youth august-september

Annie Kreitzis in charge back stage

2 Youth Magazine | August-September 2014

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Vince JohnsonPublisher

Kevin AtwillEditor

Adlen RobinsonDirector of Content

Ryan GarmonAdvertising Director

Micah GreenCrystal Ledford

Megan ReedPhotographers

Chris CampbellGraphic Design

Crystal LedfordMegan Reed

Contributing Writers

Study Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

BYOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Tech Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

12 Home on the RanchWhat began as a place for children to take horseback-riding lessons has since evolved.

17 Get Some SleepSleep is so critically important for our bodies, yet so many people — teenagers, in particular — routinely don’t get enough.

18 Back to SchoolTablets lead the way for what’s hot as kids head to class.

22 At the MoviesSummer blockbusters are still rolling out.

.

contents

8 Flair for the dramatic Senior focused on theater17

2218 12

Youth Magazineis published bimonthly by the Forsyth County News Co.,302 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30040.

Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request.Contact Ryan Garmon at

(770) 205-8960 or [email protected].

Follow us online atforsythnews.com



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Who can believe school is back in session? In this issue of Youth, you’ll � nd several articles aimed at helping

you get motivated and back in “school mode.” Do you buy lunch or bring your own? Check

out my article on “brown bagging” for some ideas to make bringing lunch more feasible.

There is also a story on study strategies, as well as a piece on how to get enough sleep.

Also, be sure to read about Annie Kreitz, who has worked back stage at local theater productions. Who knew those who work behind the scenes do so much to make a performance a success?

Also, check out the article on Barefoot Ranch. I love that there is a local horse farm so devoted to helping children with special needs.

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Adlen W. Robinson is an award-winning columnist and feature writer who has been a contributor to the Forsyth County News for more than a decade. Adlen has lived in Forsyth County with husband Paul for 24 years and they have four children. Author of “Home Matters: � e Guide to Organizing Your Life and Home,” Adlen is also busy working on her � rst cookbook.

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Flair for the dramatic

The average 17-year-old usually has no idea what she wants to do when she grows up. But Annie Kreitz is no average young woman.

When the rising senior graduates from South Forsyth High School and heads o� to college, she plans on majoring in theater or some technical aspect of the craft in hopes of entering the world of production.

Kreitz was bitten by the theater bug in eighth grade when she was part of the ensemble in “Big River,” the story of Huckleberry Finn, at The Cumming Playhouse.

Because it was her � rst show, Kreitz was a little nervous about auditioning. So she begged her father, Doug, to go with her and also audition.

“My dad did theater in high school, so I

knew he was probably happy to go with me,” she said.

When both landed parts in the show, Kreitz said her father was thrilled.

“He absolutely loved it,” she said. “We both had such a great experience. It was so fun, I just knew I wanted to do more shows.”

It was at the Playhouse that Kreitz met Leigh Ann Cannady, the musical director of the show. Cannady took immediately to Kreitz, whom she saw as multi-talented.

After the show concluded its run, Kreitz began taking private voice lessons from Cannady at Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts, where she serves as artistic director and owner.

“That is when I really got to know Annie and her amazing family,” said Cannady, adding that she saw her pupil gravitate

Flair for the dramatic

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Her interest in theater has taken Annie Kreitz, a senior at South Forsyth High School, behind the scenes. She recently served as the stage hand for the Forsyth Academy of Per-forming Arts’ production of “Oklahoma” at the Cumming Playhouse.

Page 10Annie Kreitz, 17, was the stage hand for the recent produc-tion of “Oklahoma” at the Cumming Playhouse, which also featured her father Doug, left. The two landed parts in “Big River” several years ago, an experience that launched her interest in theater.


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toward the technical side of theater. And as that progression occurred, Cannady was all too happy to use Kreitz in various shows and performances.

“Annie is just a dream,” she said. “She’s responsible, motivated, determined, focused and always looking for ways to grow and exceed expectations. She is on

her way to becoming a phenomenal leader.“Annie is always professional, organized, focused,

respectful and, of course, qualified. She finds ways to add value to every situation in which she finds herself.”

According to Cannady, Kreitz “wears many hats when it comes to doing a show.”

