11 15 aroundwoodstock web final by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

A difference you can see. Specializing in: Cataracts, Retina, Glaucoma, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Cornea, LASIK and Cosmetic Services Eyewear and contact lenses for all ages

TOTAL EYE CARE

Mark Berman, M.D. Jerry Berland, M.D. Paul Kaufman, M.D. Glaucoma and Pediatric Ophthalmology Retina and Cataract Surgery and Strabismus Vitreous Surgery

Woodstock 149 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 102 Woodstock, GA 30188

770.928.4544

www.thomaseyegroup.com

Lakhvir Singh, O.D. Comprehensive Optometry

Mindabeth Jacobs, O.D. Comprehensive Optometry

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

November 2015 Volume 3, Issue 1

14 Turkey Day Dishes

Tasty recipes to try for your Thanksgiving meal.

16 Supporting Our Vets

Volunteers work to make sure our heroes get the help they need.

18 Men’s Health

Woodstock mayor encourages men to get regular checkups.

20 Get Plugged In

A list of nonprofits, agencies that can use help for the holidays.

24 Fire Station #14

Open house a success with local families, children.

33 Creative Mothers

Women find a balance in being artists and moms.

43 Becoming an Actor

Community theater offers great experience for the big screen.

52 Special Olympics Album

Photos show the joy of competition, love and support on the field.

54 Homecoming Time!

River Ridge, Woodstock students take the field in their finery.

24 Contributing Writers Chantel Adams 48 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 8 Christopher Brazelton 39 Michael Caldwell 28 Brett Campbell 47 Rebecca Devane 33 Claire Frost 33 Ivan Garcia 34 Delia Halverson 45 Dr. Scott Harden 50 Donnie Henriques 18 Dr. Jan Henriques 49 Dan Hultquist 34

In Every Issue Sean Kaufman

Around Woodstock

Leslie Kerns

Venéssa Lanier

Community News

Ann Litrel

Dr. Mike Litrel

Jackie Loudin

Birthdays

Community Calendar

Restaurant Guide

Rob Macmillan

Everyday Angels

Matt Neal

Premier Group

Faith

Susan Schulz

School News

Jessica Leigh Smith

Recent Home Sales

Jodi Tiberio

Greenprints Trail Map

Lynne Watts

Ad Index

www.AroundWoodstockMagazine.com

36 & 37 On the Cover

Pineapple Park owner Pacita Wilson

Photo: © Joel Taylor - Taylored Imagery 2015 2

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

ADVERTISING questions and comments Join the Around Woodstock magazine fan page www.facebook.com/AroundWoodstockMagazine Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 www.twitter.com/AroundWoodstock Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com

PERIMETER NORTH FAMILY MEDICINE Offering a full range of adult and pediatric services, our board-certified physicians proudly offer the highest quality care to keep you and your family happy and healthy. We accept most insurance plans and offer same-day appointments and extended hours at many of our locations.

Our services include: • Physical examinations and wellness care for men, women and children • General and chronic care for geriatric patients • Immunizations • Acute illness treatment for colds, fevers, flu and more • Comprehensive women’s health services

Call (770) 395-1130 for an appointment 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 210 Woodstock, GA 30189

pnfm.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

AROUND WOODSTOCK

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Woodstock

What’s Open Salon W Parkside is open in the location of the former Kara Christian salon at 105 East Main St., Suite 130, Woodstock 30188. Salon hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. 678-445-2658. Look for Salon W Parkside on Facebook. Truck & Tap is now open at 8640 Main St., Woodstock, featuring a rotating selection of food trucks and craft beer and wine. For the food truck schedule, visit http://truckandtap. com. Find them on Facebook under Truck & Tap.

What’s New Downtown Woodstock officials have announced new trolley stops for the holiday season. Stops include Reformation Brewery, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, Woodstock Public Library, Woodstock Community Church and several locations along Mill, Main and Chambers streets. See the map on page 64. Bascomb Mission Thrift Store, 9550 Main St., Suite 170, Woodstock, has opened. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ThursdaySaturday. The store is a ministry of Bascomb United Methodist Church. www.BascombMissionThrift.org. Windsor House Assisted Living has opened at 3333 East Cherokee Dr., Canton. The family owned business also offers memory care in addition to daily housekeeping, linen/laundry service, wellness checks, medication monitoring, 24-hour assistance, salon services and regular activities. 678-880-9856. www.windsorhouseassistedliving.com.

What’s Changed Towne Lake Driving School is under new ownership. Towne Lake residents Jodi and Marc Giuliano recently acquired the driver education business, located in the Southe Pointe at Towne Lake shopping center next to Johnny’s Pizza. Office hours are 1:30 - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. Stop by to see Gina or Kerin for information or visit them online at www. townelakedrivingschool.com for upcoming class schedules or registration. 678-494-2200.

What’s Coming Planet Fitness will be opening in the former Office Depot location at 299 Molly Lane in Woodstock. 678-903-8849. www.planetfitness.com. OMO Fish House should be open by mid-November at 12900 Highway 92, in the former Zaxby’s location. OMO will have a smokehouse where the owners smoke fresh fish, and also feature a retail side where shoppers can purchase smoked or fresh fish, and a café that will be open for breakfast and lunch. 4

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Burger King is replacing Blimpie’s inside the Walmart at Trickum Road and Highway 92. Main Street Woodstock has organized the fourth annual Downtown Restaurant Week for Nov. 1-8, an event designed to be “a celebration of our unique collection of restaurants and food stores,” according to Mitzi Saxon, downtown program manager. Participating businesses will offer special menus and discounts. For details on the specials, visit www.woodstockrestaurantweek. com or contact Mitzi at msaxon@woodstockga.gov.

What’s Closed We are sad to report that Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Grille, located at 9425 Highway 92 in Woodstock, has closed. On a recent Facebook post, the owners hinted that something new will take place in the future, and encouraged fans to check Facebook for updates. The Noonday Creek Trail at Reeves Street in downtown Woodstock will be closed for about six months, until nearby construction is completed. A detour is marked with signage directing trail users to existing sidewalks along Reeves and Maple streets in the Woodstock West neighborhood. Contact Woodstock Parks and Recreation at 770-517-6788 with any questions about the temporary trail closure.

Cherokee County Ribbon Cuttings Chattahoochee Technical College Woodstock campus, 8371 Main St., Woodstock 30188. Peachtree Orthopaedic Clinic, 120 Stone Bridge Parkway, Suite 440, Woodstock 30189. www.pocatlanta.com. Nationwide Insurance – The McClain Agency, 111 Mountain Brook Drive, Suite 208, Canton 30115. www.nationwide.com/ mattmcclain. Outpost Training Co., 2472 Marietta Highway, Canton 30114 www.outposttraining.com. AFLAC – Teena Hardwick, P.O. Box 1381, Woodstock 30188 678-267-4901.

Don’t Forget to Vote on Tuesday, Nov. 3 Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Woodstock. She has lived in Cherokee County for 28 years. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.

G O

T H E

D I S TA N C E

W I T H

BMW and MINI Specialists 204 Bell Place, Woodstock, GA 30188 770.310.2381 bavarianrepair.com service@bavarianrepair.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

COMMUNITY BOARD The Around Woodstock Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board assists us in many ways that include serving as contributing writers, judging our annual Trailblazer award and providing valuable feedback. Kris McKeeth is team leader and visionary for The Premier Group Keller Williams Realty on Main Street in Woodstock, and has more than 25 years experience in real estate. She’s active in many community efforts that include her position on the Business Board of downtown Woodstock and as president of Etowah Foundation. Photographer Darleen Prem specializes in natural light portrait photography and enjoys dog, pet and family photography. She spends much of her time photographing local events for the city of Woodstock and is the official “unofficial” photographer for Woodstock’s fire and police departments. Darleen’s son serves overseas as an Army Military Police Officer. Ross Wiseman started Momentum Church in 2005 and still serves as head pastor. He draws from his experiences in more than 21 years of ministry and 19 years of marriage to challenge, inspire and instruct people in what it takes for better living, loving and laughter.

Renee Gable, a sales and marketing executive for Window Expert Tinting, volunteers for many committees that work to improve downtown Woodstock. She is an avid cyclist who aligned herself with Greenprints Alliance because of her desire to help create safe and natural trail riding experiences. Beth Hermes is a graduate of Auburn University’s School of Journalism and a professional writer for more than 26 years. Her writing has appeared in magazines, newspapers and online publications, and she has created marketing campaigns for corporations and nonprofits.

Woodstock AROUND

Publisher AroundAbout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324 Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Managing Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com

Around Woodstock, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in Woodstock and surrounding area by providing residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,500 free copies. Approximately 15,400 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,100 are placed in racks around the community. See page 72 for a distribution map. Around Woodstock also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Woodstock welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 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. Around Woodstock is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2015.

Suzanne Litrel is a young adult historical fiction author and doctoral student in GSU’s graduate history program. Suzanne resides with her family in downtown Woodstock, which she is very happy to call home.

Around Woodstock PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Dr., Ste. 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 Website: www.AroundWoodstockMagazine.com Powered by

Volume 3, Issue 1 6

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

North Cobb Christian School

Together… Cultivating Hearts.

Challenging Minds. Impacting Culture.

Christ-Centered Curriculum Rigorous Academics Award Winning Fine Arts Program Championship Athletics Small Class Sizes in All Grades

770.975.0252

4500 Eagle Drive • Kennesaw, GA

PK3-12th grade

www.ncchristian.org NCCS admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

NCCS Woodstock_fall15 ad.indd 1

1ST OPEN HOUSE

2016 - 2017 •••••

Saturday NOVEMBER 14TH 9:30am

10/5/15 12:03 PM

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Mission Possible? No Daily Commute BY THE CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

It’s 7 a.m. and you’re getting on the road for another commute to work. Coffee in the cup holder, radio on and the same thought runs through your head, “I wish I worked closer to home.” You are not alone. In fact, 78 percent of Cherokee County residents leave the county to work every day. Why? Because the jobs they are looking for are not available in Cherokee — yet. The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) is working to change that. During COED’s 2015 strategic planning process called Opportunity Cherokee, nearly 2,400 residents from the community were engaged to provide insight on developing an economic development strategy that will decrease the out-commute. Ninety-five percent of the outcommuters surveyed stated they would like to work in Cherokee, however only 64 percent of those were willing to take less pay to do so. If they traveled more than 45 minutes each way, they were more likely to consider a reduction in pay to be closer to home. The overwhelming majority of these individuals earn $50,000 or more annually, they work in the professional and technical services sector, and their commute takes most of them to Cobb County or north Fulton County. These positions include engineering, information technology, design and advertising, which are available in Cherokee but not in the quantity needed to support the population. To facilitate a positive change in the out-commute trend, the community must first have available property and buildings to recruit prospective businesses and for existing business to expand. Second, Cherokee should capitalize on the talented and skilled workforce living in the community to attract new businesses that will create future employment options. “One of our biggest assets is our impressive workforce,” said Misti Martin, COED president. “Our office has been working diligently to bring companies to the county that would provide new opportunities to our residents.” While the percentage of the outcontinued on page 57

Hospital Selected for Baby-Friendly Initiative Northside Hospital-Cherokee is participating in the EMPower Breastfeeding Initiative to enhance maternity care practices and raise awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding. The Cherokee hospital is the only one in northwest Georgia selected to participate. Gwinnett Medical Center is the only other hospital north of Macon participating. The initiative is a 30-month process and officials hope to complete it and receive the Baby Friendly USA© designation around the time that the new hospital opens sometime in 2017. www.empowerbreastfeeding.org.

Model Railroad Open House Towne Lake resident Eric Siegel is opening his home from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 21 for families to visit his large O-scale model railroad layout, which takes up the basement of his Deer Run North home. Siegel’s 900-square-foot display is named The Appalachian & Western Railroad, and has been featured in several magazines. This open house is part of a larger tour of Atlantaarea model railroads called the Piedmont Pilgrimage (www. piedmontpilgrimage.com). Siegel’s layout is still under construction, which offers train enthusiasts a chance to see the process. Snacks and beverages will be offered to guests, and a limited number of free train gifts will be given away. Guests can enter a drawing to win a free train set. For information, call 404-400-2993. The address is 640 Overhill Drive. No charge for admission.

Honoring Vets Who’ve Lost Their Eyesight The Georgia National Cemetery was the site of an American flag monument dedication, attended by more than 80 veterans from the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans Foreign Wars, U.S. Submarine Veterans and Georgia Fallen Firefighters Foundation along with Lions and Rotary club members. This is the second braille flag at a national cemetery; the first is in the welcome center at Arlington Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Members of local Hightower Trail Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Cherokee Rose Society, Children of the American Revolution (CAR) were among those who raised funds for the monument. The braille flag has a dual purpose: to honor the 125th anniversary of the founding of the DAR and to honor veterans and active service men and women who suffer from ocular trauma and premature blindness. The Blinded Veterans Association reports more than 132,000 American veterans have lost their sight in defending our freedoms. Members of the DAR Hightower Trail Chapter and CAR Cherokee Rose Society attended the unveiling. 8 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS School Supplies Collected at Reinhardt Headed to Kenya

Hearthstone residents participated in the Walk for Hunger event.

Local Seniors Take Part in Food Drive The residents of Hearthside Towne Lake, an independent senior living community in Woodstock, raised more than $500 and to date have donated 8,700-plus food items to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Each year the food bank services more than 600 charities, with most of their efforts going to help children and senior citizens. Money also was collected during a late September Walk for Hunger event. To date, Hearthside communities have collected almost 45,000 food items. www.hearthsidetownelake.com.

Children living at the House of Hope orphanage in Kenya, a mission started by Canton-based nonprofit SERV International, will receive the 3,461 items collected by Reinhardt University students, faculty and staff. Dr. Joann Adeogun, an assistant professor of business, organized the collection, which includes 1401 pencils, 224 pens, 600 crayons and markers, 163 pieces of chalk, 672 notebooks or paper items, 113 dictionaries and thesauruses, 243 erasers, and miscellaneous items like packs of rubber bands, rulers and pencil sharpeners. Adeogun described the supply drive as her way of giving back. “It has nothing to do with any class,” she said. “It was just a project worth doing.” Adeogun first learned about the orphanage this past spring when her international business class, and a project management class taught by business instructor Tina Boosel, worked with SERV. Adeogun felt called to do more, so she set up a school supply drive on Reinhardt’s Waleska campus this fall. She also collected letters of support for the children from students in several Reinhardt business classes and from young people at Boosel’s church, Antioch Christian Church in Canton. “The idea of the letters was to let the children know they are connecting with someone else outside of Kenya,” Adeogun said. “They now have 50 orphans; last spring they had 40.” The supplies will be delivered to Kenya as part of a mission trip conducted by SERV. For more information on SERV, visit www.servone. org or call 770-516-1108. For more on Reinhardt, visit www.Reinhardt. edu or call 770-720-5600.

Cherokee Leadership Graduates Class of 2015 Congrats to the Leadership Cherokee Class of 2015, who recently completed a nine-month course on a range of topics that included economic development, infrastructure, government, justice, arts, education, recreation, tourism, public safety, healthcare and social/ human services. Leadership Cherokee is a program of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Shane West earned the Bob Frongillo Magic Spark Plug Award and Greg Erdely was the Cristal Stancil Leadership Award recipient. West and Erdely are with Cherokee Fire and Emergency Services. Counting this recent group, the program has more than 550 graduates in 27 years.

The leadership class, front row from left: Shane West, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services; Rachel White, WellStar Health System; Jeremy Smith, City of Holly Springs; Jennifer Simonis, Healing Hands Youth Ranch; Lindsey Roberson, Southeast Restoration Group; John Black, 1 Man Geek, LLC; Tracey Satterfield, Live Clean, Inc.; Jenny Wood-Harris, Goshen Valley Foundation; Abby Roach, Roach, Caudill & Gunn, LLP; Angela Reece, Mauldin Body Shop; Brittany Duncan, City of Woodstock; Kathy Lambert, Chart, Inc.; Ginger Fowler, Georgia Probation Management; Jennifer Davo, Studio 5 Salon, and Kendall Jones, MUST Ministries. Back row, from left: Bill Sebring, Cherokee County School District; Jeffrey Pourchier, Reinhardt University; Greg Erdely, Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services; Kelly Geiken, Edward Jones; Kim Whatley, Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency; Scott Rule, Chattahoochee Technical College, and Chad Atkinson, Cherokee FOCUS. 10 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

WE’RE CHEROKEE’S COMMUNITY HOSPITAL WITH AN EMPHASIS ON “COMMUNITY. ” Northside Hospital-Cherokee offers more than the latest medical treatments. Since becoming part of Cherokee County in 1997, we’ve been a devoted member of the community. We contribute to Partners in Education in Cherokee County schools and our physicians and staff have donated more than 10,000 hours of volunteer work to local organizations. In all, we’ve invested millions in local community centers, academic institutions and charity organizations in Cherokee County. We will continue to invest in and support Cherokee. Because it’s our home, too.

