1 18 townelakerwebfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

NorthsideCherokeeOrtho.com Dr. Brian Seng is a board-certified surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the hip and knee, and offers conservative and minimally invasive treatment options to return you to activity. Our experienced team of physicians is dedicated to providing the highest-quality care possible, and treats all types of sports related and musculoskeletal conditions. • Evaluation of the painful hip and knee • Direct anterior hip replacement • Minimally-invasive total and partial knee replacement • Revision total hip and knee replacement • Treatment for complex periprosthetic hip and knee fractures

Call or visit today: (770) 517-6636 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 320, Woodstock, GA 30189

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Contents

48 & 49 On the Cover Marietta Eye Clinic photo by J. King Images

January 2018

Features

In This Issue

16 Eat Right. Exercise Often.

14 Birthdays & Celebrations

94 Directory of Advertisers

Fitness expert explains that the right combination of healthy food and proper exercise is all you need to maintain a healthy weight.

40 A New Year in the Legislature

20 Life in the Fast Lane

Community

A Georgia DOT representative gives us the rundown on what we need to know about the new lanes set to open on I-575 and I-75 this summer.

52 2018 at a Glance 60 Etowah Grad is KSU Queen 62 Jamming on the Patio 68 Santa Leaves a Trail

24 Soup’s On!

88 Recent Home Sales

Resources

What’s better on a cold winter day than a steaming hot bowl of soup? We’re sharing some of our favorites; let us know what you like!

18 Plug into the Circuit 30 Rob’s Rescues 38 Everyday Angels

Advertising

Health

Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com www.townlaker.com

36 Tone Down the Blue Light

Schools 78 Lemmo’s Kids

AroundAbout-Townelaker

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

@Townelaker

townelakermagazine

79 Students help others

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

From the Art Director

What’s Changed

“Happy New Year! This month I mark my 14th anniversary with the company. If you add it up, that's more than 450 magazines! The look of the magazines sure has changed over the years, but the spirit is the same: sharing the positive stories of our community and the businesses in it. It is a true pleasure to meet the entrepreneurs and small business owners each month as I help them create their ads. It is inspiring to see the passion they have for the community and their businesses. Over the years, I have seen many new businesses grow into successful pillars of our community. Coming from south Florida, a more metropolitan area, it has been amazing to see this small community rally around people in need and give loyal support to local businesses. I am glad the magazines have stayed true to the ideal of publishing what is good about our little corner of the world. I would like to thank page designer Laura Latchford and my photography crew: Kim Bates, Jerry King, Rebekah Gregg, Hailey Huggins, Darleen Prem and Beth Fornuto. They have helped to bring the magazine to the next level with their creativity and professionalism. I look forward to meeting many more business owners in the coming year as they join the Aroundabout family.”

MyTown2Go-Cherokee & Cobb County is the new name of Around Town Take Out. Nicole Anderson, who worked for Around Town Take Out, and her fiance purchased the business. The couple has been in the restaurant industry close to 15 years: “It was very appealing to us to hop into the delivery and marketing side and share our experience with local restaurants.” Orders can be made online or on the mobile app My Town 2 Go. 770-899-1301. www.mytown2go.com/restaurants/woodstock www.facebook.com/mytown2gocherokeecobb/

Who’s Moved At press time, Towne Lake Family Pharmacy was in the process of moving to 2360 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 102, which is a larger space with a “state of the art compounding laboratory,” according to owner Julius Quarcoo. www.townelakepharmacy.com

What’s New The Pink Iris Boutique Salon has opened at 6380 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 104, Woodstock. The salon provides services for hands, feet, hair and facial waxing. 678-581-9966. www.facebook.com/ thepinkiris

Instant Imprints has opened next to Wild Orchid Salon at 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 110, Woodstock. Instant Imprints offers brand apparel (embroidery), signs and banners, custom T-shirts, promotional products and print services. Hours are 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. 678-695-7988. www.instantimprints.com/townelake.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

Ribbon Cutting

Michelle McCulloch You can see Michelle’s handiwork throughout the pages of this month’s issue, in the display ads and the cover spread on pages 48-49. She also has contributed a recipe to our Soup’s On collection on pages 24-26, along with other staff members. We love to fill the spaces between Michelle’s ads with articles that inspire you to try new things and, in the case of the new year, perhaps: get healthy (page 16); start your own business (page 18); fill your calendar (page 52-53); learn to navigate the express lanes (page 20) and prepare for Readers' Choice 2018 (page 50). Looking forward to serving you in 2018. Let us hear from you - share your ideas, inspirations, photos and good news! 4

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Allstate Vic Campbell Agency, Inc.

6380 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 103, Acworth 770-691-5014 https://agents.allstate.com/vic-campbell-acworth-ga.html

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.

Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and

Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer.

Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and co-author Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com. Dee Locklin is a Georgia State University retiree

who moved to Towne Lake in 1998 with her beloved husband Lewis, now deceased, and their only son Taylor, who now lives and works in Sandy Springs. Dee joined the TowneLaker as a contributing writer in 2011 and spends much of her time catering to two pampered American Eskimo dogs, Lea and Gidget.

Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv comedy in and around Atlanta. He lives in Woodstock with his wife Justine, his son Beethoven and his cat, Wasabi.

Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren.

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,500 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 900 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2018. TowneLaker PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 23, Issue 9

America’s Community Magazine TOWNELAKER | January 2018

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Resident’s Quick Thinking Saves a Life A Woodstock resident's quick thinking and training helped save the life of a customer choking at a local restaurant. Nancy Wolfe was recognized at the Nov. 27 city council meeting with the Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award for her efforts to save a woman who was choking while eating at Semper Fi Bar and Grille. Woodstock officers and firefighters were dispatched to a call around 12:58 p.m. Nov. 2 of a woman choking at the restaurant on Main Street. According to witnesses and a report from Woodstock Fire and Rescue, Wolfe was eating lunch in the restaurant with friends when she noticed the patron choking on a hot dog. Before first responders arrived, Wolfe attempted to perform the Heimlich maneuver on the woman and, at the direction of the 9-1-1 dispatcher, also performed CPR on the female. The woman was treated by fire personnel and transported to a local hospital for follow-up care. She has since recovered from the incident. "I've known Nancy for years," said city council member Tracy Collins, who was in the restaurant at the time of the incident. "Her willingness to help others has always been a pillar of her character, so I was unsurprised to see her jump in and lend first aid in this situation. We are lucky to have her as a neighbor in Woodstock." The award is presented to the unsung heroes in the community whose actions are extraordinary and make the city a Nancy Wolfe better place to live, work, and play.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Silencing the Gossip, Developing Trust Can you imagine living in a community of women that didn’t gossip? Having a group of friends that never discussed anything negative with someone who can’t help solve the problem? Women who spoke words that only build up others? And having your tribe made up of those that you can absolutely trust? Silencing gossip and discerning what it means to be trustworthy is the topic of The Exchange - Woodstock’s January meeting, set for 7 p.m. Jan. 11 at Venue 92, 12015 Highway 92 in Woodstock. Attendees will take a look at Brené Brown’s “Anatomy of Trust” and break down her BRAVING acronym. Suggested donation is $10. RSVP at www.theexchange.org.

North Cobb Christian School

Your Children, Our Passion.

770.975.0252

4500 Eagle Drive • Kennesaw, GA NCCS admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

NCCS Preview Day ad Jan18.indd 1

•••••

Saturday JANUARY 20TH 9:30-11:30am DROP-IN!

PK3-12th www.ncchristian.org

OPEN HOUSE PREVIEW DAY

12/11/17 12:02 PM

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Chamber Honors Dedicated Volunteer Joan McFather, a longtime member of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce and community volunteer, was named the Chairman's Council Volunteer of the Quarter for the fourth quarter 2017. She was honored during the Chamber's December Good Morning Cherokee networking event. Members of the Chairman’s Council are accepted by invitation only from the Chamber's board chair, and are Joan McFather, left, with board chair Bryan invited to attend ribbon cuttings and Reynolds. groundbreakings, Coffee & Connections. "Joan is a committed volunteer who gives 100 percent to the Chamber and its programs," said Bryan Reynolds, Chamber board chair and director of Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. For information on the Cherokee County Chamber and its programs visit www. CherokeeChamber.com. The mission of the Cherokee County Chamber, a Georgia Certified Chamber of Commerce, is to promote business and the community while expanding the economy and enhancing the quality of life.

Woodstock Citizens' Public Safety Academy The next Woodstock Citizens' Public Safety Academy will take place in March, with opening night set for March 1. The course ends May 10. The fall sessions will begin Aug. 30. The 10-week academy meets 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Chattahoochee Technical College, 8371 Main St. in Woodstock. The academy is an important component of the Woodstock police and fire departments’ community oriented philosophy. Its purpose is to provide a forum where residents can develop a basic understanding of how the police and fire departments are continually striving to improve the city. For more details, visit www. woodstockga.gov/police and look under the Community Programs tab.

Interior Design Students Make Holidays Brighter The holidays were a little brighter for residents of Woodstock Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, thanks to a team of Interiors Club students from Chattahoochee Technical College. These creative students donated their time, talents and resources to decorate the center for Christmas. “This was a heartfelt gift from the students to the local community,” said Ginger Burton, lead instructor for the Chattahoochee Technical College Interiors program. The students dedicated hours to crafting and collecting decorations for the different areas around the nursing home that they planned to decorate. “The atmosphere was completely transformed in a very short time,” Burton said. “I enjoyed witnessing the smiles on everyone’s faces, from the patients and staff to visiting family members and the students themselves.” The Chattahoochee Tech Interiors program is offered at the Woodstock campus and prepares students for employment in a variety of positions in today’s interior design field. For more information, visit Instructor Ginger Burton with students Babby Norsworthy, Chris Ugi, Esmerelda Gomez, Joyce Crockett, Jamie Yoh, Madison Gowder and Michelle Kay. www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu. 10

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

YOUR NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR FOR MATERNITY SERVICES. If you’re planning to have a baby, you’ll be happy to know that your next-door neighbor delivers more babies than any community hospital in the U.S. We built Northside Hospital Cherokee closer to you. Now, all of that experience, the full spectrum of maternity services and outstanding physicians and staff are easy to get to. We’re neighbors, so you’re welcome to visit any time. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Womens-Center. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Woodstock Police Receive National Accreditation

Troop 17215 Celebrates Community with Seniors Members of the Daisies and Brownies in Troop 17215 took the final step in earning their Good Neighbor and Celebrating Community badges during a visit to senior citizens at Insignia of Towne Lake. The girls sang Christmas carols with the residents and asked them about their memories of living in Woodstock and their favorite Christmas celebrations. Troop leader Courtney O'Neal said the girls hosted a game of Woodstock trivia, quizzing residents on their knowledge of their hometown.

The Woodstock Police Department received its accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). This achievement demonstrates the department’s commitment to professional excellence in policy and practice. www.calea.org. On Nov. 18, 2017, Woodstock’s Police Chief Calvin W. Moss and Assistant Chief Kevin Culpepper attended the CALEA conference in Jacksonville, Fla., where the Woodstock Police Department was awarded its accreditation. This process involved meeting or exceeding 177 standards, the culmination of self-evaluations, and was concluded by a review from independent assessors that took place in June 2017 as well as a review by CALEA’s Commissioners. The Woodstock Police Department joins just 20 percent of national law enforcement agencies of its size in receiving this distinguished honor. The department also is among the just 5 percent of law enforcement agencies in Georgia that are both state certified and nationally accredited law enforcement agencies. The department was accredited by CALEA from 2001-04. “Our mission is to pursue professional excellence, and we are committed to doing just that” Moss said. “This honor represents the best in class service our team strives to provide to Woodstock, its citizens, business owners, and guests.”

Safe Kids Cherokee Receives New Van Safe Kids Cherokee County recently received a new van to assist the organization with its many safe related events. Safe Kids is a local coalition through Safe Kids Worldwide, a global organization dedicated to preventing injuries in children, the number one killer of kids in the United States. Around the world, a child dies from an unintentional injury every 30 seconds. And millions of children are injured in ways that can affect them for a lifetime. Safe Kids Cherokee County is dedicated to preventing those types of preventable injuries to its citizens. “Funding for the new van was provided by Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services, lead agency for Safe Kids Cherokee, and Northside Cherokee Hospital, a proud program community sponsor,” according to Captain Chad Arp, Lead Adviser for Safe Kids Cherokee County. 12

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Captain Chad Arp, lead advisor for Safe Kids Cherokee County, with with Fire Marshal Barry Gibson.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Celebrations!

Ryan Beachem

Happy 21st birthday! We love you, Mom and Dad

Happy birthday to Lulu

Happy fourth birthday, Baker!

and her dog Zoey on Jan. 15

Skylar Wallace

Age 18 on Jan. 4 Happy birthday to “The Experience!” We love you to the moon and back! Mom, Dad and Cullen

Austin, age 8 on Dec. 15 Evan, age 6 on Nov. 10

Happy birthday, boys! Mama loves you both very much!

Lydia V.

Age 4 on Jan. 11 Happy birthday to our sweet and spunky little girl! We love you so much! Love, Daddy and Mommy

Glenn Hannigan

Celebrating a milestone on Jan. 11 Happy birthday to a wise and loving husband, father, son and pastor!

Oliver Clark

Age 4 on Jan. 11 Happy birthday to our favorite son! You are smart, funny and the best negotiator we have ever known. Love, Daddy, Mommy, Lizzy, Moijoto, Double and Bear

Connor

Age 15 on Dec. 11 Happiest birthday wishes! We love you very much and are so excited to see what God has in store for you! Dad, Mom, Dylan, Brayden and Everest

To our loving special son Luis. Thank you for always making us smile. Happy birthday and God bless you always. Your mom, dad and brother Jorge

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Hailey Weiner

Happy 12th birthday! We love you and couldn’t be more proud of you! Love, Mommy, Daddy, Colby, Ringo and Luna

Liliana “Lili” Berrio

Age 8 on Jan. 10 Happy birthday to the sweetest, most funny, strong willed little girl we know! Love, Daddy, Mommy, Joscie, Tj, Christian and family

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com February deadline is Jan. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

New Year = Healthier You A simple formula can help you maintain a healthy weight, lifestyle. BY MARCUS SHANAHAN

Weight management is about metabolism. Calories = energy. The muscle in your body is like a machine, and needs calories to run. Like fuel for your car, the better the fuel, the better the machine runs. However, when too many calories are consumed without enough physical activity, the body goes into fat storage mode. Humans have evolved, and yet our bodies still operate as if we live like cavemen. Our bodies see the lack of activity as the time to store fat for future energy, when food is scarce. Obviously, we don’t live in caves and don’t have to starve before we hunt and find food again, but you get the idea. This is one of the reasons many people suffer with weight control challenges. There are too many readily available ways to feed ourselves and we often consume too few quality foods. In order to burn fat and gain lean muscle, we must eat clean carbs, proteins and fats. We also have to eat enough to support our muscular and nervous systems. We cannot starve ourselves! This is what happens on crash diets, and it causes people to get frustrated and regain unwanted fat, again and again. So, how do we put all this together?

