1-23 Around Kennesaw webfinal.pdf

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Around Kennesaw

Kudos

Cobb Community Foundation (CCF) presented Shelley Elder with the 2022 James L. Rhoden Jr. Award for Visionary Philanthropy at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s Monday Marquee meeting last month. The award — created for CCF’s 10th anniversary in December 2003 to honor founder Jim Rhoden — recognizes a Cobb business and community leader who makes significant contributions to the community through gifts of time, talent and treasure. Elder donates 25% of her gross income to charitable causes and serves on the boards of the YMCA, LiveSafe Resources, The Extension, Cobb County Schools Foundation, Kennesaw Public Safety Foundation, North Cobb Rotary, Town Center Alliance and Kennesaw Business Association. She is a partner at Crane Elder Law Firm, where she works with her son, Stephen.

Shelley Elder, left, and CCF President and CEO Shari Martin.

Congratulations to Dwight “Ike” Reighard on being named the 2022 Marietta Citizen of the Year last month by the Cobb Chamber’s Marietta Area Council. The award honors an individual whose impact on the community through the years defines him or her as a role model. Reighard is the senior pastor of Piedmont Church and president and CEO of MUST Ministries, which serves nearly 60,000 people in need each year. Since joining MUST in 2011, he has led the organization through such milestone projects as opening the MUST Hope House — one of the country’s most unique homeless shelters — and launching the MUST Mobile Pantry, which will serve nearly 17,000 families in its first year.

Reighard honored for community impact.

Letter From the Editor

When the last Christmas cookies are eaten and the decorations are packed away for another year, we turn our attention to improvements we want to make or things we want to accomplish in the new year. It’s like starting with a blank slate, and it’s up to us to figure out what to write on that slate that will make our lives better than they were the year before. Like David Campbell (Page 22), I’ve adopted the philosophy of not making New Year’s resolutions because merely tacking the word “resolution” onto my desires for change is a surefire way to doom anything to failure. Now I simply make a list — sometimes on paper, sometimes just in my head — of what I would like to achieve during the next 12 months.

I haven’t thought much about my goals for 2023 yet, but one thing I know I have to do is improve my eating, exercise and sleep habits for health reasons. They have gotten totally out of control. I have to come to terms with the fact you can’t eat whatever you want and not exercise and still expect to maintain a healthy lifestyle. And somehow, I have to reset my internal clock to have a desire to go to bed before 3 a.m. I think those late-night hours hearken back to my last job and the

sometimes-insane deadlines we had. So that’s goal No. 1.

I’d also like to get back to knocking things off my bucket list. Yes, I have an actual list of things I’d like to do before I die, written on actual legalpad paper with an actual pen. I was doing a great job of marking off my desires of the heart until a few years ago, when circumstances forced me to put it on the back burner. Many of my dreams involve traveling. I’ve done a lot, but there’s still so many places I want to go — an Alaskan cruise, the Caribbean islands and 17 states I haven’t visited, England, Israel, Italy, Tahiti, Fiji. I hear that’s what retired people do, so that’s my later-in-life goal. But who knows, maybe this is the year I finally get to ride in a hotair balloon or watch a Braves game from a suite or see the northern lights.

To make some plans of your own in 2023, check out Year at a Glance (Pages 16-17) for a list of local events scheduled for the next 12 months. And if you’re planning a wedding this year, don’t miss our Best for Bridal contest winners on Pages 14-15. Finally, bring closure to 2022 by viewing the photos of the Kennesaw Christmas Parade on Pages 36-37.

Happy New Year, and happy reading!

America’s

Volume 2, Issue 5

PUBLISHER

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

PRESIDENT

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COPY EDITORS

Bill King, Eliza Somers

Around Kennesaw, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a community magazine with 17,000 free copies distributed monthly. Approximately 16,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 400 are placed in racks in the community.

Around Kennesaw welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month.

Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Kennesaw, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims to the validity

of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses.

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 2023.

Donna Harris is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She’s a Cobb County native and a veteran journalist with newspaper and magazine experience. Email her at donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Donna Harris

A Word From Mayor Derek Easterling

Hello, Kennesaw! We made it through another great year and ended it with a most successful Christmas season.

Welcome to 2023, and I pray the new year finds you and your family doing well and thriving in this place we call home.

When we talk about events and things to do in Kennesaw, we have much to talk about and look forward to this year. We once again will host the successful Kennesaw Grand Prix 5K Race Series, three or four downtown festivals, the downtown concert series (third year) and the Main Street Scarecrow Contest (fourth year). We also will have the Depot Park Amphitheater groundbreaking ceremony, numerous grand openings and, quite possibly, something new and different in the city, leaving no time to rest.

Starting off the events calendar in January, we have: Trains, Trains, Trains! The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History is excited to announce the return of its biggest, most popular event of the year — Trains, Trains, Trains! — Jan. 2829. The 2023 event will feature the museum’s biggest model train display to date, along with train-themed activities and historic trains.

The Book Swap. The Book Swap, 8-11 a.m. Jan 14, is a free media swap hosted by Kennesaw Parks & Recreation at the Ben Robertson Community Center. On our drop-off days (noon-8 p.m. Jan. 1213), area residents can exchange gently used books, CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, etc. for tickets. Each item is worth one ticket. On swap day, those who dropped

off items can redeem their tickets for items brought by others. Items will be organized into the following categories: fiction, children, teen, nonfiction, DVDs and CDs/vinyl. The swap is free; items cannot be purchased with money. Anything left at the end of the swap will be donated.

Thinking About Kennesaw in 2023

As you navigate your way through each day of working to provide for you and your family, I want you to take a minute or two to think about your city. In particular, I want you to think about three words: opportunity, appreciation and awareness. Now, I want you to think about how life has changed and progressed. I want you to recognize what role you play or have played in shaping the future of our city. When we share in the successes of our city and when we understand how each of us fits into the equation of creating this success, we are much more likely to achieve greater success and to weather the storms or challenges in front of us.

The opportunities provided to live, work and play here to achieve our greatest success are based on an appreciation and an awareness of not only what surrounds us, but who is around us and their needs. It is an awareness that leads to understanding or empathy and service.

My prayer this year is for you and your family to find great reward in serving each other and your community. Be blessed!

Derek Easterling has served as Kennesaw’s mayor since 2016. He is dedicated to serving his community to the highest level possible.

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com

February deadline is Jan. 10. Please specify Around Kennesaw. Word limit: 25.

Bennett and Brittany

The Asiedu Family

Erskine and Audrey’s 11th anniversary on Jan. 1. Audrey’s 36th birthday on Jan. 14. Zamira’s fifth birthday on Jan. 20.

Sara and Ema Takahashi

Sara, age 5 on Jan 14; Ema, age 3 on Jan. 9. Happy Birthday! We love you so much! Mom and Dad

Jack Happy birthday! We love you! Estella, Justina and Kennedy

The Flanagan Family Happy adoption day, Liam, Lydia, Landon and Leilani!

Happy seventh birthday to Bennett and 35th birthday to Brittany Blumenthal! We love you both so big!

Eric (Daddy), Cam, Andi and Evie

You Can’t Win It If You’re Not In It

BY BILL WESTENBERGER

Happy New Year! As we approach the end of pro and college football bowls and playoffs, wins and losses expose the difference between a champion and just another team. No matter the outcomes, the definitions of a win can become relative to the team. A win could be defined simply as the unexpected participation in the championship game. One thing we do know is, if you are not participating, you’re definitely not winning. Life is not much different than a sporting event. If you’re not in it, you can’t win it.

The close of one year and the beginning of another give us the chance to reflect on setting new goals. Our Kennesaw Police Department team definitely has secured many wins in 2022. Our opportunities to fight crime with technology are becoming greater daily. Our crime analyst is able to find suspects in new, efficient and effective ways. Our partnerships with neighboring law enforcement agencies, along with technological advances, have proved to be successful combinations. We are excited to build off this new foundation for greater impact.

Training for our team continues to provide big wins. Our staff is being exposed to and challenged with new concepts in training and growth. I frequently comment that competency and confidence create a solid base for keeping our team and community safer in what can be very dangerous situations.

Finally, we continue to broaden

our horizons in community engagement. More opportunities are emerging routinely. We still maintain our department programs and events, like the Jerry Worthan Memorial Christmas Fund, but I have been recognizing more situations where our staff members have developed their own engagement challenges. Some are on a huge scale; others are small and simple. But all have a positive impact on our community and beyond.

Unlike sports, there are no finish lines or scoreboards in the game of life. Winning is an uncomplicated

concept — just be in the game. Simply engage with your family, church and community.

I encourage you to continue finding ways to engage. Thank you for jumping out of the bleachers and into the game. We’ve all heard the saying, “It’s better to give than to receive.” We help create a safer community when our focus centers on serving others. Even if your favorite teams lose the championship this season, we all win when we join together with our individual strengths to serve the community. Go team!

Until next time, stay safe.

Bill Westenberger has served as chief since 2008. He was given the 2019 Kennesaw Citizen of the Year Award.

Summer Arts Intensives

Department of Dance*

June 5-9 | Day - $295 | Overnight - $580

Department of Theatre & Performance Studies*

June 5-9 | Day - $295 | Overnight - $580

Acting | Musical Theatre | Design/Tech

Bailey School of Music*

Strings | Choral/Voice June 5-9 | Day - $295 | Overnight

Trumpet | May 31-June 2 | 1-5 p.m. Percussion | May 31-June 2 | 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | $125

School of Art & Design

June 5-9 | Day - $295 Visual

New this year is our option for OVERNIGHT! Stay overnight on the Kennesaw campus and experience what it might be like to major in the arts at KSU. Enjoy meals at the award-winning Commons and get to know other high school students who are passionate about the arts.*

What a Year It Was!

With 2022 in the rearview mirror, let’s take a look at some of the highlights in Kennesaw during the past 12 months.

January

Returning City Councilman Pat Ferris and new City Councilmen Antonio Jones and Trey Sinclair took their oaths of office.

The city celebrated the new recreation center at Adams Park at an open house. Guests were able to play basketball, volleyball and pickleball in the gyms, attend classes, walk the track and enjoy snacks and giveaways.

March

The American Camellia Society recognized Smith-Gilbert Gardens’ Paladino Camellia Garden as a destination garden on the Camellia Trail for its notable collection of 94 plants and its recently certified camellia cultivar. This national honor included a trail marker and a certificate.

April

The Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History celebrated its 50th anniversary with a month of special events, including a chance to join the museum for free on April 12 — its opening day in 1972. The date of the opening coincided with the anniversary of the Great Locomotive Chase, which occurred on April 12, 1862.

