OTmag_dec11

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE �PRESORTED STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT #2397

TAMPA, FL

Hiram s Dallas s Cedarcrest s New HopeOur Town

VISIT US ONLINE AT OURTOWNFAMILY.COM

Happy New Year!December 2011

MerryChristmas!

The Paulding Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

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

Our Gift to YouDuring December

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770.693.PURE (7873)For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

We wish you a Merry Christmas and blessings for a Happy New Year! Thank you for making our first year a success.

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

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...........................................................5, 24 Health & Fitness: New Year’s Resolutions........................6 Family Focus: Tips For Improving Children’s Sleep..........8 Calendar of Events..................................................11, 15, 22Relationships: It’s the Holidays...Time to Relax?...........12 Medical: Winter Without Injuries..................................17 Home Improvement: Stop Winter Fires.........................18 Finance: Frugal Tips at Christmas................................20 Home & Design: 3 Steps to a Larger Home..................21 Feature Photographer: Elizabeth Williams....................24 Community: Paulding Christmas/Hope.......................25 Travel: 5 Reasons to Use a Professional.........................26 Seasonal: College Bowl Football Schedule....................28 Gardening: Winter Wonderland....................................29 Seasonal: Christmas Holiday Trivia...............................30Letter from the Editors...................................................32 Pets: Winter Grooming...................................................33 December Crossword.....................................................34What’s Cookin’: Peppermint Treats..............................34

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Follow us on

Leisa�Bailey,�Ph.�D.L.�Bharain

Jerry�CliffordMary�B.�Hammock,�MSN,�CPNP

Michelle�JonesKeith�Lamberson,�M.D.

Rebecca�NealPrecious�White

Our�Town�Media�Group,�Inc.

Elizabeth�WilliamsLiz�Williams�Photography�

s�we�celebrate�the�birth�of�our�Savior�this�month�we�should�remember�that,�during�this�busy�time�of�year,�we�need�to�take�necessary�precautions�at�home�and�on�the�road�to�BE�SAFE.�Protecting�you�and�your�family�is�very�important�

to�the�four�Paulding�County�Firefighters�we�are�proud�to�feature�on�our�cover�this�month.��Brian CowanBrian�has�lived�in�Paulding�for�15�years.�He�and�his�wife,�Sherry,�have�been�married�for�16�years,�and�have�two�chil-dren,�daughter�Taylor�and�son�Wil.

Brian� has� always� had� a� strong� desire� to� help� people.�Shortly� after� 9/11� he� looked� into� becoming� a� volunteer�fireman�with�Paulding.�Halfway� through� the�process,�he�knew�this�was�what�he�was�meant�to�do.�He�went�through�EMT�and�rookie�fire�training.�His�wife�shared�with�us�that��while�in�rookie�school,�he�was�the�top�recruit�of�his�class.�Then�in�2002�when�he�applied�as�a�full-time�firefighter,�he�was�hired�the�first�time�around�with�the�PCFD.

Like�most�firemen,�Brian�has�some�really�great�and�really�painful�stories.�The�night�of�the�flood�in�2009�really�stands�out�for�him�because�he�says,�“that�shift�was�liter-ally�non-stop.�It’s�hard�to�describe�the�conditions�and�what�we�did�that�night.�It�was�very�chaotic�and�taxing�on�our�resources,�but�everyone�did�what�was�needed.”�That�night�was�difficult,�but�through�the�efforts�of�men�like�Brian�and�his�partner�Brandon�Maple,�there�were�no�lives�lost.�Brain�is�especially�proud�of�working�with�a�partner�like�Brandon,�who�is�currently�serving�on�active�duty�with�the�United�States�Marine�Corp.

Ronnie OrrRonnie�is�originally�from�Austell�and�has�lived�in�Paulding�for�16�years.�He�and�his�wife�Jennifer�have�been�married�10�years�and�they�have�one�son,�Colton�age�6.

While�Ronnie�was�growing�up,�he�saw�firefighters�as�men�of�adventure.�As�he�got�older,�he�knew�he�enjoyed�help-ing�people�and�then�began�to�see�that�being�a�firefighter�would� be� a� career� option� for� him.� He� started� out� with�EMT�training.�During�his�training�and�work�on�an�ambu-lance,�he�worked�as� a� volunteer� fireman�with�Paulding.�Then�in�1996�he�was�hired�on�with�the�PCFD.

Some� of� the� experiences� are� wonderful,� but� many� more� are� difficult� to� handle.�Ronnie� credits� his� relationship� with� Jesus� Christ� as� his� only� way� of� being� able� to�handle�difficult�situations.�He�always�prays�on�the�way�to�every�call,�and�has�faith�that�God�will�give�him�exactly�what�he�needs�to�get�through�it.

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Read more about our cover on page 24

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

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

By L. Bharain

s�we�ring�in�the�New�Year,�we�make�prom-ises� of� resolutions�

which�are�usually�impossible�to�keep.�We�expect�to�accom-plish�everything�we�couldn’t�in� the� previous� year,� and�resolve� to� fulfill� all� of� our�goals� in�365�days.�Making� a�list� of� resolutions� that� will�start� off� the� New� Year� on�a� positive� note� rather� than�ones�that�will�discourage�us�from�the�start,�will�make�for�a�happier�and�healthier�new�

you.�Resolutions�don’t�have�to�con-sist� of� monumental� life� altering�things�you�have�to�tackle,�and�they�don’t� have� to� have� a� “success� or�fail”� result.� Making� small� changes,�at�your�own�pace,�can�have�a�much�greater�impact�on�your�life.�

If� one� of� your� resolutions� is� to� lose� weight,� start�by� throwing� out� those� words.� Instead,� resolve� to� be�healthier� by� adding� exercise� to� your� regimen,� as� well�as� tasty� but� good-for-you� treats.� Eating� healthy� is� good�for� the�body�and�the�soul.�There�are�certain� foods�that�boost�metabolism�and�keep�you�looking�young�such�as�

Aalmonds,� berries,� yogurt,� salmon,�and�sweet�potatoes.

If� you� smoke� and� feel� tired� and�yellow�teeth�are�creeping� in,�don’t�tell� yourself� you� will� quit� immedi-ately�on�January�1st.�You�are�placing�unnecessary� pressure� on� yourself,�which� will� cause� you� to� reverse�back� to� old� habits� such� as� over�drinking�or�over�eating,�depending�on�what�makes�you�feel�better.�If� you� are� still� in� your� 20’s,� take�proactive� measures� to� keep� your-self� looking� youthful,� this� goes� for�both� men� and� women.� Your� older�self� will� thank� you� for� it.� Wear�sunscreen� 24� hours� a� day,� use� the�beach� to�party�or� relax,�but�not�as�a�sand�bed�to�lie�on�under�the�sun.�

If�you�are�in�your�30’s�or�40’s,�you�are�most�likely�over-whelmed�with�trying�many�different�anti-aging�products�that�you’ve�probably�spent�hundreds�of�dollars�on.The�rule� ‘you�have�to�start� from�within�before�masking�what’s�on� the�outside’”� rings� true�universally� for�a� rea-son.�A�true�glow�to�your�face�and�a�youthful�appearance�projects� outward.� Once� you� start� feeling� good� on� the�

inside,�take�some�time�to�have�fun.�Get�a�new�hair�style,�change�your�wardrobe�by�adding�in�some�colors,�whiten�your�teeth,�and�if�you�are�going�to�invest�in�a�cream,�buy�a�night�cream�and�an�SPF�for�daytime,�neither�of�which�has�to�be�expensive�and�can�be�found�at�any�local�drug�store.

If�your�budget�allows,�however,�investing�in�a�good�eye�cream� is� worth� it.� Often,� signs� of� aging� are� noticeable�just�by�the�dark�circles�under�your�eyes.�It’s�best�to�con-sult�your�dermatologist� for�suggestions.�Also,�the�cause�of� increased�lines�at� the�corner�of�your�eyes� is� the�tug-ging�and�pulling�whenever�you�use�eyeliner.�For�a�much�smoother�application,�you�might�want�to�try�a�liquid�or�marker-type�eyeliner.�

As�for�the�‘good�for�the�soul’�resolutions,�don’t�put�aside�donations� to� your� favorite� charities.� Since� every� dollar�counts,� if� you� can’t� donate� what� you� could� afford� last�year,� try� donating� the� minimum� amount.� Every� dollar�that�goes�to�a�local�children’s�or�women’s�shelter�counts,�and�you�could�be�part�of�changing�a�person’s�life�for�the�better.�

New�Year’s�resolutions�don’t�have� to�be�heavy�on�your�heart,�your�mind�or�your�budget.�Ring�in�the�New�Year�with�a�healthier�and�happier�you�and�everything�else�will�fall�into�place�as�it�should.�

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

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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.

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm

678.384.3480Fax: 678.384.3481

3911 Mary Eliza Trace • Suite 200 • Marietta On the corner of Due West Rd. and Acworth Due West Rd behind Wells Fargo Bank

Featuring a “Quick Care Walk-In Clinic” Monday - Friday 8:00 - 10:00am

Immediate Openings for Check-ups

By Mary B. Hammock, MSN, CPNP

ith�sleep�essential�to�mental�and�physical�development,�why�is�it�that�a� staggering�69%�of� children� less� than�10� years�of� age�have� sleep�problems?�The�National�Sleep�Foundation�(NSF)�characterizes�sleep�

problems�as�the�child�not�getting�enough�sleep,�taking�too�long�to�fall�asleep,�waking� up� during� the� night,� changing� sleeping� locations� during� the� night,�appearing� sleepy�during� the�day,� and/or� snoring.�Many�children�experience�

more�than�one�sleep-related�problem.

Understanding a Child’s Sleep HabitsChildren� spend�40%�of� their� childhood�asleep.�There�are� two�alternating� states�of�sleep.�Non-Rapid�Eye�Movement�(NREM),�also�known�as�“quiet”�sleep,� is�a�time�of�energy�restoration,�tissue�repair�and�hormonal�release�for�growth�and�development.�Rapid�Eye�Movement�(REM),�or�“active”�sleep,�is�a�time�of�dreaming�and�brain�activity�that�leaves�the�body�immobile�with�irregular�breathing�and�heart�rates.

Circadian�rhythms,�which�drive�the�sleep-wake�cycle,�are�regulated�by�light�and�dark.�The�body�produces�a�hormone�called�melatonin,�which�helps�to�make�one�less�alert�and� prepare� for� sleep.� Melatonin� is� undetectable� in� the� blood� during� the� day� but�rises�sharply�as�light�dims�into�the�evening.�Children�have�higher�levels�of�melatonin�than�adults.

Sleeping Tips for InfantsInfants�express�the�need�to�sleep.�Observe�a�baby’s�sleep�patterns�and�identify�signs�of�sleepiness�including�fussing,�crying�and�rubbing�eyes.�A�baby�should�be�put�on�its�back�to�sleep.�Since�the�American�Academy�of�Pediatrics�instituted�the�“Back�to�Sleep”�program,� there� has� been� a� significant� decrease� in� the� incidence� of� Sudden� Infant�Death�Syndrome�(SIDS).

Infants� develop� circadian� rhythms� at� six� weeks� old.� Feeding� an� infant� frequently�throughout�the�day�and�exposing�him�to�20�minutes�of�indirect�sunlight�make�for�a�better�sleeper.�Put�the�infant�to�bed�drowsy,�not�asleep.�This�allows�the�baby�to�soothe�himself�and�return�to�sleep�later.

After�six�months�of�age,�infants�experience�separation�anxiety,�illness,�and�increased�motor�development�which�may�disrupt�sleep.�Developing�regular�daytime�and�pleas-ant�bedtime�routines�become�vitally�important�in�this�age�group.�They�provide�secu-rity�and�reinforce�the�“self-soother”�mentality.

Sleeping Tips for ToddlersA�number�of�factors�can�interfere�with�sleep�including�a�toddler’s�need�to�assert�inde-pendence,�and�periods�of�rapid�developmental�growth.�There�is�a�physical�ability�to�get�out�of�bed,�the�development�of�imagination�leading�to�nighttime�fears,�and�the�increase�in�sociability.�The�same�routine,�environment,�and�security�object,�is�a�way�to�overcome�some�of�the�separation�anxiety.�Setting�limits�that�are�consistent,�com-municated�and�enforced�will�provide�expectations�and�thus,�security.

Sleeping Tips for PreschoolersPreschoolers� commonly� experience� nighttime� fears,� nightmares,� sleepwalking� and�night�terrors.�Continue�with�consistent�and�relaxing�bedtime�routines�and�have�the�child�sleep�in�a�room�that�is�cool,�quiet�and�dark�–�without�a�TV.

Sleeping Tips for School-aged ChildrenHomework,� sports� and� other� activities� place� increasing� demands� on� school-aged�children.�This�population�is�overloaded�with�media�and�caffeine�products.�Watching�TV� close� to� bedtime� has� been� associated� with� bedtime� resistance,� difficulty� falling�asleep,�and�sleeping�fewer�hours.�Inadequate�sleep�can�lead�to�mood�swings,�as�well�as�behavioral�and�cognitive�problems�that�impact�the�ability�to�learn.�Teach�school-aged�children�about�healthy�sleep�habits,�including�avoiding�caffeine.�Twenty�minutes�of�sunshine�and�30�minutes�of�exercise�will�also�reduce�stress�and�prepare�the�body�for�better�sleep.

