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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
1
Contents
32 & 33 On the Cover The Arbor at Bridgemill
January 2019
15
34
In Every Issue
Features 14 Readers’ Choice 2019
A new process is ready to go this year, with a nominations term beginning Feb. 1.
15 Here’s to Better Health
In this special section, we’ve gathered inspiring testimonies, healthy recipes, options for exercise and overall harmony to start off the new year.
34 Super Bowl Mania
A few recipes and ideas for fan activities help you make the most of the big game taking place in Atlanta.
42 Corps Members Deployed
42
Members of the Allatoona Lake Corps of Engineers are sent to help in hurricane relief.
4 Around Canton
27
Don Akridge
8 Community News
51
Christopher Brazelton
10 Celebrations
16
Alex Butler
28 Rob’s Rescues
19
Dr. Kawami Clay
31 Ribbon Cuttings
12
Pacer Cordry
38 Downtown Canton Dining Guide
29
Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry
40 Community Calendar
30
Delia Halverson
46 Library Events
16
Kurt Johnson
52
Bryce Jones
50
Joseph Lemmo
22
Jackie Loudin
17
Lee Martin
25
Josh Nelson
42
Christopher Purvis
21
Andrea Mathis
44
Susan Schulz
18
Dan Thrailkill
18
Jessica Tyra
23
Ashley Velez
53 Everyday Angels 54 School News 58 Clubs & Orgs 60 Churches 62 Directory of Advertisers
Advertising Katherine Amick, Director of Marketing 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundCantonMagazine.com @AroundCantonMagazine
2
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Contributors
@AroundCantonMag
@around_canton
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
3
AROUND CANTON The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Canton/ Holly Springs/ Sixes
Letter From the Editor Happy New Year! Here we are, somehow, at the beginning of 2019. There’s something special about a crisp new beginning. Jackie Loudin and I laugh about what nerds we are that we get excited about a new notebook and new pens. The more colors the better. She’s a whiz at using her color pens and a fresh (paper) calendar to make sure our magazines make the printer’s deadlines. I’ll admit that I’m guilty of writing on the first few pages of a new notebook and getting bored of it. I’ll stash it away, forget about it and come back to it later. I’ll rip those pages out and start over again. In an attempt to intellectualize this letter, I thought I’d Google why we (nerds) like new notebooks. Sad to say, I was presented a list of the best laptops to buy. Who would have thought that the word notebook would be more relevant to electronics than a colorfully bound collection of college-ruled paper? I shouldn’t be surprised. Last year was a bit traumatic, as many of the birthdays in my family ended in the number 0. Not saying who, or which milestone. Suffice it to say, it hit pretty close to home. A highlight of the year was spending that birthday in my happy place - on a cruise! In the months before we set sail, I followed a very strict diet. I know I tend to gain about 10 pounds on that sort of vacation, so I lost that much - and more. Apparently I left all thoughts of dieting at sea, because I didn’t resume my plan when we returned. The trip was a great motivation for me. I’m not sure why I can’t seem to find that willpower without such an exciting carrot dangling before me. I will say that after asking for and editing inspirational stories from your neighbors, sharing how they’ve adopted a healthier lifestyle, I’m feeling motivated again. I hope you’ll be inspired as well, when you read their testimonies on pages 16-18. I’m proud of their hard work and dedication to being healthy. We’ve devoted quite a few pages to help you (and us) keep those New Year’s resolutions to take better care of ourselves. Wishing you and yours a happy New Year filled with new notebooks, new G2 gel pens, and great results as you strive to be a healthier you in 2019!
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Canton. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Who’s Moved Halo Restorations and Halo Roofing Pros has moved its headquarters to 2766
Holly Springs Parkway. Halo is a full-service construction and remodeling company, that restores homes from top to bottom. 770-213-7250. www.halorestorations.com.
What’s Coming The city of Canton has been awarded a $100,000 land and water conservation fund grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to build a concrete trail in Etowah Park on the east side of I-575 behind Governor’s Walk. The next step is the city’s acceptance of the conditions before the grant will be accepted. City Manager Billy Peppers said the city would pay some of the construction costs with funds from impact fees or recreation funds from SPLOST.
What’s Changed Williams Orthodontics has partnered with Smile Doctors Braces, a move Dr. Michael Williams said “will take our patient-centered treatment to an even higher level … very little will change for you and your family. We will still be the same doctor with the same great team continuing to offer you the same excellent care for years to come.” For more information about the new management, visit www.smiledoctors.com.
Happy
New Year!
Our Around Canton family wishes you all the best in the new year!
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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COMMUNITY BOARD
The Around Canton Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine and advisors who offer valuable feedback.
Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married
Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She was recently named the public outreach manager for the city of Canton, and continues to volunteer on numerous boards and committees. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren.
Dr. Christopher Alvey, an Owensboro, KY native,
graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, and earned a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 1988. He has owned and operated Cobb Central and Mobile Vet Services, and provided medical and surgical services as a relief veterinarian until he opened BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. Dr. Alvey and wife Kathy have two children, Jake and Madison, four dogs (Bogey, Allie, Lu-Lu and LeRoy) and two cats (Cartman and Aubie).
Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator. She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for more than 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well.
Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of
Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and lives in Woodstock with her son and daughter. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children.
Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Purposeful Play of Georgia, an organization that celebrates kindness and equips young leaders. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the executive board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. Dr. Oliver “Ollie” Evans is the chiropractor at Holly
Springs Chiropractic and Massage. The Cherokee county native attended Holly Springs and Sixes elementary schools and Woodstock Middle and High schools. His secondary education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and health science from Kennesaw State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Dr. Ollie serves as the team doctor for the KSU ice hockey team, is a USA hockey referee, and very involved in the CrossFit community. Dr. Ollie also serves on the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation and several other charity boards. 6
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@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 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton, Holly Springs and Sixes areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 24,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 800 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 64 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Canton 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 2019. Around Canton
1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189
For Advertising: Katherine Amick Katherine@aroundaboutmagazines.com or 678-279-5502
Volume 6, Issue 10
America’s Community Magazine
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS Give a Foster Kid a Suitcase
‘American Pickers’ to Film in Georgia Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz and the “American Pickers” team will be in Georgia in February, filming episodes of the History Channel series. Mike and Frank are making their way across the country, searching for valuable antiques, and would like some suggestions of places to pick. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the duo can explore, send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection (with photos) to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST.
New Floor Adds Rooms to Northside Cherokee Northside Hospital Cherokee recently opened the new eighth floor with 40 new patient beds that has been in construction over the past year. This expansion is the first step in a two-floor expansion to the main tower. The new seventh floor, originally planned for education space, will house 32 patient rooms, and should be complete by fall 2019. “One of the most surprising factors in watching Northside Hospital Cherokee’s growth has been how quickly it has progressed from site planning to construction to now expansion,” said Steve Aslinger, director of facilities and planning for Northside Hospital Healthcare System. Construction also is underway for a second medical office building to open in July 2019. This 125,000-squarefoot space will house physician offices, physical therapy, outpatient lab services, an expanded cardiac rehab facility and a sleep lab relocated from Woodstock. In February, crews will begin work on another twofloor expansion to the Women’s Center. It will include enhancements to the special care nursery, elevating newborn care capabilities to a Level 2 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Aslinger anticipates this project will be completed in 2020. 8
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) and Northside Hospital are hosting the 17th annual Totes 2 Tots drive to collect backpacks and suitcases for foster children in Georgia. Last year’s Canton collection provided 6,000 bags for foster children. Donations of new or nearly new backpacks, duffel bags and suitcases will be accepted at Georgia Cancer Specialists’ Canton location, 228 Riverstone Drive, Jan. 17-19. The annual collection is taking place at 28 sites across Georgia. More than 14,000 children, from infants to teenagers, are in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. Totes 2 Tots aims to change that by giving every foster child in Georgia a new or nearly new backpack, duffel bag or suitcase. Since Totes 2 Tots launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 55,000 bags. GCS and Northside Hospital partner with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to distribute the bags in the counties in which they’re collected. Tom C. Rawlings, interim director of DFCS, praised those who support the program, which helps to bring a measure of comfort and respect to Georgia’s foster children. “The Totes 2 Tots program allows children in foster care the ability to transport their belongings with a sense of dignity,” Rawlings said. “By providing backpacks and luggage, Totes 2 Tots offers our children a sense of stability during an uncertain time.” Totes 2 Tots originally was held on Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a way to honor King’s vision of philanthropy and give back to the community. The event now is held the preceding Thursday-Saturday to kick off a weekend of service in his honor. “Dr. Martin Luther King said, ‘Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.’ That is why the [GCS] physicians and staff take pride in celebrating his memory by participating in Totes 2 Tots for the 17th consecutive year,” said Dr. Cheryl Jones, vice president and chief medical officer at GCS. WSB-TV Family 2 Family has signed on as the media partner for Totes 2 Tots for a 17th year. Additional support is provided by Courier Express. For more information about Totes 2 Tots and a list of drop-off locations, visit gacancer.com/locations. To make a secure online donation, visit give.northside.com/totes2tots.
FREE Arthritis Pain
Seminar Join Us for a Free Seminar Take the first step towards understanding your joint pain as local orthopaedic surgeon Doug B. Widener, MD answers your questions and discusses: Arthritis of the Hip & Knee Non-Surgical and Surgical Joint Pain Treatment Options New Technologies in Hip & Knee Replacement
Friday | January 18, 2019 Noon | Woodmont Golf and Country Club 3105 Gaddis Rd. Canton, GA 30115 Lunch will be provided.
Space is Limited! So, Register Today! To register call 1-888-STRYKER (1-888-787-9537) or visit patients.stryker.com/seminars.
Individual results vary. Not all patients will have the same post-operative recovery and activity level. See your orthopaedic surgeon to discuss your potential benefits and risks. GSNPS-PE-31
Serving Our Neighbors in Need™
Cherokee Program Services • Marietta Program Services Smyrna Program Services • Elizabeth Inn Campus Volunteer Engagement and Donation Center
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
9
Celebrations!
Parker Robitaille
Happy 7th birthday! We are always so proud of you! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Myra.
Walker
Happy fifth birthday! We love you very much! Mommy, Daddy, Grayson, Colton and Barrett.
Lexie-Anne
Our “Sweet Girl” is 16 on Jan. 8. So very proud of you! Love you always, Mama and Daddy.
Colton
Happy second birthday! We love you buddy! Mommy, Daddy, Grayson, Walker and Barrett.
Jan. 25
Dec 23
Happy 20th birthday, Kalee! We love you so much! Love, Mom and Nic Rianne.
Happy birthday to my beautiful Mom! Love, Dillon.
Knox
Happy first birthday! We love you so much! Love Mommy, Daddy, Holden and Kenzi.
LeeLand Banks
Jan. 7 Happy 10th birthday! We love you! Dad, Mom and Penny.
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Celebrating January birthdays at The Lodge at BridgeMill
First row, from left: Ava McLeod, Floanna Long, Sandy Thomas and her service dog Ruger, Anna Ostergaard and Royce Breedlove; second row: Tom Lentz, Cleo Von Kuster, Ana Warren and Willis West; camera shy celebrants: Janice Morgan, Del Eichers, Eddy Hahn, Ed Stelling, Betty Spears, Mel Elmhorst and Jerry Morgan.
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
E-mail to: Jackie@ AroundaboutMagazines.com February deadline is Jan. 10. Please specify Around Canton.
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Posing with shopping participants are police explorers and officers, including: Malayne Cordry, Ashton White, Thomas Warren, Max Stiles, Sgt. Mary Turner, Chris Cochran, Bradley Crowe, Jordan Wigner, Carter Hux, Pacer Cordry, Tripp Ohar, Michael Shaw and Chief Mark Mitchell.
Explorer Malayne Cordry and Officer Pacer Cordry with a young man proud of his purchases.
Shop With a Cop Explorer Thomas Warren (taking notes in the back) with Sgt. Mary Turner and a happy family.
Explorer Darian Cleveland and Chief Mark Mitchell shop with a family. 12
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
The Canton Police Department hosted its annual Shop with a Cop on Dec. 13 at the Canton Target store. Canton officers and police explorers shopped with children and purchased gifts for those who would not ordinarily be receiving much, if anything, this year. Officers helped more than 30 children and families in need. The department received donations from local businesses and organizations to support this cause. Officers also participated in “No Shave and Paint your Nails November and December,” which raised approximately $1,200 for this vital program. The Canton Police Department strongly believes in a “Mindset of Community, Attitude of Service and Heart of Protection.” Officers know their purpose is to make a difference in the lives of children and families in our city and the surrounding communities. The goal of Shop with a Cop is to not only financially help families but to build trust and a positive relationship to let them know they have someone to turn to when faced with a potential crisis. - Pacer Cordry, PIO/Community Outreach Officer
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Check the website for a full list of all medical and aesthetic services www.governorsmedicine.com. AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Readers' Choice 2019 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.
