1-19 Townelaker webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Contents

48 & 49 On the Cover

Dentistry for Woodstock, Dr. Bruce Fink Photo by J. King Images

January 2019

Features

In Every Issue

4 10 14 31 34 36 38 58 59 62 70 76 84 86 90 92 94

Readers’ Choice 2019

A new and improved process is ready to go, with a nominations term beginning Feb. 1.

17 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.

46 Corps Members Deployed

Members of the Allatoona Lake Corps of Engineers are sent to help in hurricane relief.

72 Super Bowl Mania

A few recipes and ideas for fan activities help you make the most of the big game taking place in Atlanta.

Around Towne Community News Celebrations Greenprints Trail Map Everyday Angels Rob’s Rescues Ribbon Cuttings Towne Lake Dining Guide TLBA Community Calendar Library Events School News Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide Recent Home Sales Clubs & Orgs Church Listings Directory of Advertisers

Advertising Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com TowneLakerMagazine

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

@Townelaker

townelakermagazine

Contributors 60 68 39 85 22 64 25 66 55 22 15 78 26 23 18 40 46 54 44 30 52 24 50 24 20

Don Akridge Katie Beall Danny Branom Christopher Brazelton Alex Butler Michael Caldwell Dr. Kawami Clay Delia Halverson John Harris Kurt Johnson Kurt & Sheila Johnson Bryce Jones Jackie Loudin Lee Martin Andrea Mathis Josh Nelson Christopher Purvis Bill Ratliff Susan Schulz Jennifer Stockton Elisabeth Stubbs Dan Thrailkill Tim Timmons Jessica Tyra Ashley Velez

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

Letter From the Editor

What's Open

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 22-24. 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!

Southern Sky Home office and showroom is open at 250 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. The store sells occasional, dining and living room furniture. 678-842-8411. www.southernskyhome.com.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

What's Coming Christopher Brazelton, director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Center, confirmed that plans are in the engineering stage for a playground and public restrooms to be built this year at the Greenprints trailhead at Elm Street Event Green. At press time, no further details were available.

What's Changed

Williams Orthodontics has partnered with Smile Doctors Braces, a move Dr. Michael Williams said “will take our patientcentered 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. GP Nails at 4379 Towne Lake Parkway in the Publix shopping center has changed ownership. For details on new services, visit GP Nails on Facebook or call 770-928-8981.

IN WDSTK Ribbon Cuttings

Canoe, 450 Chambers St., Woodstock 706-258-2999, www.canoelook.com

Vingenzos, 105 E. Main St., #100, Woodstock 770-924-9133, www.vingenzos.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

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

published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.

Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.

Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Fla., has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2019. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 9

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

COMMUNITY

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. Here is your chance to thank them.

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.townelaker.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!

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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TOWNELAKER | January 2019

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

‘American Pickers’ to Film in Georgia

Public Safety Honors a Public Servant Cherokee County Commissioner Scott Gordon, who served District 4 for four years, recently was honored by the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services for his support. Gordon decided earlier last year not to seek re-election; Corey Ragsdale was elected to the commission to represent District 4. Gordon, who has served as a volunteer firefighter, was a staunch supporter of public safety in Cherokee County, and was a member of the team that planned the fire and emergency services training center in Holly Springs. “It has been a great pleasure working with Commissioner Gordon,” said Cherokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather. “He has supported us since his first day on the job, and has always expressed a sincere interest to assist in providing the best fire service possible. It has been an honor to work with Commissioner Gordon, and we appreciate his service and we wish him well on whatever the future has in store for him.”

Eddie Robinson wishes Gordon well during a recent ceremony.

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-square-foot 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 two-floor 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.

Give a Foster Kid a Suitcase 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. 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. 10

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

WHAT ADVANCED HEART CARE LOOKS LIKE.

Northside Hospital Cherokee was built with a team that is recognized for providing a high level of expertise in treating heart attacks, heart failure and stroke. Right here you have board certified cardiologists, nurses and expert staff to help you survive a heart attack and teach you how to live a healthy life. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifetime of care. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Fundraiser Sends Donation to Cancer Society An annual Woodstock tradition — the Gathering of Friends Charity Golf Tournament — raised more than $17,000 in 2018, up from $3,000 the previous year. Garry Harley began the fundraiser in 2014 as a chance for friends to gather, enjoy a friendly game of golf and benefit the American Cancer Society. When his wife Teresa lost her battle with breast cancer in 2015, he turned the focus to breast cancer awareness and research. This year’s check to the American Cancer Society totalled $14,742. The October two-day event began with a silent auction at Tavern at Towne Lake, followed by a golf tournament at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club the next day.

Vickie Baranowski and Gail Kitchens.

Tournament proceeds will help provide and fund: • Breakthrough research. • Free lodging for families during patient treatments. • Free patient rides for chemo appointments. • 24/7 cancer helplines.

Dan O'Brien and Shanlee Isch.

Founder Garry Harley.

“This event started small but the passion, energy, time and support which our community has donated is amazing,” Harley said. “I am really proud of everyone. I cannot wait until 2019 to go even bigger.” This year’s date is Oct. 12 at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. For more details, contact event director Fran Smith at 404-520-4446 or gatheringoffriendsga@gmail.com.

Rob and Rosina Jedrusik.

Above, Joe Baginski, Mark Lentchner, Rob Jedrusik, Rob Szuba. Bottom right, Mike Cowart and Dow Smith. 12

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Celebrations!

Jan. 30

Happy sixth birthday, Kayden and Kaylen! Love, Mommy, Aunty Taiya, Grandma and Grandpa, and the High family.

Maria

Layla

Jan. 10

Happy fifth birthday, Layla Bug! We love you to the moon and back. Love, Nahna, Papa Gary, RoRo and Grangran.

Happy ninth birthday, Lili Grace! Love, Daddy, Mama, Joscie, TJ and Christian.

Happy birthday, Baby. We love you and are so proud of you. Love from the Full House.

Audrey Myrick

Happy 19th birthday to our beautiful college girl! You make us so very proud! All our love, Mom and Dad.

Happy 10th birthday to our amazing daughter and granddaughter. Love, Papa, Mimi and Mommy.

Jan. 14

Happy fifth Birthday to our amazing Brandon! We love you! Love, Mommy, Daddy, Matthew, Alyssa, Nana, Mooma, Poopa and MiMi.

Jan. 11

Lydia is 5 and fabulous! We love you so much! Thank you for always keeping laughter in our home! Love, Daddy and Mommy.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Nov. 2

Marshall Reeves and Alexis Burgos got engaged in Auburn, Alabama.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com February deadline is Jan. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

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

We are pleased to report that the housing market in Cherokee County continued to show strong improvement, by most measures, in 2018. While fewer homes sold, homes sold faster and for more money. The data are showing us, though, that while we still will see some improvement in 2019, the pace of these improvements has been leveling off for resales (homes not newly constructed) in Cherokee County. Homes sold for 7.98 percent more money per square foot in 2018 than 2017. With the average single family home selling for an average of 7.81 percent more (or $22,558.79 more on average). The total days on market improved by 4.51 days, as well. Homes are taking an average of 41.42 days to sell, and closer to 35 days when priced correctly. We expect the exuberant demand for resales will continue to taper as new home construction resumes its pre-crash pace of 1,000-plus home sales per year and interest rates continue to rise. Last year, new home construction only accounted for 14.59 percent of the total

homes sold. Prior to the housing crash in 2008, more than 1 in 4 homes sold were newly constructed. In effect, this will increase the overall supply of homes and move our market out of a seller's market and into a more stable balanced market. Market conditions have not been improving lately for sellers, but should be improving for buyers as we move into a more balanced market, provided interest rates remain low.

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

New neighborhoods redefine home values, quality of life

ew opportunities are available to own a home in Lake Arrowhead, with ranch and basement floor plans, townhomes, and lakeside retreats. The gated community offers multiple amenities that include 24hour security, more than 8 miles of walking and hiking trails, pickleball, a championship golf course and 540acre, crystal-clear lake with 21 miles of shoreline, surrounded by lush mountain views. Just a few miles north of Canton, residents have easy access to the city’s restaurants, performances at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center, shopping at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta and medical services at Northside Cherokee Hospital.

