derived,�Theobroma�cacao,� translated� from�Greek,�means� “food�of�the�gods”.

Why� does� chocolate� evoke� so� many� feelings� and� emo-tions� for� us?� Chocolate� has� long� been� associated� with�

seas

onal

passion,� romance�and� love.�This�association�may�go�all�the� way� back� to� the� Aztecs.� They� believed� chocolate�was� a� source� of� spiritual� wisdom,� incredible� energy�and�elevated� sexual�power.�Chocolate�was�widely�used�as�a�nuptial� aid�and�was�widely� served�at�wedding�cer-emonies.�The�Aztecs�did�not�know�chocolate� as�we�do�today;�they�consumed�cocoa�as�a�drink.�Reports�indicate�that� the� Emperor� Montezuma� consumed� large� quanti-ties� of� the� drink� every� day� and� always� fortified� himself�with�a�cup�before�entertaining�his�harem.�The�explorer�Cortes�reported�to�Carlos�I�of�Spain�that�chocolate�is�“...�the� divine� drink� which� builds� up� resistance� and� fights�fatigue.� A� cup� of� this� precious� drink� enables� a� man� to�walk� for� a� whole� day� without� food.”� From� the� earliest�times,� chocolate� was� considered� a� substance� of� power�and�a�source�of�vitality.

Chocolate�has�been�a�subject�of�study�since�the�first�ship-ment�from�Veracruz�arrived�in�Spain�in�1585.�But�modern�science�has�made�some�interesting�findings�that�may�help�explain�our�lust�for�quality�chocolate.�Chocolate�contains�organic�substances�known�as�alkaloids.�The�most�impor-tant�of�these�substances�is�theobromine,�which�works�as�a�stimulant�to�the�kidneys.�Stimulants�in�chocolate�also�affect�the�central�nervous�system,�with�effects�similar�to�caffeine,�which�is�also�present�in�chocolate.�A�chocolate�bar�may�contain�as�much�as�200�mg�of�theobromine,�but�only� about� 25� mg� of� caffeine.� Another� important� sub-stance� found� in� chocolate� is� phenyl� ethylamine,� which�is� part� of� a� group� of� chemicals� known� as� endorphins.�Endorphins�have�an�effect�similar�to�amphetamines�and�

are�found�naturally�in�the�human�body.�When�endorphins� are� released�into� the� bloodstream,� the� mood� is� lifted� and� feelings�of�positive�energy�are�reached.�The�sensation�known�as�“runners� high”� is� caused� by� endorphins� released� dur-ing�exercise.�Phenyl�ethylamine�levels�in�the�brain�have�also�been�linked�to�“falling�in�love”.�One�more�chemical�found�in�chocolate�is�serotonin.��Serotonin�is�known�for�its�calming�properties.�The�presence�of�these�chemicals�may�explain�the�multitude�of�feelings�chocolate�evokes.

Critics�would�say�that�the�benefits�of�eating�chocolate�are�small�when�compared�to�the�sugar�and�fat�contained�in�a�chocolate�bar.�The�best�chocolate,�dark�chocolate�with�high�cacao�butter�content�has�no�added�fat,�as�well�as�a�high�percentage�of�cacao�solids�and�correspondingly�less�sugar.� Although� chocolate� will� never� be� considered� a�health�food�based�on�its�nutritional�value,�it�is�still�good�for�you!�Good�for�your�heart�and�soul-anything�that�helps�relieve�stress�and�makes�you�feel�so�good�must�be.

Receiving� a� nicely� wrapped� box� of� chocolates� causes� a�sense� of� anticipation.� The� pleasure� of� unwrapping� the�box,�the�sensual�smell,�lifting�the�soft�seductive�papers,�the�look�of�the�smooth�dark�chocolates.�When�it� finally�passes�your� lips�and�starts� to� instantly�melt� filling�your�mouth�with�exquisite�pleasure.�The�taste�and�smell�flood�your�senses�with�overwhelming�ecstasy.�Eating�it�slowly,�taking�time�to�enjoy�and�savor�every�bit.�What�better�way�to�start�off�an�evening�of�love?

Why Chocolate for Valentine’s Day?

