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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Contents

32 & 33 On the Cover

Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine Drs. Ashley and Heath Trowell

October 2018

Photo by KariBeth Gentry, Hair and Makeup by Crystal Nix

Features

In Every Issue

14 Preserving History

Be a part of the conversation on how to breathe new life into the Hickory Flat Gym.

16 The Culinary Councilman

The proof is in the pudding, whether it’s Bill Grant’s latest kitchen creation or the city’s newest initiatives. Photos from the annual American Legionsponsored event, featuring rides and exhibits.

34 Friends Share a Sweet Hobby

Two Cherokee County beekeepers share their love of the complex insects.

40 It’s Fall, Y’all!

Get your fill of festivals, apples and Halloween candy by following our comprehensive guide.

Contributors

4 Around Canton

36 Don Akridge

8 Community News

43 Dr. Christopher Alvey

12 Celebrations

49 Christopher Brazelton

18 Everyday Angels 20 Downtown Canton Events 30 Downtown Canton Dining Guide

24 Cherokee County Fair

42 Rob’s Rescues 44 Ribbon Cuttings

35 Joshua Fuder 16 Bill Grant 27 Dr. James Haley 59 Barbara P. Jacoby 48 Dan Jape 56 Bryce Jones

46 Library Events

14 Bob Kovac

50 Community Calendar

26 Katie Lang

54 School News

58 Joseph Lemmo

62 Directory of Advertisers

34 Jackie Loudin 38 Stephanie Meredith 29 Dr. Scott Merritt

Advertising

Dr. Christa Nelms

Katherine Amick, Market Manager 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundCantonMagazine.com

Cliff Pace

@AroundCantonMagazine

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

@AroundCantonMag

60 Susan Schulz 52 Hannah Suh @around_canton

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

AROUND CANTON The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Canton/ Holly Springs/ Sixes

Letter From the Editor

What’s New

It’s time for some accountability, people. Remember the recycling letter from the editor I wrote in April? Well, let’s see how I’ve been doing. You know tasks are always better when you have to report to someone. It’s easier to exercise with a partner, lose weight in a support group, or have a doctor overseeing your progress toward better health. So, faithful Around Canton readers, you’re with me on this journey whether you like it or not. As I’ve gotten more interested in recycling, I’ve done a bit of research on the subject. I’d like to be a good steward in every area of my life: Drive the most efficient routes so I don’t waste gas; prepare just enough food for a meal and a leftover day; donate clothing I no longer wear. I don’t want to be wasteful. I’m proud to say I’ve done well. I haven’t made as many trips to the recycling centers as I thought I would, but that’s more a result of being empty nesters with less waste to disperse. Perhaps what makes me the most proud is the quality of our magazines at Aroundabout Local Media. Not only are you holding a beautiful, glossy publication that allows your community photos and ads to shine, but you can have the satisfaction in knowing it’s completely recyclable. Rather than me summing it up for you, read what the Waste Management website (www.wm.com) has to say.

Canton City Hall has relocated to 110 Academy St. The following services are available at the new location: building and safety; city clerk; communications and outreach; community development; engineering; finance; human resources; utility department, and public meetings. Municipal court will remain at 151 Elizabeth St.

Magazines are made from paper that's been buffed and coated to achieve a glossy appearance. Next, the paper is covered with a white clay that makes color photographs look more brilliant. The shiny appearance does not contaminate the paper at all. About 45 percent of magazines are being recycled today. Recycled magazines are used to make newspaper, tissues, writing paper and paperboard. Recycling just one ton of paper saves enough energy to power the average American home for six months, so don't be afraid to recycle your old magazines. It's the right thing to do. A Common Misconception Some consumers think glossy paper can't be recycled. That may have been true in the early days of recycling, but no longer. With today's recycling technology, nearly all community recycling programs accept glossy magazines and catalogs for recycling.

I spoke with Jessica Porter, chair of the Going Green committee at the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, who validates this information. She is a great resource for getting on board the green initiative, either for your company or personal goals. At www.cherokeechamber.com, under the programs tab, click on Going Green for a list of recycling centers and guidelines. It’s clear we all need to recycle more; let’s do what we can to raise that 45 percent to 100 percent. I’m on board, but I do have a problem. I want to hold on to my magazines. And judging from the calls and emails I get from our readers, so do you. Why don’t we call that a form of recycling … I think it falls under the reuse category. Let’s keep those issues on our coffee tables and refer to them again and again. But when it’s time to toss a few of the older issues, don’t hesitate to drop them in the recycling bin and know that you are making a difference. It's the right thing to do.

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

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Aspire Dance Arts has opened in Canton at 15 Laurel Canyon Village Circle. The studio has classes for preschoolers through adults who want to develop talents in dance, voice and theater. 770213-4130. www.aspiredancearts.com. The Archer Barbershop is open at 361 E. Main St. in Canton, inside Practically Perfect Day Spa and Salon. The entrance is through the salon’s back door. The barbershop is named after the family that built the historic building: the Archers. 770-704-5614. www.archerbarbershop.com. Big Door Vineyards a small “gold medal” farm winery, has opened at 125 Clearwater Trail, White, GA. The 10-acre vineyard, equipped for wine tastings, weddings and musical events, is 20 minutes from the perimeter and midway between I-75 and I-575. 844-692-4436. www.bigdoorvineyards.com.

Kudos! Reinhardt University’s Bill Popp has been named NAIA Athletic Director of the Year, a three-time recipient of the Appalachian Athletic Conference Athletic Director of the Year. Popp has been at Reinhardt for 14 years. The city of Holly Springs has received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2018 budget. City Manager/Finance Director Robert H. Logan was presented with the award, along with a certificate of recognition for budget presentation. The city also received this award for its 2010-2017 budgets.

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NVS-GA.com AROUND CANTON | October 2018

COMMUNITY BOARD

The Around Canton Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine and advisors who offer valuable feedback.

Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married

Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She was recently named the public outreach manager for the city of Canton, and continues to volunteer on numerous boards and committees. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren.

Dr. Christopher Alvey, an Owensboro, KY native,

graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, and earned a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 1988. He has owned and operated Cobb Central and Mobile Vet Services, and provided medical and surgical services as a relief veterinarian until he opened BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. Dr. Alvey and wife Kathy have two children, Jake and Madison, four dogs (Bogey, Allie, Lu-Lu and LeRoy) and two cats (Cartman and Aubie).

Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator. She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for more than 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well.

Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of

Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and lives in Woodstock with her son and daughter. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children.

Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Purposeful Play of Georgia, an organization that celebrates kindness and equips young leaders. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the executive board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. Dr. Oliver “Ollie” Evans is the chiropractor at Holly

Springs Chiropractic and Massage. The Cherokee county native attended Holly Springs and Sixes elementary schools and Woodstock Middle and High schools. His secondary education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and health science from Kennesaw State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Dr. Ollie serves as the team doctor for the KSU ice hockey team, is a USA hockey referee, and very involved in the CrossFit community. Dr. Ollie also serves on the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation and several other charity boards. 6

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Manager Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton, Holly Springs and Sixes areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 24,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 800 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 64 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Canton is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2018. Around Canton

1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189

For Advertising: Katherine Amick Katherine@aroundaboutmagazines.com or 678-279-5502

Volume 6, Issue 7

America’s Community Magazine

Expert Surgical Care for Cherokee County

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

COMMUNITY

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Cherokee County Grows at Fastest Rate in 10-County Region

Jeremy and Carrie Morton with their children Zeke, Madie and Abe.

First Baptist Woodstock Names Hunt’s Replacement First Baptist Church of Woodstock has named Jeremy Morton to co-pastor and work alongside Johnny Hunt as the church's longtime leader prepares to transition into a new role with North American Mission Board (NAMB), according to an announcement at www.fbcw.org. Morton, senior pastor at Cartersville First Baptist Church, will eventually succeed Hunt as senior pastor. Hunt will make the final call on when that transition will take place. Morton became the senior pastor of Cartersville First Baptist Church in the fall of 2013. Before that, he was senior pastor at Cross Point Baptist Church in Perry since the church's founding in 2002. Morton, who has been preaching since he was 16 years old, earned his bachelor's degree in Christianity from Brewton Parker College in 2004. He obtained his Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007, and once he completes his dissertation, will receive his Doctor of Ministry in Expository Preaching from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. In the beginning of 2019, Hunt will begin his fulltime position as senior vice president of evangelism and leadership at NAMB, where he will focus on equipping the current and next generation of pastors.

Cherokee DNOW 2018 Set for November Young people from churches throughout Cherokee County are participating in Cherokee DNOW 2018 on Nov. 9-10. DNOW, which stands for Disciple Now, is a gathering of youths from area churches, including First Baptist Canton, New Victoria Baptist, Church of the Messiah, Hopewell Baptist, and Hillside, Hickory Flat and Liberty Hill United Methodist churches. Cost is $40 per person. Register by Oct. 15 by contacting Darin Peppers at 770-289-2491 or darin@fpmetroatlanta.org. 8

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Cherokee County added 7,100 people in the past year and is growing at the fastest rate — percentagewise — in the 10-county Atlanta region, according to population estimates recently released by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). The county now has a population of 254,500. Cherokee has led the region’s counties in percentage growth since 2010. Cherokee’s growth continues a long-term trend in which the Atlanta region’s newer, outer suburbs have grown faster than older, inner suburbs. Cherokee grew by 2.9 percent between April 2017 and April 2018, and by 19 percent between 2010 and 2018 – both tops in the region. During the same time frame, Henry County, on the south side of the region, saw a 15 percent population increase. Population across the 10 counties has increased 11 percent since 2010 (compared with Cherokee’s 19 percent). Overall, the Atlanta region added 75,800 people in the past year, the second-largest increase since the Great Recession formally ended in 2010. The region’s growth was down slightly from a year earlier, when population increased by 78,300. The Atlanta region is now home to 4,555,900 people. Jobs growth fueled the region’s population boom. The 29-county metropolitan statistical area (MSA), as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau, added more than 41,000 jobs between April 2017 and April 2018, ranking seventh in the nation (among the top 12 MSAs ranked by number of jobs). “The Atlanta region had strong growth over the last few years as we emerged from the Great Recession,” said Mike Carnathan, manager of ARC’s Research & Analytics Group. “People are moving here because jobs are plentiful, and because metro Atlanta offers a great quality of life.” The ARC is the official planning agency for the 10-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale counties, as well as Atlanta and 73 other cities. The ARC serves as a catalyst for regional progress by focusing leadership, attention and planning resources on key regional issues. For more details about the ARC’s population estimates, check out its latest Regional Snapshot at www.atlantaregional.org.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Nonprofit Works to Help the Less Fortunate The BridgeMill-Sixes Service League (BSSL) is hosting several fundraisers this fall. Bingo Night takes place Oct 19 at 7 p.m. at the Terrace in BridgeMill. Enjoy food, fellowship and help raise money for charities supported by the BSSL. Cost is $20. Sign up for the event at www.bssl.org or call 678-493-8943. The BSSL will sponsor a Thanksgiving food drive to benefit clients of MUST Ministries in Canton. A bag will be delivered to every residence in BridgeMill the week of Nov. 5. Fill the bag with non-perishable items suitable for a Thanksgiving meal, and place the bag at the curb near the mailbox on Nov. 10 for 10 a.m. pickup. The service league is a nonprofit organization open to all women in Cherokee County age 21 or older. Funds are raised to support the less fortunate through events throughout the year. Monthly meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the activity center at 1180 BridgeMill Ave. www.bssl.org.

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Fire Rating May Impact Insurance Costs At an early September work session of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, Fire Chief Tim Prather presented the results of the recent Insurance Services Office (ISO) review. The fire department review was conducted earlier this year. Chief Prather said he was concerned with the anticipated results, but at the end of the day, the results were good. Near the end of this year, Cherokee County will lose is current Public Protection Class 3-3Y. Prather announced that effective Dec. 1, the new PPC will be Class-2/2Y. Prather emphasized that the credit for this success is to be given to his entire department. “It took each and everyone one of us working together and doing our part to reach this accomplishment. This is huge and history making for Cherokee County Fire,” Prather said. “This has been a continuing process since I became fire chief in 2011. That year, we obtained a county wide Class-5/9, which eliminated three separate ISO ratings throughout the county. After a review in 2014, we improved to a Class-3/3Y. It will be important for us to continue to keep up with the growth of this county to maintain this new PPC and hopefully in the future improve another step.” The ISO reviews all fire departments every three years. In general, the ISO has a classification system of Class-1 through Class-10. Class-10 is basically an area where fire suppression capabilities do not meet any kind of minimum requirement of ISO whereas as the Class-1 is the best rating that can be achieved. There are approximately 46,000 fire departments in the United States. Approximately 242 departments have achieved the Class-1 Status and 1,325 departments have obtained a Class-2. Cherokee County Fire now ranks in the top 4 percent of fire departments nationwide. As a result of this change, Prather recommends property owners check with their perspective insurance agents to determine if there will be any significant change with their insurance rates. Most insurance companies have their own specific process in determining rates. Current property owners that were being provided service by Cherokee County will see the change from Class-3 to Class-2. With the current consolidation of fire services with the city of Canton, the city residents will see a change from Class-4 to Class-2, which could mean a larger difference.