Lake Arrowhead Yacht and Country Club

Property owners and guests gather to enjoy gentle mountain breezes and expansive vistas while playing the 18-hole championship Highlands Golf

Course. The challenging Highlands course was named Best Golf Course in Cherokee County by Cherokee Life magazine. The Highlands course measures more than 6,998 yards from the tips, and features large, undulating bent-grass greens; full-scale practice facilities, including a driving range; chipping greens; and putting greens. Five sets of tees range from 4,700 to 7,000 yards, to accommodate all skill levels. Course designer DJ DeVictor of Atlanta has designed golf course projects throughout the United States, St. Croix – US Virgin Islands, Mexico and Turkey. A fully stocked pro shop, PGA professional instructor clinics and a chef-inspired menu at the Highlands Grill complete the package.

Off the Course

Activities at Lake Arrowhead include outdoor concerts, drivein movies under the stars, golf tournaments, wine tastings and health and wellness classes, to name a few. The community has a lifestyle director who connects homeowners with one another, and opportunities for indoor and outdoor recreation.

Take a Tour

Johnson Development is at the helm of Lake Arrowhead development, with Atlanta-based Majestic Lifestyle Builders. Two professionally furnished model homes are open daily, showcasing commercial grade appliances, spacious open floor plans, and private outdoor covered rear patios with mountainside views.

2419 Lake Arrowhead Drive, Waleska, GA 30183 Home Tour Winter hours 10 am-5 pm Monday - Saturday and Noon to 5 pm on Sunday or by appointment

770-720- 2700 • www.lakearrowheadga.com 16

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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. 18

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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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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.

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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. 24

TOWNELAKER | 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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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? 26

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

It’s Clear: Woodstock is a Cycling City BY JENNIFER STOCKTON

Have you made a New Year’s resolution? Does your resolution include a version of getting healthier, taking better care of yourself and finding a way to de-stress? If it does, Greenprints Alliance would like to encourage you take a ride along the trail system, and maybe beyond, to explore our fabulous city. If you don’t have a bicycle, we have a few we’d like to share with you. In April 2017, we launched and currently sponsor the bike-share program operated by Zagster. We recently had an opportunity to review the data they’ve captured to see how the program has been adopted by our residents. It is clear, Woodstock loves this bike program! Since its inception, Woodstock riders, collectively, have taken 5,642 trips, ridden 20,108 miles and 2,487 of you have signed on as members, with ridership continuing to grow. That 20,000 miles is almost an entire trip around the world! That’s impressive Woodstock, especially considering the program launched with three stations and 10 bikes.

Tow

Lak eP

Main St.

575

But, more impressive than the number of trips or users, is the 1,256,750 calories you’ve burned in that time frame. You don’t have to look far to find studies that support the positive impact cycling has on our health. The benefits include everything from weight loss, disease prevention, and increased strength and flexibility, to better mental health. The other fascinating data that Zagster shared with us is that the current limitations of the trail system haven’t stopped you from continuing your ride. Our users have taken the bikes all over Towne Lake and Woodstock, including some homes in the area, various points along Highway 92; one popular stop seems to be Olde Rope Mill Park. So, as we look to expand the trail system with the city of Woodstock, we will be looking at those points along your exploratory routes. We know we are a little biased, but if this encourages you to take a ride and listen to the leaves rustling in the trees, hear the sound of rubber on the trail and feel the wind on your face, you can find a bike at one of the three stations adjacent to our current trail network. Stations are located at the trailheads at Woofstock Dog Park, the corner of Elm and Market streets adjacent to the Noonday Creek Trail, and along Arnold Mill Road near the entrance to the Rubes Creek Trail. Riders can join the program through the Zagster membership app. The first hour of the trip is free and riders must be 18 years old. Greenprints is looking into additional stations as it reviews the program with current partners. If you are interested in sponsoring this program, contact Jennifer@ greenprintsalliance.org. We hope to see you along the trail enjoying a few moments of freedom on two wheels!

92 Map shows where residents hove taken the Zagster bikes. The three blue diamonds are the bike stations. 30

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Jennifer Stockton has been a Woodstock resident since 2007. She is an avid trail supporter, board member of Greenprints Alliance since 2009, and current chair of the organization.

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM

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

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

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

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

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

Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 â&#x20AC;˘ 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

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

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*.

Feb. 28

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

May 23

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 34

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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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TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 Townelaker.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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com

RIBBON CUTTINGS 1. Woodstock Dentistry 1428 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 99, Woodstock, 678-203-2294 www.woodstockdentistryoffice.com 2. The Foundation for Hospital Art 131 Village Centre West, Woodstock 678-324-1705 www.hospitalart.org

3. Eat at River Park 1700 River Park Boulevard, Suite 103, Woodstock, 678-403-2178 www.eatatriverpark.com

4. Speedee Oil Change Tires and Auto Care, 3058 Eagle Drive, Woodstock, 770-591-1999 www.speedeeoil.com

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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TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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New Year Resolutions for Your Vehicle BY DANNY BRANOM

Start off the new year by making a resolution to take better care of your vehicle’s appearance.

Wash it often.

Yes, your car needs a bath on a regular basis. How often depends on where you drive every day. For most of us, once a week is sufficient. Washing your vehicle on a regular basis removes road grime and airborne contaminants (commonly known as acid rain), which are harmful to your vehicle’s paint finish. Washing your vehicle’s exterior and an application of a paint and glass protectant will not only keep your vehicle looking great, but will help maintain its market value.

Clean the inside, too.

Your vehicle's interior needs regular care, also. Depending on the material (cloth, leather or man-made), cleaning it will help maintain its appearance and reduce wear on areas of heavy use. Dirt is abrasive and needs to be removed on a regular basis. Don’t forget about the carpet. Adding floor mats, of any type, will significantly reduce unwanted wear spots and ugly stains. Rubber floor mats are an excellent idea and act as a shield for your carpets, especially if you find yourself having to walk in our red Georgia clay after it rains.

Don’t forget the lights.

I know you’re probably laughing, but it’s true. Most exterior lights on vehicles today are made with a form of plastic. Exposure to our strong Southern UV sunlight day after day discolors most of them. This discoloration reduces the lights’ ability to illuminate the road. You probably protect yourself with sunscreen, so protect your vehicle’s lights by cleaning them.

Scrub your tires and wheels.

Brake dust is very damaging to your wheels’ finish. If you look at brake dust composition under a microscope, you will see sharp, jagged edges. That is why it sticks to your wheels and requires a little extra effort to remove it. A word of caution: If you do this yourself, be aware that some manufacturers use a solvent in their ingredients that can be harmful to your wheels’ finish. Some owners take their vehicle to a car wash center, and others choose do it the old fashion way − by hand. No matter which method you choose, just do it!

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

• 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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A Spotlight on Community Artists Artists and creative thinkers provide their communities with more than entertainment. Through their work, they help bring people, from all walks of life, together in a way that nothing else can. Artists come in many forms: musicians, writers, actors, painters, sculptors, etc., and we hope to strengthen the community bond created by the arts by highlighting local artists from various genres.

From left: Lead guitarist Joshua Thomas, lead vocals and rhythm guitar Tanner Adams, bass guitar Stephen Ellington and drummer Christian Hudgens. 42

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Tell us a little about yourself.