“One minute she is doing the lights, the next she is playing improvisation games with the younger kids who are waiting until it is their time to go on,” she said. “She truly is a fabulous addition to whatever show she is working on.”

For her part, Kreitz said she loves staying busy and is always working on one show or another. Most recently, she was the stage hand for “Oklahoma” at the Cumming Playhouse, for which Cannady was the producer and musical director. The cast included Kreitz’ father.

Stage managing involves many duties, such as attending every rehearsal and learning everyone’s “blocking,” or movements on stage. It also includes checking roll at rehearsals, ensuring everyone is where they’re supposed to be and calling breaks.

Once the show opened, Kreitz handled all of the scene changes and communication between the cast onstage and the sound and lighting crew. She

11Youth Magazine | August-September 2014

also called everyone to their places and checked the set and props each night to ensure everything was in order.

Also among Kreitz’s theater highlights are trips the last two years to the Junior Theater Festival at the Cobb Energy Center. She went with a group from Forsyth Academy of Performing Arts.

The event is produced by New York City-based ITheatrics and sponsored by Music Theatre International and Disney Musicals. Hailed as the “biggest and best festival,” it drew thousands of students and teachers from across the United States for a chance to perform and attend workshops led by Broadway professionals.

After performing and competing with other groups at the festival, Kreitz was chosen for all-stars both years. Her prize?

“You get up at 5 a.m. and you get to help run the show,” she said. “I got to do the spotlight one year and the microphones another. It was really awesome.”

She added that meeting young people from all over the country who share her love and passion for all things theatrical was a great experience. “I cannot wait to go back.”

This fall, Kreitz will serve as stage manager for the academy’s production of “Alice in Wonderland.” Then in January, the group will once again return to Atlanta for the Junior Theatre Festival.

“I love being a part of the community theater world,” Kreitz said. “When you are in a production, whether you are on stage or behind the scenes, you really become like a family.

“For me, seeing the group from the fi rst time the cast and crew meet each other, through the rehearsals, and then fi nally seeing the completion of the show is simply incredible.”

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What do you get when you put together horse-loving friends who have been riding together for 40 years and are all about helping children? Bearfoot Ranch!

� e north Forsyth ranch was established in 1997 by Darrith Russell, Melanie Vaughan and Edie Ahola, who had traveled and rode horses all over the country before deciding to settle down and open a business.

What began as a place for children to take horseback-riding lessons has since evolved into a nonpro� t that includes horse therapy and rescue components, as well as serving as the base for Forsyth County’s Special Olympics equestrian team.

“We love children and especially those with special needs,” Russell said. “We are all about teaching children to respect the horses.”

� e transformation didn’t occur overnight. Russell and friends gave private riding lessons on a dozen or so horses at ranch until about 2007.

At that time, with the economy faltering, the women came in contact with a therapeutic horse farm in � nancial

crisis. Bearfoot o� ered a free pasture for the group’s horses and then began helping it with lessons and other tasks.

“� ere were things we saw that we knew we would do di� erently,” Russell said. “And as time went on, we decided this was something we really wanted to do.”

Besides their common love of horses and children, the folks from Bearfoot and the farm each brought di� erent talents to the program.

Ginger Smith and Rachelle Dunn joined the group in 2009. Shortly after that, Ahola earned her PATH certi� cation.

PATH stands for Professions Association of � erapeutic Horsemanship, which promotes equine-assisted therapies and activities for adults and children who have special needs. In 2010, the ranch received nonpro� t status.

� e ranch provides a safe and e� ective environment, as safety is the key to everything there.

“All of our sta� is CPR and First Aid-certi� ed, and we insist on proper helmets and footwear,” Russell said.

While the ranch o� ers riding lessons to children and individuals with special needs, the sta� also teaches other aspects.

“We want our riders to know how to care for a horse, how to properly load a horse into a trailer, just everything they could possibly need to know about the animal,” she said.

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experience,” Russell said. “We never went into this for the money. We just all have such a passion for both horses and helping children, that is what keeps us going.”

For years, Bearfoot’s staff and many of its riders dreamed of one day fielding a Special Olympics equestrian team in Forsyth County.

“In 2012 we were approached by a group that was trying to start a team, and when we heard the amount they were being quoted, we couldn’t believe it,” Russell said. “The costs were ridiculously high and they simply couldn’t afford it.”