Step 1: Become a fat burning machine from increased muscle composition.

Step 2: Maintain healthy eating habits by eating clean sources of nutrients (carbs, fats, proteins).

Step 3: Consistently work out with intensity. Step 4: Stay hydrated. Food and recovery are two things many people overlook. Our bodies DO NOT build muscle when we are in the gym. They do in the 72-hour window after we exercise, so, this is where rest and proper foods are important. We have to feed the machine properly for the machine to run at peak performance. Things to remember:

• Consuming an additional 100 calories per day can cause

a gain of 8-10 pounds of fat per year. The reverse is true, so if you reduce your calories by 100 per day, you should lose 8-10 pounds.

• Most people sleep an average of 7 hours a night. If you work, that’s another 8 hours a day, with an added 1 ½ hour commute. Based on that, you still have 7 ½ hours left in your day. One hour of working out daily constitutes only 13 percent of those 7 ½ hours. Yes, you have the time. 16

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Here’s why those two items important:

• Keep a five-day food journal and add up where the calories for each meal/snack come from. I would bet you easily could find 100-200 calories you could cut.

• The weight didn’t go on overnight. That means it won’t come off overnight. It takes daily activity, effort and commitment to meet any goal.

• If you don’t want to change your eating habits, you will have to work harder by exercise to lose weight. If you simply cut 100 calories a day, that’s 3,000 calories a month, instead of burning 750 calories per week.

• You simply have to see your health, wellness and fitness as a priority. Think of it as preventive medicine. A simple plan that’s easy to follow:

1. Eat five balanced meals a day that include fibrous fruits and vegetables with approximately 25-35 grams of protein per meal.

2. Add up your current calories per day and cut them by

100-200. More importantly, replace junk food with real food.

3. Exercise 15–20 minutes every day or pick four days a

week and commit to one hour workouts on those days.

4. Strength train with weights every workout. 5. Drink water throughout the day. Example Routine: 45 minutes (30 strength/15 cardio)

• Two body parts 15 minutes each = total 30 minutes • Start: 5 minutes of cardio = 50 calories • 15 minutes for first muscle group

(three exercises, five sets of 10 reps each) = 150 reps

• 5 minutes of cardio = 50 calories • 15 minutes second muscle group

(three exercises, five sets of 10 reps each) = 150 reps

• Finish: 5 minutes of cardio = 50 calories

NOTE: The 30 minutes of strength sections need to be done quickly, with intensity and effort.

Marcus J Shanahan is co-owner of R2 Total Fitness. He has more than 30 years of experience in personal training, nutrition and meal prep expertise.

Welcoming New Patients! A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Mian is a board-certified physician in family medicine who is proud to serve the families of Canton and North Georgia with the highest standard of care. Dr. Mian works alongside our experienced nurse practitioner, Leslie Jackson NP-C, serving each patient with the time, attention and personalized care you and your family deserve. We offer early office hours for your busy schedule, same-day appointments for sick visits and a convenient, new location in the BridgeMill Communuty.

Haroon Mian, M.D.

Services: • Care for patients aged 2 and older • Chronic disease management and acute illness care • Physical exams for school and sports participation • Immunizations for children and adults

NEW Location! 10515 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 200 Canton, GA 30114 Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 770-395-1130 to schedule an appointment PNFM.com

Leslie Jackson, NP-C

The place to be right now. Amenity-Rich Resort Living for Active Adults Just north of Atlanta, Soleil is the place to be. Award-winning resort style 55+ community only minutes from shopping, dining, hospitals, culture and Blue Ridge.

New Homes from the Low $300s

$10,000 to use any way you want*

Find Your New Home at SoleilLaurelCanyon.com Call Today for Your Personal Tour 678.880.3071 102 High Mountain Trace · Canton, Georgia 30114 ©2017 Lifestyles at Laurel Canyon, LLC. Special offers, prices, home designs and other information subject to errors, changes, omissions, deletions, availability, prior sale and withdrawal at any time without notice. Not an offering to CT, NJ or NY residents. Void where prohibited. *on contracts written on inventory homes by 12/31/17

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

The Lunch Circuit Meets 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 10 The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 30188

770-345-0600 Tickets available at http://circuitwoodstock.com/ or the event page at www.facebook.com/circuitwoodstock/.

Plug Into the Circuit

The interior was renovated to accommodate diners. 18

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

The Lunch Circuit is a monthly exclusive lunch gathering where aspiring and current entrepreneurs can meet to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee County entrepreneurs. The event is powered by Fresh Start Cherokee, hosted by Cherokee Office of Economic Development and held at The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 30188. 2018 sessions will kick off with Dylan Brown, founder, and owner of the Ball Ground Burger Bus. He'll discuss how he came up with this out-of-the-bus idea, how he's managed to successfully offer award-winning burgers and craft beer, and how he's managed to keep a steady flow of business in downtown Ball Ground. The Burger Bus is located at 288 Gilmer Ferry Road. 678-454-2422. www.facebook.com/BGBurgerBus/ The Lunch Circuit is held in The Circuit office, the restored former Woodstock Elementary School on the Chattahoochee Technical College campus. The 3,000-square-foot innovation space is a gathering place for students, burgeoning and established businesses to meet, to consult, advise and explore new opportunities. For more information, visit www.circuitwoodstock.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

LIFE IN THE

A birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-eye view of I-575 at Ridgewalk Parkway. 20

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

FAST LANES

Quick Facts WHAT: Northwest

Corridor Express Lanes offer nearly 30 miles of new, optional, dynamically priced, reversible toll lanes in northwest metro Atlanta. The project includes 39 bridges and six new interchanges along the corridor.

WHERE: Along I-75 from

Akers Mill Road to Hickory Grove Road, and along I-575 from I-75 to Sixes Road in Cobb and Cherokee counties.

HOW: Two new lanes will be built along I-75 heading north from the I-285 interchange. At the I-75/I-575 split, just one express lane will continue northbound on both I-75 and I-575.

Crews work on completing a bridge deck pour on an express lanes bridge traveling over Barrett Parkway.

WHY: To give travelers, including transit customers, more options to achieve more reliable trip times and manage their commutes.

A look ahead at the new Northwest Corridor Express Lanes, opening soon in Cherokee and Cobb counties. The Northwest Corridor Express Lanes are scheduled to open to commuters this summer. As we watch signs go up and construction in the final stages, we asked a representative of the Georgia Department of Transportation to give us a primer. If you have more questions about this endeavor, email candi@ aroundaboutmagazines.com and we’ll do our best to get your questions answered. The express lanes will be optional toll lanes running alongside the regular or general lanes on I-75 and I-575. The key word here is optional: No driver will be required to use the toll lanes at any time. The lanes will give travelers the option to pay a fee in exchange for a more reliable trip time, while transit riders benefit at no additional costs to them. “Making it to appointments, picking up kids, getting home to let the dog out — drivers often need an option to suit their schedule and life,” said Jill Goldberg, external affairs/communications program manager for the Georgia DOT. “Travelers may choose the express lanes one day and stay in the general purpose lanes the next. Use of the lanes is completely customizable.”

The lanes will be reversible, operating southbound in the morning and northbound in the evening. This means the lanes will offer more travel capacity during peak times and in peak directions — which will improve the flow of all traffic, inside the lanes and out. Toll rates will rise and fall with traffic demand. Dynamic-rate pricing helps regulate the amount of traffic within the express lanes, providing dependable trip times for drivers, vanpools and transit riders who choose to use them. Xpress buses and registered vanpools will have toll-free access to the express lanes. You can find routes serving your area at GaCommuteOptions.com and xpressga.com. Commuters will need a Peach Pass. The pass is placed on a car’s windshield and includes a barcode that is scanned to deduct tolls for each trip. There’s no fee to get or keep the Peach Pass — drivers only pay for the trips they take in the Georgia Express Lanes. Peach Passes (and more information) are available at PeachPass.com. continued on page 65 TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Steve Miller captured the quiet beauty of downtown Woodstock in the snow.

Baby, It WAS Cold Outside On Dec. 8, and continuing into the morning of Dec. 9, North Georgia experienced a heavy early-season snowfall. Accumulations were recorded from 2 to 3 inches in Atlanta and up to 13 inches in extreme North Georgia. More than 200,000 customers reported power outages at the height of the storm. Official reports showed 7 inches in Woodstock, 9 in Holly Springs and 7 in Canton. However, many local folks on Facebook reported 10-12 inches of snow at their homes. They also provided us with some beautiful pictures of the rare winter wonderland.

A snowy evening on Shadow Ridge Circle in Wyngate, courtesy of Dave Loudin.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Some folks enjoyed the wintery view from inside.

Outside Christmas decorations were even more beautiful.

Olivia (left) and Hannah with their snowman creation.

Good sweater weather for many Towne Lake pups.

Larry Singletonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s snowy view down the tracks in Woodstock.

Fun in the snow with Kira Latchford, Lili Berrio and Jack Neldner.

Katherine Amickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyard bottle tree covered in the snow.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

• Black Eyed Pea Soup

• Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients

• • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Patty Ponder

3 cans of black eyed peas (drained) 1 large can of diced tomatoes (do not drain) 2 cups of chopped ham 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 ½ pounds hot Italian sausage 4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 chopped jalapeno (put on the top of the soup or stir in) • 3 teaspoons Tabasco sauce • 1 bay leaf • ½ can of beer • 1 small onion chopped • 2-3 garlic cloves • 1 chicken bouillon cube

Directions Stir ingredients together in a slow cooker and cook on low for eight hours. If needed you may sprinkle with Lawry’s Seasoned Salt. 24

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Jackie Loudin

1 can Campbell's Chunky Chicken Noodle Soup 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can cream of celery soup 32 ounces of chicken broth 8 ounces uncooked egg noodles 1-2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced 4 ounces cream cheese

Directions Melt cream cheese with the chicken broth. Add the cream soups and stir until blended well. Add the Campbell's Chunky Chicken Noodle Soup and chicken; heat until bubbling. Add egg noodles and cook until noodles are done.

Tips:

• This recipe is easily doubled – which is highly recommended! • You can add or delete chicken broth depending on how soupy you like your soup. • Buy a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store deli and shred up the chicken for your soup. Don’t forget to include a little dark meat, it adds great flavor. • This recipe also works great in a slow cooker.

• Roasted Poblano Soup Dan Thrailkill

Ingredients • 4 poblano peppers • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided • 3 quarts vegetable stock (store bought works but I recommend making your own as we do) • 1 red onion (diced) • 1 ½ cups corn kernels (about 2 large cobs if cutting fresh, which I recommend) • 1 15-ounce can black beans • 1 red bell pepper (seeded and diced) • 1 tablespoon kosher salt • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1 ½ tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano

Veggie stock • • • • •

1 yellow onion (rough chopped) 2 carrots (rough chopped) 2 ribs of celery (rough chopped) 3 sprigs of parsley 1 gallon of water

Directions Make the veggie stock by adding all ingredients to a heavy pot, simmering on low medium heat covered for 30 minutes. Strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve. Can be done a day in advance. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Toss poblanos in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and bake on a sturdy baking sheet for 10 minutes. Put roasted poblanos in a plastic-wrap covered bowl for 15 minutes. As the peppers sit, sauté onions and red peppers until they are a little crisp and still have color. Set aside. Remove plastic wrap from poblanos, and wipe the skin off with a cotton towel. Split peppers in half, remove the seeds, rinse and dice. Add all ingredients to pot and cook on low medium for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. If using a slow cooker, skip sautéing the onions and red peppers: combine ingredients and cook on low at least three hours. If starting in the morning, follow the same procedure and leave the slow cooker on warm all day.

• Potato Cheese Soup Katherine Amick

Ingredients • • • • • • •

3 cups raw potatoes, cut up ½ cup carrots (either chopped or sliced) ¼ cup chopped onions 1 chicken bouillon cube 1 8-ounce package Velveeta cheese - cubed 1 ½ cups of milk 2 tablespoons flour

Directions Add potatoes, carrots, onions and bouillon cube to pot of water. Add enough water to cover and boil until tender. Do not drain! Add milk plus the flour (mix a little of the milk with the flour to make a paste) Add cheese. Keep stirring on medium heat until cheese melts. This recipe makes a small pot of soup. I usually double it! Serve with hot french bread and salad.

• Vegetable Beef Soup

Michelle McCulloch Ingredients

• 2 pounds of stew meat, salt & pepper to taste • 1 tablespoon oil • 2 quarts of beef broth • 4 tablespoons tomato paste • 2 tablespoons ketchup • 1 large bag of steamable mixed vegetables • ¼ cup of uncooked pastina (no more!)

Directions

Brown meat in oil, stir in beef broth, add tomato paste, ketchup, steamed vegetables and pastina. Simmer 45 minutes. Serve with cheese quesadilla wedges.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Soup's On! continued from page 25

• Shrimp or Crawfish Soup Christie Deese

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

¼ cup sliced green onions 1 tablespoon butter 2 cans potato soup 2 cups milk 1 can (14 oz) yellow corn (drained) 8 ounces cream cheese 2 bacon strips cooked and cut into bits (optional) 1 ½ pounds boiled shrimp (peeled) or cooked crawfish tails • Dash of salt & pepper • Cayenne pepper

Directions

Melt butter in a large soup pot and sauté onions for five minutes. Add potato soup, milk corn and cream cheese. Simmer on low until heated through. Add shrimp or crawfish and simmer 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and cayenne pepper. This is a very quick, easy and tasty soup recipe from a dear friend, Michele Smith. I always get recipe requests when I make it for others.

• Tortellini Soup Ingredients

• 1 pound Jimmy Dean sausage (if you want spicy soup, use spicy sausage) • 2 (10-ounce) cans Ro*Tel® • 16 ounces frozen vegetables • 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning • 2 (9-ounce) packages of cheese tortellini • 4 teaspoons roasted garlic • 28 ounces chicken broth

Directions

Brown sausage and garlic. Add the remaining four ingredients and simmer for 10 minutes. Add tortellini the last five minutes. Top each bowl of soup with shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

• Taco Soup

Candi Hannigan

Ingredients • • • • • • • •

1 pound ground beef 1 onion, chopped 1 package taco seasoning mix 1 can Ro*Tel® tomatoes 1 can stewed tomatoes 1 can pinto beans 1 can whole kernel corn 1 can cream-style corn

Directions

Brown ground beef and onion. Add taco seasoning and prepare according to package directions. Set aside. In a large pot, add all the other ingredients. Do not drain any of the cans. Add meat mix and heat thoroughly. Sprinkle each serving with grated cheese and sour cream. Serve with corn chips or cornbread. This is always a crowd pleaser and has helped me out of a bind when, as a pastor’s wife, I’ve been called on to contribute to larger-scale meals!