We have exciting news about Readers’ Choice 2019! We’ve added a dedicated nomination period, Feb. 1-28, followed by voting from April 1 to May 10.
Nominating a business is as simple as 1-2-3!
1. Starting Feb. 1, go to www.aroundcantonmagazine.com. 2. Click on the Readers' Choice nomination icon on the home page. 3. Find the proper category and nominate your favorite by typing in the business name. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. While most of us spend a fair amount of time in big-box retailers, we want to keep
2019
READERS’
CHOICE Award
the focus of Readers’ Choice on local small businesses. Our goal is to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit. 2. As you make your nominations, 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 nominating by giving as much information as possible, such as a street or community name. 3. Make nominations in as few or as many categories as you’d like. Stay tuned for nominations to open at 9 a.m. Feb. 1. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions; we're here to celebrate your favorite businesses. They make our community special - what a perfect way to thank them!
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Here's to a
Healthier You! A
s the years come and go, so do our resolutions to eat better, exercise more and embrace a healthier lifestyle. There’s no judgment here; we’ve all been through that cycle. However, it is a new year and a chance to start fresh! We hope this section - filled with inspirational stories, helpful advice, and opportunities to be active - will help you on your journey to better health. We want to be there for you through thick and thin - no pun intended. We’re with you on this journey. Be sure to let us know how you’re doing: email candi@aroundaboutmagazines. com. You may be among the inspirational, personal testimonies we share in the future.
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Stories that Inspire Weight loss is more mental than physical. BY ALEX BUTLER
I began my weight loss journey on Jan. 23, 2018, the day after my brother Mack left for Navy boot camp. My dad, who was also in the Navy, told me I wouldn’t recognize my brother when he returned, and that’s when I decided, “I’m going to meet him there.” When I started, I had no energy, no self-confidence and I would get out of breath just walking up a flight of stairs. At age 20, I knew this wasn’t how I wanted to live my life. I began following a low carb diet, learned to make healthy snack substitutions and even how to cook a little. I used Google to find recipes, like low carb bread, using cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes and a low carb version of pita chips. There are so many healthy food alternatives available, it definitely makes it easier. After six to seven months of just dieting, I started
adding some exercise to my routine. This was new to me because I had never wanted anything to do with exercise. Now, because I have more energy, I enjoy it and my self-confidence has skyrocketed. At Thanksgiving, I saw family members who I had not seen in a while. Some of them didn’t even recognize me. They were blown away with the change. It’s been hard, but it does get easier. I have found that weight loss is more mental than physical. So far, I have lost 135 pounds, and I have 10 to go to reach my goal weight. Then, I plan to follow in my dad’s and brother’s footsteps and join the Navy. I’ll be working on getting fit to pass the physical training test, and I hope to ship out in March. Now it’s my turn!
Getting healthy starts BY KURT JOHNSON
A combination of exercise and reduced caloric intake resulted in Kurt's 75-pound weight loss.
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
In August 2017, my wife Sheila and I were pleased with what we had accomplished since the great recession ended. It inspired thoughts of where we want to live and all the places we want to travel. But we just couldn't shake the experience we endured with my mother's passing a year earlier. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015 and had a long, hard fight. For us, it put into focus the need for peak health and agility when we enter into our senior years. You can plan financially for a long retirement with your kids and grandchildren, but if you aren't physically able, it will all be for naught. It was through the exploration of what our retirement could look like at 55 and beyond that inspired us to DECIDE to make a permanent change. Durng the course of 49 years, Sheila and I have lost 20 to 60 pounds 30-plus times, but never kept it off. It was always difficult. This time was different. We DECIDED that our routine would always include an hour a day of some form of exercise, five days a week. Additionally, to fast-track our weight loss, we reduced our calories to 1,400 per day and tracked our calories and exercise with the Fitbit app. We started off with casual strolls at Hobgood Park. After a couple of months, we needed to increase the intensity so we started walking our neighborhood (it's called
From 400 pounds to 200 in four years. BY LEE MARTIN
Alex (left) before his weigh loss journey, and (above) with his brother Mack (on the left) who was an inspiration for Alex to get healthier.
with a decision. Towne Lake Hills for good reason). I moved on to using the elliptical every day because it can be scaled up in intensity and there was never an excuse not to do it (the weather would never get in the way of my hour). Sheila does a blend of walking and Les Mills exercise routines in front of the television in our basement. This combination of exercise and caloric intake brought us quick results, which inspired us to keep going. Between August 2017 and May 2018, I had lost 75 pounds and Sheila had lost 30 pounds. We had set May 2018 as our primary goal date because we had planned a Mediterranean cruise of Europe, which involved a lot of walking and sightseeing. Having this to look forward to was very motivating and kept us focused. Since May 2018, we have maintained the weight loss. Because an hour of exercise is as essential as brushing our teeth and non-negotiable, we can “break” on the weekends and still maintain our new lower weight. We have recently backed off on the weekend breaks and we are aiming for additional losses. To anyone about to embark on this journey, my advice would be to not see this as a diet but as a redefinition of who you are. You can just DECIDE, “I'm a health conscious person and I behave like one.” When you believe it, your actions will support it and, in time, your body will reflect the changes. We are reminded daily of the benefits of this weight loss. Are you ready to DECIDE?
In 2015, my bathroom scale said, “ERR” because I was too heavy. The scale at my doctor’s office told the truth. My waist was 66 inches and my shirt size was 6X. Trying to ride with my kids at Universal Studios and the ride attendant says loudly, “It’s not my fault you’re too fat to fit in the seat.” I was on a long list of medications for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, etc. (all of which I no longer need). Doing even the simplest things such as standing up from a chair or walking through the store was painful and exhausting. I didn’t want a surgical solution. I decided to incrementally do a little more and a little better each day than I had done the day before. At first, that was five minutes on the elliptical machine (which took a lot out of me), then six the next day, and so on. In the course of 48 months, I VERY SLOWLY and steadily worked my way up to running 10Ks and 8-minute miles. It took consistent baby steps and patience. I figured out how many calories I was eating on an average day (5,000+) versus how many a man my size and age needed (3,600). Then I started tracking my daily calorie intake and eating only 3,500 per day. As I lost weight, I recalculated and adjusted frequently. Now I eat 2,000 to 2,400 calories per day depending on my activity level. One of my favorite things, six days per week, is a HIIT - High Intensity Interval Training - group class at a heart-rate based fitness studio in Towne Lake. At age 49, they’ve helped me push beyond what I could do on my own and accomplish things I never imagined. As a bonus, that’s where I met my fiancé, Theresa! Lee Martin is no longer on medication since his weight loss.
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
17
Mental and physical health are important to maintain. BY JESSICA TYRA
I am a 35-year-old single mother of four. I moved to Canton after leaving an abusive situation, and I was at my peak weight of 195. I was miserable, but I knew my children needed me to get my life together. I started running and walking by myself, but my heart rate was all over the place. I started having higher blood pressure at my checkups. I realized I wasn’t taking care of my mental health in a way I should. I was deployed in 2004 and again in 2007-08 for a total of 18 months. In 2008 I was wounded in Iraq and later diagnosed with PTSD. The years that followed gave me issues sleeping, problems setting a routine, and battling demons. I got myself into therapy quickly, and we worked through my issues so that, come 2017, I knew my mental game was right. Therapists told me that I needed to get out of the situation I was in because my deployment triggers were fixed, but my marriage was not healthy for me. You see, not everyone gets the help they need. It’s not a sign of weakness to get help. I decided I didn’t want to do anything medically and so I would sit in an office talking to someone two to five times a month. I moved a lot, as a military spouse when I got out in 2010, so I had to find multiple therapists. I also found the right “tribes” of people every time I moved. I absolutely love the tribe of people and coaches I have surrounding me. We all come from many different walks of life, and we do a one-hour workout each morning together, with random races on weekends, and we focus on our endurance, strength and power. I love that my tribe pushes me to achieve greatness. I wear a heart-rate monitor and, in the last year, my resting heart rate has gone down almost 40 beats per minute. My weight is down to 150 pounds, and I’m so happy!
Jessica's weight loss has made a dramatic difference in her life.
Managing diabetes is easy, consistency is hard BY DAN THRAILKILL
Dan says staying active is essential to managing diabetes. 18
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes on Jan. 13, 1988. I was unofficially diagnosed by my grandfather, a small-town general practice physician, over the phone. We had that diagnosis confirmed later that day after visiting my pediatrician with a blood sugar above 700+. I was quickly admitted to the hospital and began a lifetime of insulin administration and blood sugar checks. Later that same year, my pediatric endocrinologist encouraged my family to send me to Camp Adam Fisher (camp for kids with T1 diabetes in South Carolina). My parents were incredibly hesitant but went along with his suggestions. After celebrating my 30th Dia-Birthday in January 2018, I look back and credit Camp Adam Fisher with providing me with most of my self-diabetes management knowledge. If you have a child with diabetes, check out Camp Kudzu here in Georgia, and sign them up. As a young adult, I was always pretty active, but made many “young and stupid” decisions that were not conducive to good health. At the age of 25, I decided to join a gym and taught myself how to cook. Working out and eating properly have proven to be the two most important decisions of my adult diabetic life. As an experienced T1 and a new father, I know that my disease has to be my top priority. If I do not take care of myself, someone else will, and that’s not fair to anyone. I do not and will not allow myself to be a victim of my disease. Diabetes management in 2019 is much easier than it was in 1988. Modern technology provides diabetics many freedoms to manage their disease; however, it does not substitute for a good lifestyle. If you want to take better care of yourself for 2019, consider working on the following for your new year’s resolution: No 1. Test your blood sugar often; No 2. Take your meds as prescribed; No. 3 Eat right; No. 4. Exercise often; and No. 5. Listen to your healthcare providers. Do not become a victim of your disease and remember that diabetes management is easy, staying consistent is hard.
Women’s Weight Loss: Three Key Factors BY DR. KAWAMI CLAY, MD FACOG
Dr. Kawami Clay, an OB-GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, has lost 28 pounds in three months through a medical weight loss program, and is still dropping. When asked about her weight loss success, she naturally names the big two changes she’s made: diet and exercise. But, the physician also mentions three key factors that make weight loss possible for women – comfort, education and personal relationships.
Comfort
“As a woman trying something new, like a medically supervised weight loss plan, you’ll want to remove as many barriers for yourself as possible. Choose a location convenient for your lifestyle. Make sure the program is reputable. It also helps to know someone who has already had success there. “Everybody wants to feel comfortable. I love being able to recommend my weight loss program. “The medical work-up before getting started with a medical weight loss program is essential. A medical evaluation and labs confirm that you are healthy and a good candidate — that you meet the criteria for the program you are considering. “As an OB-GYN, I take a good look at the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone test) — thyroid screening. Thyroid problems are common, and can definitely have an effect on weight gain for women.”
Education
“There is so much information out there now, it’s confusing. People just give up. It’s not just about eating less. Sometimes, we need help looking at basic facts — like how many calories something has, and what’s the nutritional value. When you’ve failed too many times, it can be overwhelming to sort through that on your own. We’re afraid to find out how many calories are in our favorite foods — or even what a regular serving size looks like.”
Personal Relationships
“Especially for women, it can be the personal relationship that makes a life change possible. This is why there are weekly visits for most weight loss programs. You get a chance to sit down with a friendly face and talk about problems you might be running into, and get some help. You can go over lifestyle, work schedule, exercise … and then come up with a real plan.” Clay is happy with her weight loss, and shares the benefits. “I get a Lipo B12 shot every week — and I have a lot more energy.” She smiles. “But, mostly, I’m just excited to fit back into the clothes in my closet!”
Dr. Clay has practiced medicine for 11 years, is boardcertified in obstetrics and gynecology, and is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology.
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Butternut Squash and Spinach Turkey Stew Serves 6 • • • • • • • • • • • • •
1 medium butternut squash, diced 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 pound ground turkey 1 cup sweet onion, chopped 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce 2 cups spinach leaves, chopped 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
Directions
Preheat oven to 425. Combine squash, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice, and salt until well coated. Place in a single layer on baking sheet; bake 20 minutes, or until tender. Heat large stock pot on medium. Pour 2 tablespoons olive oil in pot with onions and garlic, cook for 2 minutes. Add turkey, cook until no pink shows. Add broth, remaining 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice, turmeric, coriander and hot sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes. Add cooked squash, chopped spinach and cilantro, simmer additional 3-5 minutes. Serve.