May

City officials launched place branding for downtown Kennesaw to help establish the area as a standalone destination. The logo’s colorful background accentuates the variety available, with a subtle nod to Kennesaw Mountain and Little Kennesaw Mountain as the backdrop of the city. Two custom typefaces blend the character of a historic district with a modern feel.

June

Three community leaders were given the inaugural Follow the Leader award, which recognizes local leaders who made a difference in the city. The first recipients were Allison Giddens, founder of the Dave Krache Foundation; Rod Green, co-pastor of One Church in Marietta; and Ann Pratt, a driving force behind the inclusive playground at Swift-Cantrell Park.

September

The city celebrated the 135th anniversary of its incorporation on Sept. 21, 1887. A petition for incorporation was approved by the Legislature, and the Articles of Incorporation stated: The town’s corporate limits shall extend onehalf mile north, south, east and west from the Western and Atlantic Railroad depot; there shall be an election of a mayor and four councilmen; the mayor shall have the power to levy and collect taxes; and nothing in this act shall give the town authorities the right to grant license to sell intoxicating liquors.

October

Brittany Jones was hired as the executive director of Smith-Gilbert Gardens. The Florida native has a decade of experience, working for various parks, museums and gardens. She has a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from Florida International University and a master’s degree in nonprofit administration from the University of San Francisco.

The parks and recreation department was awarded the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s (GRPA) District 5 Award for Class A Agency of the Year, and three staff members also were honored: Park Maintenance Supervisor Rolando Pardo, Outstanding Facilities and Grounds Maintenance Award; Laura Woolsey, Administrative Assistant Award; and Director Steve Roberts, Distinguished Professional Award.

December

New City Councilwoman Lynette Burnette was sworn in as the Post 1 representative.

Top from left, Mayor Derek Easterling with Follow the Leader winners Rod Green, Ann Pratt and Donna Krache, representing her daughter, Allison Giddens. Above left, Smith-Gilbert Gardens’ Camellia Trail sign. Above right, Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s District 5 winners, from left, Steve Roberts, Rolando Pardo and Laura Woolsey.

BRI DAL BEST FOR 2023 CONGRATULATIONS to the WINNERS!

In our quest to help couples prepare for their weddings and to support local businesses, Aroundabout Local Media launched its first Best for Bridal contest in October — which we understand is the new June in the wedding world. Check out the winners on these pages and on our website: www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com. We hope this list helps you prepare for your big day.

While we’re talking weddings, we’d love to help you celebrate this milestone by sharing your engagement stories. If your story is chosen for a future feature in our magazines, you will be entered to win a prize. Just scan the QR code to open our engagement story form, where you can write your story and upload photos, or email edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com and put Best for Bridal in the subject line. Be sure to let us know how we can contact you.

P BAKERY

Winner: Shannon Turner Cakes, Acworth Second Place: Cakehouse on Main, Acworth Runner-up: Cakes by Anna, Woodstock

P BEAUTY (HAIR & MAKEUP)

Winner: B. Wild Hair and Makeup, Roswell Second Place: A Glamour Affair, Marietta Runner-up: Three-13 Salon, Spa & Boutique, Marietta

P BRIDAL SHOP

Winner: Anna Christine Bridal, Canton Second Place: A Formal Occasion, Kennesaw Runner-up: Bravura Fashion, Marietta

P CATERING

Winner: Zeigler's BBQ & Catering, Acworth Second Place (tied): - Big Girls Catering & Events, Acworth - Prestige Catering, Canton - Talk of the Town, Roswell

P CINEMA/VIDEOGRAPHY

Winner: Keystone Production Network, Acworth Second Place: Tiffany Greeson Photography, Calhoun Runner-up (tied): - Burns Videography, Acworth - NE Studios, Acworth

P DECOR

Winner: Rosely Events, Cherokee County Second Place: The Prissy Plate Co., Cartersville Runner-up (tied): - A Peachy Keen Wedding, Marietta - House of Bash, Alpharetta

P ENTERTAINMENT (DJ & BAND)

Winner: DJ Ray’s Entertainment, Woodstock Second Place: DJ Dano North Georgia Entertainment, Marietta Runner-up (tied): - Club Rett DJ & Photobooth Services, Marietta - Pirone Entertainment — North GA Wedding DJ, Woodstock

P FAVORS

Winner: Signature Keepsakes, Acworth Second Place: Designs on Main, Jasper

P

FLORIST

Winner: Wedding Wishes by Wanda, Woodstock

Second Place (tied):

- Canton Florist, Canton

- Faith Designs Florist, Kennesaw

- South Canton Florist, Canton

- West End Florist, Rome

P PHOTOGRAPHY

Winner (tied):

- 24/7 Digital Media Productions, Acworth

- Harlow’s Photography + Film, Ball Ground

Runner-up: Kristin Faye Photography, Cartersville

P PLANNER

Winner (tied):

- Kristina Eaton Signature Weddings, Acworth

- Rosely Events, Cherokee County

Runner-up: Natalie Durham Events, Canton

P STATIONERY

Winner: C’est La Vie Stationery, Kennesaw

Second Place (tied): - Inkwell Designers, Woodstock

- Sugar and Spice Invitations, Waleska

P TRANSPORTATION

Winner: RIS Limousine & Transportation, Ball Ground

Second Place (tied): - Atlanta Party Bus, Kennesaw

- Top Hat Limousine, Woodstock

P TUXEDO SHOP

Winner (tied):

- Little River Clothing, Woodstock

- Savvi Formalwear, Marietta

Runner-up: A Formal Affair, Roswell

P VENUE

Winner: The Cowan Historic Mill, Acworth

Second Place: Lewallen Farms, Waleska

Runner-up: Ivy & Oak Weddings, Talking Rock

JANUARY

Jan. 5: School resumes after holidays, Cobb County Schools

Jan. 14: Book Swap, Kennesaw

Jan. 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school

Jan. 16: MLK Jr. Day Celebration and Day of Service, Acworth

Jan. 28: Cobb Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

Jan. 28-29: Trains, Trains, Trains, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

FEBRUARY

Feb. 2: State of the City Address, Acworth

Feb. 4: Cobb County Stream Clean Up, Olley Creek

Feb. 4: Kennesaw Valentine’s Dance Party

Feb. 10: Southern Spirits, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

Feb. 17-20: Great Backyard Bird Count, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

Feb. 20-24: Winter Break, Cobb County Schools

Feb. 25: Polar Plunge, Acworth Beach at Cauble Park

Feb. 25: African-American History Month Celebration, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

MARCH

March 1: Readers’ Choice nominations open

March 2: Read Across America Day

March 4: Kennesaw Touch-a-Truck

March 6: Early release day, Cobb County Schools

March 12: Daylight saving time begins

March 25: Women’s History Month Celebration, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

March 31: Acworth Egg Hunt, Acworth Sports Complex

March 31: Readers’ Choice nominations close

*Look for the Acworth Family Dance Party this month.

AT A GLANCE

If getting organized is one of your New Year’s resolutions, this comprehensive calendar should help. We’ve included the dates for school breaks, city festivals and community events that were available at press time. Keep a watch on our community calendar each month for additional activities. For more details on city events, check www.acworth.org and www.kennesaw-ga.gov.

APRIL

April 1: Kennesaw Bunny Breakfast

April 1: Kennesaw Easter Egg Hunt, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

April 1: Western & Atlantic Bus Tour, Kennesaw

April 3-7: Spring Break, Cobb County Schools

April 7: Acworth Farmers Market opens

April 15-16: Acworth Art Fest, downtown

April 22: Live at Logan Farm Park, Acworth

April 22: Kennesaw Beer & Wine Festival

April 22-23: Kennesaw Big Shanty Festival

April 29: Annual Plant Sale, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

*Look for the Downtown Classic Car Cruise in Acworth.

MAY

May 4: Acworth City Hall National Day of Prayer Event

May 6: Acworth-Cobb Dragon Boat Festival, Dallas Landing Park

May 6: French Gratitude Train Celebration, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

May 6: Outdoor Movie Series, Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

May 12-13: Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, Logan Farm Park

May 13: Rose Garden Gala, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

May 15: Readers’ Choice voting begins

May 20: Mount Paran Christian School graduation at 9 a.m.

May 20: North Cobb Christian School graduation at 10 a.m.

May 22-23: Early release days, Cobb County Schools

May 24: Last Day of School, early release day

May 27: Acworth Memorial Day Ceremony, Cauble Park

*Graduations for Allatoona, Harrison, Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb high schools. www.cobbk12.org

JUNE

June 2-4: Dixie Highway 90-Mile Yard Sale

June 3: Outdoor Movie Series, Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

June 10: Civil War History Day, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

June 17: Concert on the Green: A Juneteenth Celebration, Logan Farm Park

June 30: Readers’ Choice voting ends

*Look for the annual Acworth Daddy-Daughter Date Night.

JULY

July 3: Salute to America, downtown Kennesaw

July 3: Southern Spirits, Kennesaw

July 4: Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks, Cauble Park, Acworth

July 22: Railroad Rendezvous, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

July 22: Outdoor Movie Series, Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

*Look for the Downtown Classic Car Cruise, Acworth

AUGUST

Aug. 1: First Day of School

Aug. 18-19: Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival, Adams Park, Kennesaw

Aug. 18-19: Great Pollinator Census, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

Aug. 26: Annual Hummingbird Banding, Smith-Gilbert Gardens

*Readers’ Choice winners announced in the August issues.

SEPTEMBER

Sept. 9: Pizza, Pints & Pigskins, Logan Farm Park, Acworth

Sept. 16-17: Acworth Mother-Son Campout, Proctor Landing Park

Sept. 23: Concert on the Green: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, Logan Farm Park

Sept. 25-29: Fall Break, Cobb County Schools

Sept. 30: Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup

*Cars on the Lake in Acworth will happen this month.

OCTOBER

Oct. 7: Taste of Acworth, downtown Oct. 14: Fall-O-Ween, Swift-Cantrell Park, Kennesaw

Oct. 21: Halloween JamBOOree, Logan Farm Park

Oct. 27: Acworth Farmers Market closes

*Look for the Downtown Classic Car Cruise in Acworth.

NOVEMBER

Nov. 4: Acworth Beer & Wine Fest, Logan Farm Park

Nov. 4: Taste of Kennesaw, downtown Nov. 5: Daylight saving time ends

Nov. 10: Veterans Day Luncheon, Kennesaw Nov. 11: Acworth Veterans Day Ceremony, Cauble Park

Nov. 18: Acworth Turkey Chase, downtown Nov. 20-24: Thanksgiving Break, Cobb County Schools

Nov. 23: Marietta Daily Journal Gobble Jog

DECEMBER

Dec. 1: Santa’s Arrival, downtown Acworth Dec. 2: Breakfast with Santa, Kennesaw Dec. 2: A Day with Santa, downtown Kennesaw Dec. 2, 9: Christmas in Acworth, Depot Park

Dec. 9: Breakfast With the Grinch, Acworth Community Center

Dec. 9: All Aboard for Holiday Fun, Southern Museum, Kennesaw

Dec. 13: Acworth Christmas Golf Cart Parade, Cauble Park Dec. 20-Jan. 3: Christmas Break, Cobb County Schools

*Look for the Acworth and Kennesaw Menorah Lightings.

