12-22 AroundAcworth webfinal.pdf

a 9,000-square-foot facility that has opened the door for Drs. Heath and Ashley Trowell to offer new services and new personnel. Hair and makeup for cover image by Crystal A. Nix.

Around Acworth

Letter From the Editor

Something about this time of year makes people reflect on the past, and I’m no different. Decorated trees and favorite carols always take me back to the Christmases I celebrated as a kid. Man, were there some good times! During this year’s holiday trip down memory lane, I’ve been thinking about the Christmas celebrations I used to go to that aren’t around anymore.

One of my favorites was the lighting of the Rich’s Christmas tree in Atlanta. Each year, we’d ride the MARTA train downtown on Thanksgiving night and join thousands of revelers in welcoming the start of the Christmas season. We’d watch choral groups perform on the four-story Crystal Bridge that linked Rich’s with its next-door neighbor. Then came the culmination of the evening — lighting the live tree, which ranged from 65 to 75 feet and featured thousands of lights and basketball-size ornaments. Sadly, that tradition ended when the store closed in 1991.

Another favorite event also was in downtown Atlanta — the Festival of Trees. The celebration started with a parade, which included some balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, then continued as a dayslong festival at the Georgia World Congress Center. I looked forward to this event every year. We would stroll through sections of beautifully decorated trees, gingerbread houses, wreaths and vignettes; decorate (and eat) huge sugar cookies; watch my sister and, later, my son make crafts and ride the carousel and the famous Pink Pig (for a few years), shop for gifts and decorations; and, of course, visit Santa. I even got to meet my baseball hero, Dale Murphy (who belongs in the Hall of Fame, but I digress), and have my picture taken with him. What a thrill! Unfortunately, the festival as we knew it ended in 2006.

For many years, my family would take a trip to Paulding County to see the Hardy Lights at the compound of the Charles Hardy family, and there were several years when I went to Marietta’s Theatre in the Square to see “Sanders Family Christmas,” a hilarious comedy that provided me with many one-liners that I still use. Those, too, are now bygone traditions. These traditions may be gone, but we’re offering you a guide, beginning on Page 15, to all things Christmas to help you start or continue your own traditions. Find out about light displays and holiday activities, try some cookie recipes or learn how to help those in need. We also asked the experts questions about Santa and his helpers, so be sure to read what they had to say on Pages 22-24.

Merry Christmas, and happy reading!

the Save Date

Planning a wedding next year? Look for the results from our Best for Bridal 2023 online poll to be posted Jan. 1 at www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com and published in the January issue of Around Acworth.

Kudos!

The Save Acworth History Foundation and city of Acworth presented the third annual Nancy Maxwell Award to Ernestine and Dallas Godfrey in a ceremony Nov. 17 at the Depot. This award recognizes people who have made a significant contribution to preserving the heritage and history of the Acworth community.

Dedication

On Nov. 16, the Save Acworth History Foundation and the city of Acworth dedicated the historic marker erected on Main Street across from Scoops in honor of Dr. Richard Rosenberger, whose medical practice has been a mainstay in the community since 1972. The Vietnam veteran also has served on the Downtown Development Authority and the Main Street Program.

Ribbon Cutting

Kerley Family Homes, 3957 S. Main St., Acworth 770-792-5500, www.kerleyfamilyhomes.com.

Donna Harris is the managing editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She’s a Cobb County native and a veteran journalist with newspaper and magazine experience. Email her at donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Donna Harris

Nancy Maxwell, second from right, presents the award bearing her name to Ernestine and Dallas Godfrey, as Mack Turner, left, of the Save Acworth History Foundation looks on.

Mack Turner, Dr. Richard and Melody Rosenberger, Yvonne Leander and Becca Kienel attend the dedication ceremony.

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

President Kim Dahnke 770-778-5314 kim@aroundaboutmagazines.com Vice President of Sales Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Managing Editor Donna Harris 770-852-8481 donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Content Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 jessica@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Production Manager Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Page Designer Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Graphic Designer Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 denise@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith 770-615-3324 michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com

Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Around Acworth, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are directly mailed to homes and businesses, and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month.

Around Acworth welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first, and the advertising deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Acworth, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189.

The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims to the validity of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses.

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 2022.

Volume 7, Issue 5

ACWORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT

A Tribute to a Visionary Leader

BY JESSE EVANS

As a law enforcement professional for well over 20 years, I have been intimately familiar with the Acworth Police Department (APD) through my work as a prosecutor. I have seen firsthand the department grow and develop under the leadership of Chief Wayne Dennard over the past decade. Chief Dennard is not one to boast; his accomplishments speak for themselves and are a testament to his outstanding leadership. He is humble and has the grace of a truly exceptional leader. He views his accomplishments as the result of great teamwork, and he is right. The greatest teams have great leaders, and he’s shown what great team leaders can accomplish.

The massive strides made by the Acworth Police Department in the past decade are due to Chief Dennard’s investment in each individual on the team. He looked closely at their talents and abilities and placed them where they could best succeed and make the most impact. That drive to put the right people in the right places was a catalyst for building a strong and capable branch of the city team. As a result of strong communication, transparency and a shared desire to provide the highest quality of service to the community, Chief Dennard and his team have developed an award-winning, state-certified,

highly trained and well-respected public safety agency. Acworth has been recognized as the safest city in the state, and Chief Dennard and his department led the way.

Under Chief Dennard’s leadership, the Acworth Police Department has become a model of the best practices in community policing. The entire team has embraced the motto, “Spend time and do the right thing.” These words are displayed prominently on the walls of the department and are the guiding principles for the entire staff. Spending time might seem like a simple idea, but our community is a better place because of the time and commitment the department has invested in the community. I have experienced the benefit of being treated with kindness, compassion, respect and patience by APD, both as a private citizen and as a prosecutor. In short, Chief Dennard has built an incomparable team and a timeless legacy.

Because of Chief Dennard’s visionary leadership, I hope my transition from prosecution to chief

of police will be seamless. I’d like to thank the APD officers and staff for welcoming me with open arms. This is an exciting time for all of us. Together, we will do amazing things. I am grateful and incredibly excited for the opportunity to build upon Chief Dennard’s legacy and to help ensure the continued success of the department he has led and loved with such dedication.

I have lived in the Acworth area most of my life. I grew up here and graduated from North Cobb High School, and my wife and I chose to raise our kids in this community, knowing it is perhaps the best place in the state to live, work and play. Simply put, we love Acworth, and there is no place like it. So, when I was asked to serve as chief of police upon Chief Dennard’s retirement, I knew it was exactly where I needed to be — home.

Chief Jesse Evans has served more than 20 years as a prosecutor and law enforcement professional. He is a native of Acworth and knows there is no better place to live, work and play.

Chief Dennard built an incomparable team.

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com

January deadline is Dec. 10.

Please specify Around Acworth. Word limit: 25.

Anika and Anay Age 11 on Dec. 14

Happy birthday, Anika and Anay!

We love you so much. From your whole family.

Anslee

Happy ninth birthday, Anslee! We love you very much!

Love, Mommy, Daddy, Sissy and Lucy

Hudson Fleet

Dominick James Bruley

Age 7 on Dec. 25

Happy birthday! We love you!

Love, Mama, Daddy, Nana and Aunt Linda

Happy sixth birthday, Hudson! You’re my forever favorite, and I love you more than words can say!

XOXO - Mommy

Adam Welch Age 10 on Dec. 7

Happy birthday!

Love, Mom, Dad, Jill and Jazzy

Callaway Dec. 15

Happy fifth birthday, Callaway! We love you so much!

Love, Mom, Dad and Marley

Hanukkah — The Miracle of Lights

BY JOSEPH PRASS

As the days become darker and colder, Jews around the world will kindle lights in the festive eight-day celebration of Hanukkah. Also called the Festival of Lights, the holiday is commemorated with candle lighting, food, family and joy.

The historical events upon which the celebration is based are recorded in Maccabees I and II. In the year 168 B.C.E. (Before Common Era), Greek soldiers invaded the Temple in Jerusalem and set up a statue to Zeus, thus defiling the sacred space. The Greeks took away the religious freedoms of those in the land of Israel. Though greatly outnumbered, a group of Jewish resisters, led by Judah Maccabee, fought back and defeated the invaders and restored the Temple. In reclaiming it, they cleared the pagan statues and rededicated the space. From this act, the holiday was called Hanukkah, which means “dedication.” They also lit the ritual lamps but only had enough olive oil to burn for one day. Runners were sent to find more oil to keep the lamps lit, but none was to be found. Miraculously, this small amount of oil burned for eight days, until more was acquired.

While historians debate some of the details of this account, it’s clear this is a stirring story of how a small

group was able to stand up against overwhelming forces and emerge victorious. Perhaps this is the true miracle and inspiration of Hanukkah — that anyone can make a difference in the world, no matter the obstacles.

This year, Hanukkah will begin at sundown on Dec. 18 and conclude on Dec. 26. During this time, Jews will light an eight-branched candleholder called a menorah as a reminder of the oil lasting eight days. Each night, another candle will be added. In addition, singing special songs and playing games with a top called a dreidel are part of the holiday. And to remember the significance of the oil, Jews eat food prepared in oil, such as potato pancakes (latkes) and jelly-filled donuts, as a special treat during Hanukkah.

Rooted in ancient tradition and story, Hanukkah is a rich, meaningful and joyous break from the long, dark winter months.

Rabbi Joseph Prass is the spiritual leader of Congregation Ner Tamid in Marietta. In addition, he serves as the director of Holocaust education at the Breman Museum in Atlanta.

A Message From the

As we usher in the holiday spirit throughout oour city, we’re reminded of what a blessed year Acworth has had in 2022. We began this year celebrating all the good things to come, and now we’re welcoming a season of joy and thanksgiving.

There’s so much about the holidays that makes things feel really special. Whether it’s the cooler weather coming in or the joy among neighbors in the hustle and bustle of the season, there’s a magic in the air that seems to reiterate everything wonderful about our city. We hope you enjoy the holidays here in Acworth this year. With lots of events and festivities planned for the city, we look forward to your family making unforgettable memories.

With 2023 swiftly approaching, our next generation of leaders on the city team is excited to keep moving forward, creating and sustaining a great quality of life for our residents. This year, we updated the structure of our leadership by implementing multiple deputy city managers to create more efficient levels of support for our team.

Deputy City Manager Brandon Douglas remains the decision-maker in the absence of the city manager, but he’ll also have the development team, buildings team and city clerk’s office reporting to him. Deputy City Manager Diana DeSanto will remain the city treasurer and will be responsible for Finance and customer service as well as Information Technology and Human Resources. Deputy City Manager Angie

Luna will continue to serve as director of Power and Public Works but also will supervise the Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department.

Further, the chief of police also will be a deputy city manager and will continue to oversee the city’s Public Safety Department. As our friend and colleague, Chief Wayne Dennard, moves into retirement in the new year, we are looking forward to introducing Acworth to its new chief of police, Jesse Evans.

With these new roles for our deputy city managers, our next generation of leaders will be able to create a streamlined level of support for our departments and allow our entire city team to do its job more effectively, which will serve our residents even better than before.

As you and your family enjoy the warmth and wonder of the holidays, the city team and I would like to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

As always, for the latest information on any of our events and projects, you can 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.

May God bless you and your families.

— 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!

all-star SEASON

Hit a home run for the holidays.