Sausage, Egg and Spinach Muffins Makes 12 muffins • • • • • • • •
10 ounces chicken Italian sausage links, cooked 5 eggs 2 cups spinach 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons Italian seasonings 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove casings from sausage, place in a skillet on medium heat and cook until no pink shows. In a blender, pulse remaining ingredients until mixed, then place in a bowl. Add cooked sausage to egg mixture. Line muffin pan, fill cups 3/4 full and bake 25-30 minutes. 20
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Top 5 Nutrition Tips for a Healthy New You BY ANDREA MATHIS
Eat “real” food. There are dozens of diet/meal plans out there, and it can be very confusing trying to pick the right one for you. Let me make this really simple by asking this question: What do all these diet plans have in common? They all teach you to stop eating highly processed pre-packaged foods and encourage eating “real” food. What is real food? Anything you can pick off a tree, a bush or shrub, dig out of the ground, kill with your bare hands, or fish out of the ocean. If the food you choose is in one of these categories, and your body doesn’t have a nasty reaction to it, then eat it. Be aware. Pay attention to how food makes you feel when you eat it. Bloating, gas and heartburn are not normal ways for your body to react to food. If you have this type of reaction to a food (even a healthy food) STOP eating it. Track your food. Notice I didn’t say track your calories. While calories can matter if your goal is weight loss, what is most important is to track if you are eating nutrient-dense food for health benefits and satiety. You can stay under calories eating a bunch of junk food, but your body, mind and soul will suffer from fatigue, hunger and more if you are not eating food with nutritional value. MyFitness Pal is a great app for tracking food. Pay attention to the macronutrient goals (carbs, fat, protein) in addition to the sugar and sodium contents. Read ingredient labels. Most people know how to read the nutrition facts, which can provide you with some information, but not the most pertinent information, which is ... am I eating food? The ingredients determine if you are eating real food or not. Learn more about the ingredients you are putting in your body by using the Fooducate app. Create healthy environments. There are many hidden triggers all around us that will sabotage healthy eating habits, so create environments at home and work that will set you up for success. It is much easier to change your environment than your mind. Suggestions
• Remove or place tempting foods in hard-to-reach spots and put healthier options at eye level in the pantry or refrigerator. • Moving from a 12-inch to a 10-inch dinner plate leads people to serve and eat 22 percent less. • Do not eat directly from the package. Serve yourself a portion and put the package away. • In restaurants, choose half portions, or ask for the to-go box ahead of your meal, then portion half to take home with you.
Health coach Andrea Mathis will be hosting a free informational fourpart series, “Eat Right for Your Health,” at The BridgeMill Athletic Club at 7 p.m. Jan. 22. For more information, call 770-324-3175.
Fitness in the New Year The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency has a variety of fitness classes available for all ages, at a nominal fee. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.
Brain Health Fitness by Ageless Grace
9:30 a.m. Wednesdays. $25. Ageless Grace is perfect for anyone wanting to stay cognitively fit and vibrant. Exercises are performed seated, stimulate five primary functions of the brain, and focus on physical skills promoting the ability to respond, react and recover.
Fit4Mom
9:30-10:30 a.m. daily. $15 drop-in fee or $65 monthly Fit4Mom is the country’s largest fitness program for moms offering pre- and post-natal fitness classes for every stage of motherhood. Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms can do with their kids. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using tubing, the stroller, and the environment. Stroller Barre is a unique blend of ballet, Pilates, barre, yoga and stroller-based exercises designed to help mom build strength and muscle tone, and improve posture. The fun4baby includes weekly playdates, monthly music class, arts and crafts, and more. Go to Woodstock.fit4mom.com to register for your free class.
Small Group Personal Training
Monthly sessions meet Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. $100 for four-week month, $125 five-week month. Small Group Personal Training is a personalized training experience where you meet with your certified trainer in a fun and energetic semi-private setting. Meet with your trainer for a fitness physical taking into consideration any current medical conditions, discuss goals, and evaluate your fitness level. Each training session is specifically designed for each group and based on fitness level of each participant. Enjoy a different functional training workout each session, incorporating flexibility, core, balance, stabilization, fall prevention, strength and power. You will increase health and longevity and have more energy to better enjoy activities, travel and your family.
SporTykes
10:15-11 a.m. Feb. 25-May 20, 11:15-noon Wednesdays, or 11-11:45 a.m. Thursdays. For ages 3-4. $120. Children are introduced to basic fundamental skills for soccer, T-ball, football and basketball in a fun atmosphere. SporTykes is not a parent participation class.
Tai Chi
Gentle Joints (low impact)
Monthly classes meet 8:30-9:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. $30 per month. Gentle Joints is a low impact aerobics and strength training class designed specifically for mature adults and individuals with joint challenges. Class format will vary among instructors. The class may include the use of hand weights, stability balls, and various resistance equipment such as bands, Pilates’ circles, and mini-balls. The class is geared toward issues relevant to this age group such as balance, flexibility, strength, posture, cardiopulmonary fitness, and exercises to target bone density, mobility and joint issues.
Classes meet 9:45-10:40 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Beginner sessions Jan. 7-March 4, March 11-April 29. Intermediate sessions Jan. 9-Feb. 27, Jan. 11-March 1, March 13-May 1, March 15-May 3. $40 for 8 week session. Tai Chi for Health is designed to improve the quality of life of people with arthritis and other chronic conditions, improve balance and mobility, and prevent falls. This unique teaching method makes it easy and fun to learn. This program may be done seated or standing. It is an enjoyable exercise that improves all aspects of health. Tai Chi improves muscular strength, flexibility and fitness, with the additional benefits of improved relaxation, balance, posture, immunity and reduced stress. Dr. Paul Lam’s Tai Chi for Arthritis is endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Arthritis Foundation, Administration on Aging, and the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Services.
Tiny Tykes
9:30-10 a.m. Feb. 25-May 20, 9:30-10 a.m. Wednesdays, or 10:15-10:45 a.m. Thursdays. For age 2. $120. Children learn basic coordination skills associated with soccer, T-ball, football and basketball in a fun and colorful atmosphere. Tiny Tykes is not a parent participation class.
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Logan spent time with local college students, helping them relax between classes. You can tell by Logan’s smile below how much he enjoys therapy visits.
Therapy in the Form of a Four-legged Friend BY JACKIE LOUDIN
I didn’t realize how much stress college students are under these days until I recently spent time at Kennesaw State University. Regular classes were ending and finals were beginning. I was there with my certified therapy dog, Logan, to help students de-stress and hopefully forget about the pressures of school, if only for a little while. As we were leaving, a group of students was gathered in the lobby. One young lady asked if we were leaving, and seemed upset that she had missed her opportunity to visit with Logan. As we approached her, she knelt on the floor and began to cry. Through her sobs, I heard her say, “No one understands how stressful it is. It’s so hard.” Logan immediately went to her, and as she buried her face in his neck and hugged him tightly, I became keenly aware that people of all ages and walks of life are struggling. Stress has been linked to significant health issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal disorders, headaches and depression, to name a few. Obviously, in order to be our best − physically, mentally and emotionally − we need to manage the stress in our lives. There is plenty of advice available on how to reduce and manage stress levels: get plenty of exercise, get a good night’s sleep, avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine, pray or meditate. These are all good tips, but what if lowering stress and anxiety was as simple as petting a dog? 22
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Studies reveal spending time with a pet or therapy animal can increase levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease production of the stress hormone cortisol. In fact, a 2016 survey revealed a strong link between pet ownership and the health benefits. (habri.org/2016-pet-owners-survey) It’s what the Anxiety and Depression Association of America calls “the pet effect.” The reality is not everyone can own a pet. That’s where therapy dogs come into the picture. It’s important to understand a therapy dog is not a service animal, and does not enjoy the same legal rights and privileges as a service dog, which has been trained to provide specific disability-related tasks for its owner. A therapy dog volunteers, with its owner, to provide comfort, affection and love during visits to places such as schools, businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Therapy dogs must be patient, loving and even-tempered. Logan displayed these traits at an early age, and we took a beginner’s dog obedience class to start our journey toward becoming a therapy dog team. He has since received his Canine Good Citizenship certificate, and passed his test to become a certified therapy dog. He loves putting on his vest and going to “work.” You can almost see a change in his body language when he knows we are headed out for a therapy visit. Which tells me, he probably enjoys the visits as much as the people we go see. For more information about therapy dogs and to see how your organization can benefit from a visit, go to www.therapydogs. com. Make sure to follow Logan’s adventures on his Facebook and Instagram accounts at Logan the Therapy Dog.
Work-Life Balance: Change Focus to Harmony BY ASHLEY VELEZ
In the past, work was a location. People drove to work, clocked in and out, and when they left the office, they didn’t return to their work until the following morning. Trying to maintain a healthy work/ life balance in a tech-overloaded world, where everything is connected, has much of the workforce looking for healthy ways to unplug and rebalance their personal and professional lives. Case in point: According to Gallup’s State of the American Workplace 2017 survey, 53 percent of employees say a role that allows them to have greater work-life balance and better personal well-being is “very important” to them. However, for tech giant and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, work-life balance shouldn’t be the goal: work-life harmony should be. Bezos has said he stresses this idea to both young employees and senior executives at Amazon. For him, work-life balance implies a strict trade-off, instead of a more holistic relationship between work and life outside the office. Bezos’ thoughts on the transition away from the traditional idea of work/life balance into a need for work/life integration continues as millennials push for integration over balance, along with an upward trend in flexible work schedules and telecommuting options. That said, work/life integration should be an important issue for all generations of the workforce, not just millennials. Here are some ways to achieve work/ life integration.
Learn to say “no.”
There’s nothing wrong with respectfully declining invitations that overextend you. Real people can’t devote 100 percent to everything they do. (You aren’t a superhero, after all.) When you stop taking on things out of guilt, you’ll have more time to focus on activities that matter.
Set tech blocks.
Create blocks of time when your home must remain tech-free to allow focus on family or friends. As an added way to keep yourself accountable, mention this time block to your coworkers and manager.
Learn employer's policies.
Make sure you’re clear on your company’s policies on flextime and working from home. If there aren’t any current policies in place, ask. You may be able to negotiate new policies.
Telecommute.
Telecommuting, even a few times a week, can help free up valuable
hours. You'll be able to focus on work for long stretches at a time and use the extra hours to meet personal responsibilities.
Communicate.
If you’re unable to be available during certain hours of the day due to family responsibilities, let your manager and colleagues know, and get their full support.
Create personal time.
Give yourself permission to take time to appreciate the little things. If you don’t allow yourself to have pockets of personal time, you face potential burnout and won’t be able to appreciate other parts of your life.
Ashley Velez is the social media director for YPOW and is a digital marketing expert and proud resident of Woodstock, where she lives with her husband Oscar and their two sons. http://atlantaseo.pro.
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Silver Roamers For a $24 yearly fee, the Silver Roamers can attend monthly gatherings and discuss upcoming events. Members get discounts on trips and events, and can win prizes through the Roamers Mileage Club. Nonmembers can take part in day and overnight excursions, but the cost is a little more. Most trips are handicap-accessible. Monthly meetings are held at 11 a.m. on the first Mondays at the recreation center community room. Upcoming dates are Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 4, April 8 and May 6. Contact Frankie Sanders at fsanders@cherokeega.com.
Never Roam Alone Water Club Wednesdays
Time: 2-3 p.m. Cost: Free, members only Location: Cherokee County Aquatic Center Never Roam Alone Water Club is designed for seniors to get together to stay active, healthy, socialize and have fun. Meet at the Cherokee Aquatic Center and walk in the recreation pool. Please check in at the front desk before entering the pool.
Adult Coloring Mondays
Time: Noon Location: Recreation Center, Community Room Cost: $5 members/$10 nonmembers Cost includes coloring books, colored pencils and lunch! Or bring your own coloring books and pencils.
The Fox Theatre Tour/The Varsity Jan. 17
Time: 9 a.m. Boys and Girls Club, 9:30 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $35 members/$45 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission, guided tour and food. *Handicap-accessible*
William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum Jan. 31
Time: 8 a.m. Boys and Girls Clubs, 8:30 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $45 members/$55 nonmembers Cost includes admission, tour and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Center for Puppetry Arts Feb. 7
Time: 8 a.m. Boys and Girls Club, 8:30 a.m Recreation Center Cost: $40 members/$50 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, guided tour and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Cherokee Recreation and Parks 7545 Main St., Woodstock 770-924-7768 • www.crpa.net
Bees Knees Cooking Class March 6
Time: 10:30 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $25 members/$35 nonmembers Cost includes cooking class and food.
