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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Contents February 2018
16
32 & 33 On the Cover Cherokee Charter Academy photo by Rebekah Gregg
53
Features
34
In This Issue
14 Seniors on the Move
Nathan Brandon tells us how a trip with senior citizens to a World’s Fair set the groundwork for a life of helping our older neighbors stay vital.
16
Summer Camps
4 Around Canton 12 Birthdays & Celebrations 62 Directory of Advertisers
Community
It’s never too early to start planning for summer camps since they tend to fill up quickly. This handy guide will give you ideas for a variety of fun activities that will provide your kids with great summer memories.
18
Winter Water Safety
Since many local residents participate in lake activities year round, water safety is important to practice all year. Here’s what you need to know for enjoying the lake in the wintertime.
20 Time to Vote for Readers’ Choice 24 Meet the MLK Unity Award Winner 52 A Haven for Children 56 Cyclists Coming to Cherokee
Resources 27 National Pet Dental Health Month 38 Winter Break Survival Guide 40 Help With Aging Parents’ Finances 44 There’s Always Fun @ the Library
Advertising
Health
Katherine Amick, Market Manager 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundAboutMagazines.com www.AroundCantonMagazine.com
30 Find Your Motivation for Better Health 34 Local Man Gets Second Chance
Schools 53 Future Nurses Don Symbolic White Coat
AroundCantonMagazine
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
AroundCantonMag around_canton
54 Reinhardt Coach Extends Contract
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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AROUND CANTON The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Canton/ Holly Springs/ Sixes
From the Editor
We didn’t go into this issue with a theme in mind, other than acknowledging Valentine’s month here and there. But as we wrap up the magazine, I’m realizing there is a focus on loving our senior citizens. My friend Nathan Brandon does an amazing job of that and tells the story of one rainy World’s Fair trip and how that led to a career in caring for seniors. Read about it on pages 14-15. On page 40, Cindy Nelson offers tips for helping our aging parents with their finances. And don’t forget to catch the birthday photo from The Lodge at BridgeMill on page 12. We are always happy to help celebrate those residents. My mother celebrated her 94th birthday during the February production cycle. I could add that my husband reached his 60th year, but that really isn’t considered senior status, is it? Don’t answer that question. As a self-confessed, spoiled-rotten only child, I hope I am making up for the temper tantrums and ornery attitudes that characterized my younger years. Add to the mix that I never wanted to leave my mother’s side. Bless her heart! I remember my pediatrician telling her she needed to hire a babysitter once a week and get away from me. See why I have a lot of Candi and her mom celebrate with one of her favorites: an ice cream making up to do? cake. I’m a voracious advocate for my Mom, and I’m learning so much from our contributing writers who share their wisdom to help senior citizens and their families navigate the often turbulent waters of aging. I hope you are learning from them as well. The advantage our Aroundabout Local Media staff has is that we are residents of this community, and get our magazines in the mail just like you do. We were readers long before we became employees. As your neighbors, we work hard to make sure the content of each issue is relevant, interesting, fun and uplifting for you. Reach out to us and let us know how we’re doing!
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Around Canton. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
What’s Coming
At press time, a groundbreaking for Panera Bread in downtown Canton was set for the first week of February. The city of Holly Springs awarded the contract for the Holly Springs Parkway widening project during the council meeting Jan. 18. Construction on the $3.2 million project is expected to begin this spring, with an April 1 to August 1 closure of the parkway between Home Depot and Rabbit Hill Road. Three planned developments will help offset construction costs. Developers of Meridian at Holly Springs, a mixed-use residential and commercial project going in across Holly Springs Parkway from Home Depot, and Holly Park and Sixes Ridge apartments will contribute $1,177 per residential unit ($1,073,424) to the project. The project will include the extension of culverts over Toonigh Creek, four travel lanes with a median from Home Depot to Rabbit Hill Road, the addition of sidewalks and lamp posts along the roadway and the addition of a traffic light at the intersection of Holly Springs Parkway at Rabbit Hill Road. As part of this project, Rabbit Hill Road is slated for improvements from I-575 to Holly Springs Parkway.
What’s Closed
Mary’s Bread Basket, on Reinhardt College Parkway has closed
due to poor health of the owner, Mary Kent, according to her daughter Stacy Golden. But fans will be happy to know the Marble Hill location is still open at 171 Foothills Parkway. 770-893-1034. www.marysbreadbasket.com.
What’s Changed
Steep Tea House at 198 North St., downtown Canton, is now open
Friday and Saturday evenings until 8 p.m. According to the website, www.thesteepteahouse.com, lunch hours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. TuesdaySaturday, with dinner offered 5-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Reservations recommended for dinner. 770-213-8890.
What’s Moving
The Holly Springs post office will be moving to a new location, a 3,600-square-foot space at 2210 Holly Springs Parkway, in the strip mall across from the Walmart parking lot. The current location is 2631 Holly Springs Parkway; the post office will be moving a little more than a mile north toward exit 14 at I-575. According to United States Postal Service spokesman Rick Badie, no date has been set for the move.
Look Who’s Coming to Georgia!
American Pickers plans to film in Georgia this winter, and the
show’s stars, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, are looking for places to pick. If you or someone you know has a large, private collection or accumulation of antiques that the pickers can look through, send the contact’s name, phone number, location and description of the collection to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-OLD-RUST. Follow on Facebook at GotAPick. They only pick private collections, therefore malls, flea markets, museums, auctions and other businesses open to the public don’t qualify.
Welcome Dr. Lakeisha Blair-Watson MEDICAL ASSOCIATES of NORTH GEORGIA
320 Hospital Road, Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-5535 Medassoc.com
.
Dr. Blair-Watson is a board-certified physician in family medicine, and specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and management of medical conditions in patients of all ages. Dr. Blair-Watson offers the compassionate, attentive care you are accustomed to from Medical Associates of North Georgia, and offers a full range of primary care services to keep you and your family healthy including chronic disease management, acute illness care and comprehensive preventative care.
Dr. Blair-Watson offers a full range of services, including: • • • • • •
Adult, adolescent and pediatric care Sick and well Visits Annuals and Sports Physicals Women’s health services, including pap smears High blood pressure and high cholesterol management Immunizations
We accept most insurance plans, are welcoming new patients and offer a convenient location for the Cherokee County and North Georgia Communities. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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COMMUNITY BOARD
The Around Canton Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine and advisors who offer valuable feedback.
Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married
Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She was recently named the public outreach manager for the city of Canton, and continues to volunteer on numerous boards and committees. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren. Pharmacist Dale Coker owns Cherokee Custom Script Pharmacy in Holly Springs and lives in Woodstock with wife Susan. The University of Georgia graduate is vice president of the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists. His community involvement has included Cherokee County Habitat for Humanity, youth league coaching and church leadership. Dale’s latest achievement is co-inventing the patented Topi-CLICK, a topical metered dosing device.
Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator.
She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for more than 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well.
Dr. Joe McKechnie senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist Church, grew up in Cobb County. After earning a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Georgia, Joe spent six years as a television sportscaster. He has a master’s degree from Asbury Theological Seminary and a doctorate of ministry from Southern Methodist University. Joe and wife Catherine have two children, David and Grace Ann. Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and lives in Woodstock with her son and daughter. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children. Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Forever We, Inc., a socially responsible toy company that believes every child deserves a forever family, safe housing and a healthy body. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the Executive Board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. Dr. Oliver “Ollie” Evans is the chiropractor at Holly Springs Chiropractic and Massage. The Cherokee county native attended Holly Springs and Sixes elementary schools and Woodstock Middle and High schools. His secondary education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and health science from Kennesaw State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Dr. Ollie serves as the team doctor for the KSU ice hockey team, is a USA hockey referee, and very involved in the CrossFit community. Dr. Ollie also serves on the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation and several other charity boards. 6
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Manager Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton, Holly Springs and Sixes areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 23,900 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 1,100 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 64 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Around Canton is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2018. Around Canton 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, PMB 380 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Katherine Amick Katherine@aroundaboutmagazines.com or 678-279-5502
Volume 5, Issue 11
America’s Community Magazine
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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COMMUNITY
YOUR LOCAL NEWS Chamber Honors Local Businesses
Julianne Rivera, 2018 Chamber Board Chair, with First Citizen Scott McElroy.
Small Business of the Year Award: Bryan Reynolds, left, with Jamie Pritchett and Amy Hall of North GA CPA Services.
During the 47th annual Cherokee Chamber of Commerce meeting, Scott McElroy was given the 43rd annual First Citizen of Cherokee County honor, along with North GA CPA Services, which received the 2018 Small Business of the Year award, and Nelson Elder Care Law, which earned the 2018 Excellence in Customer Service Award. The business awards were chosen by independent, out-of-town judges. The Going Green Business of the Year, chosen based upon their commitment to environmental excellence as well as their implementation of additional green tactics within their organization, was awarded to In Harmony Pediatric Therapy. Janet Ponichtera was named Chairman’s Council volunteer of the year. In other chamber news, outgoing board Chair Bryan Reynolds, director of the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Agency, passed the gavel to incoming Chair Julianne Rivera, owner of Sold by Julianne — Keller Williams Atlanta North. “In 2017, over 5,300 current and future members attended the variety of events offered by the chamber, while 178 new members were recruited to the chamber, bringing our year-end membership total to 981. We are boasting a 2017 membership retention rate of 86 percent (up from 85 percent in 2016 and 83 percent in 2015),” Reynolds said. Rivera announced the chamber’s top three goals for 2018, which include increasing the chamber’s net membership by 5 percent, involving emerging leaders in the programs of the chamber, and instilling the value of chamber membership. She also referenced the chamber’s ongoing organizational efforts, which include continuing to focus strategically – utilizing the organization’s 2020 Vision, continuing to enhance member benefits, and continuously measuring success. The mission of the Cherokee County Chamber is to promote business and the community while expanding the economy and enhancing the quality of life. www.CherokeeChamber.com.
Young Farmer Honored for Her Service Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) recently honored Cherokee County’s Molly Childs for her two years of service on the GFB Young Farmer Committee. Childs is a horse trainer and riding instructor who raises horses and Netherlands dwarf rabbits for pets and as show animals. She is a member of Sixes United Methodist Church in Canton and serves as a volunteer firefighter in Ball Molly Childs Ground. “One of the most important things we do is cultivate the future leaders of our organization and of agriculture,” GFB President Gerald Long said. “The time and effort Molly has contributed over the past two years has been invaluable to Georgia Farm Bureau.”
A New Project at the Arts Center The Cherokee County Arts Center has received the 2018 Vibrant Communities Grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts, which paves the way for a community project. The plan is to create a garden totem out of clay to present a visual story of what the arts center does. Clay artists are working on the project through the end of May. Stay tuned for updates at www.cherokeearts.org. 8
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
From left: Mark Cornelius, president of the HFVFD; Larry Berry, a charter member who served for 40 years until his retirement last year; Tim Prather, Cherokee County fire chief; and Tim Crossland, former fire chief of HFVFD.
County Gains Fire Station 32 Representatives of the board of trustees of the former Hickory Flat Volunteer Fire Department transferred ownership of Fire Station 32, located at 3644 Sugar Pike Road, to Cherokee County. The move will allow the station to continue serving area residents and undergo upgrades and renovations. The first day of service was in July 1978.
