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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Contents
Contributors
October 2020
Chloe’s Auto Repair
42 Don Akridge 14 Stacy Brown
On the Cover
43 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists
Wearing masks is one of the many measures being taken by the staff of the Towne Lake automobile service center.
68 Barbara P. Jacoby 38 Harry Johnston
Pages 44 & 45
56 Ann Litrel
Cover photo by Heather Stevens, Joyful Day Photography
34 Jackie Loudin
62 Rob Macmillan 34 Amanda Marie 60 Deidre Parker 20 Gary Parkes
48 Susan Schulz
75 Justin Spainhour-Roth 36 Jaime Stone
46 Elisabeth Stubbs
61 Dr. Mary Swantek 50 Tim Timmons 18 Pacita Wilson
In Every Issue
4 Around Towne
8 Community News
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12 Celebrations
Hooked on Books?
If you love to read, you’re not alone. Learn the advantages of joining a book club, or how to start your own.
28
Pumpkins & Spice
Everything nice, from a 6-year-old pumpkin farmer to delicious - and scary ways to enjoy the season.
72
Pivoting in Parks
Woodstock Parks and Recreation staff members have been working to keep everyone active, in a safe, socially distant kind of way.
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
16 Noteworthy
40 County Commission Highlights
52 Towne Lake Dining Guide 54 Everyday Angels 62 Rob’s Rescues
64 Community Calendar 69 School News
76 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 78 Cherokee Photo Club 80 Churches
82 Clubs & Orgs
84 Recent Home Sales
86 Directory of Advertisers
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Around Towne Letter From the Editor
Well, what do y’all think? Did you notice how sophisticated and fancy 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 wanted it. We liked it so much, we adopted the new look in our Cherokee issues as well. I 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 heard of 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 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 saying. 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 32), decorate a pumpkin (page 28), or just stay home and fill your kitchen with the amazing aroma of pumpkin spice (pages 34-36). 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 22-23) or learning to improve entrepreneurship and local businesses (page 24). Sadly, we discovered that men aren’t as active as women in book clubs, so look on page 26 to 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 are faring, as we hurtle into fall, with cooler temps and warm pumpkin treats. See you around town!
Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting
Life Balance Personal Care Home
205 Brolley Woods Drive, Woodstock 30189 706-224-2125. www.lifebalancepersonalcarehome.com.
What’s New
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.
uBreakiFix has opened at 2360 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 108, in Woodstock. The shop specializes in the repair of smartphones, game consoles, tablets and computers. 770-635-7553. 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. 770693-6985. On Facebook and Instagram. At press time, Lidl had planned a Sept. 30 grand opening at 6421 Bells Ferry Road. The grocery store also offers home essentials, small appliances, home décor and gardening supplies.
Kudos
Jennifer Dunn has joined the Cherokee County Historical
Society as Communications and Marketing Manager. Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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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-veteransmemorial-monument.
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Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com
Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker
Our Mission
Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.
Results With Us
“Working with the TowneLaker magazine has been an excellent experience for our business. Their staff is extremely professional, and the quality of their work is top-tier. We received a substantial amount of new business as a result of being on the front cover of the magazine. I wholeheartedly recommend the TowneLaker's platform as an opportunity for businesses small and large to build your local reputation and to get the attention of new and existing customers! — Tim McWhirter, Canton Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Managing Editor/Social Media Strategist Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Community Board Kurt Johnson, Ann Litrel, Scott Coleman, Bettie Sleeth, Lynne Saunders
Advertise With Us
Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
Get Social With Us!
TowneLakerMagazine @Townelaker townelakermagazine
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www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | October 2020
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,500 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 900 are placed in racks around the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2020. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 25, Issue 6
America’s Community Magazine
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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
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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.
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Local News
A Path to a Brighter Future Cherokee Youth Works (CYW ) has a rolling enrollment for out-of-school youths, ages 16-24, who are interested in getting a GED. The program also is looking for partners to provide internship opportunities. While the concept of workforce development during a pandemic might sound counterintuitive, CYW leaders suggest this is the perfect opportunity to improve skills and attain credentials to secure a better job in the future. CYW, a component of Cherokee FOCUS, provides work readiness and life skills training, employment internships, and GED instruction. For more details, email kathi@cherokeefocus.org or call 770-345-5483.
Elections Office Gets a New Home
The veterans statue as seen last year.
Adopt a Veteran Program Underway The Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program, along with American Legion Auxiliary Unit 45, is kicking off the sixth year of the Adopt a Veteran program. Modifications will be made to adhere to safety guidelines, according to Director Jim Lindenmayer. “Our first focus is on providing for veterans with families who are financially challenged, disabled or homeless, and our second focus is on our elderly veterans,” Lindenmayer said. “It is our goal to make sure that every veteran has an opportunity to have a great Christmas this year.” The popular Breakfast With Santa has been canceled because of health concerns during the pandemic. A candlelight vigil will take place at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 21 at the statue in Cherokee County Veterans Park in Canton. The event commemorates the plight of more than 50,000 veterans who are homeless on any given night in the United States. If you know a veteran or family who needs help, contact Lindenmayer at jlindenmayer80@gmail.com or 678-983-7590, or Betty Lewis, of the American Legion Post 45 Auxiliary, at 770-318-6451. 10
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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 is located in the same building as the Cherokee County Tax Assessor’s Office and behind the Tax Commissioner’s Office, and is open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. There is a 24-hour ballot drop box located near the office entrance. The former location, at 400 E. Main St. in downtown Canton, will be renovated to serve entirely as the elections warehouse and tabulation center. “Our previous location will only be open to the public when vote tabulation is advertised and for those who wish to observe,” said Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration Director Kim Stancil. For more information, call 770-479-0407 or visit https://voter.cherokeega.com.
Oaks at Towne Lake
Schedule Your Tour Today 770.592.2195
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Celebrations!
Anna Catherine Wolfe
Sept. 24 Happy 14th birthday, Anna! We love you! Mom, Mr. Nils, Andrew and Amelia.
Meagan
You are the most amazing person I have ever met! Thank you for everything. I hope you have the best birthday. Love, Lee.
Sawyer Elliott Reese
Turning 2 on Oct. 16. Being two will be even more fun than being one. We love you! Mom, Dad, and Emerson. 12
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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
E-mail to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com November deadline is Oct. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.
Grant Jackson
Oct. 6 Happy 2nd birthday, Grant-man! Love, Mom, Dada and June.
William Rockett Russell
Happy first birthday, with love from your entire family!
Happy Birthday!
For your birthday, I want to give you cuddles and soft kisses under the stars, but most of all I want you to know how happy I am to be your girl.
Congratulations!
Rosalba Guttierez Ramirez of Tijuana, Mexico, and Michael Payne of Woodstock, are engaged. Wedding date to be announced.