Cherokee’s community hospital. Northside.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

The Story of Happy Lives and a Happy Marriage BY DORIS AND SID’S SON, ROB GOODMAN

It was like a fairy tale story. Sixty years ago, Doris Goldstein and Sid Goodman were set up on a blind date by Sid’s aunt. Doris was a 25-yearold nurse, an only child growing up in Brooklyn New York and living a modest lifestyle. She was beautiful and yet she was a little shy when it came to men. Sid was a 33-year-old World War II veteran who traveled to many places around the globe as an airplane mechanic. Fortunately he was never in active combat and instead enjoyed meeting ladies from faraway places. Once back in New York, he moved in with his very protective and nurturing Jewish mother, who wanted only one thing; to cater to her son’s every need. She made sure Sid was well fed and doted on him daily. When Sid met Doris, it did not take long for him to realize that she was the one for him. After only six weeks of dating, they were engaged to be married. Six weeks of dating probably isn’t the best recipe for a successful marriage, but for them it was the perfect “dish!” They were married and moved into their first apartment in Kew Gardens, New York City. Sid and Doris purchased their first home in Laurelton, NY, and Doris stayed home to raise their

two daughters and one son, until the youngest was in school. They stayed in New York until three years ago, when they finally joined their three children, seven grandchildren and numerous granddogs in Woodstock. Moving to Woodstock was quite a change for Sid, 92, and Doris, 84. They had never left New York due to their friends and familiarity of a place they had been their entire lives. They did come visit often, and also traveled every year to a new place, seeing Alaska, Europe and much of the United States. They were fortunate to live a good life and enjoy good health. On Oct. 30, 2015, Doris and Sid Goodman celebrated 60 years of marriage. They live in the Glens at Mountainbrook and, for the most part, live independently. Sid will be 95 in January, and Doris 87 in December, and they go to the gym every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, where they enjoy social interactions with other seniors at the gym. Sid continues to drive with Doris navigating

continued on page 57

Celebrations!

Rebecca Pudysz and Robert Grimes

Carli Fendley and Andy Marinelli

Rassie Boone Segers

Wyatt Ford Barton

Engaged to be married April 16, 2016

were married June 27, 2015 at Mason’s Farm at River’s Edge

Samantha Kistler

Age 5 on Nov. 29 Happy Birthday to our #1 best girl! Love, Daddy, Mommy and James

Happy first birthday! We love you so much little man! Mom, dad and big brother Ford

Baylee Allyson Moreland

Born Sept. 8, 2015 5 lbs 10 oz., 18.5 inches Proud parents, Brett and Kim Moreland Congrats Big Brother Benjamyn!

Noa Lewis

Age 5 on Oct. 29 Happy Birthday Diva Love Mom, Dad and big sis Gabs

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Age 2 on Nov. 4 Happy birthday sweet boy! We love you! Mama and Daddy

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com December deadline is Nov. 10. Please specify Around Woodstock, TowneLaker or Sixes Living.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Happy Thanksgiving! Since we can’t invite each of you to join us for a festive dinner, we thought the next best thing would be to share our favorite recipes. We hope you enjoy - and wish each of you a blessed holiday with family and friends.

Ja ckie Lou di n

Patty Ponder

“Cannolis are a favorite Italian dessert we always enjoy during our holiday meals. Our family Thanksgiving is a combination of American and Italian traditions, with turkey and lasagna, and pumpkin pie and cannolis for dessert.”

Cannoli

“I was really nervous the first time I cooked my own turkey. I think I must have called my mother at least a half-dozen times to ask her questions about the process. And yes, I did remember to remove the bag of giblets from inside the turkey prior to cooking it. A few years ago I started brining my turkeys (soaking the turkey in a solution of salt and water). Try brining your bird this year. It will change your world, I promise – or at least it will change your turkey. You won’t be disappointed!” Family meal at the Ponder home.

• 1½ pounds Sargento Ricotta Cheese

(It is important to use Sargento because it is a dry ricotta, versus Polly-O, which I love in my lasagna, but is too wet for cannolis.)

• 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar • ½ bag miniature chocolate chips • 1 teaspoon vanilla • Empty cannoli shells

(I usually get mine at Publix and ask for chocolate-dipped shells.)

Mix all of these ingredients together. Spoon into cannoli shells just before eating; you shouldn’t do this too early because the shells will get soggy.

Christie Dee se

“This recipe is special to the Deese family because it came from my husband’s grandmother more than 22 years ago. It is an all-time favorite that I am required to make every single year, specifically for my husband James, my dad Terry Schmitz and my uncle Mike Cooper. I just know that I’m not allowed to show up on Thanksgiving without this dish. Even if I must miss Thanksgiving dinner due to other family obligations, I send this dish to my husband’s side of the family as a peace offering — works every time! I think of sweet Granny Deese, and smile as I prepare this dish so everyone can devour it while offering never-ending compliments.”

Sweet Potato Souffle

• 3 to 4 cups sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed. • 1 cup sugar • ⅓ stick butter, melted • ½ cup milk (or cream) • ½ teaspoon salt • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 teaspoon vanilla Topping: • ⅓ stick of butter • 1 cup brown sugar • ⅓ cup self-rising flour • 1 cup chopped pecans Mix sweet potatoes and next six ingredients and place in a baking dish. Mix topping, sprinkle on top of potatoes and bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes. 14

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Turkey Brine

• 1 cup sea salt • ½ cup sugar • ½ cup brown sugar • 5 bay leaves

• 2 tablespoons black peppercorns • 1 tablespoon garlic powder • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary • 1 tablespoon rubbed sage • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

Dissolve sugars and salt in 2 quarts of boiling water. Once it is dissolved, add the other spices and let simmer for about 20 minutes. Add in 1-2 quarts more water (depending on the size of your bird). Place your turkey in a large Ziploc storage bag (one of the big ones designed for holding sweaters). When the brine solution is cool, pour over bird (you can add a bunch of ice cubes to speed up this process). Add more water if necessary you want the entire turkey fully submerged. Let bird sit in brine for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. If your bird won’t fit in your refrigerator, put it in a cooler and cover with ice. When you are ready to cook your turkey, remove it from the Ziploc bag, then rinse and roast as you normally would.

Michelle McCu lloch

“I’ve been making this bread since I was 9 years old. I had a book called “Cranberry Thanksgiving,” which is the story of a grandmother who loses her secret recipe. The book set my imagination on fire, I just had to try the recipe, which was included in the book. It was a big hit.”

Cranberry Bread

• 2 cups sifted flour • 1 cup sugar • 1½ teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ¼ cup butter softened • 1 egg beaten • 1 teaspoon orange peel • ¾ cup orange juice • 1 cup chopped walnuts • 1½ cups fresh cranberries, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix butter, sugar, egg, orange juice and orange peel together. In a separate bowl mix dry ingredients and add to the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly, fold in cranberries and walnuts. Pour in a greased and floured loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour and 10 min.

From our tables to yours Ca n di Ha n niga n

“Be prepared for your family to ditch the traditional pumpkin pie in favor of this dish.”

Better than Pumpkin Pie • 1 16-oz. can pumpkin • 1 cup sugar • 1½ cups milk • 3 eggs • ½ teaspoon salt • 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 teaspoon lemon extract • 1 pkg. yellow cake mix • 1 ½ sticks butter, melted Topping: • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 tablespoon brown sugar • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Pour into a well-greased 13 x 9 in. pan. Sprinkle dry cake mix over the top, then drizzle butter evenly over cake mix. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour until lightly browned. Serve with whipped topping. Serves 10-12.

Denise Griff i n

“This is my mother-in-law’s (Betty Griffin of Thomasville, GA) recipe, and the one my husband looks most forward to.”

Brown Rice

• 1 cup rice • ¾ stick melted butter • 1 can French Onion soup (not the mix) • 1 can beef consommé • 1 can sliced mushrooms

Mix all ingredients in a Corning Ware™ dish, then cover. Bake at 350 for one hour.

L a u ra L atchford

“Growing up in Maryland, a Thanksgiving Dinner is not complete without a side of fresh local seafood. With crab season gone, this would leave us with oysters from the Chesapeake Bay. I still try to carry on this tradition and have fried oysters every Thanksgiving day.”

Fried Oysters

• 1 qt. fresh oysters • 2 eggs • 1 tablespoon Old Bay® Seasoning • 16 ounces cracker meal • 16 ounces seafood breader • Canola oil

Mix all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Whisk the two eggs in a separate bowl. Strain and rinse the oysters, adding them to the whisked egg. Remove the oysters one by one from egg to the dry mix, coating each oyster well. Deep-fry in canola oil at 375 degrees until golden brown.

K a ren F la ig

“My mom Shirley is 75 years old, and has been making our family’s Thanksgiving dressing all of my life. She never used an exact recipe - just a little of this and that — and it made perfect sense to her. Last year the torch was nervously passed to me, since standing in the kitchen all day is becoming difficult for her. I knew this day would come and I also knew that despite my best effort, my dressing would not measure up. I needed courage, confidence and time (all of which I lack), along with exact instructions. It wasn’t my momma’s dressing, but the following recipe was a big hit; it has become our new tradition – and it’s foolproof. ”

Cornbread Dressing

• ½ cup butter • 2 cups chopped celery • 2 cups chopped leeks • 1 tablespoon minced garlic • Buttermilk Cornbread, crumbled (recipe follows) • 3 cups cooked crumbled Karen’s mom (left) and aunt Joan. biscuits (I used Sister Shubert’s frozen) • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled • 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth • 2 large eggs, slightly beaten • 1 cup sour cream • 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning • 1 ½ tablespoons ground sage • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper • I also add shredded rotisserie chicken

Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease a 13 x 9 in. baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, set aside. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat until it melts. Add celery, leeks, garlic, cook 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender. In a large bowl, combine cornbread, biscuits, bacon, broth, eggs, sour cream, poultry seasoning, sage, salt and pepper. Stir just until crumbs are moistened. Spoon into prepared baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes until center is set.

Buttermilk Cornbread • 6 tablespoons butter • 2 cups buttermilk-flavored self-rising cornmeal mix • 2¾ cups whole buttermilk Preheat oven to 425. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet, heat butter until melted. In a medium bowl, combine cornmeal mix and buttermilk. Spoon batter into hot skillet and bake 30 minutes. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Heroes Need Help, Too BY SUSAN SCHULZ

Veterans have spent much of their lives putting themselves in harm’s way as they fight for our freedoms. They’ve sacrificed so much to ensure our safety. It’s good to know there’s a group of caring volunteers dedicated to taking care of them. Jim Lindenmayer is director of the Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program for American Legion Post 45. The plight of veterans who either don’t have a home, or have housing that’s in disrepair, is something that has kept him awake many nights. Veterans also struggle with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance abuse, loss of work, and a host of other challenges that contribute to loss of stable housing. Lindenmayer launched the Veteran program last November and has already served at least 100 veterans, mostly from the Vietnam era. The program has expanded from helping homeless vets to include vets who are financially challenged. A few success stories: • A Korean War veteran with limited funds needed a new air-conditioning unit. The Homeless Veterans Program received a $50,000 grant from Home Depot, and as a result, was able to provide a new air conditioning system for this vet. • A homeless Vietnam-era veteran contacted the program for help in improving his employment situation. Program volunteers contacted MUST Ministries, which found a local shelter for him to stay. Volunteers are working with the Georgia Department of Labor’s Veteran placement team to get him into a suitable job. • Another Vietnam-era veteran was relying on electric space heaters to warm his home. The Homeless Veterans Program’s utility assistance arrangement paid his outstanding utility bill, and is working with a volunteer group to make

Volunteers build a ramp for an Army veteran whose son is wheelchair bound. 16

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

repairs to his HVAC system. “We have learned that homeless prevention, jobs, benefits assistance and mental health support are also needs of the veterans we serve. With winter coming, we want to stay ahead of the needs of our veterans,” Lindenmayer said. Cherokee County has the seventh largest veteran population in Georgia, with about 700 vets currently living in the county. Many of them do not have the resources necessary to get to the Veterans Administration facilities to receive help. Lindenmayer has accomplished much by working with other non-profit groups, such as MUST Ministries and Habitat for Humanity, to get the help these heroes need. Last July, a partnership was formed with Give an Hour, a national nonprofit organization providing free mental health services to military members, veterans, and their loved ones. All involved celebrated over the impact this partnership will have on behalf of the veterans who served faithfully and now need help. “We believe coordination and collaboration between agencies and organizations within communities is crucial,” said Dr. Barbara Van Dahlen, founder and president of Give an Hour. “Our mental health professionals — whether they are giving direct counseling services, helping to raise awareness, or providing education — play a vital role in the health and well-being of the communities in which they live.” All honorably discharged veterans - not just those who have served in war - are eligible for service through the Homeless Veterans Program. If you know someone who needs assistance, please contact jlindenmayer80@gmail.com. There are many ways to help if you want to be involved: donate time, offer housing, help with utility bills and repairs, build ramps, provide clothing or make a financial donation. All financial support is tax deductible (501(c)19 Veteran Program). For more information, visit www.legion.org or call American Legion Post 45 at 770-479-4405.

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and serves at Watermarke Church.

Remembering the U.S. Infantry BY JACKIE LOUDIN

dioramas that depicts the U.S. Infantry’s 240-year Until recently, I was unaware that the National history from the American Revolution to present Infantry Museum and Soldier Center existed, and day. The figures in the exhibits are sculptures cast I certainly didn’t know it was practically in our from actual active-duty soldiers who posed for backyard. Located on the edge of Fort Benning, the representations. A powerful musical score it takes a little over two hours to make the drive and realistic light show add to the drama of the from Woodstock to Columbus, Ga. room. The museum and center’s mission is to The different galleries and exhibits allow “provide education and training to Soldiers and guests to travel through history from World I their families, as well as the general public on and World War II to the Cold War, and from the all aspects of the history of the U.S. Infantry, the Vietnam to the Gulf wars. Some artifacts are origin and development of Fort Benning, and on display in glass cases while others, like actual an overview of the U.S. Army.” From personal Army helicopters and airplanes, hang overhead. experience, the facility goes above and beyond There’s a lot to take in and it’s easy to miss some its mission. It serves as a reminder to us of the of the details if you don’t look closely. My family many who have made sacrifices throughout our agreed that a second trip would be necessary to country’s history to secure our freedom. explore the museum in its entirety. At the entrance, visitors are greeted by the The National Infantry Museum and Soldier statue known as “Follow Me!”—a World War II Center is open 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Tuesdays through battle cry attributed to Col. Aubrey S. Newman The “Follow Me!” statue keeps watch Saturdays and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. that is also the motto of the U.S. Army Infantry. at the museum’s entrance. Admission is free, however a $5 donation per The imposing figure depicts an infantryman person is suggested. Believe me, this visit is worth so much more! beckoning his fellow soldiers to follow him into war. For more information, check out the museum and center’s Visitors are directed to the museum’s signature exhibit, “The Last website at www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. 100 Yards.” A ramp leads guests through a collection of life-sized

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 • downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

We Cure Sick Grout!® the

GROUT Doctor

Since 1992

Tile & Grout Repair Grout Cleaning & Sealing Regrouting & Recaulking

FREE ESTIMATES

678.383.1311

jeffarnold@groutdoctor.com • www.GroutDoctor.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

My Message is Simple: Wear the Gown! BY DONNIE HENRIQUES

I was pleased and honored to have been asked to contribute to this issue by writing an article relating to men’s health. I would like to share my personal story in the hopes that it will increase awareness among men about the need for regular checkups. You see, in August, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. While the doctors tell me it was caught early, there is still apprehension on my part. By the time you read this, I will have had the surgery to correct the situation and hopefully will not need radiation or chemotherapy. The one thing that may have saved my life was my annual physical where, in addition to the exam, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test was performed. While my PSA was barely above the threshold for concern, the percentage increase from last year was significant. I credit my internist, Dr. Alan Mills, with raising the concern, and my urologist, Dr. Carl Capaluto, with catching it early.

You see, in August, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

I’ve been sharing my story with friends and family members with the hope of sparking an interest in getting a prostate exam. I know of a few people who have taken the hint, and have gone to their doctors, asking specifically for the exam. That, in itself, is the thing that pleases me the most. The takeaway is that all men should be checked annually, whether or not they have had symptoms. I did not have any to speak of; that’s why I consider myself lucky. If a man is diagnosed with this disease, there are many different options available. I chose surgery because I want ISIS—the name I’ve given it— out of my body and I don’t want to take the chance for a reoccurrence. So, my message is simple. – As Channel 11 states during its public service announcements, “ Wear the Gown!”

Donnie Henriques started his community service as a city council member in 1999, and is serving his third term as Woodstock’s mayor.

Healthy Eating at Thanksgiving BY MATT NEAL

November is National Diabetes Month. If you have diabetes, if the disease runs in your family, or if you are trying to eat healthy, I have bad news for you. You are in enemy territory. Thanksgiving is coming and it’s what many of us call “starchgiving” – that delicious, holiday crammed with yummy casseroles, stuffing and side dishes filled to capacity with starchy, carbohydrate-filled goodness…baked with cream-ofeverything-soup. Five years ago, when my doctor first told me I was on the verge of becoming a diabetic, I didn’t take much notice. However, as years passed, I soon realized what the true enemy was: It was my pantry, which was filled with cans of creamy delicious soups, boxes of processed pastas and packages of salty, flour-filled gravy mixes. When I first went to the doctor, I suspected something was wrong. Eating foods with lots of carbs or sugars gave me a strange, nauseous feeling. Plus, I became so lethargic, I could hardly move. I was lucky my body was at the very beginning stages of diabetes; however, as time passes, the symptoms get worse: cuts or sores heal slowly, vision problems begin, you can feel tingling in your toes, and so on. Do yourself a favor and don’t put off that dreaded trip to the doc. Many people control the disease solely by altering their diets and avoiding the bad stuff usually found sitting beside the turkey and cranberries. 18

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

In my youth, Thanksgiving was a time to gobble every good thing in sight. These days, it’s not a matter of depriving myself, but of eating what I should be eating instead. Join me in resisting those savory dishes of vegetables covered in mounds of grayish brown gunk that makes you believe there is more flavor added. Resist those creamy, starchy potatoes and those heavenly-smelling, fresh-baked white bread rolls. I’m here to tell you, there is life beyond the starchy and delicious processed foods we spent our childhood gorging on. In my time in the wilderness, I’ve found peace and happiness in such unexpected places, such as cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, and green beans cooked with onions. Trust me when I tell you that full-flavor can be found without a can of Cream of Mushroom soup. Satisfaction can be had without starchy, fatty gravy or sugary desserts. I know my words may seem ludicrous, almost blasphemous...but I have tasted the goodness of cauliflower substituted for potatoes, and broccoli casseroles made without cream-of-anything, and the taste is good.

Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at www. mattnealwriter@yahoo.com.

A Ritz Cracker Kind of Guy BY DR. MIKE LITREL

My doctor partners and I take turns being on call for the holidays. Two years ago, my turn fell on Thanksgiving, and as I looked across the table at my loved ones and listened to their loud and animated conversation, I remember noticing they all seemed to be in various states of inebriation. I began to wish the hospital would call me. Nothing is more annoying than being the only sober one at the dinner table. Especially when you paid for all the wine. I realized there were three ways to handle my unhappiness. One, I could make sure I wasn’t on call the following year so I could join in the frivolity. Two, I could cultivate new friends and family who were less inclined to intoxicate themselves at holiday meals. Or three, I could view this moment of unhappiness as a spiritual lesson and walk more strongly the path of Love. The decision was easy. I decided not to be on call again. Holidays are stressful, but particularly so for women. Women are more aware of the subtleties of celebration. They put effort into aesthetic touches that would never dawn on a man. The intention, I believe, is to manifest beauty. But sometimes the result is marital conflict. Every Thanksgiving, Ann makes six dozen homemade crackers called “Cheddar Crisps” that come in three flavors: cracked blacked pepper, caraway seed, and something called nigella seed. Ann carefully sequesters her crackers in a tin box to be doled out at the right moment. Every guest is given three crackers just after saying grace, one of each flavor - and a bowl of butternut squash soup. It’s such a big deal to Ann that we handle each cracker like Grandma’s antique tea cup. Unfortunately, I am more a Ritz cracker kind of guy, accustomed to shoveling large quantities into my mouth until I am full. So for me, this homemade cracker stuff is holiday stress. How do I express genuine appreciation for the work my wife has put into this pre-Thanksgiving snack, without conveying my true thoughts? Stop wasting so much time already – they’re just crackers! Instead, I channel Effete Cracker Connoisseur, solemnly critiquing the subtleties of each flavor and commenting about how the steam from the soup opens up the palate so one can fully appreciate the differences. But truthfully, I just wanted Ann to stop making them Last year I got my wish. I was not on call, and no homemade crackers were to be found! But I noticed a few things. Free to imbibe a glass of wine, I found I did not want any, but instead chose sparkling water. And the sodden idiots inclined to boorish conversation I remembered from the year before were actually beautiful people I am so very blessed to have in my life. continued on page 57 Michael Litrel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS is board certified in the subspecialty female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. He is a board certified urogynecologist and obstetrician/ gynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Helping Others Because many of our friends and neighbors struggle financially every day, there are many charities that work hard to help people in need. Here’s a list of local nonprofits that have additional needs for the holidays. To learn about many other ways to help throughout the year, visit www.volunteercherokee.org.

Cherokee County Senior Services

Cherokee Family Violence Center

The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency, Cherokee County Senior Services and the Volunteer Aging Council are working together on the annual Adopt-A-Senior 2015 program. Volunteers are asked to “adopt” a senior who receives services through Cherokee County Senior Services and provide him or her with a cardigan sweater, $25 gift card and a book of stamps. Sizes and gender information will be assigned when volunteers register on Nov. 9. Deadline to drop off gift packages is Dec. 11. To participate, contact Frankie Sanders at fsanders@ cherokeega.com or 770-924-7768.

The center has a transitional housing complex with 72 apartments and an emergency shelter that accommodates 12 women and children. The Thanksgiving wish list includes turkey or ham, fresh or boxed potatoes, gravy mix, corn or other canned vegetables, pasta, pumpkin pie mix, instant coffee, hot chocolate mix, fresh fruit and rolls. For delivery details, call 770-479-4641 or email jessica@cfvc.org.

www.cherokeega.com

Cherokee Thanksgiving Hosted by Canton First United Methodist Church. Volunteers will serve approximately 2,000 meals in Cherokee and Pickens counties on Thanksgiving. Delivery, dine-in or pickup. This dinner is for anyone who needs a meal, does not want to eat alone or simply isn’t able to prepare Thanksgiving dinner. Local area emergency service personnel and hospital emergency staff members will Cherokee Thanksgiving volunteers prepare receive dinners. To turkey for the dinner plates. order a meal, call 770877-2601. Dinners are delivered between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. To dine in or pick up, also call 770-877-2601 to reserve your meals. Dine in starts at noon. Volunteers for delivery can email ctdrivers007@gmail.com. Allow a few days for response. Opportunities to volunteer to assist with meal prep and serving start the week before Thanksgiving; email CTvolunteers2015@ gmail.com or call Barbara at 770-656-9209 for more information. Allow a few days for response. Food or monetary donations also are needed. Mail a check to CFUMC, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton, GA 30114. Indicate Cherokee Thanksgiving in the memo line. 20

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

www.cfvc.org

The Children’s Haven

www.CherokeeChildrensHaven.org The Children’s Haven is a local nonprofit that promotes the health and happiness of children in Cherokee who are affected by abuse. The group works to ensure their safety, advocate on their behalf and respond to meet their needs. Holiday needs include new coats, socks, pajamas and underwear. Target or Walmart gift cards are welcome. Items can be dropped off at 1083 Marietta Highway in Canton. 770-345-3274.

Feed My Lambs

www.feedmylambs.net

The nonprofit, which offers free Christian preschools— including a location in Canton—holds Happy Birthday Jesus parties each year for the young students. Individuals or groups can sponsor a child: $10 gets a Happy Birthday Jesus shirt, $25 gets the child a shirt, gift bag, balloon, cake and drink. Groups may be interested in sponsoring a party by providing a portion of party needs (new unwrapped gifts, cupcakes, drinks or T-shirts) or show up to volunteer at the party. For more details, call Maggie Bridges at 770-795-9349.

Forever Fed

www.foreverfed.org The mobile food ministry needs donations of kid-friendly soups and boxes of granola bars for the Food4U/Cans 4 Kids food boxes that are distributed to children at risk of food insecurity in Cherokee County. Each box contains seven meals and seven snacks for one child. For details, call 678-883-3314 or email susan@foreverfed.org.

During the Holiday Season Give Canton the Bird

Never Alone

www.givecantonthebird.com

www.NeverAlone.org

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and once again, Action Church is asking Cherokee County residents to donate turkeys and other supplies to the Give Canton the Bird campaign. The goal is to give away 1,000 complete Thanksgiving meals to families in need this holiday season. A complete list of items needed is available online.

The food pantry needs financial donations (tax deductible) to provide Thanksgiving turkeys and family meal boxes to 600 local families who are having a rough time financially. Never Alone’s partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank allows it to purchase food at greatly discounted prices. Donate online or by check, made payable to and mailed to: Never Alone Outreach, P. O. Box 1904, Woodstock, GA 30188.

Goshen Valley Foundation www.goshenvalley.org

The holidays can be difficult times for the foster youth that Goshen Valley serves. The youth can use a little extra support from their community, and area residents can help by providing meals for the youth and house parents. “Frozen casseroles are a huge blessing for our house parents who are having to prepare three meals a day when the boys are out of school,” says Zach Blend, executive director of Goshen Valley. Individuals or small groups are encouraged to donate frozen meals. You can even deliver them in person and take a tour of Goshen Valley. Gift cards from Walmart, Target and Amazon can also help to fill many Christmas wish lists. Another need is artificial Christmas trees for the homes. These can be small, tabletop trees to full-size trees. For more information, email Carley Jacobs at cstephens@goshenvalley.org or call 770-345-9535.

MUST Ministries - Cherokee

www.mustministries.org

Thanksgiving boxes will be given to more than 1,000 families this year. The agency is looking for donations of cans of corn, green beans, cranberry sauce and sweet potatoes; boxes or packets of mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cornbread mix and stuffing; packets of gravy mix, frozen pies, and turkeys. Non-perishable items can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Nov. 3-13 at MUST’s Canton location at 111 Brown Industrial Parkway. Frozen turkeys and pies can be delivered 8-9 a.m. Nov. 23-25. It helps to let MUST know what items you’ll be bringing, so please call Ranettia Beasley at 770-576-0359 or e-mail at cherokeeholiday@mustministries.org.

Operation Christmas Child

www.samaritanspurse.org

Representatives will be collecting donations of filled shoeboxes Nov. 16-23 at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse, collects boxes filled with toys and hygiene items and ships around the world to children in need. Collection times are: noon-2 p.m. Nov. 1620, with an additional time 5-8 p.m. Nov. 18; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 21, noon-3 p.m. Nov. 22 and 9-10 a.m. Nov. 23.

Papa’s Pantry

www.papaspantry.org

Donations of turkeys, hams and produce are needed, as well as non-perishable food items. A list of seasonal needs is kept up-to-date on the website. Papa’s Pantry is a food and stability training organization for Cherokee residents. For details, call 770-591-4730.

Secret Santa

www.cherokeesanta.com

The Secret Santa program of the Department of Family and Children’s Services for Cherokee County offers a way for individuals, businesses or larger groups such as Sunday school classes or scout troops to help the more than 350 children in foster care this year. Sponsors can donate as much or as little as they can. All size donations are appreciated. For more details, call the Secret Santa phone line at 678-427-9393 or email cherokeesanta@yahoo.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Woodstock Native Opts for Bold Hair Color BY JODI TIBERIO & VENÉSSA LANIER

Ali Soumas, our November makeover model, is a native of Woodstock. She is from a well-known Woodstock family — her dad is the fire chief of Woodstock. Ali told us that she does not change her look often, but she wanted to “spice up” her style to surprise her boyfriend of more than seven years. Ali visited Brooklynn’s to pick out a new poncho for the fall. Jenna, our assistant manager, had fun showing Ali the

many choices for this season. Ponchos are popular because they are not only soft, cozy and trendy, but they also fit almost everyone. Ali and Jenna decided on this popular cream-colored poncho with fringe. Monogrammed boot cuffs from MudPie add another fun element to this outfit. These boot cuffs are a popular favorite and are readily available in most letters. With some skinny jeans and boots, this look is fabulous-made-easy. Salon and Spa Venéssa’s Rising Star stylist Kara Wood consulted with Ali. Collectively, they decided to do a bold color change. Kara used hair painting techniques to lighten Ali’s natural (virgin) medium-brown hair. Since Ali has never had dramatic hair color before, Kara kept the lightened hair away from Ali’s natural hair color at the scalp, which will allow for her hair color to be easily maintained, and grow out looking natural. After the color processed, Kara glazed Ali’s hair with a color conditioning treatment to even out the tone and add shine. The end result was a shiny, golden-blonde color that brightened Ali’s face and gave her the “spice” she was looking for. In order to maintain this Balayage color through the fall, Ali will visit the salon again to freshen-up her color with the same treatment. As her hair grows out, a few “babylights” can be added around the front for even more brightness. Ali’s new hairstyle was complete with a healthy trim. Kara cut Ali’s long hair into a v-shape, adding long layers for movement. As for her makeup, Kara chose the new Sublime Spirit fall makeup collection to enhance Ali’s natural beauty. Kara showed Ali how to do a dramatic smoky eye, and how to create soft and natural-looking lips. Since her eyes are blue, Ali was surprised that Kara used a Blue Lapis eye shadow. Kara explained that with the correct shadow color and placement, the color can actually enhance her blue eyes. Finally, a nude Sandstone lip color gave her lips the perfect amount of color and shine to finish the makeover. We only hope Ali’s dad knows how to put out the sparks when her boyfriend sees her new look.

Ali told us that she does not change her look often, but she wanted to “spice up” her style.

Jodi Tiberio owns Branches and Brooklynn’s boutiques. Contact her at Jodi@tberioretail.com. Venéssa Lanier owns Salon and Spa Venéssa, and can be reached at salonvenessa@gmail.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Sean Patrick Kaufman

sublime

SPIRIT You’ll experience the

Start Giving Thanks for Friends, Family BY SEAN KAUFMAN

Since the time you were in your mom’s belly, I have been thankful for you. Moments after you were born the nurses said, “Talk to him” and the moment I did, you stopped screaming and looked for me. I am thankful for your recognition. As I drove home with you for the first time, I am thankful that something so small made it home safely; it was the only time I ever really followed any sort of speed limit. I am thankful for the first large burp, your first smile, hearing you laugh, and learning never to give a baby a box of raisins (no matter how much they like it). Worrying that you wouldn’t crawl and thankful that you did. Panicking that you wouldn’t walk and thankful that you ran. Concerned that you would never talk and thrilled that you have never stopped speaking. Thankful that you can read, write and know the difference between right and wrong. I thank you for never embarrassing our family name and always trying your best. I am wrong sometimes, and I thank you for your forgiveness and your beautiful heart. I thank you for laughing and allowing me to hug you when you cry. I am thankful for the opportunity to give you advice and witness your growth in life. Son, I am thankful for what you have taught me—the lessons of life—but most of all I am thankful for having the chance to be your Dad. I love you and always have. It’s November. Let those you love know how thankful you are for them. Thanksgiving is about taking the time to eulogize the living, especially those you love. Waiting until they can no longer hear you means you have waited too long. Start with your family and move to your friends. It can take 30 seconds or hours. Either way, letting someone know you are thankful for him or her being in your life is truly one of the greatest gifts you can ever give to another. I wish all of you a very wonderful, safe and healthy Thanksgiving. God bless.

sublime in every cut, color and style at salon and spa venéssa. Book your appointment today and experience our new hair and makeup colors for fall.

hair • skin • body • nails • makeup salon • spa hours mon & fri 9-6 tues, wed, thurs 9-9 sat 8:30-5 off-peak spa days

october – TUESDAY & THURSDAY november – MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

stay connected.

specials & promotions

770.591.2079 • www.salonvenessa.com 8516 main street • downtown woodstock

Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Open House at Woodstock Fire Station #14 PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

The Oct. 10 event, the first open house in Woodstock, was such a success (with more than 3,000 in attendance) that it’s likely to become an annual event. “Our goal is to have an open door no matter what day it is,” said Fire Safety Education Sgt. George Williams. “The biggest reason people

see public safety individuals is during a time when it’s not so relaxed. Our idea and focus is to let the community know we are here to help people, but we also want to develop relationships with the community so they’ll feel comfortable with the fire department.“

An extrication demo showed how officers remove someone from a badly mangled car.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Home Depot Fire Safety Workshop PHOTOS BY DARLEEN PREM

The Woodstock Home Depot hosts workshops for kids on the first Saturday of each month, from 9 a.m. until noon. The October theme was fire safety, to promote Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Fire Month.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Out & About

Nov. 6

Downtown Art Walk in Woodstock is the theme for November’s Friday Night Live, set for 6-9 p.m. Bands will be playing throughout the downtown area. www.whatsupwoodstock.com.

Nov. 6-7

Multifamily church/community yard sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., at BridgePointe Church, 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock. The sale will include furniture, jewelry, computers, exercise equipment, books, housewares, and more. Credit cards accepted. www.bpc.life.

Nov. 7

Veterans Day celebration in Canton will begin at 10 a.m., and is taking the place of the monthly First Friday event. Canton officials and the local American Legion are sponsoring the event, which will include two guest speakers, a flag retirement ceremony and a parade featuring veterans. www.cantonhdl.com. Photos with Santa for children and pets will be available 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Pet Supermarket, 12185 Highway 92, Woodstock. Guests will receive photos the same day. Appointments can be made by calling Judy Davila at 770-432-9075 (between 6 and 9 p.m. MondayFriday). The event is a fundraiser for the Cherokee Volunteer Aging Council, which supports the safety and well being of senior citizens in the county. www.vac-cherokeega.org. Etowah Soccer Light the Night 5K/Fun Run will begin at 7 p.m. at Etowah High School’s stadium, 6565 Putnam Ford Road, Woodstock. Registration is $25. Proceeds support boys’ and girls’ soccer at Etowah. For details and to register, visit www.etowahsoccer.com. Merry Market at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, will be open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and will feature arts and crafts and boutique gift items. For updates, check Merry Market at Canton First Methodist on Facebook.

Nov. 11

Veterans Day Ceremony, candlelight ceremony begins at 7 p.m. in The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Dirty, torn and retired flags unfit to fly can be dropped off for proper disposal at collection boxes located in the parking lot of the Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, and next to the memorial in The Park at City Center.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Nov. 13

Jingle Bell Shop, sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, will be held 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Vendors will have gift and craft items for sale, and guests can visit with Santa. www. cherokeechamber.com.

Nov. 14

The Cherokee Music Teachers Association meeting begins at 10 a.m. at Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center in Waleska. The program will be “The Art of Practice” by Huu Mai, president of the Cobb Music Teachers Association. All programs are free and open to the public. For more info, please contact Linda Lokey at 770-720-1701 or linda@lokey.net. Safe Sitter – Babysitting Training and More is offered 8 a.m-4:30 p.m. at Northside Hospital - Cherokee education department, 130 Oakside Court, Canton. For ages 11 and older. The medically based program includes child care techniques, basic first aid, CPR, rescue techniques (choking infant and child rescue), babysitting as a business, and online and cell phone safety. Developed by pediatricians. Cost is $35. To register, call 770-345-2295 or email lana.mayfield@northside.com.

Nov. 14, Dec. 5 & 19

Latimer Hall Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. will feature handmade crafts, jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, wood, metal art and more. Members of local high school arts clubs will be selling their work. Latimer Hall is in Woodstock at 103 Towne Lake Parkway, a block off Main Street. Get updates on Facebook at Latimer Hall Arts and Crafts Show.