“My name is Tanner Adams. I sing and play rhythm guitar in the Holly Street Band. I grew up in Acworth, going to Oak Grove Elementary and fumbling through talent shows along the way. I played my mom’s old Epiphone guitar, trying to make a chord. I remember going to a lot of folk concerts at Red Top Mountain, camping out most weekends, and just falling for the freedom of music. I have always loved the ability to get away to a place of nature. “I remember being a little kid and feeling free to sing about whatever I saw, and make up songs, even if the words didn’t make sense. It was fun. I felt alive and happy creating. For a while, the only concert venue was the amphitheater at Hobgood Park or Swayze’s Venue. Now, it seems music has breathed itself into the community. From Woodstock to Acworth, new venues are popping up to support the arts. “As I got older, music continued to be a part of my everyday existence, but I never felt good enough to put it out there. I kept trying to get the right job, create the perfect family, and build this normalized Americana image, and I was unhappy. I was unhappy because I wasn’t being true to myself, and it felt like I was swimming upstream. Eventually, the reality of how short life is hit me, and everything came together at the right moment. “I met my bandmates, and it was as if they had been walking down the same road. We practiced for about a week, and then dove in and started playing our first shows.”

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Who or what inspires you as an artist?

“I am greatly inspired by an artist named Victor Wooten. He wrote a book called ‘The Music Lesson: A Spiritual Search for Growth Through Music.’ He explains music on a different level. Not as something you can learn, like a math equation, but as a living thing that you can feel and get lost in. “Music inspires me, and helps me grow as a human. It teaches me to listen. Music moves in the most vibrant way, and can change the world. Other artists, such as the Allman Brothers, Black Sabbath, the Meters and the Grateful Dead all come to mind when thinking of inspiration.”

What are you most proud of, or what has been your biggest moment?

“The first time we ever performed as the Holly Street Band will always be one of my proudest moments. We only knew three songs at the time, and we were playing at a biker bar. We didn’t know what to expect, and I probably said some dumb, nervous things on the microphone. But, we got up onstage together, trusted each other, and we played our hearts out. It definitely sounded like a work in progress, but, afterward, a man approached me and said, ‘Boy, the second you walked in here I knew I was going to plug my ears and hate you guys,’ he paused for a second and continued, ‘but, I was wrong. I really like you guys.’ That, to me, is what music is all about, and I will always remember that moment, especially now as we prepare for our first tour.”

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What do you hope to accomplish?

“I just love playing and writing. As a band, we believe that music is something that takes you to a higher place. We hope our music can do that, and help create a place where people can leave their worries behind and have a good time. Creating music is what we love to do, and we hope to continue building on that. “As a band, we believe in supporting local music in the area. Go out and watch live music, and buy local art. I was born and raised in Acworth, so I feel a strong desire to promote the arts where I live. It brings joy and life to a community. Give love and watch it circulate.”

What’s next?

“We are currently working on our first album with some good friends from another local band called The GMOS. We are also gearing up for our January tour. We will be traveling to Birmingham, Alabama; Atlanta; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Nashville. You can catch us at Smith’s Olde Bar in Atlanta at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 10. You also can keep up with us through Instagram and Facebook: @thehollystreetband.”

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Learn More At: www.CUofGA.org | 678-486-1111

#DoYouCU TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

• 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.

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. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Some of the damage in Puerto Rico caused by Hurricane Maria.

Corp 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

Col. DeLapp presenting Rangers Randy Flint and Mark Jackson (center and right) with Commanders Coins as Charles Demko (in white) watches. 46 TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 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.

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.

Keith Hyde, from Lucky Peak Lake, Boise, Idaho, with Ranger Shana O'Rear.

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, please contact the Allatoona Lake Office at https://www. sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/AllatoonaLake or 678-721-6700. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Dentistry for Woodstock

Where ‘Patients Become Friends, and Friends Become Family’ While not many changes have been made to the physical structure, the new doctor at 1816 Eagle Drive, Building 200A, is W. Bruce Fink, DDS, a dentist who brings a full range of general and cosmetic dental treatments to Woodstock. Dr. Fink began treating patients at Dentistry for Woodstock at Fountain View, formerly Fountain View Family Dentistry, after Dr. Scott Harden left the practice in 2017. Dr. Fink provides such a wide spectrum of specialties that patients do not need to go anywhere else for treatment. He has more than 20 years of experience in the dental field. Dr. Fink received his undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas and his doctorate of dental surgery from Indiana University School of Dentistry. Dr. Fink also has invested in continuing education, including studies in bone grafting and dental implants, from teachers around the world. “I’ve been in private practice in Atlanta since graduation in 1994,” he said. “Woodstock is a great area to raise our 15-year-old daughter and pursue her golf career at the many great courses in the

area. My wife and I love working side by side in the practice. It just doesn’t seem like work when we do it together. Patients become friends and friends become family.” Dentistry for Woodstock offers general and cosmetic dental treatments to achieve a perfect smile, including teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, preventive care, family dentistry, veneers, endodontics, perio services and dental implants. Treatments also are available for TMJ (a jaw disorder) and sleep issues.

Bringing Back Smiles

“We love to help patients feel confident about their smile. There are many reasons for their insecurities. Patients have stopped smiling and we want to know why,” Dr. Fink said. Because the mouth tells a story about overall health, Dr. Fink can help patients understand oral health issues. For example, sleep issues can cause dry mouth, clenching and grinding, which can contribute to head and neck pain. Sponsored Content

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Medications also cause issues within the mouth. “We have seen a series of aha moments in our consultation rooms. There are tears when our patients realize that their oral health problems are not their fault, that, in fact, there are systemic conditions outside of their control that have brought them to this point in their dental health. They are relieved to have answers as we come alongside them to provide them the support they need,” Dr. Fink said. “We are not treating their diagnosed medical conditions, but helping them understand the factors that can contribute to their dental health. It’s not about their past dental habits, but the here now, and that is what matters.” Oral and IV sedation is available to help during office visits. “It is important to us to calm the fears of anxious patients it is also key to treating our special needs patients,” Dr. Fink said. To help with relaxation there is a water fountain in each room, and illuminated domes in each operatory add to the serene setting. Patients can enjoy a

relaxing paraffin wax treatment, drinks from the coffee bar and shows on their favorite TV channels during their visit.

Financial Help

Dr. Fink wants his patients to relax about financing as well, and he offers in-house, no-interest payment plans for more expensive treatments. Dental discount plans also are available for patients with no dental insurance. Dentistry for Woodstock can bill medical plans as well as dental plans for treatment. The office is in-network with United Healthcare Medical, Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical and

Medicare. “We see medical plans as an extra ‘wallet on the table,’ which can help to offset the cost of surgical medical treatment for our patients,” Dr. Fink said.

A Community Focus

Dentistry for Woodstock wants to be fully invested in the community and plans to sponsor a dental outreach day in the fall, offering care to residents of local shelters, and in the community. Plans are underway to offer field trips for students to learn about dental health and introduce them to the field of dentistry as a career path.

Christie Fink, Heather and Dr. Fink.