Happy Birthday!
Happy birthday to you Mom! Another year we made it together!
Kate Blades
Happy 30th birthday! Love, Adam and Sarah.
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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.
Process Planner Dakota Carruthers, left, is seen with City Planner Niwana Ray and Senior City Planner Katie O’Connor.
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, community-focused 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. 14
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• 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.
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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.
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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. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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. 18
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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
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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. 20
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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.
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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 22
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Heritage of Towne Lake Debbie Nickerson
1.
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.
2.
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
1.
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.”
2.
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. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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?
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.
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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.
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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 26
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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A Pumpkin Parade M
any of us are faced with redefining our social gatherings, an extra challenge during a month when, it seems, everyone comes out of the woodwork for Halloween parties and trick-or-treating. We asked Woodstock resident Debbie Nickerson, who organizes events for her community, to share some ideas for keeping fall a festive time, in a safe way. We hope you get inspiration from the photos of decorated pumpkins from the neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2019 Halloween party! The artistic creator of the second-place winner sliced a white pumpkin horizontally, then put it back together with a few embellishments.
Ideas for Gat
The need for social interaction is basic for people of all ages. You can tweet, post, email and zoom all you want, but nothing beats human contact. Our neighborhood is filled with empty-nesters from all over the country. Free from the carpool, soccer practice, harried life of our younger identities, we have found that we like to play with others! How can we meet this need for social interaction, especially in the wake of a pandemic and keep socially distant? Theodore Roosevelt said, "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." A good start is to walk in your neighborhood, if you have a neighborhood directory, send out an invitation to all residents to walk at a designated time. You will be 28
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Fall Activities Events can change after our magazine goes to press. Please check for the most current information.
Oct. 16-17, 23-24, 30-31
The annual Haunted Horse Hill is open 7-10 p.m. at Mariposa Farms, 75 Red Gate Trail in Canton. It’s a walk through a haunted pasture to a barn filled with frights around every corner. $10 haunted house, $5 kids zone. Proceeds benefit Bethany’s Equine and Aquatic Therapy Services (BEATS), which provides therapy and recreational opportunities for kids and adults with special needs. www. beats-inc.org.
Oct. 30
Zombie Fest 5K Walk, Run, 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. Downtown Canton Fifth Friday, 6-9 p.m. with live music by Anita & the Party Life. Check out the scarecrows in Cannon Park and along North and Main streets. Wear your favorite Halloween costume for a fun family-friendly evening.
Oct. 31
thering Safely
surprised who comes out of their house. Stop and chat, keeping your distance, of course! Autumn is the perfect time for outdoor activities, which adds a level of safety to our get togethers. Block off a cul de sac for a cornhole tournament or a street dance. Hire a food truck to come to the neighborhood, turn on some music and enjoy the night. Scavenger hunts, pumpkin or scarecrowdecorating contests, wine tasting, telling spooky stories by the fire pit or just talking to your neighbors will do wonders for your sense of well-being. Let's not waste this beautiful fall season … carpe diem ... being socially distant naturally. - Debbie Nickerson
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 a 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.
Weekends in October
Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., at Hillcrest
Orchards in Ellijay, with wagon rides, pig races, cow milking, a petting farm, mini golf, museums, jumping pillow and numerous playgrounds. Live entertainment and food. www.hillcrestorchards.net.
Big Springs Farms, open weekends in October, noon-6 p.m Fridays, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Pick a pumpkin, take a hayride, meet the farm animals, including farm favorite Willie the Pig, and enjoy treats from the Snack Shack. www.bigspringsfarms.com.
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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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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. 32
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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.
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.
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice BY JACKIE LOUDIN
While 2020 has proven to be more than a difficult year, and there seems to be little most folks agree on these days, I think − I hope − we all can agree that we love fall. For me, fall came early this year. My calendar said the first day of autumn was Sept. 22, but Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts had other ideas. They both debuted their seasonal menus, overflowing with pumpkin spice goodness, in late August. In fact, with an Aug. 27 release date, this is the earliest Starbucks has ever made available their famous Pumpkin Spice Latte (or PSL as we perennial pumpkin lovers call it). I’ve even been treating myself almost daily to a homemade version by sprinkling a little pumpkin spice into my morning coffee. If you’re not a fan of pumpkin spice, that’s OK. We can still be friends, as long as you don’t mind if I bring my PSL to our coffee talk! And speaking of pumpkin spice goodness, here’s a delicious recipe from our friend Amanda Marie, a wife, mom, Georgia native and blogger. You can find more recipes, and follow along as she and her husband renovate a colonial home in Canton, at www.sincerelymariedesigns.com.
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Amanda Marie's
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
Pumpkin Spice Cake
• 4 large eggs • 1 cup oil • 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tsp. cinnamon • 1/2 tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. baking soda • 1 tsp. baking powder • 2 cups pureed pumpkin
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat the eggs, oil, and sugar together until combined and fluffy. In a separate bowl whisk together the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda and baking powder. Add 1/2 cup at a time into the egg mixture mixing well after each addition. Add in the pumpkin and mix until combined. Pour into a greased bundt pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes and then turn out the cake onto a cooling rack to finish cooling.
Brown Sugar Glaze
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed) • 3 Tbsp. water • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 Tbsp. amber agave nectar • 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional garnish)
Once the cake has cooled bring the brown sugar, water, butter and agave to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Stirring well, boil for one minute over medium-low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until well combined. Pour over the cooled cake and top with roasted, chopped pecans if desired.
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Happy Fall, Y ’all
It’s Time to Bake BY JAIME STONE
Fall officially began with the recent autumn equinox when our days and nights became equal in length, accompanied by cooling temps. In the South, however, we typically recognize the arrival of fall by the presence of two things – football and comfort food. Personally, I enjoy the changing of the leaves and turning my iced coffee back into a pumpkin spice-infused hot mug of joe. It seems like every coffee shop carries pumpkin spice flavoring this time of year, but have you ever considered making it yourself? It will certainly save you money, but, more importantly, tastes far superior and lacks those everpresent preservatives and artificial colors. Pumpkin pie spice is a fall pantry staple and is a great base for all of your fall baking recipes. Bake along with me and experience the fall season through your taste buds! Jaime Stone is a New England native, but feels blessed to call Georgia home since 2015. You can find her in the kitchen or garden with a cup of coffee.