Congrats to the Newest Leaders

Class members included: Front row, from left: Jamie Gianfala, Cherokee County Marshal’s Office; Laura Smith, Hamilton State Bank; Ariana McPherson, Primrose School of Harmony on the Lakes; Kristi Estes, In Harmony Pediatric Therapy; Casey Geiger, Law Office of J. Christopher Geiger; Viktoriya Dubovis, Chart, Inc.; Leslie Sullivan, Northside Hospital Cherokee; Rachel Ashe, Cherokee County Office of the Solicitor General; Emili Roman, Georgia Probation Management; Shellie Hollingsworth, Hollingsworth & Company Real Estate; Amy Macy, WellStar Health System. Second row, from left: Aaron Vincent, Vincent Financial Group; Greg Clyburn, City of Holly Springs Rick Beaulieu, Cherokee County School District; Julie West, Cherokee County Clerk of Courts; Ryan McElwee, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services; Scott Deal, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services; Bill Smith, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office; Will Carlan, Carlan Law; Jennifer Puckett; In Harmony Pediatric Therapy. Not pictured: Jessica Carvalho, Woodstock City Church. 10

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Leadership Cherokee, a program of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, graduated its 30th anniversary class during a recent ceremony. Members selected two of their peers to receive special recognition: Viktoryia Dubovis received the Cristal Stancil Leadership Award, and Kristi Estes was given the Bob Frongillo Magic Spark Plug Award.

Any parent with young athletes knows that youth sports can get pretty intense. They train and play hard and sometimes that can lead to injuries. The Northside Hospital Cherokee Sports Medicine Program works with young athletes and local schools to help prevent and treat injuries. Our board certified orthopedic physicians are helping to keep athletes in our community playing the games they love. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Sports. AROUND CANTON |

October 2018

Celebrations!

Happy birthday, sweetie pie Piper!

GiGi and Pop-Pop LOVE you to the beach and back!

Happy 7th birthday, Grayson!

We love you very much! Mommy, Daddy, Walker and Colton

Happy 16th birthday, Parker!

Love, Mom, Dad, Cameron, Anna and Landon

Happy fifth birthday, Cayson!

Happy birthday, Madison!

Nicole Marie Rubin

Happy birthday, Gracie!

We love you, Mommy, Nana and Papa

Happy 16th birthday! We are so proud of the love you have for others. Keep shining His light. May your day be as special as you are to many. XO, Daddy, Mom, D, Joey and Chandler.

Celebrating October birthdays at The Lodge at BridgeMill From left: Dorothy Roth, Jacquie Gallagher, Lois Forbes, Richard Tuttle and Jean Heffernan. Camera shy celebrants: Dorothy Moore, Philly Holmes, Norma Jean Coffey, Marilyn Morris, Peter Irwin, Theresa Cerasoli, Gloria Schneider and Frank Ponticello.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

We love you! Mommy and Daddy, Dylan, Lyla and Colton

11 years old We are so proud of you, and love you so much, have a GREAT day! Love GiGi and Pop-Pop

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com November deadline is Oct. 10. Please specify Around Canton.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Community Meeting 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Hickory Flat Gym

A New Purpose

Bringing the Hickory Flat Gym Back to Life BY BOB KOVACS

Back in June, when the old gas station on the corner of East Cherokee and Highway 140 was being demolished to make way for a new retail development, there were a lot of upset people on social media saying that the “last piece of history” in Hickory Flat was gone. During those conversations, someone brought up the Hickory Flat Elementary School gym, saying it also was historic, and that it needed to be saved. Holly Springs Mayor Steve Miller and I both saw that discussion, and we did some research into the gym. The gym sits on the school board’s property, and was closed about 20 years ago when a new gym was built for the elementary school. The school board has maintained the building since then, to ensure it wasn’t damaged by the elements, and, while they had no plans to tear it down, they also didn’t have any plans to use it. Upon touring the building, we found it to be in excellent shape. The timber frame structure, which was cut on site and erected by local residents in 1950, was intact, and the hardwood court floor looked great. Time had done very little to hurt the building. The school board has agreed to lease the building to the county for $1 per year on a 50-year lease, and we currently are discussing 14

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

how best to repurpose the building to serve the Hickory Flat community. The general idea is to use it as a community center of some sort, whether that be as a meeting space, an event space, a place for training and classes to be held, a “maker space,” or something else that has yet to be determined. But, we’re talking with different groups to see what can be done. The building needs some renovations, with the biggest items being updating the restrooms and adding air conditioning. I believe it truly will be a great space for the community, once we get it back into use. We’re open to ideas. If you’ve got something you’d like to see in the space, please email me at bkovacs@cherokeega.com. We’ll likely hold some public input meetings in the near future to get input, as well. I’m looking forward to being a part of putting this piece of history back into use in the community where it has stood for so long.

Bob Kovacs is the District 3 commissioner for the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He and his family have lived in the Toonigh community since 2007.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID RUFF AROUND CANTON | October 2018

The

Culinary Councilman

The Proof is in the Pudding BY BILL GRANT

They say patience has its virtues, but that is easier said than done. Among all of the lessons I’ve learned serving on Canton’s City Council, patience is not only a virtue, it’s an absolute requirement. While government often moves at a slow pace, I am proud to begin seeing some very tangible evidence of the progress our mayor and council have made in the past few years. I could report on many projects and initiatives, but I will focus on a couple that have been in the works for several years. One of the most complex initiatives the city has tackled was the consolidation of the city’s fire department with Cherokee County. The process was painfully slow, challenging, emotional and, quite often, controversial. However, our city leaders and staff, along with those of Cherokee County, persevered and arrived at an intergovernmental agreement to ensure our taxpayers would receive the highest quality fire services at the lowest possible cost. It required hard choices by everyone involved. Most of all, it required political will to get the job done. Mayor Gene Hobgood, City Manager Billy Peppers, CFO Nathan Ingraham, Chief Dean Floyd, our council’s Fire Services Committee, and all council members rolled up their sleeves, set emotions aside and studied the data. The city was faced with buying several new fire engines, building new fire stations and expanding our fire staff at a great cost to our taxpayers or to consolidate. We chose the latter, and the transition has been professional and seamless, thanks to efforts on both sides. Fast-forward two years, and we recently got the great news that Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services has achieved an ISO rating of 2. This means city residents and businesses will see a reduction from our previous Class-4 to Class-2 which could mean a large difference in insurance costs. The Insurance Services Office (ISO) is a private corporation that evaluates industries for insurance rating purposes. There are approximately 46,000 fire departments in the U.S., and just over 1,325 departments have obtained a Class-2. This means Cherokee County Fire now ranks in the top 4 percent nationwide. Yes, the results were worth the wait! Another ongoing project is the former Cherokee County School District property in downtown, comprised of the former Mill Office and Canton Grammar School. When CCSD announced their plans to demolish the two historic buildings to build a new administrative office, the city intervened and negotiated a land swap for property at The Bluffs. Thanks to the efforts of many, we were able to secure a developer, the Harris Group, which agreed to restore the two buildings for adaptive reuse. At the time, this decision also was controversial. Many merchants were concerned about the loss of the downtown employees and its impact on their business. Others criticized the city’s decision to protect and preserve two buildings that were beyond repair. 16

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Last month, we celebrated the opening of Panera on the same property, and the new building was designed to blend with the historic aesthetics of the mill office and grammar school. Panera has been an overwhelming hit and yet another reason downtown Canton is becoming a dining destination. In addition to the healthy and sustainable food options and convenient online ordering, I am most excited to see all of the young people who are enjoying the new restaurant while working on their laptops or tablets throughout the day. Better yet, the new development also ensures the addition of 125 new public parking spaces for downtown customers and visitors. Again, these are just two examples of long-term projects and initiatives that are moving Canton forward. In both instances, they began with controversy due to the change they represented from known to unknown. Like all initiatives, we had to wait long enough to begin to see and study their impact on our city. In September, the council passed a new restaurant district ordinance for a well-defined area of downtown. Like others, it was not without controversy, especially since this initiative involved alcohol and the ability to walk around downtown with an open container of a single beverage. Many surrounding cities have similar districts, and some are even expanding them. As with any new program or ordinance intended to continue the ongoing revitalization of downtown, I am excited by the district’s potential to attract new businesses, especially retail, and encourage existing merchants to extend their hours to accommodate increased consumer activity. We have new people discovering our great city every day, and it’s not uncommon for them to experience long waits for the wonderful restaurants that now call Canton home. I also see this new district as an added amenity for our citizens who welcome this experience. Encouraging walkability is a key concept in our Canton Forward master plan, and we want as many people as possible to discover all of the amazing assets our downtown has to offer. continued on page 59

Bill Grant is a Canton city councilman and mayor pro tem. He is also president and chief creative officer of Grant Design Collaborative in downtown Canton.

Old Fashioned

Banana Pudding • • • •

4 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups sugar Pinch of salt 3 large egg yolks, separated

• • • • • • • •

3 cups milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 box vanilla wafers 6-7 bananas, very ripe 3 egg whites from reserved eggs 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(save egg whites for meringue)

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine flour, sugar and salt in a heavy saucepan. Lightly beat egg yolks and whisk with milk then add the egg and milk mixture to the dry ingredients in heavy saucepan. Cook over medium low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and smooth. Remove saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla. Crush or puree one to two very ripe bananas until smooth, then combine well with custard mixture. To build the banana pudding, place a single layer of vanilla wafers on the bottom of a 13x9 baking dish or other similar container. Slice remaining bananas, and place a layer on top of wafers. Pour 1/3 of custard over first layer of wafers and bananas. Repeat layering two more times until all of the custard has been used.

Meringue

Whip egg whites with a mixer at high speed. Once egg whites begin to foam, add cream of tartar and gradually add sugar one tablespoon at a time. Continue whipping until sugar is dissolved and stiff peaks have formed. Add vanilla and whip until thoroughly combined. Spread meringue over pudding, making sure to spread to the edges of the dish. Line edge of pudding with wafers to decorate like Mama always did. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly browned. Serve warm or chilled overnight. The next day is the best, if you have patience! AROUND CANTON | October 2018

EVERYDAY

Identifying people in need in our community.

Everyday Angels is honored to share the story of Towne Lake’s beloved Donley family, who, for the past 25 years, have blessed everyone they meet. Trent and Michelle Donley moved to Towne Lake in 1992 to begin their family. During the birth of their second child, Savannah, they learned she had severe challenges. At the time, there were no quick DNA tests to analyze her case. It took several days before Savannah was diagnosed with Trisomy 9, a rare chromosomal disorder in which the entire ninth chromosome appears three times (rather than twice) in some cells of the body during development. “There were less than 100 children diagnosed with this condition, so doctors didn’t give us much hope. When she was finally able to go home from the hospital, the staff literally gave us instructions on what to do when we found her unresponsive,” Trent said. “Aside from some challenges with seizures and pneumonia around her first birthday, Savannah began to thrive. While limited and slow in her physical and mental development, she was becoming very social. Determined to defy her odds, Michelle and I pursued nutritional support, advanced speech, physical and occupational therapies all over the Southeast to help our daughter advance and communicate beyond her capabilities.” The Donleys always wanted a big family despite potential risks. “We felt strongly that we wanted more children, and knew God would give us what he wanted us to have. I wouldn’t trade our decision for anything,” Michelle said. When their oldest daughter, Payton, was 4 ½ and Savannah was 3, Michelle gave birth to Sam, a healthy boy who is a junior at University of Alabama. In October 2001, they welcomed their fourth child, Jacob, who also was born with Trisomy 9. Jacob faced more challenges in his first year than did Savannah. “He has been hospitalized a few other times Savannah Donley. throughout his 16 years, but generally has been an active and happy child. Jacob has been greatly blessed by the trail that Savannah has blazed for him, and so many of his challenges seemed less daunting at the time, due to our experience with this disorder,” Trent said. Throughout the past 20 years, Savannah and Jacob and the entire Donley family have become well known within Cherokee County special needs programs with teachers, aides and transportation staffs. 18

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Trent and Michelle with Savannah, Sam, Payton and Jacob.