Decatur Square Tour with Jim Howe/ Sweet Melissa March 14
Time: 8:30 a.m. Boys and Girls Club, 9 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $40 members/$50 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission, tour and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Atlanta Cyclorama/Souper Jenny March 28
Time: 8 a.m. Boys and Girls, 8:30 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $25 members/$35 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission and a self-guided tour. Lunch on your own.*Handicap-accessible*
Gibbs Garden/Arbor CafĂŠ April 11
Time: 8:45 a.m., 9:15 a.m. Recreation Center Cost: $50 members/$60 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission, self-guided tour, TRAM ride and food. *Handicap-accessible*
Louisville, Kentucky April 14-18
Register Feb. 4, Nonrefundable $150 deposit due Feb. 4, Final Payment due April 1
Georgia National Cemetery April 25
Time: 9 a.m. Recreation Center, 9:30 a.m. Boys and Girls Club Cost: Free members/$10 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, guided tour, film and lunch on your own. *Handicap-accessible*
Appreciation Luncheon May 8
Time: Noon, Union Hill Cost: Free members/$10 nonmembers Cost includes Bingo and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Alpaca Farm Tours/Thrashers May 16
Time: 8:30 a.m. Recreation Center, 9 a.m. Boys and Girls Club Cost: $45 members/$55 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, guided tour and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Mystery
Mystery
Cost: $60 members/$70 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission, tour and lunch. *Handicap-accessible*
Cost: $60 members/$70 nonmembers Cost includes transportation, admission, tour and lunch. *Handicap- accessible*.
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What to Do When a Loved One Passes BY JOSHUA NELSON
Losing a loved one always is devastating, whether they are 29 or 92; it can shake a family to its core. When a senior in their 90s passes under hospice care, the family often knows what to do. Plans have been made to make the process and the immediate aftermath a peaceful and seamless transition. Many family members can confide in their nurse or social worker about their fears, and their questions about how to alleviate them, and focus on being with their loved one, knowing what the future holds. If you lose a loved one suddenly, it’s important that you do the right things in the right order. Here is a helpful list and time frame of when things need to be done when you lose a loved one.
Immediately
• Get a legal pronouncement of death. If the individual dies in a hospital or hospice, the medical personnel will take the lead on what the next steps are, although they will want to know which funeral home should be called at the appropriate time. If the individual dies at home, call the paramedics or the police, so that the proper pronouncement of death can be made. • If the decedent (person who dies) has children or pets, immediate arrangements need to be made for their care. If children are involved, contact a grief therapist immediately, potentially even prior to disclosing the death to the child. • Notify close family and friends. (Ask some to contact others.) • Call the person’s employer, if he or she was working. Request information about benefits and any pay due. Ask if there was a life insurance policy through the company.
Within a few days
• Arrange for funeral and burial, or cremation. Search the person’s documents to find out whether there was a prepaid burial plan. Ask a friend or family member to go with you to the funeral home. Prepare an obituary. • Ask a friend or relative to keep an eye on the person’s home, collect mail, throw food out, and water plants.
• Secure assets so tangible property doesn’t start disappearing. • If the person was in the military, or belonged to a fraternal or religious group, contact that organization. It may have burial benefits or conduct funeral services.
Up to 60 days after death
• Obtain death certificates (usually from the funeral home). Get multiple copies; you’ll need them for financial institutions, government agencies and insurers. • Determine how to transfer assets to heirs. If there was a will, it needs to be probated by taking the will to the appropriate probate court to have it accepted for probate, after speaking with an attorney or determining estate status.
Who to contact
• A trust and estates attorney, to learn how to transfer assets and assist with probate issues. • The police, to have them periodically check the deceased’s house, if vacant. • An accountant or tax preparer, to find out if an estate-tax return or final income-tax return should be filed. • The person’s investment adviser, for information on holdings. • The bank, to find accounts and any safe deposit box. • Life insurance agent, to get claim forms. • Social Security (800-772-1213; socialsecurity.gov) and other agencies from which the deceased received benefits, such as Veterans Affairs (800-827-1000; va.gov), to stop payments and ask about applicable survivor benefits. • Agency providing pension services, to stop monthly check and get claim forms. • Utility companies, to change or stop service, and the postal service, to stop or forward mail.
Joshua Nelson is an elder care law attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 900, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA, 30189. www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.
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Tax Considerations for Retirees DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
The federal government offers some major tax breaks for older Americans. Some of these perks deserve more publicity than they receive.
If you are 65 or older, you can add $1,300 to your standard deduction.
Make that $1,600 if you are unmarried. Thanks to the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the 2018 standard deduction for an individual taxpayer, at least 65 years of age, is a whopping $13,600, more than double what it was in 2017. (If you are someone else’s dependent, your standard deduction is much less.)1
You may be able to write off some medical costs.
This year, the Internal Revenue Service will let you deduct qualifying medical expenses once they exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. In 2019, the threshold will return to 10 percent of AGI, unless Congress acts to preserve the 7.5 percent baseline. The IRS list of eligible expenses is long. Beyond out-of-pocket costs paid to doctors and other health care professionals, it also includes things like longterm care insurance premiums, travel costs linked to medical appointments, and payments for durable medical equipment, such as dentures and hearing aids.2
Are you thinking about selling your home?
Many retirees consider this. If you have lived in your current residence for at least two of the five years preceding a sale, you can exclude as much as $250,000 in gains from federal taxation (a married couple can shield up to $500,000). These limits, established in 1997, never have been indexed to inflation. The Department of the Treasury has been studying whether it has the power to adjust them. If modified for inflation, they would approach $400,000 for singles and $800,000 for married couples.3,4
Low-income seniors may qualify for the credit for the elderly or disabled.
This incentive, intended for people 65 and older (and younger people who have retired due to permanent and total disability), can be as much as $7,500, based on your filing status. You must have very low AGI and nontaxable income to claim it, though. It basically is designed for those living wholly or mostly on Social Security benefits.5
Affluent IRA owners may want to make a charitable IRA gift.
If you are well off and have a large traditional IRA, you may not need your yearly required minimum distribution (RMD) for living expenses. If you are 70½ or older, you have an option: you can make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) with IRA assets. You can donate up to $100,000 of IRA assets to a qualified charity in a single year this way, and the amount donated counts toward your annual RMD. (A married couple gets to donate up to $200,000 per year.) Even more importantly, the amount of the QCD is excluded from your taxable income for the year of the donation.6 26
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Some states also give seniors tax breaks.
For example, the following 11 states do not tax federal, state or local pension income: Alabama, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New York and Pennsylvania. Twenty-eight states (and the District of Columbia) refrain from taxing Social Security income.7
Unfortunately, your Social Security benefits could be partly or fully taxable.
They could be taxed at both the federal and state level, depending on how much you earn and where you happen to live. Whether you feel this is reasonable or not, you may have the potential to claim some of the tax breaks mentioned above as you pursue the goal of tax efficiency.5,7. 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 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 - fool.com/taxes/2018/04/15/2018-standard-deduction-howmuch-it-is-and-why-you.aspx [4/15/18] 2 - aarp.org/money/taxes/info-2018/medical-deductions-irs-fd.html [1/12/18] 3 - loans.usnews.com/what-are-the-tax-benefits-of-buying-a-house [10/17/18] 4 - cnbc.com/2018/08/02/some-home-sellers-would-see-hugesavings-under-treasury-tax-cut-plan.html [8/2/18] 5 - fool.com/taxes/2017/12/31/living-on-social-security-heres-atax-credit-just.aspx [12/31/17] 6 - tinyurl.com/y8slf8et [1/3/18] 7 - thebalance.com/state-income-taxes-in-retirement-3193297 ml [8/15/18]
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.
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Rob’s Rescues This dog's name is Daisy. She is 7 years old, a small dog, thin and weighs 13 pounds. She is a Dachshund, and is tan and white. Daisy walks well on a leash. She was brought to the shelter as a stray in the beginning of November. This dog loves meeting new people and she is very sweet. This cat's name is Leia. She is a big cat, and has a sister named Muffin in here as well. She and her sister were owner surrendered. They are both very sweet and kind cats. Leia is pretty inquisitive and liked my bag. Leia is 3 years old and Muffin is 6 years old.
If anyone wants to collect pet food or toys for animals in need in the area, please get a Rob's Rescues bin. Recently, Starbucks at Canton Marketplace and Starbucks on Sixes Road held pet food drives for animals in need. There is always a Rob's Rescues pet food collection bin at Rebound Physical Therapy (980 Woodstock Parkway, Suite 200, Woodstock). If anyone wants to do a pet food collection for their birthday let me know. Charlie Dobbs had a birthday party, and her friends brought a lot of things. Some of the things from the bin went to Two Tailz Rescue and some went to the W-Underdogs. See my interviews with Freedom Flightz who are part of Two Tailz Rescue (November 2018) and the W-Underdogs (August 2018) in the archives at AroundCantonMagazine.com, and on my website www.robsrescues.com. Right, Charlie Dobbs with her Rob's Rescues birthday bin. Bottom left, Starbucks Canton Marketplace team: Scott Gill, Deanna Higgins, Chalet Fosgate, Linda Bruce, Maria Luna and Gail Alexander. Bottom right, Rob and Joe Kafati of Rebound Physical Therapy.
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.
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Don’t Worry, Be Informed BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY
Are you worried about what your pets might be ingesting? Here are two things pet owners should know about.
Xylitol
The words sugar-free can have deadly consequences for pets. Many sugar-free candies and cooking ingredients contain xylitol. While beneficial for people, especially those trying to control their blood sugar, xylitol can be deadly to dogs. Xylitol is a natural sugar-free sweetener found in some chewing gums, candies, puddings, vitamins, medications, toothpastes and some peanut butters. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs, while its effects largely still are unknown in cats. The toxic effects of xylitol include a rapid plummeting of blood sugar levels, and liver failure, which can lead to death. Blood sugar is important for energy, cell health and body function. When a dog ingests xylitol, its blood sugar drops to extremely low levels in a matter of minutes to hours. The signs of low blood sugar include progressive weakness, collapse and even seizures. While that is happening, the xylitol is causing liver failure, which can result in vomiting and lack of appetite. Your pet’s blood can lose the ability to clot, which leads to internal bleeding and, ultimately, death. If your dog eats anything containing xylitol, the best plan is to take your pet to your veterinarian immediately. The best course
of action is to induce vomiting. Act fast, because once their body absorbs the chemical, it might be too late.
Grain-free food
New studies are pointing toward grain-free pet diets as being harmful. Grains in pet diets have been implicated falsely in food allergies for dogs. Grain allergies are extremely rare, and many pet food companies are riding the craze of low-carb, gluten-free human nutrition. While these diets are being studied, there is new evidence that grain-free diets can cause heart disease in dogs. While the exact cause is unknown, many grain-free diets are supplemented with legumes, such as lentils, peas and beans. There is some thought that these diets have low levels of taurine, which is an amino acid − a building block of protein. There has been a link between grain-free diets and a certain type of heart disease that affects the heart muscle, called dilated cardiomyopathy. While more information needs to be discovered, the current recommendation is to feed your pet a well-balanced diet. If you have additional questions or concerns about your pet’s diet, contact your local veterinarian.
Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry has been an associate veterinarian of the BridgeMill Animal Hospital Team since 2015.
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Senior Sense
Impulsive Joy BY DELIA HALVERSON
As we leave the old year and turn to the new, we think of all the things we hoped to accomplish during 2018. I had hoped to finish a novel and my memoirs. I did get a children’s picture book written, but have yet to investigate a publisher. These still sit on my computer desktop! Oh, well, maybe this year. I just hope I get them done before I die! Now we begin a new year with even more plans to fill the 365 days. With so many activities pressuring us for our time, the impulsive joy of living usually falls by the wayside. My grandparents’ circle was small, allowing them to implement any impulse from their heart, and they had many. They found time to offer tokens of concern. Granddad helped a neighbor repair a fence; grandma baked a cake for the old man down the road or kept the children of a sick friend. My parents had problems keeping up with all of their impulses of loving and giving. When my mother died, we counted 40 persons (none of blood relation) who lived in their home at one time or another. In one generation, their world expanded to include not only neighbors, but friends from other states and countries. Now, in our generation, the life circle has increased. We feel so overwhelmed with our impulses that we shove them under the rug. We want to do too many things. There’s a new family in the neighborhood to meet, and a friend to share an idea with. The hospital and numerous charities need volunteers. A dinner taken to the mother of a new baby would show love. Parents have to play taxi driver for their children, driving them to obligations at school or outside activities. We grandparents want to be with our children and grandchildren every chance we can, and to be a part of our grandchildren’s sports or other events. There are many people we enjoy being with. Sometimes we feel that we might drown in a sea of friendships and relatives. Yet, in a new year of structured activities, we must not let go of the joy of impulsive sharing with others. The impulse of the moment gives such sharing even more meaning. The year lies ahead of us. We can turn it into a year of impulsive joy, a by-product of working toward the happiness of someone else, or we can sweep it all under the rug. Let’s give joyful impulsiveness a try!
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.
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AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce
3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS 1. Contour Roofing, Canton 678-880-4414 www.contourroofing.com 2. Aspire Dance Arts 15 Laurel Canyon Village Circle Suite 124, Canton 770-213-4130
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3. Big Door Vineyards 125 Clearwater Trail, White 844-692-4436
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EVENT CALENDAR Jan. 24
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 30114. Featuring guest speaker Trudy Cathy White, a native Georgian and daughter of the late Jeannette and S. Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A. She is a speaker, author, dedicated wife, mother of four and grandmother of 15. Single ticket: $70. Reserved tables are available for groups of eight ($560). For more details, visit www.cherokeechamber.com.