It’s the most wonderful time to put a little more cheer in your wallet. LGE members earn high dividends and rewards on everyday purchases, from marshmallows for toasting to gifts for the whole family. When it comes to planning for the holidays, LGE’s checking, savings, and certificates of deposit make it easy to knock it out of the park. Learn more at LGEccu.org

Member Since 2012

Specialty cocktails.

Customer Service

A TOP PRIORITY AT WASABI

Ying Jiang (Jenny) and her husband, Wenqing Weng (Leo), opened Wasabi Sushi and Steak earlier this year as an investment in their family’s future and a desire to serve the community they call home. It didn’t take them long to fall in love with Acworth after moving here in 2017 from New York.

“The atmosphere is great, the people are friendly, and it's a great place to raise a family,” Jenny said.

Opening a restaurant was a natural step for Jenny and her family, including brothers and sisters who have worked in the industry for many years.

“Our team has more than 10 years experience in the restaurant industry,” she said. “I’ve worked for more than a decade as wait staff, so I truly understand customer service.”

Catering to the customers’ needs is a top priority at Wasabi. Extra effort is taken to meet customers’ dietary requirements, with options for people with food allergies to seafood or those who require gluten-free alternatives. Food is prepared without MSG.

Proper health protocol is followed by servers.

Concerns about health and safety, since the restaurant opened during the pandemic, led to a spacious interior design that also is wheelchair accessible, so customers can enjoy the ambiance and feel at ease.

ON THE MENU

The extensive menu ranges from hibachi to sushi and ramen to udon, so there’s something for everyone. Other important facts to note:

• Wasabi has a liquor license and a full bar, offering classic drinks as well as special cocktails and Japanese spirits.

• Sushi chefs each have 10 or more years of experience.

• All ingredients are fresh and high quality.

A CELEBRATION DESTINATION

Jenny recounts a recent birthday celebration Wasabi hosted for a Kennesaw State University student. Staff members took photos provided by the celebrants and projected them on the wall of the party room. “They seemed incredibly happy,” she said.

During this first year, Jenny said they are focused on customer feedback and learning what the community likes as they continue to fine-tune their restaurant to satisfy customers and grow their business.

“Come in for a meal, and we hope you will have a memorable experience. The atmosphere is very unique; you have to see it to believe it!” Jenny said.

Sushi chef Paul. PHOTOS

RED BARYL PORTRAITS

Thanos Roll and Acworth Roll.

Observing the Advent of Christ

BY JULIE FULLER

So, have you made your list and checked it twice yet? Started listening to Christmas music or watching those Hallmark Christmas movies? Perhaps you’re dreading the holiday season due to a loss during the past year. Wherever you are on this journey through the holidays, I invite you to join me in preparing for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Advent is a time when we need to stop focusing on ourselves, our to-do lists and what we don’t have and focus on what we have been given through Jesus. Advent — the four Sundays leading up to Christmas — is the season when a lot of Christian churches prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth in the manger, as well as the return of Christ at the second coming.

Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect and who look forward to something greater to come.” During the holiday season, we tend to lose focus on the true meaning of Christmas. We get so bogged down with wish lists, to-do lists and all the festivities that we forget why we are celebrating.

Each of the four Sundays in Advent has a focus: hope, faith, joy and love. The first Sunday represents the hope we have through the coming of Christ and the hope that forgiveness offers us through Jesus. The theme for the second Sunday is love — the unconditional, limitless love God has for the world and the love we should have for one another. The third Sunday is for joy, as in Philippians 4:4-5, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” The fourth Sunday’s focus is peace — Jesus as peace on earth and the peace he offers us that passes all understanding.

As we journey through this holiday season, how can we be active participants in Advent and anticipate the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? Instead of stressing about lists and parties, may we seek Jesus in a whole new way this month. Let us pray more, seeking God with all our heart, mind and soul. May we join the angels in singing praises to a newborn savior who rescues us where we are and changes us from the inside out with God’s love.

ShopLOCAL!

AROUNDABOUT LOCAL MEDIA’S MISSION STATEMENT:

We know that shopping must be on your mind, now that the Christmas season is upon us; it’s definitely on our radar! To be helpful to our readers and our local merchants, we are bringing a holiday focus to our Shop Local map by making it more prominent in our December issue. You’ll find the map of downtown Acworth businesses, with ideas for places to shop, eat, pamper yourself and explore.

You might want to tear out the map pages to keep handy as you venture out into the community to go shopping. After so many challenges in recent years, now is a perfect time to visit our local retailers. They’ll be happy to see you, and you can leave with the satisfaction that you’ve been a part of contributing to the economic development of our amazing community.

We hope you will share the love, shop local and support our community businesses. Have a blessed holiday season!

The Rev. Julie Fuller is mom to Davis and Dallas and pastor at Acworth Presbyterian Church. Connect with her and the church on Facebook and at https://acworthpresbyterianchurch.org/.

Helping Hand Lend a

Many of our friends and neighbors struggle financially every day, and the holiday season is especially difficult. As Christmas approaches, the needs among local nonprofits have increased as the directors and volunteers are working to make sure everyone has a great holiday season. Here’s a list of organizations devoted to helping others. Please do what you can to help, whether it’s donating money or time.

Acworth Police Department Christmas Shoppe

www.acworthpolice.org

Every year, the Acworth Police Department invites parents in need to 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-age children. Donations can be dropped off at the police department anytime before Dec. 15. 770-974-1232, ext. 1145.

Cherokee Family Violence Center

www.cfvc.org/donate-now Cherokee Family Violence Center has a transitional housing complex, with 72 apartments and an emergency shelter that accommodates 12 women and children affected by domestic violence. The Christmas wish list includes weekly meals through the holidays for shelter residents, canned items (like soups, meats, fruits and vegetables) and overthe-counter medications for cold and flu season. Additional donation items include unscented laundry pods, dishwashing pods, paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, plastic utensils, new pillows, white linens for twin and full beds, white towel sets (washcloths, bath towels and hand towels) and new undergarments for all ages. Contact 770-479-1804, ext. 101 or volunteers@cfvc.org.

Cobb Christmas Stuff-A-Bus

www.cobbchristmas.net/stuff-a-bus

Help the Stuff-A-Bus program brighten the holidays for local children in need by donating new toys, food or monetary contributions to Cobb Christmas, a nonprofit, nondenominational organization that helps low-income families during the holidays. It is 100% run by volunteers, so all donations go directly to help the community. Cobb Christmas provides a minimum of three ageappropriate toys to each child, ages 3-13. Families go through a qualification process. Check the website to find a donation location near you or drop off donations 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 13-15 at IAM Lodge 709 (1032 S. Marietta Parkway, Marietta).

Cobb Senior Services

www.cobbcounty.org

Brighten the holidays for senior clients. Ways to help include:

• Donate gift cards. Cards for Kroger, Publix, Walmart and Target allow seniors to purchase much-needed items.

• Make a monetary donation. Donate funds at https://bit.ly/3SCii9i.

For more information, contact Andrea Rapowitz at andrea.rapowitz@cobbcounty.org or 770-528-1445.

Encompass Ministries

https://encompassministriesinc.org

Encompass Ministries and its food pantry offer year-round food and stability, as well as life-skills training assistance. 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 on the website. For more details, call 770-591-4730.

Family Promise Cobb County

www.family promise cobb county.org

Family Promise serves housing-insecure families with children by providing shelter through community faith partnerships. While the family has shelter, the day center staff stays busy working to help the adults find jobs, learn budgeting and connect with benefits and services that will help them. Donations of gas cards and Walmart, Publix, Kroger or Target gift cards are requested to help the families being served. Donations of new bed pillows, laundry detergent, cleaning supplies, paper towels and toilet paper always are needed.

Forever Fed

www.foreverfed.org

Forever Fed, a mobile food ministry, hosts multiple food pantries a month in outdoor settings. There are many opportunities to partner with the nonprofit in building up our community with compassion: volunteer, donate nonperishable foods, send a financial gift or even hold a food drive. For a complete list of events and volunteer opportunities, visit the website.

Goshen Valley Foundation

www.goshenvalley.org

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch attempts to provide a memorable Christmas experience for foster children, with the community’s help. This includes building traditions and talking about the true meaning of Christmas, as well as fulfilling young people’s wants and needs through gift-giving, to teach them that they are loved. With 42 kids to purchase gifts for, Goshen Valley relies on the generosity of the community to fulfill these wishes. A list of gifts has been compiled on Amazon through a charity wish list. For details, visit http:// goshenwishlist.org, email Executive Director Stacy Cooper at scooper@goshenvalley.org or call 770-796-4618 for a clickable link to view gifts the boys have requested.

The Hope Box

www.thehopebox.org/donat

The Hope Box, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing abandoned babies and toddlers, needs donations via gift cards for Walmart 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.

Jerry Worthan Memorial Christmas Fund

www.facebook.com/KennPD

Each year, Kennesaw Police Department hosts the Jerry Worthan Memorial Christmas Fund, which ensures Kennesaw children don’t go without Christmas gifts. The KPD is accepting monetary and toy donations. Drop off all donations at the police department by Dec. 14. To adopt a family for Christmas, contact KPD_PIO@kennesaw-ga.gov or 770-429-4532.

KSU CARE Services

http://care.kennesaw.edu

The Campus Awareness, Resource & Empowerment (CARE) Services office offers program support to students who are experiencing homelessness, food insecurity and/or the foster care system. Monetary donations to the fund can make a huge difference in the lives of students and their academic careers. There is an online shopping gift list for granting holiday wishes to students within this special population. For details, contact CARE Services at careservices@kennesaw.edu or 470KSU-5260 or check out the website at care.kennesaw.edu.

MUST Ministries

www.mustministries.org

The MUST Ministries Toy Shops program provides Christmas presents for nearly 6,000 children in poverty who otherwise might not wake up to anything under the tree. The program supports children of all ages, and the parents are able to “shop” for toys, gifts and other items, such as blankets and underwear, that are specific to their children’s needs. For more information on toys that are needed and how to donate, visit mustministries.org/toy-shop or email toyshop@ mustministries.org. MUST also is in desperate need of winter coats of all sizes to keep their clients warm during the winter months. Please consider bringing gently used or new coats to the MUST Donation Center, 1280 Field Parkway, Marietta, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays.

The MUST Ministries Toy Shops program provides gifts for children who might not have anything on Christmas.

Helping Hand

Never Alone

www.neveralone.org

The food pantry is seeking partners to help fight hunger in our community. The pantry provides more than 126,100 meals to approximately 800 households each month. Never Alone’s partnership with the Atlanta Community Food Bank allows it to purchase food at greatly discounted prices. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation online at www. neveralone.org or by check, made payable to and mailed to: Never Alone Outreach, P.O. Box 1904, Woodstock, GA 30188.

North Georgia Angel House

www.angelhousega.com

The organization has served girls since 2006 by providing shelter, life skills, job readiness services, family support and more for up to 40 females at a time. Current needs include: MP3 players, earbuds, gift cards for clothing or activities in the area and journals. Visit the website to donate, or shop on Amazon Smile and select North Georgia Angel House Inc. as your charity to support.

SERV International https://servone.org/foodlocal

The nonprofit provides food to local families and to complex regions globally. With the help of volunteers, 800 SERV food boxes are delivered each month to families in need. To sponsor a local family for $35 a month, visit the website. For volunteer opportunities, email info@servone.org.

Simple Needs GA

www.simpleneedsga.org

The Spirit of Christmas program helps school- and agencyreferred families who are getting close to Christmas and were unable to register for other local programs earlier in the year. Volunteer opportunities include buying requested presents, wrapping gifts, making deliveries, sorting and organizing, and more. For more information, email brenda@simpleneedsga.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 year-round to distribute to children in need during the holiday season as a way of spreading joy to the less fortunate. Visit the website for an updated list of collection sites in Acworth and Kennesaw.