After meeting with her board of directors, Russell decided Bearfoot would help.

“We offered to teach lessons for $25 and also to transport the horses to the Special Olympics at no cost,” she said.

Russell was quick to say that the community also rallied to help make the team a reality.

“I cannot say enough about The Snooty Fox and their generous donations to the team,” Russell said. “They donated about $8,000 worth of quality tack that first year alone.”

According to Russell, the ranch is a completely volunteer operation that receives no state or federal grants.

“All of our riders volunteer at the Special Olympics,” she said. “We want our riders to understand how to care for the horses and also the importance of helping others.

“We always say we want our riders to reach their potential through the love of horses.”

The ranch is also a horse rescue facility. “We work closely with local authorities to rescue and

rehabilitate horses that have been abused or neglected,” Russell said. “We want to help find the perfect match for every horse we rescue. Sometimes, a horse just needs to be retrained and it will be just right for someone.”

The next Special Olympics Games is set for Oct. 10-12 at the Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center in nearby Gainesville.

“We always need volunteers,” Russell said. “Even if someone can only come one day a week for a few hours, that would be so helpful to us.”

Russell said Bearfoot Ranch also welcomes groups interested in taking on a service project.

Ð Adlen W. Robinson

ContactThe address for Bearfoot Ranch is 5150 Oak Grove Circle, Cumming, GA 30028. For more information, call (678) 805-7433.

With determination written all over their faces, a group of triathletes readied themselves for an afternoon of practice.

Luckily, the intermittent rain that day hadn’t led to any downpours or thunder and lightning, because these cyclists were ready to go.

One by one, they pulled their human-powered vehicles up to a chalk-drawn “start line.” Clicks of helmet straps under chins signaled they were ready to get going.

But these weren’t the typical helmets.

One featured two matching pink triangles on top and a purple cheetah print just above its wearer’s forehead; another, a line of bright orange spikes resembling a Mohawk. Yet another featured the wide, white toothy grin and round green face of mutant cartoon hero.

While they may have been young, most of the riders seemed just as serious about

their training as adults who take part in triathlons. And that’s a good thing, since these young riders

ranging in age from 6 to 15 will be facing some tough competition from across metro Atlanta next month.

Some 130 kids are in training through the Forsyth County Family YMCA for the Atlanta Kids Triathlon on Aug. 24 at the West Gwinnett Park and Aquatics Center in Norcross.

While there, they’ll have to swim, bike and then run. Th is the fourth year the local Y has off ered a free

training program in preparation of the triathlon. Kerry Carithers, one of the main organizers, said there

has been so much interest in the previous programs that two sessions were off ered this year.

Th e fi rst is for kids who have not competed in the event before, or those who have done so just once, while the second session is for children who have taken part twice or more.

“Th is year we opened our second group that’s more competitive for the kids who have done this a couple of times already,” said Rebecca Kayati, a YMCA employee who helps with the program.

“It’s good because now they can come back and be a little more competitive.”

Between both sessions, some 130 kids are taking part in the training, which is open to anyone regardless of whether they are a YMCA member.

“We have the largest training program in the association so we take great pride in that,” Carithers said.

During the program Ð which is not accepting any new participants, though kids can still register for the triathlon without going through the training Ð children


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YMCA trainer Kim McKenna helps kids get ready for a triathlon training session.

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learn all about what it takes to compete in that type of physical challenge.

“That’s the hard part is learning the rules that go with it,” Carithers said. “If they don’t follow those rules, they’ll get disqualified.

“So we work a lot on things like which side they are allowed to pass on and quickness in transitions [between events]. And last week, we worked on bike safety Ð checking tires and helmets and looking at the track itself.”

Parents and other community members who come to support the kids as they train say the program is a winner.

“I want them to be fit kids so I’m going to try to do this program every year from now on,” said LaShay Young, whose sons Kaiden, 8, and Koi, 6, are first-time participants.

“It’s great and they love it. They look forward to it every week. They do flag football, swim sessions and stuff like that so they’re really into this.”

Beth Buursema, community outreach manager for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Forsyth, said the children’s hospital is happy to sponsor the program.