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Call 404-459-1900 for an appointment with Dr. Gerald A. Feuer in Atlanta & Marietta.
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• Uterine Fibroids • Pelvic Adhesive Disease
Towne Lake
900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189
Call 770-721-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Michelle A. Glasgow in Canton & Towne Lake.
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS The Exchange Taps Into Self Care
Mini Grant Awarded to County Health Departments
The topic of The Exchange on Feb. 8 will be Soul Keeping, featuring a fun yet meaningful discussion with Vikki Fraker and Elizabeth Pherson. Their dialogue will touch on the importance of women taking time to do something each day to recharge themselves, to take care of their souls. The Exchange meets at 7 p.m. at Venue 92, 12015 Highway 92 in Woodstock. Suggested donation is $10. RSVP at www.theexchangeus.org.
Health departments in the North Georgia Health District were awarded the 2018 Car Seat Mini Grant by the Georgia Department of Public Health Injury Prevention Program. Through the mini grant, Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield county health departments and local collaborative partners work together to provide car seats and education to financially eligible families. This program is funded by the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to help ensure Georgia’s children are safe while riding in motor vehicles. For details, visit www.nghd.org and click on the locations tab.
Leadership Class of 2018 The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce has selected the Leadership Cherokee Class of 2018. This 30th anniversary class was chosen through participation in a nomination, application and interview process. Over the next nine months, class members will participate in a broad range of sessions that will focus on a variety of topics, such as economic development, infrastructure, government, justice, education, recreation, tourism, public safety, healthcare and social/human services. The 20-member Teen Leadership class also was named, a group selected from 80 Cherokee County high school sophomores who applied. Applicants were asked to submit a formal application and participated in a personal interview with local business leaders. Over the next three months, students will participate in four class sessions and complete an individual project, all of which will address topics such as community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building.
Teen Leadership class members, front row from left: Faith Holley, Creekview; Emma Gelatt, Sequoyah; Max Marchetti, Etowah; Belle Cool, Cherokee; Jackie Johnson, Cherokee. Middle row, from left: Ashley Barnett, Etowah; Laney Broussard, Woodstock; Emily LeBlanc, Cherokee; Anna Huller, Cherokee; Alyssa Kirby, Sequoyah; Gwendolyn Peppers, Etowah. Back row, from left: Matthew Thomas, 2018 Teen Leadership chairman; Preslie Cushing, Creekview; Katherine Williams, Sequoyah; Jackson Taylor, Sequoyah; Dilan Mehta, Etowah; Fish Riddick, Etowah; Logan Griffin, Creekview; Natalie Allen, Creekview; Benjamin Prien, Cherokee. Not pictured: Maeter Greene, Sequoyah; and Brittany Page, 2018 Teen Leadership vice-chair. Leadership Cherokee Class members, front row from left: Laura Smith, Hamilton State Bank; Jennifer Puckett; In Harmony Pediatric Therapy; Leslie Sullivan, Northside Hospital Cherokee. Second row, from left: Jamie Gianfala, Cherokee County Marshal’s Office; Jessica Carvalho, Woodstock City Church; Emili Roman, Georgia Probation Management; Amy Macy, WellStar Health System; Rachel Ashe, Cherokee County Office of the Solicitor General; Shellie Hollingsworth, Hollingsworth & Co. Real Estate; Viktoriya Dubovis, Chart Inc. Third row, from left: Julie West, Cherokee County Clerk of Courts; Rick Beaulieu, Cherokee County School District; Kristi Estes, In Harmony Pediatric Therapy; Casey Geiger, Law Office of J. Christopher Geiger; Ariana McPherson, Primrose School of Harmony on the Lakes; Greg Clyburn, city of Holly Springs. Fourth row from left: Will Carlan, Hasty Pope LLP; Bill Smith, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office; Ryan McElwee, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services; Kyle Bettis, Northside HospitalCherokee; Aaron Vincent, Vincent Financial Group; Scott Deal, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services.
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
HEART ATTACK AT 50. 10K AT 51.
When you come into the ER at Northside Hospital Cherokee with a heart problem, you’ll be treated three times faster than the national average. We built a hospital for you with a seamless team of board certified cardiologists, nurses and staff. Whatever it takes, they’ll make you better and get you back in the race. For information visit Northside.com/Cherokee-Heart. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Celebrations!
Happy birthday Caden! Age 6 on Feb. 6
Celebrating February birthdays at The Lodge at BridgeMill Senior Community
From left: Dorothy McIntyre, Marlys Peterson, Betty Hickcox, Rose Marie Messina and Mary Ruth Reagan. Camera-shy celebrants are Nancy Hamil and Maureen Mulloy.
Happy 10th birthday, Addison!
We love you! Mom, dad, Anna Grace and Cassie
Happy 18th birthday, Megan!
We are so proud of you! Love you always, Momma, Lauren and Madison
Chloe Eads
Age 9 on Feb. 3
Avery Bass
Age 4 on Feb. 27
Happy birthday Chloe and Avery! We love you to the moon and back! Mommy and Daddy
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Happy birthday to Fox!
Age 1 on Feb. 14 We love you more than words. Thank you for being you!
Emilie Clason
Feb. 8 It’s your Sweet 16th and we can hardly believe it! We love you to the moon, Mom,` Dad and Jacob
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com March deadline is Feb. 10. Please specify Around Canton.
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Stay Connected with Specials and Promotions. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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An outdoor pickleball game in progress.
Staying Healthy in the Senior Years
It didn’t take long for Nathan Brandon, fresh out of seminary, to realize that he shouldn’t underestimate senior citizens. All it took was a trip to the World’s Fair with an active group of senior adults to set him on a course that would ultimately benefit him in his retirement years. While Brandon retired in 2015 as director of Cherokee County Senior Services, he is as active as ever. We asked him to tell us how he got involved working with seniors and what inspires him to keep busy exercising every day of the week.
What’s your background with seniors in Cherokee County? “We moved to Canton in 1982 from seminary, and I was hired as a staff minister at First Baptist Church, Canton. That job also had responsibilities with senior adults. That was my first experience. It was incredible! My first trip with them was to the World’s Fair in Knoxville, Tenn. It rained like a cow urinating on a flat rock! I thought the seniors would be miserable. WRONG! They outran us and insisted on a fire when we returned to the condo. It only got better. In 1986, I went to Berea College for training in the Body Recall exercise programs for older adults. It was a hit and soon our senior group included many seniors from the community. From that experience, I eventually went into work with seniors through the assisted living industry. It was my pleasure to work with families to help their loved ones thrive in a safe and enjoyable environment. 14
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
“I transitioned from assIsted living work to direct the Cherokee Senior Services Agency. We served many adults who did not have the means to chose assisted living. Through providing meals on wheels, homemaker services and case management, we were able to help seniors stay in their homes longer. Then, about four years ago, I started the Body Recall exercises for the seniors we served.”
What prompted you to help seniors pursue exercise? “I felt like our programs took care of personal needs and material needs but lacked the physical needs of our seniors. Body Recall stresses emphasis on strength, flexibility, balance and coordination in order to sustain independence as long as possible. Since that first class in February of 2013, the program has grown significantly. We now meet in the Boys and Girls Club gym across from senior services [office on Univeter Road in Canton]. Their director, Keisha Day, has been very supportive. She allows us to use the gym each morning for exercise as well as Pickleball. “Recently, in May of 2017, I was introduced to Pickleball. It’s a combination of racquetball and tennis and badminton. It’s perfect for older adults, of which I am now a member, who want some cardio exercise without excessive running. Our group now plays five days a week in the Boys and Girls Club gym. We invite beginners to come and play without being intimidated by the competition.”
Is transportation an issue? “Transportation for seniors is the number one biggest challenge. Independence requires the ability to travel to doctor appointments, grocery shopping and worship. We started the volunteer driver program at senior services that still provides rides for seniors at no cost. It’s a delicate balance for families to discourage their senior from driving, yet can’t provide transportation when needed. The ‘talk’ about driving is second only to moving out of one’s home.”
Explain the benefits of exercise for senior adults. “As we age, we can experience challenges to our normal or youthful range of motion, flexibility, balance and coordination. If we continue to move, we’ll be better able to deal with these natural changes in our physical abilities.”
What if someone has never exercised? “The first step you can take is walking. Set realistic, measurable goals to help you start a meaningful exercise program. (The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency offers a Silver Roamers program for seniors to remain active and enjoy fellowship. Call or visit 770924-7768 or visit www.crpa.net.) “Every exercise program should include a combination of cardio and weights. It may be wise to have supervision if you have a medical history that prevents cardio work without supervision. And remember that it’s important to stay hydrated. A balanced nutrition program and proper hydration will enable most older adults to enjoy an exceptional quality of life.”
Nathan Brandon encourages Wayne Page as he works out in the new pocket park, an exercise area built with a $43,000 grant from Northside Hospital. The park was constructed at the Canton senior center at 1001 Univeter Road.
Cherokee Senior Services classes: Body Recall
8:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Malon D. Mimms Boys and Girls Club, 1082 Univeter Road, Canton. 770-720-7712. www.bgcma.org/club/mimms/. Free.
S.A.F.E.
Strength and Flexibility Exercises held Tuesdays and Thursdays at the William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. www.woodstockga.gov/92/WilliamG-Long-Senior-Center. Free.
Pickleball
9:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 8 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday at the Malon D. Mimms Boys and Girls Club gym. Free.
Parachutes are among the equipment provided by the Cherokee County Senior Center for Body Recall classes. Participants also use foam balls, resistance bands and wooden dowels they call “magic wands.” AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Not to rush you, but summer break will be here before we know it. If you’re making plans for your family’s vacations, don’t forget to book a week or two of camp activities for the kids. Our annual guide of local summer camps should help you find overnight and day camps that work for your family. Register early since many camps fill up quickly.
2018 Brainy Bytes Technology Camps STEM adventures await, whether you are looking to conquer robot, drone and minecraft challenges or wanting to create games, movies, 3D objects, websites and more. Weekly half-day and full-day camps for ages 5 and up start June 4. Locations throughout Cherokee and Cobb. 770-8260449. www.brainy-bytes.com/nw-atlanta.
Camp Gideon A Christian camp located on Lake Allatoona that offers day and overnight camping programs for children and youth to engage them socially, spiritually and physically through a variety of outdoor activities. IMPACT Camp (co-ed, ages 12+) June 9-15, Discovery Day Camps (co-ed, ages 5-11) June 11-15, 18-22, 25-29 and D24 Overnight Camp (co-ed, ages 7-13) July 2-6, July 9-13. Visit www.campgideon.com for more information, pricing and online registration. Camp Invention For children entering K-6th grades at Lyndon Academy, 485 Toonigh Road, Woodstock. June 11-15, July 9-13. Participants enjoy hands-on fun by designing and building prototypes, problem solving, exploring STEM concepts and learning teamwork. In partnership with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 800-968-4332. www.campinvention.org. 16
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Guide Camp Juliette Low An overnight camp for girls ages 7-17 that offers outdoor programs to foster self-confidence, independence, teamwork and leadership. Traditional camping, platform tents, outdoor adventure, fun and friendship await. One- and two-week sessions available June 3-July 28. Located on Lookout Mountain in Cloudland, Ga. For more info call 770-428-1062, email info@ CJL.org or visit www.CJL.org.