Warmth inaBowl

Now that winter is here, we’re all looking for things that make us feel warm and toasty. What better way to warm up on the inside than turning to a classic comfort food — soup. Chef and chocolatier Alejandra P.L. Peek, a native of Mexico, is sharing five of her best soup and stew recipes this month to offer our readers some new varieties of an old favorite. The Acworth resident, who owns a catering business, studied and worked at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and came to metro Atlanta when she was hired by French chef Joel Antunes. Enjoy!

Corn Poblano Creamy Soup

INGREDIENTS

1 cup diced onions

½ cup butter

2 tablespoons sugar

4 cups yellow corn (frozen or can)

6 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

Saute onions in butter, add sugar and cook for 3 minutes on medium-high heat. Add 3 cups of corn (reserve 1 cup) and chicken broth; boil for 4-6 minutes. Add salt and heavy cream. Blend everything. Add the rest of the corn before serving. If desired, top with cilantro leaves, fresh black pepper or 2 poblano peppers (microwave 2 minutes in a plastic bag, cool, then peel and remove seeds and cut juliennestyle). Serves 6.

French Onion Soup

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

About 5 cups (1½ pounds) thinly sliced yellow onions (not sweet onions)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon sugar 3 tablespoons flour

2 quarts (64 ounces) beef stock (or water with beef bouillon)

DIRECTIONS

4 ounces dry white wine or dry vermouth

Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon cognac or brandy (optional)

French, Italian or rustic bread, cut into bite-size cubes and toasted

1-2 cups grated, real Swiss Gruyère

In a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, add butter and oil, then sliced onions. Cook slowly, with the lid on, for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Remove the lid, turn up heat to medium, add salt and sugar, and stir often for 40-45 minutes, until onions are deep golden brown. Add flour and continue to cook and stir for another 3 or 4 minutes. Remove from heat and add stock/bouillon and wine/vermouth. Add salt and pepper to taste, return to cooktop and simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes. Just before the soup is ready, preheat oven to 350 degrees.

When the soup is ready, add the brandy/cognac, if using, and check for seasoning. Ladle it into eight ovenproof bowls and top with cubes of toasted bread. Sprinkle real Swiss Gruyère on top of toast, as desired. Place bowls on a tray and put in the center of the oven for about 15 minutes. Reset the oven to broil and move the tray closer to the top to get a golden color on the cheese. Watch carefully, as it can burn quickly. Serve immediately. Serves 8.

Chef Alejandra P.L. Peek

French Onion Soup Corn Poblano Creamy Soup

Taco Soup MX

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 large onion, chopped

32 ounces beef mince

1 can (14 ounces) pinto beans

1 can (14 ounces) sweet corn

1 can (14 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes

1 tablespoon taco seasoning

12 ounces water

Sour cream, sliced green spring onions and/or tortilla chips or Fritos, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil on medium. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Add beans, corn, tomatoes, taco seasoning and water and bring to a boil. Garnish with sour cream, green onions and tortilla chips. Serves 10.

Carne en su Jugo de Jalisco

(Jalisco’s Beef Stew)

INGREDIENTS

10 slices bacon

1 cup white onions, brunoise

2 tablespoons garlic, chopped

1 pound beef steak, small squares

DIRECTIONS

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

3 teaspoons Maggi sauce

1 big bunch cilantro leaves

2 quarts beef broth

1 can beans

Saute bacon for 5 minutes until crunchy; reserve. In the same grease, add onions and garlic and cook for 3 minutes on medium-high heat. Add steak, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce and Maggi sauce. When everything is cooked, blend in cilantro with broth and boil for 25 minutes. Add beans. Top with bacon, green onions and/or crispy corn tortillas, if desired. Serves 8.

Tarasca Soup With Chicken

INGREDIENTS

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 large onion, diced (about 1 cup)

2 cups shredded, cooked, boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 cup pinto beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained ½ cup frozen whole kernel corn

1 carton (32 ounces) organic chicken broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon guajillo chili powder

2 tablespoons lime juice Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: 2 avocados, 1-2 cups fresh cream or 2 chiles negro (black dry peppers, cut in thin slices and fried in canola oil until crispy)

DIRECTIONS

Heat oil in a 6-quart saucepot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes or until tender-crisp. Stir in chicken, beans, tomatoes, corn, broth, tomato paste and guajillo chili powder and heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in lime juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve topped with crushed tortilla chips or strips, avocado, cream and/or chips of chile negro, if desired. Serves 6.

Tarasca Soup

Carne en su Jugo de Jalisco

Taco Soup

Reviving a and Some

BY NICOLE SMITH

“To the memory of our friends” was inscribed on a brass plaque held by Principal David Nelson as he talked about the history of the Pine Mountain Middle School Memorial Garden. Dedicated on May 14, 1985, to the memory of staff, faculty and students who had died, the garden began with the names of two staff/faculty members, and, through 1994, the names of seven more members of the learning community were added.

After almost 40 years, the plaque has aged, and some names are fading, but Pine Mountain Middle School (PMMS) leaders want to ensure the school keeps their memory alive. Nelson has taken on the role of keeper of the garden’s history, and from talking to his predecessors, he learned the intention of the garden was to respectfully honor deceased members of the PMMS family, in a way that also would greatly enhance the campus. It also would serve as a place that students and staff could enjoy and where families could feel their loved one was an important part of the learning community. As the current principal, Nelson said he is honored to build upon the work of those who came before him.

The garden has not changed much during the past 37 years, except for when it was rededicated in 2004. Around that time, clerk Pat Arnold, Assistant Principal Lisa Jackson and Principal Ivia Redmond organized efforts to add the existing pergola and seating areas for outdoor classes. Those additions have inspired ideas for future uses of the space.

“We want to continue to nourish the space and get it back to its former glory, to again be something our entire learning community can be proud of,” Nelson said. School leaders are working on new opportunities for former PMMS community members to purchase memorial markers for their loved ones, and there are plans to increase the seating in the garden to make it more functional for lunch or outdoor lessons. It’s small enough to be manageable, but it requires a strategic plan and commitment to make sure it stays aligned with its original intended use.

During the past few months, Nelson has been working with members of the Rotary Club of North Cobb to beautify the space.

Memories

Rotary President Nancy Prochaska clears out weeds from the memorial garden. Photos courtesy of Pine Mountain Middle School.

Rotary Club member Ada Wikina volunteers to help clean up.

Garden Memories

As with any garden, there is maintenance required to keep the weeds at bay, shrubs tidy and outdoor features looking new. Members of the Rotary Club recently joined the Kennesaw Mountain High School volleyball team to refresh the garden and create a plan for future improvements.

Nelson said Rotary President Nancy Prochaska has been instrumental in helping to rejuvenate the space and bring in local community and business support. The school’s partnership with the Rotary Club will continue, and, once the garden has been brought back to its former glory, a rededication will be planned, and everyone who played a part in the garden’s history will be invited. The timeline hasn’t been defined yet; the progress of the project depends on volunteer help.

Aside from physical maintenance, Nelson is asking for help in piecing together the history of the garden. “There are memorial markers in the garden that were purchased in memory of former loved ones at the school,” he said. “Many of the markers remain, but over the years, some have been lost to time or are no longer legible, due to the marker’s material.” A maintenance plan will be created to obtain new markers. Help is needed to identify names on the existing markers. Nelson would like to hear from anyone who purchased a marker to confirm information and update records.

Almost 20 years after the dedication, during the 2004-05 school year, the garden was rededicated. “This dedication was to honor Jack Hensley, a beloved substitute and parent who was one of three hostages kidnapped and killed while working in Iraq in the fall of 2004, garnering national and worldwide attention,” Nelson said.

Volunteers are needed to help with weeding, adding mulch and pine straw, and pruning. Financial contributions also are appreciated. For more information, contact Nelson at david. nelson@cobbk12.org.

Nicole Smith is a public health professional living in Kennesaw with her epic houseplant collection and two senior dogs, Jax and Lily Grace.

Plaques on a wall in the memorial garden.

Sophomore Ivana Coker, left, and junior Brooke Rowlette, members of the volleyball team, work on beautifying the garden.

Burnette Joins City Council

Lynette Burnette was sworn in as the new Post 1 representative on the Kennesaw City Council at the Dec. 5 meeting. Before joining the other elected officials on the dais, Burnette was administered the oath of office by Judge Luke Mayes IV.

Kennesaw State Fills 3 Leadership Positions

Kennesaw State University (KSU) has been busy filling leadership positions the past few months.

Ivan Pulinkala assumed his new role of provost and senior vice president for academic affairs last month after being the interim for the past year. During his 17 years at KSU, he has served as interim vice president for enrollment services, dean of the College of the Arts, director of the dance program and chairman of the dance department.

Pulinkala received a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Alabama, a Master of Fine Arts in dance from Mills College in Oakland, California, and a Bachelor of Commerce (honors) from Hindu College, Delhi University.

James Sabourin has been chosen for the newly created position of vice president of marketing and communications, effective Jan. 3.

Sabourin, who has more than 30 years of corporate and higher education experience, has served as vice president for communications and university relations at Louisiana State University, senior vice president/chief communications officer and vice president for corporate communications for Unum and vice president for America West Airlines.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in communications and journalism from Florida State University.

Jo Donna Lamb has been named assistant vice president for planning, design and construction, effective Jan. 23.

Holden Holland prepares to do maintenance on the data transfer unit in an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the Helicopter Strike Maritime Squadron.

Holland Serving in the Pacific

Kennesaw native Holden Holland, an aviation electronics technician 3rd Class, is serving in the U.S. Navy in the hangar bay aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, which is conducting routine operations with the U.S. 3rd Fleet in the Pacific Ocean.

Lamb has served as director of planning, design, engineering and construction at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia, director of planning and design at Piedmont Healthcare, senior director of project planning and design at Emory University and a member of the capital project management team at Columbia University.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Columbia University.

Judge Luke Mayes IV administers the oath of office to Lynette Burnette.

Ivan Pulinkala

James Sabourin

Jo Donna Lamb

From Kennesaw to Europe

School of Rock West Cobb House Band Goes Global

The School of Rock West Cobb house band represented Kennesaw and Cobb County internationally last summer at the world-famous Rock in Rio festival in Europe.

