10-20 AroundWoodstock webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

Charlice Byrd

Proven. Conservative. Leader.

Charlice’s Record of Service • State Representative District 20 (2005-2013) • Chair of the Board for North Georgia Angel House • Member of the Board for Holly Springs Police Foundation • Appointed by the Governor to serve on the Georgia Nursing Home Board of Administrators

Cherokee’s Leaders Agree that Charlice Byrd is the Right Choice!

• Long-time member of the American-Legion Auxiliary • Member/Past President of the Towne Lake Optimist Club • Member of Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee • Member of The Cherokee County Chamber • Graduate of Leadership Cherokee

“Having worked with Charlice Byrd for years, I know she is tireless and relentless when it comes to doing what is right for the citizens of Cherokee County. I am proud to endorse her campaign for the State House and I know we will have a determined voice in the General Assembly in Charlice Byrd.” Donnie Henriques, Mayor of Woodstock “Charlice Byrd is a proven conservative that represents our Cherokee principles and our values. Her experience on the state level will be invaluable in the years to come. Her commitment to protecting our constitutional rights is steadfast.” Steven W. Miller, Mayor of City of Holly Springs

VOTE FOR BYRD

P.O. Box 505 Woodstock, GA 30188 404-557-2218 charlice@charlicebyrd.com

www.charlicebyrd.com Facebook: ByrdforHouse Instagram: charlice_byrd

Please VOTE on or before Nov. 3 Paid for by Byrd for House

“I am proud to support and endorse Charlice Byrd for State Representative. I know that our community will have a tireless advocate and law enforcement will have a real supporter in Charlice. She has the right experience and knowledge to get the job done and that’s why I am standing with her.” Chief Deputy Ken Ball, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office “I am endorsing Charlice Byrd for State House of Representatives because she is exactly the kind of voice and hard worker Cherokee County needs in the Georgia Legislature. I know her personally and have seen her strong work-ethic firsthand. She has a proven track record of representing the Citizens of Cherokee County and the great State of Georgia.” Rob Usher, City of Woodstock - Councilman Ward 6

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6242 Old Highway 5 Suite A1 Woodstock GA 30188 Restaurant: 678 400 8131 · Catering: 678 400 8160 www.sustostacobar.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Contents October 2020

Contributors

Clark Salon & Spa

30 Don Akridge

On the Cover

Owner Keenan Clark with his dad's barber chair. In the cover photo, Clark is surrounded by hair manager and lead educator Sarah McNealy, on the left, and Alison Martin, salon manager and nail tech.

10 Stacy Brown 26 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 43 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Pages 28 & 29

Cover photo by Beth Fornuto.

48 Barbara P. Jacoby 38 Harry Johnston 45 Tyler Kerley 49 Saanvi Lamba 46 Rob Macmillan 18 Gary Parkes 35 Justin Spainhour-Roth 39 Dr. Mary Swantek 42 Tim Timmons 40 Pacita Wilson

On the Pollinator Trail

Community members, armed with cell phones and apps, spent a day watching the birds and the bees, and other pollinators, at Dupree Park.

Hooked on Books?

Then join the club. Fellow bibliophiles talk about the advantages of joining a book club, or tips for starting your own.

Haint it Fun?

This Halloween, it’s everything scary and nice, from a 6-year-old pumpkin farmer to spooky ways to enjoy the season.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

In Every Issue

4 Around Woodstock 8 Community News 10 Celebrations 32 Noteworthy 44 Everyday Angels 46 Rob’s Rescues 49 School News

50 Community Calendar 52 Recent Home Sales 54 Directory of Advertisers

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Around Woodstock Letter From the Editor

Well, what do y’all think? Did you notice how sophisticated the September issue looked? Earlier this year, we decided to try using a serif font in Around Acworth and, after three months of tweaking, we got it right where we want it. We liked it so much, we adopted the new look in our Cherokee issues as well. We hope you like it. Studies have shown that serif body type is easier to read, because it’s more like cursive. Isn’t it funny that there may be some younger readers who haven’t seen or written in cursive? We’re all about making things easy for you these days, as together we plow through the challenges of 2020. For instance, have you found yourself agreeing to what your friends wearing masks were saying, even though you didn’t understand their mumblings? It reminds me of the Seinfeld episode with a woman he called “the low talker.” Jerry unwittingly agreed to wear a designer friend’s puffy shirt on the “Today Show,” all because he nodded his head even though he didn’t know what she was asking. If something like that happens to you, please let us know. We’ll commiserate with you, and run a funny photo if you have one to share! When I did a Google search of that episode, I found a link to a story that guides you in dressing like Jerry in the puffy shirt for Halloween. Even though we know that Halloween won’t be the same this year, we aren’t giving up. We’ve packed this issue with lots of inspiration to make the most of the season: take a ghost tour (page 34) or make plans to grow your own pumpkin, like the young farmer (pages 36). If you’d rather curl up with a good book, we have some ideas for you on that as well. Book club members in our community share the joys of belonging to a group of fellow bibliophiles, whether it’s reading for pleasure (pages 20-21) or learning to improve entrepreneurship and local businesses (page 19). Sadly, we discovered that men aren’t as active as women in book clubs, so on page 22, you’ll find some suggestions to get guys hooked on books. Signing off now. A cup of hot pumpkin spice coffee and my latest favorite book (“The Great Alone” by Kristin Hannah) are calling my name. Let us know how you’re faring, as we hurtle through fall, with cooler temps and warm pumpkin treats. See you around town!

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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

What’s Moved

The Cherokee County elections and voter registration office has moved to a new location on

the tax office campus in Canton. The relocation to 2782 Marietta Highway, Suite 100, in Canton, was needed to accommodate the 780 new voting machines received earlier this year. The office, located in the same building as the tax assessor’s office and behind the tax commissioner’s office, is open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. A 24-hour ballot drop box is located near the entrance. 770-479-0407. https://voter.cherokeega.com.

What’s New

Susto’s Taco Bar has opened at 6242 Old Highway 5, Suite A1, in Woodstock. The familyowned restaurant offers everything from tacos to empanadas, daily specials and freshly-made margaritas. 678-400-8131. 678-400-8160. www.sustostacobar.com The Woodstock Summer Concert Series has been rescheduled to 2021, with the following acts.

May 8: Christopher Cross June 12: Ultimate Queen Celebration starring Marc Martel

July 10: Black Jacket Symphony Sept. 18: Rumours, a Fleetwood Mac tribute

Watch www.woodstockconcertseries.com for updates.

Felber Home Furnishings and Decor has opened at 1431 Londonderry Drive, Woodstock. Owners Blake and Julie Felber offer a variety of styles affordable for any budget. 770-693-6985. On Facebook and Instagram. Georgia Swings has opened at 3346 Trickum Road, Suite C101, in Woodstock, and offers handcrafted porch swings, bed swings and adirondack chairs. 404-994-4997. https://georgiaswings.com.

Kudos

Jennifer Dunn has joined the Cherokee County Historical Society as Communications and Marketing Manager. The Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Monument has been selected to be part of the

National American Legion listing of veteran monuments. www.legion.org/memorials/249817/ homeless-veterans-memorial-monument.

Skilled attorneys who are dedicated to helping injury victims maximize their recovery.

Joel Williams

Chase Elleby

833-LEGALGA

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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www.aroundwoodstockmagazine.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Around Woodstock, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 16,500 free copies. Approximately 15,700 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. See page 56 for a distribution map. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Woodstock welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Woodstock 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 2020

Around Woodstock

1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 7, Issue 12

America’s Community Magazine

Get into the Action Film and Video

Production Technology

Film and Video Production Technology Programs are offered at the Mountain View Campus in East Cobb.

ChattahoocheeTech.edu I 770-528-4545 A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Local News A Storybook Walk on the Trail Woodstock Parks and Recreation and the Sequoyah Regional Library System have partnered to create TrailStory, a project for elementary-aged children and their families to have a fun, active and socially safe way to read a book and enjoy Woodstock’s trails. Throughout October, 15-20 signs along the Noonday Creek Trail, from the Woofstock Park connection toward Highway 92, will feature pages of the book "Room on the Broom" by Julia Donaldson on one side, and interactive QR code questions on the other side. Contact Jamey Snyder at jsnyder@woodstockga.gov or Kara Rumble at rumblek@seqlib.org with questions.

Historical Society Unveils New Brand The Cherokee County Historical Society (CCHS) has announced a new umbrella brand identity: History Cherokee, which encompasses all of the current services of the society, including the historic Rock Barn event rental site and the forthcoming Cherokee County History Center. The center, set to open in 2021, will feature 5,000 square feet of exhibit space and a research center. “This new branding launch brings us one step closer to making the vision of the Cherokee County History Center a reality,” Executive Director Stefanie Joyner said. “It is succinct and will allow us to share our work in historic preservation, local history education and the Rock Barn event venue in a universal way.” Watch www.historycherokee.org for details.

Youth Basketball Sign Up Begins

Pruitt Family Asks for a Day of Kindness

In February, 8-year-old Ellie Pruitt passed away unexpectedly from a collection of autoimmune diseases that were attacking her body. While preparing for her celebration of life service, her parents found a list she called her Room Rules. Two of the four rules were to Have Fun and Always Love. Ellie’s birthday is Oct. 20, and her family wants to make it a day of kindness that reaches as far as possible. They are asking community members to do something nice for someone that day in whatever form or fashion you like. Their hope is that people all over will be doing nice things for others because of their daughter, Ellie, and her rules. 8

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency has announced that registration for the 202021 Cherokee Youth Basketball season begins Oct. 5, closing on Nov. 8. Register online at www.playcherokee.org, or in person at the rec center at 7545 Main St., Woodstock. “Our team has been working extremely hard to adapt and modify programs, so that we are able to follow health department guidelines while mitigating the virus as much as possible,” league director Matthew Graney said.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

E-mail: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com November deadline is Oct. 10. Please specify Around Woodstock.

Gabriel

Happy double digits on Oct. 10! You are so loved.

Charlotte

Happy first birthday! Love, Mommy and Daddy.

Happy 17th birthday, Madison!

Oct. 8 We love you! Love, Mom and Dad.

Planning for a Better Woodstock BY STACY BROWN

Change is constant and affects all cities, towns, suburbs, counties and rural areas. Community development and city planners help manage this change in a way that provides better choices for how people work, live and play. Community planning provides an opportunity for all residents to be equally involved in making choices that determine the shared vision of their neighborhoods. The full benefits of planning require public officials and citizens who understand, support and demand excellence in planning and plan implementation. October is National Community Planning Month in the United States. The American Planning Association and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, endorse National Community Planning Month as an opportunity to highlight the contributions sound planning and plan implementation make to the quality of our neighborhoods and environment. The celebration of National Community Planning Month gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize the participation and dedication of the members of the Woodstock Planning Commission and our city planners, who have contributed their time and expertise to the improvement of our community. Planning can be summed up as comprehensive, communityfocused choices that enhance the spaces where people live, work and play. While many people may not realize it, planning has a significant impact on their day-to-day life, including from where they live, to how they commute, and what type of home they live in.

The Difference Planning Makes

• Access and opportunity are expanded through planning. Strategic investments in innovation and infrastructure can boost the economy and strengthen communities.