Cherokee County YMCA Day Camps Summer camping experience available at the Woodstock and Canton locations. Full-day camp for ages 5-15, and halfday camp for ages 4-5. Traditional and specialty programs offered. Cost of traditional full-day camp is $170 per child per week. For more info, call 678-8803502, email robertbe@ymcaatlanta.org or visit www.ymcaatlanta.org/coy.
Camp Splash The Woodstock Aquatic Center and Gold Swim school will host weekly Summer Camp Splash June 4 through July 20 for ages 5-12 with a of maximum 16 campers per week. Campers need to bring a packed lunch daily; snacks and water provided. Camp is $265 per week, $250 for multiple weeks, 10 percent off for siblings. To register, call 770-591-1998, email Frontdesk@goldswim.com, or online at www.goldswim.com.
Dance Imagination Fairytale Dance Camp is four hours of games, craft activities, snack, play time, tumble, lunch and dance. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in June and July. Call 678-445-2731 or check www.danceimagination.com for updates.
Cherokee Tennis Center Tiny Tots Camp for ages 8 and younger Monday-Thursday 8:15-9 a.m. Cost is $50 per session. Includes tennis games, review of tennis fundamentals with the emphasis on fun. The USTA 10-and-under format uses smaller nets, softer/lower bouncing balls, and short courts tailored to younger players. Each camper will receive a prize each week. Day camp is for ages 8 and older, Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-noon. Cost is $160 per session and consists of tennis drills, point play, game play and more. Each session will end with prizes and a pizza party. Campers will receive a T-shirt during the first week. Multiple-child discounts are offered. Camp dates are June 11-14, 1821,15-28. July 9-12, 16-19, 23-26. Register online at www.cherokeetenniscenter.com or call 770-592-4582.
Dance For His Glory Camps will be held June 11-15 and July 9-13, and are available for ages 7-18. More information and registration available online at www.danceforhisglory.net. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village This organization has one of the oldest and largest arts education programs for young people in the region. Camps are taught by trained counselors, who introduce children ages 5-14 to the exciting world of the theater. Campers explore the craft of acting and learn the discipline of performing, as they develop their unique creative voices. Elm Street’s camps are to provide young people with performance and creative thinking skills that will serve them in whatever profession they one day choose. Campers develop poise, movement, speaking and acting skills as they explore improvisation, theater games, character development and the many other skills. Call 678-494-4251 for more information.
Georgia All-Star Gymnastics Day Camp Children will participate in gymnastics, arts and crafts, outdoor and indoor games, sprinkler time, watch movies, and have quiet time to read, rest or play alone. Children need to bring a snack and drinks for the morning and afternoon, and a sack lunch. Sessions are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekly May 29-July 27. Half-day and full-day rates available. Early drop-off (7-9 a.m.) and late pick-up (5-6 p.m.) available for additional $7. Located at 105 Arnold Mill Park, Woodstock. 770-516-2654. info@ga-allstars.com. www.ga-allstars.com.
Cherokee Recreation and Parks Registration begins 9 a.m. April 16 770-924-7768, www.crpa.net
K.A.O.S. Camp Designed for individuals ages 6-22 with disabilities, sponsored by the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Association, will be held at Woodstock Elementary School May 29July 27. Hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Contact Jen Fischer, jlfischer@cherokeega.com. Adventures Express Camp Weekly camps May 29-July 27 at the rec center for kindergarten-age 8 and Hickory Flat Elementary for kindergarten-age 12. 6:30-9 a.m. drop-off, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. camp activities, 4-6:30 p.m. pick-up. $130 weekly, $30 deposit per week due at registration. Fishing Camp The basics of fishing, strategies and tactics, and other skills will be taught to campers ages 9-14, June 4-8 and June 18-22. Campers will travel to new destinations each day. A cookout and fish fry will wrap up the week. Cost is $150 for each week. Contact Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com. Summit Lacrosse At Riverside Athletic Complex, ages 8-18, 9 a.m.-noon May 29-June 1. $160. Contact Adam Fussell, cafussell@cherokeega.com. Waterlogged At the Recreation Center pavilion for ages 9-12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 11-15 and July 9-13. Water field trip daily. $250. Contact Frankie Sanders, fsanders@cherokeega.com.
Paper.Scissors.Cake. Camps for ages 2-12 are broken down into three camp days and times. Toddler and preschool camps have weekly themes, while school-age children will explore painting, drawing, collage, mixed media and printmaking. No two camp sessions are alike. Located at 6687 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. For more details, visit www.paperscissorscakeartstudio.com, call 404-867-1630 or email paperscissorscake@windstream.net. Safety Town A summer camp with a pint-sized town where safety messages are taught by Cherokee County safety professionals to children entering kindergarten in the fall. Topics covered include water, poison and fire safety, stranger awareness, school bus, pedestrian and traffic safety, and more. Volunteers help run three one-week sessions at Bascomb Elementary School 9 a.m.-noon, June 4-8, 11-15 and 18-22. Cost is $80 per child per week and includes crafts, snacks and a T-shirt. For more information and registration forms, visit http://safekidscherokeecounty.org/. Contact director Ashley Arp cherokeecountysafetytown@gmail.com or 770-894-2151 for questions.
Adventure Teen Camp At Recreation Center pavilion for ages 13-15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 16-20. Outdoor adventures including zip-lining, ropes challenge courses, canoeing/kayaking and more. Contact Jen Fischer, jlfischer@cherokeega.com. Teen Camp At Recreation Center pavilion for ages 13-15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 25-29. Fun trips to White Water, rafting, Six Flags, white water rafting and more. $250. Contact Jen Fischer, jlfischer@cherokeega.com. Cherokee High School fast-pitch At Twin Creeks Softball Complex for ages 7-14, 9 a.m.-noon June 25-28. Glove, bat, cleats and athletic clothing needed. $130. Contact Kate Borden, kborden@cherokeega.com. Champions Fast-Pitch Softball At Twin Creeks for ages 7-14, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. July 23-26. Glove, bat, cleats and athletic clothing needed. $125. Contact Kate Borden, kborden@cherokeega.com. Xplosive Speed & Agility For ages 6-15, 6-8:30 p.m. June 25-28. Participants will refine their techniques, increase speed, strength and agility for any sport. $95. Contact Neely Motijunas, nmotiejunas@ cherokeega.com. Gymnastics At Recreation Center gym for ages 6-12, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. July 2-3 and 5-6. $75 for two days, $140 for four. No camp July 4. Learn fundamentals of gymnastics and tumbling. Contact Jen Fischer, jlfischer@cherokeega.com. Challenge Island STEM-Wars Camp for ages 6-11, 9 a.m.-noon June 11-15. Movie-inspired challenges, including building your own spaceship, droids and rockets. Includes all materials. $170. Contact Frankie Sanders, fsanders@cherokeega.com. Magic Camp At Recreation Center stage for ages 5-12, 9 a.m.-noon June 4-8, and ages 13 and older 1-4 p.m. June 4-8. Discover the art of magic including card and coin tricks, making objects appear and disappear, levitation and read a spectator’s mind. Parent show on Friday. Contact Frankie Sanders, fsanders@cherokeega.com.com or 770-894-2151 for questions. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Water Safety is a Year-Round Concern CONTRIBUTED BY U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, MOBILE DISTRICT
Public safety is the No. 1 priority of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Corps urges anyone planning to be on or around water to practice boating and water safety throughout the year. Life jackets save lives and should be worn at all times by anyone in a boat, including those who are waterfowl hunting or fishing. Statistics show that nearly 90 percent of those who drown were not wearing a life jacket, and nearly two-thirds didn’t plan to be in the water. If you plan on being outdoors near or on the water, dress appropriately for the water temperature — not the air temperature — because you could find yourself capsized or thrown from a boat. You could be in cold water and unable to swim, because, in a short amount of time, your muscles will get cold and you will lose the ability to rescue yourself. Many suspected drowning victims actually die from cold water immersion instead of hypothermia. Hypothermia is still something that you should be aware of. It is a condition in which the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Violent shivering develops, which may give way to confusion and a loss of body movement. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers National Operations Center for Water Safety advises that the danger to individuals immersed in cold water increases as water temperature decreases below normal body temperature (98.6 degrees F). Cold-water immersion follows four stages: cold shock, swimming failure, hypothermia and post-rescue collapse. Most cold-water drownings are attributed to the first two stages. 18
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If you fall into cold water, remember the 1-10-1 rule. Cold shock will pass in about 1 minute. This is an initial deep and sudden gasp, followed by hyperventilation. During this time, concentrate on not panicking and getting breathing under control. Over the next 10 minutes, you will lose the effective use of your fingers, arms and legs. During this time, concentrate on self-rescue initially, and, if that isn’t possible, prepare to have a way to keep your airway clear to breath and wait for rescue. Even in ice water, it could take about one hour before you become unconscious due to hypothermia. It is critical to wear a life jacket to keep afloat and keep your head above water. Life jacket styles are available for many activities, including hunting and cold weather. Float coats come in many colors, including camouflage for waterfowl hunting, and for those who boat when air and water temperatures are cool. In addition to wearing a life jacket, there are some things you can do to delay hypothermia. The Heat Escape Lessening (HELP) and Huddle positions help conserve body heat. If alone in cold water, pull your knees up to your chest and wrap your arms around your knees. If you are with other people, huddle together as close as possible, and wrap your arms around each other. It is important for all boaters to wear a life jacket, avoid boating alone, tell someone where you are going and when you will return, check the capacity plate and don’t overload your boat, dress for the water temperature, and know how to minimize heat loss if you end up in the water. Life jackets worn … nobody mourns. Learn more at PleaseWearIt.com.
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Ask about our Eze-Breeze porch enclosures, screen rooms, custom patio furniture, aluminum and cable railings, waterproof flooring, rugs and lighting. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Time to
Among the categories you can expect to find:
Restaurants American Asian Bakery Barbecue Breakfast Coffee Shop Dessert Fine Dining Italian Kid-Friendly Mexican Pizzeria Seafood
Retailers
Bicycle Sales Boutique Florist Garden Center/Nursery Gifts/Home Décor Jeweler Music Animal/Pet Supplies Liquor Store Pharmacy Specialty Foods Tires
Recreation & Entertainment Our 2018 voting opens at 9 a.m. Feb. 1. We hope you will take time out from your busy schedules to vote for your favorites in the categories listed here. Our local business owners bring so much value to our community - here’s a unique way to show our appreciation. Visit www.aroundcantonmagazine.com and with a click of your mouse, you will be directed to the voting site. Follow the prompts and cast your vote for your favorite SMALL businesses.
As you vote, please keep in mind:
1. Most of us spend a fair amount of time in
big-box retailers. Let’s keep the focus of Readers' Choice on local small businesses and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit.
2. If you don’t see the name of your favorite business, feel free to write it in. Please include the location of the business, if there are multiple sites. For example, many restaurants have three or four locations. Help us know which one you’re voting for by giving as much information as possible, such as a street or community name.
