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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Contents December 2019
28 & 29 On the Cover Mount Paran Christian School Photo by Beth Fornuto
32
20
In Every Issue
Features 15 ‘Tis the Season for Giving
While we’re busy with holiday activities, here’s a reminder about ways we can help others in need this season.
20 Brighten Your Holidays
Find out where you and your family can see some of the best and brightest light displays.
31 Mothers Making a Change
Local women start fresh in motherhood and life after completing a Cobb County recovery and treatment program.
34 Run with Rob
Two-legged and four-legged race fans turned out for Rob’s Rescues’ first 5K fundraiser.
Contributors
4 Around Acworth
12
Tommy Allegood
8 Local News
30
Ryan Blythe
14 Celebrations
18
Jennifer Bonn
42
Nathan Bryant
24
Wayne Dennard
32
Greg Fonzeno
27
Jim Hilber
22
Tiffany Hughes
45
Dr. Sarah Licht
26 Ribbon Cuttings 36 Rob’s Rescues 38 School News 44
Dining Guide
46
Community Calendar
48
Library Events
49
Senior Activities
50
Cobb Photographic Society
52 Community of Faith 54
Directory of Advertisers
34, 36 Rob Macmillan 31
Foster Norman
30
Jay White
33
Joel Williams
25
Pacita Wilson
Advertising Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundAcworthMagazine.com Around Acworth Magazine 2
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
@AroundAcworth
around_acworth
Wishing you a Merry Christmas. Jeff Langley, Agent 1305 Cedarcrest Road, Suite 105 Dallas, GA 30132 Bus: 770-628-5676 www.myagentjefflangley.com
May the joy of the season bring you love and peace. Merry Christmas to a wonderful community! Here to help life go right.®
1708158
State Farm Bloomington, IL AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Around Acworth Letter From the Editor
What’s New
Last month I raved about the fall weather rolling in and the leaves changing colors. Well, I guess the joke was on me, because fall seemed to last only a few days. Between wind and rain, those pretty colorful trees ended up bare a week before Thanksgiving. But, that’s OK, because winter is here and with it comes the joy of Christmas and anticipation of a new year. Our daughter turned 2 last month (where has my baby gone?!), and I know this year will be even better than last. She’s at such a fun age and I can’t wait to see Christmas through her eyes again. I anticipate photos with Santa won’t be any better than last year. I’ve included last year’s money shot for reference because, as a parent, I just can’t share this photo enough. If you’re looking for free photos with the big guy, don’t miss Christmas in Acworth Dec. 7 and 14. Parker’s visit with the bearded guy shouldn’t leave any permanent scars, which is good because I know she’ll love seeing all the decorations and lights. We’ll probably hit one of the holiday lights displays listed on Pages 20 and 21. We might have to attempt some, albeit messy, Christmas baking for the first time this year, too. I’m thinking Tiffany Hughes’ holiday twist on cookies and brownies on Page 22 might be doable with my curious 2-year-old. For those of you with kiddos a little older, don’t miss the community calendar on Page 46. It is full of fun holiday-themed activities in the area the little ones will love, from Breakfast with the Grinch in Acworth, to experiencing “The Polar Express” surrounded by real trains at the Southern Museum in Kennesaw. Don’t forget about the Menorah Lighting in Acworth Dec. 23. If you’re already looking ahead and trying to figure out New Year’s Eve plans for the family, the Battery Atlanta has you covered with an early innings event complete with an 8 p.m. balloon drop. I wish everyone a joyous and safe holiday season!
Members of the Liberty Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Captain John Collins Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) worked together to clean up the Old Allatoona Cemetery on County Line Road in Acworth. The cemetery was adopted by the SAR chapter.
From left, DAR member Darla Valentini, SAR member Harry Hagan and DAR member Patricia Hein.
Kudos Congratulations to Center Street Tavern on recently winning the Golden Spatula award from Atlanta’s CBS affiliate channel 46. The restaurant won the award for consecutive perfect restaurant ratings. The downtown Acworth restaurant celebrated its eighth anniversary last month. Horizon League coach Casey Weatherford was named the 2019 National Chevy Youth Baseball Coach of the Year. Chevrolet gave him tickets to Game 2 of the World Series at the end of October. During the game, Chevy announced him as this year’s Youth Baseball Coach of the Year and surprised him with a new Silverado. Weatherford began working with the Acworth special needs baseball league after battling bone cancer.
K atie Beall Katie Beall is editor of Around Acworth. Send your comments or questions to Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Lauren Ham, special populations coordinator with the Horizon League, Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood, Casey Weatherford and his wife, Debbie Robinson.
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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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 | December 2019
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@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 5
America’s Community Magazine
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
7
Local News
From left, Tom Fravel, AEI Georgia office manager, Ben Quinn Sr., AEI founder and CEO, Rhandi Gallegos, AEI vice president, Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood, Alderman Tim Houston and Ben Quinn Jr., AEI president.
AEI Groundbreaking On Nov. 4, the City of Acworth held a groundbreaking for American Engineers, Inc. Mayor Tommy Allegood congratulated AEI on its upcoming Acworth location (5160 Acworth Landing Drive). American Engineers, Inc. is a full-service, awardwinning, civil engineering firm established more than 35 years ago with three locations in Kentucky and one in Georgia. Throughout the company’s decadeslong history, AEI has provided civil engineering services including transportation, geotechnical, bridge and structural, site design, environmental, and geospatial. For more information, visit www.aei.cc.
Local Organizations Honor Abbie Parks At the Liberty Hill Chapter of the DAR’s November meeting, Abbie Parks spoke about the history of the Liberty Hill Cemetery. After her presentation, the Save Acworth History Foundation and DAR Chapter regent Patricia Hein presented Parks with the DAR Community Service Award. This award is presented to an individual or organization who has contributed to the community in an outstanding manner through voluntary heroic, civic, benevolent service, or by organizing or participating in community activities. 8
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Art House Upcoming Exhibits and Events The Art House is hosting a Holiday Gift Shop at the Rosenwald School (4410 Cherokee St.) from 1-5 p.m. Dec. 8, featuring works of the member artists of the Acworth Arts Alliance. This event is free and open to the public. The Art House’s current Small Works exhibit will be on display through Dec. 21. These pieces are the perfect size for gift giving. The January and February exhibit will be Art from the Heart. Submissions will be accepted until Dec. 15. For more information, visit www.acworthartsalliance. org/guidelines. The exhibit will begin Jan. 11 with an artist reception from 4-7 p.m. and an open house from 4-7 p.m. Feb. 1. The Art from the Heart exhibit will run through Feb. 29. All exhibits and receptions are free and open to the public.
2020 Boating Safety Class Dates Announced The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary recently announced its 2020 schedule for safe boating classes. The one-day class, called Boat America, covers topics including: • Know your boat • Before getting underway • Navigating the waterways • Operating your vessel safely • Legal requirements • Boating emergencies Individuals who successfully complete the course and exam meet the Georgia boating certification requirements, and are awarded certificates and wallet cards. Boaters born after Jan. 1, 1998, must complete a class approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) to legally operate a boat or personal watercraft in the state of Georgia.
Class Dates
(Only one day needed to complete the course)
Feb. 8, March 7, April 11, May 2, June 6, July 11, Aug. 8 and Sept. 12.
Patricia Hein, right, presents Abbie Parks with the DAR Community Service Award.
Classes will be at Roberts School Community and Education Center, 4681 School St., Acworth. The fee for program materials is $25, and family discounts are available. To register for a class, or inquire about a gift certificate for someone else, email Greg Fonzeno at flotilla22pe@ gmail.com.
Physical Therapist Assistant 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 | December 2019
9
Local News
Members of the Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department accept their award.
Acworth Parks and Rec Earns State Recognition Last month, the Acworth Parks, Recreation, and Community Resource Department won the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s (GRPA) Agency of the Year Award in the 20,00150,000 population category. The award was presented to Acworth Parks, Recreation, and Community Resource director James Albright and his team at the GRPA awards banquet in Dalton, Georgia. The award recognizes exemplary agencies that deliver recreation, park or leisure-related services to their community. Eligible agencies must deliver services that make a significant contribution on a local, state or regional basis. This year has been monumental for the Acworth agency with the opening of the Acworth Community Center on April 25. The community center has enabled the department to offer additional programs, events and camps to the city. Acworth also opened Depot Park in downtown, which serves as a historical resource to the community and features electronic displays. In addition to these new facilities, the Acworth Parks and Recreation Department maintains 10 additional indoor 10
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
facilities, 800 acres of greenspace, 10 baseball fields, two football fields, an indoor batting facility, four beaches on two lakes, two trail networks, and a rubberized surface baseball field for the Horizon League, an athletic program for children and adults with disabilities. The department’s Operations Division also provides landscaping and maintenance of the Historic Downtown area and all parking lots located within the district. The department partners with other local organizations to host special events throughout the year. “We have worked extremely hard over the last 20 years to recruit, retain and develop our talent,” department director Albright said. “We have an extremely gifted and talented team that is creating extraordinary experiences in everything they do!” The Georgia Recreation and Park Association was formed in 1945 as a private, non-profit Institution to support and promote the recreation and park industries within the state of Georgia. It is the only state organization that serves as an advocate for quality recreation and park areas, facilities, programs and services at the local level.
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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A Message from the
T
he end of the year is upon us, and what an awesome year it has been for Acworth! In 2019, we have seen many great additions to our Historic Downtown and Parkside expansion projects. Acworth has much to celebrate, from the opening of the Acworth Community Center, Depot Park and the pedestrian bridge to the groundbreaking of the Highway 92 widening project. I would like to thank our citizens, volunteers, the business community, our city team and my fellow elected officials for celebrating with me throughout these accomplishments. These partnerships are what make Acworth so successful, and will ensure that we have even more to celebrate in 2020! Speaking of celebration, the holiday season finally is here, and Acworth has many festive offerings for the whole family. Christmas in Acworth will take place Dec. 7 and 14. Santa will arrive at Depot Park on Main Street at 1 p.m. to read stories to the kids. Bring your camera, because, before heading back to the North Pole, Santa will be available for pictures from 2 to 5 p.m. Carriage rides also will be available on Dec. 14. Rides will depart from Senator Russell Avenue. Carriage rides and visits with Santa are free to the public. As you explore and shop in Historic Downtown, be sure to visit Frana Brown Park for the Downtown Development Authority’s Festival of Trees. These beautiful Christmas trees are decorated by local schools, businesses and organizations, and are a great addition to the holiday spirit of our downtown. You won’t want to miss Christmas in Acworth this year! The city will hold a menorah lighting at the corner of Cowan Road and Main Street at 6 p.m. on Dec. 23, the second night of Hanukkah. Join me and Rabbi Zalman
Charytan, from the Chabad Jewish Center, to celebrate this eight-day Jewish holiday. The menorah lighting is a great symbol of communities coming together in hope and compassion, and a great opportunity to learn more about the miracle of the Jewish Maccabees’ victory over oppression. As the weather turns cooler, it can become challenging to get in our exercise. The Acworth Community Center offers an indoor walking track, open gym for basketball play, pickleball and many classes to keep us active and healthy throughout the winter months. Be sure to visit www. acworthparksandrecreation.org for up-to-date hours and class schedules. The Acworth Community Center opened in April, and has increased the Parks, Recreation, and Community Resource Department’s ability to serve the community, with additional resources, programs and events. The department recently was honored with the Georgia Recreation and Park Association award for 2019 Agency of the Year (population 20,001-50,000). I am so proud of our team and the extraordinary experiences its members create. I also would like to congratulate Aldermen Butch Price, Brett North and Gene Pugliese on their re-election last month. I look forward to serving with you again in the upcoming years. As always, for more information on any of these projects and events, 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!