“This is our second year helping because it’s such a win-win for us to be able to see a program where it’s open to everybody in the community, that’s teaching kids how to do a triathlon and getting them motivated,” she said.

“And then to see their families out here being active with them, it’s all just a win-win.”

Kayati noted that many parents have been inspired by their children to get more fit.

“Some parents say, ‘Oh, my kids are doing this so maybe I should try too,’” she said. “Plus it makes the kids hopefully get their parents to go out with them. You know, they say, ‘I have to run today. Will you please come with me or take me to the trail.’”

Carithers’ husband, R.C., who is an active volunteer with the program, said that’s so important in today’s world, in which childhood obesity and lack of activity are big problems.

“It seems like kids these days are spending a lot of time inside on the computer,” he said. “I think kids today get preoccupied with a lot of other things, so this is a good way to get them outside, get them active.”

But the kids just seem to have fun.

“I like that we take classes almost, but we also have fun at the same time that we’re working,” said 10-year-old Aplorva Gangaraju, who is also a first-time participant.

She said she the program was a good fit.“I love running, so every time I play with my friends,

I always ask, ‘Are we running or biking?’” she said. “I love doing sports. I do ice skating and tennis and stuff, so I really like being active.

“I think the triathlon is going to be fun. I’m excited because there will be lots of other people and I’m kind of a competitive person, even though it’s not really a race.”

Ð Crystal Ledford


While it still feels quite summer-like outside, school is in session and that means homework, tests, projects and research papers.

Don’t let the school year get away from you. Take a little time now, at the beginning, to get organized and prepared to take on the best and most successful year ever.

Here are some strategies sure to ensure success.

�•�Have�the�proper�supplies�and�tools.�Notebooks, paper, pens, pencils, tape, graph paper, calculator, etc. Also be sure to have a desk or regular study place that has a comfortable chair and good lighting. �•�Invest�in�a�good�day�planner.�Some�schools�require students to use the one they provide. But if that doesn’t seem big enough, buy a small blank notebook that can be personalized. �•�Write�out�a�daily�schedule,�including�extracurricular activities and study times. Don’t forget to use any free time during the school day to knock out small assignments or to review before a test or quiz. �•�Make�the�most�of�the�weekends.�Of�course,�everybody needs “down time.” But take advantage of any free time by finishing up projects or papers, even if spend for an hour or two on a Saturday. �•�Take�20�minutes�on�Sunday�to�do�a�planning�session for the upcoming week. Reviewing what’s due or what’s coming up for the week

can boost confidence and mental preparation.�•�Take�advantage�of�any�extra�help�sessions�teachers offer. All teachers want their students to be successful, thus nearly all offer a variety of sessions before and after school where they are available to give one-on-one attention. �•�Form�a�study�group.�We�are�fortunate�to�live�in a county where we have fantastic libraries. �For�example,�the�Post�Road�library�branch�has�awesome study rooms where students can gather to study for tests or work on group projects. Take advantage of this resource.�•�Solicit�help�at�home.�No�matter�how�busy�your parents are, they are always available to help with school work. Don’t believe me? Just ask them. �•�Don’t�procrastinate.�If�there�is�a�big�project�or�research paper coming up, break it into small parts. Don’t leave the whole thing until the last minute. Write down the components in a day planner/assignment�book.�Or�list�the�steps�and�deadlines on a sheet of paper and tape it to the desk/study area for daily checking. �•�Get�enough�sleep.�To�do�our�best,�we�need�to be getting an adequate amount of quality sleep. See the related article in this issue of Youth to learn more.�•�Set�goals�and�rewards.�Trust�me�when�I�say�parents are certain to help out with the reward part. All parents are thrilled when they see their children setting and achieving goals.

Ð Adlen W. Robinson

Strategies for successful studying


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We need food to fuel our bodies and give us energy. We need sleep to fuel the brain.

Sleep is so critically important for our bodies, yet so many people — teenagers, in particular — routinely don’t get enough sleep.

Lack of sleep affects all aspects of life, including how we get along with friends and family, as well as performance in school and athletics.

Perhaps most importantly, lack of sleep can harm us physically. Many bodily functions, including healing, occur while we’re sleeping.

Teens need between 8 ½ to 9 ¼ hours of sleep each night to be sufficiently rested. But most surveys find that just 15 percent of teens say they actually do that during the week.