PATIENT TESTIMONIAL

“I am one of the extremely blessed people whose life has been changed forever by the kindness, compassion and expert talent of Dr. Fink and family. I will never forget being completely overwhelmed by the endless list of work that my teeth needed and the exponentially growing cost: So overwhelmed that tears just rolled down my cheeks during as my first visit with Dr. Fink. He tried to explain the situation that I was having, which was progressing much faster than I could keep up with, from an autoimmune disease. “At my first visit, Dr. Fink was confident, not fazed in the least by my multiple allergies and autoimmune illnesses, one of which was the culprit of the severe damage to my teeth. He looked me in the eye, listened to me with empathy, respect and understanding, and told me with absolute certainty that he would help and we would figure it out. I left that appointment not knowing how, but knowing that somehow something would work out. For the first time, I felt like there was hope and hope can be the greatest gift in the world when things feel hopeless. “Dr. Fink and Christie would go on to change my life with a new smile, new confidence, a future that was instantly changed from worry and uncertainty to one of happiness, hope, and the ability for me to try and pay their unbelievable generosity forward. Every single day for me is happier and healthier because of Dr. Fink!” — Forever grateful, Heather TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Protect Your Hair Against Winter Damage to a client’s specific needs and often include a massage of the head, neck and scalp, for a spa-like experience. Most of us know that the heat and sun of summer can take Another popular professional option is a hair mask treatment their toll on our hair, but did you know that winter weather under a special micro-steamer. The steam opens the hair cuticle, wreaks just as much havoc with its arsenal of storms, snow and allowing the product to penetrate and seal the hair for better cold temperatures? To rescue your strands moisture results and maximum concentration. from the winter assault, there is a wide variety can even indulge yourself by adding a Hair needs tender You of hair care treatments to repair and protect conditioning treatment to your hair color your hair through the season. Some also will formula. The results are longer-lasting vibrant loving care to help prevent hair damage in the first place. luster and softness. protect it against pigments, Heated air is not only drying to our skin, Most of us let our hair define us. We let it it is particularly hard on hair. Hats and caps dictate how we feel about ourselves. If we the extreme rank a close second in terms of ruining are having a bad hair day, chances are the conditions of hair cuticles and style. Hair needs tender rest of our day follows suit. We wear our loving care to protect it against the extreme hair everyday, and it’s our most important winter weather. conditions of winter weather. To assist during accessory. Take a moment to give it some love. the winter season, hair treatments come in And remember, hair treatments and hair masks the convenient forms of deeply penetrating oils and elixirs. should be a part of your hair routine all year long. Don’t wait for They are designed to restore hydration, elasticity, strength and the changes of the seasons to take their toll on your hair - give it luster to our hair. the attention it deserves. Although there are several at-home remedies and overthe-counter treatments, professional salons offer the most concentrated ingredients and the latest technology for all hair Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss Woodstock. Tim’s types and textures. A salon professional can choose from added industry experience includes positions as trainer/educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and boosters containing moisture, ceramides, protein and even MTV video music awards. collagen. Professional in-salon treatments can be customized BY TIM TIMMONS

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Choose flooring that will appeal to buyers.

Home Improvements That Get Top Dollar Install new flooring.

BY ELISABETH STUBBS

When your floors need to be replaced for the house to look its best and bring you the best return, look at the floors in other homes in your area. If most homes in your neighborhood have wood floors, you should install wood floors. Make them a medium brown, not shiny, and 3 ¼ inches to 5 inches wide. Don't choose what you love. Choose what will sell.

Thinking about putting your home on the market this spring? Now is the time to focus on making updates to make your house look better and sell for a higher price.

Remodel the kitchen.

A kitchen remodel may seem daunting, but you might not need to gut the whole thing and start from scratch. If the kitchen is in good shape, and just a little dated, you might be able to do a minor remodel or refresh. This can include painting cabinets, adding new hardware and plumbing fixtures, new flooring, a new backsplash, and/or new countertops. Doing most of these improvements could cost an average of $10,000 to $15,000.

Paint in neutral colors.

Update bathrooms.

Bathroom updates, like a frameless glass door, can make a big impact.

Using neutral paint colors might seem like a no-brainer, but if you ever have watched HGTV, you know that people will put some crazy colors on their walls. It seems like most bold colors are used in children's bedrooms, and that is understandable, but, while your house is on the market, Junior may need to live with a nice greige (a combination of gray and beige) for a while. When choosing a wall color, pick a cream, light beige or gray that works with your floors.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Bathroom remodels can range from around $5,000 for a simple update, to $45,000 and $50,000 for a splendid spa bath with lots of special touches. Your goal is to sell your home, so a few updates might be all you need. Retiling the shower, painting or replacing the vanity, adding new light fixtures, and maybe a new frameless glass door, will make a big difference.

Improve landscaping.

Finally, you don’t need to install a pool or an outdoor kitchen. Just make a few simple landscaping improvements that will increase the curb appeal of your home.

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Marriage Moments

Tackling Jealousy BY BILL RATLIFF

As a couple, start 2019 by tackling one of the hard issues jealousy. Jealousy is not merely a feeling. It may be present whether grounds exist for it or not. Like anger, on rare occasions, it can lead to positive actions that could protect or even save a marriage. Some couples think their relationship is strengthened by instigating some jealousy, thinking that it creates more intensive interest between them. I agree that jealousy can create intensity in a relationship, but the negatives can cause extreme side effects, such as divorce or a crime of passion. Short of those outcomes, jealousy can lead to aberrant behaviors. Take the case of Debbi Wood, who often is referred to as the world’s most jealous woman. She checks all of her fiancé’s bank statements, phone records and email. She forbids him to look at pictures of other women. She subjects him to a polygraph every time he returns from an outing. She has been diagnosed with Othello syndrome, a rare disorder that leads to extreme jealousy with no evidence of infidelity. Not only can jealousy lead to extreme behaviors and compulsive syndromes, but, worst of all, it crowds out love. The Interlinear Greek New Testament translates part of 1 Corinthians 13:4 as, “Love is not jealous …” Many years ago, my wife and I took the verse to heart, and decided not to be jealous of each other, but instead to love each other. That decision has worked for us through mutual accountability and heart intimacy. Jealousy occurs because of insecure feelings. Here is a quiz from an article titled “Are You the Jealous Type” by Dr. Pepper Schwartz to help you determine if you are jealous person. 1. I have opened his/her mail. 2. I have examined his/her phone records. 3. I have called a phone number I didn’t recognize in his/her phone log. 4. I have been rude to a person my partner could be attracted to. 5. I have started a fight when I thought my partner was flirting. 6. I think an attractive person seeks my partner. 7. Even without history of such, I worry my partner will cheat. 8. I frequently ask my partner where he/she has been. 9. I put a locator app on my phone, and check it to verify where my partner has gone. 10. I have gone through my partner’s things to look for clues of possible lying or cheating. How do you rank?

Date Your Mate

Try doing an art or craft project together to start something new in 2019.

Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

A New Approach for a New Year BY JOHN HARRIS

Well, here we go again. It’s that time of year when we all start over: new fad diets, new gym memberships and new commitments. We do this every year, and we say, “This is gonna be my year!” And we all know what happens next; by about the third week of January we are sitting on the couch with a box of doughnuts stuffing ourselves in quiet resignation, and we have given up. Does it sound familiar? Of course it does. So you may be asking, “What’s your point?” My point is, why not take a different approach this year? I’m not saying you shouldn’t try to be healthier, or that you shouldn’t try to make yourself better, but let’s take the focus off of us this year and focus on others. It would be great to be able to decrease your waistline by three inches or so. But, how much better would it be to see three lives changed because you cared. The Christian faith, as we know it, exists because God sent his son Jesus to die on the cross for our sins (the Gospel), and to give us an example to follow. We are told to follow Jesus.

So, what did Jesus do? He poured his life into men who would change the world. That example of living for others needs to resonate with us this year. As a Christ-follower I am commissioned to do the same, I am to “Go, therefore, and make disciples …” (Matthew 28:19-20). So, what should this look like? Well, it’s not that difficult. First, pray for God to open your eyes to who you can help. Approach these people, and love them, don’t look at them as projects, but genuinely love them where they are, just love them to Jesus. Meet with them regularly, walk through Scripture together and pour into them what’s been poured into you. In doing so, you might find this will be your best year ever.

John Harris is the lead pastor at New Victoria Baptist Church, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. He and his wife have a daughter and two sons. johnharris@newvicbaptist.org.

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PHOTOS BY REBEKAH GREGG

CBD Oils Offer Natural, Medicinal Benefits

our CBD Store owner Christy Davis became a believer in CBD oil when it helped relieve the anxiety she had experienced since she was a teenager. Davis no longer depends on prescription medication; she says CBD oil has changed her life. After doing extensive research and learning about the medicinal benefits of CBD, Davis decided to share her knowledge and open a store in Towne Lake. The community response has been so positive, Davis plans to open several more stores in the next year. It’s a critical time to focus on alternatives to prescription medication, she said. “With the opioid epidemic and all of the pharmaceutical side effects, people are looking for natural alternatives and that is exactly what we are offering,” Davis said.

and depression, and reduce or eliminate epileptic seizures (in some rare forms). “Even if you are not suffering from a chronic condition that impedes your ability to go about your everyday life, you can still benefit from CBD. Many use cannabidiol as they would any other natural health supplement by adding a small dose (called microdosing) to their daily routine,” Davis said. “This is a preventative regiment that has little to no downside. Our bodies naturally need anti-inflammatory substances and CBD is one of the best.