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Celebrations!
Kusamia Ntwoku
Age 4 on Dec. 4 Happy fourth birthday, honey boo. Keep being our beautiful, smart and peaceful princess. We love you! Mommy and Daddy
Simone Savage
Age 41 on Dec. 19 Happy birthday! You bring us so much joy! With all of the love from your great family and all of your great friends.
Jared Cunningham
Anslee Voyles
Age 11 on Dec. 29 Happy 11th birthday, Jared! You bring so much joy to our family, and we love you! Mom, Dad and Jaeden
William Savage
Age 61 on Dec. 7 Happy birthday buddy, from your family and friends. We love you!
Age 6 on Dec. 15 Happy sixth birthday, Anslee! We love you very much! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Sissy
Dylan Hughes
Age 18 on Dec. 17 Happy 18th birthday! We love you! Mom, Dad, Bella and the other furbabies
Zebastian Auxilly
Age 5 on Dec. 1 Who's excited for your fifth birthday? We are, we are! Love you always. Xoxo, Mommy, Daddy, Cam and Zay
Avery James Skarda-Seay
Age 4 on Dec. 22 Thank you, Jesus, for you both being the best Christmas presents I could ever have received, ever!
Raven Rogers
Age 28 on Dec. 30 Happy 28th birthday! Love, Eric, William and Lincoln
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Sue and John Strickland
Celebrating 60 years of marriage on Dec. 20. Happy anniversary!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
E-mail to: Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com. January deadline is Dec. 14.
Helping Hands Because many of our friends and neighbors struggle financially every day, there are many charities that work hard to help people in need. Here’s a list of local nonprofits that have additional needs for the holidays.
Acworth Police Department Christmas Shoppe www.acworthpolice.org Every year, the Acworth Police Department invites parents in need to come and select holiday gifts for their children at the station’s Christmas Shoppe. The community can assist the Christmas Shoppe by donating new, unwrapped toys and clothes for school-aged children. Donations can be dropped off at the police department anytime before Dec. 19. There also will be collection bins at Henry’s Louisiana Grill (4835 N. Main St.) and Huey Luey’s Mexican Kitchen and Margarita Bar (3338 N. Cobb Parkway). 770-974-1232, Ext. 1115.
Cobb Christmas Stuff-A-Bus Santa's sleigh looks a lot like a CobbLinc bus this Christmas! Stuff-A-Bus is Cobb's most memorable and unique holiday program. Help brighten the holidays for local children in need by donating new toys, food or monetary contributions to Cobb Christmas. Cobb Christmas is a nonprofit, nondenominational organization, dedicated to helping low-income families in our county during the holiday season. It is run 100% by volunteers, so all donations go directly to help the community. Cobb Christmas provides a minimum of three age-appropriate toys to each child, ages infant through 15. Families go through a qualification process. Drop off donations at any of the Stuff-A-Bus scheduled stops Dec. 10-12. The bus will be at the Acworth Health Park 9:30-10 a.m. Dec. 11. To find a stop near you, visit www.cobbchristmas.net/stuff-a-bus.
Goshen Valley Foundation www.goshenvalley.org
The holidays are a difficult time for foster children not living with their families. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch attempts to provide a memorable Christmas experience for foster children with the help of the community. This includes building traditions, talking about the true meaning of Christmas, and fulfilling some of the young people’s wants and needs through gift giving to teach them that they are loved. With 42 youths to purchase gifts for, Goshen relies on the generosity of the community in order to fulfill these wishes. A list of gifts has been compiled on Amazon through a Charity Wishlist. Those desiring to help can visit: http://goshenwishlist.org and click Christmas list, or can email Stacy Cooper, executive director, at scooper@ goshenvalley.org or call 770-796-4618.
Cobb Senior Services www.cobbcounty.org
There are several opportunities to contribute to the Cobb Senior Services programs. Financial donations are accepted year-round for the Senior Care or Meals on Wheels programs, in addition to the Senior Santa program. Tax-deductible donations are used to assist Cobb County seniors in need of meals, transportation, emergency assistance, utilities and more. The annual Senior Santa program benefits current clients who are homebound. 770-528-5368. Continued on page 16 AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Helping Hands
continued from page 15
Staff members and volunteers from the Hope Box bringing Christmas cheer to labor and delivery hospital workers last year.
The Hope Box
www.TheHopeBox.org The Hope Box, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing abandoned babies and toddlers, needs donations of gift cards to Walmart, CVS and Target to cover the costs of car seats and other needs of mothers and infants in crisis. Mail gift cards to 3330 Cobb Parkway, Suite 324/180, Acworth, GA 30101. For more information, call 770-765-6301.
Hope Center
Papa's Pantry/Encompass Ministries
The pregnancy diagnosis and support center can use donations of new, unwrapped toys for children up to age 18 for the Christmas toy closet. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 11 at the HOPE Center, 295 Molly Lane, Suite 120, Woodstock. 770-924-0864.
Encompass Ministries and its food pantry offer year-round food and stability as well as life skills training assistance, Mondays-Saturdays. Special holiday needs: donations of turkeys, ham and nonperishable food items. A list of the top 10 food needs is kept up-to-date on the website. Tax-deductible donations also are accepted online at www.papaspantry.org. For more details, call 770-591-4730.
www.hopectr.com
KSU CARE Center
http://care.kennesaw.edu The Campus Awareness, Resource & Empowerment (CARE) Services office offers support to students who have experienced homelessness, food insecurity and/or the foster care system. Donations of food for the pantry and monetary donations to the scholarship can make a huge difference in the life of a student. There is a wish list to help students at Christmas. For details, contact CARE at careservices@kennesaw.edu or 470-KSU-5260.
MUST
www.mustministries.org The Cobb County nonprofit provides food, housing, employment and clothing assistance to individuals in distress. Clients are invited to visit the toy shop; donations are needed to stock those shelves. Donations are needed of new, unwrapped toys, stuffed animals, puzzles, board games, electronics, books, dolls, sports equipment, T-shirts, underwear, hats, coats and gloves. Email ToyShop@mustministries.org for more information. Gifts also are welcome for teens and adults. 16
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
https://papaspantry.org
Simple Needs GA www.simpleneedsga.org
Simple Needs GA’s Spirit of Christmas program helps school- and agency-referred families have the merry Christmas they deserve. Last year, the Marietta-based nonprofit brought brand-new presents and other useful items to 161 children. Volunteer opportunities include: buying requested presents; wrapping gifts; making deliveries; sorting and organizing; and more. For information, email brenda@simpleneedsga.org.
Trinity Rescue Inc. www.trinityrescueinc.org
The nonprofit dedicated to rehabilitating and finding homes for abandoned, neglected and abused horses needs farm assistance with supplements and grooming supplies, like Cortaflex HA100 joint supplement, Omega Horseshine, Cowboy Magic-Conditioner/Detangler and ThrushX. Drop donations off at 5826 Forest Drive, Acworth. For more information, email info@trinityrescueinc.org.
Toys for Tots
www.toysfortots.org Toys for Tots is a national program started by the Marine Corps. Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys to distribute to children in need during the holiday season as a way of spreading joy to the less fortunate. Below is a list of Toys for Tots collection sites in Acworth.
• American Legion Post 304, 4220 S. Main St., Acworth. Contact is George Tymchyshyn. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 4-9 p.m.
• Cabella’s, 152 Northpoint Parkway, Acworth.
Contact is Alexis Kinner. Donations accepted through Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Cobb County Parks, 3900 S. Main St., Acworth.
Contact is Mark Kirk. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays; Noon-4 p.m. Sundays.
• Computers Plus, 3330 Cobb Parkway NW,
Suite 154, Acworth. Contact is Katherine. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; Noon-5 p.m. Sundays.
• Midtown Tire, 2905 Regions Drive, Acworth.
Contact is Kenny Stephens. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Fridays.
• Pep Boys, 3638 Cobb Parkway N., Acworth.
Contact is Maurice Haliburton. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 9 a.m.-7p.m. Sundays.
• Piedmont Residential, 121 Shoals Bridge Road,
Acworth. Contact is Samantha Daugherty. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-6 p.m. Sundays.
• Priority Realty Group LLC., 11 Waterbend Place,
Acworth. Contact is Stephen Corrao. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Titlemax, 3934 Cobb Parkway, Acworth.
Contact is Jessica Liggans. Donations accepted through Dec. 20. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays.
Master drop sites include Publix Supermarkets (through Dec. 21), QuikTrip (through Dec. 21), Georgia State Patrol (through Dec. 18) and the Toys for Tots warehouse at 1730 Cumberland Point Drive, Suite 8, Marietta (Mondays and Saturdays). AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
17
Adopting a
Holiday Attitude BY JENNIFER BONN
Everyone seems to have a different attitude about the holidays. Some become stressed out because it can involve party planning, preparing meals and overspending, while others see the magic and the possibilities it brings. This year choose to see the positive aspects of the season. How can you make this time less stressful and more joyful? Give gifts that will help others and also lift your spirit. Start family traditions that will bring you closer and build memories to last a lifetime. Don’t overspend or overcommit. Make positive goals for the next year that will make you happier.
Presents
God gave us the ultimate gift of his son to save us, and the best gifts we can give each other are not material things. Make moments your family can share instead of going into debt for gifts that might not be appreciated. Give back to the community, help a neighbor or make meals for someone in need. Fulfill needs around you by giving your time. These presents give back to you in the good feeling you have by filling a need.
Anticipation
I love the anticipation of the holiday season. There’s a hum of activity and excitement, with all sorts of fun activities, events and performances. Holiday movie marathons help build the festive excitement. My mother knew how to build anticipation to a fever pitch. She would hint about presents, explain about the amazing meal we would have and how wonderful it would all be. We were ready to burst by Christmas morning.
Family
I do not have all my family under one roof as often as I like, but for the holidays I soak up every minute with them. My oldest daughter, who now has two children, tells them what Christmas was like for her as a child. I have always tried to make holidays magical, so I enjoy hearing her tell the stories. Create magic for your children. Give them stories to tell their children about how much fun they had.
Food
There is so much glorious food during the holidays, which is probably why so many people start gym memberships in January. Baking cookies has always been a fun way to spend time with my daughters, as we make treats for the neighborhood. This is a chance to listen to what is on our kids’ minds while the kitchen fills with amazing smells.
Music
There is something special about music that is played only once a year. Everyone has a favorite that must be sung loudly each time it comes on the radio.
