11-19 AroundAcworth webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Contents

28 & 29 On the Cover TrueVision Eyecare

November 2019

Photo by J. King Images

In Every Issue

Features 16 A Cleaner Lake

More than a thousand volunteers turned out recently to spruce up a few day use areas and campgrounds on Lake Allatoona.

20 Operation: Love Reunited

A network of photographers serves our military service members and their families in unique and meaningful ways.

30 The Pies Have It!

Need a last-minute dish this season? These quick and easy pie recipes have you covered.

46 More Than Milk and Cookies

Santas spent a few days in Acworth recently, preparing for the Christmas season.

4 Around Acworth

Tommy Allegood

8 Local News

Ryan Blythe

15 Celebrations

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Jennifer Bonn

Wayne Dennard

18 Robâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rescues

Greg Fonzeno

24 Community Calendar

Jim Hilber

36 Dining Guide

Malinda Howe

School News

Tiffany Hughes

Library Events

Ellen Kennerly

Senior Activities

Rob Macmillan

Churches

Josh Nelson

C.A. Phillips

Christopher Purvis

Susan Schulz

Robert Tidwell

Pacita Wilson

52 Cobb Photographic Society 54

Directory of Advertisers

Katherine Amick, Director of Marketing 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundAcworthMagazine.com

17 Ribbon Cuttings

Advertising

Around Acworth Magazine

Contributors

@AroundAcworth

around_acworth

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Around Acworth Letter From the Editor

What’s New

As I sit down to write my monthly Letter from the Editor, the leaves on the trees outside are finally starting to turn colors. Soon the landscape will be dotted with bright oranges and reds, which means the holiday season, beginning with Thanksgiving, is right around the corner. This time of year, everyone’s thoughts become quite reflective. Thanksgiving is a time when we pause and think back on all our blessings over the last year, big and small. For those who haven’t been counting, this is my 13th Letter from the Editor, which means my first letter ran in the November 2018 issue. That letter was my first task as editor. The first full issue I worked on with the magazine was the December 2018 issue. It’s hard to believe it’s already been a full year, but I have to say I have loved every minute of it. I’m so blessed to work with a great group of women at Aroundabout Local Media and I’m thankful to cover such an amazing community as Acworth. Looking back at my first letter, it was all about my family moving back to Georgia after four years in Northwest Arkansas. We’ve been back for almost a year and a half now. Our daughter turns 2 later this month and it’s been such a blessing having both sets of grandparents nearby to watch her grow up. Parker Grace loves spending time with her grandparents and being spoiled by them. That’s what grandparents are for, right? Parker also enjoyed telling her grandparents that she’s going to be a big sister in March. These are just a few of the blessings I’m going to take time to be grateful for this Thanksgiving. A few of our writers offer up food for thought on taking time for selfreflection and counting even the not-soobvious blessings this year on Pages 32 and 33. Don’t worry though, we didn’t forget the food! Tiffany Hughes has you covered on all things pie for your family Thanksgiving on Page 30. Wishing you and yours a very happy and blessed Turkey Day!

The Acworth Pedestrian Bridge is officially open to the public! The city held a ribbon cutting and lighting ceremony Oct. 3 to celebrate the occasion. City and county officials and residents gathered for the event at the corner of Lemon and Main streets.

K atie Beall Katie Beall is editor of Around Acworth. Send your comments or questions to Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Noteworthy The Cobb County Water System will be replacing a water main on Lake Acworth Drive between Logan and Cowan roads. Construction is underway and the estimated completion date is Feb. 27, 2020. This is not in conjunction with the C.W. Matthews/GDOT widening project on Highway 92. For more information, call 770-419-6200. Members of the Liberty Hill Chapter DAR, below, participated in the

DAR Day of Service Oct. 12. The group worked in the oldest section

of the Liberty Hill Cemetery, clearing debris, cleaning headstones and placing American flags on veterans’ gravesites. The Find-A-Grave app was used to search for individual requests and to update memorials.

Kudos Congratulations to Dr. Yen Tran and Acworth Premier Dental Care on celebrating their one-year anniversary. The practice is celebrating its new ownership anniversary with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Nov. 21. Acworth Premier Dental Care is located at 4343 S. Main St. Acworth Parks Operations Manager, Nick Fryman was recently named the 2019 Outstanding Facilities and Ground Staff award winner for the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s District 5. Congratulations!

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COMMUNITY BOARD The Around Acworth community board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways that range from serving as contributing writers to providing valuable feedback.

Tia Amlett, the principal of Barber Middle School, has

been an educator for the past 19 years. Prior to becoming a principal, Tia served as an assistant principal at Garrett Middle School and North Cobb High School. She is a native of South Carolina who earned her bachelor’s degree at Clemson University and master’s and education specialist’s degrees from Nova Southeastern University. Tia is married to Jonah, and they have two children, Nia and Jordan, who attend Cobb County schools.

Ellen Kennerly has lived in Acworth since 1992. She has worked as a journalist for more than three decades, most of it with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution holding positions as Olympics News Editor, Design Director, A1 Editor and Director of Content Development and Operations for ajc.com, among others. More recently, she worked as Professional in Residence at Louisiana State University and as Director of Asset Intelligence for WebMD. Her business, Kennerly Digital Directions, provides consulting and hands-on deliverables in communications, design and web development, largely for Acworth business people. Bob Weatherford has been a Cobb County resident for

two decades. Bob was a reserve police officer for more than 20 years, eight of those with Acworth PD including time as Captain. He is active in local charities, numerous civic organizations, and co-founded Shop with a Hero. He served as Cobb County District 1 Commissioner since 2014, and recently left that post to work for AquaGuard as the government businesses development director.

Danielle Hilderbrand is a Cobb County native. She has

been a business owner on Main Street in Acworth for more than six years. Danielle is the proprietor of Pearl’s Spa and Boutique, a partner in Rustic Ruby gift shop and an active volunteer in Acworth. She has been a member of the Acworth Downtown Development Authority for several years and is the 2017 president of the Acworth Business Association. She is a graduate from McEachern High School and Acworth’s North Metro Technical College (now Chattahoochee Tech).

Malinda Howe has lived in Acworth since 1996. She is owner and broker of Anchor Realty Partners and vice chairman of Acworth Tourism Board. She has been a member of the board for nine years. Malinda is originally from Alexandria, Va., and attended George Mason University. She always loved real estate and began her career in commercial real estate working with Savage/ Fogarty, which acquired and managed Class A office buildings on behalf of Dutch pension funds. She moved to Georgia with TMW Management, assisting in acquisitions and leases from 1997-2003, and then pursued her career in residential real estate. Malinda and her husband, Rick, have one daughter, Kara. Malinda lives, plays and works in Historic Downtown Acworth. 6

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Title Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Around Acworth, 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 Acworth 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 56 for a distribution map. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Acworth welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor/publisher and the publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Acworth 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 2019 Around Acworth

1025 Rose Creek Dr., PMB 380, Ste. 620 Woodstock, GA 30189

www.AroundAcworthMagazine.com

Volume 4, Issue 4

America’s Community Magazine

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Local News

DAR Celebrates Milestone The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) celebrated a milestone Oct. 5 as the national organization surpassed 1 million total members since its founding in 1890. For information on joining the Liberty Hill DAR Chapter in Acworth, visit www.libertyhill.georgiastatedar.org or email LibertyHillDAR@gmail.com. The DAR is a women’s service organization whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. Each DAR member has a unique story, but all share a passion for historic preservation, education and patriotism, and a dedication to her local community.

New Entrance Fee for Kennesaw Mountain Claude Johnson, Mayor of Logan Farm, shakes hands with Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood after the ceremony.

Mitchell Hill Drive Opens in Acworth The City of Acworth held a ribbon cutting at the intersection of Mitchell Hill Drive and Taylor Street on Oct. 9. Mayor Tommy Allegood and the Board of Aldermen attended while long-time residents Claude and Willie Mae Johnson cut the ribbon on the extension of Mitchell Hill Drive that allows more connectivity to the parkside area. Johnson, nicknamed the Mayor of Logan Farm, and his wife thanked everyone in attendance.

A new vehicle entrance fee for Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park will go into effect Nov. 13. The funds generated from this new fee will enhance visitor safety and fund deferred maintenance projects such as earthwork stabilization, trail stabilization and repair and cannon restoration at outdoor displays. Funds also will provide activities such as youth programs, historical exhibits and internship opportunities. Vehicle entrance fees will be $5 per day or $40 per annual park specific pass. The America the Beautiful Interagency pass, senior pass, military pass, and the access pass also will be acceptable entrance forms. The park will use the www.recreation.gov website to sell passes along with on-site pass sales at the park’s visitor center. The park will not accept cash for this new fee program, so credit/debit cards will be the accepted forms of payment. Contact Nancy Walther at 770-427-4686, ext. 223 or nancy_walther@nps.gov for questions.