Healthy Steps Pediatrics is helping to GROW healthy children one step at a time. If you have questions about your little one’s sleeping patterns, please call 678-384-3480 for advice.

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Tips for Improving Your Child’s Sleep


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

Heart Screeningsat WellStar

Cardiac Screenings are available for

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Extended weeknight hours and Saturday

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* Prices and extended hours available for a limited time. Heart screenings are self-pay only and not covered by insurance. † To qualify for a heart screening you must be40 years old or older, have two or more risk factors, have a personal physician willing to accept your results and not had a CT heart screening in the last four years. In order to provide you with the highest quality diagnostic scan there is a heart rate threshold for this exam. Please inquire with our screeners at 770-956-STAR for details.

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December 2011

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

***DURING�THE�HOLIDAYS,�dates,�times�and�locations�are�always�subject�to�change�prior�to�printing.�Please�contact�the�event�coordinator�to�confirm�dates�and�times.�For�the�full�Calendar�of�Events�visit�OurTownFamily.com.

2011 ANNUAL MAYOR’S MOTORCADEThe�annual�Mayor’s�Motorcade�benefits�mental�health�patients�in�the�state�of�Georgia.�Donations�of�all� types�are�needed.� �For�a� list�of� items�needed�and�drop�off�locations,�visit�AccessPaulding.com�or�visit�cityofdallasga.com.�

CHRISTMAS LIGHT AND MUSIC SHOW - The Home of the Felix FamilyNow through December 30; Weekdays 6pm-10pm and Weekends 6pm-11pmThe� Felix� family� of� Dallas� has� set� up� their� annual� display� of� over� 60,000�Christmas� lights.� This� animated� light� show� is� choreographed� to� music,� and�can�be�heard�through�your�car’s�radio�at�100.9FM.�Located�in�Oliver�Place�off�Dallas-Acworth�Hwy.�For�info,�email�them�at�[email protected].

PAULDING CHAMBER - GEORGIA POWER LUNCHEONPaulding County Senior Community CenterDecember 1; Thursday 11am - 1pm Keynote�speaker�is�Mr.�Stu�Ostro,�Senior�Director�of�Weather�Communications�and�Senior�Meteorologist� for�The�Weather�Channel.�$20/members,�$25/non-members�(Prepaid;�$5�more�at�the�door).�For�info�visit�pauldingchamber.org�or�call�770-445-6016.

MOM’S CLUB OF DALLAS AND HIRAM* - Bethany Christian ChurchDecember 1 and January 5; 1st Thursday of each month 10amMOMS�(Moms�Offering�Moms�Support).�Meetings�are�held�at�3264�Villa�Rica�Hwy�(Hwy�61)�Dallas.�For�more�information�email�[email protected].�

MCEACHERN MEMORIAL MOPS - (Mothers of Preschoolers)*December 1 and 15; 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month; 9:30am-11:30amThe� first�meeting� is� free�and�nursery� is�provided.�Meetings�are�held�at�McEachern�Memorial�UMC,�4075�Macland�Road,�Powder�Springs.�Call�770-943-3008�ext.�1260�or�visit�mceachernumc.org/mops/�(Jan�meetings�are�2nd�and�4th�Thursday).

6th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING - Old Towne HiramDecember 2; Friday 6pm-10pmLive�Nativity,�pictures�with�Santa,�live�music,�food�and�more.�Great�fun�for�the�whole�family.�For�more�info�email�Cynthia�at�[email protected].

DALLAS DANCE PRESENTS…THE NUTCRACKER December 2 and 3; Friday 7pm and Saturday at 6pmFor�more�info�on�ticket�prices,�call�the�box�office�at�678-363-0813�or�visit�www.dal�lastheater-civiccenter.com.

GOSPEL TRIO PHIL CROSS & CROSSING - Poplar Springs Baptist ChurchDecember 3 and 4; Saturday 7:30pm and Sunday 6pmAcclaimed� Christian� songwriter,� Phil� Cross� appears� in� concert� with� Crossing� on�Saturday�night,�featuring�Southern�gospel�and�praise�favorites.�Sunday�night,�enjoy�a�Christmas�cantata�which�includes�familiar�classic�carols�and�original�songs�written�by�Phil�Cross�and�other�Dove�Award�winners.�FREE!�PSBC�is�located�at�2056�Hiram-Douglasville�Hwy�(Hwy�92)�in�Hiram.�For�more�info�call�770-943-6789.

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE – Christmas is our BusinessDecember 3, 4, 10 and 11; Saturday and Sunday from Noon-6pmIn�the�home�of�Curtis�and�Brenda�Roquemore�of�Bentwater�subdivision,�are�3�floors�of� beautiful� Christmas� decor.� Admission� is� FREE!� Enter� to� win� a� fully� decorated�Christmas�tree.�Proceeds�benefit�St.�Jude�Children’s�Hospital.�(No�Cameras�Please)�For�more�info�or�directions�call�678-457-4434�or�678-324-8202.��

OUR MILITARY KIDS FUND RAISERDecember 3; Saturday 7pm-9pm @ Paint-n-PartySupport�the�families�of�our�troops.�A�portion�of�every�sale�will�go�to�“Our�Military�Kids”�from�the�family�of�Cpt.�Jon�Hamilton.�They�are�collecting�toys�all�month�long�to�pass�on�to�soldier’s�families.��If�anyone�brings�a�toy�when�they�visit�Paint-n-Party,�they�will�receive�$5�off�their�visit.��Get�details�by�visiting�paintnparty.org

“BACK TO BETHLEHEM” – Hopewell Baptist Church in CantonDecember 3 - 11; all evenings 7pm–9pmHopewell�Baptist�Church�invites�you�experience�the�joy�and�wonder�of�the�very�first�Christmas.�Visit�this�re-creation�of�the�city�of�Bethlehem�on�the�miraculous�night�our�Savior�was�born.�Admission�is�FREE!!��If�you�need�more�information�about�this�awe-some�event�visit�backtobethlehem.com�or�call�770-345-5723.

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We are jumping for joy about our 10th season!

www.studiodanceinc.com

770-505-4900104 Greystone Power Blvd. Suite A & B Dallas, Ga 30157

Ages 2-Adult Recreational & Competitive Programs

NowRegisteringfor classes!

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

uring�this�season�of�the�year�there� is� a� focus�on� joy,� love�and� hope� for� the� upcoming�

New� Year.� Each� year� the� holiday� season�promises�“peace�on�earth”�and�“good�will�

to� all.”�You�know�–� “it’s� the�most�wonder-ful�time�of�the�year!”�Heard�enough�clichés?��

Probably� ….because� the� harsh� reality� is� that�the�time�from�Halloween�to�New�Year’s�Day�can�be�very�stressful.�Rather�than�joyful,�many�experience�feelings�of�anger,�stress�and�sadness.

The� National� Mental� Health� Association� (NIMHA)�estimates� that� 60%� of� Americans� have� stress� and�depression�during�the�holidays�due�to�the�increase�demands,� fatigue� and� unrealistic� expectations� of�this� holiday� season.� When� feeling� overwhelmed,�step�back� and� review� your� expectations.� Are� they�realistic� or� are� you� setting� yourself� up� for� failure�(or� at� least� exhaustion� where� the� enjoyment� is�lost)?�Take� things�off�your� list.�Make�sure�you�are�not�becoming�trapped�in�the�seduction�of�other’s�approval.� You� don’t� have� to� please� everyone,� in�fact� go� ahead� and� give� up,� you� will� not� please�everyone.

Stress�less�this�year.�Take�care�of�yourself�and�nur-ture�your�cherished�relationships.�Remind�yourself�

Dto�show�your�love�for�others�and�keep�a�strong�con-nection�with�those�most�important�to�you.�Express�regular� appreciations� to� your� spouse,� children�and�friends�for�the�many�ways�they�bless�your�life.�Focus�on�being�forgiving�and�tolerant.�During�this�time�many�are�feeling�overwhelmed�and�pressured.�Forgive�mistakes�with�generosity�and�kindness,�and�focus�on�the�value�of�relationships�rather�than�on�gifts�and�“stuff.”��

Schedule� “you”� time� in� each� day� for� a� relaxing�activity� such� as� a� warm� bath,� listening� to� music,�taking�a�walk,�or�a�cup�of�tea.�Schedule�some�time�to�nourish�your�spirit.�Church�services�and�musical�performances�can�leave�you�feeling�refreshed�and�rested�rather�than�frazzled�and�exhausted.

Maintain�healthy�boundaries�and�say�“no.”�It�really�is� ok� if� you� don’t� agree� to� all� requests� or� attend�every� event.� Be� honest� with� yourself� about� what�is� most� important� and� make� sure� your� decisions�reflect�your�priorities�and�the�goal�of�living�the�life�you�want�to�be�living.�

The�NIMHA�sets�the�following�guidelines�to�mini-mize�negative�impacts�of�holiday�stress.

l� Keep� expectations� manageable.� Don’t� expect�perfection�or�the�recreation�of�a�Norman�Rockwell�picture.��l�Organize�your�time,�prioritize�activities�and�most�

of�all�be�realistic.l�The�holiday�season�does�not�negate�sad�or�lonely�feelings.� If� you� have� experienced� a� loss,� allow�yourself�the�opportunities�to�feel�and�express�your�grief.l� Let� go� of� attempting� to� recreate� past� holiday�experiences.�Enjoy�this�season�for�whatever�it�is.l�Do�something�for�someone�else.�This�is�a�com-mon� recommendation� and� one� that� is� frequently�ignored.�The�action�of�giving�of�time�and�energy�to�another�is�very�helpful�in�stress�reduction.l� Enjoy� FREE� holiday� activities� –� window� shop�without�buying�or�drive�around�to�look�at�holiday�decorations.l�Don’t�drink�much�alcohol.l�Try�something�new�or�start�a�new�holiday�tradi-tion.l�Spend�time�with�people�who�care�about�you.l�Find�time�for�yourself.l�Love�others�and�keep�the�holiday�spirit�alive�year�round.

These� are� helpful� guidelines� to� keep� in� mind.�Strive� to�make� this�holiday� season� the�best� it� can�be� for� you� and� your� family.� Whatever� your� faith�and�traditions�enjoy�this�special�time�of�celebration�with�those�you�love.

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

By Leisa A. Bailey, Ph.D.

Celebrating 1 year in our new location!

101 Bainbridge Way, Suite 130Dallas, GA 30132

Mon-Thur 9-5pmFriday, Saturday and Evening Appointments Available

770-443-7112

dallasfamilydentist.org

Dental Care for the Entire Family

A.J. Grant, DDS

No Insurance Holiday Special

$89Exam & Xray

Same Day Denture$300

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

If you’ve had disc problems for years, re-cently injured your back, or you’re suffering with sciatica, you must hear about these new studies.

Scientific studies tell us that spinal discs are responsible for most of the aches and pains people suffer from. Discs act like a cushion between our backbones and allow for a space at each level so the nerves can exit the spinal column.

When these discs get injured or wear out from bad posture, they begin to degenerate and cause pain. Bulging and herniations begin to form, pressing on the nerve roots. If the herniations occur at L4-L5, they can severely compromise the large sciatic nerve, causing muscle weakness, tingling, and severe pain.

The most common invasive treatment for disc herniations is surgery. This costs quite a bit of money. Even with health insurance the patient is left with their own portion of the bill, in excess of $10,000-$15,000, and sometimes more. The recovery time and missed work can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months, not to mention the obvious severe risks associated with all surgery.

But here’s the biggest problem… there is a high failure rate of back surgery. One medical study found that on average, 53% of L5-S1 back surgeries fail to produce relief of symptoms (International Orthop 1987.)

Before You Go Under The Knife And Opt For Spinal Surgery…You should seriously consider a less inva-sive approach called spinal decompression.

Non-surgical spinal decompression is a new technology that has been proven to re-verse disc herniations. It creates a vacuum effect on the disc, which pulls the disc back into its normal position and brings in a fresh blood supply to promote healing.

Do You Have A Disc Problem?If you experience any of the following in your back or neck, chances are your pain is due to a disc bulge, herniation or degenera-tion:

l A vice-like squeezing feeling in your backl Sitting causes back or leg painStabbing pain at the belt line or in your neckl Can’t turn over in bed without hurtingl Numbness in your toes or fingersl Fire down your legsl Searing pain radiates into your arml Prickling in your leg or toes

Finally, Some Good News……If you’ve been suffering with back pain or arm/leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs.

Until recently, the only advice for many of you suffering in pain was to try what

you’ve been told:

l Try exercising l Try physical therapy l Try pain medications l Try muscle relaxers l Try pain shots l Try dangerous back surgery l Just live with it

If you’re like most, none of these have worked for you or you are afraid of what could happen if you do try some of these. Exercising makes you hurt more, pain medications and muscle relaxers cover up the problem and give you side effects. Pain shots can cause more pain, don’t work or don’t last very long or FIX the prob-lem, back surgery didn’t work, or made you worse. Or maybe you were one of the lucky ones that back surgery actually helped, but now the problem is back with a vengeance.

Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check into a Breakthrough Computerized Non-Surgical Treatment for back pain and sciatic or leg pain caused by a bulging, herniated or squashed disc or discs.