Church
I will always think of church when I think of the holidays. We always went to midnight Mass. When we came home, we had hot cocoa and a snack, and jumped into bed hoping the morning would come quickly.
Beginnings
The holidays are a time when you can reflect on the joys and sorrows of the past year and decide what goals you may want to pursue for the coming year. It is a chance to let go of the past and plan ways that will help you be even stronger and better in the future.
Community
Church services are fuller, people go caroling or make holiday crafts. With all sorts of holiday events, people seem more connected. There is a heightened awareness of community need as hearts are more generous.
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Jennifer Bonn is a French teacher at Mount Paran Christian School, and is working on a book about lessons she learned in the classroom.
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Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Restrictions may apply. Rates may not be available at time of application. Information and/or data are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states. Bay Equity LLC, 28 Liberty Ship Way Suite 2800, Sausalito, CA 94965; NMLS ID#76988. Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #39887. NMLS consumer access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org BECH-190425-1.0
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Brighten Your
Holidays! IN COBB Celebrate the Season Holiday Light Show Through Dec. 25 at the Battery Atlanta, with shows at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m. Guests will experience a free immersive sound and light display throughout the Plaza each evening. 800 Battery Ave., Atlanta. Batteryatl.com.
Lights of Life
on the campus of Life University Every night, rain or shine, through Dec. 31. Introduced in 1989, the display has grown into one of the most popular light shows in the Southeast. Cruise through the illuminated campus, stopping along the 1.5-mile drive to enjoy seasonal entertainment. Costs are $5 per car Dec. 2-5, Dec. 9-12; $10 per car Fridays-Sundays, as well as Dec. 13-31. Display opens at dark every night and runs until 9 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays and 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. www.life.edu/events/lights-of-life.
Lights for Lupus The annual Smoot Family Lights for Lupus takes place nightly through Dec. 31. The family decorates their home with a variety of lights and fixtures that are synchronized to music. Donations go to the Lupus Foundation of North Georgia; Jeremy Smoot's mother, Debbie Founds, died from complications of lupus. Lights are on 6-10 p.m. SundaysThursdays and 6-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The family provides free hot chocolate and cookies every Saturday night, weather permitting. 3699 Autumn View Drive, Acworth.
Looking for the brightest and biggest light displays this season? Pack the car with family and friends, and put on your favorite Christmas music for a de-light-ful time. A visit to these sites surely will get you in the holiday spirit.
OUTSIDE COBB A Country Christmas at Pettit Creek Farms
Gates open 6-9 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays and 6-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, through Dec. 30. Drive through more than a mile of Christmas lights and visit with Santa and his live reindeer. Families can visit with Santa Thursdays-Sundays, and the live Nativity can be seen on Saturdays. Hay rides also are available nightly. 337 Cassville Road, Cartersville. 770-386-8688. www.pettitcreekfarms.com.
Christmas at the Farm Light Show Through Dec. 29 at Warbington Farms. Enjoy the magic of Christmas as the farm is transformed into an illuminated wonderland. Experience a synchronized light show at the Pavilion, stroll the barnyard, aglow with hundreds of lights, then enjoy a hayride to the Field of Lights. 5555 Crow Road, Cumming. Check website for dates, times and ticket information. www.warbingtonfarms.com/hours-and-info.
Christmas at The Rock Ranch Various dates through Dec. 25. Drive through the mile-long display of thousands of lights, all strung by volunteers and ranch hands. Bring the family by Truett's Barn for hot cocoa and apple cider, soup and other treats. Wagon rides, Santa’s workshop, Christmas Train Express rides and breakfast with Santa tickets also are available on select days. 5020 Barnesville Highway, The Rock. 706-647-6374. www.therockranch.com.
Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City Gardens
Through Jan. 4 (closed Dec. 24). Holiday scenes include more than 1 million lights. Stop in the pavilion for nightly entertainment, gingerbread cookie decorating and hot cocoa. 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, TN. 706-820-2531. www.seerockcity.com.
Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens
The Smoot family’s Lights for Lupus display last year. 20
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Through Jan. 4. Bundle up for a Jolly Trolley ride, or drive your car through more than 8 million lights. Named one of the top 10 places to see holiday lights by National Geographic Traveler. 17800 U.S. Highway 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. www.callawaygardens.com.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
International Winter Wonderland
Open through Jan. 11. Orchestral Orbs glow harmoniously with holiday tunes. A Tunnel of Light from the radiant Ice Goddess to the Glittering Galaxy embraces visitors in enchanting light. Named one of the top 10 holiday light shows in the country by USA Today. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. www.atlantabg.org.
Through Jan. 5 at Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave., Atlanta. Presented by the Georgia World Congress Center Authority, this event includes the Chinese Lantern Festival, with more than 25 handcrafted lanterns of land and sea animals as part of the festival’s theme, Into the Wild, and the Atlanta Christkindl Market, an international holiday experience featuring live entertainment, cultural food and interactive activities. www.gwcca.org/copholiday.
Holiday Lights of Hope
Light Up the Holidays
Dec. 5-23, beginning at 6 p.m. each evening. The Christmas celebration, which benefits the Anna Crawford Children’s Center, features a walk-through light display with more than 2 million lights, concessions, vendors, Santa and more. Located at Hobgood Park, 6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Fee is $10 for adults, free for age 14 and younger. 678-504-6388. Watch Facebook for weather updates. www.holidaylightsofhope.com.
Through Jan. 1. Visitors (including those who are not staying overnight), are welcome to view more than 1 million lights and festive décor in the historic 1800s manor house ruins, surrounding gardens and English-style village. There is a small fee for the self-guided tour. 597 Barnsley Gardens Road, Adairsville. 770-773-7480. www.barnsleyresort.com.
at Atlanta Botanical Garden
at Hobgood Park
at Barnsley Resort
Magical Nights of Lights at Lanier Islands
Through Jan. 5. Drive through larger-than-life light displays while listening to songs of the season on your radio or smartphone. Enhance the experience with the companion app, and stop at the Holiday Village to visit Santa, shop for gifts, and ride carnival rides. This year, enjoy License to Chill Snow Island at Margaritaville. With one of the fastest snow rides in North America, ice skating, a snow play area, fire pits, s’mores, carnival rides and more, Snow Island is one of the best Southern snow attractions, and fun for all ages. 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Gainesville. 770-945-8787. www.lanierislands.com.
Mountain Country Christmas in Lights The fields of Hobgood Park glow with Christmas lights.
Holiday Lights of Hope at Veterans Park
Nightly through Dec. 31 at 6 p.m. Drive through 2 miles of lights featuring tunnels, animated displays and more than 1 millions lights. Cost is $20 per car. This is a fundraiser benefiting Papa’s Pantry, Enduring Hearts, Skills USA, Veterans of Cherokee County, and CRPA Play it Forward. 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. www.holidaylightsatveteranspark.com.
Holiday in the Park On select days through Jan. 5 at Six Flags Over Georgia. More than 1 million LED lights and dozens of Christmas trees create a magical atmosphere during the holiday season. This holiday classic includes sparkling lights, festive shows, culinary treats, and, of course, Santa! www.sixflags.com/overgeorgia/special-events/.
Through Dec. 28. At the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Enjoy a winter walk through thousands of lights and exhibits! Visit Poinsettia Place, Candy Cane Lane, Santa's Workshop, Toyland, Frosty's Trail and many more light exhibits. There will be live music, arts and crafts vendors, holiday food, and visiting and pictures with Santa. 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. On Facebook @georgiamountainfairgrounds.
Stone Mountain Christmas at Stone Mountain Park
Open through Jan. 5. Millions of lights, Christmas shows and Rudolph create a night to remember. Don’t miss the Singalong Christmas Train, featuring a satellite message from Santa’s elves, and a track-side show about the first Christmas. Experience the new Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony, and end the night with the Snow Angel Snowfall Finale. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. www.stonemountainpark.com. AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Pumpkin-Spiced Pecans Ingredients
• • • • • • •
1 cup brown sugar 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon salt 2 egg whites 2 tablespoons water ½ teaspoon vanilla 1 pound pecan halves
Directions Preheat oven to 250 degrees. In a large zip-top bag, combine the sugar, pumpkin pie spice and salt. Shake to mix then set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg whites, water and vanilla, then stir in pecans. Stir until all the nuts are moistened. With a slotted spoon, remove pecans from bowl and drop in the bag with the pumpkin spice mixture. Once all the pecans are in the bag, seal the top and shake to coat. Remove the nuts from the bag with a clean slotted spoon and spread into a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake one hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container. NOTE: These nuts are great on ice cream, waffles and in banana bread. A cinnamon version can be made by substituting 2 teaspoons cinnamon and ½ teaspoon ground ginger for the pumpkin pie spice.
Marshmallow Caramel Popcorn Ingredients
• • • • • •
10 cups freshly popped popcorn 16 ounces honey-roasted peanuts 2 cups pretzels 2 sticks butter 1 cup brown sugar 20 large marshmallows
Directions In a large bowl, combine the popcorn, pretzels and peanuts while the popcorn is still warm. In a large pot, melt the butter then add the brown sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add marshmallows and stir until melted. Immediately pour over the popcorn mixture and mix well. Work quickly to coat the popcorn before the caramel cools. Spread out on a cookie sheet to cool. Store in an airtight container. 22
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Homema
From the Kitchen BY TIFFANY HUGHES
Homemade treats are great to have on hand this time of year for hostess gifts, teachers, pet sitters, mail carriers and even the unexpected friend who drops by. Take a little time to make a few tasty treats, package them in pretty bags or boxes, and you’re prepared to show someone your appreciation on the fly.
Gift Baskets
For the bakers in your life, homemade vanilla extract is a nice treat they will appreciate. This requires forethought, as it takes three months to percolate, so it won’t be ready this holiday season, but would be great for future gift-giving. Start by slicing six whole vanilla beans lengthwise, then drop in a fifth of vodka or light-colored rum. Sit in a cool, dark place to let it do its magic. Shake every week, and after three months, you have bona-fide vanilla extract. Strain through a cheesecloth into pretty bottles. Put in a gift basket with a spatula, wooden spoon, apron and the dry ingredients from your favorite cookie or cake recipe. Be sure to include the recipe, too!
