Local News

River Network Offers Safety Classes

After initial offerings sold out quickly, Georgia River Network (GRN) added introductory kayaking and water safety classes at the end of September, to help train new paddlers who are finding their way to rivers and lakes as an outdoor escape from the pandemic.

Recent increases in paddle sports participation have resulted in more accidents and fatalities. GRN wants to help paddlers enjoy the state’s waterways safely. One of the class offerings, Rescue for Rec Boaters, is the first comprehensive safety and rescue class offered for lake and Class I river paddlers in this region.

“The pandemic spawned an explosion in interest in paddle sports,” said GRN Paddle Georgia Coordinator Joe Cook. “Kayaking, in particular, has really taken off. We want to help folks paddle safely, whether joining our trips or leading their own.”

Founded in 1998, Georgia River Network is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that serves as the voice of Georgia’s rivers, and which works to empower everyone to enjoy, connect with and advocate for economically vital and clean flowing rivers. Visit https://garivers.org/grn-events for upcoming events.

Participants practice how to climb back into their kayaks if they capsize in the middle of a lake.

Volunteers prepare hot dog plates to benefit the Last Stop program.

Fundraiser Provides Assistance to Senior Citizens

Cherokee County Senior Services and the Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) recently teamed up to hold a hot dog luncheon fundraiser to provide emergency assistance to senior citizens in the county. Organizers sold more than 150 hotdog plates, raising $850 for VAC’s Last Stop program.

Last Stop is a financial assistance program that provides emergency assistance when all other means have been exhausted. VAC works in conjunction with Cherokee County Senior Services to create fundraising events and gather support from private donors, local organizations and businesses in Cherokee County to raise funds to help lowincome seniors and senior veterans who are not covered by programs already in place.

“We are thrilled with the turnout for this year’s hot dog fundraiser,” said Cherokee County Senior Services Resource Coordinator and VAC volunteer De Gale. “With the money raised, we will be able to help out several seniors needing assistance.”

To learn more about VAC, and view information on upcoming fundraising events, visit vac-cherokeega.org.

Woodstock Lions Club Celebrates 60 Years of Service

The Woodstock Lions Club celebrates the 60th anniversary of its founding on Oct. 24. Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques issued a proclamation, naming this milestone anniversary date as Woodstock Lions Club Day. The club will hold a reception, 2-4 p.m. Oct. 23, at the Woodstock Library’s Community Room, as a thank you to the citizens of Woodstock for their support over the years. Refreshments will be served, vision screenings will be available during those hours, and guests can donate used eyeglasses in the donation box at the door.

Since its founding in 1961, the Woodstock Lions Club has held community fundraisers to support Lions organizations, and to provide vision screenings, high school scholarships and help for individuals in need of eyeglasses, eye exams and eye surgeries.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lions distributed approximately 6,000 boxes of fresh produce to Woodstock residents through the Farmers to Family Project.

Safe Kids Cherokee County Holds Bike Rodeo

Children attending the recent bike rodeo sponsored by Safe Kids Cherokee County learned about rules of the road and the meaning of different traffic signs.

Bike helmet safety instructors spoke about how to be sure helmets fit properly. Children were encouraged to wear bright colors, use reflectors and lights on their bikes and use hand signals.

To learn more about Safe Kids Cherokee County, led by Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, visit www.safekidscherokeecounty.org.

Instructors demonstrate how to check the fit of bike helmets. The instructor checks the seat height on a bicycle.

Oliver Caldwell. Photo by Michael Caldwell.

Weather with Ollie

Introducing Woodstock to the Area’s Youngest Weather(kid)

Honestly, I actually don’t remember! I think when I was 5 … actually, no. I never wanted my own channel, actually. I’ve always wanted to be a storm chaser. Right now, I’m just doing my channel because it’s the closest thing I was allowed to do. At 6 years old, I still have a long way to 18 when I can storm chase.

What’s your favorite part about being a local weather forecaster?

By getting to stand out in big weather, and seeing all the followers I get is amazing, too!

Were you ever scared of thunder and lightning when you were younger? Do you have any tips for anyone who is scared?

Not really. Only if it’s really, really loud … then, I am scared. I don’t have any tips. Actually, plug their ears when the thunder starts.

How would you describe covering your first tropical storm, Fred, from Woodstock?

Honestly, it was just really stormy. And I loved it!

How does it feel knowing your fans call you one of the most trusted sources for weather reporting in Woodstock?

Really amazing. And good! Honestly, I didn’t know that I was that!

What is your favorite type of weather?

Stormy, especially natural disasters. Tornadoes!

Would you rather live someplace hot or someplace cold?

Hot, definitely. What’s your favorite type of cloud?

Ones with rain in them. Actually, no, a wall cloud!

Can you tell us about your plans for this channel?

I want to grow the following this year. If we get to 300, we might have a surprise. Can you tell other people about my channel?