Light the World: Mobile Giving Machine

BY SUSANNAH MACKAY

Every month this year, I have featured service ideas and opportunities that can be found on justserve.org. This month, I am pleased to share an extra special holiday opportunity. JustServe is proud to partner with the Giving Machine, a popular and visible part of the Light the World initiative, sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This initiative invites all people to share goodness, spread kindness and extend love through service in December. The Giving Machine, a vending machine with cards representing items needed by global and local nonprofit organizations, makes it easy to do just that.

Since the debut of the first Giving Machine in 2017, thousands of people have visited, contributing more than $15 million. And, this year, metro Atlanta residents have the chance to participate in the debut of the Mobile Giving Machine (www.mobilegivingmachine.org) at The Interlock ATL, 1115 Howell Mill Road NW, Atlanta. Visitors can select items they are most drawn to, such as meals, clothing, beds, blankets, toys, livestock and more, and make a donation in the machine. For every purchase, 100% of the donation goes toward the items and charities selected.

JustServe is thrilled to have two wonderful Atlanta nonprofits featured in the Mobile Giving Machine. The first, Wellspring Living (https://wellspringliving.org), is Atlanta-based and works

to provide specialized recovery services to those who have been victims of human trafficking. The second charity, The Children’s Haven (https://cherokeechildrenshaven.org), is based in Cherokee County and works to support children in foster care.

You can support these charities by visiting the Mobile Giving Machine Dec. 6-11. The machines will be parked on Beeline Boulevard, and there will be games, entertainment and more. Don’t miss this chance to bring cheer to those in need; join with friends and family to make a new holiday tradition. For more information, including hours and directions, scan the QR code.

Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprofit, or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!

Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @JustServeGeorgia.

Wondered Have You Ever

In the spirit of the season, we thought we’d go to the experts — preschoolers, kindergartners and first-graders — to get the real scoop on Santa, Mrs. Claus and their helpers.

?How does Santa travel the world in one night?

• By his magic reindeer. — Blakeleigh O.

• Deers get up and puts presents in the chimney because Santa puts presents down the chimney. — Charly F.

• Everyone is sleeping, so they do not know. — Titus W.

• He uses his magic to make the reindeer go faster. — Jakko R.

• He gets in his sleigh and goes house by house. — Lillian P.

• He uses his sleigh and his reindeer to use his magic. — Austin B.

• He travels really fast; it would be really hard. — Josie Z.

• With fast reindeer, they run so fast Santa can’t catch up with them. — Emma S.

• Easy, his sled can fly to the houses. — Isaac G.

• Does he travel like to India and stuff? Maybe he tells his reindeer to go faster. — Dayton

• He just comes through all the fireplaces with the glass. He can do it. — Kamryn M.

• He does it with his sleigh and they put sausage on the red nose. — Blakely J.

• He goes to different houses. He goes to mine first. — Tayson T.

• He walks. — Caiden D.

• With a plane. — Eli

Walker P.

Presley S.

Eli

Kamryn M.

Why is Rudolph’s nose red?

• Because there is snot in your nose and it makes your nose bleed and turn red. — Vanessa V.

• Because Jesus made him that way. — Liam C.

• He fell on his face. — Noah Be.

• He was born for the stormy night and he can lead Santa’s sleigh when Santa can’t see. — Hunter D.

• Because its Christmas. — Walker P.

• Because he’s sad because something bad happened. — Andrew W.

• I think Santa painted his nose red and he put magic stuff on his nose. This way it will glow. — Christian M.

• He needs it to see when it is dark. — Zander F.

• Because he eats cherries. — Fernando R.

• He was born with it. — Bryson W., Presley S.

• He ate too many apples. — Genevieve K.

• He has a special red nose because he is sad or happy or mad. — Jackson S.

• Because he’s the leader. — Isaac G., Collin M.

• Probably because he got hurt. — Carson

• Because his mom or dad had a red nose too. — Henry Because that is his favorite color. — Shelby

• Because God gave him that. He needed it for smelling. — Hudson B.

• They put sausage and ketchup on his nose. — Blakely J.

• Because it is supposed to glow to get him through the dark night. — Lily W.

• Because they like red, but I like blue or white. — Noah Ba.

What do reindeer like to eat?

• Mints. — Maya J.

• Reindeer food! Sometimes they eat grass. — Bellamy J.

• They eat oatmeal. — Olivia M.

• They are magic reindeer, so I think they eat magic candy. — Erin N.

• They eat like these little nut things. — Austin B.

• Feet. — Sean O.

• Hmmmm. I don’t know. — Isaac G.

• Candy canes. — Carson, Elijah, Brynley, Walker P., Presley S.

• They eat carrots, green beans, broccoli, and milk, sprite and water to drink. — Kamryn M.

• Beef. — Eli

• Broccoli. — Vanessa V.

• They eat the little bag of reindeer food. — Shelby

• They probably eat grass and sandwiches. — Blakely J.

• They eat grass, meat, turkey, and that is it. — Noah Ba.

• They eat grass and skin. — Kennedy C.

What do the elves do while the children are sleeping?

• They make a mess. — Bryson B.

• Bring a Christmas Tree when I get back from the beach. — Andrew W.

• They sit on our counter. — Ethan K.

• They do bad stuff. — Tyler

• They sneak in you house and bring presents. — Kai G.

• They go to different places and they tell Santa how we are doing. — McCade C.

• Puts Christmas trees up. — Vanessa V.

• They write notes to kids. — Reagan S.

• They go back to Santa to help people get more presents and stuff. — Collin M.

• They set up surprises for the kids in the morning. — Olivia M.

• Play hide and seek. — Lorelei T.

• Give them Christmas presents. — Jesiah A., Eli, Hudson B., Palmer A., Blakely J.

• They hide presents. — Dominick C.

• They look for stuff in the house. — Brayden M.

• Look if your naughty for nice. — William L.

• Prank them. — Sean O.

• Hide. — Emma S.

• They move to other places. — Jackson S., Brynley

• The elves put the presents in Santa’s bag. — Sindara

• They are asleep. — Caiden D. They wake them up. — Kennedy C.

Bryson W.

Hunter D.

Olivia M.

Sean O.

How does Santa get down the chimney?

• Oh I know! Some houses don’t have chimneys so sometimes he has to go through the window. He has to try to push himself right down the chimney. — Bellamy J.

• Santa climbs up the top and comes down the square thing where all the air comes out in your house. — Adelyn J.

• Slides down on his tushy. — Blakeleigh O.

• Grabs all that big fat and slides down there. — Presley S.

• He goes on the chimney and pushes presents down first and then he jumps down into the fireplace. — Reagan S.

• He falls in the chimney. — Olivia M., Sindara, Walker P.

• He put wheels on his hands and feet and slides down the chimney. — Jakko R.

• He drops his bag in and jumps down. — Giovanna Z.

• He jumps down and uses his hands to stop himself. — Bryson T.

• He gets down there with a rope. — Allie R.

• He goes in the fire way. — Kennedy C.

• A deer bucks him down. — Caiden D.

• He can squeeze his body down the chimney. — Sean O., Josie Z.

• With a rope by tying it to something and going down it. — Macie G.

• He gets down the chimney when he doesn’t get fat. — Eli

• By going in it and jump and he’s usually too big to get in it, somebody is going to have to help him get in it. — Isaac G.

• By breathing in. — Henry

• He puts his shoulders up and he puts his hands by his side and he slides down. — Dayton

• I don’t even know because I’ve never saw Santa go down the chimney. — Steele

What is Mrs. Claus’ job during the Christmas season?

• Stays at home and does laundry. — Avery V.

• Mrs. Santa’s job is to be a bad elf because she’s rude. — Bryson B.

• She cleans the house. — Maya J.

• She gets Santa a present and wraps it. — Noah Be.

• Helping all the elves. — Josie Z.

• She sews stockings. — Presley S.

• She plays. — Walker P.

• She makes cookies. — Lorelei T., Bryson W., Clara

• I think she watches to see if the kids are being good. — Braylin E., Jackson S.

• She helps Santa pack the gifts. — Shelby B.

• She delivers presents with Santa. — Ava T., Carson, Isaac G., Allie R., Hudson B.

• Work out. — Sean O.

• She sleeps. — Eli, Henry

• Probably taking care of the reindeer. — Shelby

• She sits down. — Alana

• She makes sweaters. — Dayton

• Make yummy food. — Brynley

• Her job is to make sure the kids don’t wake up. — Lily W.

• She decorates the Christmas tree. — Tayson T.

• She delivers girl presents. — Noah Ba.

• She makes soup. — Caiden D.

• She puts Christmas trees up and presents in our classroom. — Vanessa V.

Josie Z.

Hudson B.

Shelby

Bellamy J.

Isaac G.

Vanessa V.

Holiday Happenings

Through Dec. 11

Holiday Market will take place 10 a.m.-6 p.m. MondaySaturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday at the Art Station — Big Shanty, 2050 Kennesaw Due West Road, Kennesaw. The market will feature handcrafted treasures made by local artisans. www.artstationcobb.org

Through Dec. 26

Town Center at Cobb is home to the Festival of Trees , bringing the community together during the holiday season to raise awareness about local nonprofits. The public can view the trees during mall hours in the Belk wing. www.NorthAtlantaEvents.com

Dec. 7

The Helping One Guy Christmas Concert will be 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Northstar Church, 3413 Blue Springs Road, Kennesaw. Listen to a variety of classic songs from such acts as The Quadraphonics, Ollie Patterson and Chris and Ramona Wiggins of the 293 Band and enjoy a meal catered by Copeland’s of Kennesaw. All proceeds will benefit Helping One Guy, which honors a man — and his family — who’s going through a life-changing crisis. https://bit.ly/3UnLDpf

Dec. 9-10 2022 Christmas at Piedmont Arts and Crafts Show will be 5-9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday at the church, 570 Piedmont Road, Marietta. The event will feature arts and crafts exhibitors from the Southeast, festival food, entertainment by school choruses and local dance groups, free rides on the 50-foot snow tube 6-9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., a free petting zoo Saturday, free photos with Santa 6-9 p.m. Friday and noon-3 p.m. Saturday, free children’s activities, roasting marshmallows and s’mores, and more. Admission and parking are free. 770-423-1330 or laura@jrmmanagement.com

Dec. 10

The Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department will present Breakfast With the Grinch, 9-9:45 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee St. Enjoy breakfast while the Grinch visits each table for photo opportunities. After breakfast, kids will create Grinch-themed ornaments and crafts. Space is limited, and each family member attending must register. https://bit.ly/3zb7TKD. Volunteers also are needed to help serve breakfast. If interested, contact Jordon Gonzalez at jgonzalez@acworth.org.

Santa will return to the depot in historic downtown Acworth for Christmas in Acworth, with photos from 1 to 5 p.m. Photos are free, but bring your camera, as there will not be a photographer on-site.

Dec. 10

All Aboard For Holiday Fun, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., returns to the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. Featured will be screenings of “The Polar Express” at 11:15 a.m. and 2 p.m., pictures with Rockin’ Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus in front of the The General locomotive from 1-4 p.m. and a Golden Bells of Atlanta performance at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Other activities include letters to Santa, leather Christmas ornament stamping, Christmas card printing, an interactive model train layout and children’s crafts. Free with regular museum admission. https://bit.ly/3O1voM1

Dec. 13-14

Santa’s Gonna Ring-a-Ding-Ding kids who want to speak directly to the big guy in red, 5-6 p.m. each day. Acworth Parks and Recreation is collecting requests for phone calls at https://bit.ly/3tonpiP.