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PAGE 26 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our TownPAGE 26 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

he� new� 2011� Georgia� Sport� Fishing�Regulations�are�now�available.�The�Georgia�Department� of� Natural� Resources,� Wildlife�

Resources� Division� recently� distributed� printed�versions� of� the� regulations� to� all� Division� offices�and�facilities,�a�number�of�State�Parks�and�fishing�license� retailers� statewide.� An� online� version� of�the� new� regulations� is� available� at� www.gofish-

georgia.com.�WRD�advises�new�and�experienced�anglers�alike�to�familiar-ize�themselves�with�the�Georgia�Sport�Fishing�Regulations�before� casting� a� line.� “Georgia� offers� so� many� different�fishing�opportunities�from�the�coast�to�the�mountains�and�this�booklet�is�designed�to�help�anglers�find�great�places�to� fish�and�to�educate� them�on�Georgia’s� fishing�regula-tions,”�explains�WRD�Chief�of�Fisheries�Management�John�Biagi.�“It�contains�information�that�should�answer�all�basic�questions�for�anglers.”

The�guide�provides�helpful� information,� including� color�fish�identification�charts�for�both�freshwater�and�saltwater�fish,� license� purchasing� information,� contact� informa-tion�for�WRD�fisheries�management�offices�and�WRD�law�enforcement� offices,� trout� stream� listings,� public� fishing�area� information,� state� record� fish� listings� and�complete�fishing�regulations�for�Georgia.

The� Board� of� Natural� Resources� sets� Georgia’s� fishing�regulations� based� on� recommendations� made� by� the�Department’s� fisheries� biologists� and� field� personnel�while�the�Georgia�General�Assembly�sets�the�laws�related�to� fishing.�For�more� information�about�Georgia’s� fishing�

outd

oor

Tregulations�or�for�information�about�where�and�when�to�go� fishing,� visit� www.gofishgeorgia.com� or� contact� the�nearest�WRD�fisheries�management�office.

“GO FISH EDUCATION CENTER”�In�October�of� last� year,� former�Governor�Sonny�Perdue,�along� with� local� community� leaders,� cut� the� celebratory�ribbon�at�the�official�dedication�of�the�Go�Fish�Education�Center�in�Perry.�Developed�as�part�of�the�Go�Fish�Georgia�Initiative,� the�Center�will�promote�better�water� steward-ship�and�increased�fishing�participation�around�the�state.�“The�Go�Fish�Georgia� Initiative�will�allow�us� to� improve�our� fishing� resources�and�boat� access,�drawing�not�only�more� tourists� but� also� major� fishing� tournaments� that�will� have� a� positive� economic� impact� in� communities�across� Georgia,”� said� former� Governor� Perdue.� “It� also�promotes�conservation�and�encourages�families�to�spend�time�together�outdoors,�making�memories�that�will�last�a�lifetime.”�The�Go�Fish�Education�Center�features�an�interactive�and�educational� journey� through� Georgia’s� diverse� water-sheds.�It�also�serves�as�a�great�resource�of�fishing�informa-tion�for�any�level�of�angler,�with�tips�on�where�to�go,�what�gear�to�use�and�when�to� fish.�With�76�species�of� fish�on�display�in�tanks�and�ponds,�the�Center�offers�an�unparal-leled�opportunity�to�learn�about�Georgia’s�aquatic�wildlife�and� habitats.� Boating� and� fishing� simulators� let� visitors�test� their� skills� on� the� water.� And� a� state-of-the-art� fish�hatchery�offers�a�look�at�the�science�of�fisheries�manage-ment.�The�hatchery�will�expand�research�and�increase�fish�

production�to�improve�the�quality�of�fishing�in�Georgia.��The�Center�also�will�offer�educational�programs�to�school�systems�and�to� the�public,� including�kids� fishing�events,�on-site�classroom�programs�and�teacher�development�ses-sions.� Classroom� and� educational� programs� are� aligned�with�the�Georgia�Performance�Standards.�The�Go�Fish�Georgia� Initiative� is� a�$30�million� initiative�that� leverages� $19� million� in� state� bond� financing� with�private�donations�and� financial� support� from� local� com-munities.� It� includes�development�and�improvements�of�mega-ramps�and�other�access�areas�that�improve�the�qual-ity�of�fishing�throughout�Georgia�and�increases�participa-tion�in�fishing�through�active�promotion�and�marketing�of�Georgia’s�exceptional�fishing�resources.�Construction�of�the�Center�began�in�2008�and�was�com-pleted�in�September�2010.�The�Go�Fish�Education�Center�is�part�of� the�Georgia�Department�of�Natural�Resources’�Wildlife� Resources� Division� (Fisheries� Management�Section).� The� Center� is� located� next� to� the� Georgia�National� Fairgrounds� in� Perry.� The� Center’s� hours� are�Friday-Saturday�(9�a.m.-5�p.m.);�Sundays�(1�p.m.-5�p.m.).�Fees�are�as� follows:�Adults� -�$5,�Seniors�65�and�up�-�$4,�Children�3-12�-�$3;�Children�2�and�under�-�free.�For�more�information,�visit�www.gofisheducationcenter.com�or�call�(478)�988-7187.