On Mother’s Day, the Donleys faced their greatest challenge and fear, as Savannah became lethargic and was rushed to the emergency room, experiencing a crash of her lungs, heart, liver and kidney functions. She was given a less than 50 percent chance of survival. “Each day at St. Joseph's began with a doctors huddle that felt a lot like being in an episode of ‘House,’ with each specialty bouncing different ideas on what might have caused the initial incident, and what would likely happen in the future. Savannah spent 27 days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where she received a tracheotomy and feeding tube, and then transferred to DeKalb Hospital Long Term Care (LTAC) hospital in attempt to wean her off the ventilator that kept her breathing,” Trent said. For 78 days, Trent and Michelle commuted to be with Savannah as they took turns caring for Jacob at home. Trent and Michelle had to take a leave of absence from their jobs for 13 weeks. On July 31, Savannah came home, where she is happy and has made improvements. She is still dependent on constant heart and oxygen monitoring, with one family member “on call” each night. Despite her improvements, she has a long way to go with breathing, eating, and overall strength and mobility. “Thankfully, Savannah has already had extensive experience defying those who have counted her out, and we are hoping to work to a full recovery and get her off this ventilator. We've been incredibly blessed with help from family, friends, and our church at Hillside UMC, throughout this crisis. Our oldest daughter, Payton, has commuted home from graduate school nearly every week since May, and assumed nearly full-time duties helping with her little

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sister. Michelle and I would likely have already dropped without her consistent and strong support,” Trent said. The Donley family is unique and exceptional. To witness their grace, unconditional love, patience and strength is awe-inspiring. You will never see anyone in this family sweating the small stuff. Everyday Angels would like to rally our compassionate community to provide relief for this precious family. Savannah's medical bills now total more than $750,000; out-of-pocket expenses for co-pays, caregivers and therapies total more than $5,000 monthly. If you have not made that charitable tax-deductible contribution this year, why not give and know where 100 percent of it is going? We also ask you to cover Savannah, Michelle, Trent, Payton, Sam and Jacob in prayer as they navigate this journey of Savannah's healing. "Savannah is a child of God, and labels and boundaries cannot change who he created her to be. She was put on this earth for a purpose, and she is not finished. She has work to do, smiles to share, joy to spread, and love to promote. Please pray that she continues to move forward," Michelle said. "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the Lord ..." Jeremiah 30:17 You may donate through Everyday Angels (501c3) or a gofundme site created by friends: www.gofundme.com/f9dhs-savannah-smiles. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@ gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

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IN Town

Canton Dumpster Days

8 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 6, Nov. 3, Dec. 1 at the Municipal Court Building, 151 Elizabeth St. Canton residents can bring trash, unwanted items, up to 10 tires per resident, and recycle many electronics free of charge. Visit www.cantonga.gov for more details.

Cherokee Arts Center 94 North St. • www.cherokeearts.org

Oct. 6-27: The Georgia Clay Council exhibit, with a reception set

Canton Historic Theatre 171 E. Main St. 770-704-0755 • www.cantontheatre.org

Oct. 12-21: “Are We All On Board?” by Steve Miller, presented by Broadway Bound Productions. The show is a cruise ship comedy and world premiere. For tickets and information go to www.broadwayboundproductionsinc.com or call 770-720-2698. Tickets are $15 for seniors and students, $18 for adults. Nov. 2-11: “Catfish Moon,” presented by Cherokee Theatre Company. The show is a Southern comedy about the friendship of three old friends. Tickets $15 for seniors and students, $18 for adults. Nov. 16-17: The Skillet Lickers, a fifth-generation band, is usually a sellout, so call early for tickets. Tickets are $12 for seniors and students. $15 adults.

for 6-8 p.m. Oct. 5.

Nov. 2: Members’ Art Show opens in the gallery of the Arts Center and Cherokee Photography Club Show on the stairwell showcase.

OCTOBER

5 by Canton Main Street, is held

First Friday in Canton, sponsored

6-9 p.m. and features live music, a car show, food and family activities. The October theme is Jeep Night, with music by Skipper Grace.

8-11

The Cherokee Family Violence Center will place silhouettes in Cannon Park as a remembrance of those who lost their lives due to domestic violence.

Farmers Market Continues every Saturday through October. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Family Fun Day 20 Cherokee and Children’s Health and

Safety Expo will take place at Brown Park in downtown Canton 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. Event features games, food, safety demonstrations and entertainment. Brews and Boos, 27 BBQ, 4-10 p.m. downtown Canton.

Vendors, music, barbecue trucks, trick or treating, ghost tours, kids area and more. Contact gary@bbqandbrews.com for more information.

The Cherokee Family Violence Center will hold a candlelight vigil, 7-8:30 p.m., in Cannon Park in memory of lives lost to domestic violence and in celebration of domestic violence survivors.

10 Homecoming Parade

Cherokee High School’s , which begins at 4:30 p.m. at the school, will end in downtown Canton.

Idea meets 7-9 17 Ap.m.Novel at East Main Cafe (inside Audio Intersection) at 210 E. Main St. October is the perfect month for a few scary stories. Listen to tales of being attacked by rabid dogs, encountering a terrifying killer with treacherous cyber skills, or when the dead just won’t shut up. No admission charge. Door prizes. BYOB.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

The theme of October’s Novel Idea is scary stories.

NOVEMBER

10 Inferno Chili Cookoff

Canton Main Street 2018 is scheduled for noon-3 p.m. Email pat.gold@cantonga.gov for entry form and details. Annual Veterans Day parade begins at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by the Thomas M. Brady American Legion Post 45.

Paws in the Pool PHOTOS BY ED SELBY

At the end of the outdoor swim season, and before the pool is drained, Cherokee County Aquatic Center holds its annual dog swim day. Four-legged fur friends are invited to join in the fun, and by looks of it, they did!

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Celebrating PHOTO BY REBEKAH GREGG

t has been 20 years since Michael Williams, with fresh degrees in hand and a successful residency under his belt, came to metro Atlanta looking for the perfect spot to start his career as an orthodontist. He and his wife Ginger heard Woodstock was the place to be and, after a few visits, they decided to put down roots in Towne Lake. In 2018, Dr. Williams has two practices in Cherokee County (Woodstock and Canton), each a destination where patients can expect excellent treatment, the latest technology and a fun experience. The waiting rooms offer TVs, video games and a coffee bar. There is always music playing and a fun contest underway. The connection Dr. Williams makes with his patients is a big reason families choose Williams Orthodontics. Kids love his positive and upbeat attitude, which is evident from the time they first meet him to the day they finish their treatments. A recent testimonial from a happy mom says it well: “Having two boys in braces at the same time can be stressful. However, everyone is so flexible and makes everything so easy and carefree, and your eagerness to please really takes the stress away.” “I’ve always tried to be cutting-edge, but the office also has to be a fun place to go, so that patients look forward to their appointments,” Dr. Williams said. “Nowadays, the kids have as much say-so as the parents when choosing an orthodontist. I love helping kids, and adults, have straighter teeth and more confident smiles.” Dr. Williams must be doing something

20 YEARS

of Fun and Smiles

right. It’s evident in the Aroundabout Local Media Readers’ Choice polls that he is a community favorite. Williams Orthodontics was chosen the top orthodontist in the Townelaker, Around Woodstock and Around Canton competition for the past three years, and has been the top choice of TowneLaker readers since the contest began almost 20 years ago. The orthodontist’s passion for creating beautiful smiles just keeps growing, and he’s constantly equipping his office with the most efficient tools to make correcting teeth as simple as possible. “We are totally computerized,” Dr. Williams said. “3-D X-rays, digital scanners, digital printers, and computerized charting and imaging streamline the orthodontic process.”

The Latest and Greatest

Good Impressions: Gone are the days of impressions made with goop that spills out over the sides and threatens to slide down the throat. With his i-Tero digital scanner and printer, Dr. Williams takes video images that are stitched together to make a 3-D image, or model, of the teeth. He uses those models to create clear retainers. 3-D X-rays: The I-CAT 3-D scanner uses low radiation to capture a 3-D radiographic image of the patient’s skull, showing the teeth, bone and airways. “We can see more detail than on a traditional 2-D X-ray, using lower radiation,” Dr. Williams said. “The I-CAT and i-Tero are the latest technologies in the industry. They aren’t just cool. They help us provide the most accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment.”

FOLLOW THE FUN!

DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Dr. Michael Williams Education • Bachelor of Science degree from Ole Miss. • Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry. • Hospital Dental Residency at the University of Alabama (UAB), where he received a certificate in Hospital/General Practice Dentistry. • Specialty degree in orthodontics from UAB. • Master of Science in Orthodontics from the UAB School of Dentistry.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Sponsored Content

Quality Treatment Dr. Williams leads a patient-centered office that strives for exceptional results and excellent customer service. He sees his craft as being as much an art as it is a science. “You have to have a vision in your mind, and the knowledge and experience to get the intended results.” To make sure he’s at the top of his game, Dr. Williams has gone through multiple testing processes and applications to earn certifications that will assure current and future patients get the best treatment possible. In addition to his educational accomplishments (see list of credentials), Dr. Williams is nationally certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. This certification is achieved by less than 30 percent of orthodontists. Membership in the Edward H. Angle Society, a prestigious, honorary orthodontic study group that trains and tests orthodontists, is another accomplishment that makes Dr. Williams proud. Dr. Williams also is a former president of the Georgia Association of Orthodontists. “Our goal is to develop a smile that is not only beautiful and natural-looking, but one that establishes proper health and function,” he said. “We maintain the highest level of care for our patients by being perpetual students and always striving to provide our patients with latest technologies and advancements in orthodontics.” To schedule a complimentary consultation, call 770-592-5554.

Offices WOODSTOCK

770-592-5554 145 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 201 Woodstock, GA 30188

CANTON

770-345-4155 205 Waleska Rd, Suite 1A Canton, GA 30114

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Lucy Pablo and Daniela Namos

Scenes from the 92nd annual

Cherokee County Fair PHOTOS BY BRITTANY WEIR PHOTOGRAPHY

Hosted by the American Legion Thomas M. Brady Post 45

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Games on the midway.

Autumn Young

Yuri and Bishop Hogue

Carson and Dylan Decker

Kylee Ghorly

Litzy, Lizbeth, Justin and Joscelin Delgado AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Assessing Your Risk of Cancer BY KATIE LANG, MS, CGC

At-home DNA kits are more popular than ever. You can learn where your ancestors are from and find distant cousins and other long-lost relatives. Much can be learned from creating your family tree, especially if you include a family health history. Ten percent of all diagnosed cancers are inherited. If your family has a history of cancer, you now have the power to learn more about hereditary cancer risks for you and your children. What is hereditary cancer? It’s when there are mutations (changes) in specific genes that are passed down from either parent. These mutations greatly increase a person’s risk of developing certain types of cancer. There have been dozens of genes discovered that can increase a person’s risk to develop cancer. If a mutation in a cancer-causing gene is identified within a family, it has the potential to help the entire family better understand their risks and be proactive. It could also help those individuals in the family who did not inherit the mutation, since these genes are passed down only 50 percent of the time. If you have a strong family history of cancer, genetic testing can help you assess your personal risk and make a decision regarding preventive measures and access earlier or more frequent cancer screenings. Testing can provide information on risks for a wide range of cancers including breast, colon, prostate, ovarian and uterine cancers. And women aren’t the only ones who should consider genetic testing. Men can inherit and pass on these genetic mutations. In fact, 50 percent of all mutation carriers are men even though they are tested at far lower rates than women. It’s important to note that a genetic test does not diagnose cancer. It can only give you risk information – tell you about gene mutations that you have that increase your risk of developing cancer. Genetic counseling is recommended before and after any genetic testing to help you learn the implications for the results you receive and options for next steps. Part of the consultation includes the cost of testing. Many people don’t realize that the cost for testing dropped considerably in recent years, and it may be covered by insurance. Knowledge is power, and genetic testing can be the first step to taking action against your cancer risk.

Katie Lang, MS, CGC, is a certified genetic counselor and coordinator of the Cancer Genetics Program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. 404-851-6284. northside.com/cancer-genetics-program.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

General Cancer Support Group A general cancer support group meets at 12:30-2 p.m. on the third Wednesday each month in the Galleria at Northside Hospital Cherokee, 450 Northside Cherokee Blvd. The hope is to eventually add a breast cancer support group, according to Christy Andrews, executive director of Cancer Support Community Atlanta, a division of Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. For more details, visit www.cscatlanta.org.

Catch It Early

Five types of breast cancer screenings. BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

One out of every eight women will have breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection is THE key to fighting cancer. If breast cancer is caught in the beginning stages and before it spreads beyond the breast, the five-year survival rate for women is 99 percent. (Data: American Society of Clinical Oncology) The screenings are simple. There are several types, so you want to discuss the best option with your doctor and select the one that is right for your situation. These are the most common choices.

• Mammograms. The most frequently recommended type of breast cancer screening, they require the use of X-rays. Mammograms can show the early stages and late stages of tumors through X-ray imaging. It is recommended that women 40 years old or older have mammograms every one to two years. • Clinical breast exams. This type of screening checks for abnormalities and lumps in the breasts without invasive tools. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network shares that the breasts and underarms are usually part of an annual examination. • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI relies on magnetic fields to generate images. This is considered to be a more invasive procedure and is reserved for high-risk patients who meet strict criteria, such as those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, when the standard diagnostic testing has failed to give a conclusive answer, etc. • BRCA testing. This test helps determine your genetic risk for breast cancer. This type of screening looks for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations that increase the risk of having breast cancer. This screening is often offered as an option for patients who are at specific high risk for cancer. • Thermography. This procedure uses a camera with heat-sensing technology to create a map of your breasts. Changes in temperature in the tissue can be a sign of tumors. This is another less invasive screening option. Breast cancer kills 40,000 women every year, but screenings can help with early diagnosis and increase the rate of survival. An annual exam and screening to check for breast cancer is recommended. You can discuss the best exams and tests with your doctor, to feel confident about your screening choices. Whatever you do, don’t delay your annual exam.

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

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Describe your business. •Aspire Dance Arts is a new dance and performing arts studio coming to Canton in October

2018. Classes will be offered for ages 2 through adults in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical/ contemporary, pointe, musical theater and acro dance, as well as private voice lessons and Broadway master classes. In addition to providing a well-rounded education for students in the performing arts, Aspire Dance Arts prides itself on promoting an active healthy lifestyle, while encouraging important values such as commitment, work ethic, respect, accountability and teamwork, all while learning in a fun environment and making new friends.