• Communities with lasting value are created. Planning helps leverage public and private funds that lead to business growth, job creation, robust infrastructure and economically resilient communities. 10

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

• Planners are skilled at balancing the varied interests and viewpoints that emerge as a community plans its future. Planners consider what is best for the entire community — senior citizens, workers, children, people living with disabilities, business owners and elected officials. How do they arrive at these communitywide decisions? It’s done through conversations with residents, and thoughtful, inclusive outreach to community stakeholders.

• The greater good is considered, by working with professionals from different fields, such as public health, recreation and engineering, to make communities safer, stronger, healthier and more just. Planning does not stop at a geographic border. Communities are served best when planners take a broader viewpoint, encompassing regional and statewide perspectives. This is especially critical for infrastructure projects, which are most successful when planned at a regional scale. Taking a regional focus ensures the infrastructure system will benefit those well beyond the immediate location of the project. • Unique expertise enables planners to address the impacts of today’s actions on tomorrow’s communities comprehensively, with a big-picture perspective. Planners are positioned uniquely to evaluate how decisions about the built environment — including transportation networks, building location and scale, and parks and green space — impact communities. When guided and informed by good planning, these decisions make communities safer, more resilient, healthier, more prosperous and more equitable. Learn more about Woodstock’s community planning efforts at woodstockga.gov or facebook.com/woodstockplanning.

Stacy Brown is the marketing and communications manager for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 770-592-6056 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Beth Velji with children Evelyn and Porter

The Roth family enjoyed the tunes from their picnic blanket.

Concert Lawn on the

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH

Woodstock hosted its September Brown Bag Concert Series at The Park at City Center. Mason Embers, a 17-year-old musician, performed for the crowd on Sept. 10.

Mason Embers, left, provided the music, which inspired this Empower Cherokee student, above, to show off his dance moves.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Oaks at Towne Lake

Schedule Your Tour Today 770.592.2195

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AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

BioBlitz in the Park

The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is an annual national campaign through local parks and recreation agencies to raise awareness and community involvement in the pollinator crisis. A local event was held Sept. 5 at Dupree Park. Community members used an app to take pictures of plants, insects and animals to see what wildlife was present in the park on the day of the event. Pollinators are a vital component of our ecosystem, and an essential link to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food supply. According to the White Houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pollinators Health Task Force, over the last 30 years, the United States has experienced a steady decline of pollinators (such as bees, bats and butterflies) at an alarming rate of 30% annually. (www.inaturalist.org) Identifying local pollinators and what plants may be supporting them is key to understanding how to protect them. Through citizen science events like a BioBlitz, community members and parks agencies can work together to document, analyze and protect local pollinators.

The Davis family, from left: Brandy, Peyton, Maddie and Shane.

Peyton uses the app on her phone to identify a pollinator. 14

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Brandy, also a science teacher, enjoyed the local BioBlitz.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

What’s New

in Parks and Rec? While events have been postponed and canceled since March, the staff of the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department has been working to revive our favorite events, and create new ones, under new social distancing guidelines. “The Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department is very excited to be reintroducing activities to keep our community social, active and safe. Our staff is being very creative in offering new and modified programs for the community, and has been very busy making small upgrades and improvements throughout our park and trail system,” said Michael Huffstetler, director of the department. “The year 2020 has brought a lot of change,” he said. “In addition to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the department has had some retirements, new positions created, and is in the beginning stages of preparing a master plan for the next five years. We all are very excited for everything that the future holds for the city of Woodstock and the role parks and recreation will play in that. Our staff is focused, re-energized, and excited to formalize partnerships, work with community members, and continue to make Woodstock a great place to live, work, and most importantly, play.” For more details, check www.WoodstockParksandRec.com. 16

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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Mark Your Calendars

•

• Adopt-A-Trail - email adopt-a-trail@ woodstockga.gov. Partnering with Leave No Trace (lnt.org)

What’s Completed

A shade structure was built at Woodstock’s community garden

•

The downtown playground is completed, minus some ongoing landscaping improvements. Task force members with the clock in The Park at City Center.

•

The Little River Master Plan is nearing completion.

•

The Safe Kids Life Jacket Loaner Program was installed at Olde Rope Mill Park.

•

New trash and recycle bins and dog waste stations were installed in city parks.

•

Automated external defibrillators were installed at Woofstock Dog Park and Trailhead, and two AEDs were installed at Olde Rope Mill Park.

•

Cree

A community task force feasibility study was started for restoring the clock in The Park at City Center.

• AMPED in the Park. Oct. 3, Nov. 14 at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater. AMPED in the Park is a free monthly fitness series. All workouts are fitness friendly (meaning you don’t have to be super fit to participate). • 50+ Line Dancing. Meets 9-10:30 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays outdoors at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater • 50+ Walking Club. Meets 8 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Currently meeting at Dupree Park, but locations will change.

• 50+ Master Disc Golf. 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Fridays at Dupree Park. Course can be completed in less than an hour. Upcoming

What’s Next?

• Tis the Season to Be Green, a recycling and paper shredding event. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 7 at Woodstock Elementary School. www.WoodstockParksandRec.com

•

• Watch for announcements of senior center events, including pickleball open play, leagues and tournaments; lunch and learn; local “meet us there” trips; fitness in the park, and Woodstock Senior Runners powered by Foothills Running Club.

•

Skill feature upgrades to the family mountain bike at Dupree Park will be installed in October. Huffstetler said there will be three additions, along with instructional signage for each piece, cleanedup trail sections to bypass the elements, and potential scouting projects to enhance the trails.

AMPED in the Park participants maintain social distance.

Current

The Noonday Creek Trash Study is ongoing through February. The study, conducted by the Lake Allatoona Association and the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department, began when a trash collection containment boom (trash trap) was placed in Noonday Creek last month. Over the next six months, an examination of the trash volume and contents will take place, in order to determine the best methods required to capture and remove trash from this and other tributaries before it enters into Allatoona Lake.

• Letters to Santa. Beginning in December, kids can drop their letter to the Big Guy at the North Pole in the mailbox in the gazebo of the Park at City Center.

Plenty of social distancing at the line dance sessions.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

HOOKED on Books

Friends, Fare and Fun Invigorate Book Clubs BY GARY PARKES

Book clubs are more popular than ever, whether in person with social distance or virtual. There is something cathartic about sharing the love of the written word. For some, it is all about the books. For other groups, it may be about the drink of choice. Some are seriously committed to the discussion, while members of other groups are just happy to have a few hours to themselves. Whatever your reason, book clubs are great for everyone. And yes, men belong to book clubs, too, although in fewer numbers. Looking for a book club? There are many to choose from in our area. I am an active member of Reformation Brewery’s Books & Brews book club that meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month in the downtown Woodstock location. (Reformation hopes to start a club in the Canton location, meeting on the first Wednesday of the month starting this month.) Each of us reads different books within a general theme. Each attendee shares about the book(s) they read that month. This means our TBR (to be read) list grows as we learn about other recommended books. Drinking beer is optional; they also sell soft drinks. 18

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Joining the book club meeting under the big tree at Reformation Brewery are, from left: Gary Parkes, Paula Nix, Jill Wilson, Kim Burgett and Kaydee Christopherson.

Downtown Woodstock’s FoxTale Book Shoppe has been a staple in our community since 2007 and offers two book clubs. FoxTalk Book Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month. This original group has about 20 active members, who discuss one book that everyone reads. FoxTale’s newest book club is Hooked on Books, and typically meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. You can find details on the FoxTale clubs at https://foxtalebookshoppe.com/ or on Facebook. Recent selections included “This Tender Land” by William Kent Krueger, and “Trust Me” by Hank Phillippi Ryan. In some cases, the author will join the book club discussion in person or via Zoom!

Where else can you find a book club? Subdivisions, churches, libraries, online or workplaces often have book clubs. There are many online, in all genres, that you can access through social media sites such as Facebook. Want to start your own? That can be fun, too. Choosing books in varying genres will help to keep your book clubs and discussions fresh and ever-changing. It is most enjoyable when you have different opinions, so I suggest looking for books that may challenge your perspectives. Working with a local independent bookstore or library also can inspire great ideas for meaty books and author connections.

Gary Parkes works in marketing and has been a longtime bibliophile. He lives in Woodstock with his two daughters and can often be found at FoxTale Book Shoppe or Reformation Brewery.

Books and Business: the Perfect Mashup

Looking for something beyond the normal book club? The monthly entrepreneurship book club, known as the Learning Community, could be just what you’re looking for. Jonathan Chambers, community manager of entrepreneurship with the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, leads the group every second Thursday at the Circuit in downtown Woodstock. The Learning Community uses books to spur curiosity and community learning, and actionable conversations to improve entrepreneurs and their businesses. We asked Chambers to share more about this unique local book club. www.circuitwoodstock.com.

How many members, how often do you meet?

We meet every second Thursday at the Circuit at 10:30 a.m. Our group involves six local leaders and has grown recently to add two more.

When did your club begin?

In the fall of 2019, Ben Carter, of Carter Realty and Grow ROI, and I started a book club for entrepreneurs that was more than just a book club ... a monthly learning community of entrepreneurs who are naturally curious, eager to learn and grow, and wanted to put ideas to action to better themselves and their businesses. As one of our members, Justin Kier, said, “It’s so rare to find a group like this that is committed to not just discussing big ideas, but also how to practically put them into action. This is something I look forward to every month, because I walk out of the room better than when I walked in, every single time.”

How do you choose the books you read?

We read each book for two months — reading and discussing it the first month, and creating and executing our action plan the second month. Books are recommended by each member and voted on at the end of the second month.

What are your top tips for a successful club?

It’s not about books, it’s about people. Books are a tool to discover knowledge. Learning is best done in a community of friends with diverse stories, perspectives, and ideas. Make it about applying the knowledge, not about collecting it. Especially during COVID-19 and the turmoil in our world, time is of the essence. Maximize people’s time by making your club actionable.

What are you reading?

We just finished reading “Rehumanize Your Business,” about the power of personal videos for marketing and communication. To date, it was the most powerful and actionable book we have read. For September-October, we are reading “Story Driven: You Don’t Need to Compete When You Know Who You Are,” by Bernadette Jiwa. Stories drive everything that matters in business, including who we are as business owners. If we lean into our story, we don’t have to be distracted by or driven to competition. AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Book Lovers

Unite!

October is National Reading Club month, designated as such to promote the value of books and reading. To help celebrate the joy of reading, we decided to highlight some local book clubs. Their leaders shared valuable advice and the current book title their club members are reading. So, dive in and join a book club, or start one of your own. It's a great way to expand your reading library, and your network of friends!

1. 2. 3. 4.

When did your club begin? How many members, how often do you meet? How do you choose the books you read? What are your top three to five tips for a successful club?

Heritage of Towne Lake book club members enjoy lunch at the Swan House in Atlanta for lunch.

Bradshaw Farms

Lisa Laczko

1. Our book club has been meeting for six years. We normally take summers off, but some of us will meet up for dinner or go to the movies.

2. We meet once a month at my house in Bradshaw Farms. We are not exclusive to my neighborhood though. The one thing about our book club is that EVERYONE is welcome! We have a large number of members. We have had as few as five and as many as 25.

3. We have a Facebook group where we will throw out suggestions for books and just pick one. We have chosen some amazing books over the years that have expanded my reading genre greatly.