• Potatoes O’Brien Soup Ingredients • 1 package country style gravy, sausage flavor • 3 (14-ounce) cans chicken broth • 1 bag frozen Potatoes O’Brien

Directions

Combine gravy mix and broth, bring to a boil. Add potatoes and cook 45 minutes. Years ago, when I did Weight Watchers, this was a favorite and low-point option. Very filling too! Even though I’m not following that program these days, I still enjoy this soup.

Opulent Condition

and

Celestial Shine a

New Year’s

resolution kept

Gloriously define your hair cut and colour by maximizing the health of your hair.

Deep Conditioning for Beautiful Hair

The secret to making your hair look its absolute best lies in its health. Simply put, the condition of your hair determines the end result achieved with hair colour, perms, cuts or styling. To ensure a beautiful outcome, élon Salon offers a variety of deep conditioning treatments, like our Clay Pack, BiominOil Treatment, Glaze Conditioning, and Protein Therapy, that can address your individual hair needs. Discover the benefits of these services and enjoy the many compliments you are sure to receive. Photo: Hair cut, colour and style by élon Salon.

Hair Colour Specialists

facebook.com/elonsalon instagram.com/elonsalon1 youtube.com/elonsalon

770.427.8698 • www.elonsalon.com • 695 Piedmont Rd • Marietta GA 30066 TOWNELAKER | January 2018

1 Million Cups Cherokee Launches Initiative to Educate, Connect Local Entrepreneurs a 20-minute question-and-answer session with the audience. The inaugural 1MC Cherokee Cherokee County residents will meeting will feature presentations have a new opportunity to join an by Abdel Altamimi and Erick entrepreneurs network on Jan. 17, Rivera, who are developing a new when 1 Million Cups gathers for the partnership to relaunch their first in a series of free, biweekly coffee innovative accounting startup, gatherings at The Circuit in Woodstock. Balco, which helps startups and Founded by the Kauffman SMBs with total financial services, Foundation, 1 Million Cups is based on client management, consulting and the notion that entrepreneurs network cloud technology solutions. and discover solutions over a million In each 1 Million Cups chapter cups of coffee. The free, biweekly and city, local entrepreneurs coffee gathering helps build startup and leaders drive the program Entrepreneurs share experiences with an engaged audience. communities on a grassroots level. as community organizers. Cherokee meetings will be held 9-10 a.m. on the first and third Volunteering for the leadership roles in Cherokee is a Wednesdays of each month. Entrepreneurs, innovators, funders, collaborative team of support: mentors and other interested community members are invited to • Misti Martin, president attend. Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) Led by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development • Jonathan Chambers, community manager of entrepreneurship and powered by their Fresh Start Cherokee brand, this local Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) chapter, called 1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC Cherokee), will be headquartered at The Circuit in Woodstock on the first Wednesday, • Erin Honea, Main Street director while the third Wednesday will go on tour to a different Cherokee City of Holly Springs city each month. On Feb. 21, the group will meet in Holly Springs; • Matthew Thomas, economic development manager March 21 will be in Canton; and the April 18 meeting will be in city of Canton Waleska at Reinhardt University. • Brian Stockton, director of Office of Economic Development The program’s model is consistent in each city across the Woodstock county: One or two early-stage startups present their companies • Tim Norton, vice president of advancement/marketing to an audience of mentors, advisers, local leaders and other Reinhardt University, representing the city of Waleska entrepreneurs. Each founder presents for six minutes, followed by PROVIDED BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

“A countywide collaboration that unites the cities with the backing of a well-respected national brand like the Kauffman Foundation makes the Cherokee chapter unique as well as the vision for creating a culture of entrepreneurship stronger,” Martin said. “We’re excited about gathering a community of support around Cherokee entrepreneurs and continuing to make our county an ideal place to launch and grow a startup close to home.” For more details, visit www.1millioncups. com and access the Cherokee microsite at 1millioncups.com/cherokee. Follow on Twitter @1millioncupschk. The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention & expansion. For more information, visit www.cherokeega.org.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

We provide trusted, compassionate and exceptional care to patients with GYN cancers and other related conditions. Our experience in gynecologic oncology, combined with the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques, means that our patients can rest assured knowing they are in the best hands possible.

Conditions We Treat

• Pelvic Masses • Ovarian Cancer

Atlanta

• Cervical Cancer • Endometrial Cancer

980 Johnson Ferry Road NE Suite 900 Atlanta, GA 30342

• Endometrial Hyperplasia • Endometriosis

4 Convenient Locations

Marietta

780 Canton Road Suite 405 Marietta, GA 30060

Call 404-459-1900 for an appointment with Dr. Gerald A. Feuer in Atlanta & Marietta.

Canton

460 Northside Cherokee Boulevard Suite 400 Canton, GA 30115

AtlantaGynOnc.com

• Uterine Fibroids • Pelvic Adhesive Disease

Towne Lake

900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189

Call 770-721-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Michelle A. Glasgow in Canton & Towne Lake.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Rob’s Rescues When I was on fall break, I went to Woodward Elementary School in DeKalb County, which wasn’t on fall break, and talked to a fourth-grade class that really likes animals and wants to learn how to help dogs and cats. I came into their classroom and told them how they could help animals in shelters. I also showed them around my website (www. robsrescues.com) and gave them copies of my book. I really hope that, after that, those students took away some good information from me and my book.

Rob and Ella.

This is Ella again. I wrote about her in the November magazine. She is still looking for a home. She is an owner surrender and 10 years old. She is in really good condition and she really should be adopted, because she is kind, sweet, lovable and calm. Ella is a lab mix, and you should meet her. This kitten’s name is Kit. He is about 3 months old and likes to play. He has a lot of energy and also loves to lie on your lap. I wrapped him up in a cat bed in the shelter and carried him around the cat room. Rob and Dr. Demetria Haddock, principal of Woodward Elementary School.

I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Follow Rob on Facebook!

@robsrescues

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

1192 Buckhead Crossing, Suite A, Woodstock, GA 30189 678-494-5735 Mon.−Fri., 8 a.m.−5 p.m. @NGClinicalResearch www.ngclinicalresearch.com

Advancing Healthcare Through Medical Research The convenience of clinical studies in our community.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Is a clinical study right for you?

Every clinical trial conducted at NGCR has been approved by the FDA and reviewed by an independent ethics committee to ensure patient safety. When you participate in a clinical trial at NGCR, you are helping with the advancement of new medical therapies that may offer improved treatments, and perhaps cures, for life-threatening and chronic diseases. A welcoming lobby and friendly staff greet you when you arrive for your appointment. The comfortable waiting area offers snacks and drinks (unless prohibited for your study), Wi-Fi, magazines and TVs with access to movies or cable. While a visit to NGCR is similar to any other doctor’s office visit, it is also different. Participation in a clinical trial means you will receive quality medical care, at no charge, from the physicians and medical professionals at NGCR. Many studies will provide compensation for your time and travel. Each clinical trial follows a careful plan or protocol that is Sponsored content

explained each step of the way. NGCR successfully has completed more than 100 clinical studies, and each one has been selected carefully by Dr. Wieskopf. Current studies open for enrollment include: osteoarthritis, low back pain and COPD. If you would like to participate in a study, to potentially help others or to seek alternative options for yourself, contact NGCR to speak to an adviser. PHOTO BY REBEKAH GREGG

veryone struggles with less than perfect health from time to time. Some folks wake up daily to chronic illnesses, while others find themselves fighting serious disease. If you’ve ever wondered if there is access to clinical research in our community that addresses current health concerns, the answer is yes. North Georgia Clinical Research (NGCR) has been providing clinical studies in the Woodstock area since 2002. Dr. Bram Wieskopf and the staff at NGCR offer one of the area’s most established research facilities that evaluates a broad range of clinical diseases and potential treatments. Dr. Wieskopf became an investigator for research studies in 1999. After establishing a successful internal medicine and osteoporosis practice, he opened his own research facility in 2002. “We’ve grown steadily over the past few years, including additional staff, resources, patient base, and the breadth of studies we offer. We plan to continue our community outreach with advances in medical science and focus on excellence in patient care,” Dr. Wieskopf said. Conveniently located near Towne Lake Parkway and I-575, NGCR provides medical and research services to

Cherokee and Cobb counties, and the surrounding areas of Northwest Georgia. NGCR has conducted many studies through the years in the areas of osteoarthritis, high-cholesterol, osteoporosis, COPD, hypertension, diabetes, overactive bladder and constipation, to name a few.

Bram Wieskopf, M.D., graduated from Emory University Department of Internal Medicine after completing medical school and undergraduate studies in anatomical sciences at McGill University Montreal, Canada.

Health & Wellness

Conservative Treatment for Carpal Tunnel BY DR. JORDAN HARRELL

We may be enjoying the new technological toys we received during the holidays, but we need to be aware of the hazards, which include carpal tunnel syndrome. While technology helps increase efficiency in our lives, we need to recognize how the use of these tools can change the function of our spines and posture. Carpal tunnel syndrome A chiropractor is considered a “technology disease” because of the prolonged can look postures we adapt when using our devices. for any Have you ever experienced interference tingling, numbness, burning and pain in parts of your hands and in your spine wrists, or had trouble grasping and nervous properly? Has this pain awakened you at night? You may be suffering system ... from carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located in the wrist in close proximity to the carpal bones. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, and any swelling of the carpal tunnel can compress the nerve and limit or cut off feeling or movement in the hands. Other issues besides carpal tunnel can cause tingling, burning

or numbness in the hand and fingers. The nerves that serve the hand begin in the neck and travel down the arm. A misaligned bone in your neck, or a bulging or herniated disc can cause these sensations in your hand. Carpal tunnel surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed in the United States, but new findings report that nearly half of these surgeries are unsuccessful in relieving symptoms. Surgery isn’t the only way to treat carpal tunnel. A chiropractor can look for any interference in your spine and nervous system that may be causing compression of your nerves. Simple, light, scientific adjustments to the neck, elbow, wrist and hand can allow the nerve to flow freely with no interference in your arm. Common signs that your nervous system has interference can range greatly. Only a chiropractor is trained to be able to recognize these signs and interpret them. Many of these signs do not come with pain, so don’t wait until you are in pain to get help.

Dr. Jordan Harrell is a third-generation chiropractor who focuses on neurostructural correction of the atlas. www.townelakechiro.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

New Year, New You BY DR. CHRISTA NELMS

How did the holidays go? Were you able to follow along with the conversations and holiday cheer with your family? Or were you feeling like you were left in silence, not understanding the conversations? If so, it may be time for you to have your hearing checked and start the new year with a new you. Not being able to hear can lead to negative consequences, such as reduced social interactions, depression and cognitive decline. One of the first steps in determining if you need hearing health care is having your hearing checked by a licensed doctor of audiology. This is a quick and painless office visit to determine where your hearing stands. It is always good to have a baseline of where your hearing is, so that you can compare it each year. At age 50, you should have an initial hearing test. If it is determined that there is a hearing loss that can be treated with hearing aids, then your audiologist can discuss your options with you. The sooner your hearing loss is treated, the more successful you will be with hearing aids. If you are on the fence about whether or not you are ready to have your hearing checked, ask yourself the following questions:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Do people seem to mumble or speak in a softer voice than they used to? Do you feel tired or irritable after a lengthy conversation? Do you sometimes miss key words in a sentence or frequently ask people to repeat themselves? When you are in a group or crowded area, is it difficult for you to follow the conversation? Do you need to turn up the TV or radio louder than your family likes? Is carrying on a telephone conversation difficult? Has someone close to you mentioned you may have a problem hearing?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, a hearing evaluation could make a difference for you in this new year.

Christa Nelms, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2000.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

At What Age Should Botox Treatments Start? BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

Traditionally, women turned to the youth-restoring practice of Botox treatments beginning in their 40s. More recently, however, the trend has shifted toward a younger age. This is done to not only smooth out wrinkles and flaccid skin, but to prevent the slackening process from happening at all. Technically, there is no magic age to begin treatment - it varies from person to person. A good rule of thumb is to look in the mirror and smile, frown and then relax the face. If significant lines and wrinkles remain while your face is relaxed, you may want to consider preventative treatments. You may notice this occurring at any point between ages 25 and 35. When you begin early Botox administration, the collagen and elasticity breakdown that naturally occurs over the years is inhibited. Muscles that would ordinarily enable wrinkles and lines to form are literally “held still” in a relaxed state. Botox no longer allows these muscles to over-contract in everyday frowns or squints, leaving your skin smooth and taut. Continued treatment allows you to retain a youthful appearance indefinitely, which in turn is great for your self-image! To meet the high demand for Botox, numerous physicians and spas offer Botox injections. Though it is a fairly simple process with little risk, choosing the wrong provider occasionally results in negative effects, such as droopy eye or nerve damage. It is important that you locate an experienced, trained physician. As an OB-GYN who cares for women through all the stages of their lives, I am sympathetic to the fact that women want their outward physical appearance to mirror their inward physical health. Reconstructive surgery, and rejuvenation and cosmetic care are natural extensions for some women’s health care providers. Make sure your doctor is qualified to treat the unique health problems of women, including the “finishing touches” of cosmetic procedures for a youthful appearance.

James Haley, M.D. is a double board certified OB/GYN and urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

Dining Out With Children Can Be Healthy BY LEAH GALANTE

Your child does not have to settle for macaroni and cheese or chicken fingers next time you go out to eat. I advise parents to look at options from the main menu rather than the kids version, especially side dishes. Consider splitting a meal or parts of your meal with your children; sharing is a modeling and teaching opportunity on appropriate portion sizes. Whether you’re an adult, or encouraging your child to eat healthily, there are easy ways to modify an order. • Ask for sauces or dressings on the side, or for the chef to add less to the meal than what is typically served. • Choose baked, broiled, grilled, steamed or roasted, rather than fried foods. • Replace french fries with fruits or vegetables. • Opt for whole-grain options, such as 100 percent wholegrain breads and pastas or brown rice. • Encourage water, sparkling water, unsweetened herbal teas or low-fat milk for a beverage. • Request no salt be added. Read the nutrition facts on the menu for better insight into what options are best, and how to ask that options be modified.