Contributed by Melissa Cummings, the Communications/Outreach Specialist at the Georgia DNR, Wildlife Resources Division.

By Melissa Cummings

Carrollton, GA

Call for FREE Attic Inspection

770-301-5270

GEORGIA’S 2011 FISHING

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PAGE 2� For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our Town

So far 2011 has been quite the experience.

e� had� an� amazing� winter� blizzard� that� dumped� 4-6� inches� of� snow.�That�was� followed�by�2�or�more� inches�of� ice� and� sleet�which� shut�down�schools�and�many�businesses� for� the�week.�On�the�plus�side,�

most�folks�did�not�loose�power,�which�would�have�made�the�week�unbearable.�But,� the�kids�had�a�blast�and�didn’t�complain�one�bit.�By�Thursday,�we�were�definitely�ready�for�the�snow�to�go.

Also,�we�met�the�most�amazing�couple,�Petty�and�Loran�Wills�who�graciously�agreed�to�be�on�our�February�cover.�We�think�you�will�really�enjoy�their�story.�Unfortunately�we�don’t�have�enough�space�in�our�magazine�to�list�all�the�rea-sons� for� how� wonderful� they� are.� We� feel� like� we’ve� know� them� our� whole�lives�and�we�received�such�a�blessing�meeting�them.�We�truly�appreciate�Donna�Leonard�for�“turning�them�in.”

Next,� the�Paulding�Chamber�hosted� their�50th�Anniversary�Celebration,�with�keynote�speaker�Newt�Gingrich.�We�can�tell�you�that�exciting�things�are�hap-pening�in�Paulding.�Paulding�is�now�the�first�county� in�Georgia�to�be�named�a� “Certified� County� of� Ethics”.� Also,� CNN� and� Money� Magazine� have� placed�Paulding�County�in�the�top�20�of�its�“Best�Places�to�Live”�in�the�United�States.�

Commission�Chairman,�David�A.�Austin�says,�“Paulding�County�is�strategically�posi-tioned�to�become�the�next�great�industrial�and�commercial�suburban�county�in�metro�Atlanta.� With� WellStar� Health� System’s� recent� announcement� to� build� it’s� newest,�states-of-the-art� LEED� Silver� Certified� Hospital� building,� along� with� the� Paulding�Northwest� Atlanta� Airport’s� new� 23,000� square� foot� terminal� building,� Paulding� is�rapidly� transitioning� from� a� bedroom� community� into� a� burgeoning� business� and�industrial�hub.”�

We�are�really�looking�forward�to�see�what�God�has�in�store�for�us�next.

For�all�of�February�and�for�this�upcoming�Valentine’s�Day,�we�pray�that�you�and�your�family�are�richly�blessed.�February�is�HEART�MONTH,�so�make�sure�you�take�some�time�this�month�to�tell�those�special�people�that�you�love�them.

Jules and Teresa 

PAGE 2� For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

from

the

edi

tors

Available for Adoption: MISHA (DOB ~12/18/2008) is a lovely female lynx point Siamese mix with ex-pressive blue eyes who we rescued from a high kill shelter in North Georgia. MISHA is a very attentive, inquisitive, and play-ful girl who will provide her new family with many, many years of love and com-panionship. She is an excellent candidate to become your next lap kitty! MISHA is spayed, up-to-date with vaccines, nega-tive for Feline AIDS/Leukemia/Heartworm, microchipped, dewormed, has received flea and ear mite preventative, and is eli-gible to receive at least 30 days of prepaid pet health insurance at the time of adoption. MISHA’s adoption fee is $125.00.

To see all our cats available for adoption, please visit www.fancyfelinerescue.org; then call, 678-522-2152, or email us, [email protected], to schedule an appointment to meet your new family member!