Dec. 14

The second annual Acworth Christmas Golf Cart Parade will begin at 6 p.m. and proceed through downtown and nearby neighborhoods. Bust out the garland, solar-powered lights and tinsel to make your golf cart as festive as possible. Participation is free, but registration is required. https://bit.ly/3zb7TKD

Dec. 20

The city of Acworth, in partnership with Chabad of Kennesaw, will hold its annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. at Logan Farm Park, with a reception afterward at the Acworth Community Center.

Dec. 23

Congregation Ner Tamid will have its annual Menorah Lighting on the Marietta Square at 6:30 p.m. Join Rabbi Joseph Prass for the lighting celebration, featuring Hanukkah music, free hot chocolate, doughnuts, door prizes and lots of chocolate gelt.

Dec. 25

Celebrate Christmas Day at Kennesaw First Baptist during one service at 11 a.m. in the Gathering Center. Child care will be provided. www.kennesawfirst.church

Santa will be on hand for photos in front of The General at the Southern Museum.

Light Displays to Brighten Your Holidays

If you’re looking for the biggest and brightest light displays of the season, this is the list for you! Load up the car with family and friends, put on your favorite holiday music and have a de-light-ful time walking or driving through twinkling displays both near and far.

Through Dec. 23

Holiday Lights of Hope opens nightly at 6 p.m. at Hobgood Park in Woodstock. The event features a huge walk-through Christmas light display with more than 2 million lights. Cost is $10 per person. Kids ages 14 and younger admitted free. Proceeds benefit the Anna Crawford Children’s Center. No pets allowed. https:// bit.ly/3GspZJM. For the most up-to-date information regarding weather closures, visit the Holiday Lights of Hope Facebook page.

Visit Mountain Country Christmas in Lights, 6-9 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 4-9 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 10 (and every night Dec. 15-23), at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. Enjoy a winter walk through thousands of lights and exhibits. There will be Christmas music, arts and crafts vendors, holiday food and pictures with Santa. https://bit.ly/3GA0I0C

Through Dec. 26

This year marks the final season for Lane Lights at 770 Fox Hollow Parkway, Marietta. The free light display runs nightly, 6-10 p.m., weather permitting. www.facebook.com/LaneLights

Through Dec. 30

Visit Pettit Creek Farms In Cartersville for A Country Christmas celebration, beginning at 6 p.m. TuesdaysSundays. Take a hayride ($10 per person) or drive through more than a mile of Christmas lights ($30 per car). Activities include visiting Santa and his reindeer, a Nativity scene and petting zoo, Christmas trees and more. https://pettitcreekfarms.com/a-country-christmas-final

Through Dec. 31

Lights of LIFE is open nightly, rain or shine. The display opens at dark and runs until 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at Life University, 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta. Cost is $10 per car/truck; buses are $20. Fees for individual goods and services are at the discretion of the vendors. www.life.edu/lights-of-life

Riley’s Rockin’ Christmas Lights features more than 60,000 LED lights synchronized to nearly an hour of holiday music at 2008 Palladium Drive, Kennesaw. Donations are accepted in the red Santa’s Letters collection box, to benefit the Children’s Burn Foundation. The show is on a varied schedule. For dates and times, visit www.facebook.com/RRXmas.

Light Up the Holidays at Barnsley Resort visitors (including those who are not staying overnight) are welcome to view more than 1 million lights and festive decor in the historic 1800s manor house ruins, surrounding gardens and English-style village. There is a small fee for self-guided tours at 597 Barnsley Gardens Road, Adairsville. www.barnsleyresort.com

Holiday Lights at Veterans Park opens nightly at 6 p.m. Enjoy a 2-mile drive through the Christmas light show. Admission is $20 per car. For the most up-to-date information, visit www.facebook.com/HolidaylightsatVeterans.

Photo courtesy of Holiday Lights at Veterans Park.

Photo courtesy of Holiday Lights of Hope.

Through Dec. 31

The annual Smoot Christmas Lights for Lupus display runs 5:30-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays and 5:30-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The family decorates their home, 3699 Autumn View Drive, Acworth, with a variety of lights and fixtures that are synchronized to music. Free hot chocolate and cookies are offered, 6-8 p.m. Saturdays, and all collected donations go to the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.

The Holly Springs Light Show provides uplifting holiday entertainment nightly, 6-11 p.m. at First Baptist Holly Springs. It is free to attend, but donations are greatly appreciated at the clearly marked boxes. https://www.facebook.com/hollyspringslightsshow

Through Jan. 1

Lights of Joy, the largest residential Christmas light display in Georgia, has more than 1 million lights. Open nightly, 6-11 p.m. at 1510 Ben King Road NW, Kennesaw. Park at Influencers Church across the street, walk to see the lights in this free display and enjoy sections synchronized to Christmas music. No pets allowed. www.lightsofjoy.net

The Hrockin Hranicky Christmas Light Show is 6-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays and 6-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at 3848 Rivers Run Trace NW, Acworth. The show is free, but there is a donation box for Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. (Look for the mailbox attached to the Snoopy doghouse.) www.hrockinhranickychristmaslights.com

Drive through Reindeer Road, open nightly, 6-10 p.m. at 250 Cobb Parkway N., Marietta. Whiz through mountainous terrain, traverse glacial peaks, explore northern ice caves and make your way through the northern forests to the heart of it all — Santa’s Workshop — the world’s largest animated toy shop. https://bit.ly/2ZtC5C4

Visit Holiday In the Park select dates at Six Flags Over Georgia. Millions of lights and dozens of Christmas trees create a magical atmosphere during the holiday season. This holiday classic includes luminous lights, festive foods, shows, and, of course, Santa! https://bit.ly/3nEWFal

Celebrate the season with Stone Mountain Christmas, on select days, at 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. Millions of lights, Christmas shows, a parade featuring Santa Claus and more create a night to remember. Don’t miss the scenic railroad, journey through the musical frosted forest and the world’s largest Christmas lights show. www.stonemountainpark.com

Through Jan. 2

Fantasy in Lights celebrates 30 years at Callaway Gardens, 17800 Highway 27, Pine Mountain. New this year is a scene on the lake and the Callaway Christmas village. Walk and drive through 10 million twinkling lights and 2,500 acres of Christmas cheer. Named one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the World. www.callawaygardens.com

Through Jan. 8

Due West United Methodist Church is presenting Light the Night (formerly the Calumet West Christmas House) 5:309 p.m. nightly at 3956 Due West Road, Marietta. The display features more than 50,000 lights, ornaments, characters, west Cobb’s tallest Christmas tree, a gingerbread house and a real sand beach with a 13-foot working lighthouse. Entertainment will be provided 7-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. A $10 donation for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Due West UMC missions is requested.

Through Jan. 14

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights features blooming bulbs, a radiant rainforest, poinsettia tree and more at Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. A tunnel of light, the radiant ice goddess and the glittering galaxy will embrace visitors in enchanting light. Timed tickets are available online. www.atlantabg.org

Through Jan. 15

Illuminights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival brings a one-of-a-kind holiday light experience to Zoo Atlanta, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Stroll through the zoo after dark to see more than 80 nature-inspired lanterns. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for ages 3-11. https://zooatlanta.org/event/illuminights

Through Jan. 16

Stroll through Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular, nightly at 5 p.m. through Jan. 4 then weekends only through Jan. 16, at Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Gainesville. All ages will enjoy the magical walk through a lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. Then, stop at License to Chill Snow Island, with one of the fastest snow rides in North America, ice skating, a snow play area, carnival rides and more. www.lanierislands.com

The Smoot Family’s annual Lights for Lupus display benefits the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.

WHAT’S NEW AT

Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine has a new home in Kennesaw, a 9,000-square-foot facility that has opened the door for Drs. Heath and Ashley Trowell to offer new services and personnel as they look forward to the new year in 2023.

The new two-story office features a sleek and modern medical atmosphere. Patients enter into a retail space that is dedicated to skin care and the newlyadded Jane Iredale mineral makeup line. The space features tall ceilings, a custom air scent diffuser and has more exam rooms to enhance the medical and aesthetic experience.

Under one roof, patients can access a range of services, from primary care medicine with sick and wellness exams for adults and children, to aesthetic treatments, hormone balance treatments and weight-loss programs.

“Patients love to come to our clinic because they have the convenience of getting their medications refilled in the same appointment as a flu shot and a Botox touch-up, while their children get their sports physicals,” Dr. Heath said. 3105 Loring Rd. NW, Suite 100, Kennesaw, GA 30152 678-888-5181

AT GOVERNORS?

IN PERSONNEL. Wendy Allard, NP-C has joined Governors as a medical aesthetician. She is a board-certified nurse practitioner with more than 15 years of clinical experience. Wendy’s career started in intensive care and transitioned to emergency medicine. She spent almost a decade at Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta as a trauma emergency nurse, then moved to Tanner Medical Center. She gained experience in retail medicine when she worked to expand CVS Health, Minute Clinic, before pursuing aesthetics.

Wendy is certified in medical aesthetics, focusing on neuromodulators and dermal fillers. At Governors, she combines her love of medicine with the ability to bring out the inner beauty in her patients. She is a perfectionist with a conservative approach; she believes that looking good on the outside can have an impact on how a person feels on the inside.

IN WEIGHT LOSS. The doctors are seeing a common struggle among their patients. Say goodbye to the freshman 15 and hello to the COVID 25!

“We have many patients still dealing with the aftermath of COVID-19 from a weight perspective,” Dr. Ashley said. “To help, we have several programs in our clinic that assist with this: appetite-suppression medications, energy-boosting shots and the newest treatment: Semaglutide.”

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 product that helps the body process foods and sugars, decreases appetites and is safe to use for several months to help patients reach their goal weight. Another new injectable medication is Ipamorelin, which is a natural growth hormone that increases cell synthesis and increases ghrelin in the stomach, which releases GH and controls hunger.

IN REJUVENATION. “Let’s talk about sex! No one wants to talk about sex or menopause, which are two things that change as we age,” Dr. Ashley

said. “We now offer several procedures and medications to maintain your sexual function and desire that may otherwise decrease because of the aging process in men and women.”

Exilis Femme 360 is an FDA-approved procedure to assist in urinary discomfort and increase blood flow to the vagina for lubrication and pleasure. Injectables including the P and the O shot for men and women are available. Biote HRT can assist in desire and comfort for men and women, along with the new PT-141 that works as an injectable Viagra that has fewer side effects and lasts longer than traditional treatments.

IN AESTHETICS. A variety of medical-grade facials and treatments are available with little or no downtime. The latest options include combination treatment therapies: Microneedling with RF followed by Sculptra or TCA application, or by CoolPeel resurfacing laser with PRP. Vi Peels are being combined with neurotoxins or fillers post-application. Diamond Glow is a three-in-one exfoliant, pore reduction and serum-infusing facial that leaves the skin literally glowing for several days.

IN COMMUNICATION. Governors has a new app to download that allows patients to schedule appointments, view monthly promotions, and purchase flash sales at their leisure. A QR code for Biote allows direct ship-to-home purchasing of supplements.