One coloring game to use at home or at restaurants to teach children to choose healthy options is called Balance the Plate (http://bit.ly/2j9USde). Have them practice creating and drawing balanced meals made up of 50 percent fruits and vegetables, 25 percent protein and 25 percent whole grains or starches, using menus from restaurants. Encourage them to choose foods that represent a variety of colors. There’s no better way to teach your children to choose healthy options than to do it yourself. When you choose vegetables over fries or grilled chicken instead of fried, kids will be more apt to follow your lead. Parents also could provide their child with two to three healthy meal choices from the menu and let them choose. These meal choices don’t necessarily have to be on the kids menu. They could choose from an entrée shared with a parent, an appetizer with a side of vegetables, or a half portion off the regular meal, if available.

Leah Galante is a registered and licensed dietician with Northside Hospital. For more information, visit northside.com/nutrition.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Limit Blue Light Exposure to Protect Eyes BY DR. JENNIFER DATTOLO

Blue light is a short wavelength (400-500 nanometers) of visible light that emits higher energy. Digital screens (TVs, computers, smartphones, tablets) are the most common sources of a person’s blue light exposure, aside from the sun. Blue light scatters more easily than other visible light, making it difficult for the eyes to focus. This reduces contrast and can contribute to digital eye strain. This high-energy visible light penetrates the eyes and can cause macular degeneration and cataracts. Sleep also can be affected due to the light suppressing the natural release of melatonin (a hormone that signals the brain it’s time to sleep), causing sleepless nights and fatigue during the day. Studies have shown more than 87 percent of Americans report using digital devices more than two hours a day. This use causes eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, blurry vision, and neck and shoulder pain. Using any digital device one to two hours before going to sleep has been shown to disrupt sleep patterns, leading individuals to not attain a sound night’s rest. More than 70 percent of parents say their children spend more than two hours a day on these same digital devices. These days, schools use computers and often provide them to the students. Of these schools, more than 55 percent report that, after prolonged use, students have a reduced attention span, poor behavior and irritability. Eye strain

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

and headaches also are reported by parents as symptoms their children experience. To reduce harmful blue light exposure, there are now lenses available with a coating that filters the light, therefore reducing the negative effects. Not only do these lenses help with digital eye fatigue and help maintain normal sleep patterns, they also help protect against damage to the retina and lens. Glasses with this coating can be made with or without a prescription, and can be worn over contact lenses. This is especially important for children, since earlier damage can lead to greater problems as they age. Newer computers and smartphones now have a blue light shield application which allows the user to lessen the amount of blue light used to display an image. When it comes to using computers and other digital devices, be sure to talk to your optometrist regarding the best vision correction and lens features for you and your children. And don’t forget to limit screen time, especially before bed. Do everything you can to protect your eyes from blue light.

Dr. Jennifer Dattolo, FCOVD, optometrist at Eyes on Towne Lake, has been in practice for 17 years and enjoys serving the Woodstock community. 770-702-5996. www.EyesonTowneLake.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

EVERYDAY

Sisters Diem and Se’reon Kwon, 5-year-old fraternal twins, have never known life without each other. As sisters and best friends, both girls have larger-thanlife personalities and kind hearts that leave a lasting impression on all who meet them. “As their pre-K teacher, I was blessed to have these two beautiful girls become a part of my life last year. They grabbed a part of my heart the minute I met them,” Anne Ussery said. However, in June, life quickly changed. “Diem woke up walking differently one morning. She was staggering around and bouncing off walls like a pinball machine,” said Aloni, Diem’s mom. “At first, I thought she was playing around, but it wasn’t until I received a call from her day care that day that I realized it was something more. Diem had been sleeping most of the morning, which was extremely unusual. I immediately left work and took her to the pediatrician who sent us to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for further testing.” Her CAT scan revealed that Diem had a tumor on her cerebellum, causing her dizziness and affecting her gait. Two days later, emergency surgery was performed to remove the tumor and determine the type of cancer. “On June 29, our worst fears were realized when Diem was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), a rare and aggressive form of cancer on her brainstem,” Aloni said. Because glioblastoma grows into the normal brain tissue, complete removal isn't possible. “Two weeks after her surgery, we began 30 sessions of radiation to slow the growth of her cancer. She also takes a high dose of steroids and Avastin, but had an allergic reaction to the medication. Unfortunately, Diem does not qualify for clinical trials at this time.” As Diem’s tumor continues to progress, she is unable to walk and requires the use of a wheelchair. Her speech is beginning to be affected. “It is so difficult witnessing our precious child as her health deteriorates before our eyes and there is little we can do for her. We are grasping and doing all that we can holistically outside of radiation. We were told there is no cure, so we continue to fight for time and create memories for her and our family together,” Aloni said. Aloni has had to leave her fulltime job as an office manager to care for her daughter. Diem’s prognosis is bleak, with only a 20 percent survival rate of two years. “It is our goal to exceed this and give her the best quality of life and create the most memories we can as a family. Our hearts are broken. Sa’reon, Diem’s twin sister, and older brother, Zavair, are her best friends and want to do everything for her. When Diem is in pain, Sa’reon 38

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Diem and her fraternal twin Se'reon are very close.

is right beside her rubbing her head and watches her sleep. They help give her medications, walk, bathe and eat. My fear is not only losing our daughter but also her siblings losing their best friend,” Aloni said. When asked what help they need during this difficult time, Aloni simply asked for prayers, gas and grocery cards, as she continues transporting Diem to her radiation treatments. A ramp for her wheelchair also would be helpful. Cancer is terrible for anyone, but especially for innocent children who still have so much life before them. Aloni would like to remind everyone that only 4 percent of government funding for cancer goes to children’s cancer research. “It is heartbreaking, not only to see our daughter go through this difficult journey, but also all the other children and families we see throughout this fight. It isn’t until you experience it that you truly know the pain, suffering and heartache of these innocent sweet children. Please pray for our Diem and our family in the coming months and hopefully years ahead.” You may follow Diem’s journey on Facebook page at Darling Diem.

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

A Look at the 2018 Legislative Session BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

This month, members of Georgia’s Senate and House of Representatives return to Atlanta to complete the two-year term of the 154th General Assembly of Georgia. Every year, our part-time citizen Legislature spends 40 legislative days (from the second Monday in January until late March or early April) passing a state budget and debating proposed changes to the laws governing all Georgians. This will be my sixth year representing our families in the House of Representatives, and doing so remains one of the greatest honors of my life. Thank you! Although the legislature typically operates on a healthy diet of tradition and predictability, the 2018 session is sure to have its own unique flavor. With Gov. Nathan Deal reaching his term limit, we’re seeing the first open gubernatorial election since 2010. Those running for the open seat include members of the Legislature and several high-ranking elected officers, so there are certain to be some politically driven proposals and debates under the Gold Dome. Don’t worry. The vast majority of our Legislature is not running for higher office, but I never underestimate the ability of a politician running for a new seat to take advantage of an available soapbox. For that reason, I plan to devote much of my effort this year to playing defense. I’ll be watching the legislation coming across my desk especially carefully, and would greatly appreciate your help if you notice anything concerning (or something you’d especially like to see passed). Just drop a quick note to michael.caldwell@ house.ga.gov. We have thousands of bills and resolutions introduced each year, and extra eyes always are helpful during the heat of the session. 40

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

I’ll be working on a few pieces of legislation, including a bill to enforce Georgia’s ban on contractor garbage burial at residential construction sites in Georgia. I started working on this initiative last year and hope to see it across the finish line in 2018. The legislation I’ve been working on regarding craft beer laws in Georgia, as well as the safe haven issue I’ve written about in this publication in years prior, both passed and took effect in 2017. My legislation to place term limits on our House and Senate will carry over from last year as well, and I am currently vetting a few other initiatives that could make for better law for all Georgians. Throughout the session, I’ll continue my Weekly Coffees with District 20 at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock, at 9 a.m. every Saturday, During the legislative session, these meetings give you a chance to offer feedback on what’s going on in Atlanta. I’d love to have you join us. If you find yourself near the Capitol building during the session, please don’t hesitate to give me a call on my cellphone at 678-523-8570. I give a pretty great tour (as long as listening to a nerd explain the history of the General Assembly and the Capitol building is your idea of a great tour), and I’d love to show you around your House of Representatives. If you have any questions or concerns this session, or at any other time during the year, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. Caldwell@house.ga.gov.

Cherokee County Real Estate Year in Review BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

We are pleased to report that the housing market in Cherokee County continued to show strong improvement by most measures in 2017. While few homes sold, homes sold faster and for more money. The data is showing us that while we will still see improvement in 2018, the pace of these improvements has been leveling off for resales (homes not newly constructed) in Cherokee County. Homes sold for 6.01 percent more money per square foot in 2017 than 2016 with the average single family home selling for an average of 8.33 percent more (or $22,214.44) on average. Total days on market improved by 2.21 days as well. Homes are taking an average of only 57.78 days to sell and closer to 43 days when priced correctly. We expect the exuberant demand for resales will continue to taper as new home construction resumes its pre-crash pace of

1,000-plus home sales per year. Last year, new home construction accounted for only 13.89 percent of the total homes sold. Prior to the housing crash in 2008, more than one in four homes sold were newly constructed. In effect, this will increase the overall supply of homes and move our market out of a strong seller's market and into a more stable balanced market. Market conditions are still ideal for sellers and should be improving even more for buyers as we move into a more balanced market, provided interest rates remain low.

Kurt and Sheila are a top-producing real estate team that lives in Towne Lake and has served Cherokee County for more than 15 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

I paint with a loose, interpretive method that allows me to express the emotion and movement of the moment. My hope is to create art that resonates on an emotional, visceral level, engages the human heart and challenges the spirit." - Steven Lester

The action sports theme dominates Lester’s work.

Local Artist Kicks it into High Gear

Steven Lester grew up in Atlanta and always had an enthusiasm for sports. As a Georgia State University student studying visual arts, he was commissioned to illustrate a series of program covers for Georgia Tech football. He began his career as a commercial illustrator and soon became creative director of Turner Broadcasting System. Ted Turner owned the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks at that time, and Lester met a number of the players.

Lester’s career allowed him little time for painting but didn’t diminish his love for action-oriented sports art. When he and his wife adopted two children, he found himself traveling and becoming a conflicted, absentee father. After considerable deliberation, he made a conscious career change, resigning from the advertising agency to attend seminary. For the next 20 years, he pastored churches and pioneered numerous, creative ministry and missions initiatives.

He also began focusing his creative skills advancing causes and issues of value to him. He traveled the world making lifelong friends from Russia to India to Africa, but had little time for cultivating his passion for drawing and painting. After four decades of focusing on other priorities and beginning to lean toward retirement, Lester shifted his focus and embraced his love of painting. He produced more than 200 paintings in two years and was named featured artist of the month by The National Art Museum of Sport (NAMOS), a fine art museum based in Indianapolis. His 2018 schedule so far includes two solo shows. The Heart of a Champion Solo Sports Art Show Jan. 5-26 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays Noon to 5 p.m. Saturdays Cherokee Arts Center 94 North St., Canton 30114 Featuring more than 70 paintings on display.

Artist’s Reception Braves’ pitchers Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux and John Smoltz. 42

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

2-4 p.m. Jan. 13 The public is invited.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Around & About JANUARY Through Jan. 15

Bring Christmas trees to Olde Rope Mill Park to be recycled, 8 a.m.-dusk. Bring One for the Chipper on Jan. 6, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and receive a free tree seedling while supplies last, along with coffee or hot chocolate and donuts. Sponsored by the city of Woodstock.

winter cornhole 10 Woodstock league continues for seven

Wednesdays. Start times vary between 6:45, 7:30 and 8:15 p.m. Each team plays best of three to 21 points each night. To sign up, visit www.cornholeATL.com and click on Register Here on the top right, scroll down and choose the location, division, select Team Captain and create an account to start inviting friends to join your team.

Ladies Fellowship event at First 11 Baptist Woodstock, 7-9 p.m.,

featuring guest speakers Angie Matheson, Charity Jones and Tamara Hatch. For tickets, visit www.belovedwomensevent.com.

SPLISH SPLASH Camp for ages 15 6-13 at the Cherokee County

Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Holly Springs. Children must be able to pass a 25-yard, deep water swim test with no assistance to attend. Camp includes lots of pool fun, arts and crafts, off-site field trips and more. 678-880-4760. www.crpa.net.

The theme for January’s A Novel Idea is Storytellers Extravaganza, set for 7-9 p.m. at East Main Cafe, inside Audio Intersection at 210 East Main St., Canton. Professional storytellers and musicians will be on hand to share stories and music. The event is open to the public and features door prizes. BYOB. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ CantonLiteraryEvent.

Laugh 2018 at Elm 20 Last Street Cultural Arts Village,

8534 Main St., begins at 7:30 p.m. Comedians and comedy groups compete and the audience chooses its favorite. Hosted by Jessica “It’s All Good” Williams. Tickets are $10 online, $15 at the door. To register, visit http://bit.ly/2AcXWeT.

Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Coffee and Connections for new members 9-10 am The event provides the Chamber's newest members with the opportunity to learn more about the Chamber, its programs and benefits. Committee activities and volunteer opportunities are highlighted. Attendees also learn about their fellow new members. Held in the board room at the chamber office, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 30114. www.cherokeechamber.org.

Send us details about your charitable event or community festival to be considered for our community calendar. Email candi@ aroundaboutmagazines.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication date.

FEBRUARY Day celebration. 16 Arbor In 2017, Woodstock Parks

and Recreation department gave away free tree seedlings and tree care guides. For more details, visit www.woodstockga.gov.

& Hoses 5K 24 Guns will pit the Cherokee

County Fire Department (Hoses) against the County Sheriff’s Department (Guns) in a goodspirited fundraiser, hosted by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. Proceeds from the Hoses will go to Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, a nonprofit home serving young men in foster care. The Guns are competing for the Cherokee Sheriff’s Foundation, dedicated to helping local families. For details, contact Kate Borden at 770-924-7768 or kborden@cherokeega.com. http://gunshoses5kandfunrun. blogspot.com/

Beauties and Beaus Mother-

December's Coffee and Connections gathering. 44

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Son Bash, with a DJ playing your favorite songs. Enjoy quality fun together with a candy bar buffet, cornhole, craft station, prizes, photo booth, snack bar and bounce house. Pre-register by visiting www.crpa.net. Price is $40 per couple, $10 per additional son. Contact Frankie Sanders, fsanders@cherokeega.com for more information.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

@ the Library ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491

Tuesdays

Knit and Crochet at 4:30 p.m. Let Ms. Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn and be prepared to have fun. No prior knowledge is required.

Wednesdays

Crayons and Conversation at 1 p.m. Drop in to de-stress and get your creative juices flowing. Socialize over a tabletop game (such as Scrabble or MahJongg) or color a picture. Players and colorers of all skill levels are welcome. Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m. Children 6 and older can read to a nonjudgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session.

Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

Jan. 7

Introduction to Acrylic Painting at 3 p.m. This program provides an introduction to painting with acrylics for anyone interested in starting a new hobby. All materials are provided. For ages 16 and older. Registration is required.

Jan. 8

Toddler STEAM Colors at 11 a.m. Toddlers can experiment with color by making colors “appear” in a pan and hopping from color to color in a fun game. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Jan. 10

Quilting Club Block-of-the-Month Project at 10 a.m. Gather

with other friends interested in learning to quilt. This program is designed for those interested in trying a new craft and provides instruction in sewing a different 12-inch block each month. For ages 16 and older. Registration required.

Jan. 11, 18, 25

Rice Heating Pads at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sew a take-home

Learn to Play MahJongg at 1 p.m. Start the new year by learning something new: the ancient Chinese tile game of MahJongg. Instructions are provided in four consecutive sessions for individuals interested in learning American MahJongg. Registration required.

Jan. 13

Crafternoon at 4:30 p.m. Every month we’ll be making something

Jan. 11

project. Registration is required.

LEGO Club at 3 p.m. A different theme each month. Children

may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859

Mondays

Coloring Group meets at 10 a.m. The coloring group has been meeting every Monday for more than a year. All materials are provided. For ages 16 and older.

Tuesdays

MahJongg Meetup at 10 a.m. Learn to play American MahJongg, based on the ancient Chinese tile game. Whether you’re just starting out, honing your skills or an advanced player, this is the group for you!

Wednesdays

Family storytime at 10:30 a.m. designed for families with children of all ages. Storytime is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Thursdays

Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., designed for

families with children of all ages. Storytime is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Jan. 12

different. For ages 9 and older; children age 9 must be accompanied by an adult.

Jan. 13, 27

Inklings Writers Critique Group at 11 a.m. Love to write, but need some feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas and feedback are invited to attend.

Jan. 16

Book Discussion Group at noon for coffee, conversation and a

book discussion with new friends. The selection for January is “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.

Jan. 17

Advance Care Planning at 10 a.m., presented by a WellStar representative, is designed to help individuals make healthcare decisions. This workshop can help you and your loved ones talk about these issues - before decisions might have to be made.

Jan. 20

STEAM Saturday Hovercrafts at 3 p.m. Create a hovercraft using

everyday items. Make it your own and then we can race. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Jan. 21

Lego Club at 3 p.m. A different theme each month! Children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Project Pinterest at 3 p.m. Explore Pinterest inspired creative projects. For ages 16 and older. Registration required.

Tips on Selecting an Auto Repair Shop BY DANNY BRANOM

There comes a time when you have to decide where to take your car for service or repair. Now how do you do that? Take a deep breath, clear your thoughts and let me help you with this task. Having to change repair shops can happen because you have moved, the shop you were using has closed or the last few shop visits have been memorable in a negative way to name a few. Let’s take this one step at a time. First, ask yourself what are you looking for in a new shop and how long will you be living in that area? Is your vehicle new? If so then for the next few years should need only routine maintenance. Do you have an older vehicle that will require both routine maintenance and repairs or are you attempting to squeeze those last few miles out of your vehicle? Secondly, ask your neighbors and friends who they are taking their vehicles to and why. Keep in mind if they own vehicles similar to yours so their facility can meet your expectations. It’s also important to ask if they had ever experienced anything that was less than positive with their repair shop. What happened is just as important as was it corrected to their expectations? Third, what is the reputation of the facility? Go online and look at their reviews and read them carefully. If they have negative reviews are they similar in context or all over

the place? We all know you can’t make everyone happy all of the time. Remember there are two sides to every experience. Fourth, be sure to ask the right questions about the facility (Yes, you can and should ask these.) what is the training experience of their staff? What certifications do the employees have, and are their certifications current? How long has the shop been in business and how long have their employees been working there? What is the shop owner’s background and are they involved in the business or an absentee owner? What warranty do they provide and is it only at their location? These are questions that you can and should be asking. Finally, take your vehicle in for a light maintenance service first if possible. How were you greeted? Is the facility clean? Go to the restroom (one of the most neglected areas in any business) even if you don’t need to. If other customers are present ask them about their experience(s). Now, how was your experience and would you recommend the shop to your neighbors and friends?

Danny Branom is owner/operator of Christian Brothers Automotive in Towne Lake. 770-926-4500. www.cbac.com/townelake.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

New Woodstock Office Opens the

visit to the new Towne Lake office of Marietta Eye Clinic is convenient for families living in this area and across Cherokee County. But what may not be evident immediately is the depth of services available to patients. Through the two-suite office on Eagle Drive, patients have access to: • A practice focused solely on eye care, consisting of 26 highly experienced ophthalmologists (medical doctors with residencies in ophthalmology) and optometrists (doctor of optometry degrees). • Practice areas that include comprehensive ophthalmology, retina-related conditions, pediatric ophthalmology, adult strabismus, cataract surgery, LASIK, cornea-related conditions, dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, oculoplastics, uveitis and general optometry. After more than 50 years of providing eye care, Marietta Eye Clinic has assembled

PHOTO BY J. KING IMAGES

ONE PATIENT’S STORY

TOWNE LAKE’S EYE CARE TEAM

From left: Jung Ha Park, OD General Optometry and Ocular Disease

Denise Johnson, MD Cataract Surgery, General Ophthalmology, Dry Eye Syndrome, Cosmetic Treatments

Justin Wilkin, MD Cataract Surgery, Dry Eye Syndrome, General Ophthalmology

Monica Bratton, MD Pediatrics and Adult Strabismus (Eye Misalignment)

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

I enthusiastically recommend the Marietta Eye Clinic to anyone needing quality eye care. Both my wife and I have been patients there for 10 years or more, and we have nothing but great things to say about the clinic and the staff. Everyone there has been friendly, courteous and professional. Our chosen ophthalmologist, Dr. Denise Johnson, is a terrific doctor and a delightful person, as well. It is always a treat to meet with her during our annual eye exams. We have visited the locations in Marietta and Acworth, and they are always very neat, clean and well-organized. We are now very excited about the newest location here in Woodstock and look forward to our next visits there. Sincerely, Jerry Cox Woodstock area resident

Door to Multiple Services a staff of more than 300 healthcare professionals at nine locations, including Marietta-Kennestone, East Cobb, Windy Hill, Powder Springs, Douglasville, Woodstock (Towne Lake), Canton, Acworth and Hiram. The Marietta Eye Clinic ambulatory surgery center (outpatient surgery), located alongside the company’s largest clinic in Marietta, performs thousands of surgeries each year. “Much of the community may not be aware of the depth of experience and broad array of specialists available at Marietta Eye Clinic. We approach eye care with this perspective: You only have two eyes and your vision is one of the primary determinants of your quality of life. This informs everything we do and how we evaluate and treat each patient,” Dr. Justin Wilkin said. Marietta Eye Clinic is ophthalmology based, meaning a medical doctor is on staff to care for medical issues beyond glasses

and contacts. Patients have one source for all types of diagnoses and treatments in one location. Woodstock was chosen for the new location because of the thousands of patients who’ve driven from this community to the other offices. During the last 50 years, the clinic has grown from one office to nine locations with 26 providers and there are plans to continue adding locations across metro Atlanta and North Georgia. The practice knows the community values convenience and plans to increase access to high-quality eye care. “We knew there was a significant need for more convenient access to a trusted group practice capable of bringing a multispecialty approach to eye care,” Dr. Denise Johnson said. “We are proud of our heritage of service to the Towne Lake and Woodstock communities and we look forward to many more years of ensuring the highest quality care to this fantastic community.”

BY THE NUMBERS MORE THAN

60,000 patients are treated each year across the nine locations. NEARLY

5,000 surgeries are performed in Marietta annually.

TOWNE LAKE OFFICE 2990 Eagle Drive Suites 110 & 111 Woodstock, GA 30189

770-427-8111 Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday - Friday Saturday morning hours available at the Marietta location.

www.mariettaeye.com Sponsored Content

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Readers' Choice 2018 Presented by Aroundabout Local Media

Our local business owners bring so much value to our community. They offer restaurants where we can grab a delicious meal, service centers to keep our cars in tune, individuals who help educate our children and care for our pets, and medical facilities with physicians we trust to treat our families. Here is your chance to thank them.

On Feb. 1, we will open Readers’ Choice 2018. Visit www.townelaker.com and with a click of your mouse, you will be directed to the voting site. Follow the prompts and cast your vote for your favorite SMALL businesses.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Most of us spend a fair amount of time in big-box retailers. Let’s keep the focus of Readers' Choice on local small businesses and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit.

2. If you don’t see the name of your favorite business, feel free to write it in. Please

include the location of the business, if there are multiple sites. For example, many restaurants have three or four locations. Help us know which one you’re voting for by giving as much information as possible, such as a street or community name.

3. Voting begins Feb. 1 and ends at 5 p.m. March 10. 4. Winners will be announced in the April issue. Businesses will not be notified ahead of time. Everyone will find out at the same time.

5. Vote in as few or as many categories as you’d like. There isn’t a minimum number of votes required for your votes to count.

6. No more than five votes per category will be accepted from each IP address. Here are the categories you can expect to find.

Happy Voting! Recreation & Entertainment Dance Studio Golf Course/Club Gymnastics Center Music Venue Swim Lessons Theater

Restaurants American Asian Bakery Barbecue Breakfast Coffee Shop Dessert Fine Dining Italian Kid-Friendly Mexican Pizzeria Seafood

Retailers Bicycle Sales Boutique Florist Garden Center/Nursery Gifts/Home Décor Jeweler Music Animal/Pet Supplies Liquor Store Pharmacy Specialty Foods Tires

Services Adult Day Care/Respite Attorney Audiologist Automotive Bank/Credit Union Barber Shop Business Support Cardiologist Chiropractor Counseling Day Care/Preschool Day Spa 50

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Dentist Dog Training ENT/Allergy Center Equestrian Financial Adviser Funeral Home Gastroenterologist General Practitioner Hair Salon Health/Fitness Home Cleaning Home Improvement/Repair Insurance

Interior Design Landscaping/Lawn Care Massage Music Lessons Nail Salon Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ophthalmologist Optometrist Orthodontist Orthopedics/Sports Medicine Pediatric Dentist Pediatrician Pest Control

Pet Grooming/Boarding Photographer Physical Therapist Plastic Surgeons Podiatrist Private School Realtor Senior Living Facility Travel Agency Tutoring Vacation Rentals Veterinarian

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

2 0 1 8 At a Glance

If getting organized is one of your new year’s resolutions, this comprehensive calendar should help. We’ve included the dates for school breaks, city festivals and community events as well as national holidays.

JANUARY Jan. 8: Swearing-in ceremony for newly elected Woodstock city officials at 6 p.m. at The Chambers at City Center Jan. 15: Martin Luther King Day Cherokee County school holiday

FEBRUARY Feb. 1: Readers’ Choice voting begins Feb. 2: Groundhog Day Feb. 4: Super Bowl Feb. 10: ACT at Creekview, Etowah, River Ridge, Sequoyah, Cherokee high schools Feb. 14: Ash Wednesday Valentine’s Day Feb. 16: Woodstock’s Arbor Day Celebration & Seedling Giveaway Feb. 19: President’s Day Feb. 19-23: Winter Break Feb. 21-23: Inclement Weather Makeup Days

March 11: Daylight Savings Time Begins March 17: St. Patrick’s Day March 20: First Day of Spring March 24: Holly Springs Easter Egg Hunt March 25: Palm Sunday March 30: Good Friday March 31-April 7: Passover

APRIL April 1: Easter Sunday April 2-6: Spring Break April 14: ACT at Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, River Ridge high schools April 17: Tax Day April 21: Greenstock Day and Recycling Event

Feb. 24: Guns and Hoses fundraiser

April 22: Taste of Woodstock

Feb. 28-March 1: Purim

April 25: Administrative Professionals Day

MARCH March 2: Friday Night Live series begins in Woodstock March 10: Last Day of Readers’ Choice voting SAT at Cherokee, Creekview and Etowah high schools

MARCH

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

MAY May 2: Holly Springs Job Fair May 5: Cinco de Mayo Derby Day at the Rock Barn Holly Springs Great American Cleanup

MAY

SEPTEMBER

May 5: Trailfest in Woodstock

Sept. 11: Patriot Day

May 11:: Relay for Life, Woodstock High

Sept. 17-21: Fall Break

May 13: Mother’s Day

Sept. 9-11: Rosh Hashana

May 19: Bacon ‘n’ Banjos in Woodstock

Sept. 18-19: Yom Kippur

May 24: River Ridge graduation 4 p.m.

Sept. 23: First Day of Fall

Etowah High graduation 8 p.m. May 25: Last Student Day, Cherokee County Creekview High graduation 4 p.m. Woodstock High graduation 8 p.m. May 26: Cherokee High graduation 9 a.m.

Sept. 29-30: Riverfest Sept. 23-30: Sukkot

OCTOBER Oct. 1: Scarecrow Invasion in Woodstock

Sequoyah High graduation 1 p.m.

Oct. 6: Holly Springs Autumn Fest

Memorial Day 5K benefitting LR Tippens

Oct. 8: Columbus Day

May 28: Memorial Day

JUNE June 2: SAT at River Ridge, Woodstock high schools June 9: ACT at Woodstock High School

Oct. 13: Woodstock Fire Station No. 14 Open House Oct. 20: Georgia ZombieFest Oct. 31: Halloween KidsFest in Woodstock

NOVEMBER

June 14: Flag Day

Nov. 4: Daylight Saving Time ends

June 17: Father’s Day

Nov. 6: Election Day. No school.