Sleeping little during the week only to try and play “catch-up” on the weekends is also not a good solution. This kind of inconsistency hurts the quality of overall sleep.

So what are busy teens to do to ensure they get enough sleep? First of all, decide on a set sleep and wake-up time and try to stick to it, even on the weekends.

This will help the body get into a pattern and eventually make going to sleep and getting up much easier. That inner alarm clock will activate.

Also, don’t eat, drink or exercise a few hours before going to sleep. Of course, avoid caffeine after lunch — skip that latte or opt for one that is caffeine free.

Try to do some light reading right before turning out the lights, and ensure the room is dark and cool. Lastly, don’t sleep with a smartphone or other electronic device nearby. Try putting them on “silent” and leaving them in a drawer or another room.


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The 2014-15 school year is under way, but students and their families continue to stock up on the popular items in technology and apparel.

For some, the preparations started early, said Steve Wood, shift manager at Walmart on Peachtree Parkway in south Forsyth.

“July Fourth was when [customers] started shopping for back to school,” he said. “We set it up that week, and customers were asking about it the week before.”

Wood said he has seen an increase in younger students doing schoolwork on tablets, such as an iPad or Samsung Galaxy, rather than computers.

Microsoft Office programs can be bought for the tablets, he said, making it easy for kids to complete projects and assignments.

“I think most kids actually have their own tablets,” Wood said. “I have nine nephews, and all nine of them have their own tablet.”

Steve Reed, manager of Target on Market Place Boulevard in Cumming, said families are also stocking up on printer ink and new printers.

“Printers are very popular, especially the ones with air print,” he said.

Wireless, or air, printers can print from a device such as a tablet or smartphone and have become increasingly popular in recent years, he said.

Customers who use Target’s Red Card, a debit or credit card offered through the store, save 5 percent on most items, and the company then donates 1 percent of the sales to a local school the

Technology tops listof ‘must-have’ items


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customer chooses. “It’s a really great way to save money and help

the schools at the same time,” Reed said. Kids also usually need new clothes to wear to

school, so more families go clothes shopping in August and September.

A popular trend for girls this year is palazzo, or wide-leg, pants in bright colors, said Lauren Compton, sales team manager for the men’s, kid’s and junior’s departments at Belk in Lakeland Plaza.

Compton said “skater skirts” are also popular.“Those are basically a shorter skirt that kind of

flares out a little bit,” she said.Another popular item for girls is “boho” style

tops.“The boho tops are anything

that’s loose,” Compton said. “Lace is big in the boho tops.”

For boys, athletic wear, especially the brands Under Armour and Nike, are popular this year.

“The athletics is the big, big push for back to school,” Compton said.

Ð Megan Reed


Do you bring a lunch to school or buy it at the cafeteria?

While most kids don’t really care all that much about saving mom and dad some money by bringing a lunch from home, perhaps you can negotiate a compromise this school year.

How about you buy lunch two days a week and bring it the other three? Maybe your parents would consider letting you pocket the extra savings.

If you think lunch from home is a boring peanut butter and jelly sandwich and some chips, get ready for some more creative suggestions.

Also, take note of all of the cool and functional on-the-go containers out there today. There are all sorts of plastic containers perfect for holding salads, sandwiches, soups, pasta, etc.

The main thing to remember when it comes to packing a lunch from home is to try to do it the night before.

Mornings are always hectic and the last thing you need when trying to get out the door is to be putting together a lunch.

When thinking about lunch, don’t forget what the family may just have had for dinner. Pasta, soup or a casserole can be heated up in the microwave right before heading out the door and put into a small thermos to stay hot.

If your family eats salads at night, simply prepare some extra and store it in a container for lunch the next day. Top with

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some leftover chicken, steak or boiled eggs for added protein.

Put some salad dressing in a small plastic container, and maybe some croutons in a small baggie.

Of course, there are always sandwiches. But don’t get stuck in a boring rut. Stuff pita bread

with hummus and vegetables, use a tortilla wrap to wrap up turkey, cheese, lettuce, and mustard and roll it up. You can even use an English muffin for variety.

If you’re someone who wants to stay away from bread, try bringing cubes of ham, turkey, roast beef and cheese.