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Main independent living entry and apartments
Independent living terrace, gardens and apartments
The Arbor at BridgeMill
Senior living community offers tailor-made, luxury lifestyle for each resident. The focus at The Arbor at BridgeMill, a 15-acre senior community tucked away behind Starbucks on Sixes Road, is singular: offer an active and luxurious lifestyle so residents remain active, engaged and fulfilled. Whether it’s independent living, assisted living or memory care, The Arbor at BridgeMill honors individuality and celebrates each person’s unique life through deep connections with the residents and their families. “We create delightful surprises and meaningful moments within a safe and caring community,” Executive Director Jerry Rick said. The community’s staff believes retirement never should mean retreat. Each resident’s desires are honored and supported, whether they want to fill their time with adventure or poolside relaxation, or somewhere in between. “We want more than just bingo and a bouncing ball. We go above and beyond to offer the best quality of life for each resident,” Rick said. “Our engaged living calendars are filled daily with options
their loved one. Another safety measure requires that each independent living resident push a button once a day, which sends a notice to the concierge that the person has checked in and is OK. The Arbor at BridgeMill is the largest community within the Atlanta-based Arbor Co., which has built 40 communities in 11 states since the company Stand-alone cottage began in 1988. Team members are trained and independently from our six areas for continued growth: certified before their first day of work. art and education, deep connections, In addition, each team member — from health and wellness, purposeful living, the CEO and company president to the recreation and leisure, and spiritual dishwashers and housekeepers — goes journey. We also utilize programs to through intense training on memory make sure our families know what their care. The Evergreen neighborhood for loved ones have been involved with at memory care residents is designed the community.” specifically with their challenges in mind. The residential choices include 26 “Here, you will enjoy a truly different stand-alone cottages, 110 independent lifestyle of memorable new experiences suites, 54 assisted living apartments and a refreshing sense of freedom,” Rick and 16 memory care apartments, each said. “Like any five-star resort, a highly designed to feel as much like resort trained staff is on hand to attend to your accommodations as they feel like home. every need. We come to work each day A 24-hour concierge service features to bring joy and delight to the residents a staff member who is a point of contact for the residents and family members, we serve, and our passion and pride is who may be having difficulty reaching apparent in everything we do.”
Independent living apartment interior
700 Freedom Blvd Canton, GA 30114
770-691-0022
www.arborbridgemill.com
www.facebook.com/arborbridgemill 32
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AMENITIES AT THE ARBOR AT BRIDGEMILL • Upscale, restaurant-style dining, featuring chefprepared meals catered to residents’ individual tastes and dietary needs. • Comfortable living rooms. • On-site wellness center equipped with the latest in fitness equipment. Indoor saltwater pool
• Beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and gardens.
Fitness center
• Indoor and outdoor saltwater swimming pools. • Outdoor grilling area, fire pit and fountain for residents and their families to enjoy. • On-site salon. • Game room, computer lounge and library. • Movie theater room. Restaurant-style dining
Nail and hair salon
TESTIMONIALS Brooke Wall, director of sales
“The Arbor Family is truly unique. We are collectively a beautiful array of people full of different personalities, talents, and gifts. Each one of our residents and team members together make The Arbor Family fantastic, and just a joy to be a part of each and every day.”
Fred & Rose C.
“The Arbor at Bridgemill is a relaxing fun place to live. It is a group of loving people in cottages and apartments. There is always someone to talk with or if you like, places to sit and read. The staff is always ready to spend time with you or answer any questions you may have. We have people from all over the states. It is a clean lovely place and we love calling it home.”
Roz S.
“When it opened, I was in the first group of residents to move in and I can ensure you that you will love The Arbor as much as I do. The staff is absolutely the best and they do so much to make us happy. Jerry is in charge and he will tell you we are all family and that is the way we feel. There is more to tell you and we would like you to come in for a tour so you can see what goes on. You will be very pleased.” Private dining room with wine wall
Community living room
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Super Bowl
Get Close to the Big Game The big game is coming to Atlanta! That’s right, Super Bowl LIII will be Feb. 3 in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. For just the third time in history, Atlanta will play host to the country’s largest sporting event, so you don’t want to miss it. But, don’t worry, if you can’t afford the high-dollar tickets to the game, we’ve got you covered with all the ways you still can be close to the action.
Super Bowl LIVE Presented by Verizon, this free six-day fan festival takes place at Centennial Olympic Park leading up to game day. The fan-fest event will begin Jan. 26 and run through Feb. 2. Atlanta-based, Grammy award-winning producer Jermaine Dupri was named the event’s music producer. He was charged with securing musical artists and producing the concerts. Dupri is the founder and CEO of So So Def Records, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Super Bowl LIVE will be open to the public the following days and times.
Jan. 26: 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Jan. 27: Noon-7 p.m., Jan. 28 4-8 p.m., Jan. 29-30: Closed, Jan. 31: 4-10 p.m., Feb. 1: Noon-10 p.m., Feb. 2: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Details on musical artists were not available at press time. www.ATLSuperBowl53.com. 34
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Bud Light Super Bowl Music Festival The first Bud Light Super Bowl Music Festival kicks off Jan. 31 as part of the EA Sports Bowl. The music fest will run through Feb. 2 at State Farm Arena, home of the Atlanta Hawks. Thursday’s lineup is the most packed. It headlines Ludacris and Migos and includes a DJ set from Lil Jon. The Super Friday set features Aerosmith and Post Malone. On Super Bowl eve, Bruno Mars and Cardi B are set to perform. Tickets are on sale now. www.SuperBowlMusicFest.com.
Celebrity Flag Football Game Alongside Celebrity Sweat, the Atlanta Braves will host the 19th annual Celebrity Flag Football Challenge Feb. 2 at SunTrust Park. Former Atlanta Falcon Michael Vick will square off against last year’s winning quarterback, Doug Flutie. Teams will consist of pro athletes, celebrities and musicians. The honorary captains for the event are Ron “Jaws” Jaworski, Michael Irvin, Andre Reed and Brian Jordan. More than 20 celebrities are scheduled to participate. The pregame show will feature marching bands and cheerleaders from Atlanta Public Schools. There also will be a military scrimmage prior to kickoff, where members of the armed forces will take on the professionals. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster. https://csweat.com.
CHEROKEE IS ON STANDBY The Federal Aviation Administration projects 1,100 aircraft parking spaces are needed for the Super Bowl. Among all airports within 90 miles of Atlanta, there are 900 available, with 200 in Cobb (the most of any airport in metro Atlanta).
Hey Canton,
You Can Join!
LIVE WORK WORSHIP PLAY
Vice Chairman of the Cherokee County Regional Airport, John Marinko, said the Ball Ground facility is in a holding pattern, but is ready and on standby for additional air traffic the Super Bowl may bring its way. The airport’s 5,001-foot runway can accommodate medium-sized and corporate jets and is conveniently located near I-575, providing easy access to I-75 south for travelers headed to Atlanta. Depending on traffic, the trip typically takes 45-50 minutes. Rental cars are available, and the airport’s lobby is equipped with HDTV and free wireless internet. Cherokee County Regional Airport (Code: CNI) 1800 Airport Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107 678-454-2090 PHOTO FROM MEDIA GALLERY@MERCEDESBENZSTADIUM.COM
“Off the Wall” Display As part of the Legacy 53 initiative, 10 artists were commissioned to do 30 large-scale murals around downtown Atlanta. “Off the Wall: Atlanta’s Civil Rights & Social Justice Journey” shines a spotlight on Atlanta’s role in civil rights, human rights and social justice movements. The 30 murals will be installed in the neighborhoods bordering Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in addition to other areas of downtown. The murals will go up before Super Bowl LIII and will remain as part of the city’s permanent public art collection. www.AtlSuperBowl53.com.
College Football Hall of Fame Fan Experience A great alternative to experiencing the game you love during Super Bowl weekend, the College Football Hall of Fame features historic and contemporary memorabilia, children’s activities, interactive multimedia displays, a theater featuring a high-definition film, and activity spaces. In addition to the exhibits on display, the hall has a 45-yard indoor football field where fans can test their abilities kicking field goals, throwing like a quarterback and taking on the obstacle course, all part of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Skill Zone. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sundays–Fridays and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays. www.cfbhall.com.
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Towne Lake 3048 Eagle Drive
Learn More At: www.CUofGA.org | 678-486-1111
#DoYouCU AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Prepping for the
BIG GAME
Even though Super Bowl LIII will be played at the home of the Atlanta Falcons, not everyone can attend the local event. According to seatgeek.com, the average cost of a ticket to the big game is between $2,500 and $3,000. If you’re like us, you’ll be watching from your favorite couch or recliner. That means you can enjoy your favorite football foods and beverages. Whether you’re attending a big party with friends or staying home to view the most watched yearly television show in America, you can try one (or all) of our recipes for the final game of the season.
Little Lemon Drops Patty Ponder, President
• 1 box lemon cake mix • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix • 4 large eggs • 1 1/4 cups sour cream • 1/2 cup milk
Directions
Preheat the oven to 325. Coat Photo used with permission. www.butterwithasideofbread.com mini-muffin tin with cooking spray. Beat the ingredients in a large bowl with an electric mixer for several minutes until blended and smooth. Fill each muffin hole about 1/2 full. A small cookie scoop works perfectly. Bake for about 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the pan on a wire rack for about 2 minutes and then turn the muffin pan over on a wire rack so that all the muffins are upside down. Cool completely and once all the batter is cooked, you can make the glaze.
Lemon Glaze • • • • •
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar Zest from one lemon 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup hot water
Directions
Place the wire racks over waxed paper. Beat the glaze ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth. Dip muffins in glaze to coat the bottoms (which are now the tops!) and the sides and let the excess drip off back into the bowl. Place each lemon drop back on the wire racks until the glaze is set. Enjoy!
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Chicken Enchilada Dip Katie Beall, Around Acworth Editor
Of all the Pinterest projects and recipes I've tried, this chicken enchilada dip is by far my biggest Pinterest win. I made it for the first time four years ago, and it quickly became my go-to party dish for any occasion. • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened • 10 ounces mild enchilada sauce • ¾ cup black beans (I just use a whole 16-ounce can) • ½ cup frozen corn • 1 cup chopped cooked chicken breast (I use shredded chicken cooked in salsa) • ¼ cup mild taco seasoning • 2 cups Mexican cheese, shredded
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and enchilada sauce and mix well. Add black beans, corn, chicken and taco seasoning and mix well. Add 1 ½ cups of Mexican cheese and stir in. Pour dip into an 8 x 8 baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and add remaining cheese. Return to oven for 5 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips. *I usually add more corn, chicken and cheese than the recipe calls for. Feel free to make it your own.
Artichoke Squares Michelle Mcculloch, Art Director
This is a personal favorite. • • • • • • • • •
2 6-ounce jars of marinated artichokes 1 onion, finely chopped sprinkle of garlic salt 4 eggs 1/2 cup bread crumbs 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp pepper dash of Tabasco sauce 8 ounces of white sharp cheddar cheese, grated
Directions
Drain one jar of artichoke juice into a frying pan and saute onion with garlic salt. Drain second jar of artichokes discard juice. Chop artichokes into small pieces and set aside. Beat eggs, mix in other ingredients, and add artichokes and sauteed onions. Pour into an 11 x 17 pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Cool completely before cutting. Serve at room temperature or rewarmed if made ahead.
Toffee Apple Dip
Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili
Christie Deese, Market Support Associate
Candi Hannigan, Executive Editor
• • • • •
8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 8-ounce package Heath toffee bits • Sliced granny smith apples
Not being one to brag - although, I admit that most of the bones in my body are highly competitive ones - this recipe won first place in a recent chili cook-off. I unseated a three-time champ with this dish. It was a contest at church, and I am the pastor’s wife. But I’m sure that had nothing to do with it. Try this chili and see for yourself!
Directions
• 1 pound ground beef • 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning, see below • 1/2 cup water • 15-ounce jar Tostitos Salsa Con Queso • 1 can cream of potato soup • 1 1/4 cups sour cream • 1 1/4 cups beef broth (or 1 14.5-ounce can) • 1/2 cup chicken broth • 1/2 can fire roasted diced green chiles It’s a dubious honor for the chili cook-off winner to (or more, to taste) wear the red chili-pepper hat, hastily passed along to Candi by three-time champ Bill Humphrey. • 2-3 cups frozen corn • 1 can black beans, drained • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, fresh Multigrain Tostitos Scoops Chips
Directions
Heat a dutch oven over medium high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until almost completely browned. Drain completely, and add water and taco seasoning. Lower the burner to medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the meat and liquid appear slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. In a separate large pot, over medium heat, add the salsa con queso, cream of potato soup, sour cream beef and chicken broth. Whisk to combine. Switch to a wooden spoon and stir in the chiles, corn, cilantro and beans. Bring to a simmer and serve, or keep on low for 30-60 minutes. If you want a thinner consistency, add equal amounts of beef and chicken broth. To make this into a dip, skip the broth, condensed soup and cut down on the sour cream.