A Turkey-Day Event that Helps Others Plans are underway for the 17th annual MUST Ministries’ Gobble Jog, set for Nov. 28. The event includes runners in costumes, music, races and family time. The festivities drew 10,000 people from 45 states last year. The race is surrounded by a street festival atmosphere, according to MUST President and CEO Ike Reighard. “People tell us it’s one of the most enjoyable outings they attend all year. There is a sense of family and friends on Thanksgiving Day, combined with the deep desire to help their neighbors in need. What better day to show thankfulness and help others?” Now in its 17th year, the event raises muchneeded funds for those in poverty in an eightcounty area. MUST, in its 48th year of service to those in need, provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, housing, summer lunches for children, workforce development, clothing, toy shops and neighborhood pantries in 33 schools. For more details, visit www.gobblejog.org. 8

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Acworth Cultural Arts Presents Georgia Festival Chorus Concert Acworth Cultural Arts presents a “World Class” concert by The Georgia Festival Chorus at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 at Acworth United Methodist Church. The concert is free and open to the public. The 100-voice chorus, under the direction of David Scott, will perform classics, such as the “Hallelujah Chorus,” holiday favorites, such as “I Saw Three Ships,” and an original composition, “I Am,” by Acworth’s composer-in-residence, Chris Owenby. The Georgia Festival Chorus is comprised of an auditioned group of singers from a variety of backgrounds, ranging from professional singers, actors, instrumentalists, teachers, retired teachers, college instructors, and those who love to sing. Local retired music teachers who will be singing include, Judy Beale from Ford Elementary, and Sylvia Flanagan from Acworth Elementary. Acworth Cultural Arts is committed to bringing excellent programming to the community. For more information, visit www.acworthculturalarts.org.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Artists offer Holiday Gift Shop BY ELLEN KENNERLY

Area artists will be offering their jewelry, pottery, paintings and more at this year’s Holiday Gift Shop sponsored by the Acworth Arts Alliance from Dec. 7-8 at Rosenwald School in Acworth. The event was expanded to two days this year after last year’s strong community response. The shop will be open from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Prices will range from less than $5 for smaller items such as unique notecards and magnets to more than $100 for larger pieces of art. The Acworth Arts Alliance is a nonprofit formed to support the arts through education and exhibits at the Art House and in other venues and events in our community. The Art House hosts monthly receptions, offers various workshops and rotates new exhibits about every two months. For more information, visit www. acworthartsalliance.org, call 678-543-5777 or email acworthartsalliance@gmail.com. More than 60 area artists are members of the arts alliance and display their work at the Art House, an historic house adjacent to Logan Farm Park at 4425 Cherokee St. in Acworth.

Pottery artist and teacher Ann Wallin creates art out of clay and fire.

Ellen Kennerly is on the Around Acworth board and also serves on the board of the Acworth Arts Alliance.

It’s Time to Winterize Your Boat BY GREG FONZENO

Cold weather soon will be upon us, now that our extended summer of high temperatures and extra lake time has finally ended. While we don’t live in a region that sees ice get to 3-5 inches thick, we do see freezing temperatures that can damage boats. States such as Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and even California, often see higher numbers of freeze-related insurance claims and damage because we take our temperate climates for granted. Regardless of where you live, or climate, it’s time to winterize your boat and protect it for a smooth start next season.

Change the oil. An easy step is to change the engine and

gearbox oil. In addition to doing this in the spring, changing the oil should be a winterizing step as well. This will make sure the engine components are coated in fresh lubricant through the winter months.

Add a fuel stabilizer. Add a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for about 10 minutes to allow it to circulate through the fuel injector and carburetor. This will help keep the system from clogging or be damaged by deposits from any degrading fuel. Drain all liquids. Draining all water from the engine and cooling chambers will help prevent the engine block from

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

cracking in the event of freezing temperatures. Find the water pump and remove the hose to drain all the water completely.

Clean and inspect the boat and safety equipment. Clean the livewells, fish boxes, built-in iceboxes

and any area where moisture and fish odor can linger. Life jackets, wakeboards, skis, tubes and any other items should be dried thoroughly and wiped off with a microfiber towel before storing to prevent mold. Life jackets not in good shape, torn, or otherwise not serviceable, should be replaced. A leather and vinyl cleaner and conditioner should be used to clean and refresh boat seats, chairs and cushions.

Inspect the dock lines. The wind, waves, sun and heat can weaken dock lines. Prepare for winter storms by replacing dock lines and use chafing gear. These are just a few items to consider. These steps will cost very little now, but possibly save hundreds if not thousands next summer.

Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.

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A Message from the

his November, I am thankful for the heartwarming support from the Acworth citizens who attended the ribbon cutting and lighting ceremony for the downtown pedestrian bridge on Oct. 3. This new landmark destination will serve as a safe method for foot traffic between Parkside and our historic downtown, and as a symbol of community connectivity and the future development of our city. The pedestrian bridge allows residents and visitors to see Acworth from a bird’s-eye view. This new perspective adds to the excitement as the footprint of our downtown expands to include Parkside, and new commercial developments begin to break ground. Several new businesses are progressing with their construction. Red Top Brewery is going vertical, the 1860 Restaurant team is moving dirt, and TapTown is finalizing their construction plans and will start moving dirt in the near future. Acworth has much to look forward to, as these businesses are projected to open sometime next year. For additional connectivity, Mitchell Hill Drive is now open, and the city held an awesome ribbon-cutting for the roadway last month. Many members of the congregation from Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church joined in the festivities, and it was a delight to celebrate with them. This newly opened roadway increases residential access to Logan Farm Park and is one step closer to future private development. As excited as we are for all the new businesses coming to Acworth, we must be sure to support our established downtown merchants. Main Street will celebrate Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30 with a Merchants Open

House. We encourage the community to shop locally and sample delicious treats in our downtown stores. You won’t want to miss the incredible deals at this unique shopping event. Last month, Cobb County celebrated Public Safety Appreciation Week. These seven days provided local businesses and citizens the opportunity to express encouragement and gratitude for our public safety agencies. The Cobb Chamber of Commerce held its 24th annual Salute to Public Safety Breakfast to recognize those who serve our community by keeping us safe. Acworth Police Department Officer Nicolas Parker was honored with a nomination for the Public Safety Recognition Award. Congratulations to Parker and the Acworth Police Department! Thank you for all that you do for the city. I would like to invite everyone to join me at Acworth’s Veterans Day ceremony at 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at Patriots Point in Cauble Park. We are honored to express our gratitude to those who have served by hosting this event. It is a privilege to have these brave men and women living in our community, and to honor them with a Veterans Day ceremony. As always, for more information on any of these happenings, visit www.acworth.org, sign up for our e-news blasts on our home page, “like” Visit Acworth on Facebook, or follow us on Instagram at @VisitAcworth. God bless, Tommy

Tommy Allegood was elected to Acworth’s city council in 2000 and has served as mayor since 2002. He is a community builder who is purposed to make it count!

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

ACWORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT

Making Additional Training a Priority BY WAYNE DENNARD

As our styles of policing have changed, so have the expectations of our officers and the training they receive. Most of our officers have bachelor’s degrees or are in the process of earning them, and many others have advanced graduate degrees. In addition to traditional courses of university study, our profession maintains specialized training centers at the state and federal levels. One of the most exclusive is the FBI National Academy (FBINA), an exceptional opportunity that provides an outstanding benefit to our community. The FBINA is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement managers who are nominated by their agency heads because of demonstrated leadership qualities. The 10-week program provides coursework in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication and forensic science. The program serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies, and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge and cooperation worldwide. It is a great honor to be invited to take the class, and only a few officers are given the opportunity. Up until this year, I was the only APD officer who had attended the FBINA. However, this year, Lt. Mike Taylor attended. His service to the Acworth Police Department has been exemplary, and his selection for the FBINA was wellearned. Taylor has had a diverse 20-year career in law enforcement, serving in

Chief Dennard and Lt. Taylor at Taylor’s graduation from the FBI National Academy.

SEU/Bike Patrol, SWAT, Narcotics and CID, and as the Uniformed Patrol commander. He currently is the commander over the Special Operations Division. He earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Thomas University, professional management program certification through Columbus State University, and certification in leadership in police organizations through the International Association of Chiefs of Police. Taylor is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

We are grateful to have Taylor on our team and serving the citizens of Acworth. In addition to the knowledge and experience that he already had, his training at the FBINA has provided him with a wealth of information that he is now able to share and apply with our officers and this community. I believe that investing in training and education for our officers is one of the best ways to invest in our community and to provide long-term dividends. That is the reason why training and education are at the core of our police department’s mission statement.

Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

UPCOMING ABA EVENTS Nov. 12

Morning Jolt

7:45-9 a.m. The Holbrook 4491 S. Main St., Acworth Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals with one another. Coffee and breakfast provided.

Nov. 14

Alive After Five

5:30-7:30 p.m. The Holbrook 4491 S. Main St., Acworth

Nov. 21

Women’s Network

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Brookwood Christian School 4728 Wood St., Acworth

Dec. 5

ABA Luncheon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth

Dec. 10

Morning Jolt

7:45-9 a.m. The Holbrook 4491 S. Main St., Acworth Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals with one another. Coffee and breakfast provided.

Dec. 12

Have You Built a Bridge Lately? BY JIM HILBER

The new railroad pedestrian bridge that connects Acworth’s Parkside to Lakeside opened last month to a large, cheering crowd. The evening ribbon cutting showcased the bridge’s dazzling lights and beautiful integration into the historic Main Street landscape. Local community leaders talked about the commitment, trust and faith required for this type of project. The City of Acworth can confirm that building a bridge is certainly a lot of work. That is also true for the bridges we build in our personal and business lives. In the end, it is always worth it and there is much to celebrate upon completion. The best part about building a bridge is that once it is complete, it continues to work for you and for those around you with a little maintenance. Your Acworth Business Association continues to help build the bridges and relationships that connect your vision with your purpose, in order to empower all of those who are around us. We do not want to sit back and watch things go; we strive to help build and grow. There are plenty of events scheduled throughout the remainder of the year to accomplish goals and prepare for

new initiatives. To find the full calendar of events, visit www.AcworthBusiness.org. At our October monthly luncheon, we awarded and recognized the American Legion Post 304 for its years of service, partnership and hospitality while hosting one of our regular morning events, the Morning Jolt. This important location continues to serve those who’ve served in our community. This “Little Post That Could” continues to accomplish its mission. Find out more at www.Post304.org. The Morning Jolt has moved from Post 304, and we are excited about our new venue and will continue to bring you fantastic mornings of networking together on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. We have relocated to The Holbrook, one of the newest additions to downtown that inspires residents to realize their passion and potential. The facility is open to the public, so explore what this amazing facility has to offer. Let’s celebrate our favorite traditions and make valuable new ones as we round out 2019. It is certainly an honor and my pleasure to serve the ABA community. Do good and be well, Jim Hilber 2019 President Acworth Business Association

Alive After Five

5:30-7:30 p.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive, Acworth 14

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Jim Hilber has served on the ABA board for three years. He is the president of Merchant Gladiator, LLC, and a father, raising two young boys with his wife Tania.