Nov. 17 - Dec. 19

Cherokee Arts Center Holiday Show and Sale will be open to the public during regular gallery hours, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturday. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will benefit the arts center. Members who want to participate can contact info@cherokeearts.org or call 770-704-6244. The center is at 94 North Street in downtown Canton. www.cherokeearts.org.

Nov. 26

13th annual Gobble Jog on the Marietta Square benefits MUST Ministries. The Gobble Jog is MUST’s largest fundraiser. Every Thanksgiving, thousands of people converge on the Marietta Square for a 10K or 5K run before Thanksgiving dinner. For information, email Cara Reeve at creeve@mustministries.org.

Nov. 28

Artisans Arts and Craft Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at His Hands Church, 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock, will feature handmade crafts, jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, wood, metal art and more. Get updates on Facebook at Latimer Hall Arts and Crafts Show. Cartoon Christmas Celebration, 1-6 p.m. at Autumn Hill Nursery, 4256 Earney Road, Woodstock. Free activities including a Grinch maze, “Frozen” karaoke, Minion photo booth, Rudolph scavenger hunt, a hay ride with Snoopy as he hunts for the Red Baron, a visit with Santa and storytelling with Mrs. Claus.

Dec. 1-17

Santa’s Mailbox will be in the gazebo at The Park at City Center, 101 Arnold Mill Road, so children in the community can drop off their letters to Santa. They can expect a personalized letter from Santa before Christmas! www.woodstockga.gov.

Dec. 4

Lighting of the Holly Springs Christmas tree begins at 6:30 p.m. at the train depot with seasonal songs and light refreshments. 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. www.hollyspringsga.us.

Dec. 4-6

The Atlanta Christmas Musical “What Are You Looking For?,” 8 p.m. Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Dec. 5 and 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at First Baptist Church Woodstock. The original musical drama was written by Karen Kleinschmidt and Patrick Walker. Original music written by Brad Cox, Jerald Hill (both First Baptist members) and Eva Wilson. Orchestration by Dove award winner Cliff Duren. www.fbcw.org.

Dec. 5

Christmas Jubilee in downtown Woodstock begins with the second annual Woodstock Christmas Run. Sign up at www.active.com or www.WoodstockChristmasRun.com. The parade of lights starts at 5:30 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, travels up Main Street to Towne Lake Parkway to Mill, Market and Fowler streets back to Main Street, ending at the school. For road closures and a parade map, visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com. After the parade, a festival will be held at The Park at City Center where the city’s mayor and Santa will flip the switch to light the park and Christmas tree. Santa will be available for visits, and the winners of the best holiday and most original floats will be announced. Music by Ronnie the DJ. Free marshmallow roast and activities for the entire family. Movie in the Park starts at 7:30 p.m. Visit www.woodstockparksandrec.com for more Jubilee details. Holly Springs Christmas parade begins at 1:30 p.m., and will wind through downtown on Holly Springs Parkway and end at the train depot. After the parade, visit with Santa and get a complimentary photo. Outdoor activities include entertainment, hot cocoa and treats and a children’s craft. www.hollyspringsga.us.

Dec. 6

Run for the Children 5K race and 1-mile Reindeer Run, sponsored by the Service League of Cherokee County, will be held in downtown Canton. Race-day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. in front of the gazebo. Registration before Nov. 29 is $25, and $30 after. A Santa’s Helpers category for those wishing to contribute and get a shirt without running is $15. www.serviceleague.net.

Dec. 12-13

Cherokee Chorale Christmas concerts will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Canton First United Methodist Church. Auditions for the 2016 spring concert, which will take place on March 20, will be held at 3 p.m. Jan. 3 in the choir room at Canton First UMC. www.cherokeechorale.org. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Bureaucracy, Bills and Brewers BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

The American system of government is not complex. The legislature writes the laws, the executive enforces the laws, and the judiciary sorts out arguments over the laws. There is one problem though: more often than not, the bureaucrats simply ignore the rules and do whatever they want. We see this problem in action at the federal level nearly every day. We hear stories about an out-of-control Environmental Protection Agency pushing new regulations on businesses, a new immigration policy ordered into existence, and more action on behalf of agencies and departments without any authority granted from the people’s representatives in Congress. This extends to the U.S. Supreme Court exercising “interpretations” of the law—which effectively rewrite the legislation—to the misuse of presidential executive orders to bypass the legislative process altogether. Recently, we’ve seen this extend to our state government through the Department of Revenue (DOR). The 2015 legislative session was a contentious one with debate on issues from transportation funding to repeal packages, and even included what has become known as the #SetBeerFree movement. As it turns out, Georgia is one of only three states in the nation that don’t allow craft brewers to sell you a beer while you visit their brewery. Forty-seven other states allow this. We allow it for wineries but not breweries. In Georgia, we have what is known as the “three-tier system” which was set up after prohibition. You can either brew beer, distribute (wholesale) it, or retail it, but you may not do any two of those three. This system has been fiercely protected (and lobbied for) by the distributors. Because of this strict categorization, brewers in our state have been placed at a distinct economic disadvantage (which explains why we have fewer craft breweries in all of Georgia than reside in Asheville, N.C.). This set the stage for Senate Bill 63, the Beer Jobs Bill, which after going through the sausage-making process that is legislating, evolved into an extremely watered-down version of itself. It did not allow breweries to sell beer, but instead allowed them to give it away as a “free souvenir” included in the price of educational tours. There were two important parts of the legislation which made this acceptable to the brewers: The brewers were allowed to charge variable amounts for different tours so that they could differentiate between a guest taking a few glasses to be consumed on premises and a guest taking a full growler home. Beer given away with these tours would be subject to use tax, but was explicitly codified as not being classified a retail sale so that no confusion could ensue. DOR, which governs alcohol in Georgia, managed to create confusion anyway. After the department was part of the committee process from January to April, the governor’s review process from April to May, and issued its own rules 28

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

and regulations from May to June, DOR officials decided to issue a new “policy bulletin” in the last days of September declaring that prices of these tours could not differ based upon the volume of beer included. Despite the fact that the law states that the beer souvenirs shall not be considered retail sales, the DOR has decided that they will be anyway if the breweries charge differing amounts for tours based on volume. This kills the entire model and completely ignores legislative intent (and the black and white language of the law). Why have I spent so much time talking about craft beer? Because SB63 resulted in 1,500 new jobs statewide—at least six new direct jobs and added investment in the hundreds of thousands in Woodstock alone. This was all done under the law as passed by our General Assembly and signed by our governor. Then with a few paragraphs, an unelected department slaughtered it. If you wonder why business owners seem timid to invest and grow in our current economy, it is because they fear actions like these. It’s a tremendous injustice for Georgia, the No. 1 state in which to do business, to allow these business owners to take risk under our laws only to be subverted by unelected bureaucrats. We owe better to those entrepreneurs investing in Georgia. At the bare minimum, we owe them the confidence that our laws will not be overridden by those who cannot be held accountable in the voting booth. It is my hope that by the time you are reading this column that we have already convinced the DOR to reverse its decision. If we haven’t, real Georgians will lose their jobs, and you can be sure you’ll see my name among the top of those looking to fix this once and for all during the 2016 legislative session. If you ever have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out to me on my cell phone at 678-523-8570 or email me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You can also meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly!

Georgia is one of only three states in the nation that don’t allow craft brewers to sell you a beer while you visit their brewery.

Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or at Michael@ CaldwellForHouse.com.

Having More Retirement Accounts is Not the Same as Having More Money. When it comes to the number of retirement accounts you have, the saying “more is better” is not necessarily true. In fact, if you hold multiple accounts with various brokers, it can be difficult to keep track of your investments and to see if you’re properly diversified.* At the very least, multiple accounts usually mean multiple fees. Bringing your accounts to Edward Jones could help solve all that. Plus, one statement can make it easier to see if you’re moving toward your goals. *Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts to Edward Jones makes sense, call your local financial advisor today. Ivan A Garcia

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

Financial Advisor .

5947 Holly Springs Parkway Suite 303 Woodstock, GA 30188 770-926-0105 IRT-1435B-A

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Sequoyah Regional Library System Events Ongoing

Nov. 18

Knitting & Crocheting Group, 1-3 p.m. every Tuesday at the Rose Creek Library. Let Mrs. Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn, and be prepared to have fun. No registration or prior knowledge required.

Nov.

Rose Creek Crafters, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. every Tuesday at Rose Creek Library. Bring jewelry or other crafting supplies. Create something of your own or just watch other creative geniuses at work.

Nov. 4 & 18

Adult Coloring Group, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Adults are invited to stop by the library meeting room to relax and rediscover the joy of coloring. Supplies are provided. 770-735-2025.

Nov. 5, 12 & 19

Sit & Stitch Social, 10 a.m.-noon at the Woodstock Public Library. Enjoy the company of other creative people while you stitch on your current project. Take time to finish a work in progress. Get inspired to try something new. Meet new people and have fun!

Nov.

Book Repair estimates, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Book lovers who want to bring new life to old books or Bibles will receive free estimates on restoration. Jack Kyle, a retired book binder, will be available to explain how he can restore and rebind your cherished items. 770-735-2025.

DIY Burlap Pumpkin, 4 p.m. the Hickory Flat Library. Materials will be provided. Registration is required by calling 770-345-7565.

Nov. 9

Open Craft Night, 6-7:30 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Share your projects, tips and ideas, and enjoy the company of other crafters. Bring whatever project you’re working on, drop in, and join the group. Beginners welcome. Participants must bring their own supplies. For ages 14 and older. 770-479-3090.

Nov. 10

Author Event, 6 p.m. with author Larry Cavendar at the Ball Ground Library. The Ball Ground native will share excerpts of his first published book, “A Patchwork Quilt.” 770-735-2025.

Nov. 12

Tree Planting Workshop, 4 p.m. at the Woodstock Library. Learn about selecting, planting and caring for trees from Joshua Fuder, Agricultural and Natural Resources Agent. Call 770-926-5859 to register.

Nov. 16

Book Club, 11 a.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Discussion of “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins. New members are welcome. 770-735-2025.

Nov. 17

‘Minute To Win It’ challenge, 4 p.m. at the Hickory Flat Library for ages 9-12. Get ready for an afternoon packed with fun and challenging games based on the popular TV show. Space is limited; registration is required by calling 770-345-7565. Registration begins Nov. 4.

Chess & Chat, 1-3 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Informal chess group that meets once a month to play. Chess sets available at the adult services desk. No need to register.

Nov. 25

Career Lab will be parked at the R.T. Jones Library. The Atlanta Regional Workforce Board’s mobile lab will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for free assistance with job search, information about training opportunities and access to computer workstations. Services are available for age 16 and older.

Nov. 30

Nerd Trivia for teens, 6 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Teens and tweens in grades six and up are invited for fandom trivia, free snacks, and fun. 770-479-3090 ext. 233.

Dec. 2

Here Comes Santa, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Hickory Flat Library. Bring a camera to snap a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy crafts, refreshments and entertainment by the Avery Elementary School choir, directed by David Boggs at 6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Dec. 3

The Polar Express & Santa Visit, 6-7:45 p.m. at the Rose Creek Library. Bring your blanket and wear your best pajamas to experience the magic of Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale “The Polar Express.” Also enjoy crafts, music, refreshments and a visit from Santa. Registration begins on Nov. 19; Reservations required by calling 770-591-1491. All ages are welcome.

Dec. 7

Holiday Open House, 6-7:45 p.m. at the R.T. Jones Library. Celebrate the season and enjoy the Festival of Trees as well as crafts, refreshments, a tree lighting, storytelling and songs performed by the Hasty Elementary Chorus. All ages welcome.

www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org • RT Jones Library

116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, 770-479-3090

Bookmark Book Club, 4 p.m. at the Woodstock Library. Earn four accelerated reader points by joining this discussion about current Georgia Book Award nominee “The Fourteenth Goldfish” by Jennifer L. Holm. Registration required by calling 770-479-3090 ext. 233. For ages 9-12.

• Hickory Flat Public Library

Ceramic Demonstration, 6 p.m. at the Ball Ground Library. Back by popular demand, Helene Maloy, owner of A Piece of Time, will demonstrate ideas for creating ceramic holiday gifts. Optional: Bring $5 to paint an ornament to take with you. Registration required by calling 770-735-2025.

• Woodstock Public Library

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

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

• Rose Creek Public Library

4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491 7735 Main Street, Woodstock, 770-926-5859

• Ball Ground Public Library

435 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground, 770-735-2025

November Heralds Holiday Festivities BY LYNNE WATTS

November is the time of year when Mother Nature packs up her paintbrush and palette of sienna, ochre and scarlet to make way for Old Man Winter to arrive. Close out the last days of fall and set the mood for the upcoming season by attending some of the holiday festivities in Atlanta. Gather up the kids and head out to the Center for the Puppetry Arts to see “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” a holiday classic presented Nov. 12-Dec. 27. While you are there, be sure to stop by the museum to learn about the history of puppetry through an amazing collection of more than 2,000 puppets and posters. www.puppet.org/perform/rudolph.shtml “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” at the fabulous historic Fox Theatre is both circus and holiday spectaculars rolled into one. With more than 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 artists, adults and kids alike will be enthralled with a show that includes stunts, illusions and singers performing both holiday favorites and original music. http://foxtheatre.org/shows-and-events/ Visit the annual Winter Wonderland exhibition at Fernbank Museum, where you can enjoy two floors of festive trees and displays reflecting the diverse cultural traditions of North America, South America, Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Weekends from Nov. 29 to Dec. 21 will feature special Holly Jolly activities for the kids, including a puppet

factory hosted by the Center for Puppetry Arts. Adults can attend the Martinis and Imax evening, where they can sample small plates, sip on a yuletide toddy and view a holiday movie. www.fernbankmuseum.org/visit-fernbank/ Every little girl’s favorite character, Madeleine, from the book by Ludwig Bemelmans, is back for the sixth year at the Horizon Theatre. Join Madeleine, Miss Clavel, and Madeleine’s 12 best friends in “Madeline’s Christmas.” When all the girls come down with the flu, they are faced with the possibility of their upcoming trip home for Christmas being cancelled. This musical is a treat for the whole family. www.horizontheatre.com/plays/family-series/ Want an adult night out from the same venue? Leave the kids at home and get ready to be entertained as Horizon Theatre performs the outrageous holiday comedy, “The Santaland Diaries,” written by NPR comic genius David Sedaris. It is the tale of Crumpet, an out-of-work elf who shares his story of the life of an out-of-work Macy’s department store elf. www.horizontheatre.com/plays/the-santaland-diaries/

Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and a retired Cherokee County School District counselor. She can be reached at www.lynnewatts.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Community

Restoring a Woman’s Anatomy Inside & Out

woman’s body is never the same after having children. Who better to fix your anatomy than the doctors who not only deliver thousands of babies, but are also reconstructive surgeons? Breaking new ground with a higher level of services for the community are the physicians of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, who have delivered more than 10,000 babies since the practice opened in 1993. Subspecialty Board Certified Reconstructive Surgeons Doctors Michael Litrel, Peahen Gandhi and James Haley have achieved board certification in the subspecialty female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS, also known as urogynecology). They specialize in treating conditions women commonly experience from having children or aging, including incontinence, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction. Along with OB/GYN colleagues Dr. Britton Crigler and Dr. Kathryn Hale, the five physicians make up the only obstetricsgynecology practice in Georgia with multiple board certified pelvic reconstructive surgeons. Addressing Women’s Hidden Suffering FPMRS surgeons correct disorders to the pelvic floor, which refers to the muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that hold a woman’s bladder, rectum and female organs inside the body. “Motherhood is a tough road,” comments Dr. Litrel. “Pregnancy and labor can cause damage to a woman’s anatomy. Later on, as you age, you can have pain or bleeding, a leaky bladder, or even changes in female anatomy or appearance. These things can affect your relationship - the way you and your husband relate to each other.” Dr. Gandhi adds, “Because we’re OB/GYNs, we’re not cosmetic surgeons who concentrate only on the outward appearances. We repair interior anatomy as well. This includes problems like incontinence, pain, pelvic floor prolapse and vaginal laxity, as well as distorted labial anatomy.” Reconstructive and Cosmetic Gynecologic Surgery Many life-changing therapies can be performed in the offices of Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, including vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty and breakthrough technologies such as Thermiva. This painless office procedure uses thermal energy to rebuild tissue and tighten vaginal muscles. Dr. Haley says, “Lots of women make the mistake of believing that pain and discomfort are natural as they age. That’s not the case. Surgical techniques and the understanding of women’s 32

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

anatomy have increased tremendously in the past 20 years, making the new specialty [FPMRS] necessary.” From left, Ultrasonographer Brenda Peters, Dr. Britton Crigler, Dr. Kathryn Azelia Hale, Dr. Peahen Gandhi, Dr. James Haley, Susan Griggs, CNM, Dr. Mike Litrel. Photo by J King Images.

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists OB/GYN and UROGYNECOLOGY

Canton: 227 Riverstone Drive Woodstock: Towne Lake Overlook Medical Building 100 Stoneforest Drive, Suite 200

770-720-7733

8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 1:30-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Facebook: CherokeeWomensHealth Twitter: @atlantaobgyn A Powerhouse Team for Obstetrics Pregnant women who come to Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists will find a holistic practice with a significant depth of knowledge combined with technological advances. Each physician has the expertise to manage high-risk obstetrics. Four-dimensional ultrasound services are nationally accredited by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. Healthy pregnancies are confirmed with advanced technologies for noninvasive testing, including Nuchal Translucency or Cell Free DNA testing. Additionally, Drs. Hale and Crigler are experts at noninvasive muscle floor pelvic strengthening options. Both vegans, they build on the mind-body-spirit approach of the practice. Certified Nurse Midwife Susan Griggs rounds out this team of providers to complete the picture of a practice with total dedication to the health of their patients, before and after childbirth. Treating Patients As We Would Our Loved Ones “It’s ingrained in our practice to treat each patient as we would a family member,” says Dr. Litrel. “It’s a fact that every one of us loves our work and feels it’s our calling. It’s our privilege to always do our best, and strive to be our best—for our patients, and for this community we live in.”