School of Rock (SOR) is a performance-based music education program for people of all ages, and young musicians, usually ages 11-18, in the regular performance program can audition for the house band. The goal is to expose students to life as a musician — band rehearsals, stage setup, equipment management and promoting themselves.

The SOR West Cobb band, made up of 12 musicians ages 12-17, performs at local festivals, including Big Shanty, Pigs & Peaches and Smoke on the Lake, every year and also tours with other SOR house bands. Along with other students from the school, the band also has played at iconic Georgia venues like Center Stage Theater, The Tabernacle and the beloved Strand Theatre on the Marietta Square.

But in June, a different and unique experience awaited the young group, as members packed their bags and headed to Europe for the trip of a lifetime. The band was among the 32 house bands — out of SOR’s 350 international locations — to be chosen by Live Nation and event organizers to perform at Rock in Rio Lisboa in Portugal. Since 1984, headliners at the festival have included Queen, AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses and Ozzy Osbourne, among others.

The kids from West Cobb performed first in Spain, at a local venue in Madrid, then headed for a performance at Time Out Market in Lisbon, Portugal, before taking the stage at the big festival on their last day. They played for hundreds of people each time.

“It was an amazing experience,” said SOR West Cobb owner Gabriel Rudge, who started the school in February 2020. “Our house band is very young, and it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We had a blast.”

Though the band has been together for a little over a year, Rudge said the members have an incredible team dynamic and work ethic.

“To be part of the house band is not only about having great proficiency at your instrument,” he said. “A house band member has to be the role model for the other students at the school but also when representing our community. The expectations are high for commitment, dedication, attitude and discipline.”

The school emphasizes playing a variety of genres in its programs, which helps students get exposed to other styles of music, like soul and funk, and allows them to learn and appreciate songs beyond the rock and pop-rock arena. The house band’s set list for festivals mirrors that.

“We create shows that reflect diversity and cultural perspective,” Rudge said. “We don’t teach music to put on shows; we put on shows to teach music. That is what School of Rock is all about.”

The Rock in Rio trip allowed the house band musicians to gain an even greater appreciation for music and culture, as many of the students had never left the United States before, Rudge said.

“Music is truly the universal language, but it always represents the local culture,” he said. “We’re proud to have represented Georgia, Cobb County and the United States, while also taking back some of Portugal and Spain in our hearts.”

SUBMITTED BY SCHOOL OF ROCK WEST COBB

From left, Colby Kuzontkoski, Edgar Rudge, Grayson Ridgway, Alex Freedman, Anna Nix and Mya Cornille were among the musicians to play at Rock in Rio.

BY GREG FONZENO

With the start of the new year, temperatures continue to drop. For boaters who still are getting out on our lakes and rivers, remember that cold water will cool a body 25 times faster than cold air at the same temperature. Water colder than the normal body temperature of 98.6 degrees causes heat loss. Nearly 85% of boating fatalities are due to drowning, and nearly half of those deaths are attributed to the effects of immersion in cold water.

Using our lakes and rivers can be great in any weather, but there are dangers associated with cold water that could put even the most skilled paddlers and swimmers at risk.

The first step in being prepared is wearing a life jacket, which is as important as wearing a seat belt while driving. A properly fitted life jacket will keep a person’s airway out of the water, which is most important when the gasping reflex begins, and the heart rate and blood pressure rise dramatically, increasing the risk of cardiac arrest. The victim might hyperventilate and find it difficult to get air into the lungs.

Wintertime boaters can prepare for the colder weather by taking the following steps before leaving home:

• Dress appropriately and use layers.

• Always check the weather report.

• Make sure your phone is charged.

• Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

• Never go alone.

• Always wear a life jacket.

Also, to better prepare for the spring and summer boating seasons, use the cooler months to take a boating-safety class. The local Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a conventional classroom safe-boating class once a month from February through September (as well as a three-day virtual course via Zoom in April, May and July). Information about boating education classes can be requested by emailing the Lake Allatoona Coast Guard Auxiliary at flotilla22pe@gmail.com.

Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.

Kennesaw and the Medal of

BY ANDREW J. BRAMLETT

For more than a century and a half, our community has had the distinction of being the birthplace of the Medal of Honor. The story begins with the Great Locomotive Chase in 1862, when a group of Union spies, led by civilian James J. Andrews, stole the General locomotive while it was stopped in Big Shanty (present-day

Kennesaw). Known as the Andrews Raiders, the group planned to travel north along the Western & Atlantic Railroad to Chattanooga and destroy the vital rail line along the way. But the raiders were chased by several railroad employees and were forced to abandon the effort north of Ringgold. The raiders were arrested,

and several, including Andrews, were executed.

At the same time, the U.S. Army was looking into the possibility of creating a medal for heroic actions. Up until that point, such an honor was considered to be aristocratic, but the Civil War caused the War Department to reconsider. Officially created in the summer of 1862, the new award was based on the U.S. Navy’s Medal of Honor, created the previous year. After the War Department received the new Army medals from the Philadelphia Mint, it was up to the Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton, to award them to a brave soldier.

In March 1863, six raiders who had been in a Confederate prison were exchanged and allowed to return to the North. On March 25, 1863, they met with Stanton at the War Department, where he presented them with the first Medals of Honor. The first award went to Jacob Parrott, followed by Elihu Mason, William Pittenger, William Reddick, Robert Buffum and William Bessinger. Next,

The General locomotive in 1907. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.

Stealing the General. Courtesy of “Daring and Suffering” by William Pittenger.

of Honor

the men went to meet with President Abraham Lincoln at the White House. The first posthumous Medal of Honor in history came several months later, when one was awarded to another raider, Marion Ross. Since that time, almost all of the 22 Andrews Raiders have been awarded the distinction. Interestingly, our community’s connection to the Medal of Honor does not end there. During the Atlanta Campaign of 1864, Gen. William T. Sherman moved his troops south through Georgia, hoping to reach the heart of the Confederate rail network. As he made his way toward Atlanta, the armies reached Big Shanty. One of the Union troops, a native of Ireland named Thomas Timothy Fallon, had served in the Army since the start of the war. During earlier battles at Williamsburg and Fair Oaks, Virginia, he had fought heroically. On June 14-15, 1864, Fallon was part of the fighting in the Big Shanty area and helped charge the enemy earthworks. During the fighting, Fallon saw a Confederate officer, swung his musket at the man and dragged him back to

Union lines. This act, along with his earlier action in Virginia, earned Fallon the Medal of Honor on Feb. 13, 1891.

Fallon’s medal has a unique story of its own. For unknown reasons, the U.S. Army kept his medal. In 1957, a college was creating an exhibit about a school alumnus and Medal of Honor recipient and requested a replica of the award. Instead, the Army sent Fallon’s medal. The mix-up was discovered in 2016, and his medal finally was given to his family in 2019.

As Sherman moved past Big Shanty, he encountered the Confederate soldiers at Kennesaw Mountain. It was there that Illinois musician Alason P. Webber was playing his fife to lead Union troops into battle. On June 27, 1864, Webber and his fellow soldiers attacked the Confederates at Cheatham Hill but could not reach the earthworks. The group’s leader, Lt. Col. Allen Fahnestock, let Webber borrow a Henry repeating rifle. Webber used it to keep the Confederates from firing long enough for wounded Union soldiers to leave the battlefield and return to safety. Webber’s story is told in the museum at Kennesaw Mountain, and it notes that he was asked by a fellow soldier if he was able to hit any of the enemy soldiers. He simply responded, “I aimed at someone every time I shot … it made me sick.” For helping to save his comrades’ lives, Webber was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1896.

As you can see, the Kennesaw area has an interesting connection to the Medal of Honor, as almost 20 were awarded for action in our area. Few places across the country can claim that distinction.

For more details about the Great Locomotive Chase, I suggest visiting the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, where the General resides. Additionally, “Stealing the General: The Great Locomotive Chase and the First Medal of Honor” by Russell S. Bonds is an excellent read.

Andrew Bramlett is vice president of the Kennesaw Historical Society and an honorary member of the Kennesaw Cemetery Preservation Commission.

Alason Webber with the Henry repeating rifle. Courtesy of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

Jacob Parrott, the first recipient of the Medal of Honor. Courtesy of findagrave.com.

James J. Andrews. Courtesy of “Daring and Suffering” by William Pittenger.

Chiropractic Care Is a Family

Dr. Cris Eaton-Welsh grew up in a home that was focused on helping others. Her dad, Doc Eaton, started Kennesaw’s Eaton Chiropractic 32 years ago with her mom, Pam, who was a massage therapist and the office manager.

However, it wasn’t until she had earned a bachelor’s in business administration from Kennesaw State University and was preparing for the CPA exam that she realized she didn’t want to sit behind a desk for the rest of her life.

“My father was teaching at Life University and running his own practice, and I had never seen them happier,” she said. “That’s when I told my father I wanted to go to chiropractic school. He almost dropped the phone because he was so excited.”

Cris enrolled at Life, earned her doctorate and joined her parents’ practice in 2000. In 2007, she took over the practice full time when her parents moved to China to run a chiropractic office for Life University in the Sichuan province.

“My parents built this practice on the premise of lasting purpose: ‘To give, to love, to serve and to do.’ When they purchased the old drug store on Main Street to move the practice into it, they invested heavily into making Kennesaw an incredible place to live, work and raise a family. The emphasis is on being a healthy community that values wellness,” she said.

Continuing the Legacy

Cris has extended that community focus in ways that have earned her statewide recognition. She served on the Kennesaw City Council 2009-2015. During that time, she created an initiative called Fit City Kennesaw, designed to address obesity and health concerns of the city’s residents. Health-oriented and educational organizations — WellStar, Kaiser, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Life University, Kennesaw State University, the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association — joined forces with local businesses, such as Big Peach and Cobb EMC, to administer a plan that emulates a corporate wellness program.

From this initiative, the Kennesaw Grand Prix Series and the Swift Kids Running Program were born. In the past 11 years, the series has funneled almost $1 million back into the community. The programs caught the

Dr. Aaron Young assessing a patient.

Dr. Cris surrounded by the Swift Kids running club.

Five Pillars of Health

Family Tradition

attention of Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle in 2015 and earned his office’s health partner award.

For all of her efforts, Cris received the 2013 Health Hero award from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, was named the 2015 Kennesaw Business Association Citizen of the Year and the 2020 Kennesaw Citizen of the Year. She was Chiropractor of the Year in 2009, an honor given by the Georgia Council of Chiropractors, and her practice was named a Top 25 Small Business in 2016 by the Cobb Chamber.