Celebrations!

Roger Parker

Age 68 on Nov. 27 Happy birthday Papa Bear! We love you.

Glenn & Beverly Farnsworth

Celebrating 60 years of marriage on Nov. 28. Happy anniversary!

Parker Grace Beall

Age 2 on Nov. 22 Happy birthday to our little nugget! Your determinded, joyful and brave spirit bring so much joy to our lives. We love you so much! Mommy and Daddy

Kale Lisetor

Age 6 on Nov. 11 Happy sixth birthday Kale; you bring us so much joy! Love, Mom, Dad and baby sister Raelynn

Hallie Ayers

Age 6 on Nov. 3 Happy birthday from your family and friends. We love you!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

E-mail to: Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com. December deadline is Nov. 14.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

The Great Lake

CLEANUP BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS

The 34th annual Great Lake Cleanup, considered one of the largest lake cleanups in the nation, took place Oct. 5. The weather was overcast and windy, with temps in the low 80s, which was awesome, considering the record breaking heat that had preceded the event. More than 3,500 registered volunteers, mainly Boy Scout and Girl Scout groups, participated in the one-day cleanup, gathering more than 6 tons of trash and 89 tires around the lake. Afterward, 1,045 people attended the appreciation picnics at Galt's Ferry Day Use in Cherokee County and Riverside Day Use Area in Bartow County. Both Old Highway 41 No. 3 and Sweetwater Campgrounds were filled to capacity from Friday afternoon until Sunday with registered volunteers who camped for free at the two U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facilities. Thank you to all the people who volunteered, and the 41 sponsors that assisted with this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event. We hope to see you in 2020 at the next Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup! Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

More than 3,500 volunteers registered for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cleanup, gathering more than 6 tons of trash from around Lake Allatoona.

City of Acworth Ribbon Cuttings 1. Cloud 9 Nail Salon 3969 S. Main St., Suite 130, Acworth 678-653-9675, On Facebook @Cloud9NailSpaAcworth 2. Max Auto Experts 3235 Odeon Way, Suite 230, Kennesaw 770-410-8161, www.maxautoexperts.com 3. Your CBD Store Acworth 3450 Cobb Parkway, Suite 230, Acworth 678-909-5230, https://cbdrx4u.com/find-us/georgia/acworth

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings Creed Clothing Company — 11:30 a.m. Oct. 30 3801 Old 41 Highway, Suite B, Kennesaw

1 2

Pampered Pink — 11:30 a.m. Nov. 6 4809 S. Main St., Acworth Acworth Premier Dental Care — 11:30 a.m. Nov. 21 4343 S. Main St., Acworth Generations Pizza — 11:30 a.m. Dec. 10 3969 S. Main St., Suite 160, Acworth

Giving thanks.

Jeff Langley, Agent 1305 Cedarcrest Road, Suite 105 Dallas, GA 30132 Bus: 770-628-5676 jeff@myagentjefflangley.com

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I’m so very thankful for my family, my customers and my amazing community. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

State Farm Bloomington, IL AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Molly. She is a tri-color 3-year-old Black Mouth Cur. Her tag number is 618402. She is a medium sized dog who is strong, smart and very well disciplined. She also sits very well. I think she is very obedient and toilet trained. I think she is the perfect dog for a family. She is affectionate, but not overbearing. This cat’s name is Quinton. He is 5 years old and his tag number is 618290. He is a large white cat with gray spots and a striped tail. He is very mellow and likes to explore quietly around an area. He was a stray and there are so many cats looking for a home in this shelter.

Molly, left, and Quinton are available at the Cobb County Animal Shelter, 1060 Al Bishop Drive SW, Marietta.

Meals on Wheels Atlanta I interviewed Ms. Charlene Crusoe-Ingram, who is the CEO of Meals on Wheels in Atlanta. www.mowatl.org

What does Meals on Wheels Atlanta (MOW Atl) do and how many people do you help?

We provide meals to more than 700 seniors. We have hundreds of volunteers and raise 97% of the funds that are needed to run this program ourselves.

What happened that made you start providing pet food to the people who use the MOW Atl program?

Our volunteers were realizing that many seniors were feeding their food to their pets. These animals are often these people’s only companions and mean the world to them. So, we established a pet food pantry and volunteers will now take food from the pantry to these pet owners.

What could I and the community do to help you? We need to keep the pet pantry stocked.

What type of food do the seniors in your program get? Where do you get the food that you give to the people and where do you get the pet food? Do you provide more dog or cat food?

The food we give to our seniors is bought with our own funds from commercial food provider, Cysco, and cooked in our commercial kitchen. The meals are overseen by a registered dietician for the particular senior’s needs. The pet food is obtained 100% by donations. At the moment we provide more dog food than cat food.

How could we get other MOW programs to also provide pet food?

Many MOW programs are county or government supported. We are not, which gives us more freedom to pursue ideas and form different partnerships − like the partnership we are hoping to form with the Humane Society of Atlanta that will help with vetting and further helping the pets of our seniors in the program. The focus of the Pet Advisory Council section of MOW America is moving toward providing pet food for seniors in their programs, which is a good step.

Rob and Ms. Charlene Crusoe-Ingram, CEO of Meals on Wheels Atlanta. 18

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

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

Diesel Equipment Technology Program

Career Training in High-Demand Fields ChattahoocheeTech.edu 770-528-4545

A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Operation: Love Reunited

Photographers Give Back to Military Families BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

“When my husband, Craig, left for the Middle East with the Air Force, I was heartbroken that no one was there to take farewell photos of our family,” Tonee Lawrence said. This begs the question: Where is the good in goodbye when a husband, wife or child is being deployed? Lawrence, a military wife and photographer, channeled her pain into something positive — launching the nonprofit organization Operation: Love Reunited (OpLove), based in Acworth. The nonprofit works to ease the sorrow of separation through cherished photographs of loved ones. OpLove photographers want to give back to those who want nothing more than to come home. The mission is simple: to make sure military families capture all the good they can in professional photographs to take with them as they leave for deployment. They also snap priceless images of long-awaited homecomings. There is no cost for the sessions or prints. Since 2006, OpLove has served those who serve. The organization represents a national network of professional photographers. These photographers

Capt. Joshua Solove carrying his boys through the airport at his homecoming shoot. 20

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Jason Tebbeharris with his children during a pre-deployment shoot at Little Rock Air Force Base.

are on assignment wherever needed: at airports, parks, or even in labor and delivery rooms. “I will never forget photographing a birth that was being streamed overseas to a father in the field,” Lawrence said. Beautiful keepsake albums are made and shipped to the soldiers overseas. “It is the little stuff,” Army Capt. Joshua Solove said. “We have what we need out in the field, but it sure does get lonely. OpLove gives you something you can’t duplicate. They capture priceless memories of home for us that bring us comfort. I had a two and a half-yearold son and a seven-day-old newborn when I left in June of 2009. I didn’t get to come back home until June of 2010. The thumbnails and CDs that hold the photos from our sessions will be the first thing to go in a bug out back, if an emergency were ever to strike.” Unfortunately, the reality of war means some soldiers don’t come home. “One of our most memorable shoots was in Fort Bliss, Texas, in April, 2009,” Lawrence said. “Over 500 soldiers were deployed with an Army brigade. There were 14 of us photographers covering the event. Over 8,000 prints were made and

sent overseas. Tragically, one of the clients from this event, Sgt. Joshua Soto, was killed in an IED blast a few months later. Sgt. Soto left behind his beautiful wife, Thelma, and his 8-month old son, Jayden. I delivered a beautiful canvas of the family portrait to Thelma for the funeral services. As a result, OpLove now has a memorial fund in his honor to cover the costs of professional display prints, canvases and photos for funeral services of those killed in action.” All OpLove donations help with printing images, and funding scholarships, the Sgt. Soto memorial and overall operations. OpLove, supporting photographers and sponsors have given back more than $2 million in services, print products and shipping costs, while helping thousands of military families stay positive through their loved ones’ deployments. For more information, or to celebrate Veterans Day by donating to OpLove, visit www.oplove.org. Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. www.susanbrowningschulz.com.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Flavors of Hawaii’s food truck-themed scarecrows.

Two LiRu Antiques and Decor took second place overall.

Scarecrows on Parade PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO

This year the City of Acworth had a record 53 scarecrows on parade. The ninth annual scarecrow parade lined Main Street, helping create a festive downtown. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Best Overall

Acworth Arts Alliance The Art House

Mayor's Choice

Georgia Junkies 41

Most Traditional

Yanmar Evo Center

Most Creative

The Acworth Achievers LuLaRoe’s Laini Moore put together this fashionable gal.

The Acworth Power and Public Works department came in second in the Mayor’s Choice category.

The Liberty Hill DAR Chapter's scarecrow celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, giving women the right to vote. Photo provided by the DAR. 22

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Best School

Brookwood Christian School

The Arts Alliance won best overall for Vincent Van Gogh. Photo provided by the Art House.

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Around & About NOVEMBER

8-9

Empowerment Worship Center in Acworth is hosting

the Southeast Apostolic & Prophetic Conference. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Friday and continues at 9:30 a.m. Saturday. For more information, call 770-609-9062.

Craft Beer & Wine 9 Acworth Festival, hosted by Atlanta Beer

Festivals and Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department, is 1-5 p.m. on Senator Russell Avenue in downtown Acworth. The sixth annual event will feature 100-plus beers, more than 25 wines, live music and food. Registration is required, and limited tickets are available. Registration includes event entry, a souvenir cup, entertainment, and beer and wine samples. The event is for adults 21 and older. No children, babies or pets allowed. For more information, visit www.acworthcraftbeerfest.com.