PHOTOS

BY RED BARYL PORTRAITS

Looking Ahead to Trends for 2023

BY ELISABETH STUBBS

The best way to describe the numerous interior design trends for 2023 as a whole is diverse. There are some new colors, new textures and new materials, but, most importantly, there are new moods. The moods are varied, but most involve some degree of comfort — either physical or emotional.

We have come to appreciate our living space much more the past few years, as people have gone from having to be at home to wanting to be at home in an environment that expresses their personalities and individual tastes.

“How people want to decorate has recently shifted,” designer Lee Broom said. “For a start, we’re all craving a better outlook, and part of achieving that is to condition your own brain to think more positively, which you can do by surrounding yourself with things that make you feel happy.”

Some of the major themes we are seeing are texture, texture and more texture; lots of curves, in furniture as well as architecture; and nature-inspired decor. You will see mural-type wallpapers that fill a room with warmth and personality. Texture extends to everything — leathered granite countertops, sculpted Berber carpets, and chunky, bold trim on drapes and woodwork.

The theme of incorporating nature into interior elements will continue to be prevalent in finishes and

fittings. We will be seeing colors inspired by nature, like softer greens and blues that are calming and pleasing to the eye. These color trends also mean the end of the all-white kitchen, as the pros anticipate painted or wood cabinets in warm, neutral hues.

Look for more natural items in interior decor — baskets or plants or natural wood. Curvy furniture, barrel or vaulted ceilings and curved walkways are a nod to nature, where curves rule.

Golden tones and art deco themes will be a part of the more natural, cozier trend, as well.

Furniture and its design and placement will be more focused on comfort and conversation. We all crave more personal interaction, and furniture designers are catering to that. The words we are seeing in print about design for the coming year include relaxing, plump, character, dimension and rounded.

So, prepare for a comfortable year, with lots of curves and beautiful colors. Bring in nature, and sink back in a big sofa for some great conversations.

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors & More, one of Atlanta’s toprated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

Enhance Floors & More is one of the most experienced flooring companies in North Georgia. Founded 37 years ago in Marietta, the flooring showroom is locally owned and staffed by a skilled team with a combined 150-plus years of experience.

Clients rave about how Enhance Floors is a “one-stop shop and made what could have been an overwhelming experience easy and fun.” Pop in to browse the large selection of flooring options and see for yourself what all the hype is about.

Made With Butter & Love

ookies are probably the one treat most closely associated with Christmas. Bakers have been making them at Christmastime for hundreds of years. Mothers pass down treasured snickerdoodle or oatmeal raisin recipes to their daughters. Families gather to share their annual tradition of baking cookies together. And a big platter of homemade confections makes a most welcome gift for those who have a sweet tooth. The employees at Aroundabout Local Media would love to be able to send a fresh plate of cookies to our readers this holiday season, but since that’s not possible, we’re sharing the next best thing — some of our favorite Christmas recipes — as our gift to you. So break out the butter, flour, chocolate chips and nuts, and get baking!

Carrot Cake Cookies

JESSICA FORRESTER, CONTENT EDITOR

INGREDIENTS

1 box carrot cake mix 2 eggs ½ cup vegetable oil 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix ingredients until well combined. Use a medium cookie scoop to drop dough balls onto a baking sheet, lined with parchment paper, 2 inches apart. (If you would rather roll cookie dough balls by hand, refrigerate the dough for 10-20 minutes. Doing so will help it stay firm, and less dough will stick to your palms.) Bake for 9 minutes or until lightly golden. Tip: You can make sandwich cookies by spreading 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese or buttercream frosting between two cookies.

Snickerdoodles

MICHELLE MCCULLOCH, PRODUCTION MANAGER

INGREDIENTS

Mocha Walnut Christmas Cookies

CANDI HANNIGAN, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

INGREDIENTS

1 12-ounce package chocolate morsels, divided

2 tablespoons instant coffee

2 teaspoons boiling water

1¼ cup all-purpose flour

¾ teaspoon baking soda

DIRECTIONS

½ teaspoon salt ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup sugar ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 egg ½ cup chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt ½ cup chocolate morsels over hot (not boiling) water. Stir until smooth and cool to room temperature. In a small cup, dissolve coffee in water; set aside. In a small bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar and coffee; beat until creamy. Add egg and melted morsels, and mix well. Gradually add flour mixture. Stir in remaining 1½ cups morsels and walnuts. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Dust with confectioners sugar for a festive look!

Cookies: 1½ cups sugar ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup shortening 2 eggs 2¾ cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons cream of tartar 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt

Cinnamon topping: ¼ cup sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

DIRECTIONS

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Combine sugar, butter, shortening and eggs in a large bowl, and stir in remaining dry ingredients. Shape dough into 1-inch balls, and, on a large plate, roll balls in cinnamon mixture. Place on ungreased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove from baking sheet promptly, and cool on wire rack.

Espresso Delights

MICHELLE SMITH, MARKET AND ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

INGREDIENTS

1 cup butter, softened

⅔ cup sifted powdered sugar

1 tablespoon instant espresso (dry)

1 teaspoon vanilla

½ teaspoon cinnamon

2 cups flour

1 ounce semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

Additional powdered sugar and cocoa for topping

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat butter on high for 30 seconds. Add sugar, coffee crystals, vanilla and cinnamon; beat until combined. Slowly beat in flour and chocolate. Shape into 1-inch balls. Place on ungreased cookie sheet and flatten slightly. Bake about 12 minutes until set. After cooling, combine additional powdered sugar and cocoa to a light brown and sift over cookies.

Wheaties Oatmeal Cookies LAURA LATCHFORD, PAGE DESIGNER

INGREDIENTS

1 cup shortening

1 cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

2 eggs, well beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

Chocolate Oatmeal

No-Bake Cookies

DONNA HARRIS, MANAGING EDITOR

INGREDIENTS

½ cup butter

2 cups sugar

½ cup milk

4 tablespoons cocoa powder

½ cup smooth peanut butter

3½ cups quick-cooking oats

2 teaspoons vanilla

DIRECTIONS

Combine butter, sugar, milk and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a rolling boil, then boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, and immediately stir in peanut butter, oats and vanilla. Blend well. Drop onto wax paper, and let cool until set. Store in airtight container at room temperature.

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

2 cups Wheaties cereal

2 cups oatmeal

1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream together shortening, sugar and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt, then add to the cream mixture. Add remaining ingredients. Shape dough into 1½inch balls, and place 1-2 inches apart on a prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown on edges and nearly set, about 12 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Makes 4 dozen.

INGREDIENTS

Shortbread layer: ⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened ½ cup sugar

2 eggs, yolks only 1 teaspoon vanilla 1½ cups all-purpose flour

Caramel Filling: 14 soft caramel candies, like Kraft Caramels 3 tablespoon heavy cream

Chocolate Drizzle: 6 ounces milk chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine butter, sugar, egg yolks and vanilla. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy. Add flour; beat at low speed until well mixed. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour or until firm. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Make indentation in the center of each cookie with your thumb or end of a wooden spoon handle. Bake 7-10 minutes or until edges begin to brown. Cool completely. Melt the caramels and heavy cream in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted. Using a teaspoon, fill each indentation with caramel. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, stirring 30 seconds at a time until smooth, and scoop into a zip-top bag. Barely snip the corner, and drizzle chocolate over the cookies.

Gifts from theKitchen

BY TIFFANY HUGHES

Early December is the perfect time to start thinking about what you can give others this holiday season. One way to make a great impression on the recipient is to give them something from your kitchen. And certain treats that are made only this time of year are even more special.

Some goodies, such as taffy and peanut brittle, can be created only in cool weather. In Georgia, that can be a little more sporadic than in other states. Heat and humidity are the kryptonite of homemade candy because it will melt.

Speaking of homemade candy, if you keep bags of candy melts or blocks of almond bark on hand, you’ll be prepared when the weather cooperates. For an easy treat, melt milk chocolate or white chocolate in a microwavesafe glass bowl, and pour onto wax paper. Sprinkle crushed candy canes, nuts or dried fruit on top, and let harden. Another idea is to dip cookies into chocolate. You can get fancy by dipping round chocolate sandwich cookies in melted white chocolate, laying them on a wire rack to drain and sprinkling with your favorite cookie decorations.

A tin of decorated Christmas cookies makes a great gift and is fun to make. One time-saving tip is to make your dough ahead of time and freeze it. Once the dough is finished, place it in a gallon-size zip-top bag, and press it all to the bottom. Then roll the bag up, seal it and freeze it until needed. When you are ready to cut a roll into cookies, put it in the fridge to thaw, as you want to make sure the dough is still cold enough to hold its shape. As you go through the cutting and baking process, always keep the extra dough refrigerated because roomtemperature dough does not cooperate. If you’re going to decorate with frosting, be certain your cookies have cooled completely. It’s best if you can bake them the day before.

Gifts from the kitchen don’t necessarily have to be desserts. You could make jams, jellies, spice combinations, even homemade vanilla extract (but that one requires three months. Slice six fresh vanilla beans lengthwise, drop into one liter of vodka and cover. Let sit for at least three months, shaking every week. When the vodka

changes color, the extract is done. Strain out the vanilla bean pieces, and store in a separate container). For instance, you could mix up a batch of your famous rib rub, steak seasoning or house seasoning, put it in a glass jar with a label and give it to someone with a couple of recipes, an apron and a wooden spoon or tongs. Or you could give someone a Mississippi pork kit — a jar of spice blends, another jar of pepperoncini peppers, a recipe for preparing and an oven mitt or pair of tongs. All they’ll need to do is add their choice of meat.

Another idea is to bake some type of bread. Homemade bread always smells so good and is such a treat. If you’re making a savory bread or biscuits to give as a gift, put them in a basket lined with a pretty towel, then add a cute spreader and some flavored butter and jam. Flavors can be sweet or savory, but always start with softened butter. For one stick of butter, add 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Honey also can be added to butter. Another idea is to mix in crushed fresh parsley, basil or rosemary. Keep in mind the strength of the herbs will increase over time. Butter can be stored in a small jar with a lid in the refrigerator until gift-giving time. Sweet breads also are great to give, especially if you have mini loaf pans. One batch of chocolate banana bread (see recipe) will make four mini loaves. Don’t have a mini loaf pan? Try baking the recipe in muffin tins instead, just reduce the cooking time.

No matter what you create in your kitchen to give as gifts, your friends and family will appreciate your thoughtfulness and creativity. Happy holidays, everyone!

Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and works for the Booth Western Art Museum. Contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.

Mim’s Light and Fluffy Peanut Brittle

Ingredients

• 4 cups raw peanuts, shelled with husks on

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 16 ounces Karo dark corn syrup (no substitutions!)

• 2 tablespoons baking soda

Directions

Place ingredients in a large Dutch oven in the following order: peanuts, sugar and syrup. Turn heat to medium-high, place a candy thermometer in the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until mixture reaches the hard crack (300 degrees) stage. Immediately remove from heat, and quickly stir in baking soda. Stop stirring when baking soda is dissolved. Pour mixture onto two baking sheets and let cool. Once brittle is completely cool, break into pieces and store in an airtight container.

Berry Jam

Ingredients

• 32 ounces fresh or frozen berries

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• Juice and zest from 1 lime

Directions

Place berries in a stockpot, and cover with water. Cook on medium-high until fruit begins to break down, stirring frequently. Whisk in sugar, lime juice and zest, and cook until sugar dissolves and water is reduced. Add additional water, and cook until fruit has completely broken down. Remove from heat, and transfer to a glass jar. When the jar is cool, store in the refrigerator.