In 2011, Cris was invited to the White House with the National League of Cities to share the success in creating a community that values health and wellness and to teach others how to scale a program for their community.

The past seven years have been devoted to her practice and family. The office has experienced exponential growth and has expanded in new directions since 2020. The pandemic “brought an awareness that you do not have to be symptomatic to be experiencing an issue and how important it is to make sure comorbidities are decreased or eliminated, so the body can properly fight illness,” she said.

Patient Alaina drinking water to stay hydrated.

Chiropractic care can help with all the pillars, but especially the last one.

“As chiropractors, our job is to make sure your brain is talking to your body, and your body is talking back to your brain, uninterrupted,” Cris said. “When we find a disconnect, we call that a subluxation. In our office, the focus is detecting and correcting subluxations, so your body can function at its optimal level.”

Eaton Chiropractic is in network with every insurance company, including Kaiser, as well as Medicare. Not every patient is accepted for care; after an initial consultation, done at Cris’ expense, each person is evaluated to make sure he or she is a good fit. If not, she’ll recommend the person to another office.

Dr. Cris and Dr. Aaron Young outgrew the historic building on Main Street, and recently relocated to Vaughn Road, off Cobb Parkway, near Whole Foods.

“We absolutely love our space. I call it our little glass treehouse; one of the negotiations in our lease was to be able to move our Swift Kids Running Program to the head of the Noonday Creek Trail. My new office sits right at the head of the trail,” she said. “We are incredibly excited to be a part of the Town Center CID (Community Improvement District) family and can’t wait to build the community here that we had in downtown Kennesaw.”

Dr. Cris Eaton cares for her patients and the community

4 Ways to Make Your Home Cozy and Inviting

BY ELISABETH STUBBS

We’ve come a long way since home was a damp cave with a fire. We crave a place that welcomes us and makes us feel secure and safe, especially when it is cold and dreary outside. Home. For most people, the word brings feelings of warmth and comfort. In the past couple of years, we have learned to appreciate our living space more as a personal refuge. And, in the winter, we spend much more time indoors. Here are some ways to make your refuge even more homey.

The Living Room

A comfy couch is essential, and it can make the whole room. Add texture with throws and a few plump pillows to elevate the comfort factor. Natural materials — wool, linen, cotton — enhance coziness.

If you have a fireplace mantel, decorate with some things that mean “home” to you. Candles, family pieces that spark memories, a small collection to display — just don’t make it too formulaic.

Books are an essential part of a cozy room, and, if you have a dedicated reading nook in your living room, that is the ultimate invitation to curl up and relax.

The Kitchen

Kitchens are functional spaces, and we spend a lot of time there. So, make your kitchen as relaxing and welcoming as it can be. Be sure to add plants or flowers, and attractive rugs to personalize the room, as well as seasonal decorations. Adding a lamp in the kitchen can make a huge difference in the feel of the space because lamps are much warmer and more comforting than overhead lights.

The Entryway

Start at the front door, where you first welcome guests. Consider adding warm lighting and calming art, think blues, greens, grays. Create a place to sit and remove shoes, and a place to hang coats.

Throughout the Home

Spread some of these ideas into every room in the house. Natural textures such as wood, rattan and natural fibers enhance the homey feeling. Add family heirlooms — old quilts, doilies, photos — to contribute to the feeling of “home.”

A trendier item that adds warmth is fairy lights. Small, white twinkling lights are loved at Christmastime, and they can make any room more inviting all year. Mirrors reflect light and add dimension to a room, especially in interesting shapes and sizes. And area rugs feel wonderful underfoot and can function as a seasonal accent.

Candles capture the essence of warmth and comfort. Consider using artificial ones if you have children or pets. You probably have so many of these cozy components in your home, so pull them out, use them in different rooms, and warm up your space!

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors & More, one of Atlanta’s toprated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

Enhance Floors & More is one of the most experienced flooring companies in North Georgia.

Founded 37 years ago in Marietta, the flooring showroom is locally owned and staffed by a skilled team with a combined 150-plus years of experience.

Clients rave about how Enhance Floors is a “one-stop shop and made what could have been an overwhelming experience easy and fun.” Pop in to browse the large selection of flooring options and see for yourself what all the hype is about.

A Pathway to Success for Youth in Crisis

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

The Four Corners Group, a nonprofit headquartered in Kennesaw, offers a variety of effective programs for at-risk students. The staff and volunteers at Four Corners seek to decrease juvenile recidivism and end the school-toprison pipeline. They accomplish this by providing youth with education, support and empowerment to realize their full potential and live successful lives.

The students they serve are:

• Historically underserved and facing challenges.

• Attending Title I schools.

• Dropped out of school.

• Enrolled in an alternative school.

• Recently released from juvenile detention centers.

• Currently involved in the juvenile court system or juvenile facilities.

“One of the most eye-opening and impactful things that occurs at our youth development organization is the transformation of our youth,” said Ron Green, program developer of Four Corners Group.

Serving in the schools and detention centers of Cobb County, the nonprofit offers a variety of programming, including an eight-week Pathways to Success program, which covers topics such as character education, integrity and self-control, emotional health and job-readiness training. “As a resident of Cherokee County, my hope is to expand our programs into my home county this year,” Green said.

“Many of our participants come from challenging backgrounds — severe poverty, abuse, violence, underachievement, no direction, low self-esteem and more,” Green said. “(Yet) most participants experience a change in psyche during our programs. They simply morph into young people who become the best versions of themselves. They become leaders in their homes, schools and communities.”

Four Corners’ 1625 Initiative involves trained teams visiting youth in juvenile detention centers and holding workshops. The group also offers a Parenting on Purpose program,

Participants take a trip to a Kennesaw State University football game.

Four Corners Group offers participants a chance to gather for games and fellowship.

in-school programs, Toastmasters (a club that teaches public speaking and leadership skills) and a Continuum of Care program, in which students are partnered with a mentor and success coach for the year following graduation.

“Let me tell you about one of our shining stars, Phillip, a teenager who was in the juvenile detention center because of misconduct,” Green said. “After finishing our program and being appointed to one of our success coaches, Phillip is now gainfully employed and on track for an internship at BMW! I have a special place in my heart for these kids, because my past is similar to theirs, in many ways.”

Joshua, also a successful Four Corners participant, shared his experience: “Wow, what a blessed opportunity it was to come to the Four Corners Pathways program. Honestly, I learned a lot and developed a passion for public speaking. Before Four Corners I wouldn’t ever have thought I had a voice, but this program really built my confidence. I’m forever thankful.”

Stories like Phillip’s and Joshua’s are heard over and over at Four Corners. To keep the momentum going of restoring hope for young people in crisis, William Johnson, the founder, built a team that consists of success coaches, Parenting on Purpose coaches, mentors and other vital support staff.

Johnson has a deep passion for youth in urban communities. Before launching

Four Corners Group, he equipped students, adults and leaders to rise to the top for more than 14 years as a student pastor with Young Life, a worldwide organization. He also served as chaplain for the Gwinnett Youth Detention Center for seven years. His goal is to bring awareness to the need for social justice and inspire more leaders to get involved in reaching out in their own backyards, to unlock our communities and save our youth.

Four Corners volunteers are critically important for the organization’s growth. If you have a desire to get involved with developing the future generation, visit the Volunteer tab

Opportunities also are available to help with operational needs, such as providing a wish-list item. The list includes such things as a rolling white board; Samsung tablets; gift cards from Walmart, Amazon, Kroger, etc.; and Pathways cohort meal sponsorships. For more information, visit the website, email info@fourcornersgroup.net or call 470-210-1625.

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at

Toastmasters training helps students develop their public speaking and leadership skills.

Harrison High School

National English Honor Society: A New Era

BY WANDI HADEBE

After putting in service hours and hard work for a year, candidates for the National English Honor Society (NEHS) at Harrison High School (HHS) were welcomed as the newest members of the organization during an induction ceremony last spring.

The James Joyce chapter of NEHS operates out of the Hoya Writing Center, where students can stop by for help in the mornings and afternoons, by appointment or walk-in. English teachers Jordan Motsinger, Stephanie Tatum and Danielle Crandall serve as advisers. Students in the society can hold a variety of offices, including president, vice president, social media director, secretary, treasurer, activities chair and writing center coordinator.

At the induction, last year’s president, Arrey Enow, spoke on how meaningful NEHS was to her, as well as how it is the “steppingstones for students at Harrison to better their talents in the English department.” This outlook came not only from her two years with NEHS but also from the help she received from teachers and students in the writing center during her freshman year.

This year, senior Jack Lakis has taken on the role of club president. Coincidentally, it was Enow who convinced him to apply to NEHS. “Honestly, I kind of did it off a whim almost, but I’m really glad I did because it turned out really well,” he said.

As president, Lakis has been working hard with the other officers to create an immersive environment for this year’s candidates. In the first two months of this school year, NEHS already had seen a variety of new community service and writing opportunities, including the reading buddy program with elementary

students started by Vice President Kitty Calhoun, new features at the writing center and the upcoming literary magazine. All HHS students were encouraged to submit a piece of original writing, and after fall semester, selected pieces will be published.

When asked why she wanted to be writing center coordinator, instead of president, Peyton Owens replied, “I love the writing center so much. I think that this place has so much potential and that all it takes is a little love and care.” Owens has been working diligently to revitalize the center. “We’re trying to make it a more welcoming place to be, a more fun place to be for students

who didn’t know about it last semester,” she said.

The writing center is the heart and soul of NEHS’ community service. Members and candidates tutor students there daily, and Owens is doing everything she can to make it a place where people are comfortable. NEHS has created a space within the walls of Harrison High for students to embrace English and for the society to leave its mark.

Peyton Owens, left, and Jack Lakis at the National English Honor Society induction.

Wandi Hadebe is a junior at Harrison High School and is in her second year of the journalism program. She’s passionate about literature and is a member of Harrison’s literature-based clubs.

The New Year’s Resolution I’ve Kept

BY DAVID CAMPBELL

In January, many people make New Year’s resolutions. You’ve probably done it. Can you guess the most common ones? Exercising more and losing weight always vie for the top two positions. It makes sense. I can’t prove it, but I would think that from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, we eat more and exercise less than any other five-week period of the year. So when people start thinking about resolutions, those two top the list.

But there are a few people out there who resolve to do other things. No. 3 on the list is “get organized.” Again, with no proof, I bet this one might be the most short-lived of them all. Disorganized people seldom change that through a resolution.

No. 4 is my favorite — “learn a new skill or hobby.” If you pick the right skill or hobby, that one becomes easy. There are more — save money, quit smoking, travel more. The list rarely changes.