What makes your business unique? •Aspire Dance Arts was created “for those who dare to dream” by husband and wife

team Jamie and Christine Newnham. The pair has more than two decades of performance experience in the industry as well as degrees in dance education and the performing arts. Whether students want to train recreationally or aspire to dance on Broadway one day, Aspire Dance Arts has a place for them. Students will enjoy learning in the brand new facility with sprung marley floors, as well as the soundproof vocal studio. Jamie and Christine look forward to sharing their passion and experience with their students.

15 Laurel Canyon Village Circle Canton, GA 30114

770-213-4130 Hours: 2-9 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays aspiredancearts/ Aspire_Dance_Arts www.aspiredancearts.com Enrollment has begun and classes are starting to fill up! Register online today at www.aspiredancearts.com.

Perimeter North

Medical Associates

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

Haroon Mian, M.D.

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

NEW Location! 10515 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 200 Canton, GA 30114 Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 770-395-1130 to schedule an appointment PNFM.com 28

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Leslie Jackson, NP-C

Tips for a Safe Halloween BY SCOTT V. MERRITT, DMD

Halloween is certainly one of the most fun nights of the year for Cherokee County families. Children get to enjoy a little extra freedom to run the neighborhood with friends and be as loud as they want to be. And parents have the opportunity to get together with neighbors to talk football, the new school year, or their best memories from Halloweens past. However, Oct. 31 does have its downsides, especially when it comes to oral health. Two of the most noteworthy are eating too much of the wrong candy, and suffering a mouth injury. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a safe and fun Halloween.

• Avoid long-lasting candies.

The most problematic treats are typically chewy ones that stay on teeth longer and dissolve slower (e.g. taffy or caramel). Conversely, chocolate tends to dissolve relatively fast.

week. Donating the remaining candy to our troops or a local food bank is a great option.

• Be aware of surroundings.

On Halloween, the number one injury to the mouth is typically caused by blunt force, usually due to a fall or running into a stationary object. It’s very common for children to run away from ghouls and monsters with their heads turned, only to collide with something that does significant damage to the teeth, lips and other oral tissue. Be sure to emphasize to your kids how important it is to look where they are going. If you are considering donating your candy, the Halloween Candy Buy Back program is a great option. Families can take candy to a participating dental office, which has arranged to send it to our overseas military service men and women. Participants usually receive cash or gifts for the candy they donate. Happy Halloween!

• Choose a few favorites.

Many experts recommend letting children pick out a small number of favorites from the treat bag. Some may be eaten on Halloween night, while the rest may be enjoyed over a longer period, such as after school for one

Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

DOWNTOWN CANTON DINING GUIDE Your complete guide to casual and upscale sit-down dining in downtown Canton Downtown Kitchen 140 E. Marietta St. 770-479-1616 thedowntownkitchen.com

Steak & Seafood

SPIRITS RESERV.

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

East Main Café Coffee, Tea $ 210 E. Main St. Baked goods 770-670-9333 Facebook/EastMainCafe

closed

Goin’ Coastal 125 W. Main St. 770-479-3737 goincoastalseafood.com

Seafood

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

Craft Beer Street Tacos Pub food

n/a

Beer

Local on North Eatery & Bar Sunday $ $$ 170 North St. Brunch 770-213-8970 Noon-3 localonnorth.com

open

Full bar

yes

Mamma Onesta’s Italian Italian no 250 E. Main St. 678-880-7770 mammaonesta.com/canton-ga

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

$$$

closed

Full bar

yes

closed

Green Line Brewery 192 E Main St. 770- 213-4420 www.greenlinebrews.com

Queenie’s 151 W. Main St. 770-213-4897 eatatqueenies.com R&M Sandwich Shop 117 W. Main St. 770-479-4413 Look for R&M on Facebook.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Southern no $$ Cooking

Custom-made Sandwiches

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

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY

Proper Protection Can Save Your Hearing BY DR. CHRISTA NELMS

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the leading causes of permanent hearing loss, but it is 100 percent preventable if you take the correct measures. Ten million of the 40 million individuals who have hearing loss have been diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss, according to the American Speech and Hearing Association. When an individual is exposed to a noise, as loud as a lawn mower, for more than 8 hours at a time, permanent damage most likely has occurred. The louder the noise, the less exposure time is needed to cause hearing loss. There are two primary types of hazardous noises: occupational noise, meaning factory or mechanical work, and recreational noise, like lawn equipment, loud music, power tools, firearms, motorcycles, etc. Unfortunately, there are unexpected noises that are difficult to predict, such as a loud explosion, or even a child’s toy. Studies have shown some children’s toys can emit sounds up to 120 dBA, which equates to the level of a jackhammer. Once the ear has been exposed to these sounds longer than the recommended exposure time, the tiny hair cells in the inner ear become damaged, and are unable to recover. This has an effect not only on one’s ability to hear sounds, but also on the ability to understand speech. NIHL also may present as a temporary threshold shift (TTS) after exposure to excessive

levels of noise. A TTS is a hearing loss that will recover over time, after exposure to the noise has ended. Research has shown that repeated TTS eventually leads to a permanent threshold shift. We live in a noisy world that does not seem to be getting any quieter. It is up to you to be aware of the noises around you and protect your ears. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides several strategies to help prevent noise induced hearing loss. • Become educated on the noise levels around you and the effect they can have on your hearing. There are even smartphone apps to help you measure environmental noise levels. • Use hearing protection and limit sound exposure time. You always can increase the distance between yourself and hazardous noise, which reduces the intensity of damaging sound delivered to your ears. • Remember to protect those who are young, and inform family and friends of the dangers. • Have your hearing tested annually by a doctor of audiology.

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

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Drs. Heath and Ashley Trowell

PHOTO BY KARIBETH GENTRY HAIR AND MAKE-UP BY CRYSTAL NIX

Medical Care,Aes

o you find yourself longing for the days when doctors made house calls? Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine offers a 21st century version of that hyperpersonalized service. It’s called concierge medicine. And, if you are thinking you’d like to pursue aesthetic services under the same roof as your medical appointments, Doctors Heath and Ashley Trowell have you covered there, too. The Acworth physicians have created a one-stop shop that caters to each patient’s schedule, whether it’s a medical need or aesthetic service. With no hidden fees or insurance worries, families can avoid the wait in urgent care during the upcoming cold and flu season, and know that a session with a doctor is just a Skype or phone call away as families travel during winter break.

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

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The options at Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine allow patients to maintain their busy lifestyles with the confidence that, no matter where they are — on the neighborhood ballfield or away on an exotic vacation — medical attention is just a phone call away. Doctors Heath and Ashley Trowell established the Acworth practice in 2017 to provide innovative and personal medical care, as well as the latest in medical spa services. Angela and David Camp are patients who lead an active life and appreciate the benefits of a concierge medicine plan. “My husband travels a lot, and I’m a real estate broker,” Angela said. “For people who are busy, and who travel, I think it’s the absolute best thing you can do. The plan provides for constant care, no matter where you are, even covering emergencies that would ordinarily require a trip to the emergency room.”

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BODY CONTOURING Skin Tightening • Fat Elimination Cellulite Reduction • Vaginal Rejuvenation Scar Reduction • Laser Hair Removal Medical Weight Loss • Vein Reduction

REJUVENATION PRP Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Stem Cell Injections Hair Restoration

Save the Date! Oct. 18: Learn about Dysport Check out social media for times and updates. www.governorsmedicine.com. AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Nothin’ Sweeter Than Local Honey BY JACKIE LOUDIN

Did you know that bears don’t raid beehives for the honey? I didn’t either. It turns out, bears are looking to consume the bees’ larvae, which are good sources of protein. The honey is merely a sweet byproduct of their foraging. That’s what I get for basing my knowledge of bees and bears on Winnie the Pooh. On the other hand, Bobby Thanepohn and Ryan McDonald (aka Mac) of Cherokee County have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to honeybees. They are apiarists, a fancy word for beekeepers. Both are University of Georgia certified beekeepers, and members of the Georgia Beekeepers Association and the Cherokee and Forsyth Beekeepers Club. The two have been friends since 2003, and enjoy hunting and riding motorcycles together. While sitting around a campfire on a hunting trip, the conversation revealed that each had started keeping bees. Since neither one likes to do anything halfway, they went all in, and soon realized they were about to have a whole lot of honey. “Our primary reasons for getting into beekeeping were the cool, sciency, animal-husbandry, entomology, gardening aspect of it,” Bobby said. "Then, the beehives grew. They grew organically, and the natural byproduct was honey.” Once they had given gifts of honey to all their friends and family members, the two

decided to sell the surplus honey at the Canton Farmers Market. That’s where you can find Bobee MacBee's most Saturdays, sharing their love and knowledge of all things related to honey and honeybees, with anyone who will listen. There’s one thing they want to stress: “Get into it for the bees, not the honey.” During my visit to their hives, Bobby and Mac made sure I learned a few things about keeping bees. I now feel smarter than even the most average of bears.

Fun Bee Facts

• Honeybees will fly up to 3 miles from the hive, or a 28-square-mile radius, in search of good nectar sources: dandelions, blackberries, clover. The bees will focus on a favorite source until it’s exhausted, often flying past something closer to the hive. • In the winter, bees disconnect their muscles from their wings. This renders them unable to fly, but still able to vibrate their wings, in order to generate heat for the hive. • Bees prefer a small window of temperatures in the hive - from the midto high 90s - and they will fan their wings and cluster to keep the temperature constant, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, no matter if it is 100 or -10 degrees outside. • Once the queen lays an egg, it takes three days for it to hatch into a larva. On day 21, a working bee emerges, and its first job is to clean its own cell.

Below, inspecting the frames is an important part of keeping a hive healthy.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

The owners of Bobbee MacBee's showed Jackie how to safely hold bees in the palm of her hand.

• The lifespan of a bee in the springtime is only a few weeks. • Bees use stored honey for food to sustain them through the winter. • There are three kinds of apiarists: hobbyist (own less than 100 hives), sideliner (100-300 hives) and commercial beekeeper (300+ hives). Bobby and Mac are hobbyists. • The answer to every beekeeping question is: “It depends.” Many factors affect a hive’s ability to thrive. Eating local honey often is acknowledged by health advocates as a good way to tackle seasonal allergies. It’s important to find a local beekeeper as a source for honey, since most grocery store honey is not local, and has been heated and filtered, removing valuable enzymes and nutrients. If you can’t be a beekeeper, there are ways you can assist the honeybee population: plant flowering trees and shrubs in your yard, avoid pesticides, don’t mow as often, allow clover and dandelions to grow. While some of these suggestions may not be popular with your homeowners association, you can plant a small section of wildflowers or try container gardening as an alternative. Visit bobbemacbees.com for more information or search Facebook or Instagram: Bobbee MacBees.

The Biology of the Honeybee BY JOSHUA FUDER

A mosaic of colors is created from the various pollens the honey bees gather. Photo courtesy of Bobbee MacBee's.

Bobby Thanepohn (left) and Mac McDonald are UGA certified beekeepers.

In May, I attended the Young Harris College-University of Georgia Beekeeping Institute. While I am not a beekeeper, I also am not a novice to beekeeping. In my role as a UGA Cooperative Extension county agent, I have a number of friends in various bee clubs. I even have two hives that a friend keeps at my house. In my two days at the institute, I learned that there is much more to these amazing creatures than most people realize, and I wanted to share my newfound bee knowledge. Bees have three body segments: head, thorax and abdomen. The head has five eyes; there are two on the side and three small eyes that look like dots on the top of the head. These three eyes are more like light sensors so the bee knows which way is up. These light-sensing eyes can get bees into trouble in snowy areas. They sometimes exit the hive when snow is on the ground, and if the reflected light from the ground is brighter than the sky, the bees will fly upside down before crashing into the snow. The thorax, the bee’s power center, is the location of the bee’s four wings and six legs. There are many bee look-alikes in the insect world. One way to distinguish a bee from a fly is the bee’s four wings. Flies only have two wings. The abdomen houses the internal organs, and the stinger is located at the base of the abdomen. The abdomen has seven segments and contains eight waxproducing glands. Wax is secreted in liquid form through segments four through seven until it cools and hardens. After it hardens, the hive workers collect it and form the hive’s cells. These wax scales are 3 millimeters across and 1 millimeter thick. It takes about 1,100 scales to make 1 gram of wax. Bees, like butterflies and moths, go through a complete metamorphosis, which includes egg, larva, pupa and adult life stages. With honeybees, what interested me was the time it takes them to progress from egg to adult. A queen completes this in as little as 16 days, whereas a worker, the female sister, takes 21 days. A drone, the male brother of the queen, takes 24 days. The difference is based on survival. When a colony needs to replace a queen, they must replace her fast so egg-laying can continue. It takes only three days for an egg to develop into a larva. A bee larva looks like a small grub or maggot. It is white in color, nestled into a cell and has no legs or eyes. During this stage, it increases 900 times in weight. But how can it grow this fast, molting its skin six times, if it is blind and immobile? The worker bees feed these voracious little eaters, making approximately 1,300 visits each day to feed them and clean their cells. After bees become adults, they have various roles in the hive. While we may think they leave the cells and start flying to flowers, only the oldest adults at the end of their lives are seen in gardens. The bees begin their adulthood as homebodies, working on important jobs like cleaning and capping cells, basically acting as the hive’s sanitation department. After they graduate from these tasks, they move to brood tending, comb building, grooming and food handling. It is not until around day 15-20 of their adult life that they begin outdoor tasks, like ventilating and guarding the entrance to the hive. An adult bee’s first foraging flight usually is not until about day 20. In the summer, most bees live only 35 days. Foraging flights are dangerous business given all the hazards: lawnmowers, windshields, birds, spiders and other predators. It makes sense that this is a task for the older, disposable bees.