THE FACTS

• The sale of CBD from the hemp plant is legal. • You do not need a prescription to buy CBD. • The products contain zero percent THC, the cannabinoid that causes the high. • Third party testing on the products offer lab reports stating what is in the products.

Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | January 2019

This may help you stay more alert and focused throughout the day, sleep better at night, relieve minor body aches and even reduce your risk for neurological disorders that often propagate through inflammation build up in certain areas of the brain.”

WHAT’S AVAILABLE

Your CBD Store sells CBD tinctures, capsules, water solubles, topical pain cream, bath bombs, edibles and even CBD oil and treats for pets. Pets have the same endocannabinoid system as we do and suffer from some of the same ailments, including anxiety and pain. The store offers free samples of pain cream, water solubles, and dog treats. Customers can take advantage of a rewards program that gives one point for every dollar spent; points add up to redeem as discounts or free products.

TESTIMONIALS

Store owners Johnny and Christy Davis. CBD products for your pet.

THE BENEFITS

Your CBD Store carries SunMed products, the highest quality, terpene-rich CBD oil derived from industrial hemp, according to Davis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in industrial hemp plants that offers numerous medicinal benefits without the psychoactive effects or “high” associated with marijuana. CBD is used to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, reduce feelings of anxiety

2340 Towne Lake Pkwy, Ste 120B 770-627-3512 10 a.m.-6 p.m. M-F, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. www.cbdrx4u.com YourCBDWoodstock

QR code tied to chemical testing information.

“Customers rave about our products, which have helped them with arthritis pain, anxiety, insomnia and much more,” Davis said. “We have had one customer who has completely gotten off her prescription medication.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING CUISINE

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS RESERV.

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

Mexican

open

full bar

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

American

open

Chinese

$-$$

open

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

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

Homestyle Cooking

closed

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

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

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

Barbeque

$-$$

open

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

American

open

full bar

yes

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

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

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

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open full bar Brunch

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616

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

Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com

Mexican

open

full bar

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

no call ahead seating

Southern

closed

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

Pizza/Pasta

$-$$

open

beer/wine

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

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Chinese

$-$$

open

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

Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Drive American see ad on pg 35 770-592-9969 The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com

Sunday $ $$ open full bar Brunch

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

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

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

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

Asian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

WOW Pho & Grill, 6422 Bells Ferry Rd Vietnamese no $-$$ $-$$ open 678-383-6099, wowpho.com

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

coming soon

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

RESTAURANT

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

EAGLE WATCH IS CELEBRATING OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2019! Membership at Eagle Watch offers: •

Active golf community with competitive leagues for everyone

•

Weekly Family Night Dining, Prime Rib Thursdays, Friday Night Out, Sunday Brunch and more!

•

Savory cuisine offered in a relaxed yet upscale environment

•

Golf programing and other social activities just for kids

•

Full access to Bentwater Golf Club CHRIS CONNOLLY | chris.connolly@clubcorp.com | 404.960.9225

*The O.N.E. program and corresponding benefits are subject to certain restrictions and exclusions. Alcohol, service charges and applicable taxes are excluded. Participating clubs subject to change. Benefits are subject to the benefit terms and conditions, which may be found on clubcorpnetwork.com. All offers are subject to availability. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Call for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 1218 EA

Towne Lake Business Association Happy new year from the Towne Lake Business Association! We wish everyone a joyful and successful 2019! The New Year brings with it new goals and new opportunities. The TLBA helps promote business in the Towne Lake area and is looking forward to supporting the business community another year. Our monthly Lunch ‘n’ Learn features expert guest speakers and networking opportunities to help your business grow. Guests are always welcome! Or consider joining the TLBA for $75/year. Our focus on raising scholarship dollars for our area high school seniors is underway for this year. Please join us in these fundraising efforts which will include our Annual Golf Tournament in March. January Lunch 'n' Learn TOPIC: Motivate the Unmotivated SPEAKER: Matt Granados, CEO and Founder of LifePulse Inc., Author and Lifelong Student of Intentionality WHEN: Tuesday January 15, 12:15-2 p.m. WHERE: The Tavern at Towne Lake Hills East COST: $14 (includes lunch) For more information on membership and scholarships go to www.tlba.org

TLBA SPOTLIGHT Waites Law Jud Waites has been an attorney since 1992. He attended college at Wake Forest University, where he was on the Dean’s List, a defensive back for the football team, and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He attended law school at Mercer University, where he was on the Dean’s List. Waites represents clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases. He handles contract and business disputes, including collection of past due accounts and non-compete agreements. He defends clients accused of committing a crime, including DUI cases. Waites is certified to practice Jud Waites law in Georgia and Alabama. He is a member of Due West United Methodist Church and MENSA. You can contact him at 770-420-6566 or visit www.waites-law.com. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 60

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

Downtown Woodstock LIVE JAZZ PETER PONZOL QUARTET

JAN 19

8-10 PM

Progressive Jazz played by internationally renowned musicians

WWW.COPPERCOINWOODSTOCK .COM

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Around & About ELM STREET THEATER www.elmstreetarts.org

Jan. 5

5th annual Last Laugh Standup Comedy Competition at 7:30pm.

Comedians from around the Metro Atlanta area will compete for votes in this high energy competition.

Jan. 17

Brew HaHa at Reformation Brewery at 7 and 8 p.m. Belly laughs plus beer on tap with iThink Improv Troupe.

Jan. 18

iThink Improv Troupe Show at 8 p.m. Kick off 2019 with an Improv Comedy

show fit for the entire family.

Jan. 20

Fairytale Festival at 1 p.m. Free. Enjoy an afternoon filled with fairy tale characters in an event perfect for all ages. Dress up in your best fairy tale garb, enjoy tasty treats, play fun games, and watch a sneak-peek performance from the cast of “Shrek Jr.”

Jan. 31- Feb. 3

Dreamwork's "Shrek the Musical Jr." Thursday, Friday, Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday show at 2:30 p.m. Opening night reception follows the Feb. 1st show; ice cream social after final show on Feb. 3rd; story activities throughout entire run.

CHEROKEE ARTS CENTER www.cherokeearts.org

Jan. 12

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.

UPCOMING CAMPS Feb. 18-22

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.

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. 62

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

JANUARY Splish Splash Camp is at the 2-4 Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. Participants must be able to swim 25 yards unassisted. $105 per-session fee includes field trips, games and swim lessons. www.crpa.net.

One for the Chipper! 9 a.m.-1p.m. 5 Bring Old Rope Mill Park, 690 Olde Rope Mill

Park Road, Woodstock. Recycle your Christmas tree into mulch, fuel or fish habitats. The mulch will be used for public beautification projects.

Dumpster Day in Canton is 8 a.m.-noon. 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.

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 sight-reading abilities. Additional information can be found at www. cherokeechorale.org.

County Relay for Life’s first15 Cherokee 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.

FEBRUARY Through Feb. 9

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 holiday-related 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. 770-9247768. www.cherokeega.com.