Women Find Balance in Being Artists, Mothers BY REBECCA DEVANE

At some point in their lives, most people have been moved by a piece of artwork. Perhaps they were moved enough to wonder who created the art, what inspired the artist or if there was a story behind the work. There’s a unique story behind some paintings that were created for Falany and Hulse Women’s Center in Towne Lake. The project, a commission by the physicians group, was a combined effort of the members of Creative Mothers, a new art group in Towne Lake. The fact that the paintings are the result of a group effort makes each piece part of a beautiful puzzle, intricately layered with the talent and style of women that make up the diverse group. A puzzle is a fitting analogy, as these mothers seem to fit together perfectly to create moving artwork. The Creative Mothers formed through Facebook this summer, after DeAnna Headrick noticed many of her friends were in need of a pick-me-up. “I became a stay-at-home mom recently and the more I visited my friends I realized that we need something that isn’t just changing diapers. When I asked if anyone wanted to make art together I had an overwhelming response,” said DeAnna, a Canton mom with two young children. DeAnna has an art degree from Kennesaw State University and has a strong network of friends in Cobb and Cherokee counties. The group has approximately 15 core members, all artists and mothers. Some women in the group have had formal training in the arts, while others are self taught. However, art is the connective force that brought them all together and gave them

Catherine Pawiak, mom of Callie and Cas, with the paintings “Genesis of a Hue.” The abstract artwork has 15 layers of acrylic paint and textured media.

an opportunity to share their passion for creating. The goal of the group is to utilize all forms of art to create beautiful experiences that unify people. The Creative Mothers want to build a forum where all mothers have an outlet to express themselves. The members look forward to being involved in public art programs, murals and art installations for businesses in the future. Each member takes a turn managing a project. Currently, there are a half dozen new projects in the works, including a Creative Mother’s Day art show that is planned for Mother’s Day weekend in 2016. If you would like to join Creative Mothers, or keep track of the group’s progress, go to Facebook.com/thecreativemothers.

Things That Make Me Cry, Now That I’m a Mom BY CLAIRE FROST

My daughter was born last Halloween, and this year has flown by. I smiled politely and acted like I wasn’t hearing it for 1,650,598th time when someone would say, “Enjoy it. It goes so fast.” I didn’t understand exactly what they meant…and then I blinked. Now I’m putting together Captain Hook and Tiger Lily costumes to complement our little Tinkerbell for what is technically her second Halloween. How is it possible? I’m completely unable to put into words the amount of love I have for my sweet, laughing, inquisitive, strong-willed, chatty, dimpled, blue-eyed girl. She is the purest thing I know. I’m as surprised as anyone at how much I enjoy motherhood. I was unaware that lying dormant under my tough-girl exterior was a giant squishy mess of sensitive, emotional goo, ready to love and nurture a little person. Since I am unable to articulate the amount of love I have my sweet girl without crying, I thought I would share some of the things that could make me cry at any moment. • Any given normal baby milestone, like stopping breast feeding. • Not-so-normal baby milestones, like moving from Swaddlers diapers to Cruisers. • Being away from her for the longest time ever (which gets longer each time, though still hasn’t been overnight). • Commercials with a mother and child, or just a baby or a pregnant woman. • Watching my husband play with her.

• Reading stories to her that were read to me. Those are guaranteed to result in a call or text to my parents the moment I put the book down. • Going up in her clothing size. (I cried in Target when I realized that now her footie PJ’s have little stickies on the bottom so when she walks there is traction. Walking?!?) • Any time I see a kid go off to college on TV, because I know that day is coming down the tracks at the speed of a locomotive. • Any time she says “Mama” or gives me a kiss. (Tearing up just thinking about it right now.) • When she falls asleep while I’m holding her, and she nuzzles in between my neck and shoulder. (I could honestly live in those moments forever and melt.) • When she doesn’t need my help for something that she did, until now. (She recently took a spoon from me and successfully fed herself oatmeal, and then redecorated our freshly painted kitchen walls with the rest of it.) • Whenever anyone tells me I’m a good mom. continued on page 57

Claire is the editor of House of Frost, a blog juggling family, fashion, food and furnishing with a little sparkle. HouseFrost.com AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Lifestyle

Avoid Making Emotional Investment Decisions SUBMITTED BY IVAN GARCIA

What’s the biggest obstacle to your ability to invest successfully? Is it the ups and downs of the financial markets? Political events? The fact that you weren’t born rich? Actually, the chief hurdle you face is something over which you have control: your own emotions. Your emotions can lead to a variety of ill-advised investment behaviors, such as these: • Cutting losses. Declines in the financial markets can lead some investors to try to “cut their losses” by selling investments whose prices have declined. Yet when prices have dropped, it may actually be a good time to buy investments, not sell them, especially when the investments are still fundamentally sound. • Chasing performance. In the investment world, the flip side of fear is greed. Just as some investors are propelled by fear of loss, others are motivated by quick, big gains. They may pursue “hot” investments, only to be disappointed when the sizzle quickly fizzles. Instead of trying to “score” that one big winner, you may be better off spreading your investment dollars among a range of vehicles— stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit (CDs) and so on. While diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss, it may help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio. • Focusing on the short term. When the market is down, you might get somewhat upset when you view your monthly investment statements. But any individual statement is just a snapshot in time. If you were to chart your investment results over 10, 15 or 20 years, you’d see the true picture of how your portfolio is doing—and, in all likelihood, that picture would look better than a statement or two you received during a down market. In any case, don’t overreact to short-term downturns by making hasty

decisions to buy or sell. Instead, stick with a long-term strategy that’s appropriate for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. • Heading to the investment “sidelines.” Some people get so frustrated over market volatility that they throw up their hands and head to the investment “sidelines” until things calm down. And it’s certainly true that, when owning stocks, there are no guarantees; you do risk losing some, or all, of your investment. But if you jump in and out of the market to escape volatility, you may take on an even bigger risk—the risk of losing some of the growth you’ll need to reach your goals. Consider this: If you had invested $10,000 in a package of stocks mimicking the S&P 500 in December 1979, your investment would have grown to more than $426,000 by December 2013. But if you had missed just the 10 best days of the market during that time, your $10,000 would only have grown to less than $206,000, according to Ned Davis Research, a leading investment research organization. The bottom line? Staying invested over the long term can pay off. (Keep in mind, though, that the S&P 500 is an unmanaged index and isn’t meant to depict an actual investment. Also, as you’ve no doubt heard, past performance is not a guarantee of future results.) Our emotions are useful in guiding us through many aspects of our lives, but when you invest, you’re better off using your head and not your heart.

Financial advisor Ivan Garcia, a Woodstock area resident for 17 years, joined Edward Jones in 2007. Ivan can be reached at 770-926-0105 or ivan.garcia@edwardjones.com.

The Top 4 Reverse Mortgage Myths BY DAN HULTQUIST

The federally insured reverse mortgage program is highly misunderstood. Since questions come into my office daily, I like to keep a running list of misconceptions to easily distribute. This article focuses on the top four myths that come across my desk: MYTH: Reverse mortgages are only for the desperate. TRUTH: Reverse mortgages can help those who are house rich, cash poor and need money now. However, there are multiple financial planning options for the wealthy. I was recently asked to attend an event for CPAs to explain why their affluent clients are getting reverse mortgages. When successful doctors, lawyers and financial advisors are getting them, it is generally not because of a desperate need for cash. MYTH: Reverse mortgages are expensive. TRUTH: They CAN be expensive if used as a shortterm cash-out refinance. When used properly, however, for homeowners who want to stay in their homes, they can be very inexpensive. This is because reverse mortgages were designed to be long-term financial planning solutions. Some financial advisors have even found ways to offset any upfront closing costs with tax savings in the first year alone. MYTH: You can owe more than the value of your home. TRUTH: Many people fear that their estate will be 34

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

“underwater” when they sell it, or when they die. Fortunately, reverse mortgages include a “non-recourse clause” ensuring that homeowners will never owe more than the value of the home at the time of sale. In fact, the heirs are protected by this feature as well. Stated differently, there is no recourse for the lender to pursue the homeowner (or the homeowner’s heirs) for additional funds if a home sells for less than its full loan balance. MYTH: The bank gets your home. TRUTH: The federally insured reverse mortgage program has been around for 27 years, and homeowners have NEVER relinquished ownership of their homes at closing or because of their death. Yet, this continues to be the No. 1 misconception because homeowners have historically drawn large amounts of money upfront. If there is no equity left upon the death of the last borrower, the heirs would simply sign over the deed. Now, homeowners are leaving more funds in their available line of credit. Nevertheless, the bank never holds title to the home. Dan Hultquist is a certified reverse mortgage professional and originator. He speaks nationally on reverse mortgages, and wrote “Understanding Reverse.” 404-992-7798. www.understandingreverse.com.

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Doug. He listens well and sits and snuggles with you. He does not jump on you. He is really gentle and calm for a big dog. He is a pointer mix and about 3 years old. At the moment there are four adult cats at the shelter and quite a lot of kittens. This cat’s name is Tippi. She is gray and white and is 7 years old. She is a domestic short-haired mix. Tippi is big and lazy. She winds herself up into a ball and she is very soft and snuggly. Anagrace and Davis Watson used their birthday money to buy cat and dog food for Rob’s Rescues, which I took to the shelter.

Rob’s Rescues

now has a Facebook page!

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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

It’s a New Season with New Christmas Décor at Pineapple

Park

very November for the past five years, Pineapple Park owner Pacita Wilson and her staff spend countless hours preparing the home décor store for a Christmas open house. They’ve closed their doors to the public the day before the event so they can decorate with no distractions. This year, Pacita has built in a few extra days of preparation for what she says will be the best open house to date. The extra time will be necessary to rearrange the store to accommodate an assortment of trees, decorations and a very unique prop that she will position front and center for guests to see the minute they walk in. She guarantees this surprise will help transform the store into a vintage, old-world Christmas wonderland. “I know I say it every year, but I feel this year is honestly the best year ever,” says Pacita, who declares she didn’t buy anything “that didn’t ooze greatness for me. I want my guests to feel what they felt when they were children, and be giddy with excitement. Christmas has always been my favorite season and I love being able to create that magical feeling.” This year she will offer Thursday and Saturday evening classes for guests who want to emulate the tree and table decorations they admire. Pacita enjoys helping people bring those special Christmas touches into their homes. In and out of the holiday season, Pineapple Park is a mecca of home designs filled with sofas and chandeliers, dining tables, chairs, desks, lamps and other accessories. While her décor throughout the year uses a neutral palette, the store will pop with plenty of red accents through the Christmas season. New Christmas décor items debuting this year include chalkboard pieces—from ornaments to placemats—that can be personalized. A new Christmas tree line features all LED lights with different lighting options at great price points. While it’s easy to get caught up in the tinsel and lights, Pacita makes certain she keeps her heart where it’s supposed to be. “We are careful not to lose sight of the real reason for the season. We sell a lot of true Christmas decor items, like nativity scenes.”

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Photo credit: © Joel Taylor - Taylored Imagery 2015

In the spirit of giving, Pacita considers the open house a way to give back to the community. It’s a natural extension of the home-awayfrom-home feel she has established in her downtown Woodstock store. “We have a very personable store. We love to meet people, introduce ourselves, talk to them and know them by name. The clients we do business with become like our second family and we love that,” says Pacita. Many shoppers will visit the store weekly for their “Pineapple Park fix,” but they may purchase something only a couple times a year. And that’s okay with the owner, who says they are welcome to visit anytime. In 2010, Pacita and husband Ken opened Pineapple Park in downtown Woodstock after moving from Florida, where she operated a furniture showroom and several warehouses. She has been in the design business for more than 20 years, a tenure that allows her to offer merchandise from vendors that can’t be found in other local stores. Interior and exterior decorating services are available, ranging from outdoor furniture and landscaping to floor-to-ceiling design inside the home. “We cover it all, from A to Z, in the world of interior décor,” said

Pacita. “We do the consulting and handle the installation of everything from window treatments to flooring, chandeliers and wallpaper.” Pacita and her crew also travel to help decorate second homes or primary residences. Have truck, will travel, is her motto. Some of her design trips have taken her to North Carolina, West Palm Beach and Rosemary Beach in Florida, and California. If she’s asked to decorate a home in Georgia, she guarantees to start and finish in one day. Pineapple Park is more than a showcase for home design; everything inside the store is for sale. “Our store can bring instant gratification because if it’s on the floor and there’s not a sold tag on it, you can purchase it and we can have it delivered to you right away.” One of Pacita’s favorite services is called Remix, a sort-of extreme makeover. “We come in first thing in the morning, remix your space and call you 30 minutes before we finish so you can come and see what we’ve done,” she said. There’s a flat fee for this service, which can involve using your own possessions without additional purchases or bringing in a few new items for something different.

Christmas Open House 10 a.m.-5 p.m. November 14 The store will be closed in preparation from Wednesday, Nov. 11, until 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14.

Pineapple Park • 240 Chambers St. Woodstock 30188 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday 678-494-8494 • www.pineapplepark.com Facebook: Look for daily updates at Pineapple Park Instagram: Follow us at pinepapple_park

TOWNELAKER || November November 2015 2015 AROUND WOODSTOCK

Lifestyle

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Century House Tavern Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + 125 E Main St. American 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. Brunch 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican no $ $-$$ open Full bar yes 9550 Main Street 678-498-8243 Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar limited 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. Tea room 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s Italian no $$ $$$ closed Full bar yes 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 38

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Elm Street:

Making it Palatable - The Engagement Factor BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

When I was in college (go ‘Noles!), I decided to start a nonprofit theatre company. While I had many reasons for doing this, I was able to hone the skills I was learning in lectures, and apply them outside of the classroom. I learned a lot, but one of the passions I discovered was that I didn’t want shows to be ephemeral, particularly to guests who didn’t visit the theatre that often. Now, you might think that connecting with people who have never been to a theatre or art event before would require making it easy to comprehend, bite-sized and entertaining; in other words, make a show to be palatable. You wouldn’t be wrong with this thought; initially, I believed the same thing. My team and I set out to do a lot of research and perform an IMMENSE amount of trial and error (mostly error) to figure out how to make a performance, a piece of artwork or art in general, palatable to those who didn’t frequent the arts world. As you can imagine, it was quite a challenge, and although there isn’t a code, we did discover a few things. The most important discovery we made was that palatability does not require keeping things on a surface level for easy comprehension and/or connection. The REAL challenge was to add flavor and depth to really enthrall those who don’t want to be there. That something extra was engagement: going the extra mile to meet people, regardless of their interest, and bringing them into the story being told. Extra spectacle, or changing the story, actually diluted or took away flavor. Like most theatres, there are several departments: lights, sound, costumes, etc. However, we now have a new addition in every show we do: Engagement. For “Ghost Tales & Trails,” we turned downtown Woodstock into a giant Clue board game. For “Flat Stanley” later this month, we will have a TON of kindergarten classes coming to learn about Stanley’s adventures before we open the show to the public. We aren’t diluting these stories to make them palatable...we are enhancing them to create a better flavor.

The most important discovery we made was that palatability does not require keeping things on a surface level for easy comprehension and/or connection.

CITY CENTER DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

NOVEMBER 13-15 FRI AT 7:30PM SAT/SUN AT 2:00PM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SPRING CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, works as the operations director for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Lifestyle

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community. Everyday Angels would like to share the story of Brenda Carlile, 45, who is a wife, mom of four, and one of the godliest women you will ever meet. Prior to early August of this year, life was simply perfect for Brenda. She was blessed with an amazing husband, four healthy children (ages 19, 12, 6 and 3) and she spent her days joyfully homeschooling her kids. Brenda was also teaching sewing for Timothy Ministries, a homeschool support ministry. On July 30, Brenda and her two younger children headed to Waycross, Ga., to spend her birthday weekend with her parents; her husband Chris had to work. The night before she left, Brenda woke up to abdominal pain and bloating. “I had a few similar episodes over the past few months and I thought it was simply a foodrelated reaction to what I had eaten the night before,” said Brenda. “We loaded our car and began the drive despite my pain. However, the pain didn’t subside, and 34 hours later, my husband insisted that I go to the emergency room. “ER immediately performed a CT scan and sonogram of my abdomen,” she continued. “Tests revealed a 9 cm solid mass right above my left kidney, with inflamed lymph nodes surrounding it. Emergency room doctors suggested that I see an oncologist on Monday. I made the decision to [keep my plans to visit] with my parents and extended family that long birthday weekend, as we celebrated through lots of prayer! Once we returned home to Canton, the roller coaster ride began.” Brenda’s faith is evident in this Facebook post from Sept. 30: “Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Had a nice visit with Dr. A this morning, and for once, all test results were back, and final! He gave me all the good news first - it’s large B cell, fairly common lymphoma, with all the affected lymph nodes contained in one area. Then, the not-so-good report: the bone marrow biopsy came back positive so I’m stage 4 because of that, and it’s a little more difficult to get into remission. The battle begins at 8 a.m. tomorrow, with treatments every three weeks. Six treatments scheduled and then all the testing to see the results. This road is only unknown to us, but my faithful God has already traveled it - and He will hold my hand the entire journey - of this I 40

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

have no doubt. He knows what the future holds, and He doesn’t want us to worry or be anxious, but only to trust Him. So I will do that. But I may have a big ole cry first.” Seven years ago, Chris lost his concrete business during the economic downturn. Financial struggles are nothing new for the Carlile family. Chris is now working for Quick Response Force, which specializes in home restoration and water damage repair. He has always worked hard for his family, but health insurance had become a luxury that they simply could not afford over the past few years. “We will likely be on a payment plan for the rest of our lives,” Brenda said. “We may not have a lot of money but we have a lot of love.” Brenda’s physical battle began recently, and her faith is stronger than ever. “Since the beginning, our amazing friends, family and church family has been a great source of love, comfort and food,” she said. Despite her bad days, Brenda’s strong faith and family encourage her. “Please pray that God would be glorified with my response throughout this trial,” she said. “So, we wait….but I’ve got a comfortable spot Under His Wings!” May we all have the strength, courage and faith of Brenda Carlile. Please keep her and her family in your daily prayers. See the details below if you would like to make a donation. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

11-15 AroundWoodstock.indd 41

10/23/2015 4:06:18 PM

Lifestyle

Market Stays Strong After Busy Season SUBMITTED BY THE PREMIER GROUP

The height of the busy season for residential real estate may be over, but the local market is still going strong. Here are some insights into single-family detached home sales in both Woodstock and Cherokee County during September 2015.