4. Reading the book isn’t a requirement. I believe we sometimes just need a get-together, and if some of us read the book, then it’s a win win! We always have food and drinks, two important things no group can go without. We have met in my driveway for the past two months and it’s been awesome. I have loved meeting with this amazing, eclectic group of women over the years, and our friendships have grown as well. My most important tip for a successful book club would be it’s OK if you don’t read the book, come anyway. “A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.” Proverbs 27:9 What We Are Reading

“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides 20

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Heritage of Towne Lake Debbie Nickerson

We are from Heritage at Towne Lake and started our book club about a year ago with 15 members meeting once a month. When we started, we decided we wanted to read books with a variety of genres.

Members take turns choosing books and are responsible that month for leading the discussion. If we read a heavy book one month, we try to change it up the next month with a mystery or something fun. Our discussions can get quite lively and sometimes include handouts, short videos or artifacts that go along with the story!

3. 4.

We have chosen several books with a local theme or from local authors and have taken a field trip to tour the Swan House after reading that book by Elizabeth Musser.

No book club is complete without food, so we take turns bringing snacks that oftentimes correlate with the book’s theme. COVID-19 has taken us out of commission for the last few months, but we are going to start up again, meeting outside, using social distancing. We also started a lending library in our neighborhood that we have been enjoying!

What We Are Reading

“The War Brides” by Helen Bryan.

Safety first was the focus of a recent Haney Walk meeting with members, front row from left: Candy Baylor and Lucy Wolt. Back row, from left: Edivette Lopez, Carla Bosselaar-Taal, Tricia Friedman and Judy Farris Northington.

Haney Walk

Candy Baylor

Haney Walk is a newer community with the first home built in the summer of 2015. Our first club meeting was January 2017 and the book was “The Zookeeper's Wife.”

The ladies from the Bradshaw Farm Book Club have been meeting on their host’s driveway in recent months.

We meet monthly and the size varies but we have been anywhere from five to 20 people. Our holiday white elephant wrapped book and cookie exchange tends to bring the most people. We meet monthly, and I am happy to say that since inception, except for pushing a couple dates back a month, we have continued and persisted despite life events.

3. 4.

Every month a different member volunteers to host. They usually suggest four to five books, and then we vote on them in our private Facebook page.

My type A personality would love to stick to questions about the book and book dialogue only, but I have learned that that would probably turn many people off. I have found the most success in not being so stringent. Anyone is welcome, whether or not the book was completed. We typically meet and socialize and then discuss our thoughts on the book. We always have drinks and snacks and we usually meet at a members home. I think our relaxed setting has even inspired some to read more and definitely engage. We have a wonderful group of women that I love seeing monthly and I hope we continue to grow in the future.

What We Are Reading

“Well Behaved Indian Women” by Saumya Dave. One of our members went to grade school with her, recommended the book, and we all voted it as our choice. She’s also a first-time author. AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Hey, Man,

Grab a Book!

Here are some reading suggestions for men, from our friends in the library system. After reading Gary Parkes’ comment on page 20 that not as many men belong to book clubs, we thought we’d try to start a new trend! Whether you’re simply looking to relax or trying to pass the time (if your favorite football team isn’t playing this season), these book recommendations might be the answer.

"Grant" by Ron Chernow

This biography about the 18th president of the United States, written by the author of “Alexander Hamilton,” will appeal to readers interested in history and the Civil War.

"All Creatures Great and Small" by James Herriot

This first book of the famous series, and the books that follow, are great examples of wonderful storytelling. If you love animals, you will love this book. If you don’t love animals, you will love this book.

"Devil in a Blue Dress" by Walter Mosley

This is the first novel in the Easy Rawlins detective series. The series will remind readers of a Raymond Chandler mystery, with a different setting in 1940s Los Angeles. This book inspired a successful film starring Denzel Washington.

"Lonesome Dove"

by Larry McMurtry

This is an epic adventure-love story of life in the American West, set in the late 19th century.

"A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

If you are not familiar with Bryson’s work, this is a good introduction. This book is based on a true story of his walk on the Appalachian Trail with a good friend. Bryson is a great storyteller, always informative, and frequently funny, with a dry wit that pops up out of nowhere.

Additional Authors to Check Out

Vince Flynn — espionage spy thrillers Dick Francis — mystery Tony Hillerman — Native American mystery-thrillers Craig Johnson — Walt Longmire Mystery Series Patrick McManus — “Sheriff Bo Tully” humorous mystery series Robert B. Parker — mystery-action 22

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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This credit union is federally insured by NCUA. AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020 23

Your Pie to Open in Woodstock thing Arnie Seyden can say without reservation: satisfaction is guaranteed for every customer. “Guests don’t have to compromise to order exactly what they want, because all orders are individually created. Each guest can come in and build their meals exactly how they like,” Seyden said. Fresh, Local Ingredients Produce from growers in Georgia, northern Alabama and the Carolinas is delivered twice weekly. The ingredients are chopped and prepared daily in the restaurant’s kitchen. Pizzas are individualized through the restaurant’s “down-the-line” style arrangement of fresh foods — from the standard pepperoni, olives and sausage to the more unique buffalo sauce, feta and artichokes. Customers can choose as many toppings as they want, at one price. However, Seyden recommends no more than five or six toppings so the pizza will cook properly. Gluten-free entrées will be prepared in the back of

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL PEYTON

Your Pie restaurant owners Arnie and Jenna Seyden have been busy. After a great reception by the community at its first location at Canton Marketplace in January 2019, the couple is ready to launch a second location later this year in Woodstock, in the new Ridgewalk Landing development near Costco on Ridgewalk Parkway. “Jenna and I have lived in the Canton/Woodstock community for 20 years, and raised our family here,” Seyden said. “We are extremely excited to open our newest Your Pie location. Those of you who have visited our Canton store know that our family is dedicated to the highest quality product and service. We look forward to providing this same special environment in Woodstock and welcome you all to our extended Your Pie family. From our family to yours, we hope to see you soon.” Your Pie offers pizzas with your choice of 40 toppings; regular, cauliflower or glutenfree crusts; and other entrées, including pasta dishes and paninis. There’s one

The Seyden family from left: Dylan, Jenna, Arnie, Allyson and Amanda.

the house, separate from the other ingredients so there’s no chance of contamination. Authentic Italian Touches The steps taken to create the perfect pizza reflect the way Your Pie founders believe pizza should be made: from scratch dough that’s hand-tossed and baked in a brick oven. The advantages of using a brick oven are numerous: shorter cooking times in 550600 degree temperatures; a unique flavor that sears into the crust, and evenly distributed heat. Overall, it creates a nongreasy entrée that’s better tasting than those cooked in conventional pizza ovens, Seyden said. All In The Family Your Pie gives the Seyden family a chance to work together. Arnie and Jenna have 60 years’ combined experience owning businesses. Daughter Amanda has degrees in

marketing and sales and was general manager of a local pizza restaurant for many years. Son Dylan has restaurant management experience and earned a business degree in college. Youngest daughter Allyson, a student, has worked in the food service industry for several years. The family dynamics stretch beyond the five Seydens. With a group of highly energetic, young adults on staff, Arnie and Jenna find themselves encouraging and mentoring their youthful employees. “I often tell people that Jenna and I went from having five kids (we have two that aren’t involved in the business) to 25 kids. That’s how close we all are as a group,” he said about the Canton restaurant. “I’ve personally been so surprised to see how much these kids have learned, and how much they’ve come out of their shells.”

Your Pie Woodstock | 285 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock GA 30188 | yourpie.com/stores/woodstock |770-827-8875 24

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Black Business Owners Overcoming Challenges to Success Gerald Griffith

How have you overcome obstacles you’ve faced?

As someone who relocated to Cherokee County in 2009, I had ZERO connections within the community. That was a huge challenge when you are in a smaller community where referrals and wordof-mouth are often the way businesses grow and evolve. I started a voiceover conference from nothing that grew into the largest event of its kind, attracting people from around the world. Yet, here in Cherokee, I am largely unknown. In this county, it takes time to build relationships and earn the trust of those making decisions. If you are working with schools, churches, or community organizations, it is important to understand things are often decided by committees, which can slow the process. If you do not have any connections that can speak up for you, it is going to be a harder road to travel. It is still possible to get through these layers, but it takes time and patience.

VoiceOver City Media https://voiceovercity.com

Gerald is a U.S. Army veteran. Originally from Florida, he relocated to Woodstock in 2009, with his wife and two teenage children. Gerald is active in the community and enjoys meeting new people.

How did you become an entrepreneur? What is VoiceOver City Media?

My background is a pretty mixed bag. I am originally from Florida where I grew up as the youngest of 11 kids. I was always around extended family and as the nephew of a pastor, I often found myself around very social and engaging people. That continued as I became a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Combat Veteran of the U.S. Army. It is in my DNA to want to contribute to the growth and development of others. VoiceoverCity Media Services has become so much more than a business that started as a voiceover training and event resources provider. I personally work with people and organizations to find creative ways for them to leverage various types of media to increase awareness of their events, products, or services. I am a partner in education at Etowah High School and E.T. Booth Middle School, where I spend time sharing with kids who have an interest in media. I have a kid that attends each of these schools, and they are involved in the media programs. One of the highlights for me is being able to assist with the live streaming of their sports programs. 26

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Has COVID-19 caused you or your business to adapt? PIVOT … PIVOT … PIVOT … PIVOT. It is very important that people and businesses understand that pivoting is crucial to success and survival. There will be times and situations that arise that are completely unforeseen and if we cannot adjust our plans, goals, ideals, we are likely to fail.

How did you stay positive in the midst of challenges?

Our reaction to the moment makes a big difference in how our situation unfolds. It does not mean I see everything through rosecolored glasses, but it does mean I strive to make a conscious choice to have rose-colored thinking. After all, being mad, angry, or quitting is highly unlikely to move you any closer to a solution. One thing that keeps me positive is taking time to visit nature. My favorite place is the beach, but there are other places in nature that will work too. When you take time to get away from everything, you have time to remember that life is more than the things we surround ourselves with or the titles we wear. Nothing reminds me of this more than watching the sunrise over the ocean as I listen to the sounds of the surf.

How are you working to stay competitive?

I am staying in touch with my contacts at schools, local businesses, and The Circuit.

What lessons have you learned about yourself or your business?

Between the loss of my oldest brother on New Year’s Eve, COVID-19, which wiped my calendar clean, and a recent health emergency involving a family member, I’ve learned that what I do is about more than business in terms of dollars and cents. It is about finding ways to positively contribute to those I meet. I have learned that in a minute everything you thought you knew could change and what you are left with is something you could have never prepared for.

Meet the last two of the four business owners celebrated by the Cherokee Office Of Economic Development during August, which was Black-Owned Business Month in America. We hope these stories, including those of Jerry King and Shalakay Gibbs in our September issue, inspire you. You can see the interviews in their entirety at cherokeega.org, or on the COED social media outlets.

Maduka Chidebelu-Eze

How have you overcome obstacles you’ve faced?

The obvious obstacle is COVID-19 – a unique challenge that started affecting my business in early February because of the global nature of my venture. Deals that should have closed went through months of delays because of numerous changes and reallocation of capital. To overcome, we have focused on our client and partner relationships and have been transparent about our challenges and the steps we are taking to overcome them. We have also improved our focus and have continued to develop our products and forge new relationships to help solve the current challenges we face.

Has COVID-19 caused you or your business to adapt?