Joshua Fuder is the agriculture and natural resources agent with UGA ExtensionCherokee County. Joshua lives on two acres in Canton, where he keeps a large vegetable garden, composts, maintains two beehives and cares for 30 fruit trees.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Tax Changes Around the Home

How the tax cuts and jobs act impacted three popular deductions. DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Three recent tax law changes impact homeowners and home-based businesses. They may affect your federal income taxes this year. The SALT deduction now has a $10,000 yearly limit. You now can deduct only up to $10,000 of some combination of (a) state and local property taxes or (b) state and local income taxes or sales taxes, annually. (Taxes paid or accumulated due to trade activity or business activity are exempt from the $10,000 limit.)1, 2 If you have itemized for years and are continuing to itemize this year, this $10,000 cap may be irritating, especially if there is no state income tax or a very high state income tax where you live. In the state of New York, for example, taxpayers who took a SALT deduction in 2015 deducted an average of $22,169.1, 2 Connecticut, New Jersey and New York recently passed laws in reaction to the new $10,000 limit, essentially offering taxpayers a workaround – cities and townships within those states may create municipal charities through which residents may receive property tax credits in exchange for charitable contributions.2 So far, the Internal Revenue Service is not fond of this. IRS Notice 2018-54, released in May, warns that “despite these state efforts to circumvent the new statutory limitation on state and local tax deductions, taxpayers should be mindful that federal law controls the proper characterization of payments for federal income tax purposes.” Both the IRS and the Department of the Treasury are preparing rules to respond to these state legislative moves.2, 3 The interest deduction on home equity loans is not quite gone. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act seemed to suspend it entirely until 2026, but this winter, the IRS issued guidance noting that the deduction still applies if a home equity loan is arranged to help a taxpayer “buy, build or substantially improve” the involved house. So, you may still deduct interest on a home equity loan if your receipts

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

show that the borrowed amount is used for a new 30-year roof, a kitchen remodel, or similar upgrades. Keep in mind that the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act lowered the limit on the total home loan amount eligible for the interest deduction each year – it is now set at $750,000. That cap applies to the combined home loans a taxpayer takes out for both a primary and secondary residence.1, 4, 5 The home office deduction is gone, unless you are selfemployed. Before 2018, if you dedicated an area of your home solely to business use and defined it as your principal place of business to the IRS, you could claim a home office deduction on Schedule A. This was considered a miscellaneous itemized deduction. Unfortunately, the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act did away with miscellaneous itemized deductions. If you work for yourself, though, you still can claim the home office deduction using Schedule C, the form used to report income or loss from a business activity or a profession.5 Are you strategizing to maximize your 2018 federal tax savings? Are you looking for ways to legally reduce your federal and state tax obligations? Talk to a financial professional to gain insight and plan for this year and the years ahead. Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. continued on page 59

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

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Living With Down Syndrome An article about Stephanie Meredith appeared in a recent issue of the Brigham Young University magazine, in a feature that recognized the service of one graduate in each of the 50 states. Since October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, we asked Stephanie to share her story. BY STEPHANIE MEREDITH

When my husband and I found out that our son Andy was born with Down syndrome 18 years ago, we were overwhelmed 23-year-olds who were worried about the future ahead of us. We wondered: Would people be kind to Andy? Would he be able to go to college or work or get married someday? We had so many concerns, and we were so fortunate that the day after our son was born, a woman who worked at the hospital showed us a photo of her son with Down syndrome and gave us a book. She helped us see that life could be happy and fun with our new baby. Unfortunately, we found out later that many other parents learning about the same diagnosis were not receiving the same kind of support and information. They often were given outdated or inaccurate information. Since that time, I’ve worked to provide support for new and expectant parents and create accurate, up-todate Down syndrome materials, which can be found at our National Center for Prenatal and Postnatal Resources where I work, at the University of Kentucky (Lettercase. org and downsyndromepregnancy.org). Our program has helped tens of thousands of families over the past decade to see what life with Down syndrome and other conditions looks like. Over a year ago, our son said he wanted to work at Publix, and took off on his bike to go apply for a job while I was cooking dinner. When I realized he’d left, I drove off in a panic to go pick him up. While I was driving, my husband called and cut through my frantic haze saying, “Could you have imagined when he was born that our biggest challenge at 16 would be that he took off on his own to go apply for a job?” Indeed. Publix was so impressed with his initiative that he was hired shortly thereafter, and I’m so proud of my teen son, who has worked for over a year, earned his Eagle Scout from Troop 50 of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, goes to every school and church dance with a wonderful crew of friends, and plans on going to a Kennesaw State University program for students with disabilities after he graduates from Woodstock High School in 2019. Our life truly is fun with all three of our children, and we are dedicated to supporting other families just beginning their journey. 38

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Local Resources

Stephanie Meredith recommends the following groups for support.

Gigi’s Playhouse in Atlanta, Roswell: https://gigisplayhouse.org/atlanta

Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta: http://www.dsaatl.org Parent to Parent of Georgia: http://p2pga.org

Prom-goers, back row from left: Kate Meredith, Caleb Travis, Julia Cordner, Nels Schultzke, Kaylee Isaksen and Andy Meredith. Front row, Chris Isaksen and Spencer Schweiger.

Top 3 Truths About Down Syndrome

People with Down syndrome are individuals with their own strengths and challenges, like everyone else. Andy is an amazing photographer and bike rider, but reading and math are harder for him. Others of his friends with Down syndrome are reading at grade level but may struggle with speech. One thing they have in common is that opportunities continue to improve for all of them.

2. 3.

Most parents and siblings of children with Down syndrome say their children have a positive impact on their entire family and increase their empathy for others.

There are more than 200,000 people living with Down syndrome in the U.S., and about 5,000 babies are born with Down syndrome each year, according to Meredith, who points to www. downsyndromeinfo.org for more details. “Our national program that supports new and expectant parents learning about a diagnosis of Down syndrome is the National Center for Prenatal and Postnatal Resources at lettercase.org and downsyndromepregnancy.org. “Based on a population of about 247,000 and an occurrence rate of about 1:800, there are probably about 300 people with Down syndrome in Cherokee County, but we don’t have solid numbers on that. The Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta has a community group in Cherokee County; Gigi’s Playhouse has a center in Roswell; and FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress) has a Woodstock support group for parents (https://focusga.org/how-focus-can-help-you/comfort/ support-groups).”

Below, Andy and Stephanie Meredith in 2000. Photo by Justin Meredith.

People with Down syndrome can have bright futures, including meaningful employment, college and marriage, when given opportunities and supports.

3 Ways to Value People With Down Syndrome

1. 2.

If you know parents who have a baby with Down syndrome, tell them, “Congratulations,” and offer to listen. Never say, “I’m sorry.”

People with Down syndrome want friends and relationships, just like everyone else. So, invite our children over for parties, play dates and library field trips to start friendships that last a lifetime. These relationships can be meaningful and fulfilling on both sides.

Be understanding about challenges, and encourage people with Down syndrome to reach their potential. Take the time to listen, teach and be patient, then sincerely congratulate their achievements and nurture their talents. AROUND CANTON | October 2018

If you fill your calendar with the activities that we’ve listed here, fall will come and go before you know it. Enjoy!

I n C h e ro k e e

Oct. 1-31

Oct. 20

streets with creative scarecrows decorated by area businesses, schools and nonprofit organizations. Vote for your favorites at Dean’s Store at 8588 Main St.

downtown Canton. Admission is free. Event features games, food, safety demonstrations and entertainment.

Scarecrow Invasion in downtown Woodstock will line the

Oct. 6

Holly Springs Autumn Fest is set for 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at

Barrett Park and will feature local arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, an entertainment stage and a kids zone with inflatables, rock climbing wall and double trampoline bungee. www.hollyspringsga.us.

Oct. 13

The Great Pumpkin Fest & Fun Run begins with the run at 9

a.m. at Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Parkway, Canton. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m. $15 to register, open to all ages. Festival begins at 10 a.m. with bounce houses, rope maze, petting zoo, craft show, food trucks, etc. Bring your own pumpkin to launch from a trebuchet. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net. Fall festival at Carmel Elementary School, noon-4 p.m., with bounce houses, carnival games, raffles and food. www.carmelpta.org.

Georgia Zombie Fest 5K Walk, Run, Creep or Crawl and

1-Mile Fun Run for all ages begins with registration at 5:30 p.m., 1-miler at 6:30 and 5K at 7 p.m. A virtual 5K is available for those who can’t attend the event. More details at www.georgiazombiefest.com.

Oct. 19

The fourth annual Bobcat BOOgie Fun Run and 5K, 6-8:30 p.m., starts and finishes behind Bascomb Elementary School. Event includes food, costume contests and more. To register, visit Active.com and search Bobcat BOOgie 5K.

Oct. 20

Georgia Zombie Fest will take over downtown Woodstock

noon-9 p.m. Last year’s event drew about 8,000 fans to enjoy the live music, contests and zombie face painting. Sponsored by Cherokee FOCUS, a nonprofit that helps children and families in our county. Admission: adults $5, children age 11 and younger free, families up to six people, $20. www.cherokeefocus.org. 40

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Cherokee Family Fun Day and Children’s Health and Safety Expo will take place 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Brown Park in

Oct. 26

Light Up the Night Community Fall Festival, 6-9 p.m. at the Cherokee Charter Academy, 2126 Sixes Road, Canton. Free entry, tickets for booths and inflatables, food and entertainment. www.ccaptc.org.

Oct. 27

Trick-Or-Try-It Halloween Open House is 1-3 p.m. at the

Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Gresham Mill Parkway, Canton. No admission cost. Programs to try include swim lesson evaluations (all ages), swim team tryouts (ages 5-18), PNO/camp craft room for kids, yoga (ages 15 and older), log rolling (ages 5 and older), water aerobics (ages 15 and older) and more. Visit www.crpa.net for more details.

Y Halloween Festival, 1-5 p.m., at the Cherokee Outdoor YMCA, 201 E. Bells Ferry Road. Hayrides, climbing tower, costume contest, trunk-or-treat, games, bounce houses and more. Rain date Oct. 28. No charge. Halloween festival in downtown Canton, in conjunction with the season’s last farmers market, includes a DJ; trick or treating with farmers, market vendors and downtown businesses; and a costume parade and costume contest. Farmers market hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Trunk or Treat 5K/1K at Etowah River Park offers a safe, healthy alternative to traditional Halloween activities. Event includes races as well as face painting, food trucks and trunk or treat after the race. Register at www.active.com.

Oct. 31

KidsFest is 3-8 p.m., featuring trick or treat activities for the

younger ghouls and goblins, including moonwalks, DJ Ronnie, Tim the Magician, Adam the Juggler, games, stringed apple and pumpkin bowling games, face painting, costume contest and candy giveaway, all in the safety of The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Costume contest begins at 6 p.m. Trophies and prizes for the funniest, scariest, cutest and best costumes. Also, vote for your favorite pet costume.

Out s i d e C h e ro k e e Weekends in October

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., at Hillcrest Orchards

in Ellijay, with wagon rides, pig races, cow milking, a petting farm, mini golf, museums, jumping pillow and numerous playgrounds. Live entertainment and food. www. hillcrestorchards.net.

Oct. 6-7

Georgia Marble Festival at Lee Newton Park in Jasper, open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Live entertainment, parade, children’s area, business expo, quarry tours, bingo and road race. www.georgiamarblefestival.com.

Oct. 13-14, 20-21

Georgia Apple Festival in Ellijay, with more than 300

vendors featuring handmade, hand-crafted items, and on-site demonstrations of how selected types of crafts are made. Antique car show on Oct. 13 at the civic center, parade on Oct. 20 at 10 a.m., downtown Ellijay. www.georgiaapplefestival.org.

Oct. 20-21

Gold Rush Days Festival in Dahlonega celebrates the 1828 discovery of gold in the area. More than 300 art and craft exhibitors and food vendors will gather around the public square and historic district. It’s estimated more than 200,000 people visit this event. www.dahlonegajaycees.com/gold-rush.

Oct. 19-20

The Kennesaw State University Owl-O-Ween Festival, open 6-11 p.m. Friday and 4-11 p.m. Saturday, features balloon glows, trick-or-treating, tethered hot air balloon rides, Oktoberfest beer garden, live music, vendor marketplace, sports bars, artist market, food trucks, roving entertainment, interactive kids area, a main concert stage and more. www. owl-o-ween.com.

Our glossy paper is recyclable!

Source: www.wm.com/thinkgreen/what-can-i-recycle.jsp AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Rob’s Rescues I interviewed Samantha Altfest, who is the Community Services Advocate for Ahimsa House.

How did Ahimsa House start?