It has helped hundreds of people who were suffering just like you. This new treatment machine we are calling “the squashed disc machine.”

How “Good” Discs become “Bad” DiscsOver time the discs in your back tend to get squashed or compressed, especially if you’ve played certain sports when younger or have a job that requires lots of sitting or standing in one place for long periods of time. Car accidents, lifting things, very physical jobs just to name a few.

It’s kind of like a cookie with cream filling, and the cream filling will start to ooze out from between the sides of the cookie if pressure is applied on top of the cookie (like gravity on our spines).

Eventually this happens to a lot of us. Statistics show over 80% of Americans will suffer with back pain some time in their life.

Spinal decompression treatments are very gentle. In fact, every once in a while I even catch a patient sleeping during treat-ment!

How Does This Machine Work?Haven’t you ever had the thought…”Gosh, if somebody could just pull me apart…I would feel a whole lot better.” Yeah, we know you have. And it kind of makes a bit of sense.

Well someone else, actually a medical manufacturer, back pain specialists, neuro-surgeons and engineers have come up with just that. A machine that gently pulls your apart, stretches the disc to a certain point that causes a drop in pressure inside the

disc (like a little vacuum in the middle of the cream filling) causing the cream filling to suck back in!You’ll simply lie on your stomach or back, whichever is comfortable, and then a specialized belt is gently put around your waist. We’ll set the machine to focus on your problem area – then the advanced decompression computer system will do the rest. Most patients feel better with just a few treatments, and best of all there will be no dangerous drugs, no invasive proce-dures, and no painful exercises.

Does Decompression really work?Absolutely! When you come in we will provide you with studies that show why decompression is a preferred method of treatment. But what provides the best “proof” on how well decompression works is what patients say about it. Just Listen to What Our Patients Had to Say:

“I came into the office with neck, low back and knee pain. I had been suffering with this pain for 33 years. The pain had gotten so bad I could hardly move. When I came to the office my neck pain was a 9 on a 1-10 scale (10 being the worse) and now is a 0. My back pain was a 10/10 and is now a 1. I am so happy with the success I have had with my treatment. I now have more self approval and I am more confident.” Thanks, Dennis Duckworth

I had been suffering with back pain for years when I first started treatment. I had sharp pain that would shoot up my spine and to into my right shoulder. It hurt to walk or lift any-thing. I can now stand for longer periods of time, walk without much pain at all and have more mobility. I already feel 70% better and have not even finished my treatments yet. The staff here is very friendly and they care about my well being. I would recommend people in pain to just come into the office and do it. Your friend, Marilyn Godwin

Before I started getting spinal decompression therapy I was having severe pain in my low back and numbness down my leg constantly. I had been suffering with this for 3 years. I had two nerve abrasions, multiple steroid shots in my back, pain killers, PT and water therapy and nothing worked. After the first spinal decompression treatment I could stand up straight with very little pain. I can now sleep through the night and exercise again. I am 90-100% better and I am so thankful I found this office. Thanks, John Ratledge

As you can see, spinal decompression has a high success rate with helping disc herniations, sciatica, and back pain. In just a matter of weeks you could be back on the golf course, enjoying your love life, or traveling again.

Feel the Improvement – and Say “Yes” to Life AgainWith my “Decompression Evaluation” we’ll be able to find the problem and then get to work on it. Think of how you’ll feel in just a few short weeks. See and feel your life

change for the better. Start your body on the way to pain-free, normal living, feel tight joints rest, relax, free up, muscles tied in knots will become more supple and strength in your muscles may increase.You’re able to live life like a normal person again, without back pain – able to play with your kids, enjoy time with friends, and finally get a good night’s rest.

The Single Most Important Solution To Your Sciatica and Back PainIt’s time for you to find out if spinal decom-pression will be your sciatic and back pain solution. For 15 days only, we’re running a very special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for spinal decompres-sion.

You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, like is has been for so many other patients.

Until December 15th you can get every-thing listed here for $20. The normal price for this type of evaluation including x-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking us up on this offer.

Here’s What To Do Now:Due to the expected demand for this treat-ment, we suggest calling our office at once at 770-668-6871

CALL TODAY! (770)-668-6871

“Attention Sciatica And Low Back Pain Sufferers…”Could One Hour With Our Doctors Give You The Answer To Your Disc Pain?

Now, in Acworth, GA, Dr. Erin Arnold, D.C. & Dr. Amy Valente, D.C. have what may be the most important breakthroughin non-surgical back pain treatment. Before and after MRI studies have shown disc bulges shrink in size

– even with the most painful cases of L4-L5 & L5S1 herniations.

Call Our 24-Hour Helpline Today

678-574-5678

New LifeChiropractic

Center3451 Cobb Parkway

Suite 6Acworth, GAPaid Advertisement

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

KENNESAW - 3104 Creekside Village Dr. l Suite 401 WEST COBB - Kroger Shopping Center across from The Avenue 770-974-3633HIRAM - Chick-fil-A/Walmart 92/278

Happy Holidays from all of us at

Singleton Orthodontics

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

19th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE - Downtown DallasDecember 3; Saturday 1 pm�The�Paulding�County�Rotary�Club�and�Civitan�Club�are�hosting�their�annual�Christmas�Parade.�The� theme� is� “An�Old�Fashioned�Main�Street�Christmas”.�For�info�or�to�participate�email�[email protected].

“A VERY CHORAL CHRISTMAS” - Dallas TheaterDecember 4; Sunday 3pm to 5pmPresented� by� the� Paulding� County� Builder’s� Association� and� features� the�Choirs� from� Paulding� County,� East� Paulding,� and� North� Paulding� High�Schools.�Advance�tickets�are�$10�and�may�be�purchased�through�the�partici-pating�choirs�or�the�PCBA�at�770-443-8472.�Tickets�$15�at�the�door.

SOUTHEASTERN GREYHOUND ADOPTION - PetSmart in HiramDecember 4; 1st Sunday of the Month 12 noon - 2pm*SEGA�is�an�organization�that�places�Greyhounds�into�good�homes�after�their�racing�careers�have�ended.�Visit�greyhoundadoption.org�or�call�us�at�770-473-9738.

PARENTS OF PRODIGALS - Mt. Calvary Baptist Church*December 7 and 21; 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month 7pm-8:30pmA�Christian�group�for�parents�with�prodigal�children.�MCBC�is�located�at�287�Mt.�Calvary�Road�in�Marietta.�Call�770-424-4387�for�more�information.

FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT – West Atlanta/Douglas Choral Society December 6; Tuesday 8pm25th�annual�“Silver�Anniversary”�Family�Christmas�Concert.�Douglas�County�High� School� Mashburn� Theater,� 8705� Campbellton� Street,� Douglasville.�LIMITED�SEATING;�tickets�can�be�purchased�for�$10�at�Kroger�(Douglasville),�from�a�Choral�member�or�at�the�door;�if�available.�WADCS.org.

PAULDING COUNTY WRITERS’ GUILD*December 6 and January 3; 1st Tuesday of the month; 6pm-8pm For�more�info�and�meeting�location�call�Dana�Freeman,�678-662-1948.

SCREENWRITER’S GROUP*December 6 and January 3; 1st Tuesday of the month; 3pmVisit�on�line�and�email�for�location�info,�GeorgiaScreenWriters.com

AMERICAN SLEEP APNEA/GA CHAP A.W.A.K.E. SUPPORT GROUPDecember 6 and January 3; 1st Tuesday of each month; 7pm-9pmMeetings�are�held�at�the�WellStar�Paulding�Hospital�1st�floor�conference�room.�For�more�information�call�Ann�L.�(Pickett)�Croft�at�770-445-2417�or�770-331-3088.

WEST VIRGINIA MISSION TRIP FUNDRAISERDecember 6; Tuesday 7pm to 9pm at Paint-N-PartySupport�mission�work�in�West�Virginia�through�Hope�UMC�in�Dallas.�Get�details�by�visiting�paintnparty.org.��PAULDING BUSINESS ASSOC. LUNCHEON* – Hiram Comm Ctr.December 8; 2nd Thursday of the month; 11:30am-1pmNetworking�and�Buffet�Lunch-$12.�Visitors�WELCOME!�pauldingba.org

PAULDING PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB* – Downtown DallasDecember 8 and 22; 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month; 7pmMeetings� are� at� 122�Main�Street,�Dallas.�Monthly� competitions,� field� trips,� etc.� For�more�information�visit�pauldingphotographyclub.org

ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP*December 8; 2nd Thursday of the month; 6pm-7pmMeetings�are�open�to�the�public�and�are�held�at�the�Aspen�Village�Sales�Office�located�at�59�Hillside�Trace,�Suite�117�in�Dallas.�For�more�info�call�770-445-3594.

3rd ANNUAL “PAULDING MUSICAL CHRISTMAS”December 10; Saturday 7:30pm – Dallas TheaterChristmas� concert� featuring� Nashville� recording� artist� Kevin� Harry,� gospel� singer�Joy� McBurrows,� American� Hope,� the� Steadfast� Quartet,� Unity,� Peyton� Waddell,�Amanda�Baxter,�and�Del�Delamont.�Gen.�Admission�seating�$20/adults,�$15/�Seniors,�$10/Students.� For� more� info� call� the� Theatre� Box� Office� 678.363.0813� or� email�[email protected].

mor

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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

Auditions for Women:Monday, December 5th

6pm to 9pmAuditions for Men:

Wednesday, December 7th6pm to 9pm

Info for audition:Please bring a resume and headshot if you have them. If you do not have a headshot, bring a black and white photo of you, taken from the neck up, size 4x6 or larger. For all auditions, please be prepared to stay a couple of hours as you may be asked to read sides & read with other actors.For more information on rehearsals and show run dates, please visit our website.

Mayors’ChristmasMotorcade

The City of Dallas 2011 Your generous donations will make Christmas dreams come true! Please send new and unwrapped gifts. Donations of wrapping paper, ribbons and bows are also needed. Thank you for sharing Holiday Joy.

Volunteers Make the Season Brighter for patients. Listed below are items most needed by patients this Christmas:

To benefit local mental hospitals(Please remember most patients are adults)

Personal Care ItemsToothpaste Toothbrushes Combs/BrushesCosmeticsShaving Lotion DeodorantAfter Shave Cosmetic CasesShampoo/ConditionerBody Lotion

Miscellaneous GiftsWallets Top 40 Tapes/CD Walkman Radios Watches Baseball Caps T-Shirts CardsBoard GamesStationary Pens/PencilsTote Bags Cookies/SnacksMovies (PG or G only) Hair Accessories

New Clothing(Extra Large through 4XXXX- Women)(Small-Men)Pajamas/Nightgowns/ BathrobesSocksUnderwearBedroom ShoesTennis ShoeHatsSweat Shirts/Pants

Item drop off: M-F 8a-5p Dallas City Hall Mon/Wed/Fri 3p-6p or Sat 9a-1p The Dallas Theater Box OfficeInfo: 770-445-5180

Check our website for more

upcoming events!

Please prepare a song and monologue. Monologueshould be 1 minute in length & prepare to sing about

8 to 16 bars of your song a capella (without accompaniment).

You must call to set an audition appointment time for Grease, please call 770-445-5180.

The MusicalThese auditions are open

to ages 15 and older, no exceptions.

AUDITION

Coming February 10th:Tickets On Sale NOW!

$25$22 for Children, Students, Sr. 62+, Military & Groups of 10+ “THE FUNNIEST MAN IN AMERICA”

Calendar of events continued from page 11

calendar of events continued on page 22

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

Meet Our Newest Physicianjoining East Paulding Pediatrics

Carolina Lee Hsu, M.D. H 678-945-8300Wellstar medical groupeast paulding pediatrics51 Hiram drive, Building B H Hiram, ga 30141

Same-day sick appointmentsWell-child exams, newborn to 18 yearsIntroductory consultations for parents to meet physicians and tour practiceComplimentary “teddy bear” check-ups

Accepting New Patients- Accepting most insurance plans - 770-956-star H wellstar.org

11/11

Smaller scars, faster recovery time, less trauma to the body and less need for medication …who wouldn’t want a surgery that offered all of these things?

Invasive Surgery�—�or�sometimes�referred�to�as�Laparoscopic�Surgery�—�can�be�a�great�alterna-tive� for� the� right� patients.� And� instead� of� days�in� the�hospital�and�even�more� recovery� time�at�home,� patients� can� leave� within� 24� hours,� or�even�the�same�day,�and�be�back�to�normal�activity�within�days,�not�weeks.

At�WellStar�Kennestone�and�Cobb�Hospitals,�phy-sicians�who�are�leaders�in�their�respective�fields�are� performing� the� latest� in� minimally� invasive�surgery�and�using�their�expertise�to�teach�other�clinicians� in� the� region.� Whether� it� is� gastric,�neurological�or�orthopedic,� the�number�of�pro-cedures� now� being� performed� laparoscopically�continues�to�grow.

“The�breadth�and�depth�of�the�technology�being�used�by�physicians�at�WellStar�is�astounding,�and�we�are�very�pleased�to�be�able�to�offer�these�procedures�at�our�facility,”�said�Sherron�Kurtz,�executive�director�of�surgical�services�at�WellStar�Kennestone�Hospital.