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Apple Cider Coffee Cake Muffins Muff in Batter • ½ cup apple cider • 1 stick unsalted butter • ½ cup packed brown sugar • ¼ cup sugar • 2 eggs • 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons baking powder • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (below) • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 1 teaspoon vanilla
Crumble Topping • ⅓ cup brown sugar • ⅓ cup sugar • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (below) • ½ stick of butter, melted • 1 cup flour
Start by making the crumble topping. Whisk melted butter into both sugars and spice. Add flour, break up the mixture with a fork and place in the fridge to cool. For the muffins, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil on the stovetop, then reduce to a simmer until reduced to ½ cup. Place a wooden spoon over the pot to keep from boiling over. While that’s cooling, beat the stick of butter until creamy and light, then add both sugars and beat for an additional three minutes. Add in the eggs one at a time until incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as you go. In a separate bowl, sift or whisk together all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder and soda, salt and pumpkin pie spice). Add the lemon juice and vanilla to cooled, reduced apple cider. Alternate adding the dry and wet ingredients into the mixing bowl with butter and sugar until everything is incorporated and moistened. Do not overmix. Spray your muffin pan well with cooking spray, or use liners, then scoop the mixture in evenly. Sprinkle the crumble on top of the muffins, pressing it lightly into the batter as you go. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Enjoy the muffin dunked into your pumpkin spice coffee, and don’t forget to share!
Pumpkin Pie Spice • 3 tablespoons cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ginger • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon allspice • ½ teaspoon cloves
Blend together all ingredients in a spice grinder or with a whisk and store in a tightly sealed jar. This blend is delicious in coffee, ice cream, banana bread, baked goods, pumpkin or apple pie, and more!
Pumpkin Spice Syrup
• ¼ cup plain canned pumpkin • 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice (above)
• 1 cup water • 1 cup brown sugar
To make a delicious cup of coffee in your own kitchen, simmer all ingredients in a pot on the stove until it is slightly reduced and will coat the back of a spoon. Allow it to cool before putting in a jar and refrigerating. I love a teaspoon-full of this in my cup of coffee or espresso to replace sweetener. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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.
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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.
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Cherokee County Board of Commissioners • Approved a $1.27 million construction contract for
improvements on Univeter Road at two intersections in the Holly Springs area. Improvements include realignment of New Light Road at Univeter Road, installation of a left-turn lane on Univeter Road, and the installation of a traffic signal at the intersection. Also, Pinecrest Road’s approach to Univeter Road will be realigned to improve sight distance, and a left-turn lane will be installed on Univeter Road.
• Approved the purchase of a new Mini-CALIBER robot for the Special Operations Division of the Cherokee Sheriff ’s Office from ICOR Technology for $59,550. The new robot will replace the outdated 15-year-old model that no longer has technical support. • Approved purchasing 150 ballistic armor systems (vests and helmets) for Cherokee Fire in the amount of $197,476.50 from highest-scoring proposer Municipal Emergency Services. Eleven proposals were received. The expense is being paid for by impact fees. • Approved the purchase of five vehicles, including four Ford Escapes and one Ford F-150, for Fire-ES for $155,456 from Alan Jay Fleet Services. • Approved purchasing 0.69 acres at the corner of Yellow Creek Road and Conns Creek Road as additional property for the replacement Mica Fire Station. The additional land, purchased for $52,603.25, will allow for a community room and voting area for that location.
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Highlights from the Sept. 1 meeting. Details provided by the Cherokee County’s communications office. For the full minutes, visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC.
• Related to Planning and Zoning, the commission heard several cases from both the planning department and the zoning department, including: — Distinctive Events requested a special use permit for a wedding and event venue at 901 Sparks Lane, located off Yellow Creek Road in Ball Ground. The land is zoned agriculture, and is in the Rural Places character area. The planning commission recommended denial of the request, and the applicant asked that the case be postponed until the Oct. 6 meeting, which commissioners approved. — Manor Lake Development requested to rezone 21.54 acres at Foster Road, located between Ga. 140 and Vaughn Road, from R-80 (Estate Residential) to OI (Office Institutional) for an assisted living/memory care facility. The applicant also requested a variance to the Cherokee County Stream Buffer Protection Ordinance to encroach into the undisturbed natural vegetative buffer and the impervious cover setback. The planning commission recommended the approval of both the rezoning and the variance. — Jacklett Construction requested a rezoning of 8.29 acres at 9358 and 9360 Free Home Highway from AG to OI and LI (Light Industrial) for a construction office and shop. The applicant also requested a variance to remove the internal 30-foot buffer between OI and LI districts. The board approved the request, with conditions and concurrent variances.
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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.
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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.
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.
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. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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A Different Approach
Chloe’s is a place where customers are treated like family.
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Sooner or later, everyone finds themselves in a situation where they have to rely on a trusted mechanic to take care of their vehicle. When that time comes, people often start asking friends and neighbors for recommendations, because we live in a world where customer service and experiences are highly valued. If you ask Kimberly who she would recommend for auto repairs, she would say, without a doubt, Chloe’s Auto Repair. “We have been taking all our vehicles to Chloe’s for maintenance and repairs for the last six months. They are extremely knowledgeable, honest and have great prices,” Kimberly said. “In addition, they donated their labor to take care of the maintenance and repairs on a minivan we are giving to a local family that lost their only means of transportation after a job loss. We cannot recommend this business more strongly.” Located at the corner of Bells Ferry Road and Eagle Drive in Woodstock, Chloe’s Auto Repair is a female-owned business where the owners and employees like to take a different approach to automobile repairs.
Owner Deidre Parker (front row, fourth from left) and her staff.
“For us, it’s more about the total customer experience, and not just turning a wrench. We strive to provide an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and at home, and where they don’t have to worry about being somewhere that will take advantage of them,” said owner Deidre Parker, who has worked in the auto repair industry for more than a decade.
Safety First
With continued concerns over the pandemic, technicians at Chloe’s Auto take the health and safety of customers seriously. All employees have daily temperature screenings. When inside a customer’s car, employees wear masks and gloves, and all touch points within the vehicle are sanitized before it is returned to the customer.
Let’s Talk
Creating an open line of communication with customers is a primary goal at Chloe’s. Through the use of digital visual inspections, photos can be sent to a customer’s cellphone to show them what is going on with their vehicle. Customers also are invited into the shop to inspect the work and to see what the technicians are doing. When asked what the company’s future holds, Parker said, “to continue providing outstanding customer service and automotive repairs that surpass the expectations of our customers and set the bar even higher for this industry in the coming years.” From oil changes to engine repairs, the same care and service is extended to each customer, because, ultimately, they will share their experience with someone else.
ChloesAutoRepair
@chloesautorepair
Customer Experiences I’ve been to Chloe’s many times and never a disappointment. Very professional and fair pricing. Great service and child-friendly waiting area. —Larry B. The entire staff is super friendly and very trustworthy. Our costs were broken down and explained clearly. —Gina M. Work (brake pad replacement) was done expeditiously and with a professional demeanor! The cost was a fair price and itemized completely. I would recommend Chloe’s Auto Repair with no hesitation. —Hylos B.
Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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New flooring was voted the second most popular home improvement project in a poll conducted by Enhance Floors and More.
The Results
Where Would You Spend $10K on Home Projects? BY ELISABETH STUBBS
It’s been a really strange year so far. Everything keeps changing, and the only constants are four basic rules: wash your hands a lot, keep a social distance of 6 feet, wear a mask, and, if you’re sick, stay home. Another constant is the changing of the seasons. Fall is here, and, as the days get shorter and the weather cooler, we will spend even more time inside our homes. We recently conducted a short, unscientific poll, with interesting
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results. We asked, “If you were given $10,000 to spend on one category for the interior of your home, what would you spend it on?”
The Choices • • • • • • • • • •
Furniture Painting Flooring Countertops Electronics Bedding, mattresses Bathroom redo Appliances Kitchen reno Windows, window treatments
A bathroom redo was first, with 78 votes. Flooring was next, with 60. Those two categories won by a landslide. Then, painting followed, with 24; kitchen redo, with 19; and furniture, with 18. There also were votes for countertops and appliances, which are part of a kitchen redo. (Note: Keeping a full kitchen and/or bathroom gutting and renovation to a budget of $10,000 is probably not possible in anything other than the smallest of kitchens and baths.) This simple survey revealed that updated flooring is on many to-do lists. But, it’s not going to be as easy as in years past. Many vendors are reporting price increases for a variety of reasons: tariffs on Chinese imports, supply and demand, and manufacturers facing higher raw material, labor and freight costs. Back orders are common, because imported products have been delayed, and many shipping departments are short-staffed, so it takes longer to get products delivered. Most manufacturing plants are not working at full capacity. If new floors are on your to-do list, be aware of current circumstances and remain understanding as you work through your project, knowing that some things may be extremely hard to get right now, and may delay the start or completion of your project.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
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The YWCA building in 1976, before it was transformed to liveSAFE Resources. Among the changes is that apartments were built over the drained pool for transitional housing clients.
liveSAFE Resources
The vision of dedicated women lives on, from 1917 origins as the YWCA. BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
In 1917, the year the United States entered World War I, a small group of women joined resources to begin YWCA of Northwest Georgia. The women sent packages to soldiers overseas during the war, while keeping their focus on making a difference in the community. Over the years, the dedicated woman of the YWCA (Young Women’s
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Christian Association) built a rich history serving our area. The organization is now called liveSAFE Resources. For more than 100 years, the women have been using their collective voice to speak out for equality and justice for those with no voice. The name change was prompted by a laserfocused vision on a community free of domestic violence and sexual assault. The board’s decision to close the YWCA pool, a part of the community since 1962, was difficult but necessary to change the community’s perception of the Y as a gym, day care and community pool. In 1978, with the help of their husbands, fathers, sons, and community partners, the women of liveSAFE built Georgia’s first shelter for battered women. Since, the staff and volunteers have expanded services to assist thousands of men, women, and children by providing sexual assault and abuse counseling, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, temporary housing, job training, child care and more. A $7.2 million capital campaign helped make critical improvements to the building at 48 Henderson St., Marietta, and the emergency shelter (at an undisclosed location) which underwent major renovations completed in 2015.
LiveSAFE’s Resources
Domestic Violence Emergency Shelter. A no cost 40 bed shelter along with experienced social workers who help victims move forward. • Domestic Violence Housing. Moving clients toward independence and self-sufficiency. There are 12 apartments onsite and three houses located within minutes of the administration offices. • Sexual Assault Program. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) provide medical, forensic examinations 24/7 for victims of sexual assault, ages 13 years and older. Free of charge, these services may not require the victim to report the crime. • Elder Abuse Program. Anyone over age 50 who has experienced abuse by a partner, spouse, adult child, grandchild or caretaker has access to advocates who provide case management. • Counseling. Free professional counseling services to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their family members, regardless of whether the event(s) took place recently or in the past (also available in Spanish). • Temporary Protective Orders. The legal advocacy program provides clients with information concerning victims’ right, filing a Temporary Protective Order (TPO) and accompaniment to TPO court proceedings. “LiveSAFE Resources empowered me to make the move, and move out of my abusive situation,” said one survivor. Another said, “They are here in our community. They provide a service that is so needed and their staff genuinely cares.” Physical abuse exists in all communities, regardless of age, socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or nationality. “Violence has escalated because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Tracey Atwater, executive director. “Loss of jobs, funds and schooling at home has made it even harder for victims and children to escape, but the shelter is still completely operational with social distancing guidelines in place.” Atwater beams when she speaks about all the programs liveSAFE offers. “Our vision at liveSAFE is for our communities to be free from domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse,” she said. For more information about liveSAFE programs or to support these important services visit: livesaferesources. org (which has a safe exit button on every page) or call 770-427-2902. For those who need help, call the 24 Hour Hotline: 770-427-3390.
Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. She loves serving at Woodstock City Church. Connect with her at www.susanbrowningschulz.com.
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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
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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.