3. Voting begins Feb. 1 and ends at 5 p.m. March 10. 4. Winners will be announced in the April issue. Businesses will not be notified ahead of time. Everyone will find out at the same time.
5. Vote in as few or as many categories as you’d like. There isn’t a minimum number of votes required for your votes to count.
6. No more than five votes per category will be accepted from each IP address. 20
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Dance Studio Golf Course/Club Gymnastics Center
Services
Adult Day Care/Respite Attorney Audiologist Automotive Bank/Credit Union Barber Shop Business Support Cardiologist Chiropractor Counseling Day Care/Preschool Day Spa Dentist Dog Training ENT/Allergy Center Equestrian Financial Adviser Funeral Home Gastroenterologist General Practitioner Hair Salon Health/Fitness Home Cleaning Home Improvement/Repair Insurance Interior Design Landscaping/Lawn Care
Music Venue Swim Lessons Theater
Massage Music Lessons Nail Salon Obstetrician/Gynecologist Ophthalmologist Optometrist Orthodontist Orthopedics/Sports Medicine Pediatric Dentist Pediatrician Pest Control Pet Grooming/Boarding Photographer Physical Therapist Plastic Surgeons Podiatrist Private School Realtor Senior Living Facility Travel Agency Tutoring Vacation Rentals Veterinarian
Happy Voting!
DOWNTOWN CANTON DINING GUIDE Your complete guide to casual and upscale sit-down dining in downtown Canton
Downtown Kitchen
SPIRITS RESERV.
Steak & Seafood
no
no
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
Seafood
no
$$
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
Eatery & Bar no 170 North St. 770-213-8970
$
$$
open
Full bar
yes
Mamma Onesta’s Italian Italian no 250 E. Main St. 678-880-7770
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
yes
R&M Sandwich Shop
$
no
closed
no
no
yes
yes
140 E. Marietta St. 770-479-1616
thedowntownkitchen.com
Goin’ Coastal 125 W. Main St. 770-479-3737
goincoastalseafood.com
Local on North localonnorth.com
mammaonesta.com/canton-ga
117 W. Main St. 770-479-4413
Custom-made Sandwiches
no
Look for R&M on Facebook.
Steep Tea House - A Moye Tea Company
American
198 North St. 770-213-8890
$-$$
Sat. Brunch
$ $-$$ closed
Tues.-Sat.
Fri.& Sat.
$$
$$$
thesteepteahouse.com
The Snug Gastro Pub
Gastropub no D 190 E. Main St. E OoSv a t i o n CL 770-213-4814 r re n
open
Full bar
yes
thesnuggastropub.com f o
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$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY
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MLK Unity Award Recipient
Percy D. Vaughn Percy Vaughn was given the MLK Unity Award during the 20th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast in January at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center. The annual event recognizes the legacy of one of America’s greatest civil rights icons and draws approximately 500 residents from all racial, political, social and religious backgrounds to promote unity among the citizens of the county. Here are the highlights of the award winner’s accomplishments. Vaughn was born in Atlanta and graduated from Cornado High School in Lubbock, Texas. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge and his MBA from Atlanta University. After graduation, he worked for Ford Motor Co., fulfilling several managerial positions and increasing his responsibilities over his 10-year tenure. After leaving Percy D. Vaughn Ford in 1986, he worked with Hyundai Motor Co. in Atlanta and was promoted to general manager of the Southern Region within six years. In 1995, Vaughn opened the Southern region office for Kia Motors America in Atlanta, where he now serves as the executive director. The Kia Southern Region office has been the No. 1 region for the past 23 years and contributes 37 percent of total sales for Kia Motors America. Vaughn currently serves as chairman of the Chick-fil-A Peach
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Bowl board, where he oversees the Peach Bowl’s board of directors and board of trustees, which includes management of the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Challenge charity golf tournament and the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Award. Vaughn previously served as vice chairman and has been involved with the bowl for six years through his time at Kia. Vaughn is also a member of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Club, received Father of the Year for 2013 from the American Diabetes Association, and is a board member for the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Vaughn’s devotion to children, charity and the community is evident in his service. He has been responsible for providing more than $20,000 a year to the Boys and Girls Club of Cherokee County for several years, and has been their fundraising event sponsor. Additionally, under Vaughn’s leadership, Carriage Kia became the 2017 title sponsor of the Allen Temple Annual Scholarship Golf Event, which provides scholarship funds for Cherokee County seniors. He also has been a major contributor to the SISTA elite golf event, which has sponsored young women in the arts and cancer awareness in Birmingham, Ala., for the past 10 years. Vaughn and his wife, Audree, have two adult children and enjoy spoiling their grandchildren.
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Rob’s Rescues For the Cherokee County Council of PTAs (CCCPTA) 10th annual Presidents and Principals Luncheon to Celebrate the Season, the Cherokee County schools PTAs and principals collected items for Rob’s Rescues. I would like to thank all the schools and PTAs that donated stuff and to Ms. Kathy Strom, Ms. Monica Orrico, Ms. Amy Krumrey, Ms. Heather Shaw and Ms. Beth Morrish of CCCPTA and also the Freedom Middle School PTA for choosing Rob’s Rescues this year. They collected so much. Exactly what was collected is on my website. We packed 46 blessing bags for the homeless people that live on the streets of Atlanta with their pets with blankets, food, gloves, bowls, treats, protein bars, toothbrushes and paste, gum, wipes and more. These are being distributed on the streets in Atlanta by Pet Buddies Food Pantry, Lifeline and W-Underdogs.
Rob with Zena.
At the moment there are no dogs at the shelter, but that changes all the time. Cobb County Animal Control has lots of dogs if the Cherokee County Animal Shelter has none. Anyway, they always have cats. Zena is about 2½ years old. She was brought to the shelter because the owners were moving in with their father and the father is allergic to cats. Zena is super nice to people and would make a good pet. She is very unusual looking.
Rob with 46 blessing bags filled with contributions from the Cherokee County Council of PTAs and Cherokee County schools.
I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.
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Tiger is about 3½ years old. They say he is good with children, just not small children. He might be a little shy and nervous of you but after a while he would be fine and a perfect cat for you. Tiger has been at the shelter since July 2017 so really deserves to find someone.
Follow Rob on Facebook!
@robsrescues
Keep Your Pet’s Mouth Healthy BY DR. JONATHAN GILVARRY
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and a perfect time to assess the health of your pet’s mouth and teeth. A common complaint from pet owners is that their pet’s breath smells awful. Foul smelling breath is definitely a key symptom of dental disease in pets. However, many owners never look inside their pet’s mouth. Dental disease is very common and doesn’t affect only senior pets. It can affect pets as young as 6 months old. All breeds, large and small, are affected as well, and can develop significant problems in their mouths. The most common dental problems are due to infection. Often, owners cannot brush their pet’s teeth for a variety of reasons: the pet won’t tolerate it, the owner can’t do it or doesn’t have the time. All of these reasons are valid. However, without brushing, infections are more likely to occur. Infection happens when bacteria gets trapped under the gum line near the tooth. This infection causes inflammation in the gums, which is called gingivitis. Characteristics of gingivitis include: redness and pain of the gums, as well as halitosis. As gingivitis gets worse, it can turn into periodontal disease, which is identified when the gums recede and the jaw bone
becomes infected. Often, teeth will be seriously caked with plaque, also called calculus, and, in advanced stages, the teeth will become loose and die. This phase is irreversible. The goal of a good dental cleaning is to examine, identify and treat. It is best to clean the teeth early under the gum line, where the infection is most critical. Although extractions of teeth are common, veterinarians would rather save teeth by cleaning and caring for them before advanced disease occurs. The old adage is true: An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure. Although infection is the most common problem, fractured teeth also can be painful for pets. Cats can have painful tooth decay and pets also can suffer from some types of mouth cancer. Please contact your veterinarian to make an appointment to have the health of your pet’s mouth assessed, and decide, if needed, the best form of treatment.
Dr. Jonathan Gilvarry has been an associate veterinarian of the BridgeMill Animal Hospital Team since 2015.
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Kids and Boxes, A Match Made in Heaven BY MATT NEAL
It’s several weeks after Christmas, and my son still finds enjoyment with all the stuff. I don’t mean the actual gifts, but the boxes they came in. Even as we started early spring cleaning he was in our way, sneaking cardboard out of the recycle bin and hoarding it someplace. And then, seemingly overnight, a gigantic box fort emerged in our living room. It looked quite eclectic, made with a crazy assortment of colors and sizes. It had a turret so he could point a Nerf gun and fire on the enemy. His friends came over and great battles ensued. For the most part, the actual presents he received were barely used. At first I was disappointed. He played with them for a few weeks, then they sat in his room. I remembered something though: Childhood is the place where imagination flourishes best, and allows young minds to expand and try new things while learning about their world. My son used his chore money to buy duct tape and yardsticks. He used them to reinforce the cardboard wings of a plane with a 6-foot wingspan. He threw it off our second
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story deck countless times, each time repairing it and adjusting it until it glided with perfection. He figured out what things like rudders and stabilizers are, and how they work. And he did it all with cardboard I meant to discard. My daughter was always the same way. Old boxes and packing material would be transformed into elaborate dollhouses. When she was young, I could see she liked dollhouses so I bought her a plastic one for her birthday. However, the magic was lacking without her own work and creativity. That was a powerful lesson to me. That shiny plastic thing with its gadgets and features meant less than her own creations, simply because the ones she made came from inside her, and from her hard work. continued on page 60
Matt Neal is a freelance writer who has lived in Woodstock with his wife since 1999. He can be reached at mattnealwriter@outlook.com.
Fear Must Not Inhibit a Financial Strategy DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
Fear affects investors in two distinct ways. Too often, it persuades investors to make questionable moves. Every so often, a bulletin, headline or sustained economic or market trend will scare them and make them question their investing approach. If they overreact, they might sell low now and buy high later – or, in the worst-case scenario, they derail their whole investing and retirement planning strategy. Besides the fear of potential market shocks, there also is another fear worth noting – the fear of being too involved in the market. People with this worry are often superb savers, but reluctant investors. They amass large bank accounts, yet their aversion to investing in equities may hurt them in the long run. Impulsive investment decisions tend to carry a cost. People who jump in and out of investment sectors or classes tend to pay a price for it. A statistic hints at how much: Across the 20 years ending on Dec. 31, 2015, the S&P 500 returned an average of 8.91 percent per year, but the average equity investor’s portfolio returned just 4.67 percent annually. Fixedincome investors also failed to beat a key benchmark: In this same period, the Barclays Aggregate Bond Index advanced an average of 5.34 percent a year, but the average fixed-income investor realized an annual return of only 0.51 percent.1 This data was compiled by DALBAR, a highly respected investment research firm, which has studied the behavior of individual investors since the mid-1980s. The numbers partly reflect the behavior of the typical individual investor who loses patience and tries to time the market. A hypothetical “average” investor who merely bought and held, with an equity or fixedincome portfolio merely copying the components of the above benchmarks, would have been better off across those 20 years.