Directions

Chocolate Banana Bread

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ stick butter, softened

• 2 large ripe bananas, mashed

• 2 eggs

• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt

• OPTIONAL: ½ cup peanut butter chips, chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Place sugars and butter in a large bowl, and beat with a hand mixer on medium until well blended (about one minute). Add bananas, eggs and yogurt, and beat on low just until moist. Stir in chips and/or nuts by hand. Place in two medium loaf pans coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 for one hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes on a wire rack, then remove from pan. Wrap and store in refrigerator.

Easy Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 sticks butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon butter extract or almond extract

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon water

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Mississippi Pork

Ingredients

• 2-4 pounds pork loin

• 1½ tablespoons dry ranch

• 1 tablespoon onion powder or onion granules

Directions

Directions

In a large bowl, thoroughly cream butter, sugar and extracts. Add egg and water, and beat until light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Blend into the cream mixture. Divide dough in half, place in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and chill for one hour. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to desired thickness, and cut with cookie cutters. Bake at 375 degrees for 7-9 minutes, or just until edges turn golden. Remove from oven, and cool on a wire rack. Decorate with buttercream or royal icing.

• 2 tablespoons dry chicken bouillon

• 6-8 pepperoncini peppers, plus juice

• 1 stick butter

• Salt to taste

Place pork in a slow cooker, and sprinkle generously with the dry spices. Arrange peppers around meat, drizzle with some of the juice from the pepper jar and place a stick of butter directly on top. Cover and cook on high for four hours or on low for six hours. When meat is finished, shred and return to the cooker for an additional 30 minutes. Check seasonings, and salt to taste. This also works great on beef roast and chicken.

NOTE: Try roasting some of the cooked meat at 400 degrees until golden brown. Serve in a taco with slaw or grilled pineapple.

Mayor Holds Fall Town Hall

Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood recently hosted the city’s fall town hall meeting at the Acworth Community Center. Under the theme of “Acworth Is Home,” he introduced department leaders who updated attendees on what 2023 and beyond holds for the city and its residents. City leaders plan to improve services, increase recreation trails and encourage positive economic growth.

Perkins Named Citizen of the Year

The Cobb Chamber’s Northwest Cobb Area Council named Lori Perkins the 2022 Acworth Citizen of the Year at a recent awards luncheon. Perkins, a retired teacher who works as a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker Realty, was recognized for her outstanding work with the Acworth Community Garden.

Perkins, who has lived in Cobb for more than 20 years, brought the idea of a community garden to Acworth city staff in 2019, with the intent of engaging community participation and providing a local senior community with the harvested produce. The garden was created this year, and Perkins and volunteers work in it at least three days a week. So far, more than 1,000 pounds of produce has been harvested for local seniors.

Former Commission Chairman Honored

City Employee Wins Programmer Award

The Cobb County Public Library dedicated the Mike Boyce Military Collection and the Mike and Judy Boyce Study Room during a ceremony at the North Cobb Regional Library in Kennesaw last month. Boyce, who served as the Cobb County commission chairman from 2017 to 2020, died in January. The collection at the library features some of the retired Marine Corps colonel’s cherished books on military history.

Lori Perkins is a retired teacher.

Jordon Gonzalez, center, shows off her Outstanding Programmer of the Year award.

Jordon Gonzalez, youth programming coordinator for the Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department, was named the Georgia Recreation and Park Association’s District 5 Outstanding Programmer of the Year recently.

Mayor Tommy Allegood addresses the crowd at the town hall meeting.

In the Spotlight

• THE BUSINESS.

American Eagle is a local mortgage company with a staff that seeks a deep connection with customers to discover how to meet their needs in a personal way. American Eagle can handle small mortgage needs to financing dream homes, renovations and refinancing.

• WHAT’S UNIQUE.

Bob Brooks has been in the Acworth community for 50 years and has seen firsthand how the community has grown. “I serve my clients how my grandparents and parents did – with a personal connection,” he said. “Whether it is sitting at your kitchen table discussing options or in my office, which is located in front of North Cobb High School.”

• CUSTOMERS SAY.

“Mr. Brooks was my mortgage broker on my home purchase two years ago. He was the fastest, easiest and friendliest broker we’ve ever dealt with. He walked us through every step and answered every question (even the mundane ones) without hesitation. If you’re looking to buy a home, I would recommend Mr. Brooks. We could not be happier.”

– Leslie Szabo

Bob Brooks | Loan Advisor

Good Things, Small Packages

Just in time for holidays, the Art House in Acworth is featuring its “Small Works Exhibit” to give those shopping for the art lovers on their Christmas list a chance to buy affordable works of art as gifts.

“With this exhibit, we strive to offer smaller, more reasonably priced, original pieces of artwork to the community for their holiday shopping,” Cathy Green, executive director of the Acworth Arts Alliance, said. “This is a very small sampling of what we currently have available at the Art House. As always, a broad variety of styles, subjects and mediums are available.”

These and other pieces in the exhibit will be for sale until Dec. 23, “unless they're purchased before that,” Green said. The Art House at 4425 Cherokee St. is open noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. www.acworthartsalliance.org

Photos courtesy of Cathy Green.

"Angel Song" by Kathleen Borchelt

Jewelry by Ginny Mintz

"Peacock Box" by Julie Mazzoni

"Nuthatch" by Linda Riddle

"Old School Flavor" by Kaj Johnson

"Filoli Flowers" by Claudia Downey

"Winter Birds" by Helen Hamerton

"Christmas in Sight" by Chrissy Wysocki

Senior Activities

CITY OF ACWORTH

Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department // 770-917-1234

www.acworthparksandrecreation.org

Dec. 21

City of Acworth’s Senior Luncheon

Every third Wednesday. Lunch is served at noon at the Acworth Community Center. This program is free to all seniors, but you must RSVP the week prior to the luncheon in order to attend, 770-917-1234.

Mondays, Wednesdays

Senior Warriors Gentle Movements. 10-10:30 a.m. Seniors 55 and older learn traditional Korean movements to increase balance, mental focus and ability to move. Class is taught by Omar Welch, an instructor certified by the U.S. Taekwondo Federation.

Tuesdays

Live Chair and Gentle Yoga. 10-10:45 a.m., Jan. 10-Feb. 7, Acworth Community Center. Learn stretching and strengthening exercises and breathing techniques. Free for Acworth residents, $15 for nonresidents.

Thursdays

Live Cardio. 10-10:45 a.m., Jan. 12Feb. 9, Acworth Community Center. Strengthen and tighten muscles using free weights. Free for city of Acworth residents age 55 and over, $15 for nonresidents.

Dec. 7

COBB

4100 S. Main St., Acworth // 770-975-7740 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services

Wrapping Up the Holidays. 10:30 a.m.-noon. To help with gift preparations, bring up to 10 gifts to the center to be wrapped, bowed and adorned with name tags.

Dec. 8

Armchair Travel: Home for the Holidays. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Take a trip down memory lane for a discussion on holiday traditions, food, movies and fun times with family and friends.

Dec. 9

Jingle Bell Bash: “Polar Express.” 10:30 a.m.-noon. Don’t forget your favorite holiday pajamas! $8.

Dec. 12

Taking Charge of Your Personal Safety. 1-2 p.m. Discuss crime prevention trends in Cobb County and ways to improve personal-safety skills.

Dec. 13

Hospice Myths vs. Facts. 10:3011:30 a.m. Learn the truth about hospice and help dispel the stigma that surrounds this important service.

Culinary Creations: Holiday Cookies. 1-2 p.m. Learn about holiday cookies from around the world, play a matching game and find out how to make Polish kolaczki cookies. $3.

Dec. 14

Let’s Do Lunch: Copeland’s. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Meet at Copeland’s, 1142 Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw. Lunch on your own. Registration required.

Dec. 15

Dementia Friends. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn about dementia, get tips for oneto-one interactions and be prepared to support someone living with dementia.

Healthy 12 Days of Nutrition. 1-2 p.m. Learn tips to stay healthy during the holiday season and into 2023.

Dec. 16

Film on Friday: “Top Gun: Maverick.” Noon-2 p.m.

Dec. 20

Trip to Strand Theater: “It’s a Wonderful Life.” 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Visit the Strand Theater to view the classic “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Cost is $10. Pay for tickets at the door.

Dec. 22

Game Show: “Name That Tune” Holiday Edition. 1-2 p.m.

Dec. 28

Food for Thought: It’s Mint to Be. Noon-1 p.m. Mint is one of the easiest plants to grow. Bring a lunch and enjoy a flavorful discussion on all things mint.

The

t

Turning on the Charm

People who love historic homes turned out for the annual Acworth Charm Home Tour downtown last month. Attendees were able to visit six recently renovated homes: McEverMorgan House, Bailey-MaxwellBenefield House, Coats & ClarkLucas House, Reed Sr.-Perdue-Gray House, Blakely House and Lyons House. Sponsored by the Acworth Cultural Arts and Brookwood Christian School, the tour raised money for dyslexia reading programs and performing arts scholarships at the school.

Photos courtesy of Beth Fornuto Photography.

The Lyons House, owned by Patrice and Jeff Lyons, was built circa 1890.

interior of the Bailey-Maxwell-Benefield House, a bungalow built circa 1912.

Owned by Phillip and Lisa Lucas, the Coats & Clark-Lucas House was built on Dixie Avenue circa 1920.

McEver-Morgan House owners Justin and Brooke Morgan were featured on “House Hunters” in 2020 when they bought the home, a folk Victorian-style house built circa 1893.

The original fireplace is a focal point in the Lyons House.

Rob’s Rescues

I interviewed Tori Reibel, education and communications coordinator of Appalachian Bear Rescue (ABR), an organization dedicated to caring for orphaned and injured black bear cubs. www.appalachianbearrescue.org. This interview is the last of two parts. If you missed Part 1 last month, visit https://townelaker.com.

What field would someone study to work at ABR?

You could study various things — ecology, biology, environmental studies, wildlife and related fields. I studied natural resource management.

How long do bears stay at ABR before being released?

What should someone do if they are attacked by a bear?

This dog’s name is Pippa. She is a stray who has been in the shelter for almost two months. Pippa is still very nervous at the shelter, and doesn’t like the noise. She is a medium-sized black and white dog, who is very gentle and very much wants to be a part of someone’s family.

It depends on their condition. For a bear that has to overwinter with us, five to eight months is average. Cubs that arrive very early in the year, when healthy, usually are released in November or early December. When they leave ABR, they are fat and healthy. Upon release, they go and find a den.

What is your busiest time?

We are busy all year, after the twomonth offseason from December to February, when bears den up. Our busiest time is early spring, March and April, when bears are coming out of their dens. But, we get calls all the time.

How do you release the bears back into the wild?

We are all hands-off at our facility, and our enclosures are outdoors. All fencing is black, so they don’t see us, and we don’t see them. We throw food over the fencing, so they have to forage for it. When it’s time for release, we do a passive release into a smaller enclosure. A wildlife agency comes on release day and sedates the bear. We put a collar and ear tag on them, and they are released back into the area where they came from.

If it is a brown bear, fight back, because they will run away 99.9% of the time. If a brown bear attacks, it is likely something has happened to make it predatory, which is against its nature.

What is a story you love to tell?

Last year, we got cubs on Valentine’s Day. They were about 3 weeks old. There had been a gas leak at a cabin in the woods. The technician who had gone out disturbed a mother bear in the crawl space. She ran, and left three tiny cubs. We took the cubs, as we were not sure if the mother would come back. One day later, the mother bear did come back, and we were able to get the cubs back to the mom. The homeowner let the bears stay in the crawl space under the house, and installed cameras so we could watch them.