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Woodstock
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Eye exams available at the independent doctor of optometry at or next to Pearle Vision. Doctors in some states are employed by Pearle Vision. *Receive an eye exam from a licensed Doctor of Optometry and receive a discount equal to your out-of-pocket or insurance co-pay expense on the purchase of a complete pair (frame and lenses). Discount not to exceed $150. May be combined with any vision care or insurance plans/benefits. Not combinable with additional promotional offers. Excludes certain brands including Michael Kors, Costa, and Varilux lenses. May exclude Ray-Ban and Oakley. Valid eyeglass purchase required. Valid eye exam receipt required from 1/1/2020 to present. Valid at Pearle Vision Woodstock. See store for details. Offer ends 11/30/20. ©2020 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved. **Coupon required at time of purchase. Save 40% off a complete pair (frame and lenses) of eyeglasses or prescription sunglasses. Valid prescription required. Cannot be combined with vision care or insurance plans/benefits, any store offer or discount. Excludes certain brands including Michael Kors, Retail Collection, Maui Jim, Costa, and Varilux lenses. May exclude Ray-Ban and Oakley. Not valid on previous purchases, contact lenses, accessories, readers, or non-prescription sunglasses. Discount off tag price. Savings applied to lenses. Valid at Pearle Vision Woodstock. Taxes not included. Void where prohibited. Some restrictions may apply. See store for details. Limit one coupon per customer. No cash value. Offer ends 11/30/20. ©2020 Pearle Vision. All Rights Reserved. E30920.012 TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill
Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 www.cancunmexicangrill.net
Cheeseburger Bobby’s
American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 www.cheeseburgerbobbys.com
China Fun
Chinese 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671 www.chinafunwoodstock.com
Donovan’s Irish Cobbler American Irish 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763 www.donovansirishcobbler.com
El Ranchero
Mexican 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 www.elranchero8.com
Family Tradition
Homestyle Cooking 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885 www.familytradition.net
GAMEDAY Fresh Grill American/Burgers 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754 www.gamedayfresh.com
Izumi Asian Bistro
Thai/Sushi/Chinese 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899 www.iloveizumi.com
JD’s Bar-B-Que
Barbeque 6426 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 160 678-445-7730 www.jdsbbq.com
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Johnny’s Pizza
Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 www.johnnyspizza.com
Kani House
Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 www.kanihouse.com
Keegan's Irish Pub
Irish/Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 770-627-4393 www.keegansirishpub.net
KPOP BBQ and Bar Korean BBQ 1105 Parkside Lane 770-485-3055
La Parrilla
Mexican 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606 www.laparrilla.com
LongHorn
Steakhouse 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494 www.longhornsteakhouse.com
Maple Street Biscuit Co. Southern 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, #160 678-903-2161 www.maplestreetbiscuits.com
Mellow Mushroom
Pizza/Pasta 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331 www.mellowmushroom.com
NaNa Thai Eatery
Thai 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy. Suite 110 770 -485-6008
NY Style Deli & Pizza Pizza/Subs/ Bakery 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004 www.pizzabymansi.com
Panera Bread
Bakery/Soups/Sandwiches 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809 www.panerabread.com
Peking & Tokyo
Chinese/Japanese 200 Parkbrooke Drive, #160 770-591-8858 www.pekingandtokyoga.com
Song’s Garden
Chinese 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #320 770-928-8387 www.songsgarden.com
Tavern at Towne Lake
American 1003 Towne Lake Hills East 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com
The Place
Bar/Grill 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901 www.theplacebargrill.com
Tuscany
Italian 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888 www.mytuscanyrestaurant.com
Volcano Steak & Sushi
Asian 2990 Eagle Drive, #100, 101 678-498-7888 www.volcanowoodstock.com
WOW Pho & Grill
Vietnamese 6242 Bells Ferry Road, #118 678-383-6099 On Facebook at: Wow Pho & Grill
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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
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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.
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Vera's gentle touch doesn't seem to bother the bee.
How To
Pet a
BEE BY ANN LITREL
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Vera and I stand in my butterfly garden. Bees and butterflies flit from flower to flower, avidly sipping nectar. The Joe Pye Weed is in full bloom, tall billows of pink waving in the breeze. Today is the Great Georgia Pollinator Census [Aug. 21-22]. Vera and I wait for the O’Dell family from down the street. Like thousands of other citizen scientists around the state, today we will watch a flower for precisely 15 minutes and count the number of pollinators who visit, submitting our results online to be used for research and conservation efforts. The O’Dells come trooping down the hill – Britten, Stephanie, and their three sons and daughter, ranging in age from 10 to 4. Molly, the youngest, is wide-eyed in a rainbow sherbet striped dress. I hand out tally sheets and pens, and explain the drill. Review the pollinator categories, make a mark for every pollinator. Don’t move aggressively or suddenly, and the bees will not bother you at all. We wait, anticipating - what will we see?!
Splitting into three teams, we start the timer. Britten pairs with his oldest son, Peyton, Stephanie with Jack and Sam. Clinging to Stephanie’s legs is little Molly, impatiently pushing aside the tall flower stems around her. Vera and I begin counting at our flower. A large carpenter bee: Vera makes a mark. A big ant, then another, running down the flower stem. A little green sweat bee! A bright yellow swallowtail, fanning his wings as he drinks. Three huge carpenter bees crowded on one flowerhead. A buckeye butterfly, glowing eyespots on his wings. Finally, a fierce-looking Scoliid wasp, wings shimmering iridescent blue, ignoring us as he sips steadily. Surrounded by insects with stingers, we stand and count unharmed. In 20 years, I’ve gardened for hundreds of hours and have never once been stung. Fifteen minutes - time’s up! We add up the tally marks and gather the sheets to enter the data online later. Vera and I counted 29 pollinators total – butterflies and bees, ants, flies and wasps. The O’Dells get ready to leave. Stephanie has just begun to home school all of them, so I invite them to visit the backyard whenever they want - to consider it their private biology lab. Vera and I remain. I have an idea. “Hey, do you want to pet a bee? I heard you can pet big carpenter bees when they’re feeding - and they don’t even care!” Vera is game. I go first. Carefully, I reach my finger out to a nearby bee and … lightly stroke its fuzzy back. Unconcerned, the bee continues to feed, literally not showing an ounce of alarm. Now it’s Vera’s turn – slowly, she extends her finger – and touches the bee’s fuzzy midsection. She’s done it! Vera and I high five, impressed with our experiment. Another successful backyard adventure.
ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM
Butterfly Garden for Learning and Adventure
Peyton with his tally.
Sharing a Hopeful Message About Nature with Children Children receive many scary messages about nature – either that we are destroying it, or, alternatively, that we are in constant danger from it: bacteria in the dirt, snakes just beyond the lawn, bugs poised to bite or sting. Most children spend little time exploring outside, and are instead shepherded from one over-landscaped outdoor spot to another in adult-organized activities. It is no wonder if they form the idea that nature is found only in outdoor science centers or distant national parks, and not right under our noses. I am hopeful that in sharing this little garden with these children, they leave with a trickle of interest, a picture of how a small backyard can shelter tiny fellow creatures when restored with native plants and flowers.
Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
Ann and Vera counting.
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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. 58
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Brandy, also a science teacher, enjoyed the local BioBlitz.
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Find Full Service Shop for Oil Change BY DEIDRE PARKER
When it’s time to have your vehicle’s oil changed, it’s important to use a full-service repair facility. These shops are able to do more, and should have at least one, (hopefully more) certified master technician/mechanic to inspect your vehicle in ways that typically can’t be done at a quick-lube center. Unless your car is brand-new, you are going to need a trained eye inspecting your vehicle for any possible future concerns/failures. Modern vehicles have a lot of different systems, and today's modern full-service auto repair facility should be equipped to identify future problems quickly and accurately, and communicate them to you before you experience a catastrophic failure. It is impossible to predict failure, or the future, but oftentimes the trained eye can see the beginnings of a problem before it would leave you in a difficult or unsafe situation. A full-service repair facility may take 45 minutes to an hour to complete the oil change and maintenance service on your vehicle. When you look at the process a full-service facility follows, it's easy to understand why.
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Under the hood inspection.
A trained, certified full-service repair technician will check belts, hoses, fluids, filters, wipers, lights, engine mounts, and any other under-the-hood concerns.
Mid-rise inspection.