Homemade Taco Seasoning • 7 tablespoons chili powder • 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon smoked paprika • 2 teaspoons garlic powder • 2 teaspoons oregano • 1/8 teaspoon coriander • 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt • 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper • 1 tablespoon cornstarch • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
Directions
Add all ingredients to a jar and shake, or stir to combine. Store in a dark, cool cupboard.
Cream the first four ingredients together in a mixer. Fold in toffee bits. Serve with apple slices. I store the apple slices in pineapple juice so they won't brown.
Cheddar, Bacon, Ranch Crack Bread Jackie Loudin, Managing Editor The name says it all. Once you start eating this, you can’t stop until it’s gone. This is a favorite in our household whether there is a football game on or not. • 1 loaf unsliced sourdough bread, preferably round • 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese • 3 ounces bacon bits (I cheat and use pre-packaged real bacon bits) • 1⁄2 cup butter, melted • 1 tablespoon dry Ranch dressing mix
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a sharp bread knife cut the bread going both directions. Do not cut through the bottom crust. Place cheese in between cuts. Sprinkle bacon bits on bread, making sure to get in between cuts. Mix together butter and Ranch dressing mix. Pour over bread. Wrap the entire loaf in foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Unwrap. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
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DOWNTOWN CANTON DINING GUIDE Your complete guide to casual and upscale sit-down dining in downtown Canton Downtown Kitchen 140 E. Marietta St., 770-479-1616 thedowntownkitchen.com
SPIRITS RESERV.
Steak & Seafood
no
no
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
East Main Café 210 E. Main St., 770-670-9333 Facebook/EastMainCafe
Coffee, Tea Baked goods
$
no
no
closed
no
no
Goin’ Coastal 125 W. Main St., 770-479-3737 goincoastalseafood.com
Seafood
no
$$
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
Green Line Brewery 192 E Main St., 770- 213-4420 www.greenlinebrews.com
Craft Beer Street Tacos Pub food
no
no
$
n/a
Beer
no
open
Full bar
yes
Local on North Eatery & Bar 170 North St., 770-213-8970 localonnorth.com
Sunday $ $$ Brunch Noon-3
Mamma Onesta’s Italian Italian no 250 E. Main St., 678-880-7770 mammaonesta.com/canton-ga
no
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Mazzato Restaurant 190 E Main St, 770-213-7648 mazzatorestaurant.com
Peruvian
no
$
$$
open
Full bar
yes
Panera Bread 205 W Main St, 770-720-1565 www.panerabread.com
Sandwich Shop
$
$
$$
open
no
no
Queenie’s 151 W. Main St. eatatqueenies.com
Southern no $$ Cooking
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
no
closed
no
no
R&M Sandwich Shop 117 W. Main St., 770-479-4413 Look for R&M on Facebook.
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Custom-made Sandwiches
no
$
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY
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Around & About CHEROKEE ARTS CENTER Jan. 12
www.cherokeearts.org
A Night with Henry Cho begins at 8 p.m. Cho has made appearances on “The Tonight Show,” “The Late, Late Show” and “Young Comedian’s Special.” He also has a one-hour Comedy Central special called “What’s that Clickin Noise?” He recently filmed the faith-based indy film “Saving Faith,” in which he co-starred and co-produced.
Feb. 14
Parents' Night Out is 5:30-8:30 p.m. The arts center is holding a Camp Imagine Date Night/Art Class. Tickets are $25 per child, plus $5 supply fee. Pickup is no later than 8:30 p.m.
JANUARY
6 Cherokee Chorale’s
Auditions for the second part of 31st season will begin at 3 p.m. in the chapel at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Interested singers do not need to prepare an audition piece in advance but they will be asked to demonstrate their vocal range, pitch-matching, and sightreading abilities. Additional information can be found at www.cherokeechorale.org.
County Relay for Life’s 15 Cherokee first-team captains meeting will
begin at 6 p.m. at E.T. Booth Middle School. This year’s Carnival for a Cure will be held April 26. Anyone interested in helping with the event is invited to attend. For more details, visit https://bit.ly/2QyR3zW.
Cherokee Music Teachers 19 Association The
FALANY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Jan. 9, 11
www.reinhardt.edu/falany
We’ve Only Just Begun: Carpenters Remembered at 7:30 p.m. Starring
Michelle Berting Brett who is accompanied by a live, four-piece Nashville band, the show re-creates the Carpenters’ original sound.
Jan. 27
The Acrobats of Cirque-tacular at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dazzling circus feats in a high-energy family-friendly show for all ages.
Feb. 8
Tara Winds at 8 p.m. The all-adult symphonic band is celebrating more than 30 years, and is composed primarily of musicians from metropolitan Atlanta, but it draws total membership from instrumentalists throughout Georgia.
Feb. 15
Sinatra Forever at 7:30 p.m. Rick Michel, who has performed and headlined in Las Vegas since 1981, will present the show that focuses on the music of Frank Sinatra.
will hold a meeting and masterclass at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center. The 9:30 a.m. meeting will be followed by a masterclass in the concert hall from 10 a.m.-noon. The clinician will be Dr. Alex Wasserman of Reinhardt University. All association programs are open to the public. For more information or directions, please contact Linda Lokey at linda@lokey.net.
FEBRUARY
Day in Canton is 8 a.m.-noon. 2 Dumpster The free monthly cleanup day for Canton residents takes place at the Canton Municipal Court Building. Visit www.cantonga.gov for a list of acceptable items.
Through Feb. 9
Feb. 18-22
The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency will be collecting items for Project Valentine. Items needed include: chapstick, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, any art or music activities, candy (sugar-free and regular), and other holidayrelated items. They’ll be packed into goody bags and delivered to the Cherokee Training Center and Eagle Pointe. Drop off donations at the Rec Center, 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. www.cherokeega.com.
Splish Splash Camp for ages 5-13 at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. Participants must be able to swim 25 yards in seven feet of water unassisted. Fee is $175. www.crpa.net.
with fun run beginning at 7:30 a.m. and 5K at 8 a.m. $10 pre-registration for fun run, $25 for 5K. Prices increase $5 after Feb. 8. Email lcollett@cherokeega.com for more information.
Feb. 21-24
The University Theater presents “The Secret Garden” at 7:30 p.m. nightly, 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. This semester’s musical production by students in the Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in musical theater degree.
Feb. 26
The University Wind Ensemble at 7:30 p.m.
UPCOMING CAMPS Non-Stop Action Break Camp, sponsored by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency and held at the recreation center, 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock. 770-924-7768. Daily hours are 7 a.m.-6 p.m. for kindergarteners through age 12. $170 (deposit for two days $70). $100 due Friday before camp starts.
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& Hoses Fun Run and Walk 23 Guns starts and ends at Hobgood Park,
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Some of the damage in Puerto Rico caused by Hurricane Maria.
Corps of Engineers Responds to Disasters BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS
Several major hurricanes have made landfall in the United States and its territories in the past year, and many people are surprised that U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff at Allatoona Lake often are deployed to assist the Corps Emergency Support Mission. Each year, the Corps sends hundreds of people to respond to disasters around the world. When disasters occur, it is not just a local Corps district or office that responds. Personnel and other resources are mobilized across the country to carry out our response missions. Under the National Response Framework, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is assigned as the primary agency for Emergency Support Function No. 3, public works and engineering. The Corps assists the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by coordinating federal public works and engineering-related support, as well as providing technical assistance, engineering expertise, and construction management to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and/or recover from domestic incidents. The Corps of Engineers has more than 40 specially trained response teams ready to perform a wide range of missions assigned by FEMA. A few of these missions include: • Temporary power. Providing emergency power to critical public facilities. • Debris management. Emergency debris clearance, removal and disposal management from public property. • Temporary roofing. Missions range from providing technical assistance to managing and contracting installation of blue plastic sheeting onto the roofs of damaged homes or public structures. • Emergency infrastructure assessments. Manage structural safety assessments of commercial and residential structures, as 42
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
well as the assessments of infrastructure systems, such as water and wastewater treatment facilities. • Housing. Temporary housing missions can be wide ranging and may include technical assistance to FEMA and/or its contractors, placing prefabricated units on private property or existing mobile home parks, as well as design and construction of new group mobile home sites, to include the necessary infrastructure and placement of units. In response to Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the Mobile District Office deployed 14 Allatoona Lake employees on 20 separate missions from September 2017 until April 2018. These missions totaled roughly 600 days that Allatoona staff members were deployed in the field. Among the deployed staff to Puerto Rico and South Florida were eight rangers, one lead ranger, two managers, two front office personnel and one contract inspector. The missions that were supported by Allatoona were debris removal, blue roof installation, and field office management and support. Several received commendations for their contributions during the relief missions, including two rangers who were credited with saving a life during a flash flood. Currently, four Allatoona staff members are deployed in Florida and South Georgia following the devastation brought on by Hurricane Michael in October 2018. If you have any questions concerning the USACE support missions, contact the Allatoona Lake Office at www.sam.usace.army.mil/ Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/Allatoona-Lake or 678-721-6700.
Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.
Assistant OPM Doug Evans (far right) along with others deployed from Corps Districts throughout the U.S.
Col. DeLapp presenting Rangers Randy Flint and Mark Jackson (center and right) with Commanders Coins as Charles Demko (in white) watches.
Keith Hyde, from Lucky Peak Lake, Boise, Idaho, with Ranger Shana O'Rear.
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Reach, Rescue, Restore BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Every rescue has a face. Every face has an individual story. Every story includes a dream. The Atlanta Dream Center (ADC) exists to restore dreams that have been shattered by life’s seemingly insurmountable challenges. Its ultimate mission is to reach, rescue and restore men, women and children, in order that the glory of God may be known.
The ADC operates three ministries to accomplish this mission: • Out of Darkness. For those in commercial sex trafficking: Individuals are exploited for sex every night. ADC reaches both women and men, and offers safety, care and hope for the future. • Metro Kids. For atrisk children and their communities: There are many children who are hurting and surrounded by poverty, drug abuse, violence and crime. ADC’s creative solutions help break the cycle of hopelessness. 44
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• iAM. For people struggling with homelessness and
addiction: ADC’s staff sees beyond rough exteriors and circumstances. They know any person experiencing homelessness has a name, a story, and a bright future, and wants to walk that journey with him.
The ADC was founded by two Woodstock residents, Pastor Paul and Patty Palmer, and family, in 2003. Although the ADC is in downtown Atlanta, the ministry reaches back into Cherokee. “Whatever is going on in Atlanta is going on here,” Pastor Paul Palmer said. Living outside the Perimeter does not exempt us from big city problems, like sex trafficking. More than 1,300 victims have been rescued from commercial sexual exploitation through ADC since it started; 34 of them have been Cherokee County residents. “The thing that sticks out most is how many young women I have met who went to our county schools,” said Katherine Staff members under hundreds of backpacks filled with school items for Amick, a Cherokee County children in struggling families.
rescue team volunteer and Aroundabout Local Media employee. “Also shocking, the volume of calls we receive on the hotline from the Cherokee County jail. Sex trafficking is right here in our area. Bringing one young woman to the safe house with all she owned in one small suitcase broke my heart.” Simplicity is a Above, Pastor Paul and Patty Palmer. common thread through Left, Volunteers pray before reaching the many life-changing those in need on the street. ministries of the ADC. Out of Darkness holds Princess Nights, during which volunteers go and hand out a single rose and handwritten notes to women on the streets. This gift is delivered with two messages: “You are loved!” and “You are beautiful!” These simple gestures often lead to conversations with the women that ultimately lead to rescues. Part of the rescue includes a stay at the safe house that Amick mentioned. The Solomon House is a transition home for women who need to prove they are drug-free before entering a long-term program. When they arrive, they are fed and allowed to sleep on beds with new sheets (a luxury to women who often don’t have sheets at all). Special touches like these deliver the undeniable messages that she is valued and loved. The first woman ever rescued, Vicky, still texts Pastor Paul every day. “I saw how handshakes built deals on the street, but I learned that hugs on the street built hearts,” Vicky said. The average cost of a rescue is $7,000; each woman goes through a yearlong program, and ADC pays her way. Mentors also are assigned to the women, keeping in touch at least twice weekly to keep up with their progress. To become a part of ADC’s transformational work, Princess Nights are 7-10:30 p.m. Saturdays (for volunteers age 16 and older). Other opportunities include Adopt-A-Block (outreach to at-risk families) and Compassion Night (outreach to the homeless). “Over 8,000 volunteers have come through ADC since we began, and we’ve never had an incident,” Palmer said. For more details, visit www.atldreamcenter.com to make a donation and discover how to get involved in loving and serving our community, or call 404-817-3502. If you know someone who needs the hotline, call 404-941-6024.