June 21: First Day of Summer

Nov. 11: Veterans Day

JULY July 4: Independence Day

AUGUST Aug. 1: First Day of School Aug. 7: Police Night Out in Woodstock

SEPTEMBER Sept. 3: Labor Day and School Holiday Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27: Brown Bag Concerts in Woodstock Sept. 9: Grandparents’ Day

Nov. 17: Recycling event in Woodstock Nov. 19-23: Thanksgiving break Nov. 22: Thanksgiving Nov. 30: Holly Springs Tree Lighting

DECEMBER Dec. 1: Canton, Holly Springs and Woodstock Christmas parades Dec. 3-10: Hanukkah Dec. 7: Shop With a Hero in Woodstock Dec. 24-Jan 4 Christmas break Dec. 25: Christmas Dec. 26-Jan 15 Christmas tree Chip & Dip

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM

Detour or Destiny BY ANN LITREL

The interstate is closed. A detour sign sends my car creeping along a narrow country road crusted with snow. Evening is coming soon. I am somewhere on a nameless midway on my route from Nashville to Atlanta. The horizon is a low-hanging blanket of clouds, ready to drop silently over the fragile bone-bare trees edging the fields. I seem to be the only living soul in this strange place muffled in white, every twig outlined in an icy chrysalis. A bend in the road brings me to an apparition – a red barn glowing like a jewel in the snow. It looks unearthly, and despite my feeling of unease and the oncoming dark, I can’t help but pull off the road to take a picture. I know someday I will paint it. “Maybe this was the real destination,” I think to myself. It would not be the first time in my life that a detour in the road turned out to be the destination. In my mind’s eye, memories sift like images in a kaleidoscope. I see a picture of my husband Michael as a young man, laughing, taking both my hands and pulling me away from my textbooks in the library, to “come take a break.” I am laughing, trying to resist, but he is persistent. Michael was a detour – a young man from New York who I met one night when he was visiting his brother on campus. A canceled flight, a date, a long distance relationship for three years until we were married – and now 30 years of marriage. Michael was a surprising twist in a life that was already mapped out: marriage to a staid hometown boy, life in a small Midwest town. 54

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

The kaleidoscope shifts again, and I see an old house standing vacant in downtown Woodstock. I see the faces of Shawn McLeod, a near stranger and fellow artist downtown, and Gay Grooms, the mercurial artistic director of a local community theater. The three of us are walking around the old house. We are agreeing it should be saved, become part of an arts center to include a theater and gardens, and our flights of fancy paint all the pieces bright in our imagination. Another detour - serving on an arts center board with the Elm Street Arts Village while I had my artist’s studio downtown, the work of the group often pulling me away from my easel. It seems to me, as I look at my life, that it has often appeared to be a journey of detours, not planned destinations. I am envious of people who plan their lives and then single-mindedly pursue their goals, plotting their life course like a captain through the seas. But in my life, I find that much of what has been good and important started with what seemed to be a detour, which only later, could I see was the real destination. And so, I set my easel down where I have landed, working to paint the scene at hand, and create of my life something I hope is beautiful.

Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.

Towne Lake Business Association Happy 2018 wishes from all of us at the Towne Lake Business Association. We look forward to supporting past, present and future members with another year of exceptional speakers and workshops. Our continued focus on raising scholarship dollars for our area high school seniors has expanded. We will now award Entrepreneurial, Leadership and Work Based Learning scholarships to seniors at Etowah, River Ridge and Woodstock High schools. If interested in applying for a scholarship, donating funds or offering an internship to an area student, please contact Gloria Snyder at fivepillarsofhope@gmail.com. These ambitious, bright young adults will be the business owners of our future. Please join us in these fundraising efforts which include a Golf Tournament on Friday March 23, 2018. Details at www.tlba.org We’d like to thank Christian Brothers Automotive for stepping up as this year’s Title Sponsor. Their dedication to our community is commendable.

January Lunch-n-Learn

When: Tuesday Jan. 16, 2018 12:15-2:00 pm Where: Tavern at Towne Lake Hills E. Cost: $14 ( includes lunch ) Speaker: Jared Kleinert CEO of Kleinert Ventures, TED Speaker, Author of 30 Billion Under 30 and “The Most Connected Millennial” ( USA Today ) Topic: “Quadruple Sales in One Month” Thank you for supporting our community by “Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee”

www.tlba.org

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Small businesses need timely accounting and tax advice at affordable rates, so Diane Offutt decided to open a firm that would fill that void, establishing Accounting Connections in June 2003. As a corporate controller, she has worked in public and private firms, and is proficient in accounting and taxation. Offutt earned a master’s of accounting degree at Kennesaw State University. Often small business owners are frustrated that they can’t afford a full-time staff employee to handle accounting or tax issues when they arise. Offutt meets the need by offering accounting and tax services as an outside consultant. She’s a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, and will set up accounting, train staff and offer monthly support. As an Enrolled Agent (EA), she is admitted to practice before IRS. The continuing professional education requirements of an EA keep her informed of tax laws, allowing her to provide effective tax planning, preparation and representation. Offutt is a member of the National Association of Tax Professionals, National Association of Enrolled Agents, Cherokee Chamber of Commerce and the Towne Lake Business Association. She can be reached at DianeOffutt@AccountingConnections.org or 770-846-7799. www.AccountingConnections.org.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Can We Afford to Live to 100? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Some of us may retire at 65 and live to 100 or 105. Advances in health care may make this a strong possibility. The corresponding question is: Will we outlive our money? Our increased longevity poses a retirement planning challenge. More people are spending more of their lives in retirement. According to the actuaries at Social Security, today’s 65-year-olds have roughly a 25 percent chance of living into their 90s, and about one in 10 will live to 100 or older. Clearly, this puts a strain on Social Security. When it first sent out retirement benefits in 1940, the average life expectancy for a 65-yearold was 79. It was not designed to fund 30-year retirements.1,2 Social Security aside, many Americans are retiring with inadequate savings. A Vanguard study says that retirement savers aged 65 or older have average balances of just $197,000 in their workplace retirement accounts. IRA distributions, home or business sale proceeds, and pension and Social Security income may help them out in the first decade of retirement, but what about the decades that might follow?3 Three factors may lead us into a gigantic retirement crisis. People are not saving enough, they are living longer than ever, and the retirement planning process now emphasizes self-reliance. These challenges amount to a “perfect storm” for the financially underprepared and unfortunate, a population that threatens to grow. There are three ways pre-retirees can respond to these

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

challenges. One, retire later. Two, save and invest more and spend less. Three, consult a financial professional about retirement planning rather than going it alone. If Gen-Xers and baby boomers are lucky, they may see a fourth response in the form of legislative changes to help retirees. Retiring after age 70 could become the norm in 10-15 years. Pair healthier seniors and new technologies, and you could see millions of septuagenarians working 40-hour weeks. Retiring at 75 could leave us with 10 fewer years of retirement to fund. Retirement saving is not a top priority for many households, especially given today’s economic pressures. That does not mean it can be ignored. We used to save more than we do now: The U.S. personal saving rate routinely exceeded 7 percent until the mid-1990s. During the Great Recession, it reached 8.1 percent; in September 2017, it was down to 3.1 percent, with personal saving levels mirroring those seen right before the Great Recession.4 How many pre-retirees chat with a financial professional about their goals and investment approach? How many have defined goals and investment approaches? continued on page 89

Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.

Breathe Easier! Sleep Better! Get Healthier! CherokeeLungAndSleep.com

Our board-certified physicians have helped thousands over the years breathe easier, sleep better and get healthier. Using the latest in nonsurgical care, lifestyle therapies and stateof-the-art medical devices and medications, our patients are served with the most advanced pulmonary and sleep disorder care possible. Additionally, we treat or supervise critical care treatment and ICU patient care.

Our Canton Office Has Moved! 678-493-2527 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 130 Canton, GA 30115 Located in medical office building on Northside Hospital Cherokee campus

New Woodstock Office Now Open 770-852-7740 900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 206 Woodstock, GA 30189

Dr. Akhil Vallabhaneni

Dr. Matthew Haack

Located on Northside-Cherokee Towne Lake Medical Campus

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

RESTAURANT

CUISINE

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS

RESERV.

Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway 770-693-4680

Mexican

open

full bar

Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com

American

open

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

open

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net

Homestyle Cooking

closed

GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com

Barbeque

$-$$

open

Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740

American

open

full bar

yes

Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub no $$ $$-$$$ open full bar 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net

La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Corner Bistro, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-1202, cornerbistrotl.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616

Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Townelake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com

Mexican

open

full bar

LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway Steakhouse no $ $$ open full bar 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com Maple Street Biscuit Co., 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy #160 678-903-2161, maplestreetbiscuits.com

call ahead seating

Southern

closed

Marco’s Pizza, 2068 Eagle Drive 678-213-2100, marcos.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com

Pizza/Pasta/

$-$$

open

beer/wine

NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, 678-426-7004

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Chinese

$-$$

open

Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com Song’s Garden, 4451 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com

Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Dr., American no $ $$ open full bar 770-592-9969 see ad on pg 57

The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com

Asian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Hometown Girl is Crowned KSU Homecoming Queen Towne Lake resident and Etowah High School graduate Taylor Snow was crowned homecoming queen at Kennesaw State University (KSU) this past fall. She graduated with honors in December with a degree in public relations and a minor in professional writing. Snow explained that the process of becoming homecoming queen was a lengthy one, since KSU wants members of the homecoming court to represent the school based on community involvement and school spirit, not just popularity.

Taylor was crowned by 2016 Homecoming Queen and sorority sister Copelyn Jue.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

“Students interested in being on the homecoming court had to fill out an application and answer several questions. Applications were reviewed by the homecoming committee and accepted or denied based on the responses. The next step was an interview with a faculty member and the former KSU homecoming king or queen. Students who made it past the interview were placed on the homecoming court ballot, and were eligible to be voted for their respective title. This year, a junior court was added to the process. In the past, there was just a king and queen that only juniors or seniors were eligible to apply for, but this year underclassmen were able to apply for the title of duke, duchess, prince or princess. Homecoming week is already an exciting time for students, and so being able to play a major role in all of the activities while we campaigned for ourselves was an amazing experience. We had the opportunity to participate in team trivia, the homecoming game parade, and were announced at the lip sync event. It was an honor to stand among Kennesaw’s finest. All of the contestants are active in the community, as well as in the school, so it was great to be able to share common values and interests.

2017 Homecoming Queen and King, Taylor Snow and Nevin McRay.

When my name was announced for queen, I was so shocked, but I was even more overwhelmed by the amount of cheering from my sorority sisters, family and classmates. With it being one of the last big moments of my undergraduate degree, I couldn’t have been happier to represent the school that has allowed me so many amazing memories and experiences.”

Father&Daughter

4th Annual

ATE & PUBLIC, PRIV LS IN IR G L O HOMESCHO WELCOME -8 K ES D GRA PRESENTED BY

ETO WA H

LADY EAGLE L A C RO S S E

FEBRUARY 10th 2018 6:00 - 9:00 PM

ETOWAH HIGH SCHOOL * NEW GYM (Sorry, no drop-offs at this event)

SCAN HERE OR PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE! www.etowahgirlslacrosse.com dance questions? contact myGuyAndMeDance@gmail.com

What’s your New Year’s re$olution?

Want a better handle on your money this year? COUNTRY Financial® can help you get your financial house in order. Start the new year right with COUNTRY® Financial.

Jessica D. Hughes, CFS® Financial Representative Woodstock, GA (678) 535-5273

Auto, Home, and Commercial policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®, or COUNTRY Preferred Insurance Company®. Life insurance policies issued by COUNTRY Life Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. Fixed Annuities issued by COUNTRY Investors Life Assurance Company®. Issuing companies located in Bloomington, IL.

1217-031

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Outdoor heaters kept the music fans warm.

On a Musical Note

Caleb Guy, son of Chris and Mollie Guy, was invited to grab his guitar and join them for a song.

All musicians, including an inquisitive young guest from the crowd, shared the stage. 62

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Haddy Nix, daughter of Reformation Breweryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spencer and Paula Nix, played with Kurt and Keenum all evening.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAREY HOOD, JUST A FAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Musicians Kurt Wheeler and David Keenum - Kurt and Keenum - performed on the patio of Reformation Brewery for patrons taking a break from holiday festivities. Kurt is a teacher at ACE Academy and David is a retired music teacher from Cherokee County schools.

UNEXPECTED REPAIR BILLS NO MORE!

Get your next system from Reliable and NEVER pay for another heating or cooling repair again.

IT’S GETTING COLD IN HERE!

FURNACE SPECIAL

$1795

INSTALLED

Doing it great since ‘78! 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

LICENSED, BONDED AND INSURED

WE TAKE PRIDE IN OUR FAIR PRICES

COMPLETE HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM

COMPLETE SYSTEM TUNE-UP

$3995 installed

$89 1ST SYSTEM $59 2ND SYSTEM

TRANE 1.5 ton A/C, cooling coil, 80% AFUE 40K furnace and programmable thermostat. Standard installation. Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Cash, check, or credit card only. Expires 2/1/18.

Includes 1” pleated filter. Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 2/1/18.

trane 40k btu 80% gas furnace and programmable thermostat. standard installation.

100% FINANCING AVAILABLE AND BAD CREDIT OK

Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Cash, check or credit card only. Expires 2/1/18.

COMPLETE AIR DUCT CLEANING

WATER HEATER SPECIAL

$25 OFF

$1395 INSTALLED

Camera inspection, high power vacuum, power whip all duct work, wash & scrub all HVAC grills & registers, blower & drain pan, 1” pleted filter, indoor evaporator coil, deodorize system. Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 2/1/18.

Includes up to 5 ft of flue & thermal expansion tank. Call for details. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 2/1/18.

RELIABLEAIR.COM

CALL/TEXT (770) 594-9969 TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Seniors on the Go Silver Roamers is an active group of seniors who meet monthly to discuss upcoming events and visit with each other. Membership benefits include discounts on events and trips, eligibility to win prizes through the Roamers Mileage Club and the chance to see attractions around the state. Annual membership is $24. Monthly meetings will be held March 5, April 16 and May 16. For more information, call Frankie Sanders at 770-924-7768 or email fsanders@cherokeega.com. www.crpa.net.

Jan. 8, Feb. 5, March 5, April 16

Adult coloring. Noon at the Recreation Center. $5 members, $20 nonmembers.

Jan. 11

March 8

Cherokee County Airport tour and Riverstone Corner Bistro. $25 members, $35 nonmembers.

March 14

Bees Knees cooking class. $25 members, $35 nonmembers.

March 29

Ball Ground Historic Walking Tour and Burger Bus. $25 members, $35 nonmembers.

April 10

Etowah Indian Mounds and Swheat Market Deli. $35 members, $45 nonmembers.

The Escape Room and Village Tavern. $40 members,

April 17

Jan. 23

April 30-May 3

$50 nonmembers.

Chattanooga Cycleboats. $45 members, $55 nonmembers.

I-Fly. Lunch on your own at Cumberland Mall. Cost is

$75 members, $85 nonmembers.

Amelia Island. Register Jan. 2-Feb. 27. $150 nonrefundable deposit due at registration. $800 double room, $1,150 single room.

Feb. 8

May 10

Hindi Temple and Shayona Café. $35 members,

$45 nonmembers.

Feb. 15

Mystery trip. $60 members, $70 nonmembers.

Mystery Trip. $70 members, $80 nonmembers.

May 16

Member appreciation luncheon at the Union Hill Community Center. Lunch catered by Four 41 South. Free to members.