The City of Acworth will host a Veterans Day Ceremony at 2 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial at Patriots Point in Cauble Park. Mayor Tommy Allegood will be the keynote speaker. The memorial at Patriots Point features the service flags of all five branches of the military, surrounding the American flag. The concrete dome structure is surrounded by a walkway with engraved paver stones. Pavers may be purchased in honor of a veteran at www.acworthparksandrecreation.org or by calling 770-917-1234.

The Save Acworth History Foundation and Kennesaw Historical Society’s lecture series continues with Raymond Fordyce’s talk entitled “The Air War in Europe.” The event begins at 7 p.m. at the Roberts School in Acworth (4681 School St.). Fordyce is an 8th Air Force historian and son of Capt. RB Fordyce, who served three and a half years with an 8th Air Force bomber group, flying B-17s during World War II. 24

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Turkey leading the start of the “Little Pilgrim” Trot at last year's Turkey Chase event. Photo by Brittany Weir

14 Bases Gala

The 12th annual Covering the will be at the Tanyard Creek Overlook in the Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee St., and benefits the Horizon Field. The event includes dinner, live entertainment, and live and silent auctions. On-site child care will be free. To purchase tickets, or for more information on sponsorships, contact Lauren Ham at lham@ acworth.org or 770-917-1234.

16 Tour

The fifth annual Acworth Charm , hosted by Brookwood Christian School and Acworth Cultural Arts Center, is a fundraiser for dyslexia reading programs and performing arts scholarships. The event features six historic homes in Acworth and the original city jail for the day tour, and four additional homes and a church on the candlelight tour. For more information, visit Acworth Charm on Facebook. To go along with the historic tour festivities, the Holbrook is hosting a wine and cheese reception that afternoon, and the Serendipity House is offering a high tea for an additional fee.

23 Turkey Chase

The 11th annual Acworth 5K Fun Run & 2K Walk, presented by Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department, benefits the Tackle Hunger Program and the stocking of local food pantries. You can walk, jog or run, and it is open to all ages and abilities. Participants are asked to bring a nonperishable food item to receive their race number and T-shirt. 5K begins at 9 a.m., 2K walk at 9:15 a.m. on Main Street. Little Pilgrim Trot for children up to age 5 begins at 10 a.m. For details, visit www.acworthturkeychase.com.

30 Small Business Saturday Main Street will celebrate

on Nov. 30 with a Merchants Open House. Shop local and sample delicious treats in downtown stores. Don’t miss the incredible deals at this unique shopping event.

F191850-L - Aroundabout Local 3.63x10

DECEMBER

The City of Acworth has partnered with NorthStar Church to host Santa’s Arrival in downtown Acworth on Senator Russell Avenue. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. and Santa is scheduled to arrive at 6:30 p.m. There will be a host of live performances and activities until 8:30 p.m. to help Santa kick off the holiday season. Bring the family to hear Mayor Tommy Allegood read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and watch the lighting of the tree on the plaza behind Henry’s. Pictures with Santa are free and begin at 6:45 p.m., but there will be no photographer onsite so bring your camera.

Go Ahead, Start Dreaming… WE’LL TAKE CARE OF THE REST

Acworth Presbyterian Church will hold a Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the fellowship hall. Lunch will be served for a $5 donation – soup, bread, drink and cookie. There will be gifts, homemade items and lots of Christmas decorations. The money raised will go to buying new front doors for the church’s 150-yearold building. This kicks off the church’s campaign to raise funds for repairs on the historic building at 4561 Church St., Acworth.

7, 14

Come celebrate Christmas in Acworth these two Saturdays as Santa will be at the Depot on Main Street at 1 p.m. for story time, followed by pictures with Santa from 2-5 p.m. Pictures are free, but be sure to bring your camera as no photographer will be onsite. There will also be free horse and carriage rides available Dec. 14, departing from Senator Russell Avenue. While downtown, visit Frana Brown Park where local schools, businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees for the Festival of Trees.

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Youth Dec. 14

Breakfast with The Grinch. He’s been on the naughty list, but he’s trying to be nice! Enjoy breakfast beginning at 9 a.m. while the Grinch visits each table for photo opportunities and to share Christmas wishes. After breakfast, create Grinch-themed ornaments and crafts. Space is limited and each family member attending must register online. Residents $10, nonresidents $15.

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Community Classes

Dance Social Workshop (Country Western)

Nov. 15 at 6 p.m. at the Roberts School Community Center. Dance Resolution Coach Gabriele Norris kicks off the event with a workshop-style dance lesson. Any experience is welcome. Hors d’oeuvres and nonalcoholic beverages will be provided. Optional themed attire qualifies dancers for a costume and dance contest. Workshop admission is $10. Register online.

Zumba Fitness

Zumba combines high-energy Latin music and international rhythms with unique and easy to follow moves and combinations. All fitness and skill levels welcome. Two sessions will be offered in November, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. $25 for residents, $30 for nonresidents. Register online.

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AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Wanted: Calling All Entrepreneurs BY RYAN BLYTHE

This fall, many of our great Acworth businesses will host Small Business Saturday, an annual event between Black Friday and Cyber Monday that promotes the local businesses that support this community and communities across America. One doesn’t have to go far to see why small business is vital — take a look at the sponsor wall for North Cobb High School’s football booster club. Chances are, you won’t find a Fortune 500 company there, but, instead, the family-owned independents and franchises that embrace all things Acworth. Unfortunately, this important class of people is dwindling. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a division of the Department of Commerce, the number of startups has declined by 44% since the late 1970s. Researchers suggest several factors for this decline, including insufficient capital access, hiring challenges, dated immigration policies and high taxes and regulations. While we celebrate the Mark Zuckerbergs of the world, the notion of a young person launching a startup is somewhat mythical. In the mid-1990s, 20- to 30-something entrepreneurs accounted for 35% of new businesses; today that number is 18%. Young people seem to lack the confidence of previous generations in launching businesses. After experiencing the Great Recession, high unemployment and historic student loan debt, millennials might not have the stomach for the risk that comes with being your own boss. Additionally, with 10,000 baby boomers retiring daily, and without an influx of ambitious people (perhaps immigrants), the U.S. may not be able to curtail small business decline.

Real estate also is a factor. It can be difficult to find space, even with a thriving business. There are only so many locations in a builtout suburban county like Cobb, and large companies are building additional stores at a significantly higher rate than in past decades. You can find a Starbucks at every exit off I-75, but that independent coffee shop may take some effort to locate. Finally, we need help from government. For too long, economic developers have prioritized incentives to just large companies. There's a significant buzz if an employer promises 1,000 jobs; what about incubating 50 small businesses instead? We need fewer category kings and more choice. Beyond community involvement, why does small business formation matter? The ideas that are created are disproportionately responsible for innovation, productivity and economic growth. If you are ambitious and creative, don’t fall for the trap that you may be too old to launch a business. While some young people find success, it is far from the norm. Harvard Business Review studies suggest the average age of a successful entrepreneur is 45, and more experienced founders have higher success in both sales and employment growth. The research points to performance peaking in your late 50s. In other words, there’s plenty of time to pursue your big idea.

Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which, for the fourth consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.

The Cost of Unexpected Long Term Care BY JOSHUA NELSON

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that 70% of Americans who reach the age of 65 will need some form of long-term care for an average of three years. Based on my experience, I know that most elderly people have failed to plan for long-term care, even though many eventually will need it. Although aging seniors definitely are worried about the need for long-term care, most people don’t like contemplating a future of poor health, disability and eventual death. I have found these to be their three principal concerns: • Remaining independent in the home without intervention from others. • Maintaining good health and receiving adequate health care. • Having enough money for everyday needs, and not outliving assets and income. The fear of not being able to maintain their lifestyle can be devastating to the elderly. No wonder many elderly care recipients withdraw, become angry and suffer from severe depression. The cost of care can be enormous. Fortunately, family caregivers, friends and community organizations, such as churches, provide most of the care services in this country at no cost. At some point, these nonpaid volunteers become overwhelmed, and cannot handle the scope of services needed for many long-term care 26

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

recipients. Even worse, some who need care don’t have family or community support to provide that care. This means paid commercial services are needed. Genworth Insurance Co. provides an annual survey on the costs of home care, assisted living and nursing homes across the country in various cities and regions. The latest survey, from 2018, reveals the median cost of U.S. care services for a single individual is the following: Homemaker services — $4,004 a month Home health aides — $4,195 a month Assisted living — $4,000 a month Nursing home, semi-private room — $7,441 a month Nursing home, private room — $8,365 a month Just three years of these kinds of out-of-pocket expenses would wipe out $280,000 to $500,000 of retirement savings, depending on the facility. Long-term care is typically not what retirement savings were intended to pay for.