In Woodstock, the number of homes listed dropped from 196 in August to 181, while Cherokee County saw a decrease from 552 to 504. Homes under contract decreased from 162 to 135 for Woodstock and 349 to 336 for the county, while the number of homes sold decreased from 175 to 142 and from 413 to 332, respectively.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

These decreases are typical for the post-summer slowdown in real estate activity as many families try to settle in a new home before the school year starts. However, both Woodstock and Cherokee County were still quite active during the month. The number of days a house spent on the market increased in Woodstock from 36 to 46, while Cherokee County saw a smaller increase from 47 to 49. The average sales price to list price ratio increased in Woodstock from 97 percent to 98 percent. That matches Cherokee County’s ratio, which held steady from month to month. And finally, Woodstock’s average sales price increased from $243,094 to $247,239, while Cherokee County’s dropped slightly from $244,959 to $241,803. All in all, the local real estate market continues to thrive in Woodstock and Cherokee County thanks to the area’s high quality of life in everything from public schools to parks. With a mix of walkable, new-construction developments, established swim/tennis communities and other highly attractive housing options available, the real estate market is only expected to grow here in Woodstock, Towne Lake and Cherokee County.

Becoming an Actor Step 4: Building a Résumé BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

It isn’t easy to get an agent without quality credits on your résumé, so let’s talk about how to build your résumé without having an agent. Even if you hire an agent, you’ll need to know how to find and/or create your own work, to set up habits you’ll always keep. Theatre training is the easiest credit to obtain. There are community Local Theater Options theatres in • Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, www.elmstreetarts.org just about 8534 Main St., Woodstock, 678-494-4251 • Cherokee Theatre Company, www.cherokeetheatre.org every city in Performances are held at the Canton Historic Theatre, America where 171 East Main St. 770-591-0282 aspiring actors • STARS Community Drama http://stars-community-drama.webnode.com can hone tagotte9394@aol.com their skills. • Broadway Bound Productions, Community www.broadwayboundproductionsinc.com. 770-720-2698 theatres offer • Atlanta Theatre Collective a well-rounded www.atlantatheatrecollective.com education, and Performances at the Canton Theatre. they typically hold open auditions...anyone can audition for any show, regardless of experience. In addition to adding credits to your résumé, theatre work will give you a chance to practice the art of acting. This is especially helpful if you cannot afford training. Theatre roles are much

more intensive than film and television roles, and performing in plays can give you a wonderful education in how to craft a character. While theatre is important for a strong résumé, you also need to add some television and film experience to your list of credits. It is likely you won’t be able to score an audition for bigbudget projects without an agent, but don’t let that discourage you. Instead, work on finding independent projects; the best way to find such auditions is through acting groups on Facebook and ActorsAccess.com. Stay away from Craigslist, since many projects found there are not safe or of good quality. You may hope to get big auditions immediately, but remember that small projects are great practice for the bigger stuff. You do not want to be in front of major casting directors until you’re ready. If you want to make a career as an extra, you can find just about all the work you want in and around Atlanta. However, if you want speaking roles, treat your work as an extra only as continued on page 57

Jessica Leigh Smith lives in Cherokee County with her family and is an actress and producer. JessicaLeighSmith.com and Facebook.com/NotFinishedInc.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Lifestyle

My Favorite Thanksgiving Hour BY ANN LITREL

As young girls, my sister Jane and I headed outside on sunny days to explore, packing a sandwich and a thermos of Kool-Aid. Out the back gate, through the blackberry brambles and down to the little river separating our subdivision from the farm next door, we began our adventures. Our crossing was often blocked by cows, huge and scary-looking, standing in the shallows. Most times we summoned up the courage to skirt around them. The cows never seemed to mind two small girls traipsing up the dirt road into their pasture. The farm seemed labyrinthine, magical. We found small fenced fields, forgotten sheds, islands of forests and winding streams, huge old oaks bumpy with lichen. Everything we found, we named. We drew maps and made up stories - “Wizard’s Ring,” “Grasshopper’s Bouncing Field,” “Witches’ Glen.” We wove the magic that children do, hidden from the eyes of grownups. Now Jane lives far away, and our time together is measured not in seasons or years, but in hours. Yet even an hour can be magical. Jane comes to visit with her family every other Thanksgiving; when the pies are baked, the cranberry salsa and cornbread dressing is prepped and the turkey is in the oven, it’s time, once again, for my sister and me to explore. We don’t have to go far; the little strip of “meadow” in my small back yard is enough. I add a few seedlings every year - wild sunflowers, Joe-Pye weed, coneflower, bee balm 44

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

– so this little island of wilderness is ever-changing. In late summer evenings when the setting sun glows, I sit on my Adirondack chair under a tree with a glass of wine and watch the butterflies feeding in the tall meadow flowers. Goldfinches flit from seed head to seed head, sampling the bits they love. By November, Jane and I find the garden still lovely, as it browns for its winter sleep. We gather the seed heads that stand like sculptures among the grasses, clothed in their dusky robes of gold, rust and purple. We harvest bright-red blueberry leaves, fluffy heads of milkweed blossoms, and upright fronds of Indian grass. The walk back to the kitchen yields the evergreens holly, ivy, ferns. We arrange these priceless treasures with grocery store flowers in two tall vases for the Thanksgiving table. This hour spent with my sister is perhaps my favorite of Thanksgiving - rediscovering the secret magic of childhood.

Ann with her sister Jane.

Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached in her studio Ann Litrel Art in downtown Woodstock, or at Ann@annlitrel.com.

INTERESTED IN A Senior Sense

Thanksgiving Time BY DELIA HALVERSON

With passing years, we often lose sight of the original meaning of a holiday. The Thanksgiving season has two strikes against it. The first is the expansion of the Christmas season. It seems more and more Christmas activities are pushing into the Thanksgiving season. When I was a child, the stores shocked us by displaying Christmas merchandise around the first of December. Now, Santa and the products of his workshop fight with Halloween masks and skeletons for space on the shelves. In fact, on Sept. 30 I saw Christmas trees in the aisles at a local wholesale club! Personally, I do enjoy a three to four-week Christmas season. It only comes once a year. But would an earlier Thanksgiving offer more opportunity for real thankfulness? After all, thankfulness is what it’s all about. Perhaps we could incorporate our honor of veterans into the day and also offer thanks for peace in our nation. The second strike against Thanksgiving is the time lapse between the actual close of harvest and the date. Growing up in Florida, I never knew the true feeling of harvest time; it seemed to me that Thanksgiving was just an arbitrary date because harvest occurred year round. In fact, the height of the pickling season came in early June, and by mid-July, the gardeners gave up, unless they replanted. When I lived in the Dakotas, I enjoyed a true harvest. Like a squirrel preparing for winter, I pickled, canned and froze every tidbit our laboring garden produced. I even suffered the thorns of the buffalo berry bush for its translucent red-pink berries to make jelly. At the end of all that work and turmoil, I truly felt thankful. Then, I had to wait six weeks for my Thanksgiving dinner. In the Dakotas, we often picked the green tomatoes before frost and wrapped them in newspaper to ripen them. One year I tried to keep a few tomatoes in the refrigerator for Thanksgiving Day, so that I could enjoy something fresh from the harvest. Today, everything for a Thanksgiving dinner comes directly from the grocery store. Shouldn’t Thanksgiving be more than planning a big dinner and bursting at the seams while we watch football? I do appreciate the opportunity to get together as a family, but we seldom really think about just what we are thankful for. It becomes rather matter-of-fact. Maybe this year we will ask everyone at the table to mention at least one thing they are thankful for before the meal.

ReveRse MoRtgage? Call Dan at 404.992.7798 to discuss

whether a Reverse Mortgage is right for you. • Never make a monthly mortgage payment again* • Access your home’s equity • Receive a lump sum payment, guaranteed monthly

payment, or line of credit — whichever you prefer** • You maintain home ownership and title • Does not affect Social Security or Medicare * Homeowner must continue to pay insurance,

HOA, property tax, maintain home and live in home as primary residence. ** Loan advances from a reverse mortgage

are generally not considered taxable income. This is not intended to be tax advice, please consult a tax advisor.

understandingreverse.com

Dan Hultquist • GA-#28069 | Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #28678 NMLS#2975

NMLS #203029 | NMLS #1243710 • 5828 Wembley Drive • Douglasville, GA 30135

Delia writes books and leads workshops internationally. She and her husband settled in Woodstock after living in eight states. Their children and grandchildren live nearby. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

LOVELOUD 2015 Members of First Baptist Church Woodstock recently completed the threeday local mission effort called LoveLOUD, which has the vision of sharing the love of Christ while serving the community. Here are some highlights. - More than 3,000 people served in 100-plus projects. - More than $1.2 million invested in this community. - 300 people received free dental care. - Lunch served to Woodstock public servants. - More than 1,800 food boxes distributed, with 1,000 delivered to refugees in Clarkston, Ga. along with homemade fleece blankets and dolls. - 250 single moms and widows served with free haircuts, auto repair/detailing, vet clinic, wills and legal advice. - Free block party offered to local community on Sunday (inflatables, games, magicians, giveaways, face painting, etc.). - Weekend camp for foster kids. - Maintenance and landscaping for local elementary schools. - Fun day for children with special needs. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH WOODSTOCK

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

An Attitude of Gratitude BY THE REV. BRETT CAMPBELL

In Luke 17:11-19 of the Bible, we find an account of 10 lepers who went to Jesus asking to be healed. Jesus instructed them to go and show themselves to the priest. Along the way, all 10 of them were suddenly and miraculously healed. Imagine the joy they must have experienced once they realized what had happened. Interestingly, only one of them returned to Jesus to say thank you. I don’t like to admit it, but I am more often like those nine lepers than the one. How about you? Why do we forget to express gratitude to those who do us good? Perhaps we don’t see it as a big deal, or we think the person who helped us won’t care either way. If someone shows care for us only for recognition, then he or she is disingenuous. Thanking that person might encourage his or her pride, we tell ourselves. Finally, busyness has a way of blinding us to the many kindnesses we experience from others every day. A lack of thankfulness can suggest an attitude of entitlement. We don’t think of saying thank you because we expect to be treated a certain way and we expect people to do certain things for us. What we may not realize is that a lack of gratitude has an isolating effect. Thankfulness unexpressed has an eroding effect on community. Later this month, most of us will celebrate a uniquely

American holiday called Thanksgiving. Originally Thanksgiving was a feast held to express gratefulness to the indigenous people who helped the early pilgrims survive in their new homeland. This bountiful celebration brought together two groups of people who couldn’t have been more different. As our friends and family gather around the table later this month we will recall various things we are thankful for. Why don’t we start something new this holiday? Rather than let thankfulness be put away with the leftovers, let’s keep the thanksgiving spirit throughout the year. With an attitude of gratitude, we will notice the cashier who smiles as he or she rings up our groceries. We will be grateful for the salesperson who patiently works with us as we try on 20 more outfits. Imagine the effect on our local community when we commit to regularly expressing our gratitude and thankfulness to those around us.

Brett is associate pastor at Sovereign Grace Church in Woodstock. The Philadelphia transplant moved to Cherokee County with his family in 2011. bcamp@sgcatlanta.org.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Lifestyle

A HEAD START ON THE

Holidays

BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

November might be my favorite month of the year. By this time, the kids have found their groove at school, the dog days of summer are far behind us, and we’re just beginning to think about the upcoming holiday season. It’s not quite here, which means we’re not knee-deep in the pit of crazy…yet. While you’ve still got time to catch your breath, I wanted to introduce you to a few of my favorite new pieces for entertaining this season.

Every home needs a bar cart, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. I love Target’s Threshold line for the home. In addition to this handy bar cart for just $129.99, you can get everything you need to stock it (sans the hard liquor) at Target, too. The simple, gold lines will complement any decor and can carry you through the new year in style. Target, off I-575 at Exits 7 and 19.

Gold and white is an elegant color combination that mixes well with red and green, and I see this rustic burlap everywhere these days. One of my favorite places to go for unique pieces that are both durable and beautiful is Willow in the Canton Marketplace shopping center. This gold and white serving platter and the coordinating mugs have me yearning for brunch with friends. Don’t forget your hostess. These would also make a stunning gift. Platter and serving spoon $40.95, mugs $16.95 each. Willows Gift Shoppe, 2022 Cumming Highway, Canton.

Looking for something special to serve the family during the holidays? When I found out that a pasta called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue actually exists, I couldn’t resist featuring it here. The pasta is festive and colorful. Cook it to al dente perfection — with just the right amount of bite — and, like me, you’ll be giggling under your breath with every mouthful. $13.50, Leaning Ladder.

4. These salts, with their fancy names and intriguing

4 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

suggested uses, caught my eye last weekend. If used liberally, I wouldn’t be surprised if more than one guest asks you to share your recipe’s secret ingredient. You can smile coyly, wink, and say, “Ahh...it’s just a sprinkle of Santa Salt.” In addition to the products you see here, I also found others, called “Magic Unicorn” and “Friends Forever.” How fun is that? $11 for a sample pack of five, 105 E. Main St., Woodstock, Leaning Ladder.

Health & Wellness

Please Pass the Stuffing BY DR. JAN HENRIQUES

“Dad, can you carve the turkey?” “Mom, please pass the gravy.” “Did you see that catch?” “Grandpa, I love you.” These are just a few snippets of conversation that can take place at a family gathering for Thanksgiving. Some people feel out of the loop in regards to what is being said around the family table. Some just pretend to hear and sit back and let the conversations happen around them. Others avoid these situations because they feel left out. Withdrawing from social situations is very common for people with untreated hearing loss. Whether you are struggling with work meetings, conversation around the card table or family occasions, hearing is an integral part of communication. According to the Better Hearing Institute, addressing hearing loss can help better maintain vitality in life by nurturing relationships and social connections. Studies reflect that the use of modern hearing aids not only helps people with their overall ability to communicate, but also has a positive effect on their relationships and participation in group activities. Improved hearing can often keep employees in the workforce longer, since untreated hearing loss can affect job performance. Hearing loss treatments can also protect cognitive function and aid in keeping the blues away. A 2014 study

found that hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults of all ages, particularly 18-69. A study from the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University found that hearing aids may slow cognitive decline tied to hearing loss. Earlier studies have linked hearing loss to dementia. If you suspect hearing loss, your first step is to have your hearing tested by a licensed audiologist. Don’t miss hearing “I love you” during the holidays, along with all the other important sounds of life.

Jan Henriques, Au.D. a board certified audiologist and lead provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock, has been practicing since 1985. www.YourHearingLink.com.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Health & Wellness

Smile! It Increases Your Face Value BY DR. SCOTT R. HARDEN

Most people become aware of their appearance in their teenage years. They are more self-aware because they want to be accepted by their friends, impress other people they might date and generally feel confident about themselves. They become concerned about anything that improves their looks. Boys start lifting weights and girls learn about hair and makeup. During this stage of self-reflection, many teenagers get braces to straighten their teeth. This is not their favorite idea and cramps their style, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a coming-of-age ritual they tolerate on the road to straighter and healthier teeth and better looks. Overall, people start caring about their appearance as teenagers and they never stop throughout their entire life. A very important part of looking good is wearing a smile you like and feel confident about. A bright, attractive smile generates a stunning first impression. Without uttering a single word, your smile can convey confidence, optimism and a friendly personality. Aside from the physical effects of your smile, your smile also provides major psychological and emotional influences on your personality. If you are self-conscious and unhappy about the appearance of your smile, it can create a barrier and affect how others perceive you, making you appear timid, hesitant, removed, unhappy or even angry. An inadequate smile may create feelings of unattractiveness and insecurity.

Fortunately, advances in cosmetic dentistry allow people to benefit from smile makeovers that involve facial esthetics, gingival esthetics, microesthetics and macroesthetics. The physician will use photographic tools to analyze facial muscles, lips, gum tissue, teeth color and texture, function, tooth proportion, midlines and teeth angulaton. A smile makeover is a personalized process that involves review of models, photographs and a powerful pre-smile wax up that demonstrates a 3-D smile result in advance. I had the privilege recently of performing a smile makeover for a woman in her 70s who was getting remarried. It was an amazing experience to participate in her desire to look good. If you are among the lucky people born with a beautiful smile, consider yourself blessed. If your smile falls short of your expectations, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to know there is a solution that can provide you with the attractive smile you desire. A smile makeover can create a feeling of being younger, more attractive and confident in your everyday lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;personally and professionally.