Knnktor

www.knnktor.com Maduka’s road to entrepreneurship goes back to his father’s private hospital in Nigeria. A student of medicine in England and Germany, his father aspired to improve accessibility to healthcare in his home country of Nigeria. Maduka, was born in England and lived in Germany before moving to Nigeria, where he watched as his father’s passion impacted his community, in the large city where he operated and in his hometown.

How did you become an entrepreneur? What is Knnktor?

I studied engineering at Oral Roberts University and mechanical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology. My a-ha moment came in a macroeconomics lecture at Emory University, where I obtained my MBA. The data available on African nations was inconsistent. It has always been evident that Africa is rich in resources that could solve a multitude of the world’s problems, but there was one underlying thing that made those resources seemingly less obtainable: the lack of foreign direct investments (FDI). I am passionate about the well-being of the people in that region of the world. Even though there are so many factors that affect the economic health of the middle class in Africa, I was focused on one thing that I believe would drastically improve the accessibility of FDI in the region: perception.

COVID-19 did not affect the nature of the business but forced us to shift our focus. Knnktor was focused on supporting the establishment of international business partnerships. But as COVID-19 began to take shape, Knnktor has since shifted its focus on the development of the KBCI platform. This unique tool is at the heart of all Knnktor services while preparing Knnktor to scale for maximum impact.

How did you stay positive in the midst of challenges?

The foundation for everything I do is based on my faith as a Christian in Jesus Christ, and I have learned to hand over issues that seem too difficult to bear. There is one word of wisdom that I have held close for years in my career and it came from a client for whom we were trying to solve a problem early in my career at Lucent Technologies. This engineering director said, “Change your mindset and view every problem not as an obstacle, but as a challenge to solve the problem.” Each new challenge helps me grow as an individual.

How are you working to stay competitive?

My wife, Ciara Mokeme, along with her boutique marketing agency, The Adaobi Group, is the reason why I am visible and will continue to have a competitive advantage. She keeps me digitally relevant through the original design and redesign of my website. With her permission, I am also able to network in the community. It has been a bit difficult lately to effectively network but maintaining and building on the existing relationships has been my focus. From there, many opportunities have come to fruition.

What lessons have you learned about yourself or your business?

I was recently rushed to the hospital and had to go through an emergency appendectomy. Through that experience, I learned a few things. Anything can happen at any moment. Life is very fragile, and it is only by God’s grace that we live. Hug your loved ones and say “I love you” as often as possible because they will not always be there. You may have to go through it on your own sometimes, so live every day to the fullest. This experience has taught me as an individual and business to always be ready. As my wife, Ciara would say, “You do not have to get ready if you STAY ready!” AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY BY YETIVE SIMMONS

Color Perfect with Clark Salon Professionals C

lark Salon & Spa is a full-service salon and spa that takes care of guests across North Georgia. Proudly serving the Woodstock/Canton community for 19 years, Clark Salon & Spa has a team of more than 20 skilled professionals consisting of stylists, nail technicians, massage therapists, and an esthetician. Salon owner Keenan Clark has worked hard building this business to be the best it can be, meeting the beauty and spa needs of all guests. In fact, Clark Salon and Spa is the only full-service salon and spa in Georgia that offers floatation therapy with wave float rooms.

by colorists for colorists, and the team of professionals prides itself on using the award-winning hair color line as well as other top-notch product lines, such as R+Co and Moroccan Oil. “In my 19 years of being a hair colorist, it’s definitely the best hair color I’ve ever worked with,” Keenan says about the Schwarzkopf line. “It keeps the hair healthy and shiny. It controls unwanted brassy tones or creates vibrant reds that actually last better than any color I’ve ever seen. The longevity of the color line is excellent and so is the gray coverage.”

Color Perfection

The key to maintaining fabulous hair is taking great care of it. Clark Salon & Spa uses R+Co, a UV protectant product line that’s cruelty free, gluten free, vegetarian and color safe. The line’s five fragrances blend and smell amazing together. The best-selling shampoo and

Always committed to using the best color in the industry, Keenan chooses Schwarzkopf Color with no hesitation. Clark Salon & Spa is a fully certified Schwarzkopf Color salon. Schwarzkopf Color was developed

Key to Fabulous Hair

conditioner pairing, Television, provides hair with shine, body and strength. The shampoo is paraben and sulfate free, which means that a little can go a long way. Keenan says that Clark Salon & Spa’s guests can’t get enough of the thickening style foam, Rodeo Star, which gives dramatic volume to hair of any length. This product line offers specific products for all hair types, so guests are using the best possible formula for their hair needs. Dry shampoos, waxes, sprays and gels are among the range of R+Co products available at the salon. If you’ve always wanted silky, shiny, and healthy hair, Moroccan Oil products were designed for you. The foundation is the non-greasy formula and high-performing ingredients. Clark Salon & Spa carries this rejuvenating product line for its amazing styling results and replenishing ingredients, including argon oil. A salon favorite

Clark Salon & Spa | 10511 Bells Ferry Road Suite 500 Canton, GA 30114 | 28

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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Keenan Clark’s Tips for

Your Perfect Hair Color Having your hair color done by a professional colorist should make you look younger. It is probably the fastest, least expensive, most effective, painless and harmless anti-aging service that’s available to us. I always tell people that having your hair color done correctly can take 10 years off your appearance. • Your hair color should enhance and complement your complexion and reduce unwanted lines.

is the dry shampoos, specializing in light and dark tones perfect for different hair colors.

Career Opportunities

Keenan is proud of Clark Salon & Spa’s culture; he cites many reasons for the spa’s excellent employee retention. “There are many benefits to being part of our team. We offer an apprenticeship program for new students, and we have a career path with trackable promotions,” he says. “We provide in-house education and cover half the cost of any outside education. We do one-on-one monthly coaching to establish and hit goals with the support of myself and two managers.” In addition to encouraging the employees’ professional goals, Keenan promotes personal well-being and development by offering weekly pay periods, free floatation therapy and a free gym membership to OneLife

Fitness. Keenan is most proud of the company’s matching 401k plan. Following in his father’s footsteps, Keenan takes care of his employees, which is the secret to his success. Keenan says, “I care more about the hearts of my team members more than anything else.” When asked about available employment opportunities, Keenan says, “We are always hiring. You just need to be nice and coachable.” “If you’d like a consultation, it would be our pleasure to sit down with you and talk hair. I’d like to invite you to see and experience the difference in hair color done right at Clark Salon and Spa. We look forward to serving you,” Keenan says. “And we have exciting news! Our newly renovated salon is complete and we love it. Come in for a tour of your new salon and spa home. We have some amazing promotions scheduled for the remainder of 2020.”

770-479-0052 | www.clarksalon.com

Clark Salon & Spa |

• Lighten your hair color one level with each decade of life. This will keep you looking younger and keep the contrast of regrowth less noticeable. • Your colorist should never overlap permanent color on your hair. I have built my clientele and reputation by specializing in single process grey coverage. Each of my single process clients leave my chair with the dimension that looks highlighted. You do not have to pay for highlights if your single process is done right.

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From left: Rachel Sibley, Devon Johnson, Elise McGovern, Christine Moffit, Abby Killian, Kimber McGill, Megan Griffin, Kara HoOn, Keenan Clark, Sarah McNeely, Alison Martin, Rachele Bruu, Michele Prance, Stephanie Prenzlin, Cara Norton, Ryan Morris, Kami Gould and Tonianne Lackey.

• Your color should not be darker around your face, but a level lighter for anti-aging and softness.

• Your hair should remain healthy and shiny when your color is done correctly.

@clarksalonandspa AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Conquering Retirement Challenges for Women DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

When it comes to retirement, some women face obstacles that can make saving for retirement a challenge. Women typically earn less than their male counterparts, and often take time out of the workforce to care for children or other family members. Added to the fact that women typically live longer than men, retirement money for women may need to stretch even further.1 Despite these challenges, there are a lot of reasons to be hopeful.2 Looking ahead can help you conquer these unique obstacles. Review your existing situation. Do you want to spend your years traveling together, or do you envision staying closer to home? Are you seeing yourself moving to a retirement community, or do you want to live as independently as you can? Sit down with your spouse, if you’re married, to discuss your visions for retirement. You can't see whether you're on track for your goals if you haven't defined them. And if you find you’re falling short of where you want to be, you can work together to strategize about how you either can get to where you want to go or to adjust your strategy so that it fits your existing situation.1 Get creative. These challenges don’t have to stop you from saving for retirement if you’re willing to get creative. If you plan to or have taken off time from the workforce, try and increase your contributions to your retirement accounts while you are working. If you’re staying home while your spouse works, you may be able to contribute to an individual retirement account.3 Under the SECURE Act, once you reach age 72, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a traditional individual retirement account and other retirement plans, in most circumstances. Withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Under the CARES Act, the 10% penalty may be waived in 2020. Traditional IRAs may be fully or partially deductible, depending on your adjusted gross income.

If you’re caregiving for an elderly relative, there are ways to be paid for your time. According to AARP, the Department of Veterans Affairs or Medicaid may be a potential source of income. Working with a professional who has expertise in this field can help you navigate the complicated medical structure, while also helping you earn income for work that you’re doing.3 Get involved. One of the best things you can do is to get involved in conversations about finances. Many women undervalue their knowledge in this area, and having regular conversations with your spouse, family and financial professional can help ensure that you always know where things stand.3 While women may face additional challenges, careful preparation with your financial professional may help you to live a fulfilling retirement. 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 iInvestment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note: Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor a recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations: 1 - CNBC.com, March 6, 2020. 2 - Entrepreneur.com, August 13, 2020. 3 - MarketWatch.com, March 6, 2020.

Woodstock - Towne Lake 145 Towne Lake Pkwy Suite 201

(770) 592-5554

Find us near you at SmileDoctors.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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.

Canton

205 Waleska Rd Suite 1-A

(770) 345-4155

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Se habla Español Smile Doctors of Georgia - Dana E. Fender, D.M.D.