Oliver Caldwell is 6 years old and crazy about all things weather. In August, his parents “finally” let him have his own social media channel, a parentally managed Instagram account where he shares daily hyperlocal weather forecasts from their home in downtown Woodstock. Each day, Ollie’s followers tune in for the Woodstock weather forecast and a current update outdoors, followed by his signature sign off, “That was the weather. My name is Ollie. Bye.” We enlisted the help of his parents, Michael and Katie, to get to know more about the rising star.

If you’re interested in hyperlocal weather forecasts delivered by a 6-year-old, follow @weatherwithollie on Instagram.

Ollie’s Fans Speak Out

“So glad we have an honorable local weather team.”

“News worth watching.” “This is my new favorite weather channel.” “His refreshing accuracy coupled with his relentless brevity is genius!” “Best weather in town.”

Photo by Keith Barnes.

Sheriff’s JeepFest

Sheriff’s JeepFest, Crawl for the Kids, is a three-day event, filled with Jeep rides, obstacles, trails, mud and more, that takes place in Pickens County each fall. This year, Sheriff Donnie Craig and the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the event’s 10th anniversary, Sept. 2-5. Volunteers, locals, Jeepers from across the country, vendors and Jeep clubs come together to ride and socialize during this family-friendly fundraiser for kids. Charities supported include Georgia Sheriffs’ Youth Homes, the Joy House, Special Olympics for Pickens County, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Jasper Youth Sports Association. For more information, visit www.sheriffsjeepfest.com/cause.

Photo by Justin Mattingly.

Cherokee County Jeepers Speak Out

“My first introduction to the Jeep culture was in 2011 when I took a job at a dealership in Chattanooga. Fast forward 10 years, I’ve been back home and have been able to be involved in the local Jeep world. The Jeep community is about giving back. That’s what Jeepfest symbolizes to me. It’s a nationally known Jeep event, but it’s all for the kids, and we love it.” — John Little, Woodstock

“What I love about Jeepfest is that it’s three days with no TV and no internet, just riding through the beautiful north Georgia mountains, listening to music and enjoying God’s creation. On the night ride this year, I looked up at all the stars in the sky, and I just thought, God is good! JeepFest is about everyone having a good time, helping each other on the trails. It’s just a bunch of Jeepers enjoying time outside, camping, eating and laughing.” — Keith Barnes, Canton

“I really like the way Jeepfest is so welcoming to the whole family. I love taking my teenage kids out on the trails! We need events like this to bring families together for real, quality time with each other.” — Bella Monica Roberson, Canton

“To me, Jeepfest has a lot of things going for it. Like many my age, I grew up in a time where the playground was hundreds of acres around the old homestead. Riding trails in my Jeep is a lot like going back in time, to the trails and dirt roads I spent so much time on as a kid. But, it’s much more than that. I get to spend time with people I consider close friends, doing something I enjoy. When you add in the fact that all the proceeds go to children in the area, it’s a win-win.” — Ronald Massey, Holly Springs

HELLO

GHOST TOURS SCHOOL FESTIVALS

Canton Historic Haunts

Take a trip back in time through downtown Canton, and learn about its history and haunts on a two-hour guided walking tour that begins and ends at the gazebo. The family-friendly tours can be booked through the fall, and are sure to captivate and surprise you. Visit https://cantonhaunts.com for more information.

Acworth Ghost Tours

Stroll down sidewalks in historic Acworth while listening to your tour guides tell stories based on documented sightings, firsthand experiences, research and history. Tours are every Friday and Saturday evening (weather permitting) in the month of October. Visit www.jimmagus.com or call 770-653-0756 for more information.

Ghosts of Marietta

Join the residents that chose to never leave on a guided tour of a past that is deep in tradition, history and quality of life. Tour guides will excite you with tales of departed spirits and mysterious residents as you walk through Marietta’s historic streets, and, if you’re lucky, you will experience them, as well. Visit www.mariettaghosts.com to book a tour, Fridays through Sundays year-round.

Roswell Ghost Tour

Follow experienced paranormal investigators on a 2.5-hour walking tour, operating year-round. Learn about paranormal phenomena experienced by residents, businesses and tour-goers on a hunt for haunts. View the tour schedule at http://roswellghosttour.com.

Dahlonega Walking Tours

Dive into the rich and fascinating history of Dahlonega with the Historic Ghost Tour, a 1.5-mile guided tour with approximately 15 stops. Or, for ages 21 and older, Grapes and Ghosts Wine Tour takes guests on a .6-mile guided tour. Sample local wines while listening to stories about the town’s history, as well as haunted tales from each shop. Check the calendar for tour dates. www.dahlonegawalkingtours.com/facilities. All events are outdoors. Dates and times are subject to change. Oct. 9

Carmel Elementary, 1-4 p.m. 2275 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock. 770-704-1184.

Oct. 15

Avery Elementary, 6-8 p.m. 6391 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton. 770-704-1343.

Ball Ground Elementary STEM Academy,

6-8 p.m. 321 Valley St., Ball Ground. 770-721-5900.