Dr. Scott Harden, a dentist at Fountain View Family Dentistry, has served Woodstock for more than 21 years. 770-926-0000. www.FountainViewSmiles.com.

Leukemia: Prompt diagnosis and expert care BY LESLIE KERNS

A leukemia diagnosis can cause fear and uncertainty, and alter the lives of both the patient and family members. Leukemia is a progressive cancer in which the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs produce increased numbers of immature or abnormal cells. This diagnosis can bring profound changes, and treating leukemia is complex and demanding. People diagnosed with acute leukemia can feel well one moment and face a serious diagnosis requiring immediate intervention in the next. Someone is diagnosed with a form of blood cancer every four minutes, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. In 2015, there will be 54,270 newly diagnosed cases of leukemia in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Changes in red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are what cause leukemia symptoms, which can include fatigue, shortness of breath, excessive bruising and bleeding, fever and headache. The only way to diagnosis leukemia is through a careful, prompt and comprehensive evaluation. Often this requires admission to a hospital and evaluation by an oncologist. The 50

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

accurate diagnosis of leukemia is critical. Current testing methods to obtain this diagnosis can be complex and timing is critical. Much of the testing done today helps predict the course of treatment that each individual patient needs to achieve the best outcomes. Oncologists and hematologists who specialize in the treatment of patients with leukemia will often have access to these specialized tests. Treatment for acute leukemia typically requires an initial admission to a hospital that can support the unique needs of leukemia patients. Support services such as nursing, blood banks, nutritionists, therapists and navigators help patients optimize their journey through treatment. Although the journey is complex and overwhelming, prompt diagnosis, focused treatment and specialized support can help patients survive.

Leslie Kerns is the director of the Leukemia Program at Northside Hospital. The leukemia program provides patients with the exceptional quality care needed to treat their blood-related malignancy. Visit www.northside.com/leukemia for more information.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

School & Sports

A Special Day in Woodstock More than 1,000 people, including athletes, staff and student volunteers, attended the Cherokee County School District’s Special Olympics Awareness Games on a recent October day. River Ridge High School hosted the event, which included participants from almost every elementary, middle and high school in the county. The athletes competed in various track and field events, along with other fun activities, to promote

Bascomb student Aidan Carr pushes for the finish line with support from volunteer Drew Hines.

Matthew Taylor of Cherokee High participates in the bean bag toss.

the year-round Special Olympics program. The games opened with a parade of athletes, presentation of the colors by River Ridge JROTC, the Special Olympics oath, the national anthem, and a special song performed by a group of athletes. The annual event is coordinated through the county’s office of educational programs, and organized by adaptive physical education teachers Dave Martinez and Amy Aenchbacher and assisted by Jennifer Merges.

Event Co-Coordinator Dave Martinez welcomes the crowd, as Master of Ceremonies Anton Zellman looks on.

Dave Martinez assists Etowah HS student Gabby Allen at the end of the torch relay.

School board chair Kyla Cromer, left, and fellow board members John Harmon and Kelly Poole watch the parade of athletes. 52

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Woodstock High students, from left, Manolo Mejia, Jeremiah Moore, Ana Lisa Lopez and Kimmy Dominguez, prepare to sing for the opening ceremonies.

Andy Meredith of Woodstock High and Mitch Dillon from Cherokee High.

Hanna Graves, left, and Elizabeth Botsford with Jacob Donley on the winner’s podium.

More than 200 River Ridge High School students volunteered at the event, which the school hosted in its stadium.

Avery Elementary student Hudson Scheck, left, prepares for his race with Friends Club volunteer Abbey Carver.

Mary Jo Boyer helps Savannah Donley cross the finish line.

Matthew Taylor expresses his excitement after completing the oath and is congratulated by Sheryl Gould, left.

Sequoyah High student Iain Anderson knocks the ball off the tee in a field event.

River Ridge High student Matthew Helton sprints during his leg of the torch run.

Viviana Cristobal of Cherokee High takes her turn at the ball toss.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

School & Sports

RIVER RIDGE Homecoming

Dominique Roth escorted by her father, Joshua.

Morgan Stuart and Justin Mason

Lexi Fairchild and her father Charlie.

Morgan Bone, Queen and Tim Johnson, King. 54

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Dominique Roth, Haley Crites and Alexis Hinden

From left: Tim Johnson, Lilli Mansell, Emily Pesch, Grayson Chumley, Morgan Bone, Lexi Fairchild,Dylan Pape, Katie Popp, Lenor Nickell, Noah Brague, Courtney Wimpey, Alexis Hinden and Jake Casillas.

From left: Parris Collins, Paige Morrison, Marcus Spears, Sophie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare, Pierce Livesay, Taylor Auringer.

WOODSTOCK Homecoming

Seniors Blake Heyer and Emma Dixon.

Michaela Thomas and Zack Wallace.

ROTC prepares to present the homecoming court.

Madison Reeg with dad, Michael.

Joe Burnett, Michael Gustafson, Julia Tulley, Blake Ventura.

Seniors Savannah Krapf, Olivia Harrison, Alex Shugart and Danielle Rubin.

Kelley Shareef with dad, Dave.

Jordie St. Pierre and Abir Sharma.

Sam Gill, Ally Bullock, Isaac Condrey, Joey Felder, Makayla Powell.

Alyssa Moffitt with her dad, Chad.

Taylor Savors and dad, Zachary.

Beta club members participated in the parade.

Elizabeth (Lizzie) Beatty, Queen and Jackson Beasley, King AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

School & Sports

School Receives Grant from Farm Bureau

Cherokee Charter Academy received a $500 grant from the Cherokee County Farm Bureau for the study of hydroponics. Curriculum resource teacher Kara Reeder says, “The hydroponics project will integrate across the curriculum and give students the opportunity to investigate soil-less farming. We see this project as a natural extension and application of our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) principles to agriculture. The ability to grow food without soil, sample some of this food and give back to the community is a lesson that can influence agricultural development and production for the next generation of farmers. Our goal is to encourage our students to make a difference in the community while bringing food to local tables.”

From left, front row: Seventh-graders Gabrielle Meece, Kaitlyn Gower, Zach Fletcher, Jimmy Bouban and Jourdyn Crowl. Second row: Grace Hart, Parker Gregg, Boston Forbes, Demetrius McCants, Mackenzie Lang and Lillian Hebert. Back row: Teacher Kara Reeder, Principal Dr. Scott O’Prey, students Madelynn Howe, Jackson Hamilton, and Mackenzie Begley, parent volunteer Daniel Hebert and the Farm Bureau’s Shirley Pahl.

International Walk to School Day

Front row, from left: Camden Presley, Camryn Goins, Temi Adekunle, Alex Franklin, Miranda Neidhammer, Thao Ngo, Alex Hartwig and Justin Mason. Back row: Jordan Mason, Russell Smith, Brian Biddiscombe, Max Miller, Brian Oktovec, Allie Robbins, counselor Jeff Bennett, Grason Chumley and Justinn Mason.

School Wins Presidential Commendation

Woodstock Elementary School recently celebrated International Walk to School Day, with 183 students participating. The event was supported by parents, the Cherokee County School District Police Department, Woodstock Police and Fire departments and Woodstock High School’s football team. The football players welcomed the students who walked to school, cheered them on and passed out “Walk to School” armbands and stickers.

The River Ridge High School Crusading Knights service organization recently received a commendation from President Barack Obama for its efforts in completing more than 10,000 hours of school-sponsored and organized community service activities. Along with the letter of recognition, the school received a gold medal to put on display. The organization is sponsored by counselor Jeff Bennett.

Volleyball Team Wins Second Place

Cherokee Christian High School JV volleyball team recently won second place at the inaugural Cherokee Christian Invitational Tournament.

Front row, from left: Emily Faulkenberry, Chelsey DeChandt and Lauren Meder. Back row: Grace Aste, Amber Murphey, Coach Alex Teate, Jenna Powell, Rebecca Horne, Jolie Cazenave, Megan Costolo and Elizabeth Carlile. 56

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Bingo Supports Marching Band The Woodstock High School Marching Wolverines will hold their annual bingo night from 6 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 6. There will be a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, bingo prizes, food, drinks and a bake sale. Everyone who attends will receive a ticket for the door prize drawings. All proceeds from the event will be used by the Woodstock Wolverines Band Boosters to provide funding for the marching band. Contact Thelma Woodburn at woodburnjm@aol.com or 770-516-6395.

Woodstock High School football players Ethan Chamberlin (88), right, and, from left, Trent Paschal (76), Corey Long (35) and Liam Byrne (2) cheer on elementary school students as they walk to school.

Students Wins Habitat for Humanity Award

River Ridge High School students Dominique Miller, Max Miller and Russell Smith recently accepted a Habitat for Humanity Award on behalf of the school in recognition of their extensive involvement in a project to build a Habitat house in the From left: Max Miller, counselor Jeff Woodstock Bennett, Dominique Miller and Russell Smith. area.

PTA School of Excellence

Hickory Flat Elementary School PTA was recently recognized by the national PTA as a National PTA School of Excellence for its significant progress to welcome and empower families to support student success and school improvements during the 2014-15 school year.

From left: Susan Moon, Holly Shippy, Ted McRobie, Megan Kremer, Principal Whitney Nolan, Michele O’Brien, Abby Mack and Georgia PTA President Lisa-Marie Haygood

Wizard of Oz Day

First-graders at Johnston Elementary School celebrated Wizard of Oz Day after completing their unit studies on the children’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum. For the celebration, students and teachers dressed as their favorite characters from the book, made “Over the Rainbow” cupcakes and compared and contrasted the story in the book and in the movie.

Eliminating the Daily Commute continued from page 8

commuting population has decreased in the past several years, it is still too high. The data collected in the Opportunity Cherokee plan will be a valuable tool in recruiting the companies that will keep the Cherokee talent local. The Opportunity Cherokee plan is a strategic blueprint for the next five years. The mission is clear, the plan is underway and the community is ready. Follow COED on Twitter @CherokeeOED and Facebook.com/cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment to stay up to date on economic development news.

The Story of Happy Lives continued from page 12

the way. They restrict their travels to Highway 92 and their children assist in outings that require a few more turns! Doris has learned to use a computer, pays their bills online, has a Facebook page and reads books on a Kindle. She plays Mah Jong weekly with her two daughters and a few friends. Their favorite social outings are to Ruby Tuesdays and local theater productions with their son. So, you ask, how do you stay married for 60 years? Sid will tell you a shot of vodka before dinner every night. Doris will tell you watching TV in separate rooms and meeting up for meals. Maybe the the real truth is that they still sleep in a full-size bed! In this day and age, a couple like Doris and Sid are certainly great role models for relationships. They will tell you, they have lived a simple life and that is what has led them to stay happy. If you are looking around town to see them out and about, just look for the cute little couple who is still holding hands, walking down the street.

A Ritz Cracker Kind of Guy continued from page 19

But what surprised me most was that I actually missed Ann’s homemade crackers. It’s not always easy for a man to appreciate the attention to detail an effortful woman brings into her family’s life. Sometimes,

Barbara Hardie and her students are, front row, left: Josue Medina, Matthew Klucsarits, Breanna Prater and Jaxon Shinall. Back row: Yamileth Hernandez, John-Ryan Wages, Ruthie Fleming, Jersey Saylor, Kaitlyn Rosenau, Bria Solis, Melia McClelland and Sarah Love.

what she does seems frivolous — and God knows, sometimes it’s expensive. But there is a reason for a woman’s efforts, and this I understand – as a father, as a husband of 28 years, and also as a physician who has listened to women carefully over the years. A woman gives life to her children, brings beauty to her home, and creates ties in her community. A woman makes life more beautiful for us men….Whether we want her to or not.

Things That Make Me Cry continued from page 33

With open arms, I have accepted the melting of my heart and inability to control my emotions when it comes to my child. I will happily shed these “crazy embarrassing mom tears,” because being a mother is the most rewarding and terrifying thing I have ever done. But everyone was right: It’s all worth it.

Becoming an Actor Step 4 continued from page 43

on-set experience. You may want to do it once or twice, just to have the opportunity to see what it is like to be on a major set — but you do not want to put extra work on your résumé. Putting “extra” on your résumé does not tell a casting director anything about your ability to act, and trying to beef up your experience by putting “featured” or “Bar Patron” usually won’t make a difference in any hiring decision. The casting director and agents will know you did not audition for that role, and that you didn’t have lines. Have patience, and your résumé will grow. If you want to jump ahead quickly in your career, you need to learn how to produce your own work, also called self-producing. The basic concept is that you either write a script for yourself, or you collaborate with a writing partner; then you find a crew to film. Just like you are beginning in your acting career, others are beginning in their editing or directing careers, and building their own résumés. You can find such potential career-makers in online groups, in meet-ups or within your personal circle. Once the project is finished, you can distribute it to online video sites like YouTube; you can even enter your production into film festivals. Promote the project, earn followers, and soon your network of contacts will grow. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Cherokee Photography Club

Congratulations to all the participants in the competition “Silhouettes.”

If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

Monochromatic:

1st Martin Longstaff “Golden Ride ”

2nd Naomi Shively “U.S. Marines ”

3rd Peter Kilpo “Last Round of the Day”

HM L.B. Bryant “Through My Lover’s Eye”

Digital Projection: 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 from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net. 1st Percy Clapp “Black Birds” 58

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

2nd Cheryl Heib “Sands of Time”

3rd Becky Sapp “Flight Dreams”

HM David Ferguson “Lost Souls”

Color Prints:

1st Rick Sapp “Garden Dreams”

2nd Bobby Campbell “County Fair”

3rd Eillene Kirk “Rock On!”

HM Martin Longstaff “The Pledge” AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Reference

Purchase your tickets online at: ksuowls.com

Purchase your tickets online at: reinhardteagles.com 60

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

WOODSTOCK AREA HOMES SOLD IN SEPTEMBER List Price 189,900 199,900 179,900 185,000 149,900 185,000 235,000 182,000 312,000 139,900 235,000 529,000 195,000 211,900 165,000 549,900 119,500 279,972 117,000 215,900 600,000 219,900 309,900 362,900 364,900 254,900 337,000 260,000 185,000 199,900 305,000 165,000 284,900 274,900 230,000 189,900 414,900 200,000 239,900 180,000 130,000 325,000 475,000 139,000 450,000 169,900

Address 266 Colony Center DR 2068 Crestview WAY 204 Colony Center DR 452 Village VW 180 Colemans Bluff Dr 133 Village TRL 500 Acuba CT 155 Weatherstone DR 214 Cornerstone DR 502 E Lake CT 359 Acuba VW 224 Mcaffee ST 253 Park AVE 538 Watercress DR 1421 Anona PL 206 Fowler ST 169 Bentley PKWY 104 Towey TRL 210 Apple Branch DR 5132 Shotwell ST 104 Fernwood DR 500 Watercress DR 702 Abbotsford WAY 1762 Grand Oaks DR 1790 Grand Oaks DR 415 Waverly PL 231 Sumac TRL 918 BENDLETON DR 1054 Dunedin TRL 428 Citronelle DR 415 Gael WAY 585 Rivercrest DR 221 Revillion WAY 438 Windsong WAY 707 Purslane WAY 1301 Kensington LN 2002 Fairway Crossing DR 423 Norton XING 203 Highlands DR 514 Lazy River LN 365 Arnold Mill RD 338 Shade Tree CIR 4017 Hickory Fairway DR 922 Riverstone WAY 4032 Hickory Fairway DR 230 Valley Brook DR

Subdivision Westridge Westridge Westridge Woodstock Village Colemans Bluff Woodstock Village Cottage Of Woodstock Weatherstone Cornerstone Park Colemans Bluff The Cottages of Woodstock Woodstock Downtown Park Place Estates Woodlands Kingsgate Woodstock Downtow Heartwood Woodlands Applewood Southlands Fernwood Creek Woodlands Wynchase Oakhurst Oakhurst WYNCHASE Woodlands WOODLANDS GLEN The Park At Kingsgate Kingsgate Woodlands Driftwood Forest Woodlands Serenade Woodlands Farmington Bradshaw Farm Whitfield At Ridgewalk Arbor View River Plantation LITTLE RIVER NORTH Orchards Of East Cherokee Bradshaw Farm River Oaks Bradshaw Farm Valley Brook

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

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

Yr Built Sold Price 1995 191,900 1995 190,000 1996 175,000 2013 183,000 1989 149,000 2013 185,000 2007 233,000 1998 182,000 2010 305,000 1992 137,500 2006 230,000 2013 497,000 1986 200,000 2005 210,000 2000 157,100 2015 589,065 1994 118,000 2003 280,000 1982 117,000 1990 211,000 2006 595,000 2005 210,000 2015 311,500 2014 374,000 2015 372,128 2012 245,500 2006 337,000 2003 265,000 2000 183,000 1999 195,000 2005 303,500 1978 164,500 2005 279,000 2002 269,500 2004 223,000 1983 189,900 1998 402,500 2004 190,000 2004 237,500 2000 178,000 1975 125,000 2012 325,000 2000 449,000 1987 134,000 1999 435,000 1987 165,000

A partial list of FMLS SF Detached residences data provided by The Premier Group, Keller Williams Realty Partners, Woodstock, GA Data believed to be accurate, but not warranted.