These� surgeries� are� often� performed� using� small� cameras� with� microscopes,� tiny�lights�and�high�definition�monitors.�Physicians�are�even�able�to�perform�procedures�now� using� only� one� incision� —� through� the� belly� button.� These� single� incision�surgeries� are� currently�being�used� for� gallbladder� removals� at�WellStar�Cobb�and�Kennestone�Hospitals.

Video� Assisted� Thoracic� Surgery� (VATS)� uses� the�mini-cameras�to�diagnose�and�treat�conditions�in�the�chest.�During�this�surgery,�one�or�more�small�incisions�are�made�in�the�chest.�A�tiny�fiber-optic�camera,� called� a� thorascope,� is� inserted� through�one�incision,�and�surgical�instruments�are�insert-ed�through�the�same�or�other�small�incisions.�The�thorascope� transmits� images�of� the� inside�of� the�chest� on� a� video� monitor,� guiding� the� surgeon�in�maneuvering�the� instruments� to�complete� the�procedure.� VATS� can� replace� a� traditional� tho-racotomy,� which� uses� one� large� incision� to� gain�access�to�the�chest.

Another�addition�to�the�world�of�minimally� inva-sive�procedures�is�the�da�Vinci�Surgical�System®.�WellStar� Kennestone� and� Cobb� Hospitals� offer�gynecologic,�urologic�and�cardiac�surgical�proce-dures�using�the�da�Vinci�Surgical�System,�robotics�

technology� that� allows� for� significantly� smaller� incisions� than� those� made� during�traditional�open�surgeries.�Da�Vinci� is� fundamentally� similar� to�previous� forms�of�laparoscopic� surgery,� but� its� high-definition� 3-D� technology� allows� the� operating�surgeon�significantly�better�vision�than�does�traditional�video�equipment.�Da�Vinci’s�technology�only�enhances�a�surgeon’s�skills�–�it�does�not�replace�them.�

For�more�information�on�WellStar’s�surgical�services,�the�minimally�invasive�surger-ies�offered�or�for�a�physician�referral,�please�call�770-956-STAR�(7827).

Paid�Advertisement

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By Keith Lamberson, MD

s� the� winter� season� approaches� some� may�wrap�up�in�a�blanket�by�a�cozy�fire,�while�oth-ers�get�ready�for�the�seasonal�sports�that�only�

come�around�this�time�of�year.�Winter�sports,�such�as�ice� skating,� snow� skiing,� tobogganing� and� sledding�may�serve�as�a�great�way�to�get�outdoors�and�exercise,�but� also� can� result� in� injury� if�proper� safety�precau-tions� are� not� practiced.� To� help� avoid� injuries,� here�are� some� tips� of� how� to� stay� safe,� so� you� can� enjoy�your�winter�activities.

n�Warm�up�thoroughly;�just�like�with�any�other�type�of�exercise�a�warm�up�is�necessary.�The�warm�up�should�be�about�10�minutes�of�increasing�your�heart�rate�and�blood� flow� to� your� muscles.� Cold� muscles,� tendons�and�ligaments�are�vulnerable�to�injury.

n�Drink�plenty�of�water�before,�during,�and�after�outdoor�activities.�Don’t�drink�alco-hol�as�it�can�increase�your�chances�of�hypothermia.

n�Keep�in�shape�and�condition�muscles�before�partaking�in�winter�activities.�

n�Always�check�the�weather.�During�the�winter�months�there�are�many�unpredictable�storms�and�severe�temperature�drops�that�may�cause�snow�and�ice.�Skiers�and�snow-boarders�should�make�adjustments�for�icy�conditions,�deep�snow�powder,�wet�snow,�and�adverse�weather�conditions.

n�Dress�appropriately.��Wear�several�layers�of�light,�loose�and�water-�and�wind-resis-tant�clothing�for�warmth�and�protection.�Layering�allows�you�to�accommodate�your�body’s�constantly�changing�temperature.�Also�wear�appropriate�protective�gear�such�as�goggles,�helmets,�and�gloves.�If�you�are�skiing�or�snowboarding,�check�to�make�sure�binding�on�boots�have�been�set�and�adjusted�correctly.

n� Never� participate� alone� in� a� winter� sport.� If� possible,� skiers� and� snowboarders�should�go�with�partners�and�stay�within�sight�of�each�other.

n� Skiers� and� snowboarders� should� stay� on� marked� trails.� Sledders� should� avoid�sledding�near�or�on�public�streets.�Sledding�should�be�done�only�in�designated�and�approved�areas�where�there�are�no�obstacles�in�the�sledding�path.

n�Know�and�abide�by�all�rules�of�the�sport�in�which�you�are�participating.

n�Take�a�lesson�from�a�qualified�instructor,�especially�in�sports�like�skiing�and�snow-boarding.�Learning�how�to�fall�correctly�and�safely�can�reduce�the�risk�of�injury.�Falling�techniques�aim�to�protect�your�vulnerable�body�parts.

n�Seek�shelter�and�medical�attention�immediately�if�you,�or�anyone�with�you,�is�expe-riencing�hypothermia�or� frostbite.�Early� frostbite�symptoms� include:�numbness�and�tingling�in�you�digits,�lack�of�feeling�and�poor�motion.

n�Avoid�participating�in�sports�when�you�are�in�pain�or�exhausted.�Many�skiers�are�injured�on�the�final,�“one�last�run”�--�if�tired,�call�it�a�day.

n�If�injured�during�any�winter�excursion�and�pain�or�discomfort�persists,�follow�up�with�an�orthopedic�surgeon�to�examine�the�injury.

When�preparing�for�your�favorite�winter�sports,�remember�to�keep�these�safety�tips�in�mind.�By�taking�these�few�precautions,�you’re�most�likely�to�avoid�uncomfortable�and�untimely�injuries.�Be�careful,�so�you�can�“skate,�slide,�and�glide�to�injury-free�winter!”

Dr. Lamberson 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.

A

med

ical Skate, Slide and Glide

through Winter without Injuries

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

s� we� move� closer� to�winter� and� home�fire� deaths� begin�

to� increase,� the� U.S.� Fire�Administration� (USFA)� and�the� National� Fire� Protection�Association� (NFPA)� remind�everyone� that� fire� safety� and�prevention� are� especially�important� in� the� coming�months.��Because�home�fires�are�more�prevalent�in�winter�than�in�any�other�season,�USFA�and�NFPA�are�once�again�jointly�sponsoring�a�special� initiative�–�Put�a� Freeze� on� Winter� Fires� –� to� help� raise� public�awareness�about�winter�fire.

“These� fires� are� a� painful� reminder� of� what�we� see� every� year� –� the� temperatures� drop�and� fires� increase,”� said� NFPA� President� Jim�Shannon.�According�to�NFPA�statistics,�space�heat-ers�account�for�about�one�third�of�home�heating�

fires�and�approximately�80�percent�of�the�home�heating�fire�deaths.

The� USFA’s� Winter� Residential� Building� Fires� report�shows�that�each�winter�an�estimated�108,400�residential�building� fires� occur� in� the� United� States,� resulting� in�945�deaths,�3,825� injuries,�and�$1.7�billion� in�property�loss.�Cooking� is� the� leading� cause�of�winter� residential�

building� fires� at� 36� percent� followed� by�heating� at� 23� percent.�Winter� residential�

building� fires� occur� mainly� in� the� early� evening�hours,�peaking�from�5�pm�to�8�pm.

“The� winter� season� brings� the� highest� number�of� home� fires,� more� than� at� any� other� time� of�year,”� said� USFA’s� Deputy� Fire� Administrator�Glenn�Gaines.�“Home�fires�increase�in�part�due�to�cooking�and�heating.�Winter�storms�can�also�

interrupt� electrical� service� and� cause� people� to�turn�to�alternative�heating�sources�that�contribute�to�the�increased�risk�of�fire�during�the�winter�months.”

The USFA and NFPA recommend following these safety tips to prevent winter home fires:

l� Stay� in� the� kitchen� when� you� are� frying,� grilling,� or�broiling� food.�If� you� leave� the�kitchen� for� even�a� short�period,�turn�off�the�stove.

l�Space�heaters�need�space;�keep�anything�that�can�burn�at�least�three�feet�away�from�each�heater.

l� Check� electrical� cords� often� and� replace� cracked� or�damaged� electrical� or� extension� cords.�� Do� not� try� to�repair�them.

l� Never� use� your� oven� or� stovetop� to� heat� your�home.�They�are�not�designed� for� this�purpose�and�can�

hom

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prov

emen

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A

Reservations Available Onlinewww.pauldingchamber.org

51 YEARS OF SERVICECelebratingJanuary 26, 2012

Paulding County Community Center Reception – 6 PM

Dinner – 7 PM Cocktail Attire

Individual Tickets $125

The Paulding Chamber

Keynote Address by

Nationally Syndicated Talk Show Host

Neal Boortz

Presents

be�a�fire�hazard.�In�addition,�carbon�monoxide�(CO)�gas�might�kill�people�and�pets.

l�Do�not�put� your� live�Christmas� tree�up� too�early�or�leave� it� up� for� longer� than� two� weeks.�Keep� the� tree�stand�filled�with�water�at�all�times.

l�Avoid�using�lighted�candles.�If�you�must�use�candles,�place�them�in�sturdy�candleholders�that�won’t�burn.

l�If�you�smoke,�use�only�fire-safe�cigarettes�and�smoke�outside.

“Winter� fires� are� preventable,”� Gaines� emphasized.��“Everyone� should� find� out� what� they� need� to� know� to�prevent�a�tragedy�and�have�a�safe�winter�season.”

For�more� information�about� the� causes�of�winter� fires,�winter�storm�fire�safety,�holiday�fire�safety,�and�tips�that�will�help�prevent�the�incidence�of�fire�in�the�home,�visit�the� USFA� website� at� www.usfa.fema.gov/winter� and� the�NFPA�website�at�www.nfpa.org/winter.

The� United� States� Fire� Administration� recommends�everyone� should� have� a� comprehensive� fire� protection�plan� that� includes�smoke�alarms,�residential�sprinklers,�and�practicing�a�home�fire�escape�plan.

Printed with permission from the United States Fire Administration.

Put a on Winter Fires

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

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PAGE 20 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� Our Town

By Michelle Jones�

hristmas�is�one�of�those�times�when�we�need�to�implement�as�many�money-saving�tips�as�we�can,�so�that�we�can�spend�less�and�enjoy�the�TRUE� meaning� of� Christmas� even� more!� Below� are� several� “frugal”�

ideas�to�save�money�at�Christmas.�You�may�have�tried�some�of�them�already,�but�hopefully� there�will� be� something� you� can� take� from� the� list� and�add� to� your�money-saving�traditions.

CHRISTMAS CARDS:l� Send�postcards�or� letters,� instead�of�Christmas� cards.�They� require� less�postage�than�a�regular�card.l�Cut�old�Christmas�cards�in�half,�and�send�the�pretty�side�as�a�postcard.�I�did�this�many�years�and�it�works�great,�plus�you’re�being�‘earth�friendly’�by�recycling.�l�If�you�purchase�inexpensive�cards�at�a�discount�store,�look�them�through�carefully.�If�you’re�going�to�buy�Christmas�cards,�they�might�as�well�look�nice!�l�Make�a�short�phone�call.�Most�of�us�get�free�long-distance�on�our�cell�phones,�and�your�loved�ones�would�probably�much�rather�hear�your�voice�than�receive�a�card.�

WRAPPING PAPER: l�Use�magazine�pages�or�the�comic�section�of�the�newspaper�to�wrap�gifts.l�Save�used�wrapping�paper�all�through�the�year,�just�roll�them�back�onto�the�paper�tube�and�place�a�small�piece�of�scotch�tape�on�the�edge�to�hold�in�place.�If�the�paper�is�the�wrong�theme,�you�could�just�turn�it�over�and�decorate�the�plain�side�yourself!�l� Don’t� buy� expensive� ribbons� and� bows� to� decorate� your� packages,� if� you� hunt�around�you�can�find�the�cheap�stuff�that�will�be�just�as�pretty!�l�Make�your�own�gift�tags�by�cutting�a�small�piece�of�matching�paper�and�folding�it�in�half.�l�If�you�sew,�you�could�even�use�scrap�material�to�wrap�gifts.�

DECORATIONS: l�The�stores�have�incredible�sales�every�year�for�decorations,�buy�close�to�the�holiday�or� even� better,� after� the� holiday!� You� could� fill� your� house� with� beautiful� holiday�decorations�every�year�(if�you�wanted�to),�for�a�small�fraction�of�what�they�originally�cost!�l�Save�your�children’s�(or�grandchildren’s)�holiday�crafts�and�artwork�from�school�each�year,�after�a�few�years�you’ll�have�a�houseful�of�free�and�beautiful�decorations!�And�the�joy�your�child�will� feel�seeing�his/her�artwork�proudly�displayed�year�after�year�is�priceless.�l�Have�a�warm�and�cozy�Christmas�the�old-fashioned�way.�Pop�some�popcorn�and�string�it�up�all�over�the�house!�l�Add�some�cranberries�to�your�popcorn�string�for�a�touch�of�color.�l� Decorate� your� house� by� bringing� the� outside� in,� using� pinecones� and� acorns!�Sprinkle�with�a�few�drops�of�pine�scented�oil�if�you�have�it�on�hand,�I�know�a�lot�of�you�just�might!�

FOOD: l�Read�the�ad�flyers�for�specials�and�compare�prices!�Buy�whatever’s�on�sale�at�one�store,�then�a�few�days�later�when�we�need�more�milk,�I�go�to�a�second�store�and�get�their�best�deals,�it’s�a�great�money-saver!�l�Store�brands�are�great�when�making�casseroles�and�side�dishes.�l�Cook�your�turkey�in�a�large�Reynolds�cooking�bag�and�you�won’t�need�to�buy�an�expensive�Butterball,�any�brand�will�be�wonderful!�l�Stock�up�while�everything’s�on�sale,�just�an�extra�can�or�box�here�and�there.�If�you�end�up�with�too�many�bargain�buys,�share�them�with�your�local�food�bank!�

ENTERTAINMENT: l�Have�a�family�gathering�to�decorate�the�tree,�wrap�gifts,�or�bake�cookies!l�Drive�around�our� town,�or�another�one�nearby,� to� see� the�Christmas� lights!� It’s�free!�l�Get�out�the�board�games�or�playing�cards,�the�kids�will� love�spending�time�with�you.�l�Sing!!!�Many�churches�and�groups�even�have�caroling�get-togethers�in�December.�l�Sit�around�a�warm�fire,�or�cozy�up�in�the�living�room�with�blankets�and�hot�cocoa,�and�tell�family�stories.l�Read�a�Christmas�book�together�as�a�family,�or�have�everyone�contribute�a�chapter�and�create�a�new�Christmas�book�about�your�own�family!�

Have�a�blessed�Christmas!!!

finan

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Frugal Tips for Saving Money at Christmas

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

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ave�you�ever�thought�back�to�your�first� apartment� or� dorm� room?�You� took� that� small� amount� of�

space� and� made� it� work� for� you.� As� the�years�have�gone�by�and�your�living�quarters�have�expanded�you�probably�feel�just�as�lim-ited�in�storage�and�living�area.�How�can�that�be?�Unless�you�are�that�rare�but�much�admired�person�that�controls�the�accumulation�and�clutter,�you�quite�simply�have�more�stuff�because�you�have�more�space.

You�can�make�a�big�impact�on�your�home�clutter�in�just�two�weeks.�Here�are�three�goals�to�reach�in�the�next�14�days.

Goal Number One - Clean surfaces throughout the house

Do�you�have�piles�of�papers,�magazines,�books�and�who�knows�what�else�on�every�horizontal� surface� in� your�home?�This� type�of�disorganization� leads� to� frustration.�Bills� get� lost� and� late� payments� have� to� be� paid.� Library� books� become� overdue.�Invitations�are�forgotten.�You�waste�time�looking�for�things.�The�bottom�line�is�this�simple�clutter�cost�you�time�and�money.

Pick�one�area�and�move�everything�that�is�piled�in�that�area�to�a�space�you�can�spread�out.�Place�a� trash�can�beside�you�and�use� it� liberally.�As�you�go�through�your�clut-ter,�separate�it�into�piles.�For�example,�bills�in�one�pile,�receipts�in�another,�medical�information�goes� in�another,�vacation� information,�etc.�The�piles�will� then�be� filed�together� for� easy� retrieval� as� needed.� Break� them� down� to� as� many� categories� as�needed�in�your�filing�system.�

Every� home� should� have� a� file� cabinet.� It� is� the� easiest� way� to� keep� track� of� your�important�papers.�Having�no�room�is�NOT�an�excuse.�You�can�buy�a�small�one�and�cover�it�with�a�table�cloth.�It�will�double�as�a�night�stand�but�will�be�easily�accessible�when� you� need� your� files.� You� can� also� buy� plastic� containers� that� serve� as� a� file�container.�They�can�be�labeled�as�medical,�house,�schoolwork�etc.�These�are�portable�and�can�be�stored�in�closets.

Go�from�room�to�room�until�all�surfaces�are�cleaned�off.�It�may�not�be�all�paper�clut-ter.�What�is�on�your�bathroom�counter�that�can�be�stored�away?�Has�your�night�stand�been�cleaned�off�lately?�Seeing�so�many�empty�spaces�around�your�home�will�make�you�feel�like�you�are�making�progress.

Goal Number Two - Organize your bathroom vanity

Everyday�you�stand�in�front�of�this�area�getting�ready�to�start�your�day.�It�should�serve�you�by�helping�you�get�through�your�routines�efficiently.�Take�everything�out�of�the�drawers,� medicine� cabinet� and� cabinetry.� Wipe� down� the� surfaces� and� change� the�shelf�paper.�Feels�good�already,�right?�Replace�everything�in�a�way�that�it�make�sense�to�you.�Needed�but�seldom�used� items�are�stored� in� the�back�of� the�drawer�while�things�you�use�daily�should�be�within�easy�reach.�Do�not�forget�to�check�the�expira-tion�dates�on�medicines.�Toss�the�outdated�ones�as�well�as�old�toiletries.�Do�you�have�room�to�keep�extra�items�in�your�linen�closet�to�free�up�space�in�your�vanity?�This�piece�of�valuable�real�estate�should�be�holding�only�what�you�need.

Goal Number Three - Clean out 3 drawers

In�the�next�two�weeks�make�the�commitment�to�clean�out�just�three�drawers.�You�can�choose�one�that�is�a�major�mess,�one�that�is�a�medium�challenge�and�one�that�can�be�done�while�you�are�on�the�phone.�It�does�not�matter�the�amount�of�effort�it�takes,�just�do�it.�Throw�away�all�foreign�objects.�Use�baskets,�bowls�or�storage�containers�to�keep�similar�items�together�when�you�are�reorganizing�the�drawer.�Neat�drawers�make�happy�owners.

Your�home�will�feel�calmer�and�even�bigger�if�you�dedicate�time�in�the�next�two�weeks�toward�meeting�these�goals.�Who�does�not�want�that?�

H

hom

e &

des

ign Three No Cost Steps

to Having a Larger Home

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

calendar of events continued from page 15

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA - McGarity Elementary SchoolDecember 10; Saturday 8am-1pmMcGarity� Elementary� in� Hiram� is� hosting� their� annual� Breakfast� with� Santa�and�Craft�Show.�For�more�information,�to�purchase�tickets�or�request�a�crafter�application,�contact�Beth�Green�at�404-519-9289�or�[email protected].

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA - Paulding Senior CenterDecember 10; Saturday 8am-11am Share�breakfast�with�Santa!�Hosted�by�the�Paulding�County�Parks�and�Rec�Dept.�Cost�is�$11/person�for�breakfast�and�picture�with�Santa�or�$6/person�for�break-fast�OR�picture�only.�All�participants�must�pre-register�by�Dec.�2�at�any�Paulding�County�Park�location.�Call�Mt�Tabor�Park�770-505-3885�for�more�info.

NW ATLANTA MOMS OF MULITIPLES* – North Metro Church December 12; 2nd Monday of the month 7pmClub�for�families�with�or�expecting�twins,�triplets,�etc.�Special�events,�Mom’s�Nights�Out,� etc.�Visit�website� for�more� info�NOWAMOM.org�or� call�678-404-0034.

SIP-SHOP and UNWIND - Olive Tree in HiramDecember 13; Tuesday 4pm - 9pmCome� relax� with� the� Paulding� Executive� Women� and� get� those� last� minute�Christmas� gifts� for� your� entire� family.� Members� $10,� Non-Members� $15;�includes�buffet�and�2�drink�tickets.�RSVP�your�attendance�by�December�8th�to�Madge�Lovingood�770-439-7991�or�email�[email protected].�

PAULDING 45 & OVER SINGLES CLUB ACTIVITIES*December�13;�2nd�Tuesday�of�each�month�6:30pm�–�Ryan’s�in�HiramContact�Lynn�Mitchell�at�[email protected]

WRITERS CRITIQUE GROUP – “WRITERS OF LIKE MIND”*December 14 and 28; 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month; 6pm – 7:30pmCall� Hank� Somma� for� meeting� location.� 678-414-6146� or� [email protected].�

UKRAINIAN ORPHANAGE FUNDRAISERDecember 15; Thursday 7pm to 9pm at Paint-N-PartySupport�a�Ukrainian�Orphanage�through�Jennifer�Elise�Ministries.�Get�details�by�visiting�paintnparty.org.

GIRL SCOUT CAROLING EVENT - Paulding County Senior CenterDecember 19; Monday 10amSeveral�scouts�from�the�Service�Unit,�Meadowlark,�will�attend�this�event�for�the�fifth�year�in�a�row.�This�event�has�grown�each�year.�The�girls�will�sing�Christmas�carols�and�visit�with�the�seniors,�while�giving�each�senior�a�handmade�ornament.

LIVE NATIVITY CELEBRATION - St. Teresa’s Episcopal ChurchDecember 22 and 23; Thursday and Friday 6pm to 9pmThis�live�nativity�is�a�gift�to�the�community�from�Paula�and�Jim�Flippin�as�a�way�to�say�“thank�you”�to�the�women�who�saved�Jim’s�live�after�nearly�drowning.�The�church�is�located�at�5725�Fords�Rd,�Acworth.�Visit�SaintTeresa.org�for�more�info.��

PAULDING CHAMBER - GEORGIA POWER LUNCHEONPaulding County Senior Community CenterJanuary�5;�Thursday�11am�-�1pm�Keynote� speaker� TBA.� $20/members,� $25/non-members� prepaid;� $5� more� at� the�door).�For�info�visit�pauldingchamber.org�or�call�770-445-6016

Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST - East Paulding High School TheatreJanuary 26; Thursday 12noon; School Shows OnlyJanuary 14-15; Friday 7pm and Saturday 3pm – Public ShowsTEACHERS� reserve� your� seats�now!�The� final� count� and� final�payment�deadline� is�January�13.�Tickets�are�$4�for�students�and�$5�for�adults.�Teachers-FREE.��Visit�ephs�theatre.com�or�contact�Grant�Brown�at�[email protected]�for�more�info.

WINTER PROGRAMS – Paulding Parks & RecreationPaulding� County� Parks� and� Rec� offers� many� different� programs� and� events.� For� a�complete�list�of�programs�and�deadlines�call�770-222-3270�or�visit�paulding.gov.__________________________________________________________________________

***Email� events� to� [email protected],� Deadline� is� the� 10th� of� the� month.� SPACE� IS�LIMITED!�Put�Calendar�Event�in�the�subject�line.�RESTRICTIONS�APPLY.�

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7131 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs, GA 30122770-941-6342 www.chrams.org

A Ministry of Colonial Hills Baptist Church

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

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Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. is a UPS® company. The UPS Store® locations are independently owned and operated by franchisees of Mail Boxes Etc., Inc. in the USA and byits master licensee and its franchisees in Canada.Services and hours of operation may vary by location. Copyright © 2010 Mail Boxes Etc., Inc.

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LIZ WILLIAMSiz�Williams�is�a�licensed�photographer�residing�in�Dallas.�She�has�been�mar-ried�for�five�years�to�her�husband�Chris�

and�they�share�a�three�year�old�daughter,�Madison.��

Liz� has� always� had� an� interest� in� photo-journalism,�but�never�had�the�time�to�pur-sue�it�as�a�career�until�2008�when�she�be-came� a� stay-at-home� mom.� “Photography�is�a�therapeutic�art-form�that�allows�me�to�capture� the� true� essence� of� a� single� mo-ment,”� she� says.� Photography� is� her� pas-sion,�and�with�every� snap�of�her�camera,�it’s�Liz’s�goal� to�capture�the�beautiful�de-tails�of�life.�

It�was�this�passion�that�inspired�her�to�start�her�own�photography�business,�Liz�Williams�Photography,�LLC.�She�specializes�in�newborn,�weddings,�portraits,�maternity,�seniors�and�more.�She�has�a�por-table�studio�complete�with� lighting,�props,�backdrops,�and�backdrop�stands�big�enough� to�fit� the�entire� family.� In� the�past�year�her�clientele�has�grown�from�about�50�to�over�300�clients.�Liz�says,�“My�assistant�Cheryl�Sawyer�and�I�take�pride�in�offering�high�quality�photos�at�a�much�lower�price�than�the�com-petition,�and�we�treasure�the�friendships�we�make�along�the�way”.�She�praises�her�late�mentor,�Tula�Brown,�for�her�inspiration�to�become�a�photographer.�“Her�sarcastic�photo�criticism�still�echoes�in�the�back�of�my�mind�and�keeps�

me� pushing� harder.� Without� her� I� would� have� never� had� the�strong�mentality� and�motivation�to�do�what�I�do”.�For�more�information�and�view�her�portfolio,�you�can�visit�her�website,�www.LizWil-liamsPhotography.com.�To�contact�her,�call�678-315-4012�or�email�[email protected].

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The Beloved Kingdom Ministries HOPE OF THE WORLD

The Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, send us a Baby Named JESUS,

His only begotten Son, the Messiah, King of Kings, Prince of Peace, Wonderful

Counselor, the Comforter, Teacher, Savior, Redeemer, Emmanuel.

“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might

live through Him.” John. 3:16; 1 John 4:9. Amen!