How about you? Surely you’ve made one. Is it on the list? How long did you stay with it? According to a 2016 survey, 41% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, but by the end of the year, only 9% claim success. The survey showed 25% drop out after a week, 36% after a month and 54% after six months. By the end of the year, the failure rate has soared to 91%!

Going into something with a 91% failure rate doesn’t seem like the best use of your time, so I suggest trying something different. Don’t think in

terms of resolutions, but set a goal or two at some point. That always is worthwhile. Make your goals realistic. If you’ve never been able to finish a magazine article, don’t set a goal to read “War and Peace.” Find someone who will hold you accountable. There is no way to overstate the importance of this. Not being held accountable to someone makes it too easy to quit. And give yourself an easy onramp. I know people who wanted to read through the Bible and started with Leviticus. Trust me, this is not the easiest book with which to start!

I’m all about growing as an individual and learning new things, but I’m not sure New Year’s resolutions are the way to go, even though I did make one 40 years ago that I’ve kept. I resolved never to make another New Year’s resolution, and I’m still batting a thousand! For everything else, I’ve avoided turning them into resolutions. Turning them into a way of life seems to work much better.

Happy New Year!

Dr. David Campbell is the senior pastor at Due West United Methodist Church. He is a husband, father, grandfather and former Army chaplain. He can be reached at dcampbell@duewest.org. Church website duewest.org.

I resolved never to make another New Year’s resolution, and I’m still batting a thousand! "

"

Dogs and volunteers from Mostly Mutts walk along the parade route. Santa and Mrs. Claus wrapped up the parade.

Employees of the Cobb County Public Library perform a routine with their book carts.

No Rain on This Christmas Parade

PHOTOS BY DONNA HARRIS

Though the clouds looked threatening, the rain held off long enough for the city of Kennesaw to welcome Santa to town with its annual Christmas parade last month. High school bands, Scout troops, floats, costumed characters, baseball teams and dance groups marched along Main Street and guided the jolly old elf into the downtown area for the Day With Santa activities, which included live performances, a vendor market, photos with the man in red and a tree lighting.

The Kennesaw Mountain High School marching band provides festive Christmas tunes for the parade.

Members of Pugs of Cobb County were decked out in their finest Christmas attire.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Jan. 10

KBA Luncheon

State of the City Address 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Recreation Center at Adams Park 2737 Watts Drive

Jan. 19 Young Professionals Happy Hour 5-8 p.m. Red Top Brewhouse 4637 S. Main St.

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Jan. 20

SUPER Women’s Luncheon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Copeland’s Kennesaw 1142 Barrett Parkway

Jan. 24

Wake Up KBA

7:45-9 a.m. Gaines Park 1740 Old Highway 41

BY KEVIN JABBARI

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Launching an Exciting New Year

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The Kennesaw Business Association (KBA) is jumping into 2023 with a new president, new theme, exciting new program and a lot of new energy!

As the KBA president for 2023, I plan to spread happiness and joy around Kennesaw this year. The new unofficial theme for KBA is “Choose Happy.” What does this mean? This means you have the power to control your attitude, your behavior and, ultimately, your future. Simply put, your thoughts become words, your words become actions, your actions become habits, and your habits become your character, which becomes your destiny.

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Another exciting addition to the Kennesaw Business Association this year is a brand-new program specifically tailored to young professionals in our community. This Young Professionals Group will include local business people who are 35 years old and younger. They will introduce mentoring programs, host monthly happy hours and plan other opportunities to learn and socialize as they grow in their respective fields in and around our great community. The Young Professionals kickoff event will be at 5 p.m. Jan. 19 at Red Top Brewhouse. You can RSVP by visiting kennesawbusiness.org.

January typically is a busy month, and that’s evident in the KBA schedule. We would love to see you at any of our upcoming events!

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Jan. 10 will be our monthly luncheon, where Kennesaw Mayor Derek Easterling will be joining us for the annual State of the City Address. This event will take place at the Kennesaw Recreation Center at Adams Park, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Jan. 20 is our bimonthly SUPER Women’s Luncheon. The event will be at Copeland’s in Kennesaw, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and is a wonderful opportunity to meet, network and socialize with some amazing local businesswomen.

Jan. 24 is Wake Up KBA for all the early birds. January’s event will take place at Gaines Park, 7:45-9 a.m. It’s just one more amazing networking opportunity you don’t want to miss.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to make a change for yourself, your business and your career. Take the first step by visiting Kennesaw Business Association and getting involved in all that the organization has to offer. This is your year to “Choose Happy” and see where it takes you. There are some exciting events coming up, and we would love to see you there!

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Kevin Jabbari is the president of the Kennesaw Business Association and owns Jabbari Property Services LLC.

STRONGER TOGETHER

Through Networking

Aroundabout Local Media’s mission statement is to “help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.”

Using this as a plumb line for all that we do on the advertising and editorial sides of our company, we created a new feature. Once a quarter, we will share photos of the entrepreneurs in our community gathering to exchange ideas and information, developing relationships by supporting and encouraging one another while opening doors to new opportunities.

The Kennesaw Business Association (KBA) meets the second Tuesday of each month for a luncheon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Recreation Center at Adams Park, 2737 Watts Drive. The organization also has Alive After 5, the third Tuesday, 5:30-7 p.m., at various locations; Wake Up KBA, the fourth Tuesday, 7:45-9 a.m., at various locations; and SUPER Women’s Luncheon, the third Friday every other month, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Copeland’s Kennesaw.

Other business associations in the Kennesaw area are invited to send photos from their monthly meetings to edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com. Please include the names of everyone in each photo, along with the date, time and location of your meetings.

Enjoying the 22one Realty Christmas party at Governors Gun Club are, from left, Christine Evans of Legacy Accounting and Tax Services; Teena Regan, owner of 22one Realty; Chris Blackerby, owner of Legacy; and Shannon Hunter of Legacy.

Jason Hively, chief operating officer and brand strategist with InTune Business Solutions, and InTune CEO Tracy Lane were networking at the December KBA luncheon.

From left, Amanda Bowen, advertising ambassador for Aroundabout Local Media; Stephen Eastland, loan officer with Alcova Mortgage; and Amber De Marché of Georgia Platinum Mortgage speak at the inaugural meeting of the Kennesaw Business Club at Tin Lizzy’s Cantina.

Dan Wise, left, and Austin Sapp, both with Superior Flight School, attend the Kennesaw Business Association luncheon in December.

Rob’s Rescues

These animals are at Cobb County Animal Services, waiting for homes.

I interviewed Megan Wargula, Woodstock resident and author of the “Riley Carson” books, which are middle school mysteries. She also is the co-host of the “Dog Nerd Show” podcast. She interviewed me for her podcast, too, and you can find the podcast with me talking about Rob’s Rescues on Apple Podcasts.

Tell us about the “Riley Carson” books.

I have written three books that form the “Riley Carson” series. They are fun, mystery/adventure books for kids, with an animal twist. The purpose behind these books is that we’ve got to do better to help dogs. Through my writing, I believe I can really speak to kids and start teaching them from a young age to help animals.

This dog’s name is Woody. He is a small brown dog who is 10 years old. He is a stray and a very sweet dog who walks well, likes to be picked up and definitely will love you. He’s a very old dog, and seniors make very good pets, especially this one.

How did you get into podcasting?

I had a marketing and social media job. I realized that not everyone is going to read my books, and, in order to get my message out, I needed to broaden my scope. We chose to go the video and podcast route. It is an effort to take the message about changing the world for dogs to another level. We do videos about specific dog breeds to help people make good decisions when getting a dog. We also educate people on health and safety for dogs.

Do you have a story that you like to tell?

How do you come up with podcast ideas?

Our goal for the podcast and the guests we have on it is to help people make good decisions around dogs and keep dogs out of shelters. Once you get a dog, it should be for life.

What is your favorite thing about podcasting?

It is a fun thing to do with my husband, Michael, and a great way to connect with people.

What do you want the community to know?

This cat’s name is Kai. He is a 1-year-old stray. Kai is a great cat who is very loving and loves to be held. It shouldn’t be a problem to find a home for this cat because he would be a great cat anywhere. Maybe that is with you?

At the time, our dogs, two border terriers, got into a package of sugar-free chewing gum. We heard a noise, looked around and just saw wrappers! I prided myself on knowing that chocolate, grapes, etc. were bad for dogs, but I didn’t know anything about sugar-free gum. I Googled it and it contains xylitol. Of course, we didn’t know which one had eaten the gum. We put the one I thought would have done it into the car to take to the emergency vet, but then decided to take them both.

It turns out that it was the one (Finlay) I thought would not have ingested it that actually had! Xylitol will give a dog kidney failure. Finlay was pumped with fluids and kept for 24 hours of observation. He lived to be 17 years old, but it was a nervewracking experience in the moment!

My mission is to educate people about dogs. Kids enjoy my books and get excited about reading. By teaching kids to have compassion for animals, that compassion stretches to compassion for people, too. I often talk to kids in schools about helping dogs. If any schools or teachers want me to come in and talk to their kids, they are welcome to get in touch with me.

How can people get in touch with you?

They can visit https://rileycarsonseries. com or check out the “Dog Nerd Show” on the Apple Podcasts app.

Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.

Rob and Megan Wargula, author and a “Dog Nerd Show” podcaster.

Capturing Moments in the Park

Cobb County Parks and Recreation has chosen the winners of its 2022 Fun in the Park Photo Contest. Photographers were asked to snap pics that captured memories being made at any Cobb County park, facility, activity or event or showed the beauty of nature and wildlife in the parks and then enter their best shots in three categories — general (anything fitting the “Fun in the Park” theme), nature/wildlife and sports/action. The department had more than 370 photos submitted, by far the most it had ever had, so the panel of judges had a difficult time selecting the best ones. But the winners are:

Sports and Action

Nature and Wildlife

Craig Ehler, first

Dennis Tudor, third

Temeka Ringer, second

Paul Mears, first

General Category

Jodi Holtz, second John Ridings, third

Sharell Lewis, second

Joyce Howard, first

Jesslin Ward, third

@ the Library

Cobb County Public Library System

www.cobbcat.org

WEST COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

1750 Dennis Kemp Lane, Kennesaw // 770-528-4699

10 a.m.-8 p.m.Mondays-Wednesdays • 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Thursdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Saturdays • 1-5 p.m.Sundays

Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30

The West Cobb Pokémon Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Mondays. Pokémon enthusiasts ages 6-12 are invited to battle and train with each other, using their favorite Pokémon video game, Pokémon GO or a 60-card Pokémon deck.

Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31

The Dungeons and Dragons Group , 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Ages 13-17 of all skill levels are welcome to discover the world of Dungeons & Dragons.

Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2

Join the West Cobb Craft Club , 10 a.m.-noon Thursdays. Do you knit, crochet, needlepoint or create jewelry? Or do you want to learn how, while making friends? Join the group to craft and get inspired. All skill levels are welcome (especially beginners). Bring your craft supplies.

Jan. 23

The West Cobb Fourth Monday Book Discussion meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. and covers a variety of literature, including fiction, nonfiction, classics and new releases. The January book will be “Crossroads” by Jonathan Franzen.

NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw // 770-801-5320

10 a.m.-8 p.m.Mondays-Wednesdays

10 a.m.-6 p.m.Thursdays-Fridays • 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Saturdays

Jan. 9

Sherlock Holmes Story Discussions with the North Cobb Irregulars take place 6:30-7:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month. Discussions are led by Helen Cauley, president emerita of the Atlanta Sherlock Holmes Society. The text for January is “The Adventure of the Speckled Band.” No RSVP is required.

Jan. 23

Make Mine a Mystery! Book Club meets 6:15-7:15 p.m. the fourth Monday of each month. The group is led by Helen Cauley, president emerita of the Atlanta Sherlock Holmes Society. The book that will be discussed in January is “They Do It With Mirrors” by Agatha Christie. No RSVP is required.

Jan. 24

Cover-to-Cover Book Discussion meets 2-3:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month. The group will be discussing “The Lost Apothecary” by Sarah Penner in January. New members are always welcome.

With Service 4 Ways to Elevate Your Year

BY SUSANNAH MACKAY

January is an exciting time of year. It’s a chance to start fresh, change direction and focus on new priorities. Setting goals is an opportunity to bring new meaning and momentum, but it’s important to choose meaningful, attainable goals. Have you considered making regular community service one of them?

Getting involved in the community — and serving our neighbors — is a proven method of adding joy and meaning to daily life. Studies have shown that regular acts of kindness and service increase self-esteem, hope and gratitude, and improve mental health. This especially is true for teens, but the benefits reach all ages. There is no reason not to build service into your regular routine, and January is a perfect time to make a new commitment to yourself and others.

Justserve.org has a variety of volunteer opportunities for those wanting to make a sustained commitment, which is one of the highest areas of need. Nonprofits love and welcome volunteers whenever they come, but volunteers who can come on a regular basis and remain involved are needed. Here are four high-impact examples:

1. Become a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Atlanta. This outreach program pairs adult mentors with youth in need of attention, guidance and love. https://bit.ly/3OX7MZM.

2. Help out at Capstone Hospice or Heartland Hospice. These services count on caring volunteers to show love and kindness to those dealing with terminal illness. From playing games or music to helping with office work, there is an opportunity for everyone. https://bit.ly/3d1ExGf and https://bit.ly/3FkhRwE.

3. Foster a dog with Mostly Mutts. Make a difference in a sustained way, and mostly from the comfort of home. Mostly Mutts always is in need of foster families. https://bit.ly/3VpNoTo.

4. Simply spend time at Next Step Ministries. The nonprofit serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and community involvement is welcome. From bowling and playing games to reading, there are several ways to show up and show you care. https://bit.ly/3BBjaFO.

Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprofit, or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!

Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.

Senior Activities

VETERAN CONNECTION

Meets the third Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the West Cobb Senior Center and the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at North Cobb Senior Center. Join veterans ages 55 and older for an informal get-together with coffee, doughnuts, camaraderie and special guest presentations. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for more information.

ALOHA TO AGING

Covenant Presbyterian Church 2881 Canton Road, Marietta 770-722-7641 // www.alohatoaging.org

Parkinson’s Support Group. Meets at 2 p.m. the first Monday of each month. Group discussion for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner on helpful tips and resources.

Dementia Caregiver Support Group.

Meets at 10:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one in or out of the home. Care provided during the meeting, but you must RSVP in advance.

Aloha Social Day Club.

Meets 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Respite care for you and engaging social activities for your loved one who no longer drives. Visit the website for details.

WEST COBB SENIOR CENTER

4915 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs // 770-528-8200 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services/west-cobb-senior-center

Jan. 11

Introduction to 19th Century Romanticism, 10-11 a.m. Learn about the composers and music that flourished after the French Revolution.

Jan. 13

Reel Good Movie, 1-3 p.m. Call for the title.

Jan. 18

Fancy Fold Cards. 10 a.m.-noon. Create fancy fold cards for those special people.

Jan. 19

AARP Smart Driver. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Jan. 20

Peace of Mind Checklist, 10-11 a.m. Find out about documents that every person needs, including wills, power of attorney, Georgia directive health care and pre-planning documents.

Hearing Screening, 10-11:30 a.m. Find out if you have hearing loss with this free screening.

Jan. 25

Franz Schubert, the First Bohemian Composer, 10-11 a.m. Learn about Schubert’s masterful art songs in which the piano is as important as the singer.

Jan. 26

Tech Talk: Apple Watch, 10-11 a.m. Learn about all the functions and features of the most popular smartwatch on the market.

Mondays

Knit Wits. 10 a.m.-noon. Meet new friends while working on your latest projects.

Woodcarvers. 1-3 p.m. Work on small woodcarving projects. No experience is necessary. Bring your own materials.

Ballroom Dance. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Couples and singles can enjoy ballroom dancing to music provided by a deejay.

Tuesdays

Paper Crafting Fun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy making cards and scrapbooking with others. Bring your own supplies.

Color Me Happy. 1-4 p.m. Color with others. Bring your own materials.

Wednesdays

Mahjong. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Game knowledge and mahjong cards are required.

DEMENTIA CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Meets monthly at 1 p.m. at Burnt Hickory Baptist Church in Powder Springs. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one in or out of the home. Care provided during the meeting, but must RSVP in advance.

Thursdays

Advanced Bridge. 1-3 p.m. Competitive Standard American Bridge played at an advanced level.

Mexican Train Dominoes. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Form domino chains from a central hub. Beginners welcome.

Fridays

Dance N Squares. 1-3 p.m. Square dancing is the perfect activity for couples looking for fellowship, exercise and good, clean fun.

Donation Helps Pine Mountain Students

The Rotary Club of North Cobb, the Kennesaw Police Department (KPD) and the Kennesaw Police Citizen Advisory Board recently presented a Family Stabilization Impact Grant to Pine Mountain Middle School. Provided on behalf of Chief Bill Westenberger’s citizen review board, the grant will support the school’s student services team, which assists students and families in need. Funds were raised at the Juneteenth Unity in the Community Celebration, hosted by the KPD and advisory board last summer. The Rotary Club, along with local faithbased institutions and businesses, also was instrumental in helping with the donation.

School Celebrates Diversity at Culture Fest

Mount Paran Christian School recently hosted Culture Fest, a biennial international celebration that featured food, music, art, cultural traditions and activities from nearly 20 cultures represented by the school’s community, including Belgium, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, England, France, Greece, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Scotland, Sweden, Thailand and Venezuela. Other activities included crafts for children, such as making an African hat, a sombrero, a maraca or a Chinese drum, as well as a photo booth and bagpipe performances.

Local Students Win Art Contest

Cheer Squad Earns Record Championship

The Mount Paran Christian Eagles competition cheer squad earned its recordbreaking 11th consecutive Georgia High School Association (GHSA) cheerleading state championship — fittingly enough on the 11th day of the 11th month — after moving up to Class 2A and welcoming an entirely new coaching team of McKenzie Rutan, Shelley Ray and Nikki Hamilton. The squad is the only team in the state, across any regional class, to win 11 consecutive cheer titles. It also has the most consecutive GHSA state championships for any sport in Cobb County and is second in most consecutive titles in the state in any sport.

Three students from Durham and Lost Mountain middle schools were among the winners of Cobb’s waterSmart waterArt calendar contest. Maddux C. from Durham and Sam D. and Penelope R. from Lost Mountain have their work featured on the October, May and November pages, respectively, of the 2023 calendar produced by the Cobb County Water System (CCWS) and Cobb CountyMarietta Water Authority. The art, which was judged on creativity, relevance and artistic ability, depicts how each student interpreted the question, “How Is Water Important to Me?” The calendar is available, while supplies last, at the CCWS customer service lobby, 660 South Cobb Drive, Marietta. The winning artwork can be viewed at https://bit. ly/3Q0uTDj.

Evelia Hormes hosted the table for Mexico, which featured Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) crafts, Mexican hot chocolate and other tasty treats.

Mount Paran cheerleaders show off the trophies they won for their 11th consecutive state championship.

Harrison Earns STEM Certification

Harrison High School was recognized recently by the Cobb County Board of Education for earning the district’s STEM certification, which recognizes schools that provide students with STEM-enriched learning opportunities and are committed to helping students cultivate the criticalthinking and problem-solving skills necessary for future success in STEMrelated college and career fields.

Mount Paran Celebrates Veterans Day

More than 1,300 students, faculty, staff and invited guests gathered for the annual Veterans Day Chapel at Mount Paran Christian School to honor those who have served in the armed forces.

The schoolwide event featured the veterans procession, a choral performance of the “Armed Forces Medley,” a slideshow and an inspirational message on hope, faith and love from guest speaker Rob Swartwood, a 2001 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. A combat veteran, with multiple overseas tours, including Afghanistan and Iraq, he was a two-time recipient of the Bronze Star and was honorably discharged from the Army as a captain in 2008.

Two Teams of Eagles Tackle Breast Cancer

North Cobb Christian School (NCCS) and Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) joined forces to raise more than $10,800 for Sisters by Choice, an Atlantabased nonprofit that supports breast cancer patients, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As an incentive, both high school principals, Megan Strange from NCCS and Tawanna Rusk from MPCS, agreed that the principal of the school that raised the most money could throw a pie in the other principal’s face during halftime of the MPCS-NCCS football game. And if more than $10,000 was raised collectively, both principals would take a pie to the face, which is what ended up happening, since students exceeded the goal.

Scholarship Established at Chattahoochee Tech

Habitat for Humanity recently presented a $5,000 donation to the Chattahoochee Tech Foundation to establish a scholarship in memory of Habitat volunteer Mike Willard, who died in March at age 79. Willard built high-quality homes in the Atlanta area and did volunteer work with Habitat that included teaching young people how to swing a hammer.

The scholarship will support Chattahoochee Technical College’s mission of preparing students for the local workforce in highdemand career fields, including construction.

Students at Mount Paran present the flags of the U.S. military branches.

Attending the presentation were, front from left, Jennifer Nelson, Christine Morris, Henry Hene and Darion Dunn; and, back from left, George Davis, Bion Jones, Nita Willard, Mike O’Brien and Jackie Willard.

NCCS Principal Megan Strange, left, and MPCS Principal Tawanna Rusk.