What can people do to help bears and ABR?

You can help bears by stowing trash, so they cannot get into it. That is the No. 1 thing that helps bears. Clean grills and put bird feeders away when bears are active in the area. Follow Bear Wise (www.facebook.com/BearWise. org) for helpful tips. ABR is a nonprofit. Follow ABR: @AppalachianBearRescue. We have a very active social media presence and share a lot of updates and content.

How can people connect with ABR?

This cat’s name is Pickle. He is 4 years old. I don’t know why someone would let this cat go, because he is a great cat. He is very large and soft, like a pillow you could snuggle with.

What should someone do if they see a bear?

Initially, talk to it. Let the bear know you are there. Then, slowly back away. Never ever run. Clap and wave your arms. Remain calm. If it is a brown bear, it will get out of there, almost all of the time. They are shy.

You can call or email us (https://appalachianbearrescue.org/contact-us), or get in touch through Facebook.

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

These animals are at Cobb County Animal Services, waiting for homes.

A bear at Appalachian Bear Rescue.

Charitable

Now that it’s the holiday season, gifts probably are on your mind — including gifts to charities. Although your intentions are good, you could be shortchanging your recipients and yourself by your method of giving. With some guidance, you can make choices that work well for you and those charitable groups you support.

You could simply give money to these groups. However, by donating other types of assets, can you increase your gift’s value and gain greater tax benefits, too?

It’s certainly possible, but your ability to gain tax advantages depends somewhat on whether you can itemize deductions on your tax return. Due to legislation passed a few years ago that significantly increased the standard deduction, many people aren’t itemizing anymore. But if you still itemize, you generally can deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income for cash donations to IRSqualified charities.

One possibility is donating investments, such as stocks, that you’ve held for a long time and that have increased in value. If you itemize, you can deduct the full market value of the asset, up to 30% of your adjusted gross income, and you won’t incur the capital gains taxes you would have if you eventually sold the stocks.

These charitable-donation methods are not secrets, and you don’t have to be wealthy to employ them. Yet, here’s an interesting statistic: Those working with a financial adviser on charitable strategies are more than three times as likely to donate noncash assets, such as stocks, than those who contribute to charities but don’t work with an adviser, according to an August survey from financial services firm Edward Jones and Morning Consult, a global data intelligence company. These findings suggest more people could be taking advantage of tax-smart charitable-giving moves, if only they had some guidance.

Also, with some professional assistance, you might find it easier to implement your charitable-giving decisions within your overall financial strategy.

Your instinct to support charitable groups is commendable, and by getting some help, you can turn this impulse into actions that might benefit everyone.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling, your Edward Jones financial advisers in Acworth. Member SIPC.

SUBMITTED BY ROBERTO DE JESUS AND AMANDA YINGLING

Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling are financial advisers for the Edward Jones branch on Cedarcrest Road in Acworth.

What Is Organic Gardening?

BY AMY WHITNEY

In my not-vast-but-not-tiny experience of talking with other gardeners, I’ve found the word “organic,” as applied to gardening, is not well understood. There’s a good reason — the definition isn’t easy or brief. But I am offering a simplified explanation.

When we refer to organic gardening or farming, we mean growing food using a specific set of principles and inputs (fertilizers, for example) that are as close to the natural state as possible in a way that maintains a living soil with a diverse population of microorganisms and macroorganisms. Spraying anything for pests and diseases is the last option for resolving garden problems, even if an organic-approved spray is available.

There’s some significant overlap between organic and conventional gardening. Plants need nutrients, soil support, water, sunlight, air in the root zone and good air circulation around the leaves and stems; those are the basics that good gardeners, using both systems, provide.

There are huge differences, too. In conventional gardening, soil is viewed as a substrate with important physical and chemical properties that affect how nutrients and water move through the soil. Fertilizers tend to consist of salts of various essential nutrients, which are available for uptake by plants as soon as they are dissolved in water. Many chemical options are available for diseases and pest control, and correct use of inputs depends on some simple math and basic guidelines.

In organic gardening, soil is viewed as home to an abundant and diverse community of tiny life forms. The physical and chemical properties are important, but more important is that nutrients are made available when

released through the action of those microbes, fungi and other small life forms. This action is, essentially, the decomposition of organic matter and other soil amendments. Maintaining the health, abundance and diversity of this community underground is essential to having a productive organic garden. There are very few spray-on options for pest and disease control, and those usually don’t work well. Choosing manures, composts and rock powders to maintain the liveliness of the soil takes careful planning. Considering these differences and the absence of simple prescriptions for what to do next, the big question is “Why would any sane person choose organic gardening?” Well, I can think of plenty of reasons:

• Living near an ecologically sensitive area and wanting to protect it.

• Wanting to provide as little support as possible for “big agriculture.”

• Being a huge do-it-yourselfer.

• Wanting to keep hazardous chemicals away from small children or pets.

• Having a serious sensitivity to a variety of chemicals.

• Being concerned about losing bees and other pollinators.

• Having a tendency to eat unwashed food while in the garden.

• Wanting to eat organically grown food on a tight food budget.

• Being concerned about newer commercial-crop pesticides that can’t be washed off.

It’s difficult to go partially organic. Using composts and manures can help in conventional gardening by improving water retention/drainage and nutrient flow/abundance, but using conventional fertilizers in an organic system is more likely to have negative effects. Some microorganisms and macroorganisms are very sensitive to fertilizer salts and don’t do well with conventional fertilizers. As a result, your crops won’t do as well.

Going organic also means most pest/disease control is done through prevention, involving crop rotations, disease-resistant plants, avoidance strategies, cover crops, promotion of beneficial insects and other strategies.

This sounds supremely complicated, but plenty of gardeners are managing organic food production quite well. We are fortunate to have many resources to help us.

The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County supports the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and strives to improve the quality of life in our community by delivering research-based horticultural information, educational programs and projects.

Volunteers show off the vegetables they harvested from the Plant a Row for the Hungry garden.

Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension.

Parading ThroughAutumn

The five winners of the 2022 Acworth Scarecrow Parade were announced recently and were presented with awards. Scarecrows entered in the annual event, sponsored by the Acworth Downtown Development Authority, line historic Main Street every October. Photos courtesy of the city of Acworth.

WINNERS

• Best School: Barber Middle School

• Most Creative: Scoops Acworth

• Best Overall: American Engineers Inc.

• Most Traditional: Henry's Louisiana Grill and Henry's Uptown

• Mayor's Choice: Two LiRu Antiques & Estate Sales

Lisa Mack of Two LiRu Antiques & Estate Sales won the Mayor’s Choice trophy.

Sarah Schindler of American Engineers Inc. receives the award for best overall scarecrow.

Barber Middle School

Scoops Acworth

Henry's Louisiana Grill and Henry's Uptown

Can Employers Be Sued for Employees’ Actions?

BY JOEL WILLIAMS

An employer is charged with hiring responsible and safe employees. If a personal injury occurs because of an employee, is the employer liable? Can an employer be sued for the actions of an employee?

In most situations, the answer is yes. Georgia law says that if an employee is on the job and/or working for his or her employer at the time he or she negligently hurts someone else, the employer is responsible for the employee’s negligence. The legal doctrine of respondeat superior “holds an employer or principal legally responsible for the wrongful acts of an employee or agent, if such acts occur within the scope of the employment or agency.”

The most common example is when an employee is driving somewhere for the job, and he or she causes a wreck that hurts somebody else. In this case, the employer will be liable for any property damage and personal injuries caused by the negligent employee. Another example is when an employee mops or waxes the floor, fails to put out a caution sign, and then a customer slips and falls. The employer or business owner will be responsible for the employee’s conduct in creating a hazard and not informing others about it.

Employers also can be sued for an employee’s bad acts when the employer fails to exercise reasonable diligence in hiring and keeping employees. Consider this example: A hotel hires a new

employee for maintenance; however, the new hire has a criminal history involving violence. If he loses his temper and attacks a guest, the hotel could be liable under a negligent hiring theory. In cases involving these claims, courts usually look at whether the employee has done anything in the past that should’ve given the employer notice of the employee’s bad behavior. If the injured party can show a pattern of prior bad conduct, his or her claim against the employer for negligent hiring and/or retention will be even stronger.

When an employer is brought into a personal injury claim, it most likely will be covered by a commercial insurance policy that provides more coverage than an average personal policy. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case because some businesses fail to obtain liability insurance. Employers always should purchase adequate commercial liability insurance to protect themselves from situations where they might be on the hook for their employee’s negligence.

Now’s the Time for Boating Education

BY GREG FONZENO

Over the past several months, we’ve looked at various boating-safety topics. With the seasons changing and boats being winterized or put into storage, now is the time to consider taking a boating-safety class.

We don’t have to look far to discover why safe-boating classes are needed. During fiscal year 2022, Lake Allatoona saw an increase in drownings not seen since 2016. As of August, there were nine drownings at Lake Allatoona and double that number at Lake Lanier. These are deaths that could have been prevented with some safe boating practices. These are lives that could have been saved by wearing a life jacket. These are families and friends who left home for a day on the water that turned tragic. This explosive increase in accidents brings with it the clear need for increased boater education. To fill that need, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has scheduled safe-boating classes for 2023. Class topics are: Know Your Boat, Before Getting Underway, Navigating the Waterways, Operating Your Vessel Safely, Legal Requirements and 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 National Association of State Boating Law Administrators-approved boating-safety class to legally operate a boat or personal watercraft in Georgia.

The auxiliary offers two modes of learning: the conventional face-to-face class and a virtual class using the Zoom platform. Both classes feature live presentations by Coast Guard-certified instructors. But unlike the one-day conventional class, the virtual class divides the chapters into three sessions. Regardless of the mode, auxiliarists present the material, answer your questions and demonstrate boating safety.

Conventional classes for 2023 will be Feb. 4, March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3, July 1, Aug. 5 and Sept. 9 at Roberts School Community and Education Center, 4681 School St., Acworth. Virtual courses will be offered April 27, 29 and 30; May 25, 27 and 28; and July 20, 22 and 23 through a Zoom link.

The fee for materials is $30, and family discounts are available. Consider giving someone a gift certificate for a class. To register or inquire about a gift certificate, email me at flotilla22pe@gmailcom. Online registration forms can be found at https://bit.ly/3sXBJi8 under Boating Course Info. Let’s all keep our families and friends safe.

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

Joel Williams is a partner at Williams|Elleby, a Kennesawbased personal injury law firm. www.gatrialattorney.com.

Around & About

DECEMBER

10

The Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department will present Breakfast With the Grinch , 9-9:45 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center, 4361 Cherokee St. Enjoy breakfast while the Grinch visits each table for photo opportunities. After breakfast, kids will create Grinch-themed ornaments and crafts. Space is limited, and each family member attending must register. https://bit.ly/3zb7TKD. Volunteers also are needed to help serve breakfast to attendees. If interested, contact Jordon Gonzalez at jgonzalez@ acworth.org.

Santa will return to the depot in historic downtown Acworth for Christmas in Acworth , with photos from 1 to 5 p.m. Photos are free, but bring your own camera, as there will not be a photographer on-site.

12

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Acworth Community Center. Schedule an appointment at www.redcrossblood.org.