At Cherokee County Animal Shelter at the moment, there are 13 kittens that are about 3 months old. Please adopt them while they are here. The cat room is really cool and kids should know that it is a really fun place to hang out with the kittens and cats. When you adopt a cat from Cherokee County Shelter they are always spayed or neutered and up to date on vaccines. This dog's name is Blaze. She is 7 years old and is an owner surrender. This dog has a super long tongue and no tail and is a reddish color. She is calm, doesn't jump on you, and knows how to sit. Blaze would be a great family dog and gets along with other dogs.

Follow Rob! @robsrescues 42

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Emily Christie was a victim of domestic violence. She escaped her situation but could not take her cat with her, and left her with someone but never saw her cat again. In 2004, she opened up a shelter to take care of the pets of women who were forced to seek protection in domestic violence shelters. Now it is a decentralized system of foster care and the whereabouts of the animals are kept strictly confidential.

What does Ahimsa House do?

What is the weirdest animal that you have taken in?

We took in a rat and snake that were best friends. The snake refused to eat the rat! We also had a call for a zebra - but ultimately we didn't have to take it in.

How many animals do you help every year?

Every year we help more than the previous year. Last year we helped about 300.

Is Ahimsa House only in Georgia, or everywhere?

We serve the whole state of Georgia. We don't work outside the state but there are some similar organizations in other states. There is a list on our website.

Ahimsa House does What advice do you many things. Primarily have for me? it addresses the link Model healthy and between animal cruelty happy relationships with and domestic abuse. friends. Be kind to people. It provides services to people escaping What is a favorite domestic abuse story you like to situations. A lot of the tell? time women won’t leave I started as an intern the abusive situation and one of the first things they are in because they I did was reunify a pet and fear for the well being of owner after they spent their pets if they leave. two months apart. That Ahimsa House has a was very special. 24 hour crisis line: 404Rob, Devyn Wittmeyer, Samantha Altfest What could I do to 452-6248. People can help you? and Diego the Ahimsa House mascot. call if they are thinking Volunteer opportunities of leaving or have left are listed on the website and include foster domestic violence. Ahimsa House makes care, donations for vet care, crisis line arrangements for their pets and provides volunteers who answer the 24-hour crisis 60 days of temporary care in an appropriate line, and outreach volunteers. Getting the place. The animal is free to go back to its word out is critical. owner whenever they are ready. Ahimsa House also provides vet care and training for What do you most need from the behavioral issues. Ahimsa House volunteers community? keep the animals safe and the organization Volunteers and donations of money, works on many levels to reunite owner and supplies and services. We get a lot of help pet, including helping to pay pet deposits from vets. We want to try and make sure if needed when the owner is able to start a that everyone who may need us learns about new life. us. Our website is: www.ahimsahouse.org.

What animals do you mostly help with? Mostly dogs and cats but we take any kind of animals including snakes, birds and rabbits. We have also helped with horses.

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

Protecting Your Pets Against Canine Influenza BY DR. CHRISTOPHER ALVEY

Flu season is approaching rapidly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone get their flu vaccine before it starts, especially those at higher risk. Canine flu season is here, as well. The dog version has many of the same signs as the human version. Some of the symptoms are high fever, nasal discharge, lethargy, etc., up to and including pneumonia and death. It is transmissible from dog to dog through the air, so, if your pet is around other dogs, they are at risk. If you are planning to board your pets for the holidays or drop them off at doggy day care, this is a serious consideration. A few years ago, canine influenza caught us unaware and was extremely devastating to the dogs that got it. Now, we know the canine influenza has two predominant strains, H3N2 and H3N8. It originated as the N8 version, changed to the N2, so now both strains show up in

testing. This makes vaccine recommendations change as well. We recommend a bi-valent vaccine for both types of strains. Initially, it is a two-dose series given three weeks apart, then an annual vaccination, thereafter. Canine flu can spoil your postholiday plans, if you come home to find Fido is sick. We, like many boarding facilities, require the flu vaccine for dogs being boarded. Remember, for the best protection, get the second booster before dropping your pet off for that stay at the boarding kennel. And, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a bad idea if you get a flu shot for yourself.

Dr. Alvey began BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. The Western Kentucky University graduate received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Auburn University, and lives in Cherokee County with his wife, two children, four dogs and two cats.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 â&#x20AC;˘ www.cherokeechamber.com

EVENT CALENDAR Oct. 4, Nov. 1

Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast: 7 a.m. October

sponsor is Cobb EMC. November sponsor is WellStar Health System. Breakfast meetings offer current and future chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. Held at the Cherokee County Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton. Register by emailing gini@ cherokeechamber.com or online.

Oct. 11

Power Hour 10-11 a.m. Networking with fellow business owners.

Oct. 17

B.L.A.S.T.T. workshop 9-11 a.m. Understanding Your Website Traffic Using Google Tools. Digital Marketing Trends for Small Businesses presented by Drew Tonsmeire, KSU Small Business Development Center.

Oct. 23

Business After Hours 4:30-6:30 p.m. Presented by

AT&T at Rockyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lake Estate, 2700 Cox Road, Woodstock.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

1. Christian Egner Foundation P.O. Box 5731, Canton, 678-982-5927 www.facebook.com/christianegnerfoundation1 2. Airborne Canton 500 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton https://airbornecanton.com/ 3. The Oak House 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-641-3982, www.theoakhouse.com 4. Thryv - Canton, 678-406-2286, www.thryv.com

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

@ the Library

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

R.T. JONES Oct. 8

116 Brown Industrial Parkway 770-479-3090

VR Experience: Tombs of Egypt 4 p.m. Drop in to explore the tombs of Egypt with virtual reality headsets (Rated “E” for Everyone).

Oct. 11

VR Experience: Fantastic Beasts 4 p.m. Get ready for the new “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” movie with a magical virtual reality experience (Rated “E” for Everyone).

Oct. 17

The Great American Read: Trivia Night 6 p.m. Celebrate “The Great American Read” PBS Series with a special (and literary) trivia night. Flaunt your literary knowledge, win prizes and prove yourself to be the supreme bookworm. Refreshments provided.

Oct. 20

Horror Awaits! Dungeons and Dragons at noon. Take a seat at the table, Local award-winning Laurel Garden Club visited R.T. Jones grab some dice and step into the boots of a hero for the monthly Dungeons and Dragons game. In this special Halloween edition, explore the classic Castle Memorial Library to help kids make butterfly gardens. Ravenloft. Beginners welcome. All materials provided, or you may bring your own. For ages 12 and older.

Oct. 21

D.I.G. (Drop-In Genealogy) at 2 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon researching and

learning about various topics. Ancestry.com is available for use within the library, as well as other research tools. Bring some questions and perhaps the group can “crowdsource” some answers.

Oct. 22

HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565

Oct. 8

Fall Farm Truck Canvas Painting 6 p.m. Out-of-the-

unconventional readers will be reading “Death at La Fenice” by Donna Leon.

Box Art Studio will help you create beautiful canvas fall paintings. Materials provided. For ages 15 and older.

The Great American Read: Book Reading and Celebration 6 p.m.

Oct. 15

The Canton Eclectic Readers 6 p.m. This month, the book club for

Celebrate the upcoming finale of “The Great American Read” PBS Series. Read passages from favorite books and talk about winner predictions. Refreshments provided.

Oct. 24

Coding Club 5 p.m. Aspiring and experienced coders are welcome. Share

your skills, ideas or learn the basics. Bring your own gear or use one of the library’s Raspberry Pi computers. For ages 12 and older.

Oct. 25

Halloween Bash 4 p.m. Calling all kids! Come dressed in your Halloween

costume, bring a bag for collecting goodies, and enjoy carnival-style games and activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Oct. 29

Wizarding World Trivia Night 6 p.m. Wear your Hogwarts house colors

with pride, and put your magical mind to the test for prizes. Decorate a pretzel wand to snack on. For ages 9 and older.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Just Code 6 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to interact with Raspberry Pis and Sphero SPRK+ robots. This program is sponsored by the Cherokee County Teen Advisory Board.

Oct. 16

Manga Club 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged to read and discuss different manga series and related topics. This program will encourage reading and group discussion in a fun and innovative way. Refreshments (and manga) provided.

Oct. 17

Music and Moves 10:30 a.m. Get moving and

grooving with friends from Go Noodle. Experience parachute play, music, gross motor skills and storytelling in one action-packed hour.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Why You Need a Furnace Tune-up BY DAN JAPE

It is important to have your furnace checked once a year by a professional for a tune-up. However, there are a few simple things you can check yourself to make sure your family is safe and warm this winter.

• Visually inspect the flue system of your furnace and water heater. The flue is the round galvanized pipe that takes

the unburned gas products and the carbon monoxide outside the home. It is located on the top of your furnace, and the water heater usually ties into the furnace flue. Carefully examine the pipe for holes or rust. Squeeze the round pipe and make sure you do not have rust-outs working from the inside out. Make sure the flue is solid and strong. You should not be able to easily crush the pipe with your hand. The flue should be sloping upward at all times and should be attached to both the furnace and water heater.

• Remove the top door to your furnace and, with a flashlight, carefully look for rust build-up inside the burners and the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is the compartment

that contains the burning of gas, and the burners protrude into the heat exchanger cells. Look for any rusty metal and flakes of rusted particles. Carefully examine the condition of the burners, looking for damage. If there is any rust in the heat exchanger, or on the burners, it has to be cleaned out. Check the front panel of the furnace for burned paint or hot spots. The panel should never get hot enough to burn the paint or the finish off the front or the

side of the furnace. The cause of burned paint is a heat exchanger that is not containing the heat of combustion, and can be a sign of a furnace that needs service or replacement.

• Have someone turn the furnace on while you observe the burners lighting. They should all light smoothly and evenly

without any whooshing sound or booming. Once the burners light, they should all burn blue, with a slight yellow tip of the flame. Wait until the fan and the blower start up, and watch for movement of the flame and watch for yellow in the flame. This can be a sign of a leaky heat exchanger or a rusted out exchanger. Turn the power switch off and the blower will stop. Watch the flame. If it stops moving and dancing around, this is a problem you should have checked out. Also, observe your pilot light for movement and yellow flame when the blower is running. Turn off your furnace power switch and see if the movement and the yellow flame change. • Change your furnace filter. This is a good time of year to change your air filter, since summer is over and the furnace has run many hours. A clean filter will allow proper airflow and efficiency on your system year-round.

Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating & Air. He can be reached at 770-594-9969.

VARSITY FOOTBALL Sequoyah Chiefs Games start at 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 7

W 42-14

Sept. 14 W 38-7 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 48

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

vs Dalton vs Campbell Bye @ Creekview vs River Ridge vs South Cobb @ Sprayberry vs Harrison @ Allatoona

Cherokee Warriors Games start at 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 7 W 38-37 Sept. 14 L 28-10 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

vs Kennesaw Mt @ Cartersville Bye @ Etowah @ Roswell vs Woodstock Bye vs Walton vs Lassiter

Elm Street

Embracing the Challenge of Creativity BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

Every month or so our staff members read a book. The topics vary, but the goal is for each staff member to continue to learn, find key insights, and bring them back to a half-day retreat to tell the rest of the staff how they are going to apply it to themselves personally or at Elm Street. I highly recommend this simple practice for any business staff. This past month we read “Creativity, Inc.” by Ed Catmull, the founder of Pixar and now president of Disney Animation. The book is filled with fantastic stories of how the Pixar organization became what it is today, and how some of our favorite characters came to life. The struggles behind creating some of the Pixar favorites were remarkable (“Inside Out” was a completely different concept when first pitched). During our discussion after we finished the book, we took a moment to look at the practices Pixar used for creating its movies from start to finish, and to imagine how we could apply those practices at Elm Street to further grow the creative efforts of our volunteers and staff. When examining our production process, one staff member said something to the effect of, “It’s hard to reimagine/re-evaluate our current process when we almost get it wrong (ie: don’t follow it) every time now.” It clicked with all of us almost immediately: Every single one of Pixar’s movies had issues where the process didn’t work. In fact, Catmull attests that the first time (and only time) that the process of creating one of their magical movies was completed correctly was “Toy Story 3.” Fifteen years of working on the process and the giant, multi-million dollar company got it right once, only to fail at it for the movies following this. His point in sharing this in the book (and my point for this article) is that, yes, the process is needed, but overrated - which is really hard for me to say. But, almost always, it is more important to trust the people. In a way, we’ve done this at Elm Street, trying to give ownership to our volunteers, trusting the brilliant people we have working on a show with a mediocre script or limited resources. It’s worked so far and we will continue to do that (and even more intentionally now). Maybe you could join us? Volunteer and see the creativity yourself. You'll be surprised at the creativity you have. If you are not sure, join us and see a creative story come to life on the stage and think about it. You can check out the amazing “The Drowsy Chaperone” − a musical filled with hilarity running this October.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

Oct 12-28

FRI/SAT AT 7:30PM | SUN AT 2:30PM

THE LANDSCAPE OF GUITAR an animated painting concert experience

“guitars of the Gipsy Kings, harmonies of Simon & Garfunkel and the colors of Van Gogh”

Oct 6th, 2018 at 7:30pm

Lantern Series Presenting Partner: Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Around & About OCTOBER

4 1180 BridgeMill Ave., Canton

Painting for a Purpose at 7 p.m. at

30114. A fundraiser for the BridgeMillSixes Service League, the artistic evening with friends costs $35 per person. For reservations, call 404-431-3777 or mnwiechert@gmail.com, or 770-6175659.