Joshua Nelson is an elder care law attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 900, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA, 30189. www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Why TrueVision Is the Clear Choice for Your Family I n 2006, Dr. Brian Mays and Dr. John Valle saw a need to provide families, like their own, with a higher level of eye care in the most updated and technologically advanced office. Their vision of family eye care didn’t exist in the Acworth area, so the pair opened TrueVision Eyecare, across the street from its current location. “We raised our families in the area, and know the importance of having outstanding health care near your home,” Dr. Valle said. TrueVision Eyecare opened 13 years ago in a 1,400-square-foot space with one employee. In 2016, the Acworth business moved next to Mellow Mushroom in a new 4,500-square-foot office with 18 employees, allowing the practice to grow alongside the Acworth community. Today, TrueVision Eyecare continues to provide comprehensive eye care for the entire family, and offers one of the largest selections of frames and sunglasses in Acworth. The clinic treats a variety of eye conditions, including trauma, foreign body

Dr. Julie Poteet on a pediatric consult. 28

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Dr. John Valle examines a patient.

removal, glaucoma and dry eye, as well as management of various red-eye conditions. OPTIMAL PATIENT CARE The practice comanages the treatment of many eye diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. TrueVision works with many local surgical groups to provide patients with pre- and post-operative care of these conditions, as well as LASIK. A dry-eye clinic and vision therapy treatments are available in the office, as well. The dry-eye clinic evaluates and treats each patient’s individual symptoms, while providing possible treatment solutions. The vision therapy service provides an individualized program of eye exercises and other methods to treat nonrefractive vision problems, such as eye alignment and lazy eye. The practice’s other services include pediatric eye health exams, nutritional consulting and emergency medical eye care. “Our leading technology allows us to provide optimal care to our patients,” said Barbara Valle, director of marketing. “We have Optos, which gives us a broad 200-degree view of the retina that helps detect early signs of retinal detachment, tumors, damage

from diabetes and high blood pressure.” TrueVision uses an Icare tonometer for no-puff eye pressure checks and an Oculus keratograph, which allows doctors to thoroughly analyze the front of the eye, cornea and tear film. This gives the doctors at TrueVision the ability to detect diseases in the front of the eye as well as dry eye. “Our patient care is the most important aspect of our business,” Dr. Mays said. “We have state-ofthe-art technology, which guides us in assessing the health of your eye and overall health.” The clinic’s latest medical addition is optical coherence tomography (OCT). This shows, in detail, parts of the eye at a microscopic level, to determine early signs of macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetes. “Our primary goal is to exceed the expectations of our patients every day,” Dr. Valle said. “We care for our patients by verifying every patient’s insurance benefits and educating them on how to maximize them.” EXTENSIVE OPTICAL SHOP The on-site optical shop has a wide selection of fashion eyewear, including a large sunglasses selection, as well as designer and

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AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Downtown Acworth Dining Bert & Boo's Bake Shop

Bakery 3900 Old McEver Rd. 470-582-6717 bertandboos.com Facebook: @bertboos

BRIX on Main

Nibbles Grill

Seafood 5657, 3979 S. Main St. 770-974-2323 newsite.fishthymerestaurant.com

Grill/Diner-Breakfast Burgers 4628 S. Main St. 404-312-7597 nibblesgrillacworth.com

Fusco's via Roma Italian Trattoria

Pizza By Fuscos

Tapas 4843 N. Main St. 770-693-0077 brixonmain.com

Italian 4815A S. Main St. 770-974-1110 fuscosviaroma.com Facebook: @fuscosviaroma

Center Street Tavern

J.D.’s Bar-B-Que

Rico’s Mex Mex Grill

4424 S. Main St. 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com

Mexican 3770 Southside Dr. 770-917-9791 Facebook: @Ricos-Mex-Mex-Grill

American/ Traditional 4381 Senator Russell Ave. 770-917-0004 centerstreettavern.com

Dogwood Terrace

American/ Traditional 4975 N. Main St. 770-627-4069 dogwoodterraceacworth.com

Doro’s Italian Restaurant Italian 4417 S. Main St. 678-903-2607 dorositalian.com

Fish Thyme Restaurant and Bar

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Barbeque

Henry’s Louisiana Grill Cajun 4835 N. Main St. 770-966-1515 chefhenrys.com

Miss L’s Sandwich Shop Sandwiches

4817 S. Main St. 770-966-9709 Facebook: @Miss-Ls-Sandwich-Shop

Pizza 4815B S. Main St. 678-426-7503 pizzabyfuscos.com

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Know Your Car Insurance Coverage — Part 2 BY ROBERT TIDWELL

What happens when you are injured in a wreck you did not cause and the at-fault driver either has no car insurance or not enough? Georgia law requires every policy of liability car insurance sold must include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage equal to the amount of liability coverage you purchase. See O.C.G.A. §33-7-11(a). In other words, if you purchase $100,000 of liability insurance on your car, the policy automatically includes $100,000 of UM coverage. However, you have the ability to choose not to purchase that automatic UM coverage. To further complicate matters, you also may choose to purchase UM coverage in an amount less than your liability insurance. In this scenario, you may have purchased $100,000 of liability insurance but chose $25,000 of UM coverage. In either scenario, the insurance company will have you sign a rejection of UM coverage when you purchase your policy. The insurance agent may offer one of these options to you as a way of saving a few dollars on your policy. It is seldom worth it. Under no circumstances, however, are you allowed to purchase more UM coverage than liability coverage. There are basically two ways UM coverage comes into play. Under Georgia law, an at-fault driver is uninsured if he 1) does not have any automobile liability insurance¹, or 2) does not have enough automobile liability insurance to cover your claim against him. The first instance is not complicated. If the at-fault driver does not have liability insurance, you make your claim against your UM carrier to answer for his negligence. Your claim includes medical bills you incurred, as well as your pain and suffering. Your insurance company is responsible for covering your claim as if it was the company insuring the person who hurt you. After your UM carrier pays the claim, it can pursue repayment from the at-fault driver through subrogation, if the at-fault driver’s identity is known. Looking to your UM carrier when the at-fault driver does not have enough insurance is when Georgia law gets quirky. In Georgia, unlike any other state, there are two types of UM

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

coverage. The first is referred to as set off UM and the second is referred to as add on UM. Assume you have a claim worth $150,000 and that you have $100,000 of UM coverage while the at-fault driver has only $50,000 of liability insurance. If you have set off UM, the at-fault driver’s insurance would pay $50,000 and then your UM carrier would pay $50,000. In other words, the $100,000 of your UM coverage is set off by the $50,000 of liability insurance carried by the at-fault driver. In this example, you would be left coming out of pocket for the remaining $50,000 of your claim, as there is not enough insurance to cover it. However, the outcome would be quite different with add on coverage. Add on UM coverage does just that, it is coverage that adds on to the available liability insurance. So, in this example, the at-fault driver’s insurance would pay $50,000 and your UM coverage would pay $100,000. With add on UM coverage, your entire claim would be covered. Many clients worry that making use of their UM coverage will cause their car insurance to be canceled or premiums to increase. Fortunately, the Georgia State Legislature has protected us from such a possibility. Recognizing that you have done nothing wrong when you find yourself in need of using your UM coverage, your insurance company cannot raise your rates, or refuse to renew your policy, just because you make an uninsured motorist claim. See O.C.G.A. §33-9-40, §33-23-45. ¹Hit and run drivers fall under category 1, as do phantom drivers who run you off the road. However, if a phantom driver causes a wreck without actually hitting your vehicle, you must have testimony from a third party witness corroborating the phantom vehicle’s involvement. The third party witness may be a passenger in your car, even if that passenger is making a claim against the phantom driver as well.

Robert Tidwell is a personal injury trial lawyer at Tidwell Strimban, LLC in Woodstock, where he lives with his bride Lori, and their two daughters. www.tidwellstrimban.com.

Make Your Home Cozy BY PACITA WILSON

Now that fall and cooler weather are here, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to add some cozy, warm accents to our homes to reflect this beautiful season of family gatherings and thankfulness. Just as leaves change color and fall to the ground, adding texture to our lawns, we can add layers and textures to our fall tablescapes, helping bring the season into our homes. Neutral tones, plaids, fun chunky chargers, unique napkins - all work to bring the feeling of fall to your table. For added effect, place acorn accents and stems of greenery for texture, and pumpkins for a touch of color. Along with some beautiful stemware, your table will feel cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to share moments of gratitude and love this season. You can achieve this same feeling in your living space by replacing your light-weight summer throw, with a soft, knobby textured blanket â&#x2C6;&#x2019; perfect for snuggling up on a chilly night. Pillows are another fabulous way to change the overall feel of a room, in just mere seconds. Swap out neutral linen-colored pillows with a velvet or cable knit pillows. It will instantly cozy up your family gathering space.

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

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

School News KSU Griffin's Game Raises Money for Local Family The Kennesaw State University volleyball team recently held its fifth annual Griffin’s Game event and raised $7,378 for a local family battling childhood cancer. This year the Owls honored 12-year-old Daniel Jones, who has acute lymphoblastic leukemia for the second time. The money raised through the Griffin’s Game initiatives will help the Jones family with medical expenses. Jones originally was diagnosed with leukemia at age 3, and went through treatment for three and a half years. He relapsed in 2017 at the age of 10. Jones’ bond with his brother, Dylan, 14, has helped him through his relapse treatment of chemotherapy and radiation. Jones has taken an older sibling role and watches out for his older brother, who is on the autism spectrum, reading to him and helping him spell when they play Xbox together. Griffin’s Game is named for KSU head coach Keith Schunzel and volunteer assistant Briana Schunzel’s son, Griffin, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2015. Griffin’s treatments ended June of 2018. He is now healthy and 6 years old. He enjoys playing sports and helping collect donations for local families each year at Griffin’s Game. “The message of Griffin’s Game is twofold,” Keith Schunzel said. “One, we want these families to know they’re not alone. The second part of this is that I want our team, all the people around KSU, and really anybody in our world, to know that sport is sport; this is life.” In each of the past five years, the team has chosen a local family to support and help with medical expenses. With donations rising each year, the Schunzels and the KSU volleyball program have been able to raise more than $27,000 for local families in need. Right, Griffin Schunzel, left, collects donations with a friend for a local family battling childhood cancer.

Daniel Jones, in the gold shirt, and his family were honored at KSU’s Griffin’s Game. 40

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Earline Gaither, a real-life Rosie the Riveter, with Georgia Trade School staff after speaking with students.

Georgia Trade School Welcomes Real-Life Rosie the Riveter Georgia Trade School recently hosted Earline Gaither to speak to classes about her experiences working in a war plane factory in Michigan during World War II. She is a member of the American Rosie the Riveter Association. American “Rosies” worked as riveters, sanders, welders, crane operators, uniform makers, bullet makers, parachute folders, assembly line workers and much more. They came from all over the U.S., and built 80,000 landing craft, 100,000 tanks, 300,000 aircraft, 15 million guns, and 41 billion rounds of ammunition. Their hard work and dedication helped the U.S. and the Allied powers win the war. Gaither was born in 1925 and joined the war effort in 1942, working on an assembly line manufacturing war planes for the U.S. and the Allies. She oiled guns, installed flying instruction manuals and added the night-flying curtains for the planes sent out for service, which was one plane per hour. She has been married 77 years this December; her husband will turn 100 years old in December. Hearing Gaither’s story allowed the GTS students to experience history in a new way.