Around & About

JANUARY

Through Jan. 7

Recycle live Christmas trees (not flocked) during the Bring One for the Chipper event. Trees will be chipped into mulch and used for beautification projects, soil erosion prevention and lake, pond and water retention efforts in Cobb County. Remove all ornaments, lights and bases and drop off at one of these Home Depot stores: 3355 Cobb Parkway, Acworth, 770-917-8425; 2350 Dallas Highway, Marietta, 770-792-6858; 449 Roberts Court, Kennesaw, 770-424-1309; or 1655 Shiloh Road, Kennesaw, 770-421-1245. A limited supply of free saplings will be available from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 7 at the Cobb Parkway, Dallas Highway and Shiloh Road locations.

14

The Book Swap, 8-11 a.m., is a free media swap hosted by Kennesaw Parks & Recreation at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. Area residents can drop off gently used books, CDs, DVDs, vinyl records, etc. noon-8 p.m. Jan. 12-13 in exchange for tickets that can be redeemed for items brought by others. Items will be organized into fiction, children, teen, nonfiction, DVDs and CDs/vinyl categories. https://bit.ly/3BQCP3S

18

Volunteers are needed, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., for a privet pull to remove the nonnative, invasive plant, which outcompetes native species, at Leone Hall Price Park, 4715 Stilesboro Road, Kennesaw.

28

The Cobb Chamber’s 81st Annual Dinner returns to the Cobb Galleria Centre, with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m., dinner and program, including the presentation of the Chairman’s Awards and the Marietta Daily Journal’s Citizen of the Year, at 7 p.m. and entertainment at 9 p.m. For information, contact Michele Howard at 770-859-2345 or mhoward@cobbchamber.org.

28-29

Trains, Trains, Trains!, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., returns to the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. The museum’s biggest, most popular event of the year will feature the biggest model train display ever, train-themed activities and historic trains. www.southernmuseum.org, 770-427-2117

FEBRUARY

4

Valentine’s Dance Party , 6-9 p.m., will take place at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. https://bit.ly/3WA8GxE

25

Special Olympics Georgia will host the 14th annual Polar Plunge, 9:45 a.m.-1 p.m., at Cauble Park in Acworth. The Polar Plunge is one of the organization’s “coolest” and largest fundraising events. All proceeds will go to help provide 26,620 Special Olympics Georgia athletes with free yearround sports training. polarplungega.org.

Train enthusiasts won’t want to miss Trains, Trains, Trains!

About

THE BATTERY ATLANTA

The Battery Atlanta Walking Trail

A brisk walk can curb cravings, reduce stress and offer a healthy way to catch up with friends and family. Get active on the 1.5-mile loop circling the campus.

THE ART STATIONBIG SHANTY

www.artstationcobb.org.

Ongoing

Register for winter classes and workshops offered for kids, teens and adults. Current offerings for teens/adults include pottery, acrylic painting, drawing, quilting, guitar, piano, violin/viola, yoga and tai chi. For kids, there’s drawing, pottery, crafts, painting, guitar, piano, violin/viola, choreography and improv acting.

ART HOUSE HAPPENINGS

www.acworthartsalliance.org.

Through Feb. 15

Open submissions will be accepted for the “Inspired … A Moment in Time” exhibit, running March 4-April 15. Artist receptions are planned for March 4 and April 1, 4-7 p.m.

Through Feb. 24

The “Member Artist Exhibit” will feature works by Acworth Arts Alliance member artists. Artist receptions will be held Jan. 7 and Feb. 4, 4-7 p.m.

Ongoing Register for winter classes and workshops offered by the Acworth Arts Alliance. Classes and workshops for kids and adults take place at the Art House in downtown Acworth. acworthartsalliance.org/classes

KENNESAW PARKS

AND RECREATION

2529 J.O. Stephenson Ave. // 770-424-8274 www.kennesaw-ga.gov/parks-and-recreation

Mondays, Wednesdays

BSD Taekwondo, 6-7 p.m. through Feb. 27 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. Ages 6 and older will develop focus, self-control and confidence.

Tuesdays

Pottery: Hand Building and Wheel Class, 9-11 a.m., 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 5-7 p.m. through Feb. 14 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. Adults will learn the coil, pinch and slab methods of hand building then move on to wheel techniques.

Wednesdays

Pottery: Advanced Hand Building and Wheel Class, 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. through Feb. 15 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. Adults with one to two years of experience with pottery will improve skills, work on surface designs and techniques, and develop their artistic voice.

Thursdays

Pottery: Hand Building and Wheel Class, 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. through Feb. 16 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. Adults will learn the coil, pinch and slab methods of hand building then learn to throw pottery on the wheel.

Little Dragons Taekwondo, 5:30-6 p.m. through Feb. 16 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. This class teaches kids ages 4-7 about focus, self-control and discipline.

Karate for Adults: Practical and Applied, 7-8 p.m. through Feb. 16 at the Ben Robertson Community Center, 2753 Watts Drive. This class, for ages 20-70, balances traditional karate techniques with real-world self-defense applications.

Saturdays

BYOB (Beat Your Opponent Back), 5:30-6 p.m. through Feb. 11. Instructor Omar Welch will teach females and teens the skills needed to protect themselves from an attacker.

Cobb Photographic Society

Monochrome

Novice

Paul Shimek - First Place (Texting Ms. Hope) Paul Shimek - Second Place (Frozen Wave)

Joy Rogers - First Place (Now, Let’s Play My Way)

SocietyCongratulations to everyone who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for November was “Juxtaposition.” The guest judge was photographer Louis Tomsmeire. The Cobb Photographic Society is a club open to photographers of all skill levels. It meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.

Color

Kerry Maxwell - First Place (Aged)

Kerry Maxwell - Third Place (Predator and Prey)

Robert Hatch - Second Place (Small House, Big Rock)

Bradford Pear: Beauty or Beast?

BY RENAE LEMON

As I drive through northwest Georgia and into southeast Tennessee, I am amazed (and horrified) at all the Callery pear trees that have taken over the edge of the forests. Bradford pear ( Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’) is a spring-flowering tree that has been widely planted throughout the eastern United States for many years. Bradford, a common cultivar of the Callery pear, showcases rapid growth, dense foliage and showy white flowers and is relatively pest- and disease-resistant when compared to other pear cultivars. Those traits make it highly desirable for landscaping. As such, you can see many Bradford pears in Cobb County as specimen, screen and street trees.

The tree is a nonnative species that was imported to North America from east Asia during the 1960s. Because of its desirable attributes, many landscapers and homeowners planted it. At first, the trees were a huge success. However, it soon was discovered that as they matured, they became very prone to splitting. Unfortunately, trunk splits and limb loss often happen when a Bradford pear is 15 years old or older. Damage is even more likely when moderate ice and storm events occur. Additionally, the spring flowers of the Bradford pear are known to have a distinctive smell, which some folks describe as fishy.

Today, Pyrus calleryana and its cultivars are listed on several invasive plant lists in the Southeast. Although Bradford pears originally were bred as sterile and thornless, they cross-pollinate with other cultivars of Callery pears. Ripened fruit is eaten and disseminated readily by birds and small mammals. Deposited seeds result in thick, thorny thickets in open fields and

woodlands and along roadsides. The hybridized Callery pears often have thorns ranging from a quarter-inch to more than 2 inches long. This can make removal quite tricky.

Have you heard of privet pulls (pulling up a nonnative, invasive plant that outgrows native species)? Well, we now are hearing about Callery pear pulls, a fun event where folks gather at a particular park or invaded area and spend several hours pulling up these bad guys.

Moving forward, many landscape professionals are avoiding Bradford pears altogether in new plantings. We would like to encourage you to do the same. There are several native ornamentals that possess many of the traits that make Bradford pears appealing, including red buckeye ( Aesculus pavia ), eastern redbud ( Cercis canadensis ), downy serviceberry ( Amelanchier arborea ), white fringe tree ( Chionanthus virginicus ), various magnolias ( Magnolia spp. ) and various dogwoods ( Cornus spp. ).

TheMasterGardenerVolunteersof CobbCountysupportsthe Universityof GeorgiaCooperativeExtensionServiceandstrivesto improvethequalityof lifeinourcommunitybydeliveringresearchbasedhorticulturalinformation,educationalprogramsandprojects.

Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension.

Bradford pear trees produce beautiful white flowers in the spring.

Once Bradford pear trees get older, trunks begin splitting.

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January 2023

ACCOUNTING & TAX

Denson Pepper, CPA 7 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

Orcutt Law Offices 7 678-383-7857 www.orcuttlawoffices.com

Williams | Elleby 1 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com

CHIROPRACTIC

Eaton Chiropractic Cover, 28-29 770-429-9733 eatonchiropractic.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Kennesaw Business Association 38 www.kennesawbusiness.org

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue 56 770-272-6888 www.mostlymutts.org/volunteer

CLEANING SERVCES

Star Group Commercial 15 Cleaning Services, LLC 470-410-5472 www.stargroupcleanse.com

DENTAL

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

Hildreth Dental 5 770-424-1705 www.hildrethdental.com

EDUCATION SERVICES

Chattahoochee Technical College 45 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Georgia Trade School 47 www.georgiatradeschool.com

This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the Around Kennesaw magazine!

Kennesaw State University 11 College of the Arts www.kennesaw.edu

School of Rock West Cobb 7 470-795-2112 www.westcobb.schoolofrock.com

ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS

Georgia Food & Wine Festival 56 www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com The Southern Museum 33 www.southernmuseum.org

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Credit Union of Georgia Inside front 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org

Edward Jones, Deborah P. Flugstad 3 770-795-0885 www.edwardjones.com

FLORIST

Faith Designs Florist 15 770-425-6570 www.faithdesignsflorist.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

Winkenhofer Pine Ridge 45 770-422-7299 www.winkenhoferpineridgefuneralhome.com

HOME & GARDEN

Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 3 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com

Enhance Floors & More 31 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Towne Plumber 7 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

M. Jae Photography 41 www.mjaephotography.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Governors MedSpa & 25, 41 Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

Keller Williams Realty, Joannie Bates 13 Cell: 678-788-6465 Office: 678-631-1700 www.joanniebatessells.com

Linda Kennedy, American Eagle Mortgage Georgia Team 13 678-614-4653 www.ccm.com/linda-kennedy

SK Home Inspections 13 770-819-8453 www.skhomeinspection.com

RESTAU RANTS/FOOD Wasabi 5 770-515-9988 wasabisushiacworth.kwickmenu.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING

Cotton Mill Exchange 1 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

Golf Cars of Canton 23 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com

Mud Creek Market 3 770-799-8013 www.mudcreekmarket.com

SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES

DayBreak Village Back cover 770-218-6166 www.daybreakvillage.com

WIGS

Merle Norman Cosmetics 1 770-943-6447