R.M. Moore Elementary STEM Academy,

6-8 p.m. 1375 Puckett Road, Waleska. 770-704-1212. Free Home Elementary, 6-9 p.m. 12525 Cumming Highway, Canton. 770-721-5960.

Oak Grove Elementary STEAM Academy

Movie Night, 6 p.m. 6118 Woodstock Road No. 1727, Acworth. 770-721-8550.

Oct. 16

Liberty Elementary, 6-8 p.m. 10500 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. 770-704-1300.

Oct. 22

Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy

Movie Night, 6 p.m. 3219 Hunt Road, Acworth. 770-721-5800.

Oct. 23

Clayton Elementary, 4-6 p.m. 221 Upper Burris Road, Canton. 770-721-5860

Oct. 29

Holly Springs Elementary STEM Academy,

6-8 p.m. 1965 Hickory Road, Canton. 770-704-1420. Knox Elementary STEM Academy, 6-8 p.m. 151 Riverbend Way No. 1818, Canton. 770-704-1265.

Oct. 23

The Great Pumpkin Fest, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Cherokee Veterans Park, will be fun for all ages, with bounce houses and games, craft vendors, food trucks, face painting, a hayride, helicopter rides and more. Bring your own pumpkin to launch from a trebuchet, and don’t forget to wear your costume and trick or treat with the vendors. Contact bbjohnson@ cherokeega.com for more details. Cherokee Presbyterian Church’s festival is 11 a.m.-3 p.m. with a hayride, bounce house, free food, and highland games for the kids. 1498 Johnson Brady Rd.

Oct. 27

Hiking Scavenger Hunt: Halloween is at Lewis Park in Woodstock, 6:30 p.m. Wear your costumes, and have flashlights ready. Cost is $10 per participant. All ages are welcome; minors must be accompanied by an adult. Registration ends 5 p.m. Oct. 25. Email cafussell@cherokeega.com.

Oct. 29

Canton Fifth Friday, a Halloween costume block party featuring No Sweat, is 6-9 p.m. in downtown Canton. Shops and restaurants will be open late, and there will be food and beverage vendors along Main Street. www.cantonga.gov. HollowSteam and Fall Festival is set for 4-10 p.m. at the Rock Barn in Canton. There will be pumpkin carving, a costume contest, a haunted maze and more. Visit www.wayneevents.com/ event-details/hollowsteam-fall-festival for tickets.

Oct. 30

Halloween Trail of Tricks and Treats will be 4-9 p.m. at Rubes Creek Trail, across from Fire Station 14 in Woodstock. There will be activities for all ages. Bring flashlights and collect treats from vendors along the 1.4-mile trail. If you’re interested in having a jack-o’-lantern displayed along the trail, view the pumpkin carving contest flyer at https://bit. ly/3DhIRcR. BEATS Gallop and Go 5K begins at 8 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Woodstock. Family-friendly costumes are welcome. Participants can register at active.com. Later, families can visit the barn at Mariposa Farms in Canton (75 Red Gate Trail) for the Fall Family Festival, 2-5 p.m. Kids will be able to trick-or-treat with costumed horses and enjoy games, a bounce house, pumpkin painting and face painting. Event sponsors, companies or families can contact bethany@ beats-inc.org for more information.

Oct. 31

Fall FAM Fest will be at Grow Church Woodstock Campus, 2510 E. Cherokee Drive, 11:15 a.m.-3 p.m. Join the 11:15 a.m. worship service, followed by lunch and the festival. Activities include a costume contest, petting zoo, pony rides, inflatables, bingo and ax throwing. https://bit.ly/3sN4RHQ.

Through Nov. 1

Pumpkin Fest includes unlimited access to the corn maze, hay ride, petting zoo, pig races and more at Pettit Creek Farms in Cartersville. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for ages 2-12. https://pettitcreekfarms.com/pumpkin-fest-2. Oct. 9

Fun Family Fall Festival at Sweet Dreams Farm in Ball Ground features hands-on horse experiences and fall activities, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. To get free tickets visit www.sweet-dreams-farm.org. Oct. 9-10

Marietta Cobb Museum of Art presents Chalktoberfest 2021, a chalk and beer festival on Marietta Square. Free and open to the public, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. https://www.chalktoberfest.com. Oct. 9-10, 16-17

The Georgia Apple Festival is back for its 50th year at the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, beginning at 9 a.m. each day. Admission is $5; children 10 and under are free. Visitors can expect more than 300 vendors with handmade items, a parade and an antique car show. www.georgiaapplefestival.org. Oct. 16-17

The Gold Rush Days Festival is held annually in Dahlonega to celebrate the 1828 discovery of gold in the city. More than 200 art and craft exhibitors and vendors will gather around the square and historic district for this two-day festival. https://goldrushdaysfestival.com/gold-rush-days. Weekends in October

Apple Pickin’ Jubilee, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., is at Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay. Pick your own apples, milk a cow (mask required), watch swimming pig races and listen to live bands. Admission is $15. www.hillcrest orchards.net.