Elevate the Basics
Most everyone loves homemade cookies and brownies, but who says you have to make them from scratch? Buy rolls of cookie dough and slice onto a baking sheet. Top with crushed peppermints, sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even colored sugar, and bake. Another idea is to spread frosting in between two sugar cookies to make a sugar cookie sandwich. Wrap in plastic wrap and gift in a decorative Christmas tin or cookie bag. To give brownie mix a wow factor, add a box of chocolate pudding mix and some mini peanut butter cups to the batter, then bake as usual. Another idea is to make a batch of brownies, remove from the pan and cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Spread colored frosting on the top, or decorate just like you would a batch of Christmas cookies. Homemade trail mix and flavored nuts are always popular gifts. They’re also a good source of protein for snacking while you’re cooking. After all, if the chef goes down, nobody eats. A simple trail mix only needs three components — salty nuts, nonsweet cereal (like corn squares or O’s) and something sweet (like chocolate candies or candy corn). Popcorn and pretzels are great additions, as well. Popcorn even can be substituted for the cereal in most trail mix recipes. A cute idea that’s especially easy to prepare is chocolate cake-in-a-mug. Fill a Christmas-themed plastic bag with the dry ingredients, then place the bag in a cute Christmas mug, along with a card-sized version of the recipe (top right). If you’ve made homemade vanilla, you can add a small bottle of that, then wrap the entire thing in plastic wrap and put a bow on it.
ade Gifts
n and the Heart
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake-In-A-Mug Ingredients
• • • • • • • •
4 tablespoons flour 4 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons cocoa 3 tablespoons peanut butter (or chocolate) chips 1 egg 3 tablespoons canola oil 3 tablespoons milk Splash of vanilla extract
Directions Add dry ingredients, including peanut butter chips, to a mug. Whisk in egg, oil, milk and vanilla. Place the mug in a microwave and cook for 3 minutes. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, then deflate, so don’t be alarmed. Allow to cool a little before tipping out onto a plate to serve.
Pumpkin Blonde Brownies This gift basket for a baker includes homemade vanilla extract.
Cheers!
Drink-themed gifts are popular and easy to make. For the coffee lover, dip a couple of plastic spoons into melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermints, then place in a plastic bag, and put in a gift bag with a Christmas mug, and a bag of coffee or a few coffee pods. Packets of instant hot chocolate also can be added, so the recipient can make café mochas. Russian tea mix is another idea for gifts in a mug. The mix can be prepared by combining 2 cups of orange drink powder, ¾ cup of unsweetened instant tea, 1 cup of sugar, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Include a recipe card with the tea mix. Combine 2 tablespoons of mix into 1 cup of hot water. A tasty alternative is to substitute orange juice for ½ cup of water. This mixture smells great if you simmer a pot of it on the stove. No matter what treats you prepare this Christmas season, make sure to keep a few extra bags on hand for unexpected guests, and to keep yourself fortified when you’re making homemade gifts for others. Remember, family and friends are the true gifts, and doing something special for them always is appreciated. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and is volunteer coordinator/scheduler for the Booth Western Art Museum. She enjoys spending time with her family and furbabies. You can contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.
Ingredients
• • • • • • • • • • • •
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 2 teaspoons baking soda ½ teaspoon sea salt 2 sticks butter, melted and cooled to room temperature 1 cup dark brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 1 egg 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 15-ounce can pumpkin puree 1 cup white chocolate chips 1 cup butterscotch chips
Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-by-13-inch pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the listed ingredients, flour through pumpkin puree, and stir until well combined. Do not overmix. Fold in both white chocolate and butterscotch chips. Spread the batter (which will be thick) into a pan, and bake approximately 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Store in an airtight container. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. NOTE: For a chocolate version, add one box of chocolate pudding to the mixture and substitute dark chocolate chips for the white chocolate chips. AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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ACWORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
Department Set for a December to Remember BY WAYNE DENNARD
December is one of my favorite months. I love the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the focus on joy and goodwill, the time spent with family and loved ones, and the way we all begin to plan for the coming new year with a sense of hope. This month, the Acworth Police Department is grateful for the opportunity to help families in our community with our Christmas Shoppe and Miracle Tree. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we will have toy collection bins set up throughout the city. Once all of the toys have been collected, we will set up our Christmas Shoppe in our training room, and families who are experiencing financial difficulties will be invited to “shop” for gifts that have been donated from members of the community. Every family we help will receive gift cards to a grocery store in addition to Christmas presents, so they may fill their freezers and be sustained through the holiday season. In our lobby, we will have our Miracle Tree, adorned with ornaments listing items needed and wanted by members of one family that is experiencing extreme hardship. Our staff and the community are invited to pick out ornaments and provide specific gifts to the family. Through the Miracle Tree, we will be able to provide everything the family needs to have a complete Christmas, including gifts, food and even paying monthly bills. Keep your eyes peeled this month, and you may notice our officers with a little more facial hair than usual. For 24
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Last year's Christmas Shoppe setup.
the fourth year in a row, officers are participating in our Covering the Faces competition. During November and December, officers pay to participate in the competition for the best beard, and 100% of the funds go toward our Covering the Bases (CTB) event the following fall to support Horizon Field. Last year, we were able to add $1,500 to our CTB totals! It’s a fun way to raise funds for a great cause, and just one of the ways the Acworth Police Department works to support the Special Needs Development Group and Horizon Field.
I feel so blessed to live and work in Acworth. So many of our citizens and businesses are imbued with a desire to serve others, and that creates a strong sense of shared community for everyone. As we reflect on this past year, and all of the blessings God has bestowed upon us, please keep our officers in your thoughts and prayers as they work in the jail and patrol the streets of our city. Please join me in praying for their safety and for their families to be filled with joy throughout the season. Merry Christmas!
Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.
Focus On Your 5 Senses in
Christmas Decor BY PACITA WILSON
I
t ’s the most wonderful time of the year! It’s also a special time to open your home to family and friends. To make your guests feel at home, use your five senses, and incorporate some festive, but easy, touches in your holiday decor that will help your guests feel the magic of the season.
1.
Sights. Christmas is a time for decorating to the fullest. Allow your home to become a pallet of your favorite colors, trimmings and twinkling lights.
2.
Sounds. Do you hear what I hear? Play soft classical or instrumental renditions of your favorite holiday carols. Music in the background will make for a light and jolly atmosphere.
3.
Scents. The smell of a
4.
Tastes. Offer homemade
5.
Textures. Whether you
glowing fraser fir candle adds an instant, familiar and cozy touch to your gatherings. It is a simple way to warm up any space. treats to your guests. It will make them feel special and welcomed. It is very hard to resist a sweet treat. are decorating a beautiful table for your Christmas feast, or bringing together a group of loved ones with a potluck meal, the table linens and napkins you select will engage your guests’ sense of touch with soft, welcoming textures. When we allow our senses to become a part of the Christmas experience, we create opportunities for memories to be made and remembered as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. Many blessings to you all this Christmas season!
Holiday tablescapes incorporate several of the five senses. Photo by Taylored Imagery.
Pacita Wilson is the owner of Pineapple Park Home. www.pineapplepark.com AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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City of Acworth Ribbon Cuttings 1. Pampered Pink 4809 S. Main St., Acworth 770-485-5921 www.pampered-pink.com 2. Acworth Premier Dental Care 4343 S. Main St., Acworth 770-974-6868 www.acworthpremierdentalcare.com
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Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings Generations Pizza Dec. 10, 11:30 a.m. 3969 S. Main St., Suite 160, Acworth Star Stuff Dec. 20, 11:30 a.m. 4549 Lemon St., Suite 100, Acworth
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“Let Our Family go to work for Your Family”
“Customer Satisfaction is our #1 Goal” Tom Kris and Sons Plumbing is your full-service, neighborhood plumber, fully licensed and insured, specializing in: • Water Heater Service & Replacement (Tank/Tankless) • Water line Replacement • Remodeling • Camera Inspections • Toilets & Faucets • Sump Pumps • Garbage Disposals *Tom Kris and Sons Plumbing proudly offers 10% off all services to our military, first responders, educators and senior citizens* **maximum discount $100**
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770-529-0799
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
a on e S S ‘Tis the
UPCOMING ABA EVENTS 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
Alive After Five
5:30-7:30 p.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive, Acworth
Dec. 19
Women’s Network
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Brookwood Christian School 4728 Wood St., Acworth
Jan. 9
ABA Luncheon
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St., Acworth
Jan. 14
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.
to Plan
BY JIM HILBER
We all look forward to a pleasant and relaxing end to the year. We celebrate December traditions and tend to spend more time with family, friends and the ones we care about most. However, it is not the time to ignore ourselves and our businesses. Let’s not just survive the holidays, let’s plan to thrive! Do you have a year-end strategy? Did that outline start a year ago or are you working on it as you read this? Either way, we can ensure a great end and start to the new year with some efficient organization. People and businesses are busy, but we can still proactively plan, prioritize and progress. What are the keys? Get creative with your time and ideas. Remember to capitalize on the added community gatherings. It is also a great time to take care of all those things that have been simmering on your back burner. Small, thoughtful gestures go a long way as we are reminded the little things in life are not little. Most of us tend to overestimate what we can do in a day and underestimate what we can do in a year, or a lifetime! Now is the time
Ahead
to join us or renew your Acworth Business Association membership for 2020. Please be sure to explore the various levels of participation to best fit the needs of your business. Our Presidential Sponsor package continues to be the best value to ensure your business receives a profitable return on its investment. The ABA has more than 100 scheduled events annually to explore and capitalize on with your valuable involvement. Explore the possibilities at www. AcworthBusiness.org. It is a great time to update your website listing with a fresh picture and the detailed information you want to share with your local business community. The Acworth Business Association is your “bridge to success.” Let’s use that advantageous point of view to journey into the new year together. It has been my pleasure and honor to serve the ABA in 2019. It’s time to plan and share your new goals as we look forward with excellent 2020 vision. Do good and be well, Jim Hilber 2019 President Acworth Business Association
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.
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Faith and Intellect Grow as One From the Start Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) is a pre-K3 through 12th grade private Christian, nondenominational, college-preparatory school committed to excellence in academics, arts and athletics. Founded in 1976, MPCS is fully accredited and located in the shadow of Kennesaw Mountain on a 68-acre collegiate-like campus. The school’s mission is to “unite with home and church to prepare servantleaders to honor God, love others and walk in Truth.” Mount Paran Christian School strives to provide a stellar academic experience in a Christian environment. School leaders believe it’s crucial to guarantee a moral and faith foundation through everything a child learns at school. Through curricular Bible classes, weekly chapel, discipleship groups and service, faith becomes integrated into students’ everyday lives. Within small class sizes,
MPCS offers 57 Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, instructional support, robotics, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Math) learning, and a one-to-one device program. MPCS plans to break ground on a new high school building, the Murray Innovation Center, in the Spring of 2020, with plans to open for the fall of 2021. The building will support STEAM education, providing cutting-edge educational space, advanced technology, maker space, art studios, fabrication labs for robotics, green space, and a coffee shop. “Our job is to prepare servantleaders — in the classroom, on the ball field, on the stage and, ultimately, in our community,” said Tiffany Westbrook, director of marketing and communications at MPCS.
What’s Different?
Aside from the Christian values and curriculum taught at MPCS, Westbrook cites four notable differences that set the school apart from others like it. 1. Project Lead the Way is an engineering program offered to kindergartners through 12th graders. STEAM learning is taught starting in preschool and carried through high school.
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2. MPCS’ Directed Studies program has been fine-tuned for more than 40 years, and is available for students with learning differences, such as mild dyslexia. Supplemental support begins in kindergarten, with instructional support available in first grade through senior year. 3. Mount Paran Christian School offers 57 AP and honors courses, with an average pass rate that is 15% higher than the state average. These high pass rates have resulted in more than $8 million in college scholarships offered to MPCS students (before adding the Zell Miller or HOPE Scholarships). 4. Foreign language is part of the school’s curriculum in all grades, preschool through high school.