NEW LOCATION!340 Pace Road, Hiram, Ga. 30141Sunday Worship Services:9:45am and 11:00am

1 John 4:7-9

John & Annette Nettles, PastorsP.O. Box 949, Hiram, Georgia [email protected] - Office 760-996-0468

Joe SarberJoe�was�born�and�raised�in�Grand�Rapids,�Michigan.�His�inspiration�for�becoming�a�firefighter�developed�after�his�16� year�old�brother�was�nearly� killed� in� an� automobile�accident�and�then�developed�seizures.�The�first�time�his�brother�had�a�seizure�Joe�was�terrified�and�still�remem-bers�the�feeling�of�relief�when�he�heard�the�sounds�of�the�fire�truck’s�sirens�neared�their�home.�It�was�then�he�knew�he�wanted�to�be�that�person�on�the�truck�bringing�that�same�sense�of�relief�to�others.

Three�years�ago�while�visiting�Paulding�and�submitting�his�applications�to�surround-ing� fire� departments,� he� happened� to� run� into� Larry� Davis,� PCFD� Quartermaster.�He� informed�Joe� that� it�was� the� last�day�of� the�application�process� for� the�county.�He�immediately�submitted�an�application�and�approximately�one�year�later�signed�a�contract�with�the�PCFD.

Joe�and�his�fiancé�Gentry�have�two�wonderful�children,�6�year�old�daughter�Mia�and�4�year�old�son�Elijah.�During�his�spare�time,�he�serves�on�the�Board�of�Directors�of�Humble�Heroes,�a�non�profit�organization�which�raises�money�for�disabled�or�termi-nally�ill�firefighters�and�police�officers.

Aaron WilderAaron�was�born�and�raised�in�California.�After�serving�in�the�military�he�moved�to�Arizona�where�he�began�his�career�as�a�firefighter.�While�there�he�met�his�wife,�Amanda,�who�was�from�Paulding.�They�decided�to�move�to�back�to�Georgia�to�start�their�family;�now�they�have�a�daughter�and�a�son.

It�was�during�Aaron’s�time�in�the�military�that�he�became�a� volunteer� fireman� and� fell� in� love� with� the� profession.�He�says,�“I’ve�always�had�it�in�my�blood�to�be�behind�the�lights� and� sirens� going� to� a� fire.� The� adrenaline� you� get�from�being�in�a�fire�truck�is�the�best�feeling�in�the�world.”��

Shortly�after�his�move�here,�Aaron�was�hired�by�the�PCFD�and�he’s�been�with�them�for�three�years.

Christmas�is�a�favorite�time�for�Aaron.�Through�firehouse�Christmas�programs�he�is�able� to�help� local� families�who�have� fallen�on�hard� times�by�providing�a�meal�and�presents�for�the�children.�His�favorite�part�is�seeing�the�excitement�on�the�children’s�faces.��He�says,�“It’s�good�to�remember�the�meaning�of�Christmas�and�to�do�for�oth-ers.”�It�was�a�tradition�of�his�in�Arizona,�and�one�he�is�continuing�here�in�Paulding.

All�of�these�men�have�giving�hearts;�they�are�full�of�humility�and�concern�for�others.�In�addition�to�the�time�and�dedication�they�give�each�month�to�the�Paulding�County�Fire�Department,�they�are�giving�back�this�Christmas�by�heading�up�an�in-house�program�that�will�give�some�of�Paulding’s�disadvantaged�families�a�Merry�Christmas.

We�appreciate�the�assistance�of�Deputy�Fire�Chief�Joey�D.�Pelfrey,�Fire�Chief�Michael�Earwood,�and�the�rest�of�the�men�at�Station�2.�It�was�an�honor�to�be�allowed�to�come�to�their�house�and�photograph�these�men�with�the�old�1947�Dodge�fire�truck*�that�proudly�stands�outside�their�station.*This 1947 Dodge Fire Truck was purchased new by the Smyrna Fire Department. In 1972 the engine was donated to the Paulding County Union Volunteer FD and was used as a brush truck (to fight brush fires). Later, it was sold to an unknown individual. Chief Earwood found the engine at a car dealership in Carrollton in 2001 and returned it to Paulding County.

Continued from Pg. 5

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

his�year�Paulding�Christmas,�Inc.�and�Hope�for�Christmas�will�be�partnering�to�provide�toys�and�food�to�local�families�in�need.��

Paulding�Christmas,� Inc� is�a� local�non-profit�organization�that�has�provided�toys� to�needy�children� in�Paulding�County�since�1986.�Paulding�Christmas�primarily� raises�funds�by�selling�funnel�cakes�at�the�annual�Paulding�Meadows�Arts�&�Craft�Festival,�by�sponsoring�Pennies�for�Paulding�each�November�through�Paulding�County�schools�and� through� donations.� � In� 2010,� Paulding� Christmas� provided� toys� to� over� 1,500�kids.��

Hope�for�Christmas�is�sponsored�by�A�Fresh�Hope,�a�non-profit�organization�helping�Northwest�Georgia�children�and�their�families.��Hope�for�Christmas,�started�in�2008,�provided�toys�and�Secret�Santa�gifts�for�over�4,300�kids�and�Christmas�food�bags�for�over�1,500�families�in�2010.��

This�partnership�between�Paulding�Christmas,�Inc.�and�Hope�for�Christmas�has�come�about� to� improve� the� distribution� process,� which,� in� turn,� will� hopefully� increase�benefits�to�local�families.�

This�year,�there�are�an�expected�2,000�families�to�come�to�2011�Hope�for�Christmas.�In�order�to�assist�these�families,�it�will�take�approximately�32,000�canned�and�boxed�food� items,� 2,000� turkeys,� 18,000� toys� and� 6,000� gifts� for� the� Secret� Santa� Shop.�Food�items�can�be�donated�or�you�can�sponsor�a�food�bag�for�a�family�for�a�donation�of� $20.00.� The� gifts� needed� for� the� Secret� Santa� Shop� will� include� items� for� chil-dren�to�shop�for�parents�and�grandparents;�both�men�and�women.�The�toys�they’ll�provide�will�be�for�girls�and�boys,�age�birth�to�18�years.�All�gifts�donated�should�be�unwrapped.�

If�your�family�or�business�would�like�to�help�in�meeting�this�tremendous�need,�please�visit�the�website�and�click�on�“How�Can�I�Help?”�at�the�top.�There�you�will�see�a�com-plete�list�of�the�non-perishable�food�items,�Secret�Santa�gift�items,�and�toys�needed.�There�is�a�link�to�make�monetary�donations�through�PayPal,�or�checks�can�be�made�payable�to�A�Fresh�Hope�and�mailed�to:�A�Fresh�Hope,�1720�Mars�Hill�Rd,�Suite�8-296,�Acworth,�GA�30101.�All�donations�are�tax�deductible.�Also,�if�you�would�like�to�become�a�partner�or�sign�your�business�up�as�a�collection�point�for�toys�or�food,�then�please�contact�them�directly.

Registration� to� receive� toys� and� food� for�Christmas� started�November�1st.� �To� reg-ister,� please� visit� www.HopeforChristmas.com.� If� you� don’t� have� access� to� a� com-puter�please�visit�either�Academy�Creek�Community�Center,�563�Paulding�Lane,�on�Mondays�&�Thursdays�10am� to�2pm�or�5pm� to�9pm,�or�West�Ridge�Church,�3522�Hiram-Acworth�Hwy,�on�Tuesdays�and�Wednesdays�10am�to�2pm�or�5pm�to�9pm.�You�can�also�visit�West�Ridge�on�Sundays�between�10:15am�to�11:15am.

Food,� toy,� and� Secret� Santa� donations� can� be� dropped� off� on� Sundays� between�9:00am�to�12:30pm�at�any�of� these� four� locations:�Bethany�Christian�Church,�West�Ridge�Church�at� the�Cartersville,�East�Paulding�and�West�Paulding�Campuses.�Also,�drops� can� be� made� at� Bethany,� Cartersville,� or� the� East� Paulding� sites� Monday� -�Thursday�between�9am�and�5pm.

Toys�and�food�for�both�groups�will�be�distributed�at�Hope�for�Christmas�on�Saturday�December�10th,�starting�at�11:00am.�If�you�would�like�more�information�or�would�like�to�donate�your�time,�food,�new�toys,�or�money,�please�visit�www.HopeforChristmas.com�or�www.PauldingChristmas.org.�

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1. PriceDuring�these�economic�times,�the�cost�of�booking�travel�tends�to�be�the�main�focus�of� many� vacationers.� Travel� professionals� are� able� to� get� travelers� a� better� price�on� their� trip� than� their� online,� self-service� competitors.� There� are� several� reasons�for� this,� including� the� fact� that� many� travel� professionals� have� been� working� with�airlines,�hotels,� cruise� lines,� and�other�providers� for�years�and�can�often�negotiate�better�prices�for�their�customers.�But,�while�price�is�an�important�factor�when�decid-ing�whether� they� should�book� their� travel�plans�with�a� travel�professional,� it� is�by�no�means�the�only�factor.�In�fact,�cheapest�doesn’t�always�mean�best.�Booking�with�a� travel� professional� offers� an� array� of� advantages� over� booking� with� a� self-service�website�and�having�someone�knowledgeable�enough�to�decipher�a�good�deal�versus�a�cheap�deal�is�essential.

2. ValueEqually�as�important�as�price�is�value.�Customers�want�a�good�price,�but�more�impor-tantly,�they�want�to�get�the�most�for�that�price,�especially�when�they’ve�been�awaiting�their� vacation� all� year� long.�Because�of� their�working� relationships�with� suppliers,�travel�professionals�are� in�great�positions� to�not�only�offer� their�customers�a�great�price,�but�a�great�experience�for�that�price.�Even�for�customers�whose�traditions�take�them�to�the�same�vacation�spot�each�year,�booking�through�a�travel�professional�car-ries� a� lot�of�weight�when�you�need�extra�perks�or� run� into�problems.

3. TimeRight�below�price�and�value�is�time,�a�pre-cious� commodity� for� customers� with�busy� week-to-week� schedules.� Being�able� to� sit� down� with� someone� who�plans� trips�on�a�daily�basis� can� save�time� and� frustration� for� customers�who� may� already� be� stressed.� It� is�likely� that� a� lot� of� questions� cus-tomers� would� have� to� answer� by�hours� of� online� research;� a� travel�professional� has� the� answer� to� right�at� his� fingertips.� Travel� professionals�can� also� help� match� your� budget� and�what�kind�of�trip�you’re�looking�for�with�a�destination�you�can�afford�and�enjoy.

4. RelationshipFor�obvious�reasons,�travel�professionals�provide�better�customer�service�than�a�self-service�website.�As�much�as�the�internet�continues�to�improve,�it�does�not�care�if�you�have�a�fantastic�vacation,�whereas�a�travel�specialist�will�always�be�motivated�to�book�the�best�trip�possible�for�their�customers.�Travel�professionals�want�their�customers�to�come�back�and�book�with�them�again,�and�will�go�out�of�their�way�to�make�sure�each�customer�has�the�best�experience�possible.

5. AdvocateLast,�but�certainly�not�least,�travel�professionals�are�your�best�travel�advocates.�Should�anything�go�wrong�with�a� travel�plan,�customers�who�booked�with�a� travel�profes-sional�already�have�a�consumer�advocate�in�place.�Travelers�who�booked�with�a�self-service�site�will�find�themselves�making�phone�calls�to�call�centers�staffed�by�people�they�have�never�met,�who�have�little�to�no�investment�in�whether�or�not�the�customer�comes�back�to�book�with�them�again.

While�the�internet�provides�a�multitude�of�information�for�making�travel�plans,�going�it� alone�won’t� seem� like� such�a� smart�move�once� you� realize� the�expertise� you’ve�been�missing� from�a� travel�professional.�Keep� the� top�5� reasons� for�using�a� travel�professional�at�the�forefront�of�your�mind�before�planning�your�trips�and�you’ll�never�go�back�to�leaving�your�vacations�to�chance.

Precious White is Co-Owner/Manager of FoRP Travel, a Villa Rica based travel com-pany. If you’re ready to book a vacation, contact FoRP Travel at 770.459.7055 or email [email protected]. You may also request a quote at forptravelclub.com.�

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By Precious White

Top 5 Reasons for Using a Travel Professional

Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE 27Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� PAGE 27Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 l [email protected] l OurTownFamily.com� PAGE 27

Leave nothing to chance on your next trip.

FoRP Travel

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1305 Cedarcrest RoadDallas, GA 30132Cedarcrest Commons770.529.1291HOURS Tue 9-5, Wed & Thu 9-7 Fri 9-5, Sat 9-3

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Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools; Rhythm and Notes; The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts; Thumbs Up!; and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2011 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

Educational Child Care for Infants through Private Kindergarten and After School

Introducing a partnership that’s music to a parent’s ears.Rhythm and Notes®, our exclusive ‘school to home’ music curriculum now features music from The Music Class®. Visit our school and learn more about this and many more engaging programs that provide The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts®.

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Primrose School at Bentwater770.529.3925Primrose School at Brookstone770.794.1651Primrose School at Oregon Park770.421.0369

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

is the key to saving money at the pump!Let our technicians give you for your car!