This is where things such as tires, tread depth and tire wear are examined, brakes are inspected (when the tires are removed or rotated), and suspension components are checked for looseness or unsafe play. Shocks and struts also are inspected. Most people grow accustomed to driving with worn shocks, and don’t realize how much better, and safer, their driving experience could be. As the miles start to rack up on your vehicle, the drivability and responsiveness changes and degrades. A trained technician easily will identify this opportunity for enhancing your quality of driving.
Full-rise inspection.
The remainder of the suspension components will be inspected, such as lower control arms, ball joints, etc., as well as the remaining motor mount(s), transmission mount(s), plus an overall under car/vehicle inspection. If there are any leaks, they would be discovered here. A trained certified fullservice repair technician will have a different approach to your car. They will want to earn your trust for years to come, and will do everything they can to show you how to get the most out of your vehicle. By doing a thorough inspection at every maintenance interval, a full-service technician is able to identify problems when they are still small.
Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.
Tips for Keeping Hearing Aids Clean BY DR. MARY SWANTEK
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.
Five Cleaning Tips
1.
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.
2.
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.
3.
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.
4.
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.
5.
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.
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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. 62
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Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. www.robsrescues.com. On Facebook @robsrescues.
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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
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.
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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.
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TOWNELAKER | 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
ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS VILLAGE Oct. 4
www.elmstreetarts.org
2
Art on the Green, 1-6 p.m., featuring North Georgia artists offering paintings, mixed media, photography, handcrafted jewelry, eccentric gifts and more.
the Season to Be Green recycling and paper 7 ‘T‘is shredding event will be held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Woodstock
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).
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.
Elementary School. Check www.WoodstockParksandRec.com for more details.
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.
10
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.
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The fifth annual Hubble Foundation Golf Tournament is set for Woodmont Golf Club. The event typically raises $10,000 each year. The foundation gives scholarships to children and spouses of fallen tower technicians, and works to make changes in the telecommunications industry. www.hubble foundation.org.
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.
FARMERS MARKETS
Oct. 10
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.
IN WDSTK INFluence
www.inwdstk.org
Meetings are held at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater to allow social distancing. Meets the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues, or services offered that affect the community. RSVP required.
Mastermind
The quarterly learning event provides information and an opportunity for sharing ideas. Meets at The Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main St. RSVP required.
YPOW AM
Young Professionals of Woodstock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays at The Circuit, at One Innovation Way. Reservations required to maintain social distancing. YPOW PM meets at the amphitheater.
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market
8:30 a.m.-noon on Market Street. www.woodstock ga.gov.
Canton Farmers Market
9 a.m.-noon in Brown Park. www.cantonga.gov.
Farmers Market at River Church
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.
The Market at The Mill on Etowah
5:30-8 p.m. Tuesdays, featuring farmers, makers, creators and artists. On Facebook.
FRESH START CHEROKEE @ THE CIRCUIT 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600 www.freshstartcherokee.com www.circuitwoodstock.com/events
1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC)
The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Visit www.1millioncups.com/Cherokee for more details. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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The Roth family.
John and Carolyn Guse.
Mason Embers, left, provided the music, which inspired this Empower Cherokee student, above, to show off his dance moves. 66
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
A Financial Partner
Worth Falling For…
Sarah Samaha with little Abigail.
Concert Lawn on the
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH
Woodstock continued 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.
Rake in the rewards of banking with Credit Union of Georgia! We’re a partner you can trust to provide all the products and services you need.
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The Gondek family enjoyed the tunes from their picnic blanket.
Social icon
Circle Only use blue and/or white. For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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. 68
TOWNELAKER | 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
Class of 2020 Outscores National, State SAT Averages
Cherokee County School District’s Class of 2020 outscored state and national averages on the SAT, according to results recently released by the College Board. The district’s Class of 2020 earned an average total score of 1,100 on the curriculum-based college entrance and placement exam, which exceeds the national public school average by 70 points and the state by 57 points. The SAT, the most commonly recognized measure of achievement for high school students, measures critical reading and mathematics abilities. It includes two 800-point sections: Evidence Based Reading & Writing (ERW) and Mathematics, with a possible total score of 1,600; a third section, a writing exam, is optional. The Cherokee County School District’s Class of 2020 average ERW score is 559, and the Math is 541; 59% of the senior class took the SAT exam. Some students choose to take the ACT, a different college entrance exam, and some students take both. All district high schools topped national and state averages on the exam; their scores are: Cherokee, 1,114 (ERW 568, M 546) - the highest average in CCSD; Creekview, 1,110 (ERW 560, M 549); Etowah, 1,102 (ERW 564, M 539); River Ridge, 1,079 (ERW 553, M 526); Sequoyah, 1,100 (ERW 558, M 542), and Woodstock, 1,097 (ERW 554, M 543).
Averages declined at all three levels from 2019 – CCSD by 15 points, national by 9, and Georgia by 5 – with officials citing the pandemic’s impact on results due to testing cancellations.
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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 Wendy Cope. learning and inperson 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 after-school 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.
Oak Grove Earns Digital Citizenship Certification Oak Grove Elementary School Fine Arts Academy has been honored by Common Sense Education as a Common Sense Certified School for Digital Citizenship. The national nonprofit helps educators in their efforts to teach students how to use technology safely and adopt positive digital skills and habits. Oak Grove earned the certification by teaching students to think critically and responsibly when using technology, including how to combat cyberbullying, avoid plagiarism and understand privacy issues. “We applaud Oak Grove’s faculty and staff for embracing digital citizenship as an important part of their students’ education,” said Liz Kline, Common Sense Education’s vice president of education programs. “They deserve high praise for giving students the foundational skills they need to compete and succeed in the 21stcentury workplace and participate ethically in society at large.” Principal Penny Valle thanked her media specialist Denise Lewis, who also has earned individual certification, for coordinating the school’s successful application and efforts by other teachers to achieve the certification badge.
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(770) 592-5554
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Canton
205 Waleska Rd Suite 1-A
(770) 345-4155
Michael D. Williams, DMD, MS Sunya Sweeney, DMD
Same Day Braces 0% Interest
Se habla Español Smile Doctors of Georgia - Dana E. Fender, D.M.D.
Speech Language Pathologist Named to National Board Cherokee County School District Lead Speech Language Pathologist Dr. Patti Howard has been selected by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association to serve on its Clinical Specialty Certification Board, a prestigious national appointment. “Our special education department has a statewide and national reputation for outstanding services, and that accomplishment can be attributed to the hard work of its dedicated leaders,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “We’re so proud of Dr. Howard for this honor, as it shows how highly she is regarded by her peers for the support she provides her colleagues and our students. We know she will represent CCSD with excellence.” Certification board members are responsible for setting standards for professional clinical certification for speech-language pathologists and audiologists, as well as for certification programs, and recognition programs for support personnel. The board also determines whether to suspend or withdraw clinical certification if initial application or maintenance requirements are not met.
Karen Garland.
Amanda Graves.