Fancy Feline Rescue of the South is a non-profit, no-kill rescue organization dedi-cated to individual attention and excellent care to homeless cats, working hard to find them good homes.

Send us a Photo of Your Precious Pet!

Email as “Pet of the Month” with Short Bio to

[email protected]

Become an Our Town Fan on !

Misha

Ravioli is a 5 year old mixed male kitty that we adopted from PauldingAnimal Shelter in October 2010. We immediately fell in-love with him. We could not have gotten a better pet. He is funny, lovable; but mostly sleepy.

We encourage everyone to visit the Shelter before purchasing a pet else-where. There are many great pets who need homes.

W

Bruno is a four year old Shorkie that thoroughly enjoyed playing outside during the snow day. His favorite part: eating the snow.

pets o

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Ravioli

Bruno

Honey-do List?l Home Repairs l Full-Service Electrical l Gutters Cleanedl Anything Your Honey Won’t Do!

Call Mike @770-616-404825 YearsExperience

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� PAGE 29

our�pet�is�a�member�of�the�family,�and�he�deserves�to�be�remembered�on�Valentine’s�Day.� Sometimes� our� pets� seem� like� the�

only� ones� who� understand� us.� On� special� holi-days,�don’t�forget�their�contribution;�include�them�in�the�festivities�and�remember�them�when�the�time�comes�for�gift�giving.�After�all,�human�partners�may�come�and�go,�but�your�furry�or�feathery�companions�are�always�there�for�you.

Consider Your Pet’s Personality When Buying a GiftYou�know�your�pet�has�a�unique�personality,�and�it’s�also�important�to�remember�that�he�has�emotions,�fears,�and�routines,�too.�Some�pets�are�very�physically�active,�some�are�vain,� some� like� to�be� the� life�of� the�party,� and�oth-ers�enjoy�a�good�puzzle.�With�a�little�thought�and�some�

Ypet

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Hiram Animal HospitalEstablished 1985

Full Service Medical & Pet Care FacilityY Emergencies acceptedY Laser Surgery and therapyY Radiology and ultrasound

Y Senior citizen discountY Multiple pet discountY Boarding indoor/outdoorY Professional grooming

770-439-1117David Carpenter, DVM l Wendy Meeker, DVM

Chris Johnson, DVM

1019 Douglasville Hwy., Hiram l 1 mile S. of Walmart on Hwy. 92Open Daily 7 am, Sat. 8am-12pm l www.hiramanimalhospital.com

research,�you’ll�know�the�type�of�products�your�pet�will�appreciate,�and�have�an�idea�where�to�get�the�best�deal�on�them.

Internet�sites�as�well�as�the�large�pet�supply�outlets�have�made� these� products� readily� available,� and� you� don’t�have�to�search�very�far�to�find�impressive�product�offer-ings.

Explore the World of Pet Gifts this Valentine’s DayInstead�of�the�usual�chew�toy�or�catnip�mouse,�explore�some�of� the�new�and� interesting�products�available� for�your� pets.� From� designer� outfits� to� gourmet� biscuits,�it’s�a�whole�new�world�when�it�comes�to�pet�products.�You�may�not�be�interested�in�the�extravagance�of�a�dog�stroller�that�keeps�Fifi’s�feet�dry�when�she�takes�an�excur-sion�through�the�park,�or�a�cat�enclosure�that�will�allow�you�to�take�kitty�along�with�you�on�your�dog’s�walk,�but�self-cleaning�litter�boxes,�GPS�tracking�chips,�and�herbal�essences�that�are�designed�to�be�used�like�aromatherapy�might�just�fit�the�bill�when�it�comes�to�remembering�your�pet�on�Valentine’s�Day.

Give Your Pet the Gift of Health and Safety on Valentine’s DayWhile�you�are�looking�for�ways�to�thank�your�pet�for�all�of� the� things� he� does� for� you,� don’t� forget� to� educate�

yourself� about� his� needs.� Are� his� inoculations� current?�Does� he� have� pet� insurance?� In� a� health� emergency,�would�you�know�what�to�do�until�help�arrives?�Many�pets�die�needlessly�every�year�as�a�result�of�ingesting�human�foods� that�are�poisonous� to� them.�Do�you�know�about�the�common�foods�that�could�hurt�or�kill�your�pet?