Learning Starts Early Preschoolers, ages 3-5, at Mount Paran Christian School learn through creativity and play, and look forward to hands-on STEAM exploration each week. Faculty members are degreed teachers who love and nurture faith in God in their students. Preschoolers conduct science experiments, master math concepts via iPad Osmo, solve building challenges, and create masterpieces on SMART Tables. Curriculum centers around advanced levels of Wee Learn, covering math, language arts, science, fine arts and Spanish language — exceeding Georgia standards. MPCS half- and full-day preschool is fully accredited through SAIS and AdvancED, and is Bright From the Start-compliant.
Sponsored Content AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
SCHOOL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MT. PARAN
Daily Bible instruction and weekly chapels integrate God’s truth across all studies. The transitional kindergarten program provides an extra year of enrichment skills to prepare students for confident transition into kindergarten. “At Mount Paran Christian Preschool, we truly believe that faith and intellect grow as one,” said Shea Buehler, director of preschool. “We focus on the social, the emotional, the physical, academic and spiritual aspect of each child. Our teachers hold certificates in early childhood, with many holding master’s degrees, and specialize in teaching gifted and talented children. We truly believe in the partnership of church, home and school to ensure that students
are loved and set up for academic success.”
What Parents/Students Are Saying “We started our child in pre-K3, not initially thinking we would go on to attend lower school there, but we were looking for a great Christian preschool program. We instantly discovered how truly special MPCS is, and knew right away that this was the place for our family. Our child is now in third grade, and every year has far exceeded the previous. The faculty and staff are absolutely one of a kind, and the curriculum surpasses that of most other schools. The Christ-centered education offered here is such a blessing, and the love and attention that these kids receive every single day takes my breath away.” — Libby K., current parent “I attended MPCS from preschool through 12th grade. It was my extended family, and I grew in my faith with the support of excellent teachers who cared about the condition of my soul. I also discovered my passion for helping and serving people. That led to my study of psychology, and now a master’s in marriage and family therapy. I am thankful my family gave me the gift of an MPCS education.” — Logan M., alumnus
Individualized Attention With a preschool enrollment of approximately 60 students, the average student-teacher ratio is 7-to1, allowing for more individualized attention. MPCS’ low student-teacher ratio continues throughout the lower, middle and high schools with an overall enrollment of 1,100. The lower school student-teacher ratio is 11-to-1, while middle school is 17-to1, and high school is 9-to-1. To experience the difference, attend an open house or take a personal tour by visiting www. mtparanschool.com/experience.
“When we began visiting preschools almost six years ago, with my now second-grade daughter, we knew Mount Paran Christian School would be on our list. The teachers love and pour themselves into these children every single day. Academically, they’re meeting my girls where they are, but then pushing them to where they should be. I know that I’m sending them somewhere where they are loved, they’re safe and they’re secure.” — Kate H., current parent PHOTO BY BETH FORNUTO
“My son is currently in pre-K4; we started here at Mount Paran Christian in pre-K3. We were looking for the perfect mix of a Christian environment and academic excellence. Mount Paran set the bar very high. This is the perfect environment for him for the next 13 years.” — Jeff F., current parent
1275 Stanley Road NW Kennesaw, GA 30152 770-578-0182 www.mtparanschool.com MountParanChristianSchool @mtparanschool AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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Building Community In and Outside the Classroom BY RYAN BLYTHE
For several years, I have had the pleasure of working with Scot McKneely, an Etowah High School graduate and U.S. Marine. Scot does an exceptional job training welders at Georgia Trade School, but his story is more impactful than just developing our future workforce. Since 2014, Scot has coached multiple youth baseball teams, beginning as an assistant. For the past three seasons, he has managed teams and served as a first base coach. Scot’s last all-star team, the Kennesaw Generals, reached the Dizzy Dean Tournament and won the 2019 state championship. This accomplishment is remarkable considering the competitive nature of Cobb baseball. Scot McKneely’s (back row, far left) state championship winning Kennesaw Generals. His journey to coaching began six years ago, when Scot’s son, Jackson, wanted to play of students know what they want, but often must learn how to get baseball. Today, Scot has three boys involved in the sport, there, especially learning the value of hard work. Scot is a strong including his youngest son, Levi, and his oldest, Aiden, who plays advocate of mentoring programs and has established those in both on a recreational team for high schoolers. Scot is constantly at environments. This allows him to get into the trenches and show the ballfield, most nights and weekends. His dedication to the students by example how to do things. In welding and baseball, community really shines on weeknights when you consider he has you must learn to take direction, criticism and develop team probably spent the previous eight or nine hours teaching welders. building skills. The competition in youth baseball across metro Atlanta is There are others in North Cobb who put forth this much effort fierce. There are great programs in Powder Springs, Sandy Plains, to build community. I am certainly grateful that Scot is bringing Canton and McDonough. Often parents aren’t ready for their kids real world success and experience to kids across the area. They will to participate in travel baseball, but it is becoming the norm. That benefit from it. tendency bothers Scot, who thinks some children are becoming overworked, which leads to a fallout with the sport because of excessive pressure and the feeling that playing a game has become like work. Scot encourages his players to find a second sport, and to Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, relax and focus on having fun. which, for the fourth consecutive year, was named one of The leadership skills Scot honed while serving our country, help the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year. him in teaching welders by day and baseball at night. Both sets
Understanding Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualification BY JAY WHITE
Buying a new home is an exciting time in our lives, and having proper financing and strategies in place keeps the process enjoyable. The first mistake most people make when deciding to buy is to obtain only a pre-qualification, instead of an actual approval. A pre-qualification, in its simplest form, is when lenders only check credit; they do not verify income, assets and, in many cases, they do not even review the credit in depth. This process is one of the reasons many home loans become difficult to close, and issues arise during the process. Typically, sellers will not accept offers where only a pre-qualification is was obtained. On the other hand, a pre-approval is the process where lenders do a full review of credit, income and assets. During this process, lenders also identify all potential issues, and address those at that 30
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time; then a pre-approval is issued. With this process, there are strategies lenders employ not only to ensure you have an enjoyable experience when you buy your home, but also work with your realtor to ensure you get the house that you want in a multipleoffer situation. You cannot get a mortgage by clicking a button, as some lenders are advertising. Technology is amazing today; however, the person behind the desk can make or break the largest purchase you ever will make. Jay White, top 1% in the nation in mortgage originators according to Mortgage Executive magazine, has 19 years of experience and is a multimillion dollar producer for Bay Equity Home Loans.
Area Moms Celebrate a Fresh Start that says, ‘I can do this,’” Bell said. “After completing the program, we have women who now work Sydney S. has a bright future toward, or have completed, college ahead. The brightest light just might or professional career programs. We be seeing her daughter for the first watch women become taxpayers time in five years. and homeowners – productive “I had a lot of trauma in my life,” members of society, who give back said Sydney, who entered Cobb to the community through service County Community Services Board’s work. Some of our graduates are (CCCSB) Mothers Making a Change looking to give back by working (MMAC) program a year ago. “I am in From left, Lauren W., Amberly H., Sydney S. and Jessica W. toward becoming peer specialists and recovery now and will graduate from celebrate their recent graduation from the Cobb Community professional addiction counselors.” college shortly. This program taught Services Board’s Mothers Making a Change program. Through MMAC, individuals me how to deal with the events in my are empowered to get treatment and maintain their recovery, life that led me here. They (the MMAC team) taught me coping skills obtain and maintain employment, and consistently meet familial to help give my daughters a better life.” responsibilities. CCCSB assists in treatment, recovery and On Nov. 1, Sydney and 19 other women graduated from MMAC, therapeutic childcare. The organization also helps in resolving legal a highly structured, gender-specific, trauma responsive program obligations and makes referrals for safe, affordable housing to set that offers intensive services to pregnant women and women with up a seamless transition when individuals complete the program. children who are 18 years and older with substance use disorders. CCCSB works with the Division of Family and Children Services The event marked a special occasion as program participants’ (DFCS) and the courts to safely transition children back into the successful completion of the program and their continuous growth care of their mothers, as appropriate. Priority admission is given to as individuals in long-term recovery. More than 100 people attended pregnant mothers, IV users, individuals in inpatient treatment, and the ceremony at Worship with Wonders Church in Marietta. Cobb County residents. “There’s a reason why we call substance use disorders ‘cunning, For Sydney, her daughters were the motivation for staying in the baffling and powerful,’ and why it is considered a world-wide program and giving back is a goal she looks forward to achieving. epidemic,” said Christina Bell, director of residential services at “I plan on getting my peer support license,” Sydney said. “I want CCCSB. “This is one of the reasons we’re so proud and ecstatic we to help give back by helping others like me get through this.” have 20 women graduating from our program.” Bell said that because of the desire of the women to seek recovery, eight drug-free babies were born to mothers in the graduating class, and 44 children’s lives are changed because these mothers had the courage to finish the program. Foster Norman is the CEO of the Cobb County “We watch women come into MMAC broken and beaten down, Community Services Board. on the verge of giving up, but holding onto a glimmer of hope BY FOSTER NORMAN
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Duck Hunting Tips to Keep You Safe BY GREG FONZENO
Waterfowl hunting season, usually referred to as duck hunting season, is here. While all hunting needs to be done safely, and with care, hunting on the water comes with its own special dangers. While many typically think of boating accidents and deaths on the water as summer issues, one-third of all deaths on the water occur while hunting or fishing. Hunters statistically are more likely to die from drowning than accidental gunshot wounds. Many boating accidents happen in small open motorboats, 16 feet or less in length. Most hunters who die in boating accidents (70%) fall overboard as a result of either an improperly loaded boat, moving around unsafely in a small boat, or having a hunting dog repeatedly move around, changing the center of gravity in a small boat. As much as it’s emphasized that wearing a life jacket is the No. 1 safety practice for all boaters, 86% of hunters who died in boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. In fact, 47% did not even have a life jacket on board. Such drownings easily are preventable. Modern inflatable life jackets and float coats are easy and comfortable to wear while hunting, even with warm clothing in cold weather. These safety practices will help keep your hunting experience safe and fun, instead of potentially tragic: • Do not exceed your boat’s weight capacity. Check carefully not only the passenger weight, but also that of all your equipment, dog (if with you), food, guns, ammunition, etc. • Leave a float plan with a relative or friend. Include the time you plan to leave, time you plan to return, where you plan to go on the water, a description of the boat, and when and who to call if you are overdue. • Load the boat safely. Keep the weight centered on the boat and balance it throughout. Do not overload. What appears to be balanced when stopped may not be balanced when underway. Don’t allow hunting dogs to move around freely while underway.