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

School News Fourth Graders Shop for MUST Ministries Fourth graders at North Cobb Christian School recently raised money for a class grocery shopping trip to Publix. The students used the money they raised to purchase food for MUST Ministries, and delivered the groceries to the MUST offices. According to the fourth graders, giving back has never been so much fun, and neither has math. The exercise served as a real-world application of their current math unit, as students budgeted, shopped and made change. MUST serves eight counties by providing groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, housing, summer lunches for children, workforce development, clothing, toy shops and neighborhood pantries in 33 schools.

NCCS students won first place at Marietta’s Chalktoberfest with this Marvel comics design.

North Cobb Christian School Wins Chalktoberfest Students from North Cobb Christian School’s upper school Visual Arts Academy won first place in the high school competition at Marietta's Chalktoberfest last month. Congratulations to the students and their instructor, Nate Rupp. Chalktoberfest is presented by the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art and is a combination of the city’s annual chalk art festival and craft beer festival.

Cobb Schools Team Up Against Drugs With NFL Player Cobb Schools teamed up against drugs with Oakland Raiders tight end, and Cobb alum, Darren Waller, for a free event Oct. 10 at the North Cobb Performing Arts Center. Waller shared his inspirational journey, including his highs and lows and the impact of drug abuse. The event also featured Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood, Mike Linch from NorthStar Church, North Cobb High School Head Football Coach Shane Queen, Falcons Cheerleader Ambassadors, and Missy Owen of the Davis Direction Foundation. In addition to the Oct. 10 event, Waller used his week off from NFL football to raise awareness and spark action against drug abuse in his home community by visiting Baker Elementary, Awtrey Middle School and North Cobb High School. 42

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

NCCS fourth graders grocery shop for MUST Ministries.

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AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

A birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-eye view of Main Street during the event from the newly opened pedestrian bridge.

A chef hard at work cooking for the masses. 44

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

A performance by the Ensemble Minis group from Great Gig Dance Co., owned by Tammy Everhart.

Sampling Acworthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Culinary Delights PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO

One of Acworthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest parties of the year took place Oct. 12, as Taste of Acworth invaded Main Street. The annual event was sponsored by the city, the Acworth Business Association and Superior Plumbing. Congratulations to the 2019 Taste of Acworth winners!

Best Booth

Pearl's Spa and Boutique

Best Appetizer

Henry's Louisiana Grill & Henry's Uptown

Best Entree

Fusco's Via Roma

Best Dessert

Cakehouse on Main

Best Presentation

Celebration Village Acworth

Ed Jackson and Don Akers man the North Cobb American Legion Post 304 booth.

The grill for a Jamaican restaurant booth.

Melissa and David Dembowitz take a break to eat a quick bite.

The Heyliger family is ready for a yummy lunch. AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Santa Jay of Acworth has been a Legendary Santa for three years.

More than Milk and Cookies

Legendary Santa University is Serious Business BY KATIE BEALL

The time between Black Friday and Christmas is shorter this year, so everyone is getting an early jump on the festivities, including professional Santas in the area. The St. Nicks enrolled at Legendary Santa University gathered for classes at the Acworth Beach House in September. The professional Santa school — yes, that’s a real thing — is one of five such schools in Georgia, as the state boasts the largest number of full-bearded Santas in the country, according to Santa Thomas, co-founder of Legendary Santa University. To become a professional Santa, you must attend a Santa school and look the part, which means having a real beard. There are numerous schools in the U.S. that prepare Santas. The largest is the C.W. Howard School of Santas in Michigan, where more than 300 Santas parked their sleighs for a three-day class this year. While Legendary Santa University didn’t draw 300 attendees, it did see about 60 Santas invade the Acworth Beach House. The 46

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

school’s location rotates throughout North Georgia and, this year, thanks to Santa Jay, a local professional Santa, the school landed in Acworth. Classes attracted professional Santas, Mrs. Clauses and elves from South Carolina, Tennessee and Florida, as well as North Georgia. “You don’t choose to be a Santa Claus, it chooses you,” Santa Jay said. “It’s a calling.” Sessions included clothing and wardrobe, beard and hair maintenance, storytelling, marketing yourself, being photogenic, booking film and stage jobs, entertainment insurance, and classes for Mrs. Clauses and elves on how to support Santa. Santas also learned how to deal with children with disabilities, children in grief, and those speaking other languages, including signing. All Legendary Santas know how to sign “Merry Christmas, have you been a good boy/girl?” “Every child has the right to have a visit with Santa Claus, but not every child is the same,” Santa Jay said. “We talk about how to work with the parents to know if physical touch — hugs, high fives, sitting on his lap or next to him — is OK or not.”

SANTA SAYS ...

“I had a child last year tell me he wanted his mom back, who had a stroke that year,” Santa Jay said. “In school, we learn how to deal with children in grief. We’re basically improv When parents fear introducing Santa will take actors. We don’t have a script, and have to learn how to away from the religious aspect of Christmas ... respond when they say something about a family member.” “If children realize that there is a man that will give As with other professional conferences, vendors attend them toys, and all they have to do is try to be good, Legendary Santa University, offering Santas the opportunity to then it helps them understand the concept of someone purchase clothing and accessories, like belts, bells and other loving them unconditionally.” — Santa Thomas important gadgets. When a grieving child asks for something Santa Hairdressers also lead sessions on caring for Santa’s hair can’t deliver … and beard. Santa Jay visits his specialized hairdresser every six “We tell them we can’t bring your parents back weeks to keep his beard white. Legendary Santas don’t just or cure them, but we’ll say a prayer and ask Jesus to play Santa seasonally, they’re Santa year-round, so keeping help. We don’t lie to them.” — Santa Jay their white beards pristine takes effort. “Our school specializes in becoming a Legendary Santa,” To parents who are on the fence about the Santa Thomas said. “When you book one of these Santas, Santa thing … you’re getting the best. Santa Lou, who co-founded the “I think Santa is very important, and not because school with me, is the house Santa for one of the top hotels of the gifts. It’s not what’s under the tree that is [St. Regis] in Atlanta.” important, it’s who’s around it. It teaches children to Other Legendary Santas can be seen this season at the Mall give and to dream.” — Santa Thomas of Georgia, malls in California and Florida, sporting events, and even Disney World’s Epcot. Santa Jay is an event Santa When kids ask about the North Pole and the elves… and mostly books special appearances, but he can be seen at “All Santa Clauses have their own back stories. We The Battery Atlanta for four days this year, in addition to about all create what we call our own North Pole, for when 150 billboards around town. Santa Thomas can be seen in we’re asked about how many elves we have or what “Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses,” a Hallmark Channel we do before we get in the sleigh on Christmas Eve. Christmas movie that premiered Oct. 26. The children love the background stories, and we School also convenes in the spring. While fall sessions are work on those together at the schools, and bounce spent preparing for the upcoming season, spring classes focus ideas off each other.” — Santa Jay on acting, and booking jobs throughout the year. One of the When a young child asks for gifts parents can’t group’s Mrs. Clauses works at Give Kids the World in Orlando, afford… where she visits with Make a Wish Foundation families. “I tell them there’s lots of children in the world, “Our job is to teach the Santas how to stand out,” Santa and I have to have room for other gifts, too. I tell Thomas said. “We want everyone who sees them to think they parents to get a box and crayons and let them play are the real Santa. No one wants the understudy.” with those. That box can be anything they want it to Professional Santas start booking jobs in September. Santa be and they’ll love it.” — Santa Thomas Jay said that, by the first week of October, he already was booked for the season. “The Santa Claus community is like a brotherhood,” Santa Jay said. “We want all of the Santa Clauses to be successful. There’s plenty of business to go around. We’re all about helping each other.” The university was founded three years ago by Santa Thomas and Santa Lou. The pair were members of another school, but decided to branch off, because the other school started teaching things Santa Thomas and Santa Lou felt were not keeping with the tradition of Santa Claus. “They were wanting Santas to stay away from Christianity,” said Santa Thomas, who points out that religion is only mentioned if a child asks. “Santa derived from Saint Nicholas. That’s part of the character we portray. If it wasn’t for Jesus, we wouldn’t have Christmas, and there would be a lot of fat bearded men without a job.” Some of the Legendary Santa University attendees at the Acworth Beach House in September. AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

@ the Library Nov. 12, 19, 26

Nov. 14

10:30-11 a.m. Children ages 1-2 are invited for fun and age-appropriate songs, stories and rhymes that enhance your child’s early literacy and social skills. Requires a participating adult.

2-3 p.m. Terri Carter from the Family and Consumer Science department of the UGA Extension Service shares how green tea can be used instead of regular tea or coffee and explain how tea is grown and harvested. Wear a fancy hat and bring a favorite tea cup for relaxing with friends. Light refreshments will be served. Call to register.

Toddler Storytime

Preschool Storytime

11:30 a.m.-noon. Children ages 3-5 are invited for fun and age-appropriate songs, stories, and activities that enhance your child’s early literacy and social skills. May include a craft or short film. Requires a participating adult.

Nov. 12

Sherlock Holmes Story Discussions

6:30-8 p.m. Join the North Cobb Irregulars. Meets monthly on the second Tuesday of each month. Presented by Helen Cauley, writer and President Emerita of the Sherlock Holmes Society of Georgia. This month’s stories are The Adventure of the Dancing Men from “The Return of Sherlock Holmes” and The Adventure of the Five Orange Pips from “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.”

Nov. 13

African-American Book Discussion

Tea Time

Tween Activity: Drawing Cute Animals

4-5 p.m. Learn how to draw super cute animals from a graduate in Kennesaw State University’s undergraduate art program. This program is for students ages 8-12 only. No registration required.

Nov. 18

Artist’s Afternoon Basics: Watercolor Techniques

6-7 p.m. Every third Monday of the month, experiment with different art mediums that give your mind a chance to relax, unwind, explore and create. The class will be led by a KSU graduate in drawing and painting. No experience needed. All materials provided. For ages 16 and older. Registration required.