Touch-a-Truck. Cherokee 6 Recreation & Parks Agency the

annual event, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Cherokee County Fire and Training Facility in Holly Springs, 3985 Holly Springs Parkway. For details, call Lindsey Collett@cherokeega.com.

River Church Pork and Torque Car Show and BBQ is set for 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

at River Church, 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. Cost is $5 to show (no compete) or $15 to compete, multiple classes more than 25 trophies awarded. Proceeds will be used for Christmas presents for foster kids in Act Together Ministries. Contact Zach at 770-265-6601 or zachnix74@gmail.com.

Run, Walk or Roll 5K fundraiser for Next Step Ministries will take place at First Baptist Church Woodstock. Proceeds from last year’s event helped the ministry purchase a new bus to transport more clients into the community. 770-5921227. www.nextstepministries.net. A gardeners seminar, at 10 a.m. at the

senior services center, 1001 Univeter Road in Canton, presented by the Master Gardener Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County will focus on concrete planters. $10 materials fee. Class size limited. To register call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.

Spirit of Fitness is an ongoing class at Canton First United Methodist Church, set for 6:30-7:30 p.m. each Tuesday until the new year. It’s a journey to a no regret, no resolution New Year that, for $1 donation, includes a workout with Gin Miller, prayer and devotion. For details, call the church at 770-479-2502. www.cantonfirstumc.org. 50

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Night Out. Parents 19-20, 26-27 & 31 12-26 Parents can drop off kids ages 5-13 Haunted Horse Hill at Mariposa at the pool at the Cherokee County Aquatics Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. Drop-off starts at 5:30 p.m. and pick-up ends at 10 p.m. Kids will play in the pool, enjoy a pizza dinner, participate in crafts, play games and end the night with a movie. Call 678-8804760 for registration or questions.

Farms 7-10 p.m. at 75 Red Gate Trail,

Canton, GA 30115. Cost for haunted house is $10. The kid zone is $5 and includes trick-or-treating with the horses, painting pumpkins, faces painting, games and bounce house. All proceeds benefit BEATS, Inc. www.beats-inc.org.

house at fire station 14, Cherokee Music Teachers 13 Open 20 The 225 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Association will meet at 11 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free lunch, inflatables, music, games for the children, an extrication demonstration and other activities. Parking available across the street at Allen Temple AME Church.

Little River Cleanup, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., meet at Olde Rope Mill Park in Woodstock. Bring old clothes and thick work gloves; participants will be dispersed to areas around the river. Sponsored by Rivers Alive, Upper Etowah River Alliance, Cherokee County Stormwater, City of Canton and Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority. Dinner On The Ground At Brown Farm. Enjoy a local farm dinner, live auction and bluegrass music along with a rare opportunity to tour 1838 Brown Farm. Only 100 tickets are available. www.rockbarn.org Presents: 13-14 Hillside Broadway Revue musical

at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4494 Towne Lake Parkway. 7 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday. Featuring Broadway tunes from the 1920s to the present. Admission is free; a love offering will be taken to benefit the church’s music and worship ministries.

Bingo Night, a fundraiser for 19 the BridgeMill-Sixes Service

League, begins at 7 p.m. at the Terrace in BridgeMill. For ages 15 and older. $20 per person. Sign up at bssl.org or contact Ruth Clark at 678-493-8943.

Bend Your Knees golf tournament begins

with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. at the Fairways of Canton. The event is a fundraiser for the Collins Foundation, Bend Your Knees Inc., which helps families of children with brain tumors. www.bendyourknees.org/golftournament.

a.m. at the Cherokee Arts Center. The meeting includes a program by David Rowe, specialist on the Orff educational philosophy, who will talk about incorporating Orff ideas into lessons. For more information or directions, please contact Linda Lokey at linda@lokey.net or 678-358-6546.

Hero Hike & Bike, 9-11 a.m. Walkers and experienced bike riders will participate in this athletic event to honor of our veterans. Meet in the parking lot of the Northside Cherokee Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. For more information, call Stephen Johnstone at 404-909-2976. Etowah River Cleanup, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Meet at the Upper Etowah River Alliance office at 180 McClure St., Canton. Bring old clothes and thick work gloves; participants will be dispersed to areas around the river.

NOVEMBER Jingle Bell Shop will be held 11 9 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Northside Hospital

Cherokee County Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Vendor booths available for the annual Christmas event that offers free admission, free visit with Santa, holiday shopping, Santa’s workshop with children’s crafts, Santa’s sweet shop and a restaurant raffle. Contact gini@cherokeechamber.com for more information.

Holiday Home 10-11 The Tour, a fundraiser for the

Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club, is 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Three homes will be on tour, and tickets are $15. www.woodstockjwc.org.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Serving the Community, One Meal at a Time BY HANNAH SUH WOODSTOCK HIGH SCHOOL JOURNALISM STUDENT

Everyday, we wake up knowing we are going to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner. Occasionally, we even know what we are going to have for these meals. It is a natural routine we have and do without thinking much about it. We forget there are people in communities everywhere who are not as fortunate. Many people struggle to find meals that will last their family through the weekend or even through the day. In light of this, Woodstock High School has put together a food pantry to serve its community. Assistant Principal Nancy Henson started the food pantry in hopes of serving her community and to give others the opportunity to do so, as well. She wanted to highlight the importance of giving to those around us, for “we should care about our community and those within it.” “It was brought up to me by the school’s social worker, Dr. Tara Quinn-Schuldt, last spring,” Henson said. “They currently have the food pantry at Etowah High School, and she reached out to me and [Mark] Smith [WHS principal] to see if we would be interested in starting one here. Together, we talked about it, and we decided that we would absolutely love to do it!” WHS is working with Heritage Presbyterian Church to provide food to students with a weekend bags system. The bags will be given discreetly, to “bridge the weekend gap when they do not have free and reduced breakfast and lunch programs offered at school,” Henson said. With the help of the Atlanta Food Bank, these bags will be put together for $1 per bag. Students who currently are enrolled in the Cherokee County School District’s free and reduced lunch program will be able to pick these bags up every Thursday during the last 10 minutes of seventh period. Donations from students are encouraged and accepted in many locations, including the front office, athletic office and counseling office.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

One of many donation boxes located around the school. Photo courtesy of journalism student Emily Hailstone.

“We are soliciting donations from kids and teachers in the community, anyone who wants to drop food off at any time can. We ask for nonperishables, no glass, and nothing extremely heavy, because it will go home in backpacks. We want food that is easy to make. Microwavable, individually packaged or sometimes single serving portions; things that can sustain a family through the weekend is the goal,” Henson said. Within the first few weeks of this new program, Atlanta Food Bank generously has donated a couple of tons of food to the pantry. Volunteers have sorted the donations, organizing and putting them on shelves. WHS students with disabilities have been able to work on organizing the foods, helping them improve their job-related skills. These amazing students, and many others involved from the student body, have been doing a phenomenal job lending a helping hand.

Visits with Santa!

Free Admission

Friday, November 9th

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Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center Cherokee County Administration Building 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton Take Exit 20 on I-575 & follow signs.

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

SCHOOL & SPORTS

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS A Lot of Learning Happening at Sixes ELementary Students in teacher Candace Meek’s thirdgrade class at Sixes Elementary built Inuit igloos after studying the lives of various American Indian tribes. From left: Laci Cartee, Christopher Bowers, Gavin Lark, Ms. Meek, Liam Herfurth, McKenzie Green and Cade Cannon.

Kaden and his dad embrace during the surprise reunion.

Student Receives a Special Surprise Indian Knoll Elementary School first-grader Kaden Cook recently had a very special lunch date. His father, Army Sgt. Eric Cook, surprised him upon returning home for leave from a tour of duty in Iraq. After his brief leave, Sgt. Cook will finish the last nine months of the tour, which is his second in Iraq. “Kaden was ecstatic to see his father and to be able to eat lunch with him,” Principal Kim Cerasoli said. “Indian Knoll is a school community that is known for our commitment to honor the military and veterans throughout the year. We thank Sgt. Cook for his bravery and service to our country!”

Kindergartners at Sixes Elementary enjoyed dressing up for Career Day. From left: Tate Schmitt as a teacher, Mariana Benavides as a police officer, Ashlyn Andretta as a doctor and Morgan Slater as a baker.

Senior Project on Display A part of Creekview High School Class of 2018 graduate Isabelle Knott’s senior project is on display at a national refuge in Florida. As part of her research project, Do Plastics in the Ocean Negatively Impact Marine Life?, Knott crafted a life-sized model of a leatherback sea turtle. She filled it with plastics to communicate the importance of reducing plastic waste to help improve ocean ecology and protect marine life. The sculpture is on display at the visitor’s center for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge at Sanibel Island, not far from where Knott is studying marine biology at Eckerd College.

Hasty Elementary Recognizes Partner of the Year The Canton Police Department was recently recognized as the Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy 2018 Partner of the Year. Canton Police Department officers are a regular presence at the school through a positive partnership to build relationships. Officers teach students about safety and careers, serve as reading buddies and mentors, and make donations for families in need. “Canton Police Officers serve as amazing role models for our students and are committed to fostering relationships with the families in our schools,” Principal Rodney Larrotta said. From left: Cherokee County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian V. Hightower, Canton Police Department Chief Mark Mitchell and Principal Rodney Larrotta. 54

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

An Extraordinary Summer My Walk on the Camino de Santiago night. We would walk around the town, getting tapas to eat or sometimes a second dessert. We toured 1,000-year-old buildings and cathedrals. We met locals and saw what most tourists never would get to see. Eventually, we would call it a night and head off to bed and fall asleep (unless there was a particularly loud snoring pilgrim in a bed near me). Then we would wake up again BY BRYCE JONES the next morning and head out for the long walk to our next dinner party! Every day on the Camino was unique Every day on the Camino was a new and filled with new adventures, but the adventure, and every day I had the chance average day would go something like this: to learn something new. I learned I liked I would start my day by waking up before a lot of different foods, like sunrise in my albergue, which mussels, paella, squid, and is a special place to stay just for a lot of foods whose names pilgrims, and quickly get ready I cannot pronounce. I also for the day's walk. My dad and learned that people have a lot I would either eat breakfast to share about themselves. I at our albergue or we would never ran out of topics to talk walk a couple of kilometers to about. The people I met always build up an appetite, and eat had something unique and at a local cafe in a small village interesting to share with me. along the Camino. I learned about beekeeping, After breakfast, we would gardening, cooking, histories start walking again. We would of other countries, ideas for usually walk 5 to 7 kilometers new books to read, language before stopping to rest. And, lessons, guitar lessons, and when we did stop, it was like I even learned how to find a paradise. We would get drinks, Bryce with fellow pilgrims around a campfire at the San Anton Monastery plant along the side of the road eat a snack like a Spanish ruins near Castrojeriz, Spain. called the stinging nettle, that omelette, and chit-chat with we carefully picked, cleaned and cooked vineyards almost daily), water and bread. new friends we had met that day (usually for dinner (my dad got stung!). We would get to pick our three courses pilgrims from some far away land like I walked and talked with amazing people from the pilgrim's menu, which is a fixed South Korea, Finland, Argentina, Holland, from around the world, including doctors, price menu just for pilgrims. We would South Africa or Lithuania). After we got our scientists, college students, retirees, talk and laugh with all the people we sat second wind, we would continue walking. college coaches, and even an ocean with, and it was usually the best time of We would continue this pattern, of walking biologist. I learned so much, because the day. My dad described it like this: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each 7 to 10 kilometers before stopping, until people shared some moments in their lives day we got up to walk a long way to meet we got to our final destination for that day. with me. I experienced that you don't need new friends on the way to our next dinner Sometimes, when we were walking electronics or television to enjoy the world. party,â&#x20AC;? and that's a great way to put it. through towns we hadn't planned to stop Listening and communicating with other I loved taking selfies and photos with all in, we would see some friends we had people is a great way to learn and pass my new friends at dinner (and all over the recently met on the Camino resting, so we time. Experiencing history when it's right Camino!). Once dinner was over, we would would stop to say hello and take a break so in front of you is amazing. It was incredible then usually have two to three hours we could walk with them. While we were to imagine all the people throughout time before we would have to go to bed (most walking, which was usually for six to 10 that had stood in the same spots, inside albergues have a curfew), so we would hours each day, we would talk with other the same beautiful buildings, sharing get together with a bunch of our new pilgrims to pass the time. We would talk meals and stories with the pilgrims that Camino friends and go out and explore about all sorts of things. That's how I got to they had met on their Camino. the village or city where we were for that know people so well.

This is the second of a three-part series written by a student from Woodstock Middle School, who spent his summer hiking through France and Spain.