Students’ Total Well-Being is Top Priority

uring our first five years, we have had the honor and privilege of being an integral part in the improvement of the lives of our students and their families. It would not be possible without the talented and impassioned mentors/ teachers we affectionately call the Super Crew. It has been critical to us, as we’ve developed our program, that the adults in the building truly care not only about what they are doing and the students they serve, but also they maintain a growth mindset, always striving to improve themselves. We believe a school is only as good as the people in it. While curriculum can be copied, a culture of understanding, flexibility and growth can be organically built only with intention and focus. A focus on the total well-being of our students is the only way C.O.R.E. Community School can transform

Students have fun with Music Teacher, Andrew Scherm.

the perceptions the students may have previously had about school and learning. Parents and students agree. “Thank you all for everything you do! My kids love their school and I can’t begin to express how happy that makes me … all I know is there is this incredible group of teachers and staff that CELEBRATE my kids daily. If I have learned anything about Annie and Dymond, it is that they are intentional

with every move they make and I have no doubt they chose each of you because they saw something truly special in you. Annie and Dymond, thank you for your vision, your love, and the countless hours you pour into your students and staff. We love you!” — Parent When asked what they like about C.O.R.E., the students say: “The openness to communicate on odd topics. The friendly environment that both the students and staff cultivate. The fact that teachers act and communicate like actual people, not the same bland cookie-cutter personality most public school teachers have.” — High school student “The awareness and respect that the teachers and staff show students with all types of difficulties. The Friday activities and community service. All the friends I’ve made along the way.” — Middle school student

CORE COMMUNITY SCHOOL | 203 Woodpark Place, Bldg. A, Woodstock 30188 | 770-704-9144 | www.thecoreschool.org Sponsored Content

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Lots of New for Corduroy Blue

Woodstock brothers and altrock musicians Atticus and Luke Roness have announced a new band name - The Corduroy Blue - and a recently released single, “Gimme Love.” The musicians explain how they decided on the new name (they used to be called Aquashade) and the importance of their new single. The brothers: “Our debut single “Gimme Love” was written from a place of nostalgia and admiration for the great rock before us and the rock ‘n’ roll to come. Our hope is that the song provokes excitement and headbanging, all the while maintaining a fresh feel in the rock genre.” Atticus Roness: “I want to break through the fabric of modern pop, built upon the ‘fabric’ of the rock gods we grew up on like Bowie, Lou Reed, Elton John, etc.” Luke Roness: “Everyone loves corduroy. No matter what age you are, you’ve worn it, and it has a nostalgic quality to it, which our new sound lends itself to.’ Bandmates and brothers Luke and Atticus Roness.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Jason Dickerson

Jennifer Davis

Gary Sullenger

Whitney Spear

Jeff Butterworth

Lisa-Marie Haygood

Irrational Kindness is a Thing

Many of us who love Chick-fil-A may know Kevin Williams, owner/operator of locations at the Canton Marketplace, Riverstone Parkway and Hickory Flat. What you may not know, however, is that Kevin is impacting the community in more ways. He created the Irrational Kindness (IK) initiative, has begun a podcast, and is looking forward to his book being published in 2021. “We lift up the celebrity in every human by talking to local friends who are doing extraordinary things,” Williams said about the podcast. “We have some amazing people all around us here in Cherokee County, and to be encouraged by their courage, persistence, creativity and hopeful spirit is inspiring.” Williams describes the initiative. “We are on a mission together to find joy in life’s journey rather than just having our eyes locked on a destination. Together, we will be irrational and prioritize kindness toward ourselves and others, over everything.” But wait! There’s more. January 2021 is the scheduled release date for a book that’s been in the works for more than three years. “Think of this book as an operating manual for the heart - written for teens, moms, dads, students, retirees, recent graduates, and dreamers—bound together with the knowledge that our jobs are much more than jobs, and our lives are about much more than serving ourselves. This book is a harmonious reminder that our hopes and dreams don’t have to be derailed—not by our fears, our pasts, or by people who make us feel like we have to know everything to be successful, or even just to get started. We can’t wait to share this story of our community cheering each other on.” Find out more at IrrationalKindness.com.

What’s New at the CCEF

The Cherokee County Educational Foundation (CCEF) has added five new members to the organization’s board, bringing different ideas, skills, and perspectives to CCEF. The new members are Jason Dickerson, Judge Jennifer Davis, Dr. Gary Sullenger, Whitney Spear, and Jeff Butterworth. Executive Director Lisa-Marie Haygood recently earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation, the highest professional credential in the association industry. Applicants must complete a minimum of 100 hours of specialized professional development, pass a stringent examination, pledge to uphold a code of ethics, and have experience with non-profit organization management. To maintain the certification, individuals must undertake ongoing professional development and activities in association and nonprofit management. More than 4,500 professionals currently hold the CAE credential. Haygood has served as the foundation executive director since 2017. CCEF is a charitable, nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the students and staff of the Cherokee County School District by promoting teaching and learning and by celebrating achievements. www.cherokeecountyeducationalfoundation.org.

Kyle Jones is an aviation electronics technician.

Welcome Home, Kyle!

Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Jones, a 2015 Cherokee High School graduate, recently returned home after a sevenmonth deployment aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Jones is an aviation electronics technician aboard the carrier. He’s responsible for repairing electrical components on board the ship. “I love fixing issues that most others cannot,” he said. “When I get a piece of gear in, it’s my job to troubleshoot it to the smallest at-fault component and repair or replace it.” Since departing its homeport of Norfolk, Virginia, in January 2020 for the ship’s Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), the aircraft carrier deployed to the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean.

Kevin Williams and Princess Moon, right, in the recording studio with Nancy Easterling, who was born in Korea and now works with Chick-fil-A Inc. Princess is the podcast’s co-host and director of human resources at Chick-fil-A Canton.

Podcast guest Matthew McMahon, a River Ridge senior, is the definition of triumphant, having overcome childhood cancer at age 11. AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

and History Canton Historic Haunts www.cantonhaunts.com

Take a trip back into Canton’s past 200 years, and learn about some of the strangest, most fascinating, and downright unexplainable accounts of the spirits that have chosen to make their presence known within the town’s square. This 2-hour-guided walking tour winds through the Downtown Canton Historic District and is family- friendly.

Ghosts of Marietta

http://ghostsofmarietta.com Tour the historic streets of Marietta, a city with a past that is deep in tradition. In fact, it’s rumored that some residents chose never to leave. Whether it is the tale of the spirit of a departed Civil War soldier, or a mysterious resident of one of Marietta's stately homes, you will hear the stories behind these mysteries and, maybe, if you're lucky, experience them as well. Tour guides tell stories based on a mix of documented sightings, firsthand experiences and history.

Historic Oakland Cemetery https://oaklandcemetery.com

As Atlanta’s oldest cultural site, Historic Oakland Cemetery offers a window into the city’s rich and fascinating history. Oakland is the final resting place for more than 70,000 souls, including many Atlanta founders, and noted citizens of Georgia. A visit to this Victorian garden cemetery provides opportunities to start a dialogue about the historic past. 34

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ost towns, no matter what size, have stories to tell. Some are scary, others odd and mysterious. Regardless of how much truth there is to the tales, ghost tours can be an entertaining way to spend the evening, especially as Halloween approaches. We’ve put together this list of nearby tours to help you get started. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring a flashlight and your camera. You never know who or what you might bump into. And, for those unfamiliar with the term “haints,” it is a word with deep Southern roots that has been attributed to many cultures, and is used to refer to ghosts and haunts.

Roswell Ghost Tours

http://roswellghosttour.com Experience the charm and mystery of the South through Roswell’s many ghost stories. Your guide will lead you on a 2.5-hour tour through the city’s historic district. One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to Founders Cemetery, the burial site of the founder of Roswell, Roswell King. You may be surprised by how many spirits reside behind the walls of the antebellum mansions that Gen. William T. Sherman didn’t burn. The deep ravines with the ruined mills hold secrets of exiled mill workers whose toilsome moans still may be heard. Grand Greek Revival mansions and humble mill workers’ apartments are some of the haunted sites you’ll see on this easy walking tour.

Dahlonega Haunts Self-Guided Tour http://dahlonega.org/historic-downtown-4/ ghost-tours

Dahlonega is rich with ghost lore and is known for two famous photographs of ghosts, so get your camera ready. Be prepared to hear all the local ghost stories that accompany this city’s history, such as “The Woman Who Waits By the Window,” and “The Chessboard Ghost.” The Dahlonega Haunts Self-Guided Tour is a group project of the 2012 Class of Leadership Lumpkin County.

HAINT HUNTING!

Bringing More Art to the Green BY JUSTIN SPAINHOUR-ROTH

One of the events we look forward to hosting every year is Art on the Green, our annual open-air art market where local artists and artisans are able to display and sell their work. We get to see and celebrate so many mediums: paintings, mixed media, photography, handcrafted jewelry, eccentric gifts … and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! It’s a perfect day to go outside, enjoy the weather, and pick up special, one-ofa-kind gifts for the holidays, which will be here before you know it. This year’s event, in its seventh year, takes place 1-6 p.m. Oct. 4. As we’ve planned, we’ve been reminded just how unique and fun arts experiences can be outside. There’s something so immersive when it comes to being at an event outdoors. To me, you feel more present and connected to what you’re experiencing, like enjoying a night of music under the stars with friends and family, seeing Shakespeare’s words come to life right in front of you, or walking around in the fresh air and finding a piece of art that seems like it was practically made for you. So, as we’ve been re-imagining what our 2020-21 Season of Character looks like at Elm Street and how we can best serve our community right now, we keep coming back to offering events outside on the Elm Street Event Green (or the Green as we like to call it). We’re able to create immersive experiences where we can space people out to feel socially distant, safe, comfortable, and fun. We can bring more art to the Green in ways we haven’t been able to, which has really redefined what it means to be an arts center during these uncertain times. Instead of dwelling on the past or what could have been, I encourage you to look forward and discover what’s possible like we have these past few months. You’ll be surprised what you find and what you can do.

There’s something so immersive when it comes to being at an event outdoors.

Justin Spainhour-Roth, marketing manager for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, has a bachelor of arts in communication in musical theater from Bowling Green State University.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET

A Cabaret On The Green

Sammy Rae & The Friends

Musical | Theatre Season

Indie Funk | Lantern Series

NEW!

OCT 10, 2020

OCT 17, 2020

Comedy of Errors Shakespeare | Theatre Season

OCT 23-25, 2020 NEW!

Our 7th Annual Outdoor Art Market

ART ON THE GREEN OCT 4, 2020 1:00-6:00PM

SHOP & SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS & ARTISANS

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Watching His Garden Grow

At age 6, Jaxon Thornton has learned that patience pays off. In his case, it came in the form of a huge pumpkin! Jaxson, a student at Arnold Mill Elementary School, wanted to join the annual gardening fun and grow something in the garden space of a family friend in the Hickory Flat area. On May 10, he planted pumpkin seeds, diligently watered them and checked their progress. His grandmother, Shawn Myers, shared these photos with us and said he really enjoyed the experience! Jaxonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents are Kevin and Vanessa Thornton.

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4 AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Updates on Road Improvement Projects BY HARRY JOHNSTON

Two major road improvement projects are moving forward to help alleviate traffic issues on Bells Ferry Road and Highway 20. After many years of planning, construction began in June on the Highway 20 upgrade between Canton and Cumming. The project will expand the road to six lanes, divided by a 20-foot median. The budgeted cost is $550 million, fully funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation, with more than half of that spent to purchase right-of-way. Traffic signals will remain at the currently signalized intersections. Most others will become reduced-crossingU-turn (RCUT) intersections. At the RCUTs, traffic will be allowed to exit the highway to the right and left, and to U-turn. But, traffic entering the highway only will be able to turn right. Those wishing to travel in the opposite direction will need to U-turn at the next intersection or designated U-turn site. Some of the U-turn sites will be wide enough to accommodate tractor-trailers. The first phase, under construction now, is from I-575 Exit 19 to Scott Road. The second phase, from Scott Road to Union Hill Road, is scheduled to begin construction next summer. Work then will shift to the eastern section, from Highway 369 to Cumming, beginning fall of 2022. The last phase, from Union Hill Road to Highway 369, will begin construction in the fall of 2023. Each phase will take about three years, so they will overlap. Traffic will remain open throughout the project. A good description of the project can be found at http://www.dot.ga.gov/BS/Projects/SpecialProjects/ SR20Improvements/I575NCorners.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

The Georgia Department of Transportation also has released a conceptual plan to rebuild Highway 20 west of Canton to the already-four-laned section in Bartow County. The concept plan calls for a median-divided four-lane highway, with multi-lane roundabouts at the following major intersections: • The current “Vee,” where Highway 20 intersects Old Highway 5, just south of the connector road from I-575 Exit 16 • Butterworth Road • Riverbend Way (Knox Elementary) • Highway 108 in Sutallee The roundabouts would eliminate all traffic signals in that Highway 20-west corridor, except the one at the former Teasley Middle School (now ACE Academy). Other intersections would be RCUTs. The schedule isn’t firm yet, but construction is expected to begin soon after the Canton-to-Cumming project is completed in 2026. In a joint state-county project, the county continues to buy right-of-way to replace the narrow Bells Ferry Road bridge over Little River, and to extend the four lanes of Bells Ferry Road northward to Victoria Road. The state will pay for construction, expected to begin next year on the bridge, and in 2022 on the four-lane portion of the project. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts about these matters. Please email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com. Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.