The Arbor at BridgeMill’s Charter Club offers a host of great benefits, which means you won’t want to miss the chance to become a member. Call us today to take advantage of our limited opening incentives — a $5,000 value. Contact Brooke Wall about our Charter Club discounts, bwall@arborcompany.com

Experience the luxury of a carefree lifestyle. Join the Charter Club today.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

(770) 766-9323 | www.ArborBridgeMill.com 700 Freedom Blvd. | Canton, GA 30114

Life in the Fast Lanes continued from page 21

The Northwest Corridor Express Lanes are a part of the Georgia Express Lanes system, a network of toll lanes that run alongside existing interstates in some of the most congested corridors around metro Atlanta. In addition to the Northwest Corridor, the Georgia Express Lanes system includes the existing I-85 Express Lanes and the I-75 South Metro Express Lanes project, which opened in early 2017. The reversible I-75 South Metro Express Lanes in Clayton and Henry Counties surpassed all expectations, serving more than 1 million trips since opening. Northbound morning commute trips in the express lanes are traveling on average 13 mph faster than those in the general purpose lanes, and southbound evening express lane commutes are running on average 21 mph faster. In addition, the general purpose lanes have seen less traffic during the morning and evening commutes. More express lanes are coming throughout the Atlanta region to build out the connected Georgia Express Lanes system. An extension to the I-85 Express Lanes began construction in summer 2016 and is scheduled to open in 2018. Four additional express lanes are being planned as part of the Georgia DOT’s Major Mobility Investment Program (MMIP). This program is moving forward 11 significant transportation improvement projects designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve mobility options statewide.

How will drivers know what to do? •There will be plenty of signage to alert motorists when they

will need to exit the express lanes to use a regular existing exit/ interchange on I-575. Closer to the time that the lanes open, a sign tutorial will be posted on the website (www.dot.ga.gov/DS/GEL/ NWC) with more guidance on the signs motorists can expect to see, approximate mileage points where drivers will see the signs, etc. “This will allow those who want to use the express lanes to familiarize themselves with the signs and times to exit prior to the system opening,” spokeswoman Jill Goldberg said.

How much time will the lanes save drivers? •Data is available that projects how much time a driver could save using the express lanes. For example, it would take 16 minutes using the express system to travel south on I-75 during morning rush hour — from where the toll lanes start at Hickory Grove Road in Cobb County to where they end just inside the Perimeter. Compare that with 39 minutes in the general purpose lane, or 40 minutes if the project had not been built.

will it cost? •TollWhat rates will be set by the State Road and Tollway Authority

(SRTA) Board of Directors approximately 6-8 weeks before opening. Rates of the two existing systems range from 10 to 90 cents per mile. “If you look on the web at stories of the I-85 toll, you will see that, at the very peak periods of about an hour a day, some people pay tolls in the $14 to $15 range for the entire system, but the average toll paid is less than $2,” Goldberg said. “I-85 is a mature system that has built up many dedicated users after six years of operations. The I-75 South [Metro] Express lanes users have much lower toll rates, as it hasn’t even been open for a year yet. The overall average fare on I-75 is just 60 cents. The peak period sees tolls around $1.15 to $1.30. So, you can see that the range of rates is great between the two systems – part of that due to the time each has been opened and part of it due to when people choose to use it and get in/get out.”

What's the price tag for this project? •The cost is about $826 million. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Senior Sense:

Everyday Life Opportunities BY DELIA HALVERSON

We grandparents and parents often miss the greatest opportunities to talk with children because we just don’t pick up on the chances. One Sunday, decades ago when we lived in North Dakota, I filled in for a teacher of preschool children at the last minute. There was no lesson plan and only a few storybooks in the room. That hour held a true test of my ability to wing it. We found papers and crayons, and I asked the children to draw different members of their family. The small number in the class was to my advantage. As they drew, we talked about each family member, and I labeled the pictures. We talked about how God planned for us to live in families so that we could learn all the things we need to know in order to grow up. During the conversation, one child saw a homemade windmill in a nearby yard, turning in the wind. I asked them who made the wind. They shared with me other things that blow in the wind – the trees, the weeds, our hats! As we looked out the window a boy pointed out a lawnmower, half covered with snow. My mind raced for a link between the lawnmower and our conversation on God. We talked about our care for the lawn when the grass grows; how God depends on us to care for our plants; and how God

Every Picture Tells A Story Portraits | Corporate | Lifestyle & Family Commercial Marketing | Weddings | Events Canvas and Metal Prints Available 404.384.2794 404.200.0881

www.jkingimages.com

@ jkingimages

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

planned for seasons when plants rest and seasons when plants grow. One of the children asked me to read a story about the night. As we read, I stopped to allow the children time to share experiences of the night. We talked about God’s plan for nights so that we can rest and our bodies grow stronger. A preschooler’s ability to sit still for any length of time is remarkably short. I moved with the children to a box of toys. As they played, they told me about the parade they were forming. We talked about God’s plan for good times and some of the good times they had experienced during parades. Everyday situations with children can be teaching aides. It requires only an alertness to grasp a situation and turn it into a learning experience. Parents and grandparents hold the key to ideal learning opportunities. The time to teach a preschool child any religious idea is at the time of the experience.

Delia writes books and leads workshops internationally. She and her husband settled in Woodstock after living in eight states. Their children and grandchildren live nearby.

WellStar and Mayo Clinic. Working together. Working for you. Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer now that we are a proud member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise of Mayo to our patients. As the first and only member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in metro Atlanta, our depth of specialty care is enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping patient care right here at home. Innovation. World-class care. WellStar. For more information, please visit wellstar.org/mayo. For physician referral, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).

WellStar Health System, the largest health system in Georgia, is known nationally for its innovative care models, focused on improving quality and access to healthcare. WellStar consists of WellStar Medical Group, 240 medical office locations, outpatient centers, health parks, a pediatric center, nursing centers, hospice, homecare, as well as 11 inpatient hospitals: WellStar Atlanta Medical Center, WellStar Atlanta Medical Center South, WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center (anchored by WellStar Kennestone Hospital), WellStar West Georgia Medical Center, and WellStar Cobb, Douglas, North Fulton, Paulding, Spalding Regional, Sylvan Grove and Windy Hill hospitals. As a not-forprofit, WellStar continues to reinvest in the health of the communities it serves with new technologies and treatments.

We believe in life well-lived.

Christmas Parade 2017 Downtown Woodstock

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM

North Georgia Toy Run

The annual North Georgia Toy Run, an event started in 1981 by Greg Kraut Hartman and a few friends, celebrated its largest participation with more than 1,000 bikers in December. Hartman owns Hartman T/F Cycles on Highway 20 in Canton. Hartman said he learned from his father the importance of helping others, and came up with the idea because he wanted to give back to the community that’s been so good to him. This year, nine truckloads of toys were collected for children in Cherokee and Pickens counties. Here’s how it works. On the day of the event, motorcyclists each bring two toys and ride to the Moose Lodge in Canton, where they leave one toy for Cherokee County Division of Family and Children’s Services, and enjoy a meal. Then they ride to the Jasper Chamber of Commerce, where they leave the second toy for local Lions Club members to distribute. For more info on the toy drive, visit www.facebook.com/ hartmancycles/.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM

Cherokee P hotography Club

Congratulations to each of you who entered images in the October competition,"Transportation!â&#x20AC;?

If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

Color Prints:

1st Martin Longstaff "Rethymnon"

3rd Eillene Kirk "Biking the Krog"

2nd David Ferguson "Bagger"

HM Becky Sapp "Head in the Clouds"

Monochromatic:

1st Â David Ferguson "Old School" 72

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

2nd Martin Longstaff "Aberlady Bay"

3rd Michael Brubaker "Southern Pacific 4449"

HM Russ Miller "The Bus Stops Here"

Digital Projection:

1st Martin Longstaff "Longtail"

3rd Frank Mills "Rolling on the River"

2nd Dean Kelley "Beached"

HM Brenda Clapp "Resting Kayak"

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

7th annual

S hop W ith a H ero F undraiser The event, sponsored by the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, was held before Christmas at His Hands Church, to raise money to make it possible for children in Cherokee County to go shopping for Christmas presents for themselves or their family members. Members of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s police and fire departments accompanied the children on their shopping spree. Participants paid $15 per meal; 100 percent of the proceeds went to Shop With a Hero.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM

Faith

Marriage Moments PROFESSIONAL.EXPERIENCED.RELIABLE.

PAINTING • SIDING • WINDOWS • DOORS

Teamwork is Healthy BY BILL RATLIFF

• Family Owned & Operated • Licensed & Insured • Professional Courteous Staff • Lifetime Repair Warranty • We Always Use the Best Products We will beat any bid from a reputable competitor.

precisionpaintingatlanta.com CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

678-234-9668 Serving Towne Lake Since 1999 Phil Rowe, Towne Lake Resident

Marriage is about teamwork. So many couples consume the positive energy of their relationship by constantly competing against each other. The Bible calls us to complement, not compete. There is nothing wrong with competing in sports activities, board games or cards, as long as the stakes are low. When losing becomes an emotional crisis for one of the partners, I believe that the activity should be curtailed. Teamwork in the context of marriage is not easy, but takes intentional effort. There is a couple in the Bible that provides clues to developing a healthy team concept within the marriage; his name is Manoah, but her name isn’t mentioned. We notice in Judges 13:9 that Manoah’s wife had the profound experience of seeing and hearing an angel of God. What did she do? Did she spend time just dwelling and reveling in that spiritual mountain-top experience? No, she immediately ran to tell her husband. She loved her man and could not wait to tell him about her incredible experience. Manoah in response did something most men do not like to do. He listened to her. Then he does what for most men is unthinkable. He asks for more details. When she was not able to answer, he prayed for the angel to come to both of them and the angel did. Manoah does not act jealous of her experiences with God’s angel but instead becomes engaged in her encounter with God. I believe their story is a great model of how we are to be as husbands and wives. They were fully engaged with each other. They respected each other. They listened to each other. They prayed together. They worshipped together. They experienced God’s blessings together. They were a team!

Date Your Mate Go to the store and buy a flavor of ice cream that you both enjoy. I know from experience that this decision might be a tough one but decide as a team. Then read together the account of Manoah and his wife in Judges 13:2-24. Notice how she cares for him in his dark moment of anxiety and how ultimately they are greatly blessed by God.

Bill Ratliff is the senior pastor at Towne Lake Community Church. He can be reached at 678-445-8766 or bratliff@tlcchurch.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

A Resolution to ‘Yes, and’ BY THE REV. ELIZABETH LOVELL MILFORD

One of the hallmarks of improv comedy is the concept of “Yes, and,” where a performer uses the offerings of another to create a scene together by accepting whatever is presented (“Yes”) and then building upon it (“and”). It reminds the actors that what is spoken by others is offered as a gift. The job of others onstage is to listen attentively and receive it as that gift, encouraging each other and building upon what It would others have offered. The simplest way to do this? mean really Start your response with “Yes, listening and.” Without it, a scene quickly falls apart; with it, nothing is out of to what reach. others are As we begin a new year, many of us will make resolutions to improve saying. ourselves and our lives. What if, alongside these resolutions, we resolved to say “Yes, and” to others as much as possible? It would mean really listening to what others are saying. It would mean less tearing down and more building up. Can you imagine the potential for the stories we might create together if we engaged in this kind of flexible, joyful

community formation? The energy that it generates would vault our shared stories forward, even to unexpected places. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes to encourage the early church to do just that. He writes, “Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9, NRSV) It is as if Paul knew that the key to growth and new life was about moving forward, rejoicing and encouraging one another. The story of 2018 is yet to be written. May we take the stage and create a scene together, building on the gifts of our family, our friends and our neighbors with a “Yes, and,” and seeing where it goes from there.

The Rev. Elizabeth Lovell Milford lives in Woodstock with her family and serves as pastor of Heritage Presbyterian (Acworth), a congregation passionate about local mission.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

School & Sports

Effective Communication

A New Year â&#x20AC;Ś New Talents BY JOSEPH LEMMO

This school year, I will continue to focus on effective communication in the classroom, but I am adding the element of talents. I have learned in life that your true talents can be a gateway to building relationships with others. new year is often a time when people set "The goals or make resolutions. This year make your

goal something you always have wanted to achieve. For example, this year I want to be able to stand up to my class and present easier. I know I can achieve this in time. Maybe I could practice in front of my parents or friends. During 2018, I will try my hardest to talk as clearly as I can by practicing over and over. When time comes to present, it will be a piece of cake! Getting used to a bunch of eyes looking at you is not easy, but this year I am going to really work on that. If you have a goal that you have always thought you would never achieve, now is the time to try it. After all, 2018 is only so long.

Avery DiGirolamo

I would like to improve for the new "Atalent year is remembering to clean my room and

do the dishes without my mom telling me to. I feel that I could make this happen by setting a reminder on my phone for a certain time to clean my room and a certain time to do the dishes, and then I will not forget, because I am always on my phone. Another way is, I could write a note for myself for when I get off the bus so I can go straight to my room or the dishwasher instead of the couch to watch television. One last reason I could accomplish my talent is not making up excuses and just getting the work done. If I do all these steps, I finally can accomplish my goal. My room always would be clean and the dishes always will be done!

Alyce Boucher 78

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Everybody has talents whether they "Talents. know it or not. Personally, I have a few talents.

However, one sticks out more than others â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I am very talented when it comes to videography and editing videos. Not only am I good at it, I love doing it. I'm not saying that I'm a pro or anything, but I do feel that I am very skilled at what I do, for my age. I could improve on some things, though. First, I could start being more consistent with uploading videos. Lately, I have been slacking off on consistency, and I need to work on that. Second, I could start improving on quality. This could include adding better music, doing fancier editing tricks, etc. Finally, I might need to upgrade my equipment. I could buy a better camera, maybe get better lenses, and upgrade editing software. Everybody has a talent, but nobody is perfect at them. If you keep working hard and persevering, you might just get there!

Connor Greene

new year is often a time when people "The set goals or make resolutions. One goal or

resolution I have set for myself is to become a better singer. In my opinion, I'm an amazing singer, but the rest of my family will disagree. Every time I "try" to sing, one or both of my parents will tell me to stop, followed by my brother saying the same thing, but much louder. In the new year, I will attempt to convince my parents to sign me up for singing lessons, and I will practice at home, in the basement, with the door shut, so no one can hear. Hopefully, after several lessons, I will become a better singer and, by 2019, I will be the next Adele!

Abby Johnson

Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv in the Atlanta area. He and his wife have one son.

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Students Gave and Received During the Holidays Etowah High School senior Garrett Ruslin used his senior project to make a difference in the community by raising $850 to help local children in need. Ruslin created limited-edition Etowah T-shirts and sweatshirts, and sold them at school and online. Profits benefited the school’s Shop With An Eagle program, which provides underprivileged children the chance to buy holiday gifts.