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Once we got to a village we wanted to stop in for the night, we would find an albergue with two available beds, check in, unpack our backpacks, and then get a nice refreshing shower. Before dinner, we would talk with our new friends, sit outside in the shade, or play cards or other games. We also would walk around the town, which was usually small and old, and explore its history and beauty. When dinner time arrived, we would sit down at a big table and eat a savory three-course meal that always would come with wine (we were walking in wine country through

Above, Bryce walking across a concrete pillar bridge along the Camino. Top, Bryce and his dad in front of the famous Cathedral of Saint Mary of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 13th century. Right, Bryce entering the town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada in Spain. AROUND CANTON |

October 2018

Learning About Literary Genres In our English/language arts class, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been studying literary genres. There are basically five: fiction, nonfiction, drama, folklore and poetry. There are sub-genres within each of these. I asked the students to write about their favorite genre, and the following selections were the top responses. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to hear from you, too! Please send your favorite genre and a detailed description on why, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll share them with my students. Email joseph.lemmo@cherokee.k12.ga.us. My favorite genre is Horror and Adventure because I like some scare and a little bit of wild in my life! One reason I like Horror is because getting scared in a book can be hard, so I like to get scared Erin Miller from a book. And getting scared can be fun, so why not! A reason why I like adventure is that there is a bit of everything in the book â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Romance, Horror, Mystery, Mythology, and Sci Fi. My favorite type of adventures are the Mystery ones. Those are my favorite Genres!

Antonia Gordon

My favorite genre is fiction. The reason that fiction is my favorite genre is because I like how it can just have things happen anytime and they can be anything. Fantasy is my favorite sub-genre because I like books about magic and talking animals and things that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t usually in real life. My favorite series of fiction fantasy is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Upside Down Magic.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The reason that it is my favorite genre series is because I love cats and that is what Nory needs to turn into, but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just happen. I love when books have a problem because they are the most exciting books. Therefore, my favorite genre is fiction, and my favorite sub-genre is fantasy.

If I had to choose my favorite genre it would be fantasy. The reason I chose fantasy is because it is very entertaining to read. Another reason I chose fantasy is because I love to read about time machines and flying cars. I believe it can also be very appealing to younger and older kids. My favorite series of books to read is Geronimo Stilton books, which have adventure and fantasy. I think if you put a fantasy book and a real book in front of a bunch of kids, they would probably choose the fantasy book. I think this because they probably think that it would be more exciting to read!

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

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The best genre is fiction. Fiction is the best genre because it has many sub-genres, which means even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like one sub-genre in fiction there is always many more to try. Also, I think that fiction is the best genre because they are usually some of the longer books and that means longer to read. My favorite sub-genre is fantasy. Fantasy is great because, things in fantasy canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really happen, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s different than everyday life. Plus, fantasy is amazing because it can have many different things unlike science-fiction where it mainly only can have space things. That is why I think that fiction is the best genre and fantasy is the best sub-genre.

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

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SafeSchools Alert a Chance to Report Concerns BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

While October is National Bullying Prevention Month, the Cherokee County School District is focused on this mission every day. In addition to working continuously to improve how we teach students to prevent bullying, identify bullying and respond to bullying, we’ve also made it easier to report bullying. With the start of this school year, the district launched a new expanded system for reporting safety concerns: SafeSchools Alert. Expanding the options for reporting tips is one of the many important recommendations to come from the Superintendent’s Safety and Security Ad Hoc Committee following the Parkland school shooting tragedy. The SafeSchools Alert system allows students, parents, school staff and anyone in the community to report safety concerns by text, email, online message or phone call. You can make a tip about bullying, a rumored threat, a friend in trouble, harassment, drugs, alcohol, vaping, vandalism and any other school safety concern. The system also allows you to make a tip anonymously. Through SafeSchools Alert, you can submit safety concerns in four ways. 1. By phone: 1-855-4ALERT1, ext. 1695 2. By text: Text #1695 + your tip to ALERT1 or 253781 3. By email: 1695@alert1.us 4. By online message: http://1695.alert1.us The school district police and school operations administrators are notified of every tip, so they can investigate and take appropriate

action. The SafeSchools Alert system is closely monitored, making it more effective than sending a message to school social media accounts or a school email address. SafeSchools Alert does not replace 911; students and parents should continue to call 911 in emergencies. Posters promoting SafeSchools Alert are displayed in all schools, and stickers are displayed inside all school buses. Every student began the school year by watching a video in class that reviewed school safety practices, including the importance of “See Something, Say Something” and SafeSchools Alert. These videos are posted on the school district’s YouTube channel, and we encourage parents to review them with their children, and reinforce the messages about school safety, bullying and other disciplinary issues. We’ve also created a brief public service announcement for SafeSchools Alert that was written with students in mind; you can watch it at http://bit.ly/CCSDsafeschools. Special thanks to Cherokee High School Drama Club members for portraying students in the video. SafeSchools Alert only will work if we all use it, so please remember if you “See Something, Say Something” to help keep our students, teachers, staff and volunteers safe. #SafeCherokee

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

The Proof is in the Pudding

Tax Changes around the Home

The restaurant district is simply an additional component in the collective products and services that continue to expand Canton’s appeal to our diverse citizens, businesses and visitors. It has never been one thing or program that has defined our success; it’s an ongoing work-in-progress that requires constant nurturing, refinement and a genuine desire to embrace and pilot new ideas that will continue to move Canton Forward at an appropriate pace. As with other initiatives, the proof will be in the pudding, and we are giving it a trial run of one year to generate the necessary data that will ultimately inform its fate. Speaking of pudding, the stresses of public service sometime require the most comforting food possible. A couple of weekends ago, we had friends visiting from Blue Ridge, and we took them to dinner at our delicious new Peruvian restaurant, Mazzato. They loved it, but I couldn’t get away without cooking something. I decided to attempt my mother’s old fashioned banana pudding. There is no boxed pudding involved, and it has to be topped with the highest meringue possible. Most importantly, the bananas must be very, very ripe. These simple rules make all the difference. I hope you enjoy this recipe, and may our community continue to celebrate the beautiful and intriguing differences that truly make Canton the best city to live, work and play in the Southeast.

All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please note — investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

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Citations. 1 - investopedia.com/taxes/how-gop-tax-bill-affects-you/ [1/3/18] 2 - cnbc.com/2018/05/23/irs-treasury-have-set-their-sights-on-bluestates-tax-workarounds.html [5/23/18] 3 - irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-18-54.pdf [5/23/18] 4 - nytimes.com/2018/03/09/your-money/home-equity-loansdeductible.html [3/9/18] 5 - fool.com/taxes/2018/05/20/say-goodbye-to-the-home-officededuction-unless-yo.aspx [5/20/18]

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

Giving Hope to the Most Vulnerable BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Mother Teresa said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” Walking through the doors of Changed 2 Ministries (C2M), I learned about a whole bunch of small things being done with great love. And not just with big love, but boundless joy. C2M’s founder, Randy Richardson, shared with me a stack of adorable handwritten notes from children who attend C2M’s Friday evening Bible Club for kids. Mirian wrote: “Dear Randy, You are the best person. You are an angel who helps us change our lives. You do many things for us like going to camp and having fun. Thank you.” Richardson started C2M in 2008. One of its main outreaches is called Church on the Street. While driving through Canton, he noticed a group of men standing outside a gas station. He stopped and asked what they were doing. He learned that they were trying to find jobs. He listened to their stories of hardship and daily struggles to provide for their families. Richardson was moved to share food, clothing and the gospel message with these men. There were 150 people at the first outreach. Church on the Street still meets today. Now it is held at its donation center at 2484 Marietta Highway in Canton. C2M’s aim is to give hope to the most vulnerable in our community by serving no-income to low-income families, meeting basic human needs.

Randy Richardson 60

AROUND CANTON | October 2018

C2M's Bible Club for Kids is a popular event.

Richardson understands intimately what hopelessness feels like. An addict for most of his adult life, he was radically changed after hearing the gospel message at age 42 in 1999. He now goes to the most desperate in our community and shares the same life-changing news he heard. God redeemed him out of the depths of a horrendous life of addiction. It is quite obvious Randy is supposed to be here to serve, because after almost dying from liver failure, he made it through a successful transplant in October 2006. Changed forever, he now lives to serve. “Most of the folks we minister to here are Hispanic,” Richardson said. “Along with our generous volunteers and donors, we help many with food, furniture, diapers and beds.” Language doesn’t seem to be a barrier at C2M. Maybe that’s because everyone understands the universal language of love. When asked why he named his nonprofit Changed 2 Ministries he said, “When I first got saved, the Lord changed me, so I knew when I started sharing Jesus with others, he could change them, too. That is why I named the ministry Changed 2 Ministries.” Where there are people in need, C2M will be there lending a hand, a smile and an encouraging word. Everyone is welcome to take part. There are plenty of ways to plug in and help at C2M.

• Every Monday: Church on the Street Canton, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. at the donation center* (food, clothing, household goods and furniture, and diapers are distributed). • Every Tuesday: Celebrate Recovery, 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church Woodstock. • Every Friday: Kids Bible Clubs, 5 p.m. at the donation center.* • Every Saturday: Worship service, 6-8 p.m. at the donation center* • Ongoing: Prison Visitation Richardson’s wish is to one day purchase the donation center building. “If we can purchase the building, the work being done here will continue on after I am gone,” he said. Donations of food, clothing, diapers, furniture, cars and monetary help are always welcome. To donate, volunteer or find out more, visit www. changed2ministries.com. For larger items such as furniture, please call in advance: 404-732-6735 or email randy.richardson@ changed2ministries.com. *Donation Center is located at 2484 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.

One Constant in a World of Change BY CLIFF PACE

It’s that time of year, again. Soon the trees will explode in magnificent color: Red, yellow, orange and brown, the colors of fall will surround us. The cool wind from the mountains will put a chill in the air. This will be a natural reminder that the seasons are changing. Summer is turning into fall, eventually fall will surrender to winter, and then spring will return with renewed life. As we wonder at the beauty of it all, we must also accept the reality that life never stops. Change never stops. If you don’t believe me, just take a look in the mirror. It can seem like it was yesterday that a little boy or girl looked back at us, but, for many, the seasons have turned into years. These years are filled with love, joy, laughter, tears, sorrow and loss. Ella Fitzgerald sang about it. “Into each life some rain must fall But too much is falling in mine Into each heart some tears must fall But some day the sun will shine.” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote about it after the death of his wife in 1842. “Be still, sad heart! and cease repining; Behind the clouds is the sun still shining; Thy fate is the common fate of all, Into each life some rain must fall, Some days must be dark and dreary.”

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A few thousand years before this, King Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 3. “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven … He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart … I know that everything God does will remain forever.” The seasons will continue to change, the years will continue to pass, life will be filled with joy and pain, laughter and tears. But, there is one who will never change. He is the Lord. The same Bible that tells us of life’s realities, also tells us of God’s love for us. Jesus said this speaking of himself, “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” He can take care of our past, he can give us hope for our future, if we’ll trust him today.

Cliff and his wife, Tracy, have three children and are originally from Mississippi. Cliff is the senior pastor at Canton First Baptist. AROUND CANTON | October 2018

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FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com

October 2018

ANIMALS/PETS

DENTAL

BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Pet Play Place 770-733-9123 www.petplayplace.com

ATTORNEYS

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric) BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812 www.bridgemilldentistry.com

Dentistry at Hickory Flat 770-213-8166 www.HickoryFlatDentist.com

Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.LandscapeMattersInc.com

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

Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com

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

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

Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 17 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

Bonnie Dobbs Agency 866-901-9162 bonniedobbs@gmail.com

Williams Orthodontics 22, 44 Canton: 770-345-4155 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

Geico Jerry Sorrels 770-565-9696

Tidwell Strimban 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries GobbleJog www.gobblejog.org

CLEANING SERVICES Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743

CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org LGE Community Credit Union www.LGEccu.org

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION Mission Academy 404-444-0249 www.MissionAcademyGA.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com

Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine Cover, 32, 33 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com Medical Assoc. of North Georgia 770-479-5535 www.MedAssoc.com

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

HOME & GARDEN Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

INSURANCE

9 38

ClearView Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing 30 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com

Northside Vascular Surgery 770-292-3490 www.NVS-GA.com

Perimeter North Medical Associates 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 770-421-1242

www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net WellStar & Mayo Clinic 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org/Mayo

Inside front

PHOTOGRAPHY Brittany Weir Photography 678-514-9267

Ed Selby 678-860-1546 www.edselbyphoto.com

KariBeth Gentry Photography www.KBGphotographyblog.org

Teena Coogle Photography 41 www.TeenaCooglePhotography.com REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Kristie Bledsoe 404-406-0340 Kristie.Bledsoe.BHHSGeorgia.com

Serenity 1 770-592-2404 www.TreetopResidential.com

Aspire Dance Arts 770-213-4130 www.AspireDanceArts.com

Holiday Tour of Homes www.WoodstockJWC.org

Big Door Vineyards 844-692-4436 www.BigDoorVineyards.com

Jingle Bell Shop 770-345-0400 www.CherokeeChamber.com Sequoyah Football

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org Cherokee Warriors Football

CRPA The Great Pumpkinfest & Fun Run 47 www.crpa.net Downtown Canton Farmers Market www.cantonga.gov

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

FCA Field of Faith www.fieldsoffaith.com

Georgia Zombiefest www.GeorgiaZombieFest.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING The Safe House 678-398-9021 www.AtlantaSafeHouse.com

SENIOR LIVING/SENIOR SERVICES Certified Nursing Assistant Courtney Spezzano 770-314-9211

Lodge at BridgeMill, The 833-358-4220 www.TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com

Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-460-8459 www.ManorLakeBR.com

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k b g p h o t o g r a p h y s t u d i o @ g m a i l .c o m www.kbgphotographyblog.org AROUND CANTON | October 2018

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AROUND CANTON | October 2018

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