In monetary terms, the sustained difference in performance could have been hundreds of thousands of dollars in earnings for an investor across a lifetime, given compounding.1 Other people are held back by their anxiety about investing. They become great savers, steadily building sixfigure cash positions in enormous savings or checking accounts – but they never sufficiently invest their money. That confusion comes with a severe potential downside. Just how much interest are their deposit accounts earning? Right now, almost nothing. If they invested more of the money they were saving into equities – or some kind of investment vehicle with the potential to outrun inflation – those invested dollars could grow and compound over time to a degree that idle cash does not. A large emergency fund is a great thing to have, but it can be argued that a tax-advantaged retirement fund of invested dollars is a better thing to have. After all, who retires on cash savings alone? Tomorrow’s retirees will live mainly on the earnings generated from the investment of the dollars they have saved over the decades. Seen one way, a focus on cash is financially nearsighted; it ignores the possibility that even greater abundance may be realized through its sustained investment. Fear dissuades some people from sticking with a longterm financial strategy and discourages other people from developing one. Patience and knowledge can help investors contend with the fears that may risk hurting their retirement saving prospects. continued on page 60
Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Make Those Resolutions Stick BY RACHAEL CORNELIUS
It’s not uncommon for new year resolutions to take a hike after the first month. Inspiration and motivation are fantastic for getting started, but sometimes they don’t make the cut for longevity. How do you stay strong and stick to that “new year, new you” resolution when life pulls you in different directions? The key to success is out there. You just have to find the one that works best for you. • Remember why you started. Exercising is more than just “gym time.” It’s a lifestyle choice; habits take time to develop, and this is one habit you have to work at. Why are you doing this? To lose weight? To get stronger? To crawl around on the floor and play with your grandkids or your own kids? There’s something you want, and the outcome is completely in your control. Keep that in mind, so even the hard days feel worth it. • Accountability. Time to pick your workout buddy. Compete, encourage each other, push each other, and just keep going. Having a partner forces you to schedule time to get a workout in, and having someone rely on you for the workout is a great motivator to show up. • No buddy? No problem. Not everyone loves having a workout buddy, and that’s OK. If you aren’t the partner type, join an online forum, or ask a friend to check in on your progress. Hold weighin parties where everyone gets together to measure inches lost, strength gained, weight lost. This can be fun and motivating. • Don’t get discouraged when you “fall off the wagon.” Hey, life happens. If you fall out of your routine, don’t give up. Whether it’s eating healthy or getting your workouts in, it’s OK if gaps happen here and there. Read that again … IT’S OK! Just remember your “why” and hop back into it. You don’t have to wait another 300 days to start again.
Rachael Cornelius, NASM-CPT, is a certified personal trainer who serves the community by coaching hard work, communication and discipline to help people lead healthier lives.
WellStar and Mayo Clinic. Working together. Working for you. Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer now that we are a proud member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise of Mayo to our patients. As the first and only member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network in metro Atlanta, our depth of specialty care is enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping patient care right here at home. Innovation. World-class care. WellStar. For more information, please visit wellstar.org/mayo. For physician referral, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).
WellStar Health System, the largest health system in Georgia, is known nationally for its innovative care models, focused on improving quality and access to healthcare. WellStar consists of WellStar Medical Group, 240 medical office locations, outpatient centers, health parks, a pediatric center, nursing centers, hospice, homecare, as well as 11 inpatient hospitals: WellStar Atlanta Medical Center, WellStar Atlanta Medical Center South, WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center (anchored by WellStar Kennestone Hospital), WellStar West Georgia Medical Center, and WellStar Cobb, Douglas, North Fulton, Paulding, Spalding Regional, Sylvan Grove and Windy Hill hospitals. As a not-forprofit, WellStar continues to reinvest in the health of the communities it serves with new technologies and treatments.
We believe in life well-lived.
A PUBLIC SCHOOL OF CHOICE C
ustomization and choice are key ingredients behind the success of every student at Cherokee Charter Academy. As Cherokee County’s only charter school, Cherokee Charter Academy (CCA) offers kindergarten through eighth grade. The school opened in August 2011, with the goal of giving families in the area a choice about education. “We are fortunate to have access to a great charter school in Cherokee County. I count my blessings each day knowing my children are getting the best possible education customized to each of them individually,” one parent said.
CHEROKEE CHARTER ACADEMY
2126 Sixes Road, Canton, GA 30114
678-385-7322
School hours: K-8, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Office hours: 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. www.cherokeecharter.org @cherokeecharteracademy @CherCharter 2011
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What is a charter school? Charter schools are tuition-free public schools of choice, and in Georgia are governed by the Georgia Charter Educational Foundation. They are held accountable through the demonstrated academic success of students and for upholding the promises made in their charters.
Cherokee Charter Academy is accredited by SACS (Southern Association of Colleges and Schools), and the school is managed by Charter Schools USA, one of the oldest education management companies in the United States. Why choose CCA? One feature of the school that many parents and students find helpful is the 22:1 student to teacher ratio. With smaller classroom sizes, teachers are able to provide an individualized learning approach for students. CCA and its teachers believe every child is unique, which is why every student receives a Personalized Learning Plan (PLP). Learning plans are designed to address an individual student’s strengths and weaknesses. PLPs empower students to track their own progress, and are developed as a collaborative effort between teachers, parents and students, along with other staff members who may be involved with
PHOTOS BY REBEKAH GREGG
a student’s academic achievement. “At CCA, we strive to create a positive, family environment where students can not only learn at his or her personal level, but be challenged. All students have access to hands-on, rigorous lessons with appropriate supports in place to help them be successful,” Principal April Wallace said. The school is STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) focused, with yearlong problem-based learning projects at each grade level. Some of these projects have included student-managed gardens, raising chickens and a middle school community farm on which students soon will break ground. CCA offers students a wide variety of before and after-school enrichment activities that include: athletics, theater, music, aerospace engineering, Science Olympiad, Beta Club, student government and Lego robotics, to name a few. Teachers and staff members at CCA
also believe parent involvement is crucial in a child’s education and encourage parents to be their students’ biggest cheerleader. There are many parent volunteer opportunities available, providing increased parent visibility in the school, and showing students that they are supported in their academic endeavors. Each teacher at CCA has a bachelor’s degree and is certified in the state of Georgia; many have advanced degrees. “No other school will work harder to meet your child’s needs. From differentiated instruction, to an individualized personal learning plan to small group to one-on-one and tutoring, we will fight to help your child realize their potential,” a CCA fourth-grade teacher said. How do I enroll my student? Open enrollment for the 2018-2019 school year will end Feb. 28. Applications can be filled out online at
www.cherokeecharter.org. If the number of applications submitted by the deadline exceeds the number of seats available for any grade level, a system-generated, random lottery will be processed to determine who is offered a seat at the school. Applications for the current school year will be accepted through the end of the academic year. Applications submitted for this school year will not be valid, roll over, or be processed in the 2018-2019 lottery. A new application must be submitted during open enrollment in order to be considered for the next academic year. The school’s current total capacity is 1,100 students, and CCA is hoping to open its doors to Cobb, Bartow and Pickens counties for the 2018-2019 school year. Tours are offered at 9 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. No appointment is necessary. Sponsored Content
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
Patti and Scott Yapp with Dr. Jinu Kamdar (center).
Quick Action Gives Local Man a Second Chance Quick response after such a devastating accident and proper treatment is essential to the patient’s recovery. Scott had a head injury, broken ribs, bruised lung, broken thigh Patti Yapp looked out a lake house window. The calm bone, broken leg and shattered hips. But that wasn’t the waters reflected the sun. Her husband, Scott, and his brother biggest threat to Scott’s life: He lost six pints of blood. laughed while they played on their jet skis. It was a perfect “He came to us with a very low blood pressure, barely day on Lake Allatoona. alive,” said Dr. Jinu Kamdar, a WellStar trauma surgeon. “He Something gave her pause and she glanced out the window was hanging on by a thread.” again. What she saw chilled her to the bone When someone has a bleeding emergency, that hot summer day. Two jet skis collided. When someone minutes can mean life or death. In Scott’s Bodies flew. A sunbeam formed a spotlight has a bleeding case, a series of surgeries was needed to to reveal their empty jet skis, rocking on repair his broken bones, and an intensive the water. emergency, care team nursed him through the critical “I looked over my right-hand shoulder,” minutes can mean days and weeks after the surgeries. Scott said, remembering the moment “There were a host of nurses. I was in five before the crash. “My brother wasn’t there. life or death. or six rooms as I progressed through my I took a quick turn. In a couple seconds, he care. Different doctors would come see me. had moved from my left side to my right Everybody was really thoughtful, and I could tell and feel that side. I didn’t take that second glance. I went into a sharp I was the priority. I’m glad they chose to do what they do turn and he had nowhere to go. He T-boned right into me with their lives. It made a difference in mine,” he said. and that’s pretty much when everything went dark.” A few years later, Scott jokes that Patti won’t let him on On the dock, Patti called 911. another jet ski. But, he is thankful for her quick thinking and “I yelled at the first boat I saw,” Patti said. “Please, go help the medical care he received. Fully recovered, he enjoys the my husband!” sunshine, the water and his family more than ever. A boater found the men; Scott’s brother was OK. But the “Scott had that fighting spirit; he kept on fighting, and collision crushed Scott’s body. Paramedics rushed him to the that’s why he’s here today,” Dr. Kamdar said. nearest trauma center, at WellStar Kennestone Hospital. SUBMITTED BY WELLSTAR HEALTH SYSTEMS
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Telephone Tips for Hearing Aid Users BY DR. SARAH LICHT
The overall sound quality and clarity of a phone conversation can depend on many factors, including cell service, unfamiliar voices and even the environment around you, the listener. These factors can be even more daunting to someone who has a hearing loss. Many patients with hearing loss struggle to talk on the phone, because they can’t see visual cues from the speaker. Here are some recommendations to make communicating over the phone easier: • Ask the person on the other end of the line to speak slower, not necessarily louder. • Reduce the background noise as much as possible.
Landlines
1.
Ask your audiologist if you have the telecoil feature (also known as “t-coil”) in your hearing aid. This is a small, copper coil that allows you to enhance the signal from a telephone call. Sometimes, this feature is automatic, or you may have to activate it manually.
2.
Most individuals with hearing loss tend to hold the phone exactly where they did before they had hearing aids. However, the sound coming out of the telephone needs to be lined up with the hearing aid microphones, which can be located on the top of your hearing aid.
Cellphones
1.
Most hearing aids now have direct connectivity with cellphones. Some only connect with iPhones, while others connect with Androids. Depending on your hearing aid, you may need an intermediary device to connect to your phone.
2.
Use FaceTime or Skype to communicate with loved ones. Visual cues help your brain fill in the information that your ears may not hear. One free option that may help is CaptionCall, a special phone that captions the conversation and displays the text on a large screen for the listener to read. The program is funded by the Federal Communications Commission as part of the Americans With Disabilities Act. An audiologist is required to sign a certification form verifying that the individual has hearing loss. Otherwise, all that is necessary is an internet connection and a standard home phone connection. The CaptionCall organization will install the device in your home. There are also mobile CaptionCall options available for a cellphone or iPad. Communicating with loved ones who are far away can be an obstacle for many people with hearing loss, but the available options help reduce the stress of phone communications.
Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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EVERYDAY
Everyday Angels has been how much we appreciate that sharing community stories gift. Thank you to the teachers and needs for 17 years. During from Oak Grove who made sure this time, we have entered the that my other children had the world of some of the bravest, love and attention they needed yet broken, hearts and lives. when their mommy could not be We form a personal connection there for them. as people share their pain and “We want to thank the Makefears as we follow, pray for and A-Wish Foundation for providing encourage them. us with priceless memories However, sometimes the together. I can still hear her stories do not end as we hope laughter. I am thankful to Diem’s and pray. Last month’s story father, Dae, whose love for his of Diem Kwon, the 5-year-old children made co-parenting Clark Creek Elementary student easy. Finally, to my rock, my diagnosed with Glioblastoma, husband, Kyle Dutcher, who was one of those stories that insisted that I leave my job to remind us that God’s plans are care for Diem as he stepped up not always our plans. Between to make up the difference. He the time her story was written continues to hold me as I cry and and sent to print, her health reminds me to breathe through Top right, Diem, Sa’reon (her twin sister) with big brother Zavair. drastically changed as Diem’s my pain. It didn’t end as we had Above, Aloni with Diem. organs began to shut down. hoped and prayed, like so many Sweet Diem spent Christmas morning in the arms of Jesus, other innocent children who suffer from childhood cancers. This leaving her family and friends heartbroken. We were concerned journey was life-changing in many ways. It has opened my eyes that a story was in the January issue without the update. to the need of more cancer research for our children who have However, Aloni, Diem’s mom, assured us that the story would so much life ahead of them. Our children are worth more than 4 honor her sweet daughter and bring awareness to Glioblastoma percent of government research funding,” Aloni said. and the need for more childhood cancer research. As we begin 2018, Diem and the stories of so many others “We are trying to cope the best we know how. Every day is a remind us of what truly matters. We have been given this one life, new day – some better than others for all of us. Looking back, one opportunity, to make a positive difference. Make it your daily our hearts are full as we reflect upon all the love and support intention to choose LOVE and THANKSGIVING, taking nothing for our Diem and family received from our community. During granted while making it your mission to selflessly serve others. Diem’s short life, she touched so many people, and for that I am “USE YOUR GOD-GIVEN GIFTS TO SERVE OTHERS.” 1 Peter, 4:10 thankful. Her ‘tribe’ rallied around us all and was there for us until her last breath,” Aloni said. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since “There were so many of them that we had to relocate to 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit another room to accommodate everyone. We want to thank www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations everyone who joined us on this difficult journey. I must thank to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go my dear friend, Cory Patterson, who was there since the day of to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within Diem’s diagnosis; the Clark Creek Elementary counselors and your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to teachers who loved us through it all and made sure our van had aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification. heat as we traveled back and forth to radiation. I cannot tell you 36
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Winter Break
While the Cherokee County School District has designated Feb. 21-23 as inclement weather makeup days, here are some ideas to keep the kids entertained at the first of the week.
@ the Library Rose Creek
4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock / 770-591-1491
Feb. 22
Games Galore at 2 p.m. Bring your own board games to play, or play one that belongs to the library. All ages and games are welcome; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Woodstock
7735 Main St. / 770-926-5859
Feb. 23
Sing First at 10:30 a.m. These music and movement classes for children and their parents (divided into three sessions) are provided by music teacher Justine Lemmo. For ages 0-7; children must be accompanied by a participating adult. Crafternoon at 4:30 p.m. will feature knitting, continued from last month, with a focus on the purl stitch to make cozy hand warmers. For ages 9 and older; children aged 9 must be accompanied by an adult.
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Reader Colin has a blast with reading dog Zoey at the Rose Creek Public Library.
Hickory Flat
2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton / 770-345-7565
@ the YMCA
Feb. 20
Cherokee County YMCA
different manga series and related topics. This program will encourage reading and group discussion in a fun and innovative way. Refreshments are provided.
Feb. 19-23 at both Cherokee County branches. The focus is to provide a fun, safe environment for kids to explore new things, make new friends, and grow collectively and as individuals. Price is $31 each day for facility members, or $34 for nonmembers. www.ymcaatlanta.org/ymca-locations/ cherokee.
Manga Club at 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged to read and discuss
Feb. 22
Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Night at 6:30 p.m. There’s been a murder! Sherlock Holmes has been found dead, and it’s up to you to find out the whos, whats and wheres. Think you have what it takes to solve the mystery? Prizes will be awarded to the top sleuths. Refreshments will be provided. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Feb. 23-March 21
The Game Is Afoot. Ready to put your detective skills to the
School break camp for ages 5-12, daily 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
• At the Cecil Pruett Family YMCA
151 Waleska St., Canton, include: swimming, arts and crafts, nature hikes, playground, basketball/soccer/kickball, organic gardening, team-building games, and games and activities on the large field.
• At the Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA
ultimate test? Join the first interactive, multiplayer logic game. Grab your game board during Week 1 and then visit the library once a week to get a new clue. Using library and online resources, be the first person to solve the crime of the century. The game will end March 21 with a party for the players.
201 E. Bells Ferry Road, campers will enjoy: nature hikes, arts and crafts, building forts, playground time, basketball/ soccer/kickball, archery, field games, canoeing when a lifeguard is present, and a climbing tower when an instructor is present.
R.T. Jones
@ the Rec Center
116 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton / 770-479-3090
Feb. 19
How Slimy at 3 p.m. Make your own slime! In this STEAM program, mix, measure and stir to whip up slime to take home. For ages 9 and older; children aged 9 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Canton Eclectic Readers at 6 p.m. This month, the book club
for unconventional readers will be reading “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly. Meeting in the Georgia Room.
Cherokee Recreation and Parks
School break camps include daily fields trips, indoor gym games, outside play, arts and crafts, and movie time. For more information on these camps, call 770-924-7768 or email Frankie Sanders at fsanders@cherokeega.com. Activities also are available at the Aquatic Center. www.crpa.net/camps/school-break-camps.
Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m. Children age 6 and older can read to a
nonjudgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their own reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session.
Feb. 20
Drop-In Crafternoon at 3:30 p.m. Make and take home all the crafts you want. Get in touch with your creative side. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Feb. 24
Lego Club at 3 p.m. A different theme each month. Children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Canton residents Steven and Grace get creative during a recent Lego Club event. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Help Aging Parents Handle Their Finances BY CINDY NELSON
Children of aging parents become concerned when they notice their parents having trouble paying bills on time, or staying on top of their finances like they used to. When the late fees start piling up, it can really add up to a big issue. The threat becomes even greater if there are more serious underlying medical or psychological issues. Sometimes a parent will reach out to a loved one for help, but how do you step in? There are serious liability issues with just adding your name to a parent’s account. Check with your parents if they’ve added your siblings to their accounts because it can mean that money will bypass the will (and probate) when a parent passes. In that case, money would go to the co-owner on the account, causing a disruption of your parent’s intentions and lots of expensive fighting in court. A better way to help your parents is to get a durable power of attorney for finances, which gives you authority to help manage their affairs without actually being an owner on the accounts. There are four key steps in getting legal authority to help with your aging parents’ finances.
1.
Hold a meeting. Gather your family and speak with your parents about them granting authority to someone to help with their finances. If they currently aren’t comfortable giving the authority, a durable power of attorney with “springing powers” can be executed now and becomes effective when certain triggering events occur. Depending on your family dynamics, it may be a good idea to let siblings know of your parents’ intentions now so that fighting over it later doesn’t occur.
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
2.
Make it official. Once your parents agree to the process, legal documentation of the powers they are granting should be made clear through a durable power of attorney for finance, (DPOA). The DPOA should be witnessed and notarized by “noninterested parties,” which means don’t use spouses, children, grandchildren, siblings or people that could benefit from the document being improperly executed.
3.
Safekeeping. In Georgia, DPOAs are not required to be registered with the county when they are created, so it is important to offer a copy to the financial institutions that you may eventually have to interact with once the power of attorney is first executed. This can avoid detrimental delays if your parents become unable to manage their affairs and the financial institution gives you any pushback on your powers, or if the document becomes misplaced or damaged.
4.
Use the Authority. Once you have the powers granted to you, remember to sign as agent for them and not just your name (i.e. John Doe as agent for Mary Doe) to help avoid potential liability for yourself. In order to use the powers granted in the DPOA, the document has to be accepted by the financial entity. If you are having problems getting a bank or brokerage firm to accept your power of attorney, you may have a recourse under Georgia law. While a DPOA is only part of the puzzle, you’ll have peace of mind that you have legal authority to help them manage their finances.
Cindy Nelson is an Elder Care Law Attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 900-200, Woodstock, GA 30189, www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.
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10451 Bells Ferry Road Canton, GA 30114 AROUND CANTON | February 2018
41
Dermal Fillers vs. Traditional Facelifts BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
The fountain of youth may be just around the corner. Actually, the truth is that there have been tremendous advancements in non-invasive cosmetic procedures. All-natural dermal fillers have become more popular as their incredible benefits have become apparent. These products are made from natural elements found in the skin, elements that decline with age. Using these products as fillers produces a lasting positive benefit - stimulating skin to rejuvenate itself without having to go through the pain and long recovery of plastic surgery.
The Downfall of Traditional Facelifts
A traditional facelift requires a substantial investment of money and involves a long recovery period, usually about six weeks. There are risks associated with anesthesia and undergoing surgery. We have all seen the pictures of celebrity facelifts gone bad, and you always run the risk of becoming disfigured or scarred in some way. When done properly, a facelift can have great results, but there is considerable pain and recovery time.
The Benefits of Dermal Fillers
Natural dermal fillers are an excellent way to achieve a rejuvenated youthful appearance, with virtually no pain and
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
no downtime. In the aging process, skin loses elasticity and shape. The face begins to sag. Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm, are injectable gels made from hyaluronic acid, a hydrating substance that your body produces naturally. Injecting different types of these fillers under the skin immediately adds volume and reduces wrinkles and deep folds. Different types of fillers are formulated for each distinct purpose. Some add volume and contour to the cheeks, reducing lines and giving the face an overall lift. Others add volume to the lips and fill in the lines around the mouth. There also are fillers for deep lines such as the nasolabial folds or marionette lines (the downturned lines from the corner of your mouth to the jawline). The results are not only instant, but can be quite dramatic. Your face is the most visible part of you, and dermal fillers can help give you a more youthful and refreshed look.
James Haley, M.D. is a double board certified OB/GYN and urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.
Telltale Signs of Furnace Trouble BY DAN JAPE
Our furnaces have gotten quite a workout keeping us warm during the last few months of cold weather. Make sure to properly maintain your unit and watch for signs of trouble. The average lifespan of a furnace is 15 to 18 years, with some builder-grade furnaces failing is as few as 10 years. Even if your furnace is producing heat, there could be some problems lurking beneath the surface.
Rising Energy Costs Over time, your furnace will need to run longer just to produce standard comfort levels. Furnaces that have been in operation for more than 15 years start to suffer from this kind of problem. If you have maintained your furnace properly yet see continuous rises in energy bills, you are probably spending more money than is necessary.