FREE Alignment Check with Tire Purchase.Adjustments extra. Alignment special from $49.95. Expires 12/31/11.

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��Gildan New Mexico Bowl December 17 2:00pm ESPN Albuquerque, NM University Stadium Mountain West vs. PAC-12Famous Idaho Potato Bowl December 17 5:30pm ESPN Boise, ID Bronco Stadium MAC vs. WACR + L Carriers New Orleans Bowl December 17 9:00pm ESPN New Orleans, LA Louisiana Superdome Sun Belt vs. C-USABeef O’Brady’s St. Petersburg Bowl December 20 8:00pm ESPN St. Petersburg, FL Tropicana Field Big East vs. C-USASan Diego CU Poinsettia Bowl December 21 8:00pm ESPN San Diego, CA Qualcomm Stadium Mountain West vs. WACMAACO Bowl Las Vegas December 22 8:00pm ESPN Las Vegas, NV Sam Boyd Stadium Mountain West vs. Pac-12Sheraton Hawaii Bowl December 24 8:00pm ESPN Honolulu, HI Aloha Stadium WAC vs. C-USAAdvocare V100 Independence Bowl December 26 5:00pm ESPN2 Shreveport, LA Independence Stadium ACC vs. Mountain WestLittle Caesar’s Pizza Bowl December 27 4:30pm ESPN Detroit, MI Ford Field MAC vs. Big TenBelk Bowl December 27 8:00pm ESPN Charlotte, NC Bank of America Stadium Big East vs. ACCMilitary Bowl by Northrop Grumman December 28 4:30pm ESPN Washington, DC RFK Stadium ACC vs. NAVYBridgeport Education Holiday Bowl December 28 8:00pm ESPN San Diego, CA Qualcomm Stadium Pac-12 vs. Big XIIChamps Sports Bowl December 29 5:30pm ESPN Orlando, FL Florida Citrus Bowl ACC vs. Big EastValero Alamo Bowl December 29 9:00pm ESPN San Antonio, TX Alamodome Big XII vs. Pac-12Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl December 30 12:00pm ESPN Dallas, TX Gerald Ford Stadium BYU vs. C-USANew Era Pin Stripe Bowl December 30 3:20pm ESPN Bronx, NY Yankee Stadium Big East vs. Big XIIFranklin America Mort Music City Bowl December 30 6:40pm ESPN Nashville, TN LP Field ACC vs. SECInsight Bowl December 30 10:00pm ESPN Tempe, AZ Sun Devil Stadium Big XII vs. Big TenMeineke Car Care Bowl December 31 12:00pm ESPN Charlotte, NC Bank of America Stadium Big XII vs. Big TenHyundai Sun Bowl December 31 2:00pm CBS El Paso, TX Sun Bowl Stadium Pac-12 vs. ACCAutoZone Liberty Bowl December 31 3:30pm ABC Memphis, TN Liberty Bowl C-USA vs. SECKraft Fight Hunger Bowl December 31 3:30pm ESPN San Francisco, CA AT&T Park Pac-12 vs. ARMYChick-fil-A Bowl December 31 7:30pm ESPN Atlanta, GA Georgia Dome ACC vs. SECTicketCity Bowl January 2 12:00pm ESPNU Dallas, TX Cotton Bowl Stadium C-USA vs. Big XIICapital One Bowl January 2 1:00pm ESPN Orlando, FL Florida Citrus Bowl Big Ten vs. SECTaxSlayer.com Gator Bowl January 2 1:00pm ESPN2 Jacksonville, FL Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Big Ten vs. SECOutback Bowl January 2 1:00pm ABC Tampa, FL Raymond James Stadium Big Ten vs. SECRose Bowl presented by VIZIO January 2 5:00pm ESPN Pasadena, CA Rose Bowl Pac-12 vs. Big TenTostitos Fiesta Bowl January 2 8:30pm ESPN Glendale, AZ Univ. of Phoenix Stadium Big XII vs. BCSAllState Sugar Bowl January 3 8:30pm ESPN New Orleans, LA Louisiana Superdome BCS vs. SECDiscover Orange Bowl January 4 8:30pm ESPN Miami, FL Sun Life Stadium ACC Champ vs. BCS AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic January 6 8:00pm FOX Arlington, TX Cowboy Stadium SEC vs. Big XIIBBVA Compass Bowl January 7 1:00pm ESPN Birmingham, AL Legion Field Big East vs. SECGoDADDY.Com Bowl January 8 9:00pm ESPN Mobile, AL Ladd Peebles Stadium Sun Belt vs. MACAllstate BCS National Championship January 9 9:00pm ESPN New Orleans, LA Louisiana Superdome BCS #1 vs. BCS #2Times and channels may be subject to change. For more information on these games, visit footballbowlassociation.com or go the Bowl’s website.

ere�is�OUR�TOWN’s�fourth�annual�list�of�college�bowl�games.�Hopefully�with�this�

handy� schedule,� you’ll� be� able�to� get� a� good� idea� of� what� you�want� to� watch� and� when.� The�big� disappointment� this� year� is�there�will�be�NO�games�on�New�Year’s� Day� since� it� falls� on� Sun-day;� this� includes� the� 123rd� An-nual�Tournament�of�Rose�Parade,�which� will� also� air� on� Monday,�January� 2.� Regardless,� it� will� be�great� fun�watching�these�college�teams�throw�around�the�pig�skin!�So,� clean� up� the� big� screen,� in-vite�some�friends�over,�grab�some�snacks,�and�ENJOY!

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Our Town For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected] PAGE 29

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

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Our services include:n General maintenance n Lawn seedingn Tree and shrub caren Landscape designn Fence/rock wall constructionn Mulching bedsn Fertilization And more!

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Serving all of West Georgia

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Not many people actually have the time or patience to tend to their landscaping.

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��By Jerry Clifford

ou’ve� tended� your� gardens� all� summer� and� enjoyed� the� bright� colors�and� fragrant�blooms�that�resulted� from�your�work.�Now�that�winter� is�coming,�don’t�stop�there;�you�can�continue�to�have�a�stunning�landscape�

throughout�the�cooler�months.�

Here are some twists on old ideas that can help turn your yard into a winter won-derland.

During�the�holidays,�homeowners�love�to�string�icicle�lights� across� the� eaves� or� outline� windows� on� the�front�of�the�house.�While�it’s�common�practice�to�do�so,�it�is�so�...�common.�

�� Mini� lights� strung� on� a� Christmas� tree� have� an�almost� magical� effect.� Why� not� create� some� of� that�magic� outdoors� in� your� garden?� Hang� strands� of�mini� lights� around� evergreen� trees,� shrubs,� or� flow-ering� hedges;� taking� care� to� avoid� any� bare� trunks�or�branches.� If�you�have�an�outdoor�statue,�create�a�necklace�out�of�bittersweet,�add�some�lights�and�hang�it� around� the� figure’s� neck.� Layer� spruce,� cedar,� or�other�evergreens�through�the�slats�on�a�garden�trellis,�arbor�or�pergola.�Add�some�berries�or�pine�cones�and�highlight�with�mini-lights.�

� � � � Natural� evergreen� wreaths� with� bright� bows� make� a� fence� or� post� come� alive,�especially�with�added�lights.�

��Window�boxes,�cast�iron�planters�or�other�containers�can�benefit�from�the�same�treatment.�Just�use�plenty�of�layering�with�natural�foliage�and�extend�it�over�the�edges�as�though�it�were�over�flowing.�Add�some�colorful�accents�and�lights.

Once�you�empty�your�summer�planters,�don’t�put�them�away,�now�it’s�time�to�begin�your� winter� arrangement.� You’ll� be� dealing� with� dead� plant� material� so� there� will�be� no� worrying� about� watering� or� fertilizing.� Look� to� pine,� spruce� or� cedar� ever-green�sprigs,�dogwood�branches,�berries,�ivy,�boxwood,�holly�or�ornamental�grasses.�Supplement�your�finds�with�some�hardy�dried�plants�such�as�heather,�roses,�or�cone�flowers.�Concentrate�not�only�on�color,�but�using�a�variety�of�shapes�and�textures�as�well.�

Next�spring,�consider�adding�some�garden�plants�for�their�winter�landscaping�value.�Good� choices� include� red-twig� dogwood,� holly,� hemlocks,� creeping� cotoneasters,�climbing�hydrangea,�river�birches,�Japanese�variegated�silver�grass,�blue�oat�grass�and�sedges.�

The�great�thing�about�this�type�of�landscaping,�with�no�obvious�themes,�it�still�looks�great�long�after�the�holidays�are�over.

gard

enin

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Y

Turn�Your�Yard�into�a�

Winter Wonderland

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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 how your Georgia State tax liability can create scholarships for qualified Georgia students.

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Powder Springs, GA 30127678-831-1062

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t’s�beginning�to�sound�“A�lot�Like�Christmas”�around�here!��The�Christmas�holidays�are�filled�with�tradition,�family,�and�most�of�

all� love.� We’ve� put� together� some� inter-esting� facts� about� this� beloved� holiday�

which�you�may�or�may�not�know,�and�may�even�make�you�the�“Christmas�Trivia�Expert”�at�your�holiday�gatherings�this�year.��Enjoy!

l�The�word�Christmas�is�Old�English,�a�contrac-tion�of�Christ’s�Mass.

l�The�Archangel�Gabriel� told�Mary� she�was�going�to�have�a�baby.

l� Traditionally,� Christmas� trees� are� taken� down� after�Epiphany,�which�is�the�12th�day�after�Christmas.�

l� Epiphany� is� a� Christian� holiday� on� January� 6� cel-ebrating� the�visit�of� the�Magi� to� the� infant� Jesus�and� is�primarily�observed�by�Orthodox,�Catholic�and�Anglican�Christians.

l�The�first�state�to�recognize�the�Christmas�holiday�offi-cially�was�Alabama.

l� Christmas� became� a� national� holiday� in� America� on�June,�26,�1870.

l�The�song�“Joy�to�the�World”�is�about�Jesus’�projected�return,�not�his�birth.

l� The� first� President� to� decorate� the� White� House�Christmas�tree�in�the�United�States�was�Franklin�Pierce.

l�Germany�made�the�first�artificial�Christmas�trees.�They�were�made�of�goose�feathers�

and�dyed�green.

l�Electric�lights�for�trees�were�first�used�in�1895.

l�The�first�Christmas�cards�were�Vintage�and�invented�in�1843,�the�Victorian�Era.

l� “It’s� a�Wonderful� Life”� appears�on� TV� more� often� than� any� other�

holiday�movie.

l� “Rudolf� the� Red� Nosed� Reindeer”�was� actually� created� by� department� store�

chain�Montgomery�Ward�in�the�late�1930’s�for�a�holiday�promotion.�

l�The�Nutcracker�is�the�most�famous�Christmas�ballet.

l�Jingle�Bells�was�initially�written�for�Thanksgiving�and�then�became�one�of�the�most�popular�Christmas�songs.

l� Jingle� Bells� was� the� first� song� sung� in� space� on�December�16,�1965�by�astronauts�Tom�Stafford�and�Wally�Schirra�on�Gemini�6.�

l�If�you�received�all�of�the�gifts�in�the�song�“The�Twelve�Days�of�Christmas,”�you�would�receive�364�gifts.

l� The� poinsettia� plant� was� brought� into� the� United�States� from�Mexico�by�Joel�Poinsett� in�the�early�1800’s.�Contrary� to� common� belief,� poinsettia� plants� are� non-toxic.

l�Holly�berries�are�poisonous.

l� In�1843,�“A�Christmas�Carol”�was�written�by�Charles�Dickens�in�just�six�weeks.

l� Black� Friday� is� not� the� busiest� shopping� day� of� the�year.� Although� it� varies,� it� usually� lands� sometime� in�December.

l�More�diamonds�are�sold�around�Christmas�than�any�other�time�of�the�year.

l� There� are� over� 40,694,463� artificial� trees� on� dis-play� during� the� holiday� season,� as� compared� to� the�34,335,809�real�trees�on�display.

l�There�are�180�Barbie�dolls�sold�every�minute�around�the�world.

l� More� than� 4,000,000� TONS� of� trash� is� generated�annually�from�the�gift�wrap�and�shopping�bags.

l�The�word�mistletoe�actually�means�“dung�twig.”

l�A�Jewish�man�named,�Johnny�Marks,�wrote�“Rockin’�around� the� Christmas� Tree”� and� a� few� other� classic�Christmas�songs.

l�In�Mexico,�wearing�red�underwear�on�New�Year’s�Eve�is�said�to�bring�new�love�in�the�upcoming�year.