Teachers and Support Staff Receive $56,000 in Grants The Cherokee County Educational Foundation, a nonprofit organization formed in 2012 to raise funds for Cherokee County School District (CCSD) teachers, programs and schools, has awarded more than $500,000 in grants to support teaching and learning. The foundation’s Classroom Impact Grants program offers competitive grants for projects costing up to $2,500, with a focus on new ideas for instruction that could be replicated throughout CCSD classrooms. “The Cherokee County Educational Foundation makes teachers’ dream projects a reality, and we’re incredibly grateful for the foundation board, executive director and volunteers and sponsors and donors who make its fundraising successful,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “The bright ideas funded by these grants not only benefit the students in these classrooms and schools, but also our entire school district as these innovations take root and grow.” The foundation also supports CCSD district-wide initiatives, including credit recovery scholarships for high school students, STEM learning and the Teacher of the Year recognition program. These funds are raised through events such as the annual golf classic and celebration of education gala, as well as through direct donations, which can be made online at www. cherokeecountyeducationalfoundation.org.
Local 2020 Classroom Impact Grants winners include: • ACE Academy, Robyn Wilms: Gardening Expansion
• Bascomb Elementary, Danielle Mabeus: Calming Our Classrooms • Carmel Elementary, Nathan Whitehurst: Ukulele Program
• Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy, Karen Garland: Using the Garden as an Integrating Context
• Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy, Kathryn Smerker and Jama McCartney: Redhawk Nation - Creating a Caring Learning Community • E.T. Booth Middle, Daniele Deneka: Go Baby Go!
• E.T. Booth Middle, Amanda Graves: Etowah Zone - Books on Blankets Patti Howard.
• Woodstock Middle, Justin Norton: Bass Clarinet/Tenor Sax for kids
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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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. 72
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Upgrades & Improvements
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
k.
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. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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!
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 TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons
J Christopher’s
Salt Factory Pub
Century House Tavern
J Miller’s Smokehouse
Semper Fi Bar and Grille
American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 www.canyonsfresh.com Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 www.centuryhousetavern.com
Copper Coin Coffee
BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 www.jmillerssmokehouse.com
American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com
MadLife Studios
Freight Kitchen & Tap
Partners II Pizza
Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 www.freightkitchen.com
Gyro Aegean Grill
Greek/Mediterranean 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-485-5236 https://gyroageangrill.com/
Habanero’s Taqueria
Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 www.habanerostaqueria.com
Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 www.icemartinibar.com
Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 www.ippspastaria.com
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Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com
Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 www.partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
Pure Taqueria
Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 www.puretaqueria.com/woodstock
Prime 120
Steakhouse 120 Chambers St. 770-800-8049 www.prime120steakhouse.com
Reel Seafood
Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 www.reel-seafood.com
Rootstock and Vine
Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com
Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 www.saltfactorypub.com/woodstock American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 www.semperfibarandgrille.com
Tea Leaves & Thyme
English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 www.tealeavesandthyme.com
The Daily Draft Tap Room and Bar American 8594 Main St. 770-783-2799 thedailydraft.net
Truck & Tap
Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 www.truckandtap.com
Vingenzo’s
Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 www.vingenzos.com
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!
We want to assure you that Cherokee Theatre Company is still here and we intend to entertain you again as soon as possible.
Can you donate today?
MARIETTA · 1280 Field Pkwy CANTON · 111 Brown Ind. Pkwy FOLLOW US
Because CTC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible.
Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114
www.mustministries.org
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the "Feathers and or Fur" competition.
Monochromatic
1st "Swan Drip" Elfie Early
2nd "Kori Bustard" Chastain Kendrick 78
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
3rd "Cold Feet" Eddie Myers
The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net for more information.
Color Print
1st "Sand and Seal" Ed Calleja
2nd "Seeing Double" Becky Sapp
3rd "Mom" Percy Clapp TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Community of Faith
ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304, cherokee.netadvent.org Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106, www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348, www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691, www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108, www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068
Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723, www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324, www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975, www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956, www.bellsferry.com
Faith Community Office: 345 Parkway 575, Suite 100, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org
Generations Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Suite 206, Canton g.church
First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428, www.fbcw.org
Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018, www.sunnysidecog.org
First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538, www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349, www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415, www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100, www.hbcacworth.org 80
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com
Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096, www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003, www.ctrcec.com
Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575, www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137, www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434, www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630, www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533, www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS
Sar Shalom 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock http://sarshalomgeorgia.org/
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540, www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286, www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812, www.tlcwoodstock.org
ORTHODOX
St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504, www.stelizabethga.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com
Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916, www.ecamarietta.org
Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org
Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722, www.stclementscanton.org
Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
JEWISH
ROMAN CATHOLIC
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255, www.jewishwestcobb.com
Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923, www.lasalettecanton.com
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009, www.saintmichaelcc.org
Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193, www.antiochchurch.life
Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442, www.transfiguration.com
Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com
UNITED METHODIST
Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247, www.ballgroundumc.org
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964, www.branchesofchrist.com
Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755, www.bascombumc.org
BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977, www.bridgepointechurch.org
Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502, www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480, www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030, www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969, www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883, www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920, www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495, www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837, www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644, www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533, www.emersonuu.org
OTHERS
Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766, www.abiding.church Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030, www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628, www.antiochcanton.org
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280, www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733, www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com Engage Church 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock 678-445-8766 The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265, www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560, www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227, www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841, www.freshspringsworship.com
Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170, www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347, http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 ,www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412, www.newcovenantcanton.org New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001, www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652, www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795, www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040, www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737, www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495, www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100, www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795, www.thrivechapel.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100, www.unitynorth.org
Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135, www.fdvida.org
Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366, www.victoryga.com
Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, www.godsrollingthunder.org
Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092, www.woodstockcity.org
His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500, www.hishandschurch.com
Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org
Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton www.lifebiblechurch.com
Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515, www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990, www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Towne Lake Area Clubs & Organizations
CHARITABLE
Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org.
Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen, 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org.
HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.
SUPPORT
AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. 11 a.m. Saturdays at Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road.Woodstock. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com.
Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net.
Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org.
Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.
Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org.
Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.
SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org.
Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.
SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.
Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.
Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home.
Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org.
Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org.
Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.
Male Veteran Support Group
Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS
American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: virtually noon-1:15 p.m. every Wednesday. Meeting details are on their website. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. Downtown Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap Phone: 770-241-0373 www.powercore.net The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com.
VETERANS SERVICE
American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366. Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Cherokee Veterans Community Support Groups for males and females meet on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays of the month at First Baptist Church Woodstock. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org. 678-494-2680. veteransministry@fbcw.net. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.
CIVIC & COUNTY
AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at Canton Police Department 151 Elizabeth St., third floor training room. www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Firestorm Robotics FIRST Robotics Competition Team for High School Students in Etowah, Woodstock and River Ridge. Meets: 4-6 p.m. on Wednesdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Hwy 92 Ste 100 Acworth. 678-247-1972. www.firestormrobotics.org. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179.