& Hoses Fun Run and Walk 23 Guns starts and ends at Hobgood Park, 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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

A Focus on Forward-Thinking Policy BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

Serving in Georgia’s House of Representatives means taking part in a body that is older than the United States Congress. This body passed laws in 1776 that continue to govern us today. The laws we pass today, unless consciously changed, will govern Georgians in perpetuity. Forever. No pressure, right? Governing, at least good governing, requires a futurist’s mentality. Futurism involves imagining what the world of tomorrow will look like. In the 1960s, futurists were preaching loudly that personal computers would be present in every home. They predicted our children would be communicating with others all around the world, taking educational courses, and playing games all from the comfort of the desk in their bedroom. People called them crazy. Now, we do all of this from the phone in our pockets. The world has changed fundamentally in the course of a third of a century. Forward-thinking public policy could have helped us avoid some tremendous issues we’re facing with computers, the internet, and technology in general. Creating good public policy requires that we continue to imagine what the world of tomorrow could be. Let’s imagine, for a moment, a world where cars drive themselves. How does that simple transformation change the way we interact with our vehicles, our jobs, and our infrastructure? When cars drive themselves (which several firms now have proven they can do safely and effectively, although not yet commercially), a dramatic majority of the traffic we experience currently becomes a way of the past. Atlanta doesn’t necessarily have an infrastructure problem. Our 16-lane connector can throughput a tremendous volume of traffic. Atlanta has a human error problem. That 16-lane connector backs up when the driver in the left lane realizes he needs Exit 249-C and swerves across eight lanes. When a highway full of driverless cars are traveling 6 inches from one another at 80 mph, exiting efficiently and in conjunction with one another, long commutes disappear. The time you do spend in the car is now time spent adding value: checking email, calling family and friends, or resting and investing in things you care about. How does this technology change cityscapes? Imagine sitting in

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

a coffee shop in downtown Woodstock. What do you see through the windows? Cars and parking spaces. When your car can drop you off at the door, then drive itself to an offsite parking deck, why would we ever invest high value downtown land in parking spaces? Buildings can be set into green space. Buildings won’t be required to be tied directly to a small road or a parking space. Why own a car? Won’t Uber or Lyft realize that AI (artificial intelligence) cars provide far lower overhead than hiring drivers? At what point do those costs get passed on to consumers, and at what point will utilizing a service like that permanently become cheaper than paying for vehicle upkeep and ownership costs? Will children born today ever need to learn how to drive? Think I’m crazy? Talk to those futurists in the 1960s about personal computers. Change is coming. This is only one facet of our changing future. Privacy concerns surround smart-home devices, nanotechnology in medicine, drones and robotics advances. These changes are headed our way. Imagining and focusing on the future is part of our policymakers’ jobs, and a baseline expectation we should have of anyone in leadership, especially in government. We must establish a state where our rights are protected in times of technology paradigm change. We must ensure our government isn’t investing in horse whips in a Henry Ford era. We must create a state that accommodates technology and growth for a strong, prosperous Georgia today and tomorrow. As always, If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to call my cell at 678-523-8570 or email Michael@caldwellforhouse. com. You also can meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly.

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

Networking: Exchange of Information, Ideas Business owners have many opportunities to gather together in Cherokee County. No matter where you live or work, there likely is a group that meets nearby. We’ve compiled a list for easy reference; more business-related networking opportunities can be found on pages 90-91.

CHEROKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 www.cherokeechamber.com

Power Hour

A monthly event that’s held 10-11 a.m., offering networking with fellow business owners at the chamber board room. The cost for members is $5, future members are $10 each.

Business After Hours

Held in a different location each month, this gives business owners an afternoon opportunity to meet, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Members $5, future members $10.

CANTON Main Street Mixer

Downtown Canton business owners meet every other month at various businesses. 770-704-1548.

WOODSTOCK www.inwdstk.org

YPOW AM

Young Professionals of Woodstock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Copper Coin. inwdstk.org.

Morning INfluence

Meets on the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues or services offered that affect the community.

Main Event

Quarterly meeting takes place after business hours in various downtown Woodstock locations.

Small Town Creatives (STC)

STC is for creative professionals (designers and makers), and alternates between a morning event and an evening event every other month. The morning events are on the third Friday and the evening events are on the fourth Tuesday.

COED @ THE CIRCUIT 11 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600 www.cherokeega.org www.facebook.com/ cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment

1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC CHK)

First and third Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. First Wednesdays are held at The Circuit, third Wednesdays are held in different Cherokee County cities. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to practice their pitch skills, gain valuable feedback, or belong to a community.

The Lunch Circuit

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second Wednesdays. A monthly exclusive lunch gathering of aspiring and current entrepreneurs to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee entrepreneurs.

Woodstock WordPress Meet-Up

First and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Local WordPress developers, designers and publishers get together to share knowledge and experience, and to meet other WordPress users in the area.

Entrepreneurship 101 Book Club

Every other Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. This new meet-up is a partnership with Creative Muscle Studios.

Creative Problem Solvers Meet-Up

First and third Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m. Join an innovative, diverse community of creative problemsolvers, entrepreneurs, “want-repreneurs” and innovators dedicated to helping one another work through business challenges.

OTP and Greater Cherokee Tech Pros

Every third Thursday, 7:30-8:45 a.m. A gathering of local technology professionals.

Women Entrepreneurs Meet-Up

Every third Friday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. For aspiring and current female entrepreneurs who want to take action and hold one another accountable for stated goals. NOT a lead exchange or referral networking program. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Head coach Brian Bohannon with the OGs after a Senior Day win. Photos courtesy of KSU Athletic Communications.

KSU Finishes Historic 2018 Season perfect 5-0 in league play. The Owls went on to claim the No. 4 seed in the FCS playoffs after a thrilling 60-52 win over The 2018 football season was one for the record books for then-No. 6 Jacksonville State in five overtimes at SunTrust Kennesaw State University. The young program reached the Park, the first football game played at the home of the Football Championship Series (FCS) quarterfinals for the second Atlanta Braves. straight year, claimed back-to-back Big South championship Seeded fourth in the FCS playoffs, the Owls received a titles, dominated conference postseason first-round bye and hosted Wofford in the awards and said goodbye to the OGs. second round, claiming a 13-10 victory to Kennesaw State head coach Brian advance in the playoffs. Bohannon affectionately referred to the first Kennesaw State returned to the FCS Owl recruiting class as the Original Gangsters, quarterfinals Dec. 8, taking on South or OGs. The first signing class spent an entire Dakota State, the second top-five ranked year just practicing, not playing a single down team KSU has faced, and the first at Fifth until the second year on campus. Five years Third Bank Stadium. The Owls knocked off after the first team workout on Aug. 19, 2014, then-No. 3 Jacksonville State on the road there are 18 OGs left. last year in the playoffs. “They came here on a whim and a prayer The 27-17 loss to South Dakota State and a vision and a belief of something ended KSU’s historic season, and the they couldn’t see, couldn’t touch, couldn’t 18 OGs’ collegiate careers, but the Head coach Brian Bohannon during the feel and they made it happen,” Bohannon foundation laid by these student-athletes FCS quarterfinal game against South said. “They laid bricks. They did things never will be forgotten. Dakota State. that people normally wouldn’t do to lay a “We’ll look back at this group in 20 years foundation for something that, hopefully, we’ll continue to build and see the groundwork we laid and the culture we helped create,” on, from program standpoint. I can’t thank them enough.” said quarterback Chandler Burks, the first KSU football signee. The OGs have an overall 37-12 record and posted two Since 2008, Kennesaw State’s 37 victories in its first four consecutive 11-win seasons. Accomplishments continued to seasons are second among all NCAA Division I startups, second pour in this season, as KSU captured its second straight Big only to Old Dominion (38). KSU is the only team in its first four South title, with a 51-14 win at Monmouth Nov. 10, going a years to put together two separate 10-game winning streaks. BY KATIE BEALL

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

NATIONAL AWARDS WATCH LISTS/TEAMS Chandler Burks (Gr., QB) Walter Payton Award Finalist * Nation’s best offensive player CFPA National Performer of the Year * Nation’s best player Anthony Gore (Sr., LB) Buck Buchanan Award Finalist * Nation’s best defensive player Justin Thompson (Sr., PK) Fred Mitchell Award ^ Nation’s best placekicker Brian Bohannon (head coach) Eddie Robinson Coaches Award Finalist

QB Chandler Burks during the quarterfinal game against South Dakota State.

*Winners not released at press time. ^Winner announced Dec. 10 - Roldan Alcobendas, Eastern Washington

ALL-BIG SOUTH First Team Offense QB Chandler Burks RB Darnell Holland WR Justin Sumpter OL C.J. Collins OL Joseph Alexander Jr. OL Chiaza Nwadike Defense DL Desmond Johnson Jr. DL Andrew Butcher LB Bryson Armstrong LB Anthony Gore Jr. DB Dorian Walker

KSU student section cheering on the Owls at SunTrust Park Nov. 17.