Tips for Keeping Hearing Aids Clean

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If you are using your hearing aid, but still cannot hear, chances are your hearing aid is overdue for a thorough cleaning. Your ear canals produce wax, which is an important substance that protects and lubricates your ears. However, ear wax build-up is the most common cause of hearing aid issues. Hearing aids are an investment, and it is important to keep them clean. When handling and cleaning hearing aids, make sure you wear gloves, to prevent the spread of germs, and hold them over a soft surface to avoid damage if they are dropped.

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Five Cleaning Tips

Wipe hearing aids down each week. This is a simple way to prevent the accumulation of dry skin and ear wax from clogging the openings on the hearing aids. It is recommended to use a wet wipe that does not contain any type of alcohol, since alcohol can cause a hearing aid to break down. Avoid using any type of water, because hearing aids are not waterproof.

Replace the filter. Most hearing aids contain a filter, or some other type of cover, that prevents wax from getting inside the microphone of the device. A clogged filter can result in weak, distorted sounds, or no sound. The recommendation is to change filters every one to two months.

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Change your device’s dome. If your device is a behind-the-ear style, you may have a silicone tip on the part that is inserted into your ear canal. This piece is called a dome. The dome should be changed along with the filter every one to two months. If you do not have extra domes, they can be washed in warm, soapy liquid, dried completely, and placed back on the hearing aid.

Brush your hearing aids. A tool that is helpful in cleaning hearing aids is a brush. If you do not have a brush from your hearing healthcare provider, a children’s toothbrush will do the trick. Brush off the ports on the hearing aid to remove any dry skin. Also, brush off the battery door compartment to prevent battery corrosion.

Use a hearing aid dryer each night. This will remove moisture from your hearing aids. Many modern dryers also are electronic, and feature a UV light that can sanitize the hearing aids. Using a dryer will greatly extend the life of your devices.

Dr. Mary Swantek joined North Georgia Audiology in 2019. She earned her doctorate degree from the University of Florida and her bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Bring Fall Into Your Living Space BY PACITA WILSON

As the leaves begin to change and I feel that first cool fall breeze, I know my favorite time of the year has arrived. When it comes to transitioning your home décor to fall, pick one space and begin by adding texture to create a warm cozy, fall feeling. Let’s begin by focusing on the living room. My living room is an important space in my home for me and my family. It’s where we relax and enjoy time with one another. When wanting to achieve the ultimate fall look, I first start by bringing textures and warmth into a room. An easy way to bring in color and texture is by restyling your throw pillows. Mixing textures and patterns creates a great contrast to your sofa. Examples of pillow fabrics that have great fall texture are fur, leather and velvet. There’s no better way to create a cozy atmosphere than snuggling up with the perfect blanket or throw. 40

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Place a knit throw over your sofa to add a comfortable, soft feel to the room. Another easy way to include fall textures in your living room is by accessorizing your coffee table. When decorating a coffee table, always remember that less is more. My go-to feature is a simple planter filled with greenery. I also love decorating my table with a metal tray then adding small accessories such as ceramic vases and a candle. I hope these tips help you spruce up your decor this fall season!

Pacita Wilson is the owner of Pineapple Park Home. www.pineapplepark.com

6242 Old Highway 5 Suite A1 Woodstock, GA

678-400-8160 www.sustostacobar.com On Facebook, Instagram

IN THE SPOTLIGHT • The business.

Susto’s Taco Bar is a family-owned business. Owners Eduardo and Nathalia Rivera are passionate about offering excellent Tex-Mex food and high-quality customer service. The restaurant brings customers closer to Latin culture through delicious plates, all in a comfortable, family-friendly environment. Each plate is made with great care and attention. The ultimate goal of the owners is to become the best go-to spot in the neighborhood. Susto’s Taco Bar offers great daily specials and tasty, freshly-made margaritas accompanying great moments as a community.

• What’s unique.

Susto’s Taco Bar is detail-oriented when it comes to food and ambience. All decorations have been brought from Mexico to create a real connection to Mexican culture. The menu is designed to satisfy customers’ favorite plates, using only high-quality ingredients. Customer service is also a main priority; Susto’s team welcomes customers with the best energy possible. The restaurant provides live music and daily specials to bring the community together.

“I love the environment and the vibe of this restaurant. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. The server was attentive and took the time to explain the menu and made really amazing suggestions. My family and I ordered the Susto’s Taco Box, which is perfect for sharing with the table, along with their amazing fresh guacamole. The margaritas were on point; my favorite one was the jalapeno margarita. This restaurant has become my go-to Mexican stop, highly recommended.” - Shara Duque

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

New Hairstyle Creates New Outlook on Life BY TIM TIMMONS

Alicia has been in need of a makeover, not just for her hair, but for her life. The 43-year-old Canton woman was selected by Salon Gloss for its October makeover because Alicia was looking for a dramatic change that would coincide with a personal change. “I got really good at being invisible. I got really good at blending into the background,” Alicia said. “I didn’t feel worthy of love, I felt like I was invisible, and I didn’t exist. I lived my life with a routine that was the same every day. Once I was able to make a change and remove the negative from my life, I was free and ready to express the new me.” During her consultation, Alicia said she needed a boost to shed her old identity, and I recommended a color change to a soft lavender. To achieve this, we highlighted her hair, and then gave her an overall application of purple shading to create the beautiful dimensional soft lavender result. “It was nice to step out of my comfort zone and do something that I would have never done before. I have not been comfortable in my own skin for so long. When Tim recommended the color change to help represent the personal change in my life, it was a perfect representation of the new person that I was becoming,” Alicia said. For the cut, I wanted to de-emphasize Alicia’s extended hairline and fine hair by keeping the length of her hair, adding long layering and strong side-swept bangs. This provided Alicia with the illusion of fuller, thicker hair and a lower set hairline. To match her new powerful cut and color, stylist Marisa took a powerful approach for Alicia‘s makeup color palette. Marisa began with a lighter foundation that would even out Alicia’s rosy skin tone. “I applied bronzers to give her complexion a healthy glow. To provide the final complementary touches, I enhanced her eyebrows, created smoky eyes, and accentuated her look with a powerful red lip,” Marisa said. “My hair change has brought back the fun girl, and helped make me more charismatic and carefree. Plus, it’s a great conversation piece,” Alicia said. “The reaction has been great. Everybody loves it, especially the kids at my job where I work.” Prior to the change, Alicia admits looking into the mirror was difficult for her. But her new style has made her more confident in how she looks and feels. “I used to wear my hair short, but during the pandemic my hair grew out and Tim said this was the opportunity to capitalize on my longer locks and try a new style,” she said. “I actually do my hair now, I style it for work, I wear it down, where I used to always wear it up, I try new styles for both work and fun.”

BEFORE

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

AFTER Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss and Spa Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/ educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and MTV video music awards.

Keep This Appointment on Your Calendar BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

With everything that has happened this year, the days, weeks and months have run together. Many things have been canceled or rescheduled. But, no matter what is happening, one thing you should keep on your schedule is your annual mammogram. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a good reminder to get your mammogram on your calendar, if you have not done so already. The American Cancer Society recommends you begin discussing breast cancer screenings with your doctor between ages 35-40, but the discussions should start sooner if you have a family history. A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. However, about 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history. Therefore, it’s important not to assume that you don’t need screenings if there’s no history in your family. The goal of breast cancer screenings is to catch problems at an early stage, so treatment is more effective and a cure is possible. Regular screenings can detect cancer before it spreads to other parts of your body, thus increasing your chance of survival. Your gynecologist will perform a physical breast exam at your annual appointment, and will be the one to write the orders for your mammogram. In between annual screenings, performing monthly breast self-exams also helps determine if something is wrong. The more familiar you are with your breasts, the easier it is to recognize noticeable changes. Any changes or areas of concern should be discussed immediately with your physician. Doctor’s offices and screening facilities are taking all precautions to keep you safe while continuing to provide you with the care you need. Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women. It is estimated that one in eight women will be diagnosed this year. The good news is that screenings can help with early diagnosis and increase the rate of survival. Discuss the best exams and tests with your doctor, so you will be confident in your screening choices. If breast cancer is caught in the beginning stages, and before it spreads beyond the breast, the five-year survival rate is 99%. Schedule your appointment today.

Cherokee Women's Health Specialists PC has seven physicians with offices in Canton and Woodstock. 770-720-7733. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

EVERYDAY

A group of friends began a bow-up mailbox campaign in the Eagle Watch community, which spread throughout Towne Lake. The yellow bows are a symbol of Unity, Love and Hope and what we CAN BE with our actions during these divisive times. All proceeds were donated to Everyday Angels for local families in need in time for the hectic holiday season.

Thank You!

Heidi Oldenberg prepares yellow bows. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

The Moon family, from left: Jonah with mom Melissa, 11-year-old Keegan, 4-year-old Linkyn, 13-yearold Addison and dad Casey.

How quickly life can change! On Aug. 20, Hickory Flat resident, Melissa Moon dropped her three children off at school while she and her baby boy, Jonah, 2, visited her parents in Cumming. After breakfast, Jonah suddenly became pale and lethargic. “There wasn’t an ounce of color anywhere on his body and he became limp. I called 911 immediately, and they escorted us to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Scottish Rite Hospital. Blood tests revealed that our sweet baby boy has acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We weren’t going home anytime soon,” said Jonah’s mom. “I immediately called my husband, and he left work to come to the hospital to be with us. Then, I called and texted everyone else I could think of to pray for him as I tried to figure out what to feel and think.” ALL is the most common form of leukemia and can be successfully treated, especially in children. However, advanced testing identified a subtype in Jonah called Philadelphia Chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL) further complicating his treatment options. “This first phase of Jonah’s aggressive treatment began the very next day when a port was inserted and chemo began. It will last for one month in an attempt to kill off the leukemia as quickly as possible. The Philadelphia gene in his leukemia cells makes that a little less

likely, but my God is bigger than this and goes before us! If his body responds well to the first treatment, then Jonah will have two to three years of less intensive chemo, but, if not, then a bone marrow transplant is likely,” Melissa said. Casey, 32, and Melissa, 28, have a blended family of five children; three together. Casey works as a senior refinishing technician at Miracle Method in Marietta, and Melissa is a stay-athome mom. “We have been so incredibly blessed by our community and the people who love us. We are members of Dwelling Place Church in Woodstock and they have wrapped their arms around us and showered us with love and support. My best friend, Sarah, started a GoFundMe to help us with hospital expenses and the daily travels back and forth for treatments. We’ve had folks bring us dinners and gift cards to help out. It’s just been incredible and we are eternally grateful,” Melissa said. Jonah has a long road before him. He will spend the next year, one-third of his short life, in and out of the hospital undergoing grueling treatments. His dad, Casey, must work even harder to provide for his family while Melissa dedicates her time and energy to caring for Jonah and their other children. Everyday Angels would like to provide relief and encouragement to this young sweet family.