14

The second annual Acworth Christmas Golf Cart Parade will begin at 6 p.m. and proceed through downtown and nearby neighborhoods. Bust out the garland, solar-powered lights and tinsel to make your golf cart as festive as possible. Participation is free, but registration is required. https://bit.ly/3zb7TKD

17 Join the Wreaths Across America Ceremony and lay wreaths at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton. Families with loved ones at GNC will place wreaths, 9-11 a.m. A public memorial ceremony will follow, and volunteers will place the remaining wreaths, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. ganationalcemetery.org.

20

The city of Acworth, in partnership with Chabad of Kennesaw, will hold its annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. at Logan Farm Park, with a reception afterward at the Acworth Community Center. The eight-day Hanukkah celebration commemorates the Jewish Maccabees’ military victory over Syrian-Greek oppression more than 2,000 years ago.

23

Congregation Ner Tamid will have its annual Menorah Lighting on the Marietta Square at 6:30 p.m. Join Rabbi Joseph Prass for the lighting celebration, featuring Hanukkah music, free hot chocolate, doughnuts, door prizes and lots of chocolate gelt.

Santa will visit downtown Acworth for photos with the kids.

ART HOUSE HAPPENINGS

www.acworthartsalliance.org.

Through Dec. 23

Art lovers can view “Small Works & Gifts” exhibit noon-6 p.m. TuesdaysSaturdays. All works in the display are for sale. Admission is free and open to the public.

Dec. 15

Deadline for submissions for the “Member Artist Exhibit.” All submissions must be from member artists of the Acworth Arts Alliance only. The exhibit will run Jan. 6-Feb. 24, with artist receptions Jan. 7 and Feb. 4, 4-7 p.m.

Ongoing

Register for winter classes and workshops offered by the Acworth Arts Alliance. Classes and workshops for kids and adults take place at the Art House in downtown Acworth. acworthartsalliance.org/classes

ACWORTH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

www.acworthartsalliance.org.

Dec. 13

Morning Jolt, 8-9 a.m., The Cowan Historic Mill, 4271 Southside Drive.

Dec. 15

Women’s Holiday Party, 7-9 p.m., The Cowan Historic Mill, 4271 Southside Drive.

Jan. 5

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

4361 Cherokee St., Acworth // 770-917-1234 acworthparksandrecreation.org.

Acworth Adult Winter Basketball League

About PARKS AND RECREATION

Competitive and recreational divisions run simultaneously every week, with a single-elimination tournament to finish the season. Sundays, Feb. 5-March 23 (no games Feb. 12), noon-7 p.m. Tournament semifinals March 22 and tournament finals March 23. Free Agent Day for those who are not part of a team will be 6:30-8 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Acworth Community Center.

Community Classes

Tuesdays

Line dancing. Learn to line dance with knowledge, technique and style while staying fit. Intermediate classes, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., beginner classes, 1-2:30 p.m., and evening classes, 6:30-8 p.m., meet in monthly sessions.

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Zumba. This fitness program features exotic rhythms, such as salsa, merengue, cumbia, samba and more. All fitness and skill levels are welcome. Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly and drop-in rates available.

Wednesdays

Bend & Breathe Meditation Yin Yoga. This yoga class targets the deep connective tissues, such as fascia, ligaments, joints and bones. It’s slower and more meditative. 8:15-9 a.m. Monthly and drop-in rates are available. Build Yoga. Join a very dynamic class, using yoga postures, plyometrics, hand weights and calisthenics to build strength, flexibility, balance and endurance, 9:05-9:50 a.m. Monthly and drop-in rates available.

Wednesdays

and Thursdays

Pickleball lessons. Times are available Wednesday and Thursday mornings at the Acworth Community Center. All experience levels are welcome.

Saturdays

BSD Taekwondo. This is a traditional taekwondo class for adults, 8:459:45 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Students will learn balance, focus, self-control and how to grow their confidence. Traditional skills are designed to promote health, lower stress levels and develop the whole body, without the use of weapons.

Youth Programs

Tuesdays and Thursdays

BSD Taekwondo. This class is designed to teach ages 6 and older balance, hand-eye coordination and self-control using traditional taekwondo exercises, 3-4 p.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly sessions are available.

Saturdays Special Warriors Taekwondo. In this class, young community members with special needs will learn focus, balance, hand-eye coordination and effective self-defense. Classes meet monthly, 10-10:30 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center.

Little Dragons Taekwondo. Children ages 4-7 can learn balance, hand-eye coordination and self-control, 10:45-11:15 a.m., at the Acworth Community Center. Monthly sessions are available. Parents are welcome to take the class with their children, but it is not required.

Put Equity to Work to Combat Inflation

BY JAY WHITE

We know the buzz has been all about inflation lately. While prices for things we purchase every day are increasing, one of the positives from the recent housing market increase is equity. Our homes are worth more now than they ever have been.

Americans have in excess of $841 billion in credit card debt nationally, according to Bankcard, with $2.6 billion of that outstanding credit card debt coming from Atlanta. Revolving credit cards typically carry very high interest rates, and the interest compounds daily. The debts are very difficult to pay off, as the monthly payments are eaten up by the interest.

What I have been seeing lately is many homeowners are accessing the equity in their homes and using it to pay off their high-interest nonmortgage debts, as well as to increase their monthly household cash flow. By doing so, they effectively are giving themselves a post-tax raise.

The key to successfully using your equity to consolidate debt is to pay off the debts in full and close out the debts or credit card accounts. Do not leave yourself access to these debts. In some cases, keeping one credit card account open for emergencies, car rentals, etc., might make sense; however, that needs to be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

As the cost of goods and services continues to rise, you can change your financial picture by putting the equity you have gained over the past few years to work for you.

@ the Library

NORTH COBB REGIONAL LIBRARY

3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw • 770-801-5320

10 a.m.-8 p.m.Mondays-Wednesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Thursdays-Fridays • 10 a.m.-5 p.m.Saturdays

Through Dec. 15

The Georgia Commission on the Holocaust’s exhibition “Fashioning a Nation: German Identity and Industry, 1914-1945,” will be on display daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. The exhibit explores the powerful history of German fashion from its international impact to its destruction by the Nazi regime.

Dec. 8

Classic Movie Matinee for adults is planned for the second Thursday of each month, 1-3 p.m. The December movie is “White Christmas.” No RSVP required. Ages 5 and older are invited to make Holiday Crafts , 4:30-5:30 p.m. Kids will make festive holiday cards. Reservations are not required.

Dec. 12

Family Movie Night , 6-7:30 p.m., will feature “The Grinch” (PG).

Cobb County Public Library System www.cobbcat.org

Dec. 12

Sherlock Holmes Story Discussions with the North Cobb Irregulars take place the second Monday of each month, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Discussions are led by Helen Cauley, president emerita of the Atlanta Sherlock Holmes Society. The text for December is “The Blue Carbuncle.” No RSVP required.

Dec. 13

Cover-to-Cover Book Discussion meets 2-3:30 p.m. The group will be doing “book tastings” in December, which involves attendees hearing a “sample” of different books and, at the end of the meeting, checking out titles that interest them.

Dec. 13-14

The Art Experience, 6-7:30 p.m. each day, is a two-day program that will enable adults to explore different styles of art and mediums and create artwork. All supplies are provided. Registration is required.

Dec. 16

Boredom Buster Blockbuster for Teens will give middle and high school students a chance to watch “The Santa Clause” (PG) on their early-release day. Showings at noon and 2 p.m. Registration is not required.

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.

At Mostly Mutts, we’re on the hunt for animal-loving volunteers who can bottle-feed puppies or kittens, walk dogs, perform o ce tasks and more. We particularly need volunteers for nights and weekends. If you can spare a little time, we’d love to meet you.

Please apply at mostlymutts.org/volunteer.

ALL ABOARD for Holiday Fun

DECEMBER 1O

Join the Southern Museum for an all-day extravaganza of exciting activities, including model train displays, screenings of The Polar Express, bell choir performances by The Golden Bells of Atlanta, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Cobb Photographic Society

Monochrome

Angie Nasrallah - First Place (Morning Muffins)

Color Mark Chandler - First Place (Fruit, Crackers and Cheese)

SocietyCongratulations to everyone who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for October was “Food Photography.” The guest judge was photographer Andy Wilson. The Cobb Photographic Society is a club open to photographers of all skill levels. It meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.

Novice

Joy Rogers - Second Place (Flowers at Breakfast)

Joy Rogers - Third Place (Healthy Breakfast)

Brava Henson - First Place (My Berry Love)

Advertisers

December 2022

This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the Around Acworth magazine!

ACCOUNTING AND TAX SERVICES

Denson Pepper, CPA 20 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

Orcutt Law Offices 5 678-383-7857 www.orcuttlawoffices.com

Williams | Elleby 1 833-LEGALGA (534-2542) www.gatrialattorney.com

AUTOMOTIVE

KAMS Auto Service Center 37 770-956-4060 www.kamsauto.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue 51 770-272-6888 www.mostlymutts.org

MUST Ministries 45 www.mustministries.org

DENTAL

Biologic Dentistry 40 770-426-9994 www.biologicdentistry.com

Daniel Lee DMD, PC 3 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com

Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental

Implant Center Back cover 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

EDUCATION & RELATED SERVICES

Chattahoochee Tech 45 www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Georgia Trade School 21 www.georgiatradeschool.com

EVENTS

Georgia Food & Wine Festival 45 www.georgiafoodandwinefestival.com

The Southern Museum 51 www.southernmuseum.org

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Bay Equity Home Loans 7 Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644 www.jayclosesloans.com

Edward Jones, Roberto De Jesus and Amanda Yingling 5 678-574-5166 www.edwardjones.com

LGE Credit Union 13 www.lgeccu.org

FUNERAL SERVICES

Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 11 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com

GAS STATIONS

Shell, Acworth Travel Plaza 9 770-702-5910

HOME & GARDEN

Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 1 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com

Enhance Floors & More 31 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com

Maid in America 3 770-427-4448 www.maidinamericaga.com

Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 43 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Red Baryl Portraits 55 815-540-0936

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine Cover, 28-29 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com

REAL ESTATE/HOUSING & SERVICES

Anchor Realty Partners 7 Malinda Howe, Broker: 404-444-0225 Deborah Hill: 770-361-9200 www.malindahowe.com

Bob Brooks, American Eagle Mortgage Georgia Team 37 770-572-4173 www.bobbrooksloans.com

Debi Smith, Atlanta Communities 20 Direct: 404-660-6652 Office: 770-240-2004 debismith.atlcommunities.com

Linda Kennedy, American Eagle Mortgage Georgia Team 11 678-614-4653 www.ccm.com/linda-kennedy

Siegel Select Extended-Stay Living 43 678-257-3124 www.siegelselect.com/extended-stayapartments-atlanta

RESTAU RANTS/FOOD

Dairy Queen 9 678-903-4090

The Fountain 17 www.thefountainacworth.com

Wasabi 14 770-515-9988 wasabisushiacworth.kwickmenu.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING

Canton Jewelry 3 770-720-1965 www.cantonjewelry.com

Cotton Mill Exchange 5 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

Golf Cars of Canton 7 678-880-1156 www.golfcarsofcanton.com

Your CBD Store-Acworth 37 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com

SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES

DayBreak Village Inside cover 770-218-6166 www.daybreakvillage.com

Varenita of West Cobb 56 470-750-3500

SPAS

Pearl’s Spa 16 770-966-9099 www.pearlsspa.org

VENUES

The Cowan Historic Mill 16 www.thecowanmill.com

We have a place in the homes of our community.

KIM JENNIFER CANDI MICHELLE MICHELLE DENISE

LAURA SAVANNAH

DONNA KAT JESSICA