What�to�find�more�fun�trivia�facts�about�Christmas,�includ-ing� traditions,�songs,�movies,�etc?�Visit�ChristmasTrivia.net.�

Iseas

onal Christmas Holiday Trivia

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

OPEN HOUSEDec 1, 7 PM(Middle & High)

Jan 10, 7 PM(All Grades)

Bridal and Formal Wear4374 Atlanta HwySuite 127Hiram, GA 30141Located in Westside Pavilion678-919-1072

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Mark Salsberry, M.D. H 678-224-5730Wellstar Family medicine2487 cedarcrest road, suite 714 H acworth, Ga 30101

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OUR TOWN

hristmas is Just Around the CornerAdvertise Your Business

for the Holidays inC

Hiram s Dallas s Cedarcrest s New Hope

Call for Rates! [email protected]

770.222.2699 l [email protected]

edito

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tter Merry Christmas

& Happy New Year!ach�of�you�who�read�and�advertise�in�our�magazine�is�truly�a�gift� from�God,�and�we�are�thankful�for�you�every�day.�It�is�a�blessing�to�live�in�a�country�where�we�can�freely�worship�and�give�thanks�to�the�Savior�who�

was�sent�to�us�over�2,000�years�ago.�

We�pray�God�will�bless�each�of�your�lives,�your�businesses,�and�your�families�with�health;�that�he�will�meet�your�financial�needs,�free�you�from�burdens,�and�bless�you�with�a�wonderful�and�Merry�Christmas!

MAY�GOD�BLESS�YOU�ALL�and�MERRY�CHRISTMAS!

��Teresa�&�Jules

E

DECEMBERCROSSWORD SOLUTION

Become an Our Town Fan on !ourtownfamily.com

OTOops! So sorry! We goofed up on the Cross-word Puzzle last month! We posted the corrected version on our Facebook page for puzzle enthusi-asts to download. If that ever happens again, and we certainly hope it won’t, please check online or Facebook.

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

By Rebecca Neal

he�colder�months�are�approaching,�and�although�we�live�in�the�South,�the� weather� can� get� downright� cold.� � While� we� walk� around� in� our�winter�boots�and� jackets,�our�pets�only�have� their� fur�and�bare�paws�

to�keep� them�warm.�Even� though� the� snow�and� frost� covered� lawns�and� trees�are�beautiful,�it�still�can�get�too�cold�for�your�pet�to�spend�the�night�outside,�so�bring�him�inside�if�the�nighttime�lows�are�too�cold.�Furthermore,�it�is�necessary�to�pay�attention�to�your�pet’s�health�and�grooming�in�the�winter.�Your�pet�will�need�special�grooming�in�these�winter�months�if�he�is�going�to�brave�the�cold�elements!

Pets’ paws:�Be�sure�to�pay�close�attention�to�nails,�paw�pads,�and�hair�growth�around�the� feet�when� the� temperatures�drop�and� it�gets� snowy�and� icy.�Although�we� typi-cally�don’t�get�too�much�snow,�we�still�need�to�be�careful�with�our�pets.�Encrusted�snow�and�ice�in�paw�pads�can�cause�them�to�bleed.�Remember�to�wipe�off�any�salt�or�chemicals�used�to�melt�ice�as�these�can�make�your�dog�sick�if�he�licks�his�paws�with�the�chemicals�on�them.�Also,�exercise�is�just�as�important�during�the�winter�months,�so�if�you�are�traveling�or�working�long�hours�you�might�want�to�hire�a�local�neighbor�or�dog�walker.

Snowballs on fur:�If�you�have�a�small�or�shorthaired�dog,�they�may�be�more�sensitive�to�the�cold.�In�the�cold�wintry�weather,�try�a�coat�or�sweater�on�your�pet—it�might�make�them�feel�warmer!�If�your�dog�comes�inside�with�snowballs�hanging�from�his�fur,�use�a�warm�washcloth�to�get�them�off.��If�you�leave�them�in,�they�could�mat�up�and�cause�skin� irritation,� so�be�sure� to�comb� them�out!�Also,� show�your� family�or�doggie� care�provider�how� to� remove� them�so� they�know�what� to�do�when�you’re�away�from�home.

Bathing:�Dogs�still�need�baths�in�the�winter�months,�especially�since�they�can�develop�skin� irritations� just� like�humans.�Use� a�moisturizing� shampoo�and� conditioner� for�your�dog�to�keep�him�from�excessive�scratching�and�a�dull�coat.�Never�let�your�pet�go�outside�in�the�cold�temperatures�with�a�wet�coat;�try�using�a�hair�dryer�at�a�cool�setting�to�help�you�dry�the�coat�quicker.

Salt on the Driveway or Roads:�If�you�salt�your�driveway,�be�sure�it�is�“pet�safe.”�Reg-ular�salt� is� too�harsh�on�your�pet’s�paws�and�can�cause�burning—signs�of�burning�include�redness,�swelling,�or�your�pet�may�lick�or�chew�on�his�feet.�If�your�pet�goes�on�several�walks�a�day,�be�sure�to�wipe�your�pet’s�paws�off�before�he�comes�in�the�house.�If�you�have�a�dog�walker,�be�sure�to�have�them�do�this�as�well.

Car engines:� �One� of� the� problems� when� the� temperature� drops� is� a� tendency� for�outdoor�cats� to� sleep�under� the�hoods�of� cars.�Bang�on� the�hood�of� your�car�and�wait�a�few�minutes�before�starting�the�engine.�A�car’s�fan�belt�can�kill�or�injure�a�cat�when�the�motor�is�started.�On�days�that�you�know�will�be�extremely�cold,�it�might�be�a�good�idea�to�keep�your�cat�inside!

Caring�for�a�pet�is�a�big�responsibility�and�shouldn’t�be�taken�lightly.�You�are�responsi-ble�for�making�sure�your�pet�maintains�a�healthy�diet,�gets�plenty�of�exercise,�receives�regular�vaccinations,�and�is�groomed�properly.�So�enjoy�the�holidays�and�remember�to�give�your�pet�the�warm,�loving�care�they�deserve�this�season!�

Tpet

pag

e

= Emergencies accepted= Laser Surgery and therapy= Radiology and ultrasound

= Senior citizen discount= Multiple pet discount= Boarding indoor/outdoor= 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

Hiram Animal HospitalEstablished 1985

Full Service Medical & Pet Care Facility

Available for Adoption: HUMPHREY (DOB ~3/17/2011), a gorgeous, feisty, and rambunc-tious orange tabby and white domestic shorthair, and BOGART (DOB ~3/17/2011), a gorgeous, feisty, and rambunctious brown tabby do-mestic shorthair, were both rescued from someone giving away kittens in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Our VP talked the that person into giving her the cats so we could find them appropriate homes. HUMPHREY and BOGART are both full of themselves, full of kitten antics, and will certainly provide their new family(s) with loads of laughter and love! Both HUMPHREY and BOGART are neutered, up-to-date with age appropriate vaccines, negative for Feline FIV/FeLV/FHW, microchipped, dewormed, have received flea and ear mite preventative, and are eligible to receive at least 30 days of prepaid pet health insurance at the time of adoption. The adoption fee for either HUMPHREY or BOGART is $125.00; but if you decide to adopt both of them together (they’ve never been separated!), the adoption fee is reduced to $200.00.

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

Fancy Feline Rescue of the South is a non-profit, no-kill rescue organization dedicated 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]

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

Maggie May was adopted when she was 5 months old for my mother, who recently passed away from a 4 year battle with Ovarian Cancer. My mother loved this beautiful kitty more than she ever thought she could. Maggie is such a wonderful and special kitty who loves endless amounts of kisses, hugs and cuddles!

Pets of the month

December Pet Spotlight

Maggie May

Humphrey

Bogart

Winter Pet Grooming


�

ne� of� the� more� “festive”� looking� candies� is� the�vibrant�white�and�red�of�the�candy�can�or�a�piece�of�peppermint.�Because�of� its�beautiful�color�and� invigorat-

ing� taste,� peppermint� is� the� perfect� addition� to� many� types� of� Christmas�recipes.�

Peppermint Snowballs1�cup�butter,�softened1/2�cup�confectioners’�sugar1�teaspoon�pure�vanilla�extract2-1/2�cups�all-purpose�flour1/2�cup�ground�nuts,�optional

TOPPING:1/2�cup�crushed�peppermint�candies1/2�cup�confectioners’�sugar

Cream�butter�and�sugar�until�light�and�fluffy;�beat�in�vanilla.�Gradually�add�flour.�Stir�in�nuts�if�desired.�Knead�dough�until�smooth�and�elastic.�Cover�and�refrigerate�for�1�hour.�Combine�filling�ingredients.�Roll�tablespoonfuls�of�dough�into�balls.�Using�the�end�of�a�wooden�spoon�handle,�make�a�deep�indentation�in�the�center�of�each.�Fill�with�1/4� teaspoon� filling.�Cover�with�dough;� seal� and� reshape� into�balls.�Combine�topping�ingredients;�roll�balls�in�topping.�Place�1”�apart�on�ungreased�baking�sheets.�Bake�at�350°�for�12-14�min.�or�until�firm.�Roll�warm�cookies�in�remaining�topping;�

cool�on�wire�racks.�Yield:�4�dozen.

Peppermint Bark6�ounces�semi�sweet�chocolate,�coarsely�chopped2�teaspoons�vegetable�oil�6�ounces�white�chocolate,�coarsely�chopped1/3�-�1/2�cup�crushed�peppermint�candy�or�candy�canes

Line�the�bottom�and�sides�of�an�8”�square�baking�pan�with�foil.�Melt� the� semi� sweet� chocolate� and�1� teaspoon�of� vegetable�oil.�

Pour� into� prepared� pan,� tilting� to� make� the� chocolate� into� even�layer.�Refrigerate�30�minutes.�Repeat�with�white�chocolate,�then�sprin-

kle�crushed�candy�canes�evenly�over�the�white�chocolate.�Refrigerate�until�set.�Remove�the�bark�by�lifting�the�edges�from�the�foil�and�breaking�into�small�irregular�pieces.�Store�in�an�airtight�container.�Makes�about�25�pieces.

Peppermint Chocolate Sandwich Cookies1�(16.5�ounce)�tube�refrigerated�sugar�cookie�dough1/4�cup�all-purpose�flour�plus�extra�for�dusting2�cups�semisweet�chocolate�chips,�divided1/4�cup�heavy�cream�1�teaspoon�pure�peppermint�extract1�teaspoon�vegetable�oilDecorating suggestion:� crushed�candy�canes�or�peppermint�can-dies;�white,�red�and�green�sprinkles;�or�red�and�green�decorating�sugar.

Position�an�oven�rack� in� the� lower� third�of� the�oven.�Preheat�oven� to�350..�Line�2�baking�sheets�with�parchment�paper.�Knead�together�cookie�dough�and�1/4�cup�flour�until�smooth.�On�a�lightly�floured�work�surface,�roll�out�dough�to�¼”�thick.�Using�a�2�½”�cookie�cutter,�cut�out�24�circles.�Place�the�dough�circles�on�the�prepared�bak-ing�sheets.�Bake�until�cookies�have�slightly�golden�edges,�about�10�minutes.�Transfer�to� a� wire� rack� to� cool� completely.� Reserve� 1� parchment� paper-lined� baking� sheet.�Combine�1�cup�of�chocolate�chips�and�the�cream.�Melt�chocolate�until�the�mixture�is�smooth.�Whisk�in�the�peppermint�extract�and�refrigerate�mixture�for�1�hour.�Using�a�½�ounce�scoop,�place�chocolate�mixture�in�the�center�of�the�flat�side�of�12�of�the�cookies.� Place� the� remaining� cookies� on� top� and� gently� squeeze� to� distribute� the�filling�evenly.�Place�on�a�baking� sheet�and� freeze�until� the� filling�has� set,� about�25�minutes.�Combine�remaining�chocolate�chips�and�the�vegetable�oil.�Melt�until�choco-late�is�smooth.�Dip�the�top�of�each�cookie�in�the�melted�chocolate�and�return�to�the�baking� sheet.� Sprinkle� the� tops� with� crushed� candy� canes� or� peppermint� candies.�Refrigerate�until�firm.�Store�in�an�airtight�container.

Across1.�Bonkers5.�Absolute�worst9.�Ride14.�___�Minor15.�Airport�Codes16.�Sheik’s�bevy17.�Holiday�desserts19.�Nitrogen�compound20.�___-relief21.�Recite�radily23.�Bolivian�export24.�Harmony26.�Violate28.�Christiania,�now29.�Additional32.�“Mi�chiamano�Mimi,”��e.g.33.�Churchill’s�“so�few”:��Abbr.35.�Traditional�church��musician37.�Balaam’s�mount40.�Fought42.�Absorbed,�as�a�cost43.�Flock�leader45.�“For�shame!”47.�Legal�prefix48.�Elite�military�unit50.�Bawdy54.�Agent�that�induces��sickness56.�Orange-red�mineral58.�Amscrayed59.�PA�University62.�Mail�place:�Abbr.63.�Serpent65.�Hormone/��neurotransmitter67.�Downy�duck68.�Duff69.�Do,�for�example70.�Lilac,�e.g.71.�Adjusts,�as�a�clock72.�Auspices

Down1.�Cane�material2.�Some�Russians3.�Christmas�tree�decor4.�Amniotic�___5.�McCartney�albumn6.�Most�frozen7.�Old�Chinese�money8.�“Eh”9.�Refuse10.�Starchy�tuber11.�Standards�of�judgement12.�_______�Marxism13.�To�make�textual��corrections18.�“...�___�he�drove�out��of�sight”22.�Flowers�to�remember25.�“___�any�drop�to�drink”:��Coleridge27.�Supporter30.�Crush31.�“To�___�is�human�...”34.�___�Wednesday36.�“Much�___��About�Nothing”

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PAGE �6 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • [email protected]� Our Town

And boy, is it paying off. By sealing all the air ducts in my home

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