In a separate container, bring pickles/olives. Add a piece of fruit and you have a complete lunch without the carbs.

Don’t forget a drink. And if water seems too boring, try making flavored waters.

Simply put some lemon/lime slices into a pitcher. Add the juice of another lemon/lime, a handful of fresh mint, half of a cucumber peeled and sliced, and perhaps some peeled and sliced fresh ginger.

Allow to infuse overnight. Strain and enjoy.You can also make your own hummus and avoid all

of the additives in store-bought varieties. Try using hummus instead of mayonnaise in

sandwiches, or use it as a delicious dip for fresh vegetables.

You can customize the hummus for taste, adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, etc.


Hummus2 garlic cloves 1 teaspoon salt 2 (1-pound 3-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2/3 cup tahini (sesame seed paste you can find in the international aisle at most food stores, or an Indian grocery)1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, or to taste ¼ cup olive oil, or to taste 1/2 cup water Pita bread, pita chips or any cracker and/or fresh vegetables for dipping

On a cutting board, mince and mash the garlic to a paste with the salt.

In a food processor puree the chickpeas with the garlic paste, the tahini, the lemon juice, 1/4 cup of the oil, and 1/2 cup water, scraping down the sides, until the hummus is smooth and add salt to taste.

Add water, if necessary, to thin the hummus to the desired consistency and transfer it to a bowl.


Month promises several blockbusters

School may have started in Forsyth County and

much of north Georgia, but August is summer for most of the country.

This summer blockbusters are still rolling out, o� ering action and thrills on the big screen through Labor Day and beyond.

August‘Mutant Ninja Turtles’

They’re baaacccck! Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael and their master, Splinter, are back from the sewers to protect the humans.

Will Shredder return? Reporter April O’Neil, played by Megan Fox, is sure to get to the bottom of the story.

A new generation will get to know those loveable and � erce turtles. Opened Aug. 8 and is rated PG 13.

‘The Expendables 3’

One of the most anticipated movies of the summer, “Expendables 3” has an all-star cast and is certain to be loaded with action.

On a mission to save the president of the United States, the “Expendables” face younger adversaries who are much more tech-savvy than their aging group.

They confront Conrad Stonebanks (Mel Gibson) who had co-founded the Expendables years before with Barney (Sylvester Stallone).

Barney quickly realizes the need for some young blood and recruits younger, more technically “hip” members for his team.

Opening Aug. 15, and rated PG 13, this highly anticipated movie is sure to keep movie-goers on the edge of their seats.

School may have started in Forsyth County and much of north Georgia, but August is summer for

This summer blockbusters are still rolling out, o� ering action and thrills on the big screen through

‘The Expendables 3’

One of the most anticipated movies of the summer, “Expendables 3” has an all-star cast and is certain to be loaded with action.

On a mission to save the president of the United States, the “Expendables” face younger adversaries who are much more tech-savvy than their aging group.

They confront Conrad Stonebanks (Mel Gibson) who had co-founded the Expendables years before with

AT THE MOVIESSummer’s not over for Hollywood

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September ‘Dolphin Tale 2’

On Sept. 12, the PG-rated “Dolphin Tale 2” opens. The story follows the brave and loveable dolphin Winter, who was rescued, nursed back to health and given a prosthetic tail.

Winter’s inspiring story from the 2011 hit movie “Dolphin Tale,” continues with the amazing team at the Clearwater Marine Hospital.

The team is headed up by Clay Haskett (Harry Connick Jr.), assisted by Cameron McCarthy (Morgan Freeman), who developed the prosthetic tail and helped save her life.

The story involves the passing of Winter’s mother Panama, the only poolmate she has ever had. USDA regulations insist that dolphins’ must have social activity with other dolphins, so the team at Clearwater is in danger of losing Winter to another aquarium. There is a lot of star power in this movie, which promises to please all ages.

‘The Boxtrolls’

On Sept. 25, “The Boxtrolls” opens.

What in the world are Boxtrolls? Creatures made from boxes, they live beneath the streets of Cheesebridge, a rather Victorian-like town that is full of townspeople obsessed with money, class and — of all things — � ne cheeses.

The people in the town are aware of the Boxtrolls and think the creatures want to come out at night and go after their children.