Nov. 20

7-8:30 p.m. Join for a new African-American book discussion series that features noteworthy AfricanAmericans in history. The book for discussion is “Invisible: The forgotten story of the black woman lawyer who took down America’s most powerful mobster” by Stephen L. Carter.

Book Discussion

Nov. 13, 20

Meetup for Adults with Special Needs

NaNoWriMo Write-In for Kids

6:30-8 p.m. Young authors participating in National Novel Writing Month 2019 are invited to the North Cobb children’s department for NaNoWriMo write in for kids. The library provides a quiet space to meet other young authors and to work on projects. Program for children in grades 1-6.

Nov. 13, 20, 27

Baby Lapsit Storytime

10:30-10:50 a.m. Pre-walking babies, ages 0-18 months, parents and caregivers are invited for fun and ageappropriate songs, rhymes, and stories that enhance your child’s early literacy and social skills.

School Age Adventures

4-4:45 p.m. Elementary school-age students are invited for stories and a fun activity. A movie or craft may be included. Parents/caregivers are expected to remain in the building during the program. 48

North Cobb Regional Library • 3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw 770-801-5320 • www.cobbcat.org/venue/north-cobb-regional-library/

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

1-2:30 p.m. Join a book discussion with coffee/tea and friends. November's selection is Fredrik Backman’s “A Man Called Ove.” Books are available at North Cobb Regional Library's information desk. No registration necessary.

Nov. 21, 28, Dec. 5

10:30-11:30 a.m. Adults with special needs and their caregivers are invited to join every Thursday morning for a fun group activity and meeting new friends. Activities may include storytime, art projects, Lego building, music and other fun things. No registration is required.

Nov. 25

Family Movie and Craft Night

6-8:30 p.m. Join for a family movie and themed craft night in the North Cobb children’s department. This month’s movie is “Up” (rated PG, 96 minutes). Craft time starts at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at 7 p.m. Bring pillows, blankets, or sleeping bags to sit on.

Dec. 4

NaNoWriMo Young Authors’ Tea

6:30-7:30 p.m. Did you participate in November’s NaNoWriMo? Come celebrate your accomplishments with other young authors by sharing your work and enjoying some light refreshments. This program is for children in grades 1-6.

Senior Activities CITY OF ACWORTH

COBB COUNTY

Parks and Recreation Department 770-917-1234 • www.acworthparksandrecreation.org

North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St, Acworth • 770-975-7740

Nov. 15

Nov. 13

This Smithsonian-affiliated museum in downtown Kennesaw is home to the famous General locomotive. Depart from the Acworth Community Center at 10 a.m. Residents $9, nonresidents $14. Register online or in person at 4361 Cherokee St.

1-2 p.m. Gather to prepare make-ahead casserole favorites that family and friends will cherish. Residents $3, nonresidents $4.

Trip to the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History.

Nov. 20

Active Adult Luncheon includes lunch, bingo and other special activities

Culinary Creations: Here Come the Casseroles.

Nov. 14

Managing Stress. 10-11 a.m. Free, but registration is

at Tanyard Creek Overlook at the Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee St. Lunch is served at noon. Bingo with prizes after lunch. Free.

required. This introductory class helps identify stressors, methods to manage stress, and ways to prevent stress, using relaxation, imaging, breathing and exercise.

Wednesdays

Nov. 19

Registration required. Maintain balance and flexibility while using a chair for support. Chair yoga offers a practical alternative to traditional yoga. These classes at the Acworth Community Center deepen flexibility and strengthen the body. Classes are Wednesdays through Nov. 27 and Dec. 4-18.

registration is required (deadline Nov. 15). Whip up your special mac ’n’ cheese recipe and dressing for the annual Thanksgiving potluck lunch. Sign up to bring a side. Turkey, dessert and drinks are provided.

Mary’s Chair Yoga. 10-11 a.m. Residents $20, nonresidents $25.

Fridays

Mary’s Gentle Yoga. 10-11 a.m. Residents $20, nonresidents $25.

Registration required. Maintain balance and flexibility through gentle nonstrenuous yoga poses. Classes are Fridays through Nov. 22 and Dec. 6-27.

ALOHA TO AGING 4608 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 770-722-7641• info@alohatoaging.org

Nov. 19

Dementia Caregiver Support Group. 10: 30-11:30 a.m., meets at

Burnt Hickory Baptist Church, 5145 Due West Road, Powder Springs. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one, in or out of the home. Free respite care is provided for loved ones during the meeting; call 770-722-7641 to reserve a spot. For additional evening support groups, visit www.alohatoseniors.com/events.

Dec. 3

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Group discussion, for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner, on helpful tips and resources that provide comfort and encouragement. For more info, call 770-722-7641 or email info@alohatoaging.org.

Tuesdays

Aloha Day Club meets 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to adults age 55 and

older who no longer are driving and need engaging activities outside of their homes. Participants range from 55 to 96 years young. The 3.5-hour program includes a morning snack, art, games, music, trivia, lunch and 50 minutes of seated exercise.

Thanksgiving Potluck. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free, but

Dec. 3

Tackling Technology: Shopping on Amazon. 10:3011:30 a.m. Free, but registration is required. Just in time for holiday shopping, get introduced to shopping on the popular website Amazon.com. Learn how to search for products, compare prices, and evaluate product reviews.

Dec. 5

AARP Smart Driver. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. AARP members $15, nonmembers $20. Bring lunch. Check with your insurance agent about a possible discount for taking this class.

Paint ’n Party. 10 a.m.-noon. Learn basic techniques, such as shading, controlling tones, composition and drawing methods. Residents $3, nonresidents $4.

Transitional Guidance. 10-11 a.m. Free, but registration

is required. With so many care options available, it can be difficult to know not only what kind is best, but also, when it is best. This seminar is designed to assist during the uncertain journey from one home to a new home.

Keep It Moving. 1-2 p.m. Free, but registration is

required. Movement is key in preventing illnesses, diseases and impacts how our immune system functions. Learn ways to keep moving through the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Dec. 9

Culinary Creations: ’Tis the Season of Giving.

1-2 p.m. Learn to make homemade spice blends and sweet and savory treats that will impress. Residents $3, nonresidents $4. AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

COMMUNITY OF FAITH Awtrey-Westwood Baptist Church 5855 Awtrey Church Road NW 770-974-0023

Piney Grove Baptist Church 1605 Mars Hill Road 770-428-5122 www.PineyGrove.net

Calvary Baptist Church of Acworth 4361 Westside Drive 770-974-4965 www.CalvaryBaptistAcworth.org

Sardis Missionary Baptist Church 2741 S. Main St., Kennesaw 770-428-4031 www.SardisMBCKennesawGA.org

Cedarcrest Church 4600 Cobb Pkwy NW 678-460-3500 www.CedarcrestChurch.com

Summit Baptist Church 4310 Moon Station Lane NW 770-975-4595 www.SummitChurch.org

BAPTIST

First Baptist Church of Acworth 4583 Church St. 770-974-3021 www.FBCAcworth.com Glade Road Baptist Church 6570 Glade Road SE 770-975-1143 www.GladeRoadBaptist.com

Thankful Baptist Church of Kennesaw 928 Kennesaw Due West Road NW 678-797-0611 www.ThankfulBaptistKennesaw.org The Entire Bible Baptist Church 4980 Cobb Parkway North NW 770-975-1100

Harvest Baptist Church 3460 Kellogg Creek Road 770-974-9091 www.HBCGA.org

Three Taverns Church 3575 Acworth Due West Road 678-856-8002 www.ThreeTavernsChurch.org

Hickory Grove Baptist Church 2862 Hickory Grove Road 770-943-9856

Victory Baptist Church 5717 Priest Road 770-337-0952 www.VictoryBaptist.net

Hillcrest Baptist Church 6069 Woodstock Road 770-917-9100 www.HBCAcworth.org Iron Hill Baptist Church 5172 Groovers Landing Road SE 770-974-2951 www.IronhillBaptist.org Keystone Baptist Church 3303 Dallas Acworth Highway Acworth, Georgia 30101 www.KeystoneOnline.org Lost Mountain Baptist Church 5400 Old Dallas Road, Powder Springs www.lmbc.us Morning View Baptist Church 3750 Dallas Acworth Highway www.MorningViewBaptistChurch.org Mount Olivet Baptist Church 2385 Acworth Due West Road 770-974-8335 New Hope Baptist Church 3800 New Hope Church Road SE 770-974-7612 www.NewHopeChurchAcworth.com New Life Community Church 4160 New Hope Church Road SE 770-529-0509 Pickett’s Mill Baptist Church 7147 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 770-423-0955 www.PMBChurch.net 50

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

West Ridge Church 3522 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 770-222-2125 www.Westridge.com Western Hills Baptist Church 700 Mars Hill Road, Kennesaw 770-425-7118 www.WesternHillsBaptist.net Wildwood Baptist Church 4801 Wade Green Road NW 770-428-2100 www.WildwoodBaptist.org Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church 4255 Taylor St. 770-974-8221 www.ZionHillAcworth.com

EPISCOPAL

Christ Episcopal Church 1210 Wooten Lake Road NW 770-422-9114 www.ChristChurchKennesaw.com St. Teresa’s Episcopal Church 5725 Fords Road 770-590-9040 www.StTeresasAcworth.com

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness 2515 Old Highway 92 770-672-6838

JUDAISM

Chabad Jewish Center of Kennesaw 1480 Shiloh Road NW #500 678-460-7702 www.JewishWestCobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Synagogue Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220 678-264-8575 www.MyNerTamid.info