Being� able� to� answer� yes� to� these� questions� may� save�your�pet’s�life�one�day,�so�when�you�are�choosing�a�gift,�maybe�a�good�gift�would�be�a�trip�to�the�vet,�or�a�book�on�emergency�pet�care.

When�you�are�choosing�that�perfect�card�for�your�spouse�or�a�funny�gift�for�a�co-worker,�remember�the�one�who�waits� for� you� no� matter� how� late� you� are,� and� is� glad�to�see�you�every�time�you�walk�through�the�door.�Make�Valentine’s�Day�the�day�you�reward�your�pet� for�all� the�things�he�or�she�does�for�you�every�day.

 

678.594.0041 l DreamLandPetCremation.com

How Will YouCelebrateyour Pet’sLife?

You remember the day you brought him home. He stole your heart and you gave him yours. We understand your loss.

Call us or visit our websitefor your FREEGuide To Planning Ahead

GIVE A PET A LOVING HOMESupport Your Local

Paulding Humane Society

Open Daily Noon to 5 pm(Closed Wednesdays)

pauldinghumane.org770-445-1511

For more information or directions to the shelter, please visit us at

Please Spay & Neuter Your Pets

Lila Blue

FEBRUARYCROSSWORD SOLUTION

Give a Valentine Reward for the Pet Who Loves You Best

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ake�pleasure�in�simplicity�this�Valentine’s�Day�by�creating�an�easy�and�elegant�dinner� for� two.�Scatter�a�rose�petal�path�leading�to�a�dining�table�lush�with�aphrodisiac�fare.�Romance�your�par-

amour�with�a�gesture�from�the�heart,�such�as�a�line�of�poetry�during�dessert.�It’s�as�simple�as�that.

Asparagus with Light Raspberry Sauce -� Try� this� easy� and� elegant�recipe�and�add�a�splash�of�color�to�your�plate.�

1�lb.�asparagus�spears,�washed� 3�tbsp�fresh�lemon�juice1�cup�fresh�raspberries� � 1/4�tsp�salt1/4�cup�olive�oil� � � 1/8�tsp�white�pepper

Preheat�oven�to�450F.�Trim�about�½”�off�bottom�end�of�asparagus�and�place�in�a�9�x�13�baking�dish.�Using�the�back�of�a�spoon,�force�raspberries�through�a�sieve�over�a�bowl�to�strain�juice�from�seeds.�Add�oil,�lemon�juice,�salt,�and�pepper�to�raspberry�juice�and�whisk�until�combined.�Pour�mixture�over�asparagus�spears�and�turn�spears�to� coat.� Cook� for� 8-10� minutes� until� spears� are� roasted.� Remove� from� heat� and�arrange�on�a�platter.�Pour�Raspberry�Sauce�over�asparagus�and�serve�warm.

Chicken, Artichoke, and Pistachio Paupiettes�-�This�chicken�roulade�is�a�great�gourmet�main�dish,�and�you�don’t�have�to�be�a�chef�to�prepare�it.�

4�boneless,�skinless�chicken�breasts�� 1/2�cup�ground�pistachio�nuts2�tbsp�olive�oil� � � � 1�tbsp�fresh�lemon�juice1�cup�canned�marinated�artichoke�hearts� 1/2�tsp�salt1�clove�garlic,�minced�� � � 1/4�tsp�pepper1/2�cup�fresh�grated�Parmesan� � 12�wooden�picks,�soaked�in�water�1�cup�cooked�instant�couscous,�unseasoned

Preheat� oven� to� 350F.� Grease� baking� sheet� olive� oil.� Pound� chicken� breast� to� ¼”�thickness.�Rub�remaining�olive�oil,�1/2�tsp�salt�and�1/2�tsp�pepper�on�chicken�breasts.�Finely�chop�the�artichoke�hearts,�then�mix�together�with�garlic,�Parmesan,�couscous,�pistachios,�lemon�juice,�and,�oil�until�combined.�Mound�1/2�cup�artichoke�mixture�along�center,�on�underside�of�chicken�breast.�Wrap�breast�around�mixture�by�pulling�edges�from�long�sides�of�breast�up�over�mixture.�Overlap�edges�of�breast�on�top�of�mixture�and�insert�a�wooden�pick�to�secure�edges�closed.�Place�chicken,�wooden�pick�side�down,�on�prepared�baking�sheet.�Cook�40�minutes�until�chicken�center� is�no�longer�pink.�Remove�from�heat�and�arrange�on�platter�or�individual�plates.