• Wear a life jacket or float coat. Be sure it is Coast Guardapproved and fits properly. Modern life jackets and float coats are comfortable and come in hunting styles, including camouflage. • Dress warmly. Cold water immersion and hypothermia are dangerous and can cause death. If your small boat capsizes, get as much of your body out of the water as possible, and stay with the boat to be as visible as possible. Small flat-bottom boats are prone to capsizing more easily. • Use well-trained dogs that are used to working from a boat. • Keep away from alcohol and drugs. Alcohol and drugs have no business being mixed with guns, or boating, anytime or anywhere! • Do not shoot from a moving boat. Establish shooting zones before you start shooting if you have others in the boat. Never shoot outside your assigned zone — NO EXCEPTIONS. • Keep all firearms UNLOADED while the boat is moving.
Treat every firearm as if it were loaded, and always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
• Download the free mobile Coast Guard app to your phone. The Coast Guard app can be downloaded to both iPhone
and Android. It contains all the safety information and boating laws for every state in the U.S. • Take a boating safety class. The local Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a safe-boating class once a month from February through September. Information about taking a boating education class can be requested by emailing the Lake Allatoona Coast Guard Auxiliary at flotilla22pe@gmail.com.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
• Pre-K4 through 8th grade • 66 Years of Catholic education
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SNEAK-A-PEEK Dec 9 at 10 a.m.
OPEN HOUSE Jan 11 at 2 p.m.
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
• S.T.R.E.A.M. activities in all classrooms • Twice-recognized National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence • Religion classes and student-led school Mass every Wednesday • Affordable tuition, scholarships Scan to RSVP
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Beware of Dangerous Toys This Season BY JOEL WILLIAMS
There are few things more disturbing than when a child is harmed by a hidden defect in a toy. Unfortunately, there have been several toy recalls in 2019. Keep your children safe this holiday season by staying current on toy recalls and removing defective toys from your child’s possession.
Recent 2019 Toy Recalls
Go Ahead, Start Dreaming… WE’LL TAKE CARE OF THE REST
Rock ‘n Play Sleepers Seller: Fisher-Price Reason: Infant deaths have been reported from babies rolling over. Cat & Jack Unicorn "Chiara" Boots Seller: Target Reason: The unicorn horn detaches, causing a choking hazard. Barbie Power Wheels Camper Seller: Fisher-Price Reason: Camper can keep driving after the pedal is released. Ubbi Connecting Bath Toys Seller: Pearhead Reason: Broken bath toys could create choking hazard. Mercane WideWheel Electric Scooter Seller: Fluidfreeride Reason: Brake caliper failures, causing fall and injury hazard. Children’s Kickstarter Bikes Seller: Trek Reason: Steer tube clamp can break, creating a fall risk.
Vacation Holidays Home Improvements
Education
Wedding
Debt Consolidation
Baby Push Walker Seller: Crate and Barrel Reason: Choking and cut hazards from exposed parts. Safety Goggles for Extreme Edition Dodgeball Game Seller: Exploding Kittens Reason: Safety goggles create a danger of cuts on the face.
Additional Recalls
Sadly, there have been too many recalls this year to list them all. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a full list of recalls that can be found at www.cpsc.gov/Recalls. Safe Kids Worldwide also maintains a list of recalled products that is updated monthly. www.safekids.org/product-recalls.
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Injuries from Recalled Toys
There are instances when consumer recalls come out too late, and children are injured before their parents even know about a recall. In these situations, parents may be able to bring a products liability claim for the injuries their child suffered. Under Georgia law, toy manufacturers and sellers must make sure the products they make, sell and market are safe for their intended purpose. If your child is harmed by a defective toy, be sure to keep the toy and contact a lawyer who can determine whether you have a viable product liability claim.
Joel Williams is a partner at Williams|Elleby, a Kennesaw based personal injury law firm. gatrialattorney.com
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Run With Rob BY ROB MACMILLAN
Race planner Rob Macmillan, center, with friends Dylan Mullen, left, and Todd Marovich. Top, runners at the start of the race.
Overall race winner Brent Harris. 34
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We held the first 5k Run With Rob on Nov. 9. It was very cold but also very fun. It was a race through the golf course at Bridgemill which was wonderful and I think everyone enjoyed their run. I ran with my friends and my dad. It turned warm and I think everyone was probably thankful for that. I usually play golf and ride on a golf cart on the course, but running it is extremely hard as there were a bunch of hills which made it very tough. The run raised $1,100 for The Grey Project who was the beneficiary of the run. The Grey Project does TNR (trap, neuter, return) and feeds free-roaming cats in Cherokee County. I interviewed them a few years ago and you can read that interview on my website (www.robsrescues.com). The sponsors of the run were: Freshens Fresh Food Studio, eBryIT Computer Services, Vanessa Mullen Premier Homes, Prestige Medical Group, GSI Inc., Fun-Fare, Bridgemill Dentistry, McStatts Printing and Aroundabout Local Media. Classic Race Services did all the timing and these are the winners in the different age groups. Overall male winner: Brent Harris; overall female winner: Caroline Olvin; overall Master's male winner: Doug Mulkey; overall Master's female winner: Amy Krumrey. These were the other winners in their age categories: Todd Henry Marovich, Brent Hohn, Peyton Cummings, Breanna Washam, Tiffany Fletcher, Sarah Short, Cassie Bartz, Marie McMichael, Matt Taylor, Gordon Macmillan, Melinda Eubanks, Mike Hohn, Judy Hohn, Gary Lineback and Ernest Smallman. I thought next year we might do a golf tournament and another 5k.
Ella Adams with 7-month-old Novi.
Rob, far right, runs the race with his dad and a friend.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANGELA RICE, SHOT FROM HEART PHOTOGRAPHY.
Natalia Redmon holding puppy Simba. Novi and Simba are available for adoption at Refuge Rescue. http://refugerescue.org.
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Rob’s Rescues Project Chimps I interviewed Leslie Wade who is the director of communications for Project Chimps, in Blue Ridge.
This dog’s name is Morocco, and her tag number is 616754. She is a pit bull mix and needs training. She is very energetic, so she will need some exercise. She likes affection, and when you talk to her she calms down. She is 1 and a half years old, and has been at the shelter since July. She is very sweet as well. She will be a great family dog if she can find someone that will do some training with her.
What does Project Chimps do, and when did it start?
We provide chimps that were involved in medical research with a forever home. The property was bought in 2014, and was ready for the first chimps in 2016.
Where did you find the chimps?
We provide shelter, food and enrichment (puzzles and activities), and the opportunity to be outside for the rest of their lives.
Did you always want to work with chimps, and what is special about them? Many of us were inspired by Jane Goodall and the awareness she brought to the plight of chimps. Chimps are very intelligent and emotional beings.
Where did you find the chimps?
These come from the New Iberia Research Center, affiliated with the University of Louisiana.
This cat’s name is Selma. She is 2 years old. Her tag number is 617975. She has been at the shelter since August. She was a stray gray tabby. She is super sweet, and I could hold her easily, as she liked to be held. Also, her eyes are a great color. These animals are available at the Cobb County Animal Shelter, 1060 Al Bishop Drive SW, Marietta. 36
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How many chimps are here, and what is their favorite thing to do?
We have 59. We are hoping to have 100 by year end. There are 120 more still waiting in the lab. Their favorite activities vary depending on their personalities. Some love the outdoors, some don’t. Some have favorite toys. Some love puzzles.
Rob with Leslie Wade of Project Chimps.
Do all the chimps get along?
They generally get along. Sometimes, they get into fights, but make up quickly. Minor squabbles happen over food. Sometimes, they are trying to get more dominant or preventing others becoming dominant. Chimp politics is a thing!
What is the best thing about working with chimps? Watching them thrive after coming here. Seeing how they respond to having choices — like who to hang out with, what to eat, whether to go outside, what to play with, etc.
What do you have to study to do what you do? Some chimp caregivers did college programs studying primates. Some here worked their way up, starting as a volunteer.
How can I and the community help you? Volunteering is a great need. Helping prepare meals, puzzles, building climbing structures. There are many volunteer opportunities. Visit www.projectchimps.org.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. www.robsrescues.com. On Facebook @robsrescues.
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School News
Mount Paran Completes Capital Campaign Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS), the largest private Christian school in Cobb County, recently announced the conclusion of its 12-year $30 million-plus capital campaign. The third and final phase of the Imagine Tomorrow Capital Campaign is now fully funded. The Murray Innovation Center, shown above, will be an $11 million high school expansion that doubles the size of the high school and includes innovative learning space. The funds raised also include a $1 million building maintenance endowment. The space demands created by increased enrollment and a shifting curricular emphasis requires a state-of-the-art innovation center addition. The new high school building will be an innovation center, with radical spaces to learn, test, collaborate, grow, and think outside the box. The new Murray Innovation Center, named for Stuart and Eulene Murray, will include spaces for additional STEAM classrooms, engineering and PLTW course rooms, art and graphic design studios, maker space with materials, a robotics construction area and fabrication lab, ideation zones and concepts gallery, digital theater environments, and student collaboration areas with chat and share rooms. Mount Paran plans to break ground on the Murray Innovation Center in spring 2020, with doors opening for the 2021-22 academic year.
Area Teachers Earn STEM Recognition Recently, seven Acworth area teachers earned a Cobb STEM Distinguished Educator Award. A total of 11 teachers from across the Cobb County School District won the STEM honor this year. “This program is designed to recognize exceptional K-12 teachers in our district who have made a commitment to meaningfully implementing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in their classroom,” said Tania Pachuta, STEM professional learning specialist for the district. The top Cobb STEM Distinguished Educator Award went to Kimberly McCreary of Pickett’s Mill Elementary School. McCreary, who teaches first grade, launched STEM clubs at two different schools and regularly incorporates STEM instruction into her lessons. She also has earned a Science Endorsement and participated in the Innovation Academy. Award winners receive various prizes, with the top winner earning a Sphero robot for use in her classroom, along with a trip to a Georgia educator conference of her choice. The awards were sponsored by NexAir LLC, a leading distributor of atmospheric gases and welding supplies, with locations across the mid-South. 2019 Cobb Distinguished Educators (from Acworth schools)
Kimberly McCreary
Pickett’s Mill Elementary, Top Winner
Heather Bell
Barber Middle, Gold Level
NCHS Seniors Host ORANGe Town Hall North Cobb High School seniors organized an inaugural town hall entitled Our Role As a New Generation (ORANGe). The event was put together by the North Cobb School of International Studies in conjunction with the Politclub. At the town hall, important issues were discussed, such as student loan debt and college affordability, voting rights and youth access, and education funding, including the HOPE Scholarship. Students who participated in the event were able to ask questions of a panel of elected officials, including Cobb School Board member Randy Scamihorn, Cobb Commissioner Keli Gambrill, State Reps. Ginny Ehrhart and Ed Setzier, and field representative William Anderson. 38
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Courtney Payne
Acworth Elementary, Gold Level
Stacy Melton
Frey Elementary, Gold Level
Maggie Gudgel
Frey Elementary, Silver Level
Lauren Ross
Frey Elementary, Silver Level
Kimberly Sanders
Frey Elementary, Silver Level
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School News KSU Students Reimagine Homeless Shelters Nearly two dozen Kennesaw State University (KSU) students participated in the Mad Houser Hi Hat Competition, an extracurricular event in which students across KSU’s two campuses formed teams to design and conceptualize structures that could be used by the homeless population in the greater Atlanta area. The competition, which opened in August, concluded last month with team presentations. The competition was held by KSU’s Campus Awareness, Resource and Empowerment (CARE) Services program and the Department of Architecture in support of Mad Housers, an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to providing shelter to the homeless. It challenged students across multiple disciplines to refine the design of a Mad Housers shelter, known as the Hi Hat. The Hi Hat is a simplistic and utilitarian structure designed to shelter the homeless temporarily and improve their quality of life. Students were required to form teams with at least one architecture student, one construction management or engineering student and up to four students studying in any other degree program offered by the university. Designs were judged on a number of criteria, including sustainability, health and
KSU student Nicholas Halford and team Community Corners present their project.