2019 STATE OF THE CITY Hosted by IN WDSTK at the Morning INfluence Friday January 25, 2019 // 8 AM The Chambers at City Center RSVP: WDSTK.GA/2019SOTC
Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church. AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
BALL GROUND
HICKORY FLAT
435 Old Canton Road, Canton 770-735-2025
2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
Jan. 7
Jan. 7
Canasta and Samba. For ages 18 and older.
Ball Ground Needle Crafters at 6 p.m. If you knit, crochet, sew, needlepoint, or enjoy
p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join the Cherokee County Teen Advisory Board in a Try Not to Laugh Challenge. Watch funny videos without laughing, for the chance to win some really cool prizes.
Jan. 14, 28
Jan. 14
globally popular card game. For ages 18 and older.
6:30. Learn all-natural tips for staying healthy all through winter.
Hand Knee and Foot Card Game at 10:30 a.m. The rules for this game are similar to
Jan. 8, 22
any activity that uses needle arts, bring your current project and needles, yarn, hooks, fabric and/or patterns.
Bridge Club at 10:30 a.m. Beginners and experienced players are welcome to play this The Board Games Group meets at 3 p.m. Join the group for challenging fun playing different board games. A chess set is available for attendees. For ages 18 and older.
Jan. 19
Lego Club at 3 p.m. There is 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 blocks are provided.
CoderDojo at 4:30 p.m. Learn to code, build a website, create an app or a game, and
Teens Try Not to Laugh Challenge at 6
Stay Healthy Naturally Thru Winter at
Jan. 15
Manga Club at 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged to read and discuss different manga series and related topics. This month, participants will read and discuss “My Hero Academia,” drawing characters, and competing in manga/anime-inspired group games.
explore technology in an informal, creative and social environment. Feel free to bring a laptop. Parents are encouraged to participate. For ages 7-17.
Jan. 16
Jan. 23
moving and grooving with friends from Go Noodle. It’ll be a dance party to remember! Experience parachute play, music, gross motor skills, and storytelling in one actionpacked hour.
Ball Ground Book Club at 10:30 a.m. Book club members will discuss their impressions of “The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah.
Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get
Jan. 19
No-Sew Throw at 1 p.m. Lynne Mock will be teaching how to make a no-sew braid throw. Bring your own blizzard, polar or antipill fleece material (1.5 yards) for each side, and she’ll show you the rest. Registration is required.
Jan. 28
Sundae Funday Ice Cream Social and Storytime at 6 p.m. Grab a spoon and dig
in. Build an ice cream sundae and enjoy an evening storytime filled with books, songs and crafts. Registration is required.
Top right, Branch Manager Rebecca Camp introduces the Hasty Elementary School chorus for its opening performance at the R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s Holiday Carnival event. Left, librarians Kara and Victoria assist visitors with the library’s virtual reality headsets at R.T. Jones Memorial Library. 46
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton 770-479-3090
Jan. 7
Beginner’s American Sign Language at 6 p.m. Learn how
to talk with your hands using American Sign Language. For all ages.
Jan. 9
Patron Art Gallery at 5 p.m. Join us as we celebrate our
talented patron artists by displaying their art. For all ages. Call 770-479-3090 (Ext. 228) to register a piece of art for display.
Jan. 13
D.I.G. (Drop-In Genealogy) at 2 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of
genealogy discovery by researching and learning about various topics. Ancestry.com is available for use within the library, as well as other research tools.
Jan. 14
The Canton Eclectic Readers at 6 p.m. This month, the book club for unconventional readers will be reading “Track of the Cat” by Nevada Barr. Teen Gift Wrap Art at 6 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to create art out of old holiday gift wrap.
Jan. 15
Sewing 101: Buttons, Backstitches and Hems at 4 p.m. Always
wanted to learn how to sew, but didn’t know where to start? Learn from sewing librarians! Topics covered include: how to properly sew on a button, a basic hand-sewing stitch, and beginning hemming techniques. For ages 13 and older.
Jan. 24
Drop-In Learning: Libby eBooks and Audio at 4 p.m. Drop-in and learn how to check out eBooks and Audiobooks on your device from the library using the Libby app by Overdrive. Before attending, please make sure that your library card is up to date and that you have a library PIN. For all ages.
WHEN YOU NEED A
HELPING HAND. WE CAN HELP.
We understand that taking care of a loved one can be challenging. When the weight of everyday tasks becomes too overwhelming, Manor Lake is here with 24-hour support and assistance for your loved one – and peace of mind for you.
Manor Lake BridgeMill 131 Holly St, Canton, GA 30114 678.990.5055 • manorlakebr.com AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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2 0 1 9 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. 21: Martin Luther King Day Cherokee County school holiday
FEBRUARY Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
1: Readers’ Choice nominations begin 2: Groundhog Day 3: Super Bowl in Atlanta 9: ACT at Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, River Ridge, Sequoyah high schools 14: Valentine’s Day 15: Arbor Day Tree Giveaway, Woodstock 18: President’s Day 18-22: Winter Break 20-22: Inclement Weather Makeup Days 23: Guns and Hoses fundraiser
MARCH March March March March March March March March March
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1: Friday Night Live series begins in Woodstock 6: Ash Wednesday 9: SAT at Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, River Ridge high schools 10: Daylight Saving Time begins 13: Cherokee Career Expo 17: St. Patrick’s Day 20: First Day of Spring 21: Purim 29-30: Canton Art and Wine Walk
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
APRIL April April April April April April April April April April April
1: Readers’ Choice voting begins 1-5: Spring Break 13: Holly Springs Easter Egg Hunt ACT at Cherokee, Creekview high schools 14: Palm Sunday 15: Tax Day 19-27: Passover 19: Good Friday 21: Easter 24: Administrative Professionals Day 26: Relay for Life, E.T. Booth Middle School 27: Greenstock Day and Recycling Event
MAY May May May May May May May May May
1: Holly Springs Job Fair, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 3: Canton First Fridays begin 4: SAT at Cherokee High School Derby Day at the Rock Barn Woodstock Farmers Market opens Holly Springs Great American Cleanup 4-5: Canton Festival of the Arts 5: Cinco de Mayo 11: Woodstock Concert Series – Mark Wills Possible opening of Canton Farmers Market 12: Mother’s Day 18: Bacon ‘n’ Banjos in Woodstock 29: Last Student Day, Cherokee County Schools
SEPTEMBER
MAY May 27: Memorial Day Ceremony in Woodstock May 30: Sequoyah High graduation 4 p.m.
Sept. 23: First Day of Fall Sept. 28-29: Riverfest
Cherokee High graduation 8 p.m.
OCTOBER
May 31: Etowah High graduation 4 p.m.
Creekview High graduation 8 p.m.
JUNE June June June June June
1: Woodstock High graduation 9 a.m. River Ridge High graduation 1 p.m. SAT at Woodstock High School 8: Woodstock Concert Series – TBD ACT at Cherokee, Woodstock high schools 14: Flag Day 16: Father’s Day 21: First Day of Summer
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
JULY July 4: Fireworks displays in Woodstock, Canton July 13: Woodstock Concert Series – TBD
AUGUST Aug. 1: First Day of School Aug. 6: Police Night Out in Woodstock Aug. 10: Woodstock Concert Series - TBD
NOVEMBER Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
SEPTEMBER Sept. 2: Labor Day and School Holiday Sept. 5, 12, 19, 26: Brown Bag Concerts in Woodstock Sept. 8: Grandparents’ Day Sept. 11: Woodstock’s 9/11 Day of Remembrance Sept. 14: Woodstock Concert Series - TBD Sept. 23-27: Fall Break Sept. 30: Rosh Hashana begins
1: Scarecrow Invasion in Woodstock 5: Holly Springs Autumn Fest 9: Yom Kippur 12: Woodstock Fire Station No. 14 Open House 14-20: Sukkot 14: Columbus Day, School Holiday 19: Canton Family Fun Day, Children’s Safety Expo 22-30: World Series 26: BBQ & Brews and Boos 31: Halloween KidsFest in Woodstock
3: Daylight Saving Time ends 5: Election Day. No school. 9: Canton Inferno Chili Cook-Off, Veterans Day parade 11: Veterans Day 16: Recycling event in Woodstock 25-29: Thanksgiving break 28: Thanksgiving
DECEMBER Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec.
6: Holly Springs Tree Lighting 7: Holly Springs and Woodstock Christmas parades 13: Shop with a Hero in Woodstock 22-30: Hanukkah 23-Jan. 6: Christmas break 25: Christmas 26-Jan. 13: Christmas tree Chip & Dip
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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A Word of Advice for the New Year In my English/language arts class, I asked students to give adults advice on setting New Year’s resolutions. Here’s what they had to say. - Joseph Lemmo
Sal Furfaro “I think that a New Year’s resolution for adults should be to stop smoking or anything bad for them because we all want our parents to live long lives. I also think that drinking is a very big issue, too. I wish that stuff just wasn’t invented. One last thing. Parents, put your phones down and pay a little more attention to your kids. You want to know why so many kids get bullied? It’s because those kids that are bullying them are probably the kids that don’t have a mom or dad who pays attention to them! Parents, just please put your phones down and pay a little more attention to your kids. Thank you!”
Liam Leaf Feldman “I think a good New Year’s resolution for adults would be to spend more time with their kids (if you are a parent). I think that because if you spend more time with your kids, you could make a better bond with them, and you might be able to have a little fun while you’re at it! Another New Year’s resolution I have for adults is to spend more time outdoors hiking, jogging or just walking. You could even jog or walk with your kid. Finally, try to be a nicer/ better person because it might make you feel better about yourself, and you might make more friends!”
Kimberly Strickland “I think that all adults should make the New Year’s resolution to be more social. We all spend way too much time looking down at screens. Even if we are texting, we aren’t using our voices. We are just using emojis and abbreviations like BTW, OMG, FYI and LOL. We should express our feelings face-to-face and be less impersonal. It is so much more fun to talk because you can put effects in your voice to get a point across, and it is faster than typing (even if you can type fast). “When you spend time with family and friends it creates memories. Memories that you will look back on and appreciate. I really do think that spending time with friends and family is as easy as arranging a 20-minute walk in the park or having lunch with someone at your favorite restaurant. Talking face-to-face is much better for you than texting or posting on Instagram, and this is even proven by science. So, make it a goal to spend more time socializing face-to-face this New Year!” 50
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Tayler Sims “Each year lots of people have New Year’s resolutions. I’m sure that you’ve had one or two at least, but what is one that kids can make for adults? I think that one good New Year’s resolution for adults would be to wake up earlier and get more exercise. I feel like this would be a good one because a lot of adults don’t exercise properly, and that could cause problems in your health. If you don’t exercise, your heart won’t get enough either. Also, it may help your bones get stronger if you exercise. That is why I think that exercising is a good New Year’s resolution for adults.”
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.
Elm Street
Setting Goals Throughout the Year BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
Why do we make resolutions? I have thought about this for a while, so I decided to look into it, and here is what I found (with a few of my anecdotal thoughts sprinkled in).
It’s the language of the brain.
One of the most important functions of the brain is the executive function, a cluster of cognitive abilities that have evolved to enable us to set and achieve goals. This brain function is what sets us apart from all other living things. Most other creatures react based on instinct; we take action based on planning.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
Goals give us meaning.
Goals give life meaning through purpose. For Elm Street, behind the stated goal ("I want to put on a great show …") is our desire to do something to improve our lives and the lives of others ("… so that I can contribute to the community"). Purpose is what motivates us and moves us to take action.
Resolutions make us feel good.
They literally do. As neuroscientists learn more about the emotional circuits of the brain, they are discovering that one of our most basic emotional reactions is happiness through pursuit. Being actively engaged in the pursuit of a goal activates the brain’s pleasure centers, independent of the outcome. It seems we derive more pleasure from chasing our dreams than from achieving them. This seemed appropriate to add as we are in the middle of our Season of Journey.
JAN 18 FRIDAY AT 8:00PM
The alternative is the default.
Without suggesting that we should plan out every minute of our lives, think about what your default is: What do you do when you are not working toward something? Is it a productive or enjoyable default? Or is it something that you later regret, such as binge-watching a TV show and reading Facebook posts?
Goals keep us connected.
Maybe most important, goals keep people connected. Common goals are the foundational block upon which we build communities. From families to art shows, from small start-ups to large corporations, the success of a group depends on how much its members believe in a common goal. Maybe I need to set goals for myself throughout the year. Maybe you do, too. I know we constantly do at Elm Street for our shows, our visionaries (volunteers), ourselves, and for our community. If you set a goal, you may find yourself getting more involved with the community. I’m confident you won’t regret it!
Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.
JAN 31-FEB 3 THURS/FRI/SAT AT 7:30PM SUN AT 2:30PM
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Members of Woodstock Middle School's Friends Club.