Red Passion Salad�-�Alize�Passion�Fruit�Liqeur�is�the�secret�to�making�this�out�of�this�world�salad.2�tbsp�Alize�passion�fruit�liqueur� 1/8�tsp.�pepper3�tbsp�olive�oil� � � 1�small�head�red�leaf�lettuce,�washed1�tbsp�balsamic�vinegar� � 2�hearts�of�palm�stalks�1/8�tsp.�salt� � � 2�tbsp�pomegranate�seeds

Whisk�together�liqueur,�oil,�vinegar,�salt�and�pepper�in�a�small�bowl.�Tear�lettuce�into�bite-size�pieces�and�place�in�a�large�bowl.�Cut�hearts�of�palm�stalks�into�½”�slices�and�add�to�lettuce.�Pour�dressing�over�ingredients�and�toss�to�coat.�Divide�salad�between�2�serving�plates.�Sprinkle�pomegranate�seeds�on�top�and�serve.Note:Hearts�of�palm�are�velvety�white�stalks�and�are�usually�canned�and�packed�in�brine.�They�be�found�in�the�canned�vegetable�section,�typically�next�to�the�artichokes,�of�your�local�grocery�store.

Chocolate Espresso Mousse�-�Rich�chocolate�dessert�to�spoil�your�sweetie.

3�oz.�unsweetened�baking�chocolate� 1/2�Cup�heavy�cream5�Tbsp�sugar� � � � 1/2�Tsp.�instant�espresso�powder2�eggs,�pasteurized� � � 1�Tbsp�Kahlua

Melt�chocolate�in�top�of�double�boiler,�stirring�constantly.�Cool�8�minutes.�Beat�sugar�and�eggs�in�medium�bowl�until�thick�and�pale�yellow.�Beat�in�melted�chocolate.�Add�cream�and�beat�until� cream�thickens.�Dissolve�espresso�powder� in�Kahlua�and�stir�until�blended.�Pour�chocolate�mixture�into�2�to�4�stemmed�glasses.�Refrigerate�uncov-ered�until�set;�about�3�hours.�Place�glass�on�individual�plates�and�serve�cool.�Store�covered�in�plastic�wrap�for�up�to�4�days.

Across1.�Daisylike�bloom6.�Clinker9.�Treasure�map�����distances14.�Flat15.�Adam’s�love16.�Absurd17.�Love’s�archer18.�Clinch,�with�“up”19.�Baffled20.�Expresses23.�Opening�time,�maybe24.�Artificial25.�“Chicago”�lyricist28.�Follow29.�“Much�___�About�Nothing”30.�Prayer�book32.�Sealskin�wearer,�maybe34.�“Empedocles�on�___”��������(Matthew�Arnold�poem)35.�Velveeta41.�2:00�or�3:0042.�Stream43.�Holds�high47.�“A�Nightmare�on�___�Street”48.�When�it’s�broken,�that’s�good51.�“This�means�___!”52.�Hair�dressing54.�Commanded55.�Press�platforms58.�“M*A*S*H”�extra60.�Deception61.�Any�Time62.�Cherry�alternative63.�Australian�runner64.�Bridget�Fonda,�to�Jane65.�“Green�___”66.�“Sure”67.�Injured,�in�a�way

Down1.�Climb2.�Kind�of�apartment3.�Recording4.�A-list5.�Change6.�Hopeful7.�Eye�center8.�Animal’s�double�chin9.�Italian�square10.�A�chip,�maybe11.�Song�holder12.�Charlotte-to-Raleigh�dir.13.�Caribbean,�e.g.21.�Netting�in�Spanish22.�“___�alive!”26.�Uncle�___27.�Highlands�hillside29.�A�pint,�maybe31.�Onion�relative32.�“God’s�Little�___”33.�P.I.,�e.g.35.�“That�was�a�close�one!”36.�Santa�___,�Calif.37.�Front�cowboy38.�Uncover39.�People�person40.�Alter,�in�a�way44.�Ages45.�Back-to-work�time:�Abbr.46.�_____�Face48.�Religious�sect,�India49.�Prove�in�conflict50.�Tend�to,�as�a�bad�lawn53.�Cartoon�art54.�It�holds�water56.�Houston�university57.�Wilber�cry58.�“Dilbert”�cartoonist��������Scott�Adams�has�one:�Abbr.59.�Common�Market�inits.

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