LUTHERAN

Christ Lutheran Church 176 West Sandtown Road SW, Marietta 770-424-2850 www.clcwestcobb.org Living Hope Lutheran Church 3450 Stilesboro Road, Kennesaw 770-425-6726 www.LivingHopeGA.com First United Lutheran Church 3481 Campus Loop Road, Kennesaw 770-427-0325 www.FULC.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Acworth Presbyterian Church 4561 Church St. 770-974-6552 Christ Community Church 2753 Watts Drive, Kennesaw 770-529-2600 www.ChristCommunityCobb.org Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Road 770-926-3558 www.HeritagePres.com Kirkwood Presbyterian Church USA 618 Acworth Due West Road NW, Kennesaw 770-427-3545 www.KirkwoodPC.org Mars Hill Presbyterian Church 3385 Mars Hill Road NW 770-974-4395 www.MHChurch.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC

St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church 1618 Ben King Road, Kennesaw 770-428-7139 www.StCatherineRCC.org St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church 6301 Cedarcrest Road 770-485-0825 www.StClareCC.org St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church 680 West Memorial Drive, Dallas 770-443-0566 www.SaintVincentDePaulChurch.org

METHODIST

Acworth United Methodist Church 4340 Collins Circle 770-974-3312 www.AcworthUMC.org County Line United Methodist Church 1183 County Line Road, NW 770-428-0511 www.CountyLineUMC.org Due West United Methodist Church 3956 Due West Road, Marietta 770-427-3835 www.DueWest.org Faith Methodist Meets at Harrison High School 4500 Due West Road, Kennesaw 678-995-9595 www.FaithMethodistChurch.org Kennesaw United Methodist Church 1801 Ben King Road, Kennesaw 770-428-1543 www.KennesawUMC.org

The Church At Acworth 6464 Highway 92 770-924-9161 www.TheChurchAtAcworth.com

Mission For Life Church 2655 Cobb Parkway, Suite 105, Kennesaw 678-613-9256 www.MissionForLife.org

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5055 Holt Road NW 770-974-9697

Mount Olives Church of God 5065 Cherokee St. 678-651-9042

Cobb Vineyard Church 3206 Old Highway 41 NW, Kennesaw 678-574-0005 www.CobbVineyard.com

New Covenant Full Gospel Inc 5653 Priest Road 770-974-0685

Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock 678-401-3069 www.ConnectChurchWoodstock.com Eagle Pointe Church 5100 Old Stilesboro Road NW 770-421-1643 www.EaglePointe.org Empowerment Worship Center 4192 Main St. 770-609-9062 www.EmpowermentWC.org

New Beginnings United Methodist Church 2975 Cobb Parkway NW, Kennesaw 770-421-9980 www.NBUMC.org

Faith Family Church 5744 Bells Ferry Road 770-926-4560 www.FaithFamilyAG.com

Shiloh United Methodist Church 3860 Cherokee St., Kennesaw 770-590-1333 www.NGUMC.org

Federation Of Apostles International Ministries Inc. 4192 S. Main St. Suite B, Acworth. 404-436-1100

OTHERS

Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-888-1515 www.Abiding.church Activation Church 221 Dabbs Bridge Road, Dallas www.ActivationChurch.com Acworth Christian Church 4476 Northside Drive 770-974-1358 Acworth Church of God of Prophecy Ministry 3891 Nance Road NW 770-975-1124 www.AcworthChurch.com

Four Points Church 3565 Dallas Acworth Highway 678-402-6632 www.FourPointsChurch.com Freedom Church 3611 Cobb Parkway 770-529-6006 www.FreedomChurch.tv Greater Church Meets at Barber Middle School 4222 Cantrell Road 770-927-8667 www.Greater.Church Household of Faith Bible Church 530 Collins Road, Marietta 770-365-6723 www.HOFBC.org

NorthStar Church 3413 Blue Springs Road 770-420-9808 www.NorthStarChurch.org Northwest Christian Church 3737 Dallas Acworth Highway 770-425-2525 www.NWCC.net Open Doors Church 2011 Hickory Grove Road Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.PrayerAndPraise.org River’s Edge Church 3450 Acworth Due West Road NW, Kennesaw 678-318-1918 www.RiversEdgeATL.com RiverStone Church 2005 Stilesboro Road, Kennesaw 678-384-5200 www.RiverStoneOnline.org RockPoint Church 3900 Legacy Park Blvd, Kennesaw 770-648-3070 www.TheRockPointChurch.org Sanctuary Church 700 Mars Hill Road, Kennesaw 770-884-1963 www.SanctuaryInHim.org Unity of Kennesaw Meets at Big Shanty Elementary, 1575 Ben King Road 404-644-0512 www.UnityOfKennesaw.org

Kellogg Creek Church of Christ 3510 Kellogg Creek Road 770-974-2814 www.KelloggCreekChurchOfChrist.org

Victory Church 4625 Highway 92 770-794-7366 www.VictoryGA.com

Bethel A.M.E. Church 4826 School St. 770-905-9539

LifeBridge Church 3102 Loring Road, Kennesaw 770-422-3010 www.MyLifeBridgeChurch.com

Vintage 242 Church 8492 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 678-506-8550 www.Vintage242.com

Calvary Chapel River Oaks 232 Nelson Street, Cartersville 770-272-6005 www.CalvaryChapelRiverOaks.org

Masjid Suffah 2750 Jiles Road, Kennesaw 770-906-0838 www.masjidsuffah.com

Wholistic Life Ministry 2210 Pine Mountain Road NW, Kennesaw 678-836-9586 www.WLMinistry.org

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road 770-917-4964 www.BranchesOfChrist.com

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Cobb Photographic Society Color Prints

Mark Chandler - 1st Place (Red)

Dee Dee Bonesteel - 2nd Place (Inside Looking Out)

Paul Shimek - 3rd Place (Crawling Face Masks)

Novice

Rhonda Zoloth - 1st Place (Burl & Swirl) 52

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Diane Vandeputte - 2nd Place (Social Feather Dusters)

Congratulations to each of you who entered the Cobb Photographic Society Competition. The topic for the September contest was â&#x20AC;&#x153;Patterns.â&#x20AC;? The guest judges were Michael Boatright (color and black and white) and CJ Andretta (novice). The Cobb Photographic Society is a photography club open to photographers of all skill levels. The club meets the first and third Monday of each month. www.cobbphotosociety.com.

Black & White Prints

Jeff Westland - 1st Place (The Slide)

Phyllis Westland - 2nd Place (Eye of the Zebra)

Chris Pietrzykowski - 3rd Place (Impermanence) AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

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ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

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

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implants Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

CHIROPRACTIC Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com

CLEANING SERVICES Carpet Dry Tech 678-368-5991 www.gracecounselingga.com

COUNSELING Grace Counseling 678-481-2183 www.thrivecounseling.com

Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org

EDUCATION/TUTORING

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AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Your CBD Store-Acworth 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com Your CBD Store-Woodstock 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com

HOME & GARDEN

Brookwood Christian 678-401-5855 www.brookwoodchristian.com

Carpet Dye Tech 678-368-5992 www.carpetdyetech.com

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

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com

Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com

Legacy Custom Blinds 404-430-5288 www.legacycustomblinds.com

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES Bay Equity Home Loans Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644 www.jayclosesloans.com

Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com Nelson Exteriors 678-283-8171 www.nelson-exteriors.com Pineapple Park 678-494-8494 Park Warehouse, The 678-401-4893 www.pineapplepark.com

FUNERAL SERVICES

CREDIT UNIONS

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

Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematory 37 770-422-7299

www.winkenhoferpineridgefuneralhome.com

34, 35

Southern Magnolia Landscaping 19 770-974-9676 Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com

INSURANCE State Farm Jeff Langley 770-628-5676

PHYSICIANS 17

OPTOMETRIST TrueVision Eye Care Cover, 1, 28, 29 770-529-7789 www.truevisioneyecare.com PEST CONTROL One Dead Bug 404-704-4685 www.onedeadbug.com

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 770-852-7720 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com

Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-924-9656 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com

Northside Hospital Cherokee Orthopedic Institute 404-847-4230 www.northside.com/orthopedic

REAL ESTATE

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

J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com

Anchor Realty Partners Malinda Howe, Broker Direct: 404-444-0225 Office: 770-917-0322 www.anchorrealtypartners.net

Debi Smith Properties Direct: 404-660-6652 Office: 770-240-2004 www.debismithproperties.com

Holbook of Acworth, The 404-445-7777 www.holbrooklife.com Lindsey Haas Team Direct line: 678-933-1962 Office: 770-240-2005 www.thehaasteam.net

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT Acworth Charm Historic Home Tour 404-491-7724

Acworth Turkey Chase 5K www.acworthturkeychase.org

Must Ministries Gobble Jog www.gobblejog.org

SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES Celebration Village 678-594-3570 www.cvillage.com

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

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

Around Acworth Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500

AROUND ACWORTH | November 2019

Best. Gift. Ever! Youth Savings Accounts APY*

5.00%

+ $50 Cash

There’s no better gift than good savings habits. And with our Youth Savings accounts, your kids will earn a merry 5.00%APY* on the first $1,000 (age 18-22 earn a huge 7.00%APY* on the first $1,000!) Best yet, open an account before December 20, and we’ll give them $50!** Make this the best holiday ever with a savings account from LGE. The smarter, merrier way to bank. Simply visit one of our convenient branches, or call 770-424-0060 for more information. Membership eligibility and $5 minimum balance required. *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rate effective 09/01/19 and applies to balances up to $1,000; balances greater than $1,000 earn lower rate. 5.00% APY applies only to Youth Savings accounts; 7.00% APY applies to Young Adult Savings accounts. Youth Savings and Young Adult Savings are variable rate accounts. **Offer valid 10/01/19– 12/20/19 (“promotional period”) but may be withdrawn at any time. Offer is valid for new members who open a new Youth Savings or Young Adult Savings account. Youth Savings and Young Adult Savings accounts are available to members from birth through age 22 and limited to one account per person. Initial deposit of at least $5 must be received during the first 10 days, after which $50 will be deposited into the account within 10 days. Bonuses may be taxable. Terms and conditions apply. Offer may not be combined with similar product offers. Federally insured by NCUA.

LGEccu.org • 770-424-0060