Experience the Challenge BY BRYCE JONES
We are all born different. You could have brown hair and blue eyes, or red hair and brown eyes. Maybe you are taller than others, or perhaps you run fast or slow. You could be born with autism or be vision impaired. You could be blind or deaf, or only have one arm or leg. Even though we are born different, it does not mean we should be treated differently. Respect and kindness should be shown to everyone, no matter who they are. At Woodstock Middle School, we embrace our peers' differences and even show what it is like to have these differences. We do this through a special event called Experience the Challenge (ETC). We have an elective class called Friends Club, where club members get to go into the classes of students with special needs. They get to help teach, play with, and befriend peers
Students learn that everyday tasks become more difficult when you have a disability. 52
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
they may have never gotten to know because they were in separate classrooms. Friends Club members are the students that create and run ETC, so every student in the school can learn about each other’s differences and become more understanding. Experience the Challenge is where students, instead of going to gym for one day, get to experience what it is like to complete tasks when you have a disability. The five disabilities demonstrated are: autism, physical disability, vision impairment, hearing impairment and intellectual disability. Students are split into groups and assigned a disability, and have to complete specific challenges with that disability. For example, vision is impaired using special goggles and hearing is reduced with headphones. To demonstrate autism, students have to write a summary of their day while other students try to distract them by any means possible. One of the most popular challenges is getting through a closed door in a wheelchair without using your feet or slamming the door (which is a difficult task). The whole point of ETC is to show students what it is like to have a disability. Some students may tease special-needs students because they are different. ETC helps them to better understand the daily lives of students with special needs. We want all students to know how hard life can be when you have special needs, and when people make fun of you, it makes life harder. We want everyone to uplift and be kind to all their peers, even if they are different, because truthfully, we are all different. Just because a person has a disability does not mean they don’t have abilities, too.
Bryce Jones is a seventh-grader at Woodstock Middle School and a member of the Friends Club.
EVERYDAY
“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” ― John Holmes We always love the holidays and the chaos surrounding them. Then, suddenly, it is over. The new year resets the calendar and we have a clean slate in front of us. It is once again time for resolutions and new intentions. This year, make it your intention to constantly, consistently - not just conveniently - make a difference in the lives of others. Go out of the way to make someone feel special or help others, whether it is through a simple smile, phone call or helping physically or financially – because you can. Make your 2019 intention to focus on others before yourself and see what the new year brings! THANK YOU for making a difference last year! Collectively, YOU provided relief and encouragement to local families who had more than their fair share of challenges. Everyday Angels is a small 501c3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. We are fortunate to have the medium that allows us to share stories throughout our county and rally support for families who find themselves in desperate situations. Most of the donations received are designated for a featured family and 100 percent of those funds are given to them. Everyday Angels is a volunteer organization with no salaries or overhead to pay. We thank you for entrusting us to serve those whose stories touch your heart. YOU have made a significant difference in the
Etowah students with the Ruiz family.
lives of many this past year and we are grateful! We are grateful to be in a position to meet and serve amazing and brave people and witness, firsthand, the love and compassion of our community. We could not make a difference without you. During the past few months, Everyday Angels has received many emails from readers offering household items, furniture and appliances in support of the Ruiz family, who lost their home in a fire.
Once the family secured another home, we rented a truck and ventured out to meet our kind readers to pick up and deliver these items to the Ruiz family. Your donations in support of them also were used to assist in repair work to their mobile home and connect their utilities. We must thank Ana, of Oak Grove Elementary, for caring and coordinating the efforts for this family as well as a few Etowah High School student athletes who gave up their day to help make this happen.
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, 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. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com
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YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Special Holiday Show Presented by Students The Cherokee High School Friends Club presented its annual holiday show, which this year was “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer,” and received special help from American Sign Language students. Students in teacher Denise Manning’s ASL 3 class interpreted the production for audience members who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Dropping off collected items are Meg McCord (left) and Janna Moore with Reinhardt University.
Reinhardt Hosts Annual Food Drive Reinhardt University hosted its second annual food drive to benefit needy families at R.M. Moore Elementary. In addition to food, Honey Baked Ham gift cards were collected and used to purchase turkeys for families in need at Thanksgiving. The remainder of the cards were used at Christmas.
Students, from left: Mallory Sheppard, Teresa Bell and Carolina Tyner provide interpretation during the show.
Hot Rodders Team Places at Nationals
From left: Volunteer coach Ron Shultheiss, students Jason Kissoon, Gaven Reamy, Chaz Johnston, Jacob Allred, Levi Hathcock, automotive technology teacher and coach Chuck Wilson, and student Travis Bell. 54
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
The Sequoyah Hot Rodders team of automotive technology students placed seventh at the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow National Engine Challenge Competition in Las Vegas, outscoring teams from across the country. For the competition, students were timed on how quickly they deconstructed and reassembled a V-8 engine to the manufacturer’s specifications. Teams were scored on speed and accuracy. In its three years of competition, the Sequoyah team has qualified for nationals each year. “I am so proud of these guys,” coach Chuck Wilson said, noting the team set a school record — 22 minutes and 7 seconds — in its engine assembly time. “It was a tough week, both physically and mentally, and the guys really came through. A coach who has competed for 10 years and has won two national championships was able to watch our team perform one of our runs. He made a point of telling us that, in all his years competing, our team was the smoothest operating team he had ever seen.”
Student Essay Winner Promotes Water Preservation
Bryce Jones at the state Capitol, with Principal David Childress.
Bryce Jones, a Woodstock Middle School seventh-grader and contributing writer for Around Canton magazine (see article on Page 52), was named the Cherokee County winner in the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District’s annual contest. He also was named the regional winner out of more than 1,200 entries. Middle school students from across metro Atlanta wrote 300- to 500word essays answering the questions: “What is stormwater pollution? What impact does it have on the health of our rivers, lakes, and streams, and what can you do to prevent it?” As the region’s winner, Jones received a $500 prize. The 12 county winners each received $100. Jones was joined at the ceremony by his family and Principal David Childress. He will be recognized by the Cherokee County School Board and superintendent of schools at this month’s school board meeting.
Santa and Students Celebrate at County Airport Students from Avery Elementary School, along with teacher and music instructor David Boggs, visited the Cherokee County Regional Airport, where they sang, toured the airport and helped decorate a 15-foot Christmas tree. Cherokee County Airport Authority Chairman Don Stevens welcomed the students and special guests, who included Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived in a helicopter. The tree was lit by Norman Sosebee, who once lived on the land where the terminal building now sits. It is tradition that he lights the tree every year. Students placed their handmade ornaments on the tree, and the Cherokee County Fire Department assisted by hanging ornaments on higher limbs. During the 2017-18 school year, 180 students toured the airport. Past programs have included appearances by the B17 bomber the Memphis Belle, from the movie of the same name, as well a T-6 Texan and the Cherokee County Fire Department foam truck.
Members of the Avery Elementary School choir greet Santa and Mrs. Claus who arrive in style, via helicopter. AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Cherokee P hotography Club
Striking images, taken August 2018 by photography club members on a field trip to New England. Members take one major trip a year, in addition to several local ones.
Kim Bates
Linda Bauer
Brenda Clapp
Karen Beedle 56
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
Sandee Horan
Kim Bates
Percy Clapp
Brenda Clapp
Andy Bauer
Sandee Horan 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. AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS #ForCanton 271 Marietta Road. Provides immediate needs of food, clothing and offer life skills classes. 770-345-3030. www.forcanton.com. Ahimsa House helps victims of domestic violence 24 hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.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. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.
Angel House Girls Home is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com.
Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Gina Jeter 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.
Anna Crawford Children’s Center is dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.
Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.
Bethany Place is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. 770-479-9462. www.bethanyplacehome.org. CASA for Children promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations and 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 or admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services.
Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly backto-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org. Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. 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. Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people who struggle intensely 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 or info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other homegoods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries helps empower and provide humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation works to establish literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. Florine Russell 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org.
Collins Dixon Foundation: Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness and helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Contact: Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560.
MUST Ministries offers 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.
Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com.
National Alliance for Mental Illness is the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org.
Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com.
Never Alone Outreach provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org.
Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
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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. 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. Papa’s Pantry is a year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org. Pet Buddies Food Pantry helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also 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. Tom Prior 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council is a nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Al-Anon and AlaTeen Canton Meets: 8 pm Tuesday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.hp?district=17. American Heart Association - Cherokee Division 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. Caregivers Alzheimers Support Group Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday of Every Other Month at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Rd. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery is a 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 provides support for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs. Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@comcast. net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294. 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 of all Christian denominations. 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. Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637 gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors by offering 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). Jeannie 770-919-9275.
CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 45, Meets 7 p.m. fourth Thursday at 160 McClure St. 770-479-4405. AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50+ Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Cost is $15. Rich Sanford, 770-926-1944. BridgeMill-Sixes Service League Marlyn Patouillet 770- 345-7941, www.bssl.org. 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. Canton Lions Club 678- 224-7878. www.lionsofcanton.org. Canton Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Canton IHOP. canton_optimist@hotmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/home. Canton Rotary Club Meets: Noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs, www.cantongarotary.org. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Cherokee County Service League 770-704-5991. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20. Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com.
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.
Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 770-480-4179.
La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770-517-0191.
VFW Post 5262 Meets 7 p.m. second Thursday at 278 Moose Loop Canton off Marietta Highway 404-275-2066.
MOMS Club of Woodstock-TowneLake 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. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. Kelly 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club Meets: Noon on third Thursdays at Canton IHOP Glenda Hinton 770-345-1751. Canton Communicators Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Thursdays at the Canton YMCA. Steven Van Schooten 770-366-8224. www.toastmasters.org. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/.
Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net.
Woodstock Lions Club Meets: second and fourth Tuesday at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Woodstocklionsclub@gmail.com or 770-906-2958.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Cherokee County Democrat Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursdays at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 8:30 a.m. first Saturdays at IHOP, 3010 Northside Parkway, Canton 30014. 770- 345-3489. www.cherokeedemocrats.com/d2. Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop. Cherokee Republican Assembly Meets: 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday at Holly Springs Train Depot 164 Hickory Road Kevin Wright 502-649-0089 or kevinwwrightenterprises@gmail.com. Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall in Woodstock. Conrad Quagliaroli 770- 378-8232.
Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Chick-fil-A on 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678- 520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the lake. Rob Kelly 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 A community of singers from all walks of life who love the art of choral singing. 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. Cherokee County Saddle Club Hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) Roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association Linda Lokey 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.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 forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Wildlife Action, Inc. is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. 770-924-7464. www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com. Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.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 in Woodstock. 678-445-6518. AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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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
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 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 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org 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 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 Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.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
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 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540 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, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org
Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org
Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
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
ROMAN CATHOLIC
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 Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247 www.ballground.church/
Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock 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
OTHERS
Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 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 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 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.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 Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com 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 New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com 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 St., 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 Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org 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 AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Advertisers January 2019
ANIMALS/PETS BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com
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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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Pet Play Place 770-733-9123 www.petplayplace.com
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com
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AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906 Chloe’s Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.ChloesAutoRepair.com
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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS INWDSTK wdstk.ga/2019sotc
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CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org 62
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743
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CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org
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Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com
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Treasure Tax 678-888-4829 www.treasuretax.com
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HOME & GARDEN Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)
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Canton Dental Town 770-622-1515 www.dentaltownsmiles.com
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ClearView Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing 43 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com
Dentistry at Hickory Flat 770-213-8166 www.HickoryFlatDentist.com
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Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com
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INSURANCE
Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
Geico Jerry Sorrels 770-565-9696
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 1 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 1 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
Williams Orthodontics Canton: 770-345-4155 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com
Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com
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EDUCATION/TRAINING 9
www.givingcareathome.com FINANCIAL SERVICES
CLEANING SERVICES
ATTORNEYS
Tidwell Strimban 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830
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FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION Katherine Amick • 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com
North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 5 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com Plastic Surgery Center of the South 38 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Stryker Seminar Doug B. Widener, MD 1-888-787-9537 www.patients.stryker.com/seminars
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REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cover 404-954-2486 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com
Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com
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Serenity 770-592-2404 www.TreetopResidential.com
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RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT
RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.TheNeighborhoodNestGA.com The Safe House 678-398-9021 www.AtlantaSafeHouse.com
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Aspire Dance Arts 770-213-4130 www.AspireDanceArts.com
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Big Door Vineyards 844-692-4436 www.BigDoorVineyards.com
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Arbor at BridgeMill, The Cover, 32, 33 770-691-0022 www.ArborBridgeMill.com
Elm Steet Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
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Lodge at BridgeMill, The 833-358-4220 www.TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com
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Hobgood Baseball www.HobgoodParkBaseball.com
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Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-460-8459 www.ManorLakeBR.com
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SENIOR LIVING/SENIOR SERVICES
AROUND CANTON | January 2019
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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.
Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.
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. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
Around Canton
Distribution Map Circulation: 25,000 64
AROUND CANTON | January 2019