In reality, the Boxtrolls are quirky and kind creatures who adopted and raised a human boy named Eggs and do not seek to harm

anybody. The town’s villain, Archibald Snatcher (Ben

Kingsley) wants to get rid of the Boxtrolls to advance his own standing in society.

Eggs decides to come up from the underground to � ght for his family of Boxtrolls. The PG-movie is based on Alan Snow’s bestselling fantasy novel, “Here Be Monsters.”

-- Adlen W. Robinson


The beginning of a school year often is accompanied by the necessity for new technology.

Decisions such as whether to upgrade a basic phone to a smartphone or to buy a tablet or notebook computer can be driven by the need for devices for research and assignments.

There are several options to consider, and they span a wide price range, but people often want to buy devices that provide the best bang for the buck.

Mobile phones can be essential for communication, especially when students are involved in activities after school.

Upgrading to a smartphone from a basic or feature phone is a good option since students can access apps and website for schoolwork. But keep in mind, smartphones normally require monthly data plans.

If you’re signing a contract with a wireless provider, it’s a good idea to calculate the monthly charges over the term of the contract to compare the actual cost.

A downside to using smartphones as productivity devices throughout the day is battery life.

This can be due to the multiple walls of the building diminishing reception, as well as the fact that small devices have equally small batteries.

An advantage of tablets over phones is they have longer battery life, generally because larger devices contain much larger batteries.

Tablets don’t offer the pocket-size portability and calling capability of phones, but wifi-only models don’t require contracts or data plans. This means the cost of a tablet can be less expensive over time.

Seven-inch tablets are normally less expensive than 10-inch models, and people often find they prefer the smaller form factor once they try one for a few days.

Notebook computers are less expensive than ever. But unless you purchase an ultra-thin model, they’re even less portable than tablets.

When trying to decide which devices to buy, consider reading online reviews from people who have used the products.

It’s also a good idea to visit a local electronics store to get hands-on time with the devices you’re considering purchasing.

Two items I carry when away from my desk for the day are a wall charger and a portable battery charger.

A wall charger with a USB cable is great when you have access to an outlet, but a portable charger is ideal when an outlet isn’t available.

The portable charger I carry was less than $30, has a 2A USB connector with a 6000mAh battery, and it’s about the size of my phone.

To put this in perspective, the iPhone 5S has a 1570mAh battery and the Moto X has a 2200mAh battery. These phones could be charged multiple times throughout the day by simply carrying along a pocket-size portable charger.

My final recommendation for a new device is to buy a screen protector and case. We all try to be careful with electronic devices, but the majority of us have accidentally dropped our phones on more than one occasion.

— Tim Keyser

Tim Keyser is an instructional technology specialist for the Forsyth County school system.

Devices holdeducational possibilities


Growing together and depending on

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Young swimmer honoring late

friendGri� n Egolf is participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim in Lake Lanier with the names of people a� ected by cancer written on their bodies.

27Youth Magazine | August-September 2014XXXX_X_itWorks081014Youth

Eleven-year-old Griffi n Egolf will be swimming in Lake Lanier next month to honor cancer survivors and in memory of those who have died from the disease.

This will be Egolf’s second time participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim with the names of people aff ected by cancer written on their bodies.

On his chest will be the names of those who have died, while his arms and legs will sport the names of cancer survivors.

People who donate to the eff ort have suggested names for him to honor with his swim.

“Whoever donates money … can send us a name or two of people they know who have died or survived,” he said.

On Egolf’s back Sept. 20 will be the name of Lily Anderson, a 12-year-old girl who died in 2012 from neuroblastoma. He knew her from school, and they lived in the same neighborhood.

Egolf decided to put her name there so she could see it from heaven. It was Anderson who inspired him to join the fundraiser after he saw a fl yer for it.

“He thought it would be good for him to swim in memory of [Lily],” said his mother, LeeAnn Egolf.

She said her son enjoyed the experience last year, particularly the

opportunity to meet other swimmers, including local Special Olympians who participated.

“He felt really good about himself doing something good for other people,” she said.

While he has already surpassed his fundraising goal of $3,000 for the event at Lake Lanier Islands, donations to the foundation can still be made through its website.