Cherokee County Republican Party P.O. Box 1267, Woodstock 678-721-1969. www.cherokeecountygop.com. Contact us to verify meetings, time and locations. Follow us on Facebook and twitter. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES
Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org.
Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com.
Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com.
Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514.
Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org.
Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at The Arbor at Bridgemill, 700 Freedom Blvd, Canton. 770-906-2958.
Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org.
Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Firestorm Robotics Meets Wednesdays and Saturdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Highway 92, Suite 100, Acworth. 678-247-1972. firestormrobotics.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org.
Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.
Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat.
POLITICAL
Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org.
Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com. Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org.
Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Our Covers Get Results! “
We have advertised on the front cover of the TowneLaker four times in the 21 years we have been in business here in Towne Lake. Every time we do, we have a higher number of new patients or reactivations for the month. I think the reason it is so successful is the cover draws attention and, if people are curious, they can read the business story and learn more about them and what makes the business special and stand out among the rest of their industry. The process of advertising the cover is also really easy which is ideal for a business owner. The TowneLaker does all the work! They write the story after an interview with the business, they hire the photographer and offer suggestions and ideas along the way. Super simple!” — Kristin Ribley, Ribley Chiropractic
“
I just wanted to let you know that the magazine has been a great part of our marketing campaign! Especially having Brandon on the cover. Several of the guests have asked him to autograph it and we’ve had a few new folks coming in as well. Thank you so much!”
- Mary Childress, Donovan’s Irish Cobbler
“
We advertised on the front cover of Around Woodstock in July 2020. We were unprepared for the amazing and positive response we received. Our business picked up greatly and we got some amazing new customers from this awesome community. When we do it again, I will be better prepared for our increase in business.
— Lori Kennedy, Alpha & Omega Automotive
“
We received a substantial amount of new business as a result of being on the front cover of the magazine. I wholeheartedly recommend the Around Woodstock’s platform as an opportunity for businesses small and large to build your local reputation and to get the attention of new and existing customers!
“
We are in love with our (cover) article and appreciate the shout out on Facebook too! Advertising with Around Canton has been the easiest and most effective way to communicate directly to my client base and attract new customers. Thank you, Around Canton, for helping me grow my business.”
— Jana Rice, Your CBD Store-Canton
Tim McWhirter, Canton Termite & Pest Control, Inc.
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Contact Patty to inquire about 2021 cover availability. Patty Ponder Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
770-615-3322
We have always had a great return on investment with Around Acworth and decided to test the waters in the other Aroundabout Local Media publications — TowneLaker, Around Woodstock and Around Canton — with continued success.”
— Dr. Heath Trowell Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine
WWW.AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
October 2020
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com
40
Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
9
35
Alpha & Omega Automotive Woodstock: 678-483-5995 Marietta: 770-928-0006 www.alpha-omega-auto.com
69
Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
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Silver Bullet Carwash 678-540-3474 www.silverbulletcarwash.com
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Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
63
BEAUTY SALON & SPA
MOOD Salon 678-653-8444 www.moodsalonwoodstock.com
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5
Olive & Bloom Hair Studio Dawn Futch 678-778-8316 Melissa Kirk 678-294-9459 www.vagaro.com
43
Robyn Smith Salon 678-758-5522
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TOWNELAKER | October 2020
Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
24
Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
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Georgia ZombieFest 5K www.georgiazombiefest.com
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FINANCIAL SERVICES Accounting Connections, LLC O:770-516-5987 C: 770-846-7799 www.accountingconnections.org
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Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.citadelwealthcare.com
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Skye Mendelson CPA 770-369-3532 www.skyemendelson.com
25
FITNESS 13
Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 49 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com
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ToothTown Pediatric Dentistry 470-523-8090 www.toothtownpd.com
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Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING Chattahoochee Technical College 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu
St Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org
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(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com
27
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
CHIROPRACTIC Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
Piano Lessons by Laurel Harrell 404-323-4066
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DENTAL
Chloe's Auto Repair Cover, 44, 45 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
A New You Skin & Body Clinic 678-739-0400 www.anewyouclinic.com
INWDSTK 74 www.inwdstk.org
CREDIT UNION
AUTOMOTIVE
Christian Brothers Automotive 678-841-8764 www.cbac.com/townelake
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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com
Salon Gloss 678-483-8900 www.salongloss.biz
33
R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
27
FUNERAL SERVICES Poole Funeral Home 678-932-2097 www.poolefuneralhome.net
7
HOME DÃ&#x2030;COR Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock
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Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
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Pineapple Park 678-494-8494 www.pineapplepark.com
21
Southern Sky Outlet 678-842-8411 www.southernskyoutlet.com
39
www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Best Friends Flooring 678-814-9426 www.bestfriendsflooring.com Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
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5
CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661
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ckb Kitchen|Bath|More 770-485-0911 www.ckbpros.com
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Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
7
Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com
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Dr. Fix-it 770-974-2390
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Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
Scrappy’s Junk Removal 678-330-9282 www.scrappysjunkremoval.com
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Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
7
LANDSCAPING AND LAWN CARE
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Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
33
Home Efficiency Solutions 678-665-3626 www.homeefficiency.solutions
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Integral Solutions of Georgia 404-330-2375 or 770-885-3498 www.isgpaint.com
5
Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
55
Myst Power Washing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com
25
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
43
Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com
5
Gordon Mosley, Harry Norman Realtors C: 404-667-3221, O: 404-495-8331 www.gordonsellsatl.com
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Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com
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Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
41
Residential Funding Consultants 53 Joshua Dean 470-303-0087 www.residentialfunding consultants/ joshua-dean
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Ursula and Assoc., Keller Williams 678-389-3887 www.townelakeexperts.com
OPTOMETRY Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com Joyful Day Photography www.joyfuldayphoto.com
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
Foundation Business Enterprises 678-919-1991 www.fbellc.net
3
Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
PHOTOGRAPHY 47
Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 27 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Optimal Performance Medicine 9 678-250-0700 www.optimalperformancemedicine.com Plastic Surgery Center of the South 60 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Towne Lake Pediatric Speech Therapy 850-228-8139
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POLITICAL
55
Back Cvr
Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
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RETAILERS Becca B's Children's Boutique and Party Venue 770-861-1592
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SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
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SPECIALTY FOOD The Butcher and A Baker 770-517-2225 www.thebutcherandabaker.com
9
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Charlice Byrd for State House Inside front 404-557-2218 www.charlicebyrd.com
MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
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Ginny Lennox for State House www.GinnyforGa20.com
Next Step Ministries www.nextstepministries.net
77
3
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
VEHICLE SALES 55
Honda Minibikes 770-617-0244
TOWNELAKER | October 2020
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
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TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400