Slipping Comfort Levels Furnaces that have reached their expiration date tend to slip on performance drastically: You may discover cool air blowing through your home during the winter. The furnace’s air cleaning and processing functions may have lost their use. If you’ve had your home performance audit and your furnace’s parts checked but your HVAC still can’t keep up with your demands, it’s likely time for full furnace replacement.
Carbon Monoxide Dangers Homeowners who are unaware of a broken carbon monoxide detector may have small amounts of the odorless, colorless gas leaking into their home. A study conducted in Michigan found one-quarter of carbon monoxide deaths were related to furnaces and other heating systems. Stuffy air, high levels of soot and black streaks near vents and a yellow flame (rather than a blue flame) are signs that carbon monoxide levels have become dangerously high.
Increase in Illnesses Family members exposed to higher levels of carbon monoxide will immediately get flu-like symptoms, headaches and a feeling of nausea. However, other illnesses may reflect a poorly functioning heating system. Extra dust in the air, as well as excessively dry conditions, hint at a furnace with a lackluster operation. In this situation, anyone suffering from respiratory issues or allergies will encounter a great deal of discomfort.
Dan Jape is the owner of Reliable Heating & Air. He can be reached at 770-594-9969. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
HICKORY FLAT
BALL GROUND
2740 East Cherokee Drive • 770-345-7565
435 Old Canton Road • 770-735-2025
Tuesdays
Feb. 10
of 1 to 3-year-olds. This is a time for children to learn about the storytime experience and encourage early literacy by including books, songs, rhymes and physical activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
write, but need some feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas and feedback are invited to attend.
Lap-Sit Storytime at 10:30 a.m., designed for the needs
Thursdays
Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. is designed for families
with children of all ages, and is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Inklings Writers Critique Group at 3 p.m. Love to
Feb. 12, 26
Bridge Club at 10:30 a.m. Beginners and experienced players are welcome to gather to play this globally popular card game. For ages 18 and older.
Feb. 7
Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. A dance party to remember. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
The Art of Feminine Presence and Women Energy Healing at 6 p.m. Presented by Adele Wang, this seminar
covers how to instantly increase your magnetic presence, how to attract better relationships, and how to avoid being drained by the energy of others. Registration required.
Feb. 12
Family Bingo Night at 6 p.m. Join the fun and win prizes. Refreshments are provided. For all ages; children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Feb. 17
Mom-Dad & Me Yoga at 10:30 a.m. Explore and enjoy fun
yoga stretches for parents and children. Registration required.
Feb. 20
Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m. Children 6 and older can read
to a non-judgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session.
Feb. 17
Lego Club at 3 p.m. A different theme each month. Children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Feb. 19
Ball Ground Book Club at 10:30 a.m. Join book club members as they discuss their impressions of “Icy Sparks” by Gwyn Hyman Rubio.
Feb. 20
Crocheting Club at 6 p.m. Joyce Jacobs will teach beginners how to crochet. Bring your needles and yarn for a fun-filled learning experience.
Feb. 27
DIY Book Bag Craft at 5 p.m. Teens can decorate
small book bags with fabric paints and pencil erasers, encouraging creativity and art appreciation.
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • 770-479-3090
Tuesdays
Tech Tuesday Have a question about how to use
something technical, such as checking your email from your phone? Sign up for a help session to answer your questions. If you have a question about your device, please bring it with you. Please know your password before attending. Registration required.
Feb. 13
Special Valentine storytime at 3:30 p.m. Read books, make
a special craft, play games and have yummy treats and frothy punch. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Feb. 14
Anti-Valentine’s Day Party at 6 p.m. Have you always
had a deep-rooted dislike for Valentine’s Day? Regardless for your reason for disliking the holiday, come by and celebrate everything anti-Valentine’s day. Single or taken, all are welcome.
Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. is designed for families with children of all ages, and is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Wednesdays
Lap-Sit Storytime at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. This is designed for the needs of 1 to 3-year-olds, and is a time for children to learn about the storytime experience and encourage early literacy by including books, songs, rhymes and physical activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Saturdays
Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. is designed for families
Feb. 15
Seedling Giveaway Day In celebration of Arbor Day, pick up a free seedling and information for planting and care.
with children of all ages, and is followed by a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
The Canton Morning Readers at 10 a.m. Meet in the Georgia Room. This month’s selection is “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly.
Through Feb. 28
Feb. 18
Take part in the exciting mystery that is going on a blind date with a book. Take home a book that may be just the right match for you. Blind date books will be on display during the month.
available for use within the library, as well as other research tools.
Blind Date with a Book. Fall in love with a new book.
Feb. 7
D.I.G. (Drop-In Genealogy) at 2 p.m. Ancestry.com is
Feb. 27
UGA Extension: Basic Vegetable Gardening and Seed Starting at 11 a.m. Josh Fuder from UGA Extension will
Intro to Virtual Reality at 5:30 p.m. Drop in and explore the basics of virtual reality. Librarians will walk guests through how to use a VR headset, VR controllers and set up guests on an immersive adventure to help develop skills.
discuss basic vegetable gardening and seed starting tips. Perfect for those who want to develop their green thumb or those who have always wanted to start a garden. For ages 18 and older.
Feb. 10
VR Experience: Notes on Blindness at 5:30 p.m.
Local Author Visit: David G. Tippens at 3 p.m., will
discuss his two pieces of historical fiction set during the Revolutionary War: “Two Bent Trees” and “Two Falling Waters,” followed by a book signing.
Feb. 11, 25
Inklings Writers Critique Group at 3 p.m. Love to
write, but need some feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas and feedback are invited to attend.
Feb. 28
Experience an immersive virtual reality feature. Notes On Blindness (Rated “E” for Everyone) is a journey into a world beyond sight. In 1983, after steady deterioration, John Hull became totally blind. To help him make sense of this change, he documented his experiences on audio cassette. These original diary recordings form the basis of this project, an interactive non-fiction using new forms of storytelling to explore his cognitive and emotional experience of blindness. For all ages; children 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Around & About CORNHOLE IS COMING TO CANTON! The seven-week league begins March 20, and includes a seasonending tournament for a championship trophy and other prizes. Qualifying teams can compete in a larger city championship. Games will begin at either 6:45, 7:30 or 8:15 p.m. in Cannon Park. For more details on signing up or forming a team, visit http://cornholeatl.com.
FEBRUARY
9
Introductions: Calling All Poets! 6:30-8 p.m. at the
Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St. Bring a poem that you have written, that best represents you. There are NO bad poems. Read your poem, listen to others and connect to help build a poetry group at the arts center. RSVP or get more information at info@ cherokeearts.org. 770-704-6244. www.cherokeearts.org
Marvin Lee presents “The Other Side’s 10 Comedian Playbook: Her Side, His Side & the Truth” 7-9 p.m. at the
Cherokee Arts Center. The show offers a 100 percent guarantee that you will learn something about your spouse that you never knew, no matter how long you’ve been together. Tickets: $25 for one, $40 for 2. 770-704-6244. www.cherokeearts.org
Day celebration. The Canton Tree Commision is 16 Arbor giving away seedlings with guidelines for planting, 9 a.m.-5
p.m. in Cannon Park. Master Gardeners will have a section of plants and shrubs for sale as well.
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“Stranger Than You Knew: The Universalists of Waleska and their Influence on the South” is a program presented by the Cherokee County Historical Society, set for 7 p.m. at the Rock Barn, 658 Marietta Highway in Canton. Local Historian and Reinhardt University professor Dr. Ken Wheeler will connect a small congregation in Waleska to a larger Southern religious landscape. The free program is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. www.rockbarn.org.
21 Audio Intersection) in Canton. Six authors will read
A Novel Idea meets 7-9 p.m. at East Main Cafe (inside
excerpts from their novels about love, from the classic happilyever-after to classic barriers to love. Featured authors are M.J. Pullen, “City of Yes;” Vonna Joseph, “Good Enough;” G.L. Moore, “Refusing to Fall;” Ricki Schultz, “Mr. Right-Swipe,” and Walt Mussell, “Samurai’s Heart.” This event is free and open to the public. Door prizes. BYOB.
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22 prostate cancer screening
Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute is offering a for men ages 45-75 at 5:30-8 p.m. at Northside Hospital Forsyth Cancer Center, 1100 Northside Forsyth Drive, Suite 140 in Cumming. The screening will determine the risk of developing prostate cancer. Free parking. Other qualifications are that men have not had prostate cancer before or an exam within the past year. Registration is required. Call 404-531-4444 to schedule an appointment.
& Hoses 5K will pit the Cherokee County Fire 24 Guns Department (Hoses) against the County Sheriff’s
Department (Guns) in a good-spirited fundraiser, hosted by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. Proceeds from the Hoses will go to Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, a nonprofit home serving young men in foster care. The Guns are competing for the Cherokee Sheriff’s Foundation, dedicated to helping local families. For details, contact Kate Borden at 770-924-7768 or kborden@ cherokeega.com. http://gunshoses5kandfunrun.blogspot.com/
Beauties and Beaus Mother-Son Bash, with a DJ playing
your favorite songs. Enjoy quality fun together with a candy bar buffet, cornhole, craft station, prizes, photo booth, snack bar and bounce house. Pre-register by visiting www.crpa.net. Price is $40 per couple, $10 per additional son. Contact Frankie Sanders, fsanders@cherokeega.com for more information.
MARCH March 13-April 17
Golf at the Park is an introductory golf program that focuses more
on movement than technical skill, meeting Tuesdays at Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway in Canton, in the grassy area by the playground. 5:30-6:30 p.m. K-second grade, 6:30-7:30 p.m. for grades 3-5. Instructor: Doug Friess of Big Tree Golf Academy. $70. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.
of Faith launch party Tis a drop-in planned 17 forBranches 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Blank Stage Acting Studio, Highway
92 in Woodstock. Guests can learn more about the new faithbased nonprofit created to hold community events with a focus on families, faith, fellowship and leadership. For details, contact Brandon Roberts at 678-232-7488 or brandon@branchesoffaith.org.
Cherokee Chorale’s Thanks For the Music Concert Series 18 presents “For Now and the Future,” at 3 p.m. at Canton
First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road, Canton. Featuring music of Dan Forrest, Conductor Scott Martin, Creekview High School is guest choir. www.cherokeechorale.org.
& Walk 9 a.m.-noon at Pawtriots Park, located in 24 Wag Patriots Park at 1485 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. A morning of a one-mile wag and walk, breakfast items for sale and doggy treat bags. $5 per dog, pre-registration required. 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.
Project Valentine
The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency is taking donations for Project Valentine through Feb. 10. Items requested include: chapstick, lotion, sticky notes, pens, markers, word searches, any art or music activities as well as candy (sugar free and regular) and any holiday related items. The items will be include in gift bags for the Cherokee Training Center and Eagle Point. Donations can be dropped off at the Recreation Center at 7545 Main St., Building 200 in Woodstock. Contact Lindsey Collett at 770-924-7768 or lcollett@cherokeega.com for more information.
Volunteer Aging Council Luncheons
Feb. 8
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Power Hour, 10-11 a.m. for fast-paced
networking with fellow business leaders, takes place in the chamber board room. $5 for members, $10 future members, payable at the door, no advanced registration required. Sponsor is Cobb EMC.