“This has been one heck of a ride. While I will miss putting on the pads and running through that tunnel, I’ll miss my teammates and coaches more.” – CJ Collins, OL

Special Teams LS Drew McCracken KR Isaac Foster

Second Team

Offense RB Shaquil Terry

Defense DL McKenzie Billingslea LB Charlie Patrick DB Jace White Special Teams K Justin Thompson PR Isaac Foster

Woodstock native and offensive lineman CJ Collins arriving at Fifth Third Bank Stadium for FCS quarterfinal game. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

@ the Library

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

WOODSTOCK

ROSE CREEK

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

4476 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock • 770-591-1491

Jan. 12, 26

Jan. 2

Inklings Writers Critique Group at 11 a.m. Love to

write, but need feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas and feedback are invited to attend.

Kids Spa Day at 3 p.m. Keep calm and take a spa day to celebrate the new year. Make your own facial mask, lip gloss and body scrub. For ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by a participating adult. Registration is required.

Jan. 15

Jan. 10

conversation, and a book discussion with new friends. This month’s title is “Still Life” by Louise Penny. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.

wonders of science! Listen to stories and conduct simple experiments. For grades K-5; children 8 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.

Book Discussion Group at noon. Enjoy coffee,

Jan. 20

Curious Kids Science Club at 4:30 p.m. Help your kids discover the

Jan. 12

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.

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.

Project Pinterest at 3 p.m. Explore Pinterest-inspired

Jan. 23

Jan. 22

15-minute slot to read or chat with a senior. Pals must be 6 or older to participate.

6-12 are invited.

Jan. 25

creative projects.

Build a Pillow Fluff Snowman at 6 p.m. Teens in grades

Jan. 28

Toddler STEAM: Busy Bags at 10:30. Have fun creating busy bags during this toddler STEAM program. Busy bags are engaging activity kits that entertain and teach your child new skills, such as color-sorting and hand-eye coordination.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Pals and Pages at 3:30 p.m. Seniors love stories, too! Sign up for a

Lunch & Learn: eBooks at 11:15 a.m. Tired of paying for eBooks? Love to read, but can’t always make it to the library? Bring your lunch, relax, and find out all about the library’s free eBook resources.

Jan. 31

Lego Robotics Club at 6 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join in on some Lego fun. Take apart, re-build and program Lego Mindstorm robots.

HICKORY FLAT 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565

Jan. 5

Lego Club at 2 p.m. There is 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.

Jan. 7

Teens Try Not to Laugh Challenge at 6 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

Stay Healthy Naturally Thru Winter at 6:30. Learn all-natural tips for staying healthy all through winter.

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/animeinspired group games.

Jan. 16

Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get 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 action-packed hour.

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 anti-pill 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. Left, Santa Claus poses with the Bascomb Elementary School chorus during the Rose Creek Public Library’s Holiday Open House event.

Librarians Kara and Victoria assist visitors with the library’s virtual reality headsets at R.T. Jones Memorial Library.

R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton • 770-479-3090

Jan. 5

Estate Management Planning Strategies at noon. Are you prepared to be an

executor? Have you prepared your executor? Learn the benefits of planning ahead and preparing executors to handle their duties with confidence and ease.

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. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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. 72

TOWNELAKER | 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.

THE IMPACT IN COBB Information shared at a Nov. 26 Cobb Board of Commissioners meeting outlines the effect of the Super Bowl on Cobb County International Airport — McCollum Field.

• The Federal Aviation Administration projects 1,100 aircraft parking are spaces 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).

• For the first time in Super Bowl history, the three largest charter jet companies in the country will operate out of the same airport (Netjets, Flexjet and Wheels Up).

• Hiring 50-60 additional fixed-base operator employees.

• Cobb has 22 air slots for Monday departures,

more than any other airport in metro Atlanta. There are only 103 slots available in the metro Atlanta airspace at any given time. Flights are scheduled to take off less than 3 minutes apart. According to the FAA reservation system, Cobb has flights scheduled every 2.75 minutes, based on possible poor weather conditions. If weather conditions are good, Cobb could operate faster.

“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. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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!

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS

Volleyball Player of the Year Savannah Bray, a junior at Etowah High School, has been named the 2018 Cherokee County Volleyball Player of the Year. In the 2018 season, Bray also was named All Region Co-Player of the Year and an All State player. Bray also works hard off the court, and has received several academic honors this school year. She maintains a 3.3 GPA, and while she is only halfway through her junior year, she is already contemplating her choices for college. Currently, her top choices are Princeton, Duke and the University of South Carolina. Volleyball has allowed Bray to do some international traveling, as well. Last year, she went to Italy to play with A5’s international team, and this year they went to Japan, where they spent 10 days. Above, last year Bray had the opportunity to travel to Italy and visit Milan, Lake Como, Florence, Naples, Pompeii and Rome. Florence was her favorite, but the gelato was the best part she said. “I could have stayed forever.” Left, this year she experienced Japan, where she had the opportunity to play and train with some of the best high school and college teams in Japan. They visited the Osaka Castle and the Fushimi Shrine while touring Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. Brays said her favorite part of the experience was getting the chance to see the Japanese culture.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Members of Woodstock Middle School's Friends Club.

Experience the Challenge Friends Club members are the students that create and run ETC, so every student in the school can learn about each We are all born different. You could have brown hair and otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s differences and become more understanding. blue eyes, or red hair and brown eyes. Maybe you are taller Experience the Challenge is where students, instead than others, or perhaps you run fast or slow. You could of going to gym for one day, get to experience what it is be born with autism or be vision impaired. You could be like to complete tasks when you have a disability. The five blind or deaf, or only have one arm or leg. Even though we disabilities demonstrated are: autism, physical disability, vision are born different, it does not mean we should be treated impairment, hearing impairment and intellectual disability. differently. Respect and kindness should be shown to Students are split into groups and assigned a disability, and everyone, no matter who have to complete specific they are. challenges with that At Woodstock Middle disability. For example, School, we embrace vision is impaired using our peers' differences special goggles and and even show what hearing is reduced it is like to have these with headphones. To differences. We do this demonstrate autism, through a special event students have to write called Experience the a summary of their day Challenge (ETC). while other students try We have an elective to distract them by any class called Friends Club, means possible. One where club members get of the most popular to go into the classes of challenges is getting students with special through a closed door needs. They get to help in a wheelchair without teach, play with, and using your feet or befriend peers they may slamming the door have never gotten to (which is a difficult task). know because they were The whole point of Students learn that everyday tasks become more difficult when you have a in separate classrooms. ETC is to show students disability. BY BRYCE JONES

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Hearing impairment was one of the disabilities students were able to experience.

The wheelchair challenge was one of the most popular and difficult.

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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have abilities, too.

Bryce Jones is a seventh-grader at Woodstock Middle School and a member of the Friends Club.

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Working to Keep the Community Warm Students at Woodstock Elementary School are collecting gently used and new coats and blankets for people of all ages. The school’s goal is to provide coats and blankets to children and adults in the community who need warmth during the cold winter months.

Kamryn Brown

Coloring Contest Winner Woodstock Elementary School first-grader Kamryn Brown won the Cherokee County Farm Bureau’s First Grade Apple Coloring Contest. All Cherokee County School District elementary schools participated, with more than 3,000 entries received. Each school’s first- and second-place winners and their families have been invited for a Day on the Farm in May at Cagle’s Family Farm. Kamryn also received a $50 Walmart gift card. She and her family were invited to the Cherokee County Farm Bureau annual meeting; her award-winning picture was featured on the back cover of the program.

Students, from left, Sawyer Swift, Peyton Long, Elsie Hallman and Chloe Tate put out bins for donations.