— Megan Reed

Griffi n Egolf is participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s

Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim in Lake

Lanier with the names of people affected by cancer written on

their bodies.


Young swimmer honoring late

friendGri� n Egolf is participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim in Lake Lanier with the names of people a� ected by cancer written on their bodies.

27Youth Magazine | August-September 2014XXXX_X_itWorks081014Youth

Eleven-year-old Gri� n Egolf will be swimming in Lake Lanier next month to honor cancer survivors and in memory of those who have died from the disease.

This will be Egolf’s second time participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim with the names of people a� ected by cancer written on their bodies.

On his chest will be the names of those who have died, while his arms and legs will sport the names of cancer survivors.

People who donate to the e� ort have suggested names for him to honor with his swim.

“Whoever donates money … can send us a name or two of people they know who have died or survived,” he said.

On Egolf’s back Sept. 20 will be the name of Lily Anderson, a 12-year-old girl who died in 2012 from neuroblastoma. He knew her from school, and they lived in the same neighborhood.

Egolf decided to put her name there so she could see it from heaven. It was Anderson who inspired him to join the fundraiser after he saw a � yer for it.

“He thought it would be good for him to swim in memory of [Lily],” said his mother, LeeAnn Egolf.

She said her son enjoyed the experience last year, particularly the

opportunity to meet other swimmers, including local Special Olympians who participated.

“He felt really good about himself doing something good for other people,” she said.

While he has already surpassed his fundraising goal of $3,000 for the event at Lake Lanier Islands, donations to the foundation can still be made through its website.

— Megan Reed

Griffi n Egolf is participating in the Livestrong Foundation’s

Swim for Your Life fundraiser, in which people swim in Lake

Lanier with the names of people affected by cancer written on

their bodies.


Rising seniors take part in American Legion program


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Sixteen boys and 12 girls from Forsyth County were selected to take part in a prestigious government education program this summer.

Each year, members of the American Legion Post 307 and the post’s ladies auxiliary choose outstanding high school students to take part in the organization’s Boys and Girls State programs.

The programs began in the 1930s. Today, they offer a weeklong course of instruction and application of the fundamental principles and procedures of city, county and state government.

“They experience six days of brotherhood or sisterhood and learning about our republican form of government, creating a functioning state,” said John Arant, commander of American Legion’s 9th District and a member of Cumming Post 307.

This year, Girls’ State was held on the campus of Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, while Boys’ State was presented at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville.

The students chosen to participate in both programs are rising seniors with a grade-point average of at least 3.0 who have shown strong leadership and community service skills.

The boys and girls are nominated for the program by school counselors. They are then interviewed by committees from the legion and the ladies auxiliary.

The groups pay all expenses of the students during their time in the programs.

— Crystal Ledford

Girls•Genesis Brown, Covenant Christian Academy• Kira Combs and Rachel Fratt, Forsyth Central High

• Samantha Mullis and Rebecca Yan, Lambert High

• Leah Bergstrom and Madison Booher, North Forsyth High

• Lindsey Manarin and Jamie Sauerbier, South Forsyth High

• Maren Loveland, Morgan Voshall and Elizabeth Youdell, West Forsyth High

Boys• Trent Callan, Jonathan Karl Castell and Nathaniel Green, Forsyth Central High

•Justin Olive, Horizon Christian Academy• Houston Earnest, Josh Pynn and Grant Slone, Lambert High

• Alexander D. Amico, Brian Grasso and Anthony Scheyer, North Forsyth High

• Christopher Garrison, Zachary Hunter Howlin and Harrison Young, South Forsyth High

• Noah Causey, A.J. Davidson and Stephen Hillman, West Forsyth High

2014 American Legion Boys and Girls State participants included the following:


Most of us have heard the sayings “swarm of bees,” or “gaggle of geese,” or a “pride of lions,” but did you know there are many names for groups of animals you probably haven’t heard before?

Here are some that are not in our every-day vernacular. In fact, many of these date back to the 15th century.

• Obstinacy of buff alo• Glaring of cats• Peep of chickens• Bask of crocodiles• Smack of jellyfi sh• Leap of leopards• Troop of monkeys• Master of peacocks• Knot of toads• Zeal of zebras


Collective nouns for groups of animals

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