Being a Part of Family Traditions BY TYLER KERLEY

My wife and I recently celebrated our first anniversary. For our first Christmas as a married couple, she gave me an ornament for our tree: a smiling priest standing behind a pulpit, arms raised, collar on, with a Bible open before him. Jane gave me this gift as a way of remembering the past year, how I was ordained a priest and started my first formal church position. My wife did not invent this tradition. Her parents, when they first married, began collecting one ornament per year. The ornament was meant to symbolize a significant event from that year. When they had children, each child received a yearly ornament. After our wedding, as a way of inviting me into this family tradition, my mother-in-law bequeathed me a box of Jane’s annual Christmas ornaments. The Bible also invites us into a family with a living tradition. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus tells Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Jesus institutes the church, and he gives Peter authority as one of its pastors. It is easy for me, as a pastor, to think of the church as a man-made institution like a business. I think, “If only we had a trendy website, the right music, a robust Sunday school curriculum, built more community, held more service projects,

and developed our children’s and women’s ministry, then we would grow.” Unlike a man-made institution or business, the church is God-ordained. In suburban America, it is a sad reality that many people are more interested in seeking a church that provides the best services, rather than pursuing biblical maturity, and genuine fellowship with God and His people. The Bible calls the church a “family” (1 Timothy 3:14-16) and a “spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:4-5). Many theologians have said, “He cannot have God as his Father who does not have the church as his mother.” Like my wife’s family, the church possesses a living tradition. It has been threatened by countless persecutions, heresies, and plagues, but it has produced some of the most beautiful architecture, art, and literature. It has built hospitals, schools, and orphanages in the most impoverished countries. It has taken the gospel of Jesus to the most remote parts of the world. It is a great privilege to be a member of a family with a living tradition. Tyler oversees the youth and young adult ministries at Resurrection Anglican Church near downtown Woodstock. He enjoys F3 workouts, tennis, connecting over coffee and reading.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Rob’s Rescues This dog and cat are both at Cobb County Animal Services. The dog’s name is Peppy. He is a Welsh Corgi, 7 years old and is the perfect dog. He is a good size, a cool color and walks really well on a leash. He was a stray. He will love everybody and will just be a great dog to have around. This cat’s name is Mel. She is 3 years old and likes to be held. She is a large cat. She doesn’t need a lot from you, just some attention. She will be an easy cat to have.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center www.georgiaseaturtlecenter.org

This is Part 1 of my interview with Michelle Kaylor, who is the rehabilitation manager at Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Part 2 will be in the November publication.

Who brings injured turtles to you?

The public sometimes brings in injured terrapins and turtles. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources also sends animals to us as well as the Florida Department of Fish and Wildlife.

What is a story you love to tell about your job?

Rob and Michelle Kaylor of Georgia Sea Turtle Center

What do you do at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center? I oversee the hospital and rehabilitation pavilion. I also oversee the staff, including the veterinary students and Americorp members working in rehab.

What did you study for this job?

I have a general biology background. I worked previously in husbandry at the Tennessee Aquarium.

What made you want to start helping turtles?

I have always wanted to help turtles and wildlife. This is my dream job.

Some time back, we received a phone call from a family member of a child dying of cancer. The child, Silas, had a passion for turtles and had done a lot of advocacy about turtles and fundraising for them from his hospital bed. We typically don’t do this, but we named a turtle after Silas, and got him into the center so he could meet the turtle we would name after him. When Silas the Loggerhead turtle was going to be released back into the ocean, Silas came out and helped with the release. He lost his battle with cancer, but he impacted us profoundly.

What is the best part about rehabbing turtles?

Seeing them go back to the wild after we have rehabbed them through injury or disease. Turtles’ healing capacities amaze me every day. Releasing them back into the ocean is a very cool experience.

What can the community do to help turtles?

It really can be just making small changes, like using reusable bags at the grocery store and not using one-use plastic products.

How many turtles come into the center?

We have been open for 12 years and have seen about 1,500 turtles – 26 different species. But we don’t just rehabilitate sea turtles. We have a lot of native Georgia turtles dropped in too, as well as raptors and shore birds. We don’t rehab mammals and song-birds. 46

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

What is cyberbullying?

It is when a child is threatened, humiliated or harassed by another person through technology. This form of bullying can happen by text, instant message, email or video-conference FaceTime calls, or social media.

What should you do as a parent?

Talk with your children to ensure they understand it never is OK to be bullied or to bully others — whether in person or online. Encourage them to report it to their school — they can tell a teacher, a counselor, an administrator or a school police officer. It also is important to encourage our children to report when they see someone else being bullied or cyberbullied. Reports of bullying, or any other safety concerns, not only can be made by talking to a teacher or staff member, they can be reported using our SafeSchools Alert system, which also allows you to make an anonymous report.

What other advice should you give to your children about cyberbullying?

Stop the Bullies!

Don’t assume your student is safe from bullying while learning from home. BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

This school year, our students are learning in the classroom as well as online from home. While students inside school buildings may come to mind first when you think of school safety, our school district is concerned about the safety of all our students. With the increased use of technology by students, especially among our digital learners studying at home, there is increased potential for cyberbullying. October is National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, and bullying is an issue our teachers, counselors and administrators raise awareness about year-round. Here are a few things you should know about cyberbullying, and how to help your child. 48

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Do not respond to the bullying texts, emails, FaceTime calls or posts. Take screenshots of all evidence of cyberbullying Never send any nude photos of yourself to anyone, or forward any nude photos of others — this can lead to your arrest and registration as a sex offender. Tell your parents or another trusted adult, like a teacher or counselor, about any cyberbullying you experience, or that you witness happening to others. Cyberbullying is just as serious as bullying in person, and can lead to the bully being banned from social media platforms, disciplined at school and/or arrested on criminal charges.

How does SafeSchools work?

Through SafeSchools Alert, you can submit safety concerns to Cherokee County School District five ways. • Call 470-315-9171. • Text 470-315-9171. • Email: 1695@alert1.us. • Message online at https://cherokee-ga.safeschoolsalert.com. • Through the mobile app. Download the SafeSchools Alert app for free from the iPhone App Store and Google Play for Android phones. The app icon is a life preserver. The first time you open the app after downloading, you’ll need to enter 1695 for the ID and confirm your district is the Cherokee County School District. SafeSchools Alert is monitored closely, but it does not replace the need to call 911 in an emergency. #SafeCherokee

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

School News Woodstock Middle Earns $1,000 Grant

Woodstock Middle School has earned the Walmart Community Grant of $,1000 to fund the Take and Makerspace project envisioned by Library Media Specialist Wendy Cope. Cope said the project will connect digital learning and in-person learners through makerspace activities at home. Students will receive a care package containing assorted supplies with a specific challenge that they must use all the materials to satisfy. Students will have a few days to complete their creation, with the option to participate in a live Microsoft Teams video-conferencing meeting, which takes the place of the school’s afterschool Maker Monday Club, so students can share their process and ideas. Once they've completed the challenge, students will use the Flipgrid computer program to explain their design-thinking process, the challenges they faced, and to comment on each other's work.

Wendy Cope.

Saanvi Lamba chose distance learning for the first part of the school year.

Learning Style is a Personal Decision BY SAANVI LAMBA

Deciding between digital or in-person schooling was the challenge I had this school year. It was a tough decision because I love to play with my friends and interact in person. As a family, we decided to do first quarter digitally, as we wanted to stay away from crowds. I love that my school gave me the choice. Even though digital learning is challenging, I have learned many new things. I can now do all my digital learning without much help from my parents. Learning at home has made me more structured and organized. I enjoy the flexible schedule. Our digital learning classroom is made of students from multiple schools, so I get a chance to make new friends. I think there are pros and cons for digital and in- person learning. I spoke to some of my friends and asked them to share their experiences. My friends Manasa, Allie, Kaelie and Parker are doing in-person learning. Manasa, Allie and Kaelie wanted to be around their teachers and classmates. Parker is doing in-person learning because he loves riding the bus, playing with his friends and enjoying school lunch with classmates. Allie says one thing she doesn’t like about in-person schooling is PE with a mask. Both Kaelie and Parker said they did not like that they have to wear a mask all

day. If given a choice again, Manasa, Allie and Parker will still prefer in-person schooling, while Kaelie thinks she might choose digital so she doesn't have to wear a mask. Allie takes dance and cheers for River Ridge. Kaelie enjoys soccer, and Parker loves his baseball and gymnastic activities outside school. My friends Ella and Jaye are doing digital learning. Ella finds digital learning very cool. Jaye thinks in-person is too much of a risk. Both miss the physical interaction with teachers and classmates. Ella is not sure if she will continue to do digital or in person. Jaye says she will continue doing digital if the virus is around. Ella enjoys outside play dates, and Jaye thinks with digital learning, she spends much more quality time with her family. It is definitely a challenging year! I want to thank every teacher and staff member, as they are making adjustments to make it a better learning environment for students. Our teachers keep telling us, “We are in this together.” We have a saying at Little River Elementary, “Together we SOAR!” Saanvi is a Girl Scout and a student at Little River Elementary. She enjoys reading, writing, singing, dancing, swimming, taekwondo and playing violin.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Around & About

We've done our best to keep the calendar be sure to check each website for the most

2-4

23 Golf Event Homeless Veteran Charity

OCTOBER

Kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month by joining Footsteps for the Cure, a local three day/60-mile walk. No fundraising, just fun. Walk for one, two or all three days, or even just a few miles. Walk ends Sunday afternoon at Reformation Brewery. For details, email footstepsforthecure@gmail.com, or visit https://foot-steps.wixsite.com/footstepsforthecure.

Sixth annual

will take place at Lake Arrowhead Highlands Golf Course in Waleska. Sponsored by the Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program (CCHVP). 100% of proceeds support CCHVP programs in Cherokee County. To register, contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail.com or 678983-7590, or Mike Satterly at CCHVP2@gmail.com or 770-878-2346.

Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center is hosting "Beyond the Yellow Brick Road, a Tribute to Elton John" on the center’s outdoor field. The event is free, reservations are required to reserve pods to ensure proper social distancing. https://ci.ovationtix.com/35154.

U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will 24-25 headline the 2020 Wings Over North

Touch a Truck is set for 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Cherokee 3 Veterans Park. No charge. Sponsored by Cherokee

Recreation and Parks Agency. Kids will enjoy face painting, food trucks and bounce houses. For details, contact bmbarcomb@ cherokeega.com or call 770-924-7768.

Rooster Golf Classic, hosted by the Fellowship 13 ofTheChristian Athletes, begins with registration at 8 a.m.

at the BridgeMill Athletic Club. The event includes a sports memorabilia auction, dinner and awards ceremony after the tournament. www.cherokeefca.org.

The Woodstock Public Safety Foundation is hosting its fifth annual Charity Golf Tournament at The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm. Registration is 8-9:15 a.m., tee time at 9:30. Entry fee is $75 individual, $300 foursome. Register at https://wdstk.ga/tournament.

Absolute Queen will perform in the Canton River 17 Rock Concert Series at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown

Industrial Parkway, Canton. Also streaming live on Facebook. www.cantonga.gov.

Gathering of Friends golf tournament to benefit the

American Cancer Society, 7:30 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Open to men and women, $150 per person. Register by Oct. 9; call 770-592-9969, Ext. 1.