Georgia Farm Bureau Foundation Offering $58,000 in Scholarships The Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Foundation for Agriculture is offering $58,000 in scholarships to Georgia students pursuing a degree in agriculture, veterinary medicine, family and consumer sciences, or a related field. Since 1959, GFB has awarded scholarships to students entering college with plans to pursue a career in agriculture or family and consumer sciences. In 2016, the GFB Foundation expanded the scholarship program to offer scholarships to rising college juniors and seniors, technical college students and veterinary college students. Cherokee County Farm Bureau will award $1,075 college scholarships to two high school seniors in Cherokee County who are pursuing an agriculture degree. The deadline to apply for all the scholarships is March 1. Visit www.gfb.ag/19scholarships for more details.

Brain Brawl Winners Advance The Woodstock High School Navy Junior ROTC Academic Team won the North Cobb Area 12 Brain Brawl, qualifying them for the area championship in March. Team members are, from left: Ansley Reed-Triola, Anna Fournaris, Ben Ziemecki, Harrison Provost, Noah Myers and Sebastian Escamilla. Their coach is teacher Lt. Mark Fagan. 80

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS

Learning Comes to Life Teachers at E.T. Booth Middle are part of a school district collaboration to create Rigorous Curriculum Design (RCD) lesson plans, with a focus on engaging scenarios that help learning “come to life” for students. They recently created a criminal justice lesson by dressing as police officers and creating a crime scene in one of the classrooms. Pictured are teachers, from left: Amy Loiselle, Kim Dye and Regina Crawford.

From left: Josh Sailers and team members Malachi Brewer, Andrew Brandenburg, Michael Rehman and Matthew Garcia.

State Champions in Economics A team of four seniors from Woodstock High School won first place statewide in the Georgia Council of Economic Education’s Georgia Personal Finance Challenge. They will compete nationally in May. To win the challenge, team members were tasked with using a case study to create different viable methods to improve a family’s personal finances. They are coached by teacher, Josh Sailers, who last school year was named Georgia’s top economics teacher by the Georgia Council of Economic Education. The team will be recognized at an Atlanta Braves baseball game in April and by the Cherokee County School Board and superintendent of schools at the board’s Jan. 17 meeting.

Academics and Character at the Heart of Award

Farm Bureau Seeks Entries For Essay Contest

Boston Elementary School has been named a 2018-19 National Beta School of Distinction. The award recognizes schools with Beta or Junior Beta Clubs that are growing and showing outstanding academic achievement, exemplary character, demonstrated leadership and service to others. Fifth-grade teachers Margaret Tippins and Susan Stringfellow co-sponsor the school’s Junior Beta Club. “We find it such an honor to receive the award of National Beta School of Distinction,” Tippins said. “It speaks volumes of how our school works together to improve academic performance and character development in our students.”

Cherokee County Farm Bureau encourages middle school students in sixth, seventh and eighth grades to enter the 2019 Georgia Farm Bureau Middle School Essay Contest. The contest is open to students attending public or private schools, and homeschool. Students may enter in the county in which they live or attend school, but not both. Students should address the question, “What would happen if there were no farmers or ranchers?” The purpose is to encourage students to study Georgia agriculture, learn how their food is grown, and the contributions farming makes to our everyday lives. Prizes will be awarded to county and school winners. Contact the Cherokee County Farm Bureau at 770-479-1481 Ext. 0 for an official title sheet and contest rules. Entries are due to the Cherokee Farm Bureau office by Feb. 15. The county winner will be entered in the Georgia Farm Bureau District 1 competition. The district winner will receive a cash prize of $100. The 10 district winners will compete for the state prize of $150 cash. Previous state winners are not eligible.

Members of Boston’s Junior Beta Club. 82

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com Century House Tavern Modern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com see ad on Inside front, 61

$$$

open

Full bar

8 persons +

open

Full bar

Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $ 9550 Main St. Brunch 678-498-8243 11-1:30 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com

$-$$

open

Full bar

yes

open

Full bar

yes

open

Full bar

J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no 315 Chambers St., 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer 150 Towne Lake Parkway Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios Southern no $-$$ $$-$$$$ open Full bar 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com Partners II Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga

$$-$$$

open

Beer/Wine

Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 Brunch puretaqueria.com/woodstock 11-3

open

Full bar

6 persons+

Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 Brunch reel-seafood.com 10:30-3:30

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

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

Pizza

Weekends only

Wine bar Tapas

Sun Brunch 11:30 3

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

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

Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-3

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com

American

open

Full bar

English Tea room

closed

yes

Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

Sunday Brunch 10-2

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

Fire Stone Wood-fired Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill Brunch 11-3 770-926-6778 see ad on pg 25 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com 10:30-3

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.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET

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.

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 TOWNELAKER | January 2019

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN NOVEMBER

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 88

TOWNELAKER | 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. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

REFERENCE

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Thursdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org.

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

Male Veteran Support Group meets 6:30-8 p.m.

Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Light snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

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

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

Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop.

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

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

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514.

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

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. 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 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com.

Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net.

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com.

South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522.

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.

Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336.

Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat.

Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org.

Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org.

Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958.

Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com.

Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com.

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS

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

William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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 Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 TOWNELAKER | January 2019

Advertisers

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

January 2019

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.AnimalAtlanta.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Towne Lake Pet Care 404-907-9778

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

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

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

Papaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.PapasPantry.org

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

COMPUTERS Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900 www.ccrguys.com

CREDIT UNION

Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.ChloesAutoRepair.com

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

Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org

DENTAL

Joe's Automotive 770-517-2695

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY SALON & SPA 7

Polish Nails Spa 678-324-1500

Salon Gloss 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz 94 TOWNELAKER | January 2019

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

Dentistry for Woodstock Cover, 1, 48, 49 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

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

Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING Furtah Preparatory School 678-574-6488 www.furtahprep.org

Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830 www.givingcareathome.com

St. Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org

FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com Graham Bailey Edward Jones 678-445-9525 ww.edwardjones.com Treasure Tax 678-888-4829 www.treasuretax.com

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)

Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 77 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com

1922 Men's Grooming Salon 678-483-8900

INWDSTK wdstk.ga/2019sotc

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 33 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

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

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS CBD American Shaman of Woodstock 73 833-OIL-HOPE www.CBDWoodstock.com IVMD Hydration & Wellness www.ivmdsolutions.com

Your CBD Store 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com

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

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

Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.BudgetBlinds.com/Woodstock

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

ClearView window cleaning & pressure washing 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

PHOTOGRAPHY 67

Rebekah Gregg Photography 81 678-637-7518 www.rebekahgreggphotography.com PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Atlanta North Dermatology & Skin Care 770-516-5199 www.atlantanorthdermatology.com Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

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

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

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

Northside Hospital Cherokee 11 www.Northside.com/Cherokee-Sports

L. Bean Interiors 770-824-8386

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 40 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

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

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Atlanta Communities, Tara Daigle 404-925-6351

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

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

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

Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

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

Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

INSURANCE State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net

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

Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller 64 O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com

Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-500-8099 www.SolielLaurelCanyon.com

Windsong Properties, Grace 770-516-3678 www.WindsongLife.com

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT Cruise Planners, Kathy Faisal 678-445-5235

Eagle Watch Golf Club 404-960-9225 gary.weller@clubcorp.com

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

Etowah Eagles Tip Off Club www.etowaheaglesbasketball.com

Father Daughter Dance www.etowahgirlslacrosse.com

Georgia All-Star Gymnastics 770-516-2654 www.ga-allstars.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD Copper Coin Coffee Inside front, 61 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 www.FireStoneRestaurants.com

Menchie's Towne Lake 770-924-4016

Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910 smallcakeswoodstock.myshopify.com Tavern at Towne Lake 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 73 770-485-5898 www.TheNeighborhoodNestGA.com Urban Renewal 678-398-7691 www.urcwoodstock

SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES

Lake Arrowhead 770-720-2700 www.lakearrowheadga.com

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

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com

Serenity 67 770-592-2404 www.TreetopResidential.com TOWNELAKER | January 2019 95

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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

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TOWNELAKER | January 2019