welfare, technology system, alignment with Mad Housers’ goals, and overall design quality. Cash prizes were awarded to first and second place teams, with the winners receiving additional funding to build a full-scale version of their design. In all, four teams entered the competition and presented their work. The winning team, Hoot Hoot, was praised for its holistic approach to improving the Hi Hat by adding additional functionality within the proposed $300 to $500 building price range. The team’s shelter included a second floor, with storage compartments tucked under the
Members of the winning team, Hoot Hoot: Steven Yang, Christine Vu and Nelida Gallardo. 40
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stairs, a rooftop garden and the option to include solar power. Nicholas Halford, whose team, Community Corners, focused on creating a network of modular units to build a sense of community, said the interdisciplinary approach to the competition provided perspectives he might not have encountered otherwise. “I feel like I learned from each of the projects presented,” Halford said. “To me, the biggest takeaway may have been hearing from the folks at Mad Housers (about) the real-world implications each of the designs have, and how it could help meet their goals. It was super helpful to hear from their experience on such a large subject.” Ed Akins, an associate professor of architecture who helped coordinate the event, said each of the designs presented has the potential to be used by Mad Housers. First place: Hoot Hoot – Nelida Gallardo, integrative studies; Christine Vu, architecture; Steven Yang, architecture; and Steven Kimble, construction management. Second place: Community Corners – Nicholas Halford, architecture; Cameron Shaprio, architecture; Brendan Lydic, architecture; Justin Simes, architecture; Trevor Foster, mechanical engineering; and Daniela Vinueza, English.
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Same Story, Different Ending
KSU celebrates immediately after winning match point. 42
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF KENNESAW STATE ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
Owls Clinch ASUN Title BY NATHAN BRYANT
371 days. That's how long the wait has been for the Kennesaw State University (KSU) volleyball team. The Owls sat on their home floor at the Convocation Center one year ago, watching Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) celebrate its 2018 ASUN volleyball championship, and that memory has burned a hole ever since. On Nov. 23, the Owls exorcised those demons at Alico Arena in Fort Myers, Florida. "It's truly hard to find the words at this point to describe how we're all feeling," KSU head coach Keith Schunzel said. "I am oozing with pride and pure joy of what our program just did. We had so many reasons to lose that match, and our team just kept fighting over and over and over again." The highly touted FGCU Eagles came into the conference championship match as the No. 1 seed and overall favorite to repeat as champions, dropping only eight sets in conference play, including four to the Owls. Squaring off for the third straight year in the ASUN championship, the Owls and Eagles are no strangers to big-time showdowns. The two teams split the season series, each winning on their respective home courts. With FGCU an undefeated 13-0 at home in Alico Arena this year, KSU's players had their work cut out for them. "My heart hurts for FGCU's players and coaches, who played an incredible match and had a wonderful season and deserved to win that match as much as we did," Schunzel said. KSU won the first two sets, 27-25 and 25-22, but FGCU rallied to claim the next two sets with identical scores of 26-24. The two teams showed why they were the top teams in the league, going pointfor-point deep into sets throughout the match, and forcing a fifth set. Keeping with the theme, the two squads fought tooth-and-nail to close out the match, with FGCU holding an 8-7 lead as the two teams switched sides midway through the fifth set. Trailing 10-8, back-
The 2019 ASUN Volleyball Champions, the Kennesaw State Owls, advance to the NCAA tournament.
to-back kills from junior Lauren Chastang put the Owls back on level terms, only to fall behind again 12-10. Chastang would not be denied, putting the match on her shoulders and recording three more kills to give the Owls match point, 14-13. KSU then called on sophomore Dani Ballou, who did not disappoint, recording her 22nd kill, a career-high, to secure the championship. "Dani Ballou taking that huge swing on match point, in that moment, after getting blocked on match point in last year's final, is one of the most wonderful and proud moments of my coaching career," Schunzel said. KSU got strong performances from all over, as Chastang (20 kills, 12 digs) and senior Lexi Broadwater (69 assists, 13 digs) each recorded double-doubles. KSU logged a season-high 102 digs, as five Owls finished in double-figures, led by junior Karlee Groover with 28, followed by a career-high 24 from freshman Shelby Dennis. Four Owls recorded double-digit kills, as junior Quin Sutphin finished with 18 to go along with seven blocks, and sophomore Powder Springs native Jasmine
Brown logged 13 kills, while hitting .320. "There were so many fantastic individual performances I wouldn't even know where to start," Schunzel said. "Our team and coaches just kept believing. We kept battling and kept going for it and that makes me so incredibly proud as a head coach." At press time, the Owls were waiting to see where they would end up during the NCAA Selection show Dec. 1, as they headed to their second NCAA Tournament in three years.
ASUN All-Tournament Team Honors Dani Ballou (Tournament MVP), Jr., OH Karlee Groover, Jr., DS Quin Sutphin, Jr., MB Lexi Broadwater, Sr., S
Nathan Bryant is in his second season as an assistant director of athletic communications at Kennesaw State University.
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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
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Fish Thyme Restaurant and Bar
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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
How to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss BY DR. SARAH LICHT
Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the leading causes of permanent hearing loss. However, it is 100% preventable if you take the correct measures. According to the American Speech and Hearing Association, of the 40 million individuals with hearing loss, 10 million have been identified with noise-induced hearing loss. When an individual is exposed to a noise as loud as a lawn mower for more than 8 hours at a time, permanent damage most likely has occurred. The louder the noise, the less exposure time is needed to cause hearing loss. There are two primary types of hazardous noises: occupational noise, meaning factory or mechanical work, and recreational noise, like lawn equipment, loud music, power tools, firearms, motorcycles, etc. There are also unexpected noises that are difficult to predict, such as a loud explosion, or even a child’s toy. Studies have shown some children’s toys can emit sounds up to 120 decibels, which equates to the level of a jackhammer. Once the ear has been exposed to these sounds past the recommended exposure time, the tiny hair cells in the inner ear become damaged, and are unable to recover. The damage affects the ability to hear and understand speech. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides several strategies to help prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
1.
Educate yourself. Be aware of the noise levels around you, and how they can affect your hearing. If you must yell over background noise to be heard, then the environment is too loud. If, after leaving a noisy environment, your hearing is muffled and you hear ringing in your ears, these are signs the environment is too loud.
2.
Download an app. There are apps, such as Decibel X,
available for smartphones to help you measure environmental noise levels. We live in a noisy world, and it doesn’t seem to be getting any quieter. It is up to you to be aware of the noises around you.
3.
Protect your ears. It is important to use hearing protection and limit sound exposure time. You always can increase the distance between yourself and hazardous noise, or use hearing protection; this will reduce the intensity of damaging sound delivered to your ears. Also, remember to protect the ears of those who are too young to do so for themselves, and inform family and friends about the dangers of excessive noise levels.
Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016.
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Around & About DECEMBER Through Dec. 24
Free Photos with Santa at the Battery Atlanta. On
various dates and times until Christmas Eve, the Battery Atlanta will offer free photos with Santa presented by SunTrust. There will be a Santa Paws Night for fourlegged family members from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 and 15. A special low sensory Sensitive Santa experience for families with special needs will be available from 10 a.m.noon Dec. 8, 15 and 22. Reservations for Sensitive Santa sessions are available at http://bit.ly/SensitiveSanta2019.
7, 14
Come celebrate Christmas in Acworth these two Saturdays when 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 on Dec. 14, departing from Senator Russell Avenue. While visiting downtown, visit Frana Brown Park where local schools, businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees for the Festival of Trees.
7 Christmas Bazaar,
Acworth Presbyterian Church, above, will hold a 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 front doors for the church’s 150-year-old building. This kicks off the church’s campaign to raise funds for repairs on the historic building at 4561 Church St., Acworth.
with The Grinch. He’s been on 14 Breakfast the naughty list, but he’s trying to be nice! Enjoy breakfast at the Acworth Community Center 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. Residents $10, nonresidents $15. Register online at www.acworthparksandrecreation.org.
Santa is ready for photos with children at Christmas in Acworth. 46
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Kennesaw Parks and Recreation and the KennesawAcworth Optimist Club host Breakfast with Santa at the Ben Robertson Community Center (2753 Watts Drive, Kennesaw) with all-you-care-to-eat pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee and table-to-table visits with the jolly old elf himself. Two seating options are available, 8-9:15 a.m. and 10-11:15 a.m. Advance tickets are $6 per person. Children 2 years and younger are free, but must sit on an adult’s lap without a ticket. Purchase tickets online (www.kennesaw-ga.gov/parks-and-recreation/) or in person at the Ben Robertson Community Center.
Aboard for Holiday Fun! Experience 14 All the “The Polar Express” alongside real-life, historic locomotives at the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History with festivities for kids of all ages. The event is free with regular museum admission. The highlight of the event will be a screening of the Christmas classic “The Polar Express.” There will be two showings, 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Prior to each screening, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., the popular children’s book upon which the movie is based will be read aloud. Kids are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas or winter clothing.
20-21
The Atlanta Braves and U.S. Ski & Snowboard have teamed up
to host Visa Big Air Presented by Land Rover at SunTrust Park. Visa Big Air, which will be a sanctioned FIS Snowboard and Freeski World Cup event, will be the first event of its kind in Atlanta. The two-day event highlights Olympic winter competitions, featuring elite international men’s and women’s big air athletes. The competition will take place on a 15-story steel scaffold jump structure that will be installed at SunTrust Park, while 800 tons of snow will be brought in to create a surface where world's best freeskiers and snowboarders can perform. For more information, visit www.Braves.com/VisaBigAir.
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Celebrate the second night of Hanukkah at Acworth’s annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. The menorah is located at the corner of Cowan Road and Main Street in downtown Acworth. Rabbi Zalman Charytan from the Chabad Jewish Center will officiate the lighting with Mayor Tommy Allegood assisting. The eight-day Jewish holiday commemorates the Jewish Maccabees' military victory over SyrianGreek oppression more than 2,000 years ago.
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The Battery Atlanta will celebrate the New Year with its third annual New Year’s Eve Bash presented by Xfinity. Braves in-game host Mark Owens will emcee the evening. The early innings family event, for those wishing to ring in 2020 early, will be from 6-8 p.m. in the Plaza. The Heavy Hitters and Blooper will be on hand as well as performance painter David Girabaldi. At 8 p.m., the balloon baseballs will drop in celebration of the New Year. Late innings festivities start at 9 p.m. with the 12South Band and Girabaldi providing entertainment from the Georgia Power Pavilion Stage. The midnight countdown will include pyrotechnics and 2020 will begin with a confetti and aerial fireworks display.