Sorting and packing the donations are: Kennedi Morris-Gibbs, Kylee Meadows, Amelia Ludwiczak, Grey Davis, Molly Mohrmann, Taylor Kallbreier, Elizabeth Porter, Alex Tomsey, Bryson Tharpe, Caroline Reach, Addison Bishop, Kate Dallas, Caitlin Croft, Mathew Valente, Ava Tyner and Austin Sandora.

Bascomb Elementary School students, staff and families donated 1,149 pounds of food for the school’s holiday food drive. The donations benefitted the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Garrett Ruslin, second from right, presents his donation for Shop With An Eagle to, from left, school counselor Michele Dowd, Principal Robert Horn and facilitator Dr. Erin Jacobs.

Woodstock Elementary School recently received a generous donation from community partner, Woodstock City Church. The church presented the school with 180 boxes of snacks that teachers and staff members can distribute to students in need. “The school administration thanks the church and the entire congregation for their generosity and support of Woodstock Elementary School students,” Principal Kim Montalbano said. Pictured with the donation boxes are (front row, from left): Liz Lewis, Kim Montalbano; back row: Jessica Carvalho, Chloe Kliment, Riley Dobias and Kelly Metka.

Woodstock Elementary School’s Student Council raised $1,200 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through a Parents Night Out fundraiser. During the event, students made a craft, danced and watched a movie, while their parents started their holiday shopping. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

College Reps Share Valuable Info Woodstock High School regularly welcomes university and college representatives to its campus for visits with students. These officials answer students’ questions about such topics as admissions, financial aid, programs and student life.

Gordon State College representative Taylor Perdue met with students, from left, Cardur St. Pierre, Luis Castaneda, Zach Baitcher, Nathan Kashani and Jabari Overton.

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Towne Lake Optimist Essay Contest Compose a 700- to 800-word essay around the topic: “Can Society Function Without Respect?” Contest is open to participants under the age of 18 as of Oct. 1, 2017. Entries are due to Towne Lake Optimist Club by Jan. 22. For complete official rules, please visit www.optimist.org. In addition to developing skills for written expression, participants also can win a college scholarship of $2500.

2017 Senior Bowl Football players, cheerleaders, marching band members and JROTC from the Class of 2018 had one last night under the high school gridiron lights on Dec. 7, at the 2017 Varsity Brands Senior Bowl. The game was a benefit for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Cherokee High School head coach Josh Shaw led the red team, comprised of players from Cherokee, Woodstock and River Ridge high schools, while Etowah’s head coach Dave Svelah led the royal team, made up of seniors from Etowah, Creekview and Sequoyah high schools. The royal team won with a close score of 22-20 on a frosty night at River Ridge High School stadium. At halftime, six students were presented scholarships from premier sponsor Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram of Canton. The recipients were: Allyson Bethke (Sequoyah), Landon Dixon (Woodstock), Cheney Hardin (Cherokee), Yolimar Rivera (Woodstock), Christopher Cochran (River Ridge), and Elizabeth Anderson (Woodstock). Elizabeth's scholarship was given in memory of Woodstock High School junior Maddi Phillips, who died in a car accident earlier this year. Maddi's family was present to help award Cheerleaders from all six schools were there for the opening the scholarship to Elizabeth. kickoff.

The royal team consisted of Etowah, Creekview and Sequoyah players, while the red team was drafted from Cherokee, Woodstock and River Ridge. 80

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Music teacher Mary Ellen Johnson directed the chorus for the performance.

Celebration of Lights and Music

Fred Blankenship interviews chorus members.

According to principal Penny Valle, the Oak Grove Elementary School Fine Arts Academy Chorus stole the show at the Celebration of Lights event at Northside Hospital Cherokee. “It was the best chorus performance ever!” Valle said. “Even emcee WSB-TV news anchor Fred Blankenship was blown away with the talent of our students.”

State Representative Visits Clark Creek State Rep. Wes Cantrell, who serves on the State House Education Committee, recently paid a visit to Clark Creek Elementary School STEM where he took a tour, observed instructional strategies and technology use, spoke with students about their learning experiences and met with Principal Joey Moss and staff members. “I see that the Clark Creek teachers give students a choice in what kind of learning space works best for them through flexible seating. I really enjoyed seeing that in action today and talking to the kids about how they are really connecting with what they are learning,” Rep. Cantrell said. Computer science teacher Lindsay Mangieri and her students speak with Weimer after his presentation.

New Lunchtime Lecture Series Launches

Cantrell speaks with students Luz Jimenez, Emily Ivers and Jessica Gonzales.

Woodstock High School has launched a lunch lecture series called STEMposium. The goal is to offer students more opportunities to learn about STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers. The school, which recently earned the prestigious state STEM certification, will regularly host speakers from STEM fields to present lectures in the media center for students during lunch breaks. The first speaker was Andrew Weimer, vice president of engineering and XOC at Comcast, who spoke about his career, job opportunities and future technology and innovation being developed and used at Comcast. Upcoming speakers include medical professionals, scientists, a technology product analyst and a research engineer. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Meeting Jan. 26, Topic TBA For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

Ridgewalk Pkwy

To I-575 Exit 9

Woodstock Community Church

The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta at Nike

Woodstock

T Public Library

Public Parking Lots

Dobbs Rd

- park in marked spaces only

Trolley Routes outlined in red

City Center

Pkwy

Woodstock UMC (M-Sa) St

Trail

er St

Mca

bb d Rd

Reeves St

tim

CSB Bank (after 5PM)

ry St

iley

Fowler St

Hicko

Reformation Brewery Fri 6:00-close Sat 2:00-close Sun 2:00-close

Wheel

Oak St

le St

T T

Elm

Map

in St

reek

E Ma

day C

To GA Hwy 140

Noon

T Park at City Center Arnold Mill Rd

Mill

ffee

Lake

Route and schedule subject to change Check downtownwoodstock.org/trolley for more info

Cham bers

Town e

Wall

To I-575 Exit 8

Mark et S t

Fridays 6-10 PM Saturdays 4-10 PM Sundays 2-6 PM

Chattahoochee Technical College

Kyle St

TROLLEY SCHEDULE:

Main

Trolley Stop

T St

On-Street Parking

Main

Rope Mill Rd

- park in marked spaces only - parking in Woodstock UMC lot is M-Sa only

Pade n St

PHOTO BY BEN REES WWW.FALCONAERIALS.COM

Welcome to

To GA Hwy 92

r Pe

ns ki

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone see ad on pg 29 Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican no $ $-$$ open Full bar yes 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer 150 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios 8722 Main St madlifestageandstudios.com

Southern

yes

no Weekends only no

$-$$

$$-$$$$

open

Full bar

Magnolia Thomas Southern 108 Arnold Mill Rd. 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com

Sunday Brunch

$$$$

open

Beer/Wine

yes

Pure Taqueria Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006

Sat./Sun. Brunch

open

Full bar

6 persons+

Sunday Brunch

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Rootstock and Vine 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com

Wine bar Tapas

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Salt Factory Pub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225

Gastropub

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

American

open

Full bar

English Tea room

closed

yes

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

Sunday Brunch

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 84

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20 * denotes advertiser

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING

Elm Street

Breaking Ground for New Era at Elm Street BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

Every new year we tend to look at ourselves and begin looking to the entire year to contemplate our dreams and aspirations. We also do this at Elm Street, but this year it is a little different. In the last few years, we focused on a singular medium: theater. Now, we can unpack theater into so many different layers that we have definitely kept ourselves busy: musicals, plays, classes, camps and more. But the true intent of Elm Street was to be bigger. Way bigger. We focus on the community and our role in it. The arts play a role in (or dare I say, is the catalyst for) driving the culture, the economy and creative placemaking. But until now, we’ve only been able to do this with that singular dimension: theater. For our This year we break ground on the community, Reeves House, an old farmhouse in downtown Woodstock that was built we break in 1897. It is kind to say the house is ground on dilapidated. But it will soon become a vibrant visual arts center. It’s important expanding to also know what else we are our culture breaking ground on. For Elm Street, we begin breaking even more. ground on our original intent to be a full-fledged arts center. Yes, we have some visual art offerings currently (PSA if you haven’t seen what Debbie Tidwell and her students can do with a paint brush you are missing out.), but we will now be able to focus on it. We also hope to provide additional unexpected art experiences to engage even more of the community. For the arts industry, we begin breaking ground on a different approach. We believe that art is not only for the high-brow, refined population. We firmly believe it is for everyone to partake, enjoy, converse and engage in. How fitting that we will house these programs for ALL in one of the original homes in Woodstock. We hope this notion will be a trailblazer for the community. For our community, we break ground on expanding our culture even more. We will strive to have our local flavor meet our regional area to introduce new ideas, conversations, and people. If this isn’t the vibrancy that we all crave, I’m not sure what is. We can’t wait to break ground. We can’t wait for you to join us in this new journey.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

JAN 20TH 7:30PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES Registration Open Now

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251 Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM

Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, ÂŠ OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Visit our website for more information on these or other trail projects. greenprintsalliance.org

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South.

Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 86

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN NOVEMBER

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Can We Afford to Live to 100? continued from page 56

Yes, this sort of consultation is not free â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but it may be worth every penny, just in terms of offering insight as well as possibly steering pre-retirees away from retirement planning errors. If enough seniors struggle to make ends meet (or if there is a national emergency of senior homelessness or indigence), we could see the federal government respond by boosting retirement benefits. Cutting Social Security benefits would be unthinkable in such a crisis, so payroll tax (and the amount of income subject to it) could increase instead. The resulting inflows potentially could help Social Securityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s balance sheet as well as its beneficiaries. We are all financially challenged by increasing longevity. Assuming we need 30-plus years of retirement income is not unorthodox, merely pragmatic. From that assumption, we can plan for our futures with an understanding of how much money we may need to live comfortably and pursue our dreams. Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA / SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors

Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note: Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Citations. 1 - ssa.gov/planners/lifeexpectancy.html [10/30/17] 2 - fool.com/retirement/2017/03/21/11-facts-about-socialsecurity-every-retiree-shoul.aspx [3/21/17] 3 - cnbc.com/2017/10/23/trump-says-there-will-be-nochange-to-401k-plans.html [10/23/17] 4 - fred.stlouisfed.org/series/PSAVERT [10/30/17]

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Reference

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org.

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.

Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org.

Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com.

Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.

Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org.

Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org

Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560.

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com.

CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org.

Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com.

Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org.

Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com.

Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services.

Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org.

Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com.

MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org.

Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org.

Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net.

Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net.

Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.

North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org.

Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.

Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org.

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Thursdays at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Association - Cherokee Division 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 2-4 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month at Resurrection Anglican Church, 231 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. 954-830-7274. sbr4psp@gmail.com. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org.

Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818. Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777.

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366.

Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org.

Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412.

Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at Jump Kitchen & Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock 678-882-0915. www.cherokeecounty.gop.

Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.

Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com.

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687.

Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com, www.pilotinternational.com.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179.

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-7896158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.

Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org.

Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com.

Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com.

Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514.

Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org.

Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS

Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 770-345-3489. www.cherokeedemocrats.com.

Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org.

Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | January 2018

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org

AME

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Rd, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest Baptist Church 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

JEWISH

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell

770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

UNITED METHODIST

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Rd. Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road Canton, GA 30115 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life

Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572 www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com

Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main Street, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Advertisers

For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com

January 2018

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.AnimalAtlanta.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Sassy Paws Pet Boutique 678-275-2126 www.sassypawspb.com

Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com Limbocker Law 678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com

77 1

Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 7 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail 31 770-592-8102 www.townelakescarwashanddetail.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY SALON & SPA élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com 94

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org

Big Blue Z 470-305-1228 www.BigBlueZ.com Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900 www.ccrguys.com

North Cobb Christian School 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org

Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES 60

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707

Cynthia Cline, CPA 404-748-1082

Country Financial 678-535-5273

Evolve Bank & Trust 45 Andrea Meador, Senior Mortgage Loan Officer Office 770-924-2451, Cell 770-714-9227 www.getevolved.com Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA 678-919-1250 jjacksoncpa.com

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)

Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

EDUCATION

DENTAL

Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com Music Together 678-613-2048 www.musictogether.com

CHIROPRACTIC Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

COMPUTERS

AUTOMOTIVE

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com

Downtown Buzz 82 770-592-6056 www.mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com

Salon Gloss and Spa 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz

FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

HEALTH & FITNESS 35

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 76 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.ClubPilates.com/woodstock Hustle House 330-416-2817 www.HustleHousehw.com

R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

CFM Electrical 678-614-9661

ClearView window cleaning & pressure washing 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com

Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

Designs by Fitzgerald 404-376-5443

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.DrFixitPHD.com

Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.MrJunk1.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-00459

PHOTOGRAPHY/PRINT/DESIGN Darleen Prem Photography 770-354-0675

J. King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.jkingimages.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology 29 Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.AtlantaGynOnc.com Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists Woodstock: 770-852-7740 Canton: 678-493-2527 www.CherokeeLungAndSleep.com

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

Etowah Girls Lacrosse Father Daughter Dance 61 www.etowahgirlslacrosse.com

North Georgia Clinical Reasearch 678-494-5735 www.NGClinicalResearch.com

Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

Cover, 48, 49

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 36 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Perimeter North Medical Associates 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com WellStar Health System 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org/mayo

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Tara Daigle 404-925-6351

Etowah High School Tip-Off Club www.etowahbasketball.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD

Marietta Eye Clinic 770-427-8111 www.MariettaEye.com

Northside Pediatrics 770-928-0016 www.NorthsidePediatrics.com

Southeast Mortgage 770-279-0222, ext. 719 Todd Littlejohn: 678-662-3451

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

Eyes on Towne Lake 770-702-5996 www.eyesontownelake.com

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 43 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

Northside Hospital Cherokee www.NorthsideCherokee.com

OPTOMETRIST

Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-880-3071

Cruise Planners, Kathy Faisal O:678-445-5235,C:770-231-7033

Professional Installed Floors 770-627-4343 www.proinstalledfloors.com

RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com

Cherokee County Tennis Assoc. www.cherokeetennis.org

Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com

Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Northside Cherokee Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Inside front (770) 517-6636 northsidecherokeeortho.com

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 www.FireStoneRestaurants.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910 smallcakeswoodstock.myshopify.com Tavern at Towne Lake 770-926-6097 www.tavernattownelake.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Flag Company, The 770-974-0507, www.Flagco.com

Nature’s Corner Market 41 naturescornertownelake@gmail.com www.naturescornermarket.com North Metro Pools 770-928-6879 www.northmetropool.com

SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Arbor at BridgeMill, The 770-766-9323 www. arborbridgemill.com

Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2018

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.

Patty Ponder

Katherine Amick

Christie Deese

Candi Hannigan

Jackie Loudin

Carla Caldwell

Michelle McCulloch

Laura Latchford

Denise Griffin

At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information. Photos by J King Images.

Karen and Jon Flaig TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400