The $5 luncheons are fundraisers for programs that help the nonprofit meet the needs of less fortunate seniors and veterans in Cherokee County. Bring a friend, coworker, family member or yourself and enjoy a tasty lunch while supporting the seniors and veterans of Cherokee County. All luncheons will be held 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. For dine-in or take out. RSVP the location so the chefs have a head count.
Feb. 13
Feb. 16: Windsor House, 3333 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton March 16: The Lodge at BridgeMill, 10451 Bells Ferry Road, Canton April 20: Camellia Place, 294 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock May 18: Provident Village, 1100 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton June 15: Arbor at BridgeMill, 700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton July 20: Benton House, 3385 Trickum Road, Woodstock Aug. 17: Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake, 1962 Eagle Drive, Woodstock Sept. 21: Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton Oct. 19: The Oaks at Towne Lake, 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Nov. 16: Brookdale Neese, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock
March 1
Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. Presented by AT&T. Cost: members, $5; future members, $10. Registration due Feb. 9. Register online or email brandy@cherokeechamber.com.
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast: 7 a.m.
March sponsor is Edward Jones Investments, offices of Ned Castleberry and Kelly Geiken. Breakfast meetings offer current and future chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. Held at the Cherokee County Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton. Register by emailing gini@cherokeechamber.com or online at www.cherokeechamber.com.
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Appalachian Trail District scouts prepare to lay wreaths at the Georgia National Cemetery, a project that’s part of Wreaths Across America.
Scouting for Fun in Cherokee BY LEE SMATHERS
In 1910, the Boy Scouts of America was established as a way to encourage young men working in factories during the Industrial Revolution to get out and enjoy nature. They were given the opportunity to explore the woods, scavenge the fields and learn outdoor survival skills they could put to use for the rest of their lives. In Cherokee County, the Boy Scouts of America still is going strong and is a great place for young men to continue to explore, scavenge and learn. But, today, scouting offers much more than that. Beginning at the first grade level, Cub Scouts is the family’s first exposure to scouting. The program promotes family participation and encourages everyone to take part in developing an exciting environment, with lots of great activities. The annual Cub Scout Pinewood Derby will be held at Carriage Kia on Olde Rope Mill Park Road at 8:30 a.m., Feb. 10. Cub Adventure Quest, held Aug. 25 this year, is a day filled with shooting BB guns, bow and arrows, and more. This year’s theme is Let the Games Begin and will feature tons of Olympic-inspired games and activities. The Boy Scouts also are stepping things up a notch. In January, Troop 8880 from Canton went to Escalade Climbing for a climbing merit badge lock-in. On Feb. 24, Troop 241 in Canton is encouraging other troops to join them in taking the Polar Bear Plunge — walking into the lake in full uniform posting the American flag. Other troops 48
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in the area are busy with preparation hikes for attending multiple high-adventure camps across the country this year. In March, there will be a spring Camporee for all the troops from the Appalachian Trail District to join in celebration of scouting. Venturing is yet another scouting opportunity offered in this area, and is available to coed participants, ages 14-20. Venturing is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youths, adult leaders and organizations in their communities. Local community organizations establish a venturing crew by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program of exciting and meaningful activities that helps youths pursue their special interests, grow and develop leadership skills, and become good citizens. Venturing crews can specialize in a variety of vocation or hobby interests. Sea Scouts, a specialized segment of the venturing program, was organized to address members' boating skills and promote knowledge of our maritime heritage. Sea Scout units, called "ships," focus on sailing and cruising either sailboats or power vessels. Most ships hold formal meetings continued on page 60
Lee Smathers is district executive of the Appalachian Trail for the Atlanta Area Council of the Boys Scouts of America. 770-989-2885. www.atbsa.org.
Plug Into The Circuit
Brett Waits, founder and CEO of Plae and Plae Hard
The Lunch Circuit 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 14 The Circuit, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 30188 770-345-0600 Tickets available at http://circuitwoodstock.com/ or the event page at www.facebook.com/circuitwoodstock/.
The Lunch Circuit is a monthly exclusive gathering where aspiring and current entrepreneurs can meet to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee County entrepreneurs. The event is powered by Fresh Start Cherokee, hosted by Cherokee Office of Economic Development and held at The Circuit Woodstock, 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 30188. February’s featured entrepreneur is Brett Waits, founder and CEO of Plae and Plae Hard, headquartered in downtown Woodstock. Get the full story behind Waits’ unique company and gain behind-the-scenes access to his entrepreneurial journey. The Lunch Circuit is held in The Circuit office, the restored former Woodstock Elementary School on the Chattahoochee Technical College campus. The 3,000-squarefoot innovation space is a gathering place for students, burgeoning and established businesses to meet, consult, advise and explore new opportunities. For more information, visit www.circuitwoodstock.com.
The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
Meeting Feb. 23, Topic TBA For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available
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Travel Resources
The Okefenokee Swamp is one of “Georgia’s 35 Natural Wonders” I am documenting over the next two years. Spring and fall are great times to visit!
Accommodations
Ted & Alease’s delightful B&B, the Inn at Folkston, is a welcome oasis in southeast Georgia. Amazing homemade breakfasts.
Guided Tours
Okefenokee Adventures offers guided kayak tours and boat rides. Book overnight excursions into the swamp. They supply the guide, the kayaks, all the meals and camping supplies.
Birthday in the Swamp BY ANN LITREL
I’ve told the story of my 50th birthday, when my sister Jane booked us a five-day trip in March to Nebraska, where we sat in a duck blind before dawn in sub-freezing temperatures, to witness one of the 10 Great Animal Migrations of the world – 400,000 great sandhill cranes migrating north to their winter breeding grounds in the Arctic. We watched as great clouds of birds with 6-foot wingspans circled the sky, dawn and sunset, over their nighttime roosting site in the shallows of the Platte River. As they called to one another, the sounds of their voices filled the sky. I’ll admit, it was spectacular. And cold. So, for Jane’s birthday this past November, I wanted to measure up with a comparable getaway. For sheer one-upmanship, I liked the sound of a swamp trip. Specifically, Okefenokee Swamp — the largest freshwater swamp east of the Mississippi, located in the middle of nowhere in South Georgia. I figured there was no way to top the spectacle of a great animal migration. I was hoping for alligators (and not too many mosquitos). I booked us a guided, three-day kayak trip, during which we would ferry our supplies in our boats, and camp each night on platforms raised above the swamp waters. As it turned out, there were alligators. Every hour. Everywhere. But there were also surprises. Our guide, Sheila, was a piece of living history – a selfproclaimed “Swamper,” whose family had lived in the trackless swamp going back almost 200 years. Sixty years old, she is a member of perhaps the last generation to know so many of the old 50
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Sheila, self-proclaimed "Swamper" and Okefenokee guide.
settler stories, a trove of tales she shared with us about life in the swamp as it once was. As she led our kayaks through the maze of water trails, she often stopped us to point out countless strange bird calls, and name the source of each. In one instance, she pulled up to a hummock of ground where she stripped some leaves from a bush, wetted and crushed them, and showed us “poor man’s soap,” lathering in her hands. As for the alligators: One woke us with a huge bellow somewhere just beside our platform at dawn the first morning. And, as Jane and I paddled through a narrow channel the second afternoon, a big 12-footer slid from the grasses into the water just in front of our kayak. Jane and I froze — and then strained to stop our kayak. We knew he must be in the water just ahead of us. We called anxiously to Sheila behind us. Nonchalantly, she paddled up, glanced at the teatinted shallows, and said, “Looks like he has enough room down there to stay out of your way. Go ahead.” The real Okefenokee was not at all what I had pictured. There were moss-draped trees and dark waters, but there were also wide prairies, mirrors of glass-like water covered with pools of blooming water lilies under the sun. Great shining white continued on page 60
Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.
FAITH
There’s No Need to Fake Your Faith BY DR. JOE MCKECHNIE
Grantland Rice was arguably the most respected sportswriter in an era of good sportswriters. He was known for his poetic prose and vivid imagery. He wrote “For when the One Great Scorer comes / To mark against your name / He writes – not that you won or lost – But how you played the Game.” He’s the one who used the term four horsemen, which is from the Bible, to describe the Notre Dame backfield. But there was a point early in his career when he nearly lost his credibility. In 1904, Grantland Rice was working as a columnist for the Atlanta Journal. He received a letter in the mail. It was signed by a baseball fan in Augusta, who was singing the praises of a young baseball phenom who played for the Augusta minor-league team. He got a lot of letters like that, but as quickly as that one was forgotten, another letter came in about the same baseball player. This time it was from a fan in Anniston, Ala. It seems this player played on two different teams – one a Southeastern League team, and the other a South Atlantic League team. Other letters started coming in, describing this amazing young minor-league player. And after getting so many letters, Rice spoke of this young player in one of his columns - “A new wonder has arrived in baseball – a darling of the fans.” He took a trip to Augusta to meet this young player. But when he got there, he was shocked to learn that this player, who was raved about in fan letters, was nothing more than a scrawny boy with a low batting average and only one stolen base. You see, all of those letters written to the Atlanta Journal were actually written by the player himself, using an array of fictitious names. Rice felt humiliated for heralding this young player. But the next season, the player had a great season, and he would go on to have many more. You see, this minor-league player, with a fan base of one, was Ty Cobb. He faked it to make it look like he had all of these fans singing his praises. I share this because so many times we, as followers of Christ, might be faking it. I’m not talking about tough seasons in which our faith is tested. I’m not talking about times in which we feel lost or alone. Rather, I’m talking about times in which we would claim to be a believer, but we aren’t really focused on our faith. We make such little room for our faith that it becomes like a back tire – we don’t notice it until we have an emergency. John 10:10 tells us that the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy, whereas Christ declares that he has come so that we may have “life to the fullest!” How are you living life to the fullest with Jesus? Are you?
Dr. Joe McKechnie is the senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist Church, and a member of the Around Canton community board. Email him at joe@sixesumc.org.
You have so much ... they have so little
Donations needed now
Financial donations New socks and Underwear · Blankets Canned meat
www.mustministries.org 1407 Cobb Parkway N. Marietta, GA 30061
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Supporting Children When They Need It Most BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
“You are loved ... always.” This beautiful, hand-painted sign is the first thing you see when you walk through the doors of The Children’s Haven in Canton. While interviewing the executive director, Deidre Hollands, I learned this message is behind everything done for the children The Children’s Haven (THC) serves — those plunged into the foster care system. “The children and families that come before us do so at the worst possible moments in their lives. As we strive to protect children and find safe and permanent homes, we need the assistance of concerned members of the community,” said John B. Sumner, chief Juvenile Court judge. The mission at TCH is simple: to promote the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse and neglect. The staff and volunteers are fully committed to building successful children by providing comprehensive abuse prevention and treatment programs in four ways.
Prevention
TCH is working with Prevent Child Abuse Georgia to develop innovative prevention programs using research-based models that prevent primary abuse, like home visitation for newborns and a 1-800-CHILDREN helpline for anyone concerned about a child.
Safety
The supervised WellStar Family Visitation Center offers a home-like environment for children to visit with parents, siblings and extended family while they are separated by child welfare involvement. The area includes a kitchen, a living