JANUARY
6
The North Cobb Regional Library (3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw) will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive from 1-6 p.m. To schedule an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 770-8015320. Walk-ins are welcome. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with written parental consent. There is no upper age limit to donate. Allow an hour for your donation and bring any form of photo ID with you. A single blood donation could save as many as three lives.
annual MLK Day Celebration and ninth annual 20 Seventh Day of Service hosted by the Acworth Parks, Recreation and
Community Resource Department. Festivities will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a unity walk, followed by a 10 a.m. ceremony. The Acworth Achievers Mentoring and After School Program will work on a service project at Roberts School Community Center and welcome other volunteers from the community to join them.
REGISTRATIONS Parks and Recreation // Community Center 770-917-1234 • www.acworthparksandrecreation.org
Youth
Special Warriors Taekwon-Do
This program is great for the young community with special needs. The traditional skills of Taekwon-Do have been adapted to teach focus, balance, hand-eye coordination and effective self-defense skills to those with special concerns. This class is taught by Omar Welch, who is a third degree black belt and instructor certified by the U.S. Taekwon-Do Federation. Classes will be on Saturdays, Dec. 7-Feb. 29 (no classes on school breaks). $65 for residents, $70 for nonresidents. Register online.
Art Explosion Winter Break Camp
Get those creative juices flowing for a full week of non-stop art experiments and activities. Each day of camp will focus on a different art medium such as fabrics and dyes, paper, paint, clay and more. Campers should dress in clothing that can get painted, stained and splattered. For ages 5-12 during Cobb County winter break (Feb. 17-21) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Drop off starting at 7:30 a.m. and late pick up ends at 6 p.m. $115 for residents, $140 for nonresidents. Register online.
Community Classes 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. Classes offered monthly on Tuesdays or Thursdays. Each session is $25 for residents, $30 for nonresidents. Register online.
Athletic Registration Pickleball Lessons
Pickleball is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. Become a pro pickleball player by taking lessons. Novice instruction is available Tuesdays, Jan. 7-28 from noon-1 p.m. or 1- 2 p.m. Intermediate classes will meet Thursdays, Jan. 9-30 from noon- 1 p.m., with semi-private intermediate instruction available from 1-2 p.m. Novice and intermediate classes are $40 for residents and $45 for nonresidents. Semi-private instruction is $60 for residents and $65 for nonresidents. Register online or in person. AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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@ the Library Dec. 9
Dec. 19
2-3 p.m. Join Andrew Bramlett, in conjunction with the Kennesaw Historical Society and the Save Acworth History Foundation, as he explains where Santa, Christmas trees, Rudolph and other holiday traditions originated.
3:30-4:30 p.m. Independent readers can sign up for a 15-minute session of reading to a certified CAREing Paws therapy dog, Lexi. For first- through fifth-graders. Registration required.
Stories from the Past: A History of Christmas Traditions
CAREing Paws: Read to a Dog
Dec. 10
Dec. 28
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 Final Problem” from “The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes” and “The Adventure of the Empty House” from “The Return of Sherlock Holmes.”
1-3 p.m. Independent readers can sign up for a 15-minute session of reading to the library’s certified therapy dog, Hope. Registration required.
Sherlock Holmes Story Discussions
Dec. 12, 19, 26, Jan. 2, 9
Meetup for Adults With Special Needs
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.
Dec. 12
Jedi Training
3:30-5 p.m. Achieve the rank of Jedi Master in just one afternoon! Get ready for the release of “The Rise of Skywalker” with some “Star Wars”-themed activities and crafts. Costumes are highly encouraged. For all ages, and no registration required.
Dec. 16
Artist’s Afternoon Basics: Watercolor Techniques
Read to a Dog
Dec. 30
Family Movie and Craft Night: Happy Feet
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 “Happy Feet” (rated PG, 108 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.
Jan. 6
TABASCOS
5-6 p.m. TABASCOS (Tween Activities But Also Some Cool Other Stuff) is a weekly program for students ages 8-12. Join for STEM challenges, art projects, games and other fun stuff. This program is for ages 8-12 only. Parents/caregivers are expected to remain in the building during the program.
Jan. 7
Toddler Storytime
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.
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.
Preschool Storytime
Dec. 17
Baby Lapsit Storytime
Tuesday Book Discussion
2-3:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join a book discussion with coffee/tea and friends. December's selection is Mary Kay Andrews’ “The High Tide Club.” Books are available at North Cobb Regional Library's information desk. No registration necessary.
Dec. 18
Wednesday Book Discussion
1-2:30 p.m. Join a book discussion with coffee/tea and friends. December's selection is Dorothea Benton Frank’s “The Christmas Pearl.” Books are available at North Cobb Regional Library's information desk. No registration necessary. 48
North Cobb Regional Library • 3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw 770-801-5320 • www.cobbcat.org/venue/north-cobb-regional-library
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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.
Jan. 8
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
4-5 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.
Teen “Whatever” Wednesdays
4-5 p.m. Ages 13-18 are invited every Wednesday for craft, game or movie time. No registration required.
Senior Activities CITY OF ACWORTH Parks and Recreation Department 770-917-1234 • www.acworthparksandrecreation.org
Dec. 18
Active Adult Luncheon includes lunch, bingo and other
special activities at Tanyard Creek Overlook at the Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee St. Lunch is served at noon. Bingo with prizes after lunch. Free.
Wednesdays
Mary’s Chair Yoga. 10-11 a.m. Residents $20, nonresidents $25. 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 Dec. 18 and Jan. 8-29.
COBB COUNTY North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St., Acworth • 770-975-7740
Dec. 10
Friends of North Cobb. 1-2 p.m. Have fun using your creativity throughout the year to raise funds for North Cobb Senior Center. Funds will contribute to maintaining and enhancing center programs and projects.
Dec. 11
Guardianship/Conservatorship. 10-11 a.m. Free, but registration is required. Seminar will discuss what adult guardianship and conservatorship are, when they might be used and how to obtain them. Presented by Erika Orcutt of Orcutt Law. 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.
Dec. 16
Cool Kitchen Gadgets and Hacks: Dollar Tree. 1:15-2:15 p.m.
Fridays
Free, but registration is required. Learn tips and tricks to organize your kitchen right from the dollar store.
nonresidents $25. Registration required. Maintain balance and flexibility through gentle non-strenuous yoga poses. Classes are Fridays through Dec. 27 and Jan. 3-31.
Dec. 18
Mary’s Gentle Yoga. 10-11 a.m. Residents $20,
ALOHA TO AGING 4608 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 770-722-7641• info@alohatoaging.org
Dec. 17
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
Jan. 7
Crafting Corner: Miniature Christmas Ornaments. 1-2 p.m.
Choose from holiday colors of yarn and make miniature Christmas hat ornaments to share, give away or hang on your Christmas tree or mantle. Residents $3, nonresidents $4.
Dec. 19
Online Registration “How To.” 10-11 a.m. Free, but
registration required. Having trouble navigating the Civic Rec online registration system? Learn how to sign up for classes and activities at your favorite center from home.
Jan. 2
AARP Smart Driver. 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Registration required.
Bring lunch and check with your insurance agent about a possible discount for taking this class. AARP member $15, nonmember $20.
Jan. 3
Bingo. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Registration required. $3.
Jan. 8
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.
Culinary Creations: Hearty Party Soups. 1-2 p.m. Registration required. Wear a cozy sweater and learn how to make hearty winter soups, including a cream bisque and a surprise soup. Residents $3, nonresidents $4.
Tuesdays
Jan. 9
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.
is required. This course is for those who want to learn CPR, but don’t need a course completion card in CPR for their job. Class is ideal for grandparents, babysitters and others interested in learning how to save a life. Presented by Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services.
Aloha Day Club meets 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Open to adults
Friends and Family CPR. 10-11:30 a.m. Free, but registration
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
49
Cobb Photographic Society Black & White Prints
Bob Gunning - 1st Place (Lily)
Sally Hale - 2nd Place (Feathered Reflection)
Novice
Chris Pietrzykowski - 1st Place (A Quiet Day) 50
AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Chris Pietrzykowski - 2nd Place (Solitude)
Congratulations to each of you who entered the Cobb Photographic Society Competition. The topic for the October contest was “Simplicity or Minimalism.� The guest judge was Larry Winslett. 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. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.
Color Prints
Paul Shimek - 1st Place (Turquoise Water and Boat)
Sue Lebeaume - 3rd Place (Solitude) AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH BAPTIST
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
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 52
AROUND ACWORTH | December 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 | December 2019
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Advertisers DECEMBER 2019
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC 678-250-9355 www.nelsoneldercarelaw.com
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Tidwell Strimban Injury Lawyers 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
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CLEANING SERVICES Carpet Dry Tech 678-368-5991 www.gracecounselingga.com
26
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CREDIT UNIONS Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
Back cover
Daniel Lee DMD, PC 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com
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EDUCATION/TUTORING Brookwood Christian 678-401-5855 www.brookwoodchristian.com
3
Chattahoochee Technical College 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu
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Your CBD Store-Acworth 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com Your CBD Store-Towne Lake 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com
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HOLIDAY EVENTS
Summit Church www.summitchurch.org
45 9
HOME & GARDEN 37
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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
Hoya Merry Market
Mt. Paran Christian School Cover, 28, 29 770-578-0182 www.mtparanschool.com St Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org
FUNERAL SERVICES
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implants Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com
COUNSELING Grace Counseling 678-481-2183 www.thrivecounseling.com
LGE Community Credit Union 770-424-0600 www.lgeccu.org DENTAL
CHIROPRACTIC Joint Chiropractic, The Acworth: 678-574-5959 Woodstock: 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com
FOR ADVERTISING RATES AND INFORMATION Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
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Carpet Dye Tech 678-368-5992 www.carpetdyetech.com
26
Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com
17
Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
41
Pineapple Park 11 678-494-8494 Park Warehouse, The 678-401-4893 www.pineapplepark.com Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com
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INSURANCE State Farm Jeff Langley 770-628-5676
3
MEDICAL North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.yourhearinglink.com
One Dead Bug 404-704-4685 www.onedeadbug.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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Photography by Ed Selby 678-860-1546 www.edselbyphoto.com
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REAL ESTATE 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
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Holbook of Acworth, The 404-445-7777 www.holbrooklife.com
7
Lindsey Haas Team Direct line: 678-933-1962 Office: 770-240-2005 www.thehaasteam.net
3
SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES
Shot From the Heart Photography 41 www.shotfromtheheartphotography.com
OPTOMETRIST TrueVision Eye Care 770-529-7789 www.truevisioneyecare.com
PEST CONTROL
Celebration Village 678-594-3570 www.cvillage.com
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 2019
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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. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
Around Acworth Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500
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AROUND ACWORTH | December 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