Valley Classic, presented by Northside 19 Goshen Hospital Cherokee, is set for the Cherokee Town and

Country Club. Proceeds benefit the Goshen Valley Foundation. $500 per golfer, $250 hole sign. Register at https://e.givesmart. com/events/hqp.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Georgia Drive-in Air Show at Russell Regional Airport in Rome. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit www.wingsovernorthgeorgia.com.

25-31 Your Knees 5K Collins Dixon Bend The ninth annual

will take a virtual format this year. Money raised goes to support awareness of childhood brain cancer and families facing that battle. More details on Facebook at Bend Your Knees for Collins.

Zombie Fest 5K Walk, Run, 30 Georgia Creep or Crawl will be held virtually and live

at Etowah River Park. Registration required; no walk-ups. For more details and to register, go to www.GeorgiaZombieFest.com. or call Cherokee FOCUS at 770-345-5483.

31 Run 5K”

Reinhardt University’s sixth annual “Born to will take place, rain or shine, in Canton’s Cannon Park. The event raises money for Cherokee Scholars, which provides scholarships for Cherokee County students. For details, visit www.active.com.

The Great Pumpkin Fest, hosted by Cherokee Recreation & Park Agency, takes place 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Cherokee Veterans Park, and will feature a DJ, craft vendors, lots of food, and a hayride. Bring your own pumpkin to launch from a trebuchet and wear your costumes. For more information, email bmbarcomb@ cherokeega.com or call 770-924-7768.

Halloween Trail of ... Tricks & Treats is sponsored by the Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department. Please visit www.WoodstockParksandRec.com for event updates and additional safety requirements.

updated, but please current info. NOVEMBER

The annual Sheriff Frank Reynolds’ Golf Invitational at Hawks Ridge Golf Club benefits Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, the Children’s Haven and the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. Check www.frankreynoldscharities.com for updates.

the Season to Be Green recycling and paper 7 ‘T‘is shredding event will be held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary School. www.WoodstockParksandRec.com for

7-8

The Etowah Wing and Rock Festival is set for noon-7 p.m. Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday, at Etowah River Park. Featuring wings from more than 20 restaurants. Voted one of the Top 10 food festivals in the Southeast by Festival Rooster. www.wingandrockfest.com.

This year’s charity golf tournament at the Golf Club at Bradshaw Farms will benefit the Goshen Valley Foundation. Price per golfer is $100. To register, call 770-592-222 or visit www.bradshawfarmgc.com.

THE LANTERN SERIES Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Elm Street Event Green www.elmstreetarts.org

Oct. 17: Sammy Rae & The Friends

2021: March 27, Time for Three; April 17, VoicePlay; April 24, Little Texas; May 8, Crystal Bowersox.

ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS VILLAGE Oct. 4

www.elmstreetarts.org

Art on the Green, 1-6 p.m., featuring North Georgia artists offering paintings, mixed media, photography, handcrafted jewelry, eccentric gifts and more.

Oct. 10

A Cabaret on the Green at 7:30 p.m. Featuring the cast of Elm Street's future production of “Dogfight The Musical,” enjoy an evening of musical theater and more under the stars. Recommended ages 13+ (language, content).

Oct. 23-25

“Comedy of Errors” on the Elm Street Event Green at 7 p.m. Shakespeare’s zaniest comedy, in which two sets of twins separated at birth find themselves in the same city on the same day, leads to a string of mistaken identities, over-the-top slapstick, and false accusations - all set in New Orleans during Halloween.

CANNED MEATS PASTA SAUCE · BEANS CORN · GREEN BEANS CONDENSED SOUP CHUNKY SOUP · CHILI CANNED PASTA · MAC & CHEESE · BEEF STEW Our urgent food supply is disappearing quickly! Can you donate today?

MARIETTA · 1280 Field Pkwy CANTON · 111 Brown Ind. Pkwy

www.mustministries.org AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Woodstock Area Homes Sold in August List Price Address $275,000 $280,000 $280,000 $284,900 $280,000 $289,900 $289,900 $300,000 $295,000 $299,000 $299,900 $310,000 $300,000 $334,900 $355,000 $340,000 $342,900 $340,000 $339,900 $345,000 $349,900 $360,000 $364,900 $369,900 $365,000 $364,900 $365,000 $367,000 $369,900 $375,000 $325,000 $408,600 $394,900 $407,000 $409,800 $419,000 $415,000 $419,900 $435,000 $439,900 $469,900 $479,500 $485,000 $499,900 $499,900 $489,000 $499,900 $538,300 $515,000 $522,000 $545,000 $588,000 $649,900 $699,000

530 Drifton Way 541 Watercress Drive 521 Drifton Way 523 Carrington Court 527 Mullein Trace 119 Stoney Creek Parkway 537 Drifton Way 4994 Gunners Run NE 104 Wood Hollow Drive 1080 River Plantation Drive 5303 Shotwell Court 306 Lakeside Lane 332 Justin Drive 5100 Southland Drive 5140 Shotwell Street 714 Ivory Trail 304 Montgomery Way 554 Augusta Drive 249 Mountain View Drive 716 Parkside Drive 114 Stone Manor Court 137 Stoney Creek Parkway 209 Highlands Drive 510 Lost Creek Drive 432 Spring View Drive 119 Meridian Drive 128 Brendylynn Trace 805 Lazarus Drive 528 Augusta Drive 112 Susobell Place 103 Parks Circle 521 Margaret Lane 287 Edinburgh Lane 456 Spring View Drive 196 Highlands Drive 308 Westfield Bend 252 Walnut Ridge Road 130 Johnston Farm Lane 1082 Bradshaw Estates Drive 2013 Woodside Park Drive 2402 Olivia Run 312 Brookdale Road 107 Three Branches Drive 2702 Granite Walk 2503 HARDPAN Way 317 Heritage Overlook 205 Foxtail Road 1084 Meadow Brook Drive 337 Spotted Ridge Circle 631 Oakbourne Way 149 Foxtail Road 1015 Meadow Brook Drive 624 Oakbourne Way 3016 Bradshaw Club Drive

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Subdivision Park at Kingsgate Woodlands The Park at Kingsgate Carrington Farm Woodlands Stoney Creek Park At Kingsgate Gunners Pond Woodhaven Court River Plantation Southlands Woodstock Village Ansley Forest Southlands Southlands Wellington Manor Cornerstone Estates Bradshaw Estates Walnut Creek Arbor View Cornerstone Manor Stoney Creek Arbor View Stoney Creek Woodview Enclave Meridian At Ridgewalk Woodlands Woodlands Bradshaw Estates Woodlands Dobbs Estates Villas at Mountain View Wynchase Woodview Enclave Arbor View Woodhaven Court Oakhaven Woodstock KNoll Bradshaw Estates Bradshaw Farm Oakhurst Woodview Enclave Three Branches Oakhurst Oakhurst Olde Heritage Longleaf Woodstock Meadow Brook Woodstock Knoll Woodstock Knoll Longleaf Woodstock Meadow Brook Overlook At Woodstock Knoll Bradshaw Farms

Beds Full Baths Yr Built Sales Price Days On Market 3 3 3 4 3 4 3 3 2 4 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 4 4 4 5 4 3 4 4 4 4 6 4 5 5 3 5 7 5 4 4 3 6 5 5 3 5 5 7

2 2 2 3 2 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 2 3 2 2 2 3 5 3 4 3 2 4 5 4 3 3 3 5 3 4 3 5 4 4

2000 2005 2000 1998 2003 2007 2000 1979 2017 1999 1993 2014 1993 1992 1992 1994 2012 2005 2001 2000 2016 2016 2004 2014 2015 2012 2005 2005 2002 2004 1974 2019 2015 2016 2002 2017 2018 2013 2005 1997 2017 2017 2006 2020 2020 2007 2019 2004 2014 2012 2016 2005 2009 1996

$280,000 $280,000 $284,500 $284,900 $285,000 $289,900 $290,000 $294,000 $295,000 $299,000 $305,000 $308,000 $311,000 $312,500 $335,000 $336,000 $336,500 $338,000 $339,900 $340,000 $345,000 $352,000 $360,000 $360,000 $363,000 $364,900 $365,000 $367,000 $369,900 $375,000 $385,000 $392,200 $394,000 $405,000 $409,800 $410,000 $415,000 $419,000 $432,000 $434,900 $455,000 $479,500 $490,000 $494,900 $495,000 $495,000 $497,400 $515,000 $515,000 $520,500 $540,000 $592,500 $630,000 $690,000

7 0 19 4 6 171 4 27 75 2 5 5 4 15 8 16 117 17 0 36 8 25 36 26 134 10 18 3 0 55 2 418 4 21 37 4 77 46 33 9 15 17 9 384 509 91 271 27 9 115 130 1 173 26

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Advertisers October 2020

ANIMALS/PETS

CREDIT UNION

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

Tidwell Strimban Injury Lawyers 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com

Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA, 833-534-2542 www.gatrialattorney.com

AUTOMOTIVE Hardline Customs 770-675-8115 www.hardlineind.com

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY SALON & SPA A New You Skin & Body Clinic 678-739-0400 www.anewyouclinic.com Clark Salon & Spa 770-479-0052 www.clarksalon.com

Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 30 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 Canton: 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry 470-523-8090 www.toothtownpd.com

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

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-919-9509 www.daycosystems.com

9 38

Elite Landscaping Services 770-881-7750 www.elitelandscape.biz

Foundation Business Enterprises 678-919-1991 www.fbellc.net

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

Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1(675-8651) www.mrjunk1.com

Myst Power Washing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com

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

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

HOME DÃ&#x2030;COR

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

HOME AND GARDEN

INWDSTK 53 inwdstk.org/events

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

DENTAL/ORTHODONTICS Dentistry for Woodstock, Dr. Bruce Fink 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com

Georgia ZombieFest 5K www.georgiazombiefest.com

CORE Community School 770-704-9144 www.thecoreschool.org

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

LGE Community Credit Union 770-424-0600 www.lgeccu.org

EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING

Cover, 28, 29

MOOD Salon 678-653-8444 www.moodsalonwoodstock.com

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

Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com

www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com Pineapple Park 678-494-8494 www.pineapplepark.com

REAL ESTATE& RELATED SERVICES

POLITICAL Charlice Byrd for State House 404-557-2218 www.charlicebyrd.com

Inside front

Ginny Lennox for State House www.GinnyforGa20.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com North Georgia Audiology and Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.yourhearinglink.com

Tender Touch Phlebotomy & CPR Service 9 770-750-5363

7, 25

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The www.thetomlinsonteam.com Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com Premier Group, The â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Keller Williams 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com

19 5

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

SENIOR LIVING/ SENIOR SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS Back cover

RESTAURANTS Susto's Taco Bar Restaurant: 678-400-8131 Catering: 678-400-8160 www.sustostacobar.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING

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Your Pie Woodstock 24 770-827-8875 www.yourpie.com/stores/woodstock

MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 nextstepministries.net

VEHICLE SALES Honda Minibikes 770-617-0244

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | October 2020

Around Woodstock Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500

678-494-0102 www.TPGsells.com REALTY PARTNERS

CALL US today for a CASH OFFER! Looking for a stress-free way to sell your home? vNo Showings vNo Repairs vAgent Representation Visit tpgcashoffers.com to request your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s value and compare if a traditional sale or cash sale meets your needs.

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