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Reference

ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS United States Government President Barack Obama (D)

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 www.whitehouse.gov

Sen. David Perdue (R)

B40D Dirksen Senate Ofc. Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 perdue.senate.gov

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

131 Russell Senate Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20510 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339 isakson.senate.gov

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

202-456-1414 fax: 202-456-2461 202-224-3521 GA: 678-248-6444

202-224-3643 GA: 770-661-0999

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

404-652-7003 203 State Capitol, 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.georgia.gov

Sen. Brandon Beach (R) District 21 brandon.beach@senate.ga.gov

404-463-1378

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

Rep. Wes Cantrell (R) District 22 wes@cantrellforhouse.com

770-722-7526

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

404-656-0254

scot@turnerforhouse.com

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov

Rep. John Carson (R) District 46 john.carson@house.ga.gov

404-656-0287

Superior Court 678-493-6260 678-493-6270 678-493-6240

State Court Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

678-493-6490 678-493-6480

Magistrate Court Chief Judge James E. Drane III (R) Judge Gregory Douds

L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman

lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Steve West (R) District 1 Ray Gunnin (R) District 2 rgunnin@cherokeega.com

Brian Poole (R) District 3 bpoole@cherokeega.com

Scott Gordon (R) District 4 sgordon@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Coroner Earl W. Darby

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R)

498 Chattin Drive Canton, GA 30115 rdgarrison@cherokeega.com

678-493-6431 678-493-6431

Probate Court 678-493-6160

Sonya Little

2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 slittle@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County School Board Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo 221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org 678-493-4100 fax: 678-493-4228

678-493-6400 fax: 678-493-6420 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us 770-479-1871 fax: 770-479-1236

Kyla Cromer (R) (Chair)

678-493-8088

Kelly Poole (R) District 1

678-895-9044

Patsy Jordan (R) District 2 patsy.jordan@cherokee.k12.ga.us

770-893-2970

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Rick Steiner (R) District 4

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Clark Menard (R) District 5

770-721-4398, x4370 770-928-0341

Mike Chapman (R) District 6 mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us City Government Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Juvenile Court

770-735-8055

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Judge Keith Wood (R)

Commissioners

kelly.poole@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Cherokee County Courts Chief Judge Jackson Harris Judge David Cannon Jr. Judge Ellen McElyea

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

swest@cherokeega.com

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R) District 11 238 Cannon House Ofc. Bldg., Washington DC 20515 202-225-2944 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 GA: 770-429-1776 loudermilk.house.gov

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com

1130 Bluffs Pkwy., Canton, GA 30114

www.canton-georgia.gov

Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

District Attorney Shannon Wallace

678-493-6250 678-493-6280 770-479-1488

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

678-493-6511

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

www.hollyspringsga.us. www.woodstockga.gov

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 770-345-0400 Cherokee County Government

Animal Shelter Business Licenses Clean & Beautiful Commission Commissioners Courthouse Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) Extension Office Jury Phone Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) Planning & Zoning Senior Services Tax Assessors/Evaluation

Taxes:

770-345-7270 770-721-7810 770-517-7650 678-493-6000 770-479-1953 678-493-6077 770-479-0418 770-479-9011 770-479-1953 678-493-6101 770-345-5312 678-493-6120

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax 678-493-6400 Woodstock Office 770-924-4099 Voter Registration 770-479-0407

Children/Family

Anna Crawford Children’s Center Bethesda Community Clinic Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club Cherokee Family Violence Center Cherokee Focus Child Support Enforcement Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) www.casacherokee.org Department of Family & Children Services The Hope Center MUST Cherokee Ministries Papa’s Pantry

770-345-8100 678-880-9654 770-720-7712 770-479-1804 770-345-5483 770-720-3581 770-345-3274 770-720-3610 770-924-0864 770-479-5397 770-591-4730

Driver’s Licenses (Tues — Sat) 678-413-8400 Fire Department (District 1, Station 20) 770-926-7155 Georgia State Patrol 770-205-5400 Health Department 770-345-7371 Hospitals

Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 North Fulton Hospital 770-751-2500 Northside Hospital — Cherokee 770-720-5100

Hotlines — 24 Hour Helplines

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center — Atlanta Outside Metro Atlanta Probate Court Information Line Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

770-479-1703 770-345-7920 404-616-9000 800-222-1222 770-704-2610 770-428-2666

Libraries www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org Rose Creek 770-591-1491 R.T. Jones 770-479-3090 Woodstock 770-926-5859 Non-Emergency 911 770-479-3117

Parks and Recreation

BridgeMill Athletic Club 770-345-5500 Cherokee County Outdoor YMCA 770-591-5820 Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency 770-924-7768 www.crpa.net Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187 www.cherokeesoccer.com Eagle Watch Golf Club 770-591-1000 Hobgood Park 770-924-7865 North Atlanta Soccer Assoc. 770-926-4175 www.nasa-ga.org SCRA Park 770-926-5672 Towne Lake Hills Golf Club 770-592-9969 Wildlife Action, Inc. 800- 753-2264

Pets

Animal Control 678-493-6200 CatSnip (low cost spay & neuter) www.atlantaanimalalliance.com Cherokee County Animal Shelter — Adoptions 770-345-7270 www.cherokeega-animals.org Cherokee County Humane Society 770-928-5115 www.cchumanesociety.org Emergency Veterinary Clinic 770-924-3720 Funds4Furry Friends 770-842-8893 Lost Pets Go to www.townelaker.com. click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet Pet Buddies Food Pantry www. petbuddiesfoodpantry.org SPARE (Sterilizing Pets And Reducing Euthanasia) 770-928-5120 Second Chance Dog Rescue www.secondchancedogs.org

Post Office (Woodstock)

www.usps.com 800-275-8777

Recycling Center 770-516-4195 Sheriff’s Department 678-493-4100 www.cherokeega-sheriff.org Georgia Sex Offender Registry www.cherokeega-sheriff.org/offender/offender.htm

Utilities

Atlanta Gas Light Co. 770-907-4231 www.aglc.com AT&T 404-780-2355 www.bellsouth.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Authority 770-479-1813 Comcast 770-926-0334 Cobb EMC 770-429-2100 www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power www.georgiapower.com

Urgent Care Facility

American Family Care, 6440 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock 770-200-1220 Northside Cherokee Urgent Care, 900 Towne Lake Pkwy 404-851-6577 SHEFA Urgent Care 2000 Village Professional Dr. #110, Canton 678-661-3166 Wellstar Urgent Care 678-494-2500

Woodstock, City of

(in Towne Lake, only applies to Avonlea, Deer Run,

ParkView, Paces and certain annexed commercial parcels) . www.woodstockga.gov City Hall 770-592-6000 Fire Department 770-926-2302 Police Information 770-592-6030 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Reference

WOODSTOCK CITY GUIDE Stay Connected on Facebook

City of Woodstock: www.facebook.com/WOODSTOCKGAGOVT Woodstock Fire: www.facebook.com/woodstockfireandrescue Woodstock Main Street: www.facebook.com/MainStreetWoodstock Woodstock Parks and Recreation: www.facebook.com/woodstockparks Woodstock Police: www.facebook.com/woodstockpolicegeorgia Woofstock Dog Park: www.facebook.com/woofstockpark

On Twitter

www.twitter.com/woodstockpd www.twitter.com/woodstockfd www.twitter.com/woodstockparks www.nixle.com Sends alerts, advisories and community notifications from the city of Woodstock and Cherokee County Sheriff Department. www.cherokeega-sheriff.org A resource to check for registered sex offenders in your neighborhood. Click on Georgia Sexual Offender Registry then click on Register for Email Alerts for updates.

City Manager Jeffrey S. Moon, 770-592-6001, jmoon@woodstockga.gov Rhonda Smith, exec. assistant, 770-592-6001, rsmith@woodstockga.gov

City Council Representatives

For minutes and agendas of meetings, visit www.woodstockga.iqm2.com. Ward 1: Warren Johnson Ward 2: Chris Casdia Ward 3: Bob Mueller Ward 4: Liz Baxter Ward 5: Bud Leonard Ward 6: Rob Usher Council appointed committees: Downtown Development Authority and Convention & Visitors Bureau; Ethics Board; Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

Economic Development

Downtown Development Authority Convention & Visitors Bureau Brian Stockton, Director, 770-592-6056, bstockton@woodstockga.gov

City Officials

Woodstock Visitors Center/Dean’s Store Kyle Bennett, Tourism Manager, 770-924-0406, kbennett@woodstockga.gov Mitzi Saxon, Administrative Coordinator, 770-592-6056, or ext.-2250 msaxon@woodstockga.gov

Mayor Donnie Henriques, 770-592-6001, dhenriques@woodstockga.gov

Public Safety

City of Woodstock government 770-592-6000

Finance Robert Porche, CFO 770-592-6003, rporche@woodstockga.gov Parks and Recreation Preston Pooser, 770-517-6788, ppooser@woodstockga.gov

Trolley Routes outlined in red

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

George Williams, community outreach, Fire Marshal’s office 770-592-6000 ext. 1845, gwilliams@woodstockga.gov Woodstock Police Department 770-592-6030 Woodstock Post Office 770-591-0364

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, ÂŠ OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approximately 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Reference

WOODSTOCK AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. every Wednesday at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock Contact: Marci Zied 770-345-8687 Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock www.cherokeetoastmasters.com Empowered Women Through Synergy Meets: 8:30 a.m. third Thursday at J Christopher’s, 315 Chambers St., Woodstock Contact: Shahida Baig 678-445-3900 The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/woodstock/ Main Street Woodstock Meets: 8 a.m. last Friday of every month at 8534 Main St. at City Center www.mainstreetwoodstock.org Southeast Cherokee Business Networking Meets: 8:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Frosty Frog Creamery, 6205 Hickory Flat Hwy., #112, Canton www.secbn.com Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-615-3350 www.tlba.org Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7:15-8:45 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Marc Replogle 770-952-5000, ext. 20 or 404-816-3377 www.powercore.net Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: info@womenofwoodstock.com www.womenofwoodstock.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Ahimsa House Helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org Angel House Girls Home A residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center Dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. Contact: 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Bethany Place A transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. Contact: 770-479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org CASA for Children Promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. Contact: 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org CCHS Thrift Store Accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Contact: 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center Offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800334-2836 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. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: 770-928-5115 or admin@cchumanesociety.org www.cchumanesociety.org Cherokee FOCUS Works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org Cherokee County Senior Services Offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services Community Veterinary Care Provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. Contact: 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com Companion Animal Connection Contact: 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com Everyday Angels Offers financial assistance for local families in need. Contact: aaeverydayangels@gmail.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. Provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. Contact: 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net Forever Fed A mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org Funds 4 Furry Friends Helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter 770-842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com Georgia Animal Project, Offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Based in Ball Ground Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.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. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America Animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch Offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org HopeQuest Ministry Group Helps people who struggle intensely with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org HOPE Center Offers support for unplanned pregnancy. Contact: 770-924-0864 or info@TheHopeCtr.com www.hopectr.com

HOPE Center — Baby & More Thrift Store Offers adult and children’s clothing. Contact: 770-517-4450 www.babyandmorethriftstore.com MUST Ministries Offers 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 Parkway 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 Outreach 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. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net North Georgia Pregnancy Center Offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. Contact: 706-253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org Papa’s Pantry A year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Contact: Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Pet Buddies Food Pantry Helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. Contact: 678-310-9858 www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County Provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.safekidscherokeecounty.org SERV International Operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. Contact: 770-516-1108 www.servone.org Volunteer Aging Council A nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. Contact: 770-310-3474 www.vac-cherokeega.org

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road Contact: Irma Martin 678-662-2366

Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road Contact: Andrew Yrabedra 404-663-4663

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter For anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: Rich 770-926-1944 Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room) www.saltcherokee.com Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org

Citizen Oversight and Education Contact: 678-520-2236, citizenoversighteducation@ yahoo.com Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. Contact: Marcie Zied 770-345-8687 Junior Service League of Woodstock Contact: 770-592-3535 http://jslwoodstock.org/ Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 Contact: Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com www.pilotinternational.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 770-480-4179 Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 678-428-6514 Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Featherstone’s Grille at 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock www.townelakerotary.com Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills Contact: 770-926-3522 Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Eagle Watch Golf Club Contact: 404-557-2218 www.townelakeoptimists.com Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road Contact: 770-926-8336 Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Contact: 770-906-2958

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs Contact: 770-345-3489 www.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 http://cherokeelp.org Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at JUMP Kitchen and Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Xing, Woodstock Contact: 678-882-0915 http://cherokeecounty.gop Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Contact: Conrad Quagliaroli 770-378-8232, conradquag@gmail.com www.teapartypatriots.org/groups/cherokee-tea-partypatriots/ Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton Contact: 770-592-7811 or jkconkey@gmail.com Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at the Wendy’s in Holly Springs, 5343 Old Highway 5, Woodstock Contact: Bill Dewrell 770-294-0922 Republican Women of Cherokee County Contact: 678-520-2236 www.rwccga.com

RECREATION & HOBBIES Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the Lake. Contact: Rob Kelly 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 A community of singers from all walks of life including housewives, teachers, retired professionals, office managers and professional musicians who love the art of choral singing. Contact: 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton Contact: 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org Cherokee County Master Gardeners Contact: 770-721-7803 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/mastergardeners Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee County Saddle Club Hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) Roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association Contact: 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 Kingdom Riders A forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons For men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org Wildlife Action, Inc. A conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Contact: 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Highway, Canton www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center Offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. http://www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8 pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen 8 pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Reba. 770-516-3502 www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.php?district=17 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013

American Red Cross Metro Chapter Contact: 770-428-2695 Breast Cancer Support Group Meets: 10 a.m. - noon first Thursday of each month at Northside Hospital—Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: 404-843-1880 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. Contact: 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist Contact: 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House Contact: 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group Provides support for people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, etc. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs Contacts: Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@ comcast.net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association For pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. 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 Contact: Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence Contact: 404-824-4637, gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org Grace Valley Ministries Connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: 727-251-7690, info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter Support and resources offered at free and quarterly meetings in the Woodstock area. Contact: 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 Contact: Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770-517-0191 MOMS Club of Woodstock - Towne Lake Contact: momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com https://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 Contact: 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 Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://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

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com

Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com

Faith Community 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.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 Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org 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

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.com

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net 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 Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 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.

Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org

EPISCOPAL

Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.annunciationepiscopal.org Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

JEWISH

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869 www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-3558 www.heritagepres.com Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074 www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

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

Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com

New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org

UNITED METHODIST

BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org

North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombchurch.org 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.ngumc.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

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.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 Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com 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 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv

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 Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Soul Medicine 3725 Sixes Road Canton Soulmedicinesunday.org Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org 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 AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES

BUSINESS

Edward Jones Ivan Garcia: 770-926-0105 www.edwardjones.com

Open Mortgage 404-992-7798 understandingreverse.com

Schuckers & Associates 706-745-2475, 770-329-8873

ASSISTED LIVING Windsor House Assisted Living 678-880-9856 www.WindsorHouseAssistedLiving.com

Limbocker Law Firm 678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com

BEAUTY, MASSAGE & SPA Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662

Salon Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

Inside back

Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychrio.com

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)

EQUESTRIAN Green Acres Equestrian Center, LLC 770-517-5154 www.GreenAcresOnline.com Heaven’s Gait Therapeutic Riding 770-656-5764 www.facebook.com/hgtrinc

Blue Horizon Air Cond. & Heating 678-279-2244 BHCool.com Elite Roofing of Georgia 770-445-1290 www.roofelite.com

Inside Front

Grout Doctor, The 678-383-1311 www.GroutDoctor.com

Fountain View Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.FountainViewSmiles.com

Mr. Junk 678-MR-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com

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

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

Spillane Orthodontics 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com

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

INSURANCE State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net

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

EDUCATION/TUTORING Grant Academy, The 770-926-7827 www.thegrantacademy.net

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR

DENTAL

Cherokee County Toyota Inside Front 770-704-9525 www.CherokeeCountyToyota.com

CHIROPRACTIC

AUTOMOTIVE

Salon TLC 770-516-4858 www.SalonTLC.com

Maids Unlimited 770-843-9813 www.maidsunlimitedatl.com

Holiday Tour of Homes www.JSLWoodstock.org

Piano Instructor-Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Hartman Imbriale Attorneys 678-445-7423 www.hartman-imbriale.com

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

CLEANING SERVICES

Junior Service League

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

Bavarian Repair 770-310-2381 www.bavarianrepair.com

Downtown Buzz 770-592-6056 www.downtownwoodstock.org/ downtown-buzz

North Cobb Christian School 770-975-0252 www.ncchristian.org

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

PETS Blue Sky Dog Walkers 404-938-2483 www.BlueSkyDogWalkers.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.findingrover.com www.cherokeega-animals.org

Perimeter North Family Medicine 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.ElmStreetArts.org

Thomas Eye Group 770-928-4544 www.thomaseyegroup.com

Kennesaw State University www.ksuowls.com

Reinhardt University www.reinhardteagles.com

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

North Georgia Audiology 13 and Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 770-726-8948 www.NorthGeorgiaHearing.com North Georgia Foot and Ankle Reconstruction, Dr. Bret Hintze 770-999-0804 www.NGFAR.com

Northside Hospital-Cherokee www.Northside.com

Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage, Tara Daigle, Realtor 5 404-925-6351 tara@keatingbrs.com Broadus Realty Group Donna Braodus, 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT

RETAILERS/SHOPPING Fashion Cupcake 770-891-8180 www.ShopFashionCupcake.com

Crest at Laurelwood, The www.crestatlaurelwood.com

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

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea Linda B. Lee, 850-319-8050 linda.lee@pelicanproperty.com

Rudi Fine Jewelry 678-445-2626

Premier Group, The — Keller Williams 678-494-0102 www.TPGsells.com

Back cover

Cover, 36, 37

Spirited 678-214-5304 www.spritlala.com

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

26 7

photo by J King Images

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. 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.

From left Michelle McCulloch, Patty Ponder, Jon and Karen Flaig, Candi Hannigan, Denise Griffin, Laura Latchford, Jackie Loudin and Christie Deese.

Around Woodstock Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500

AROUND WOODSTOCK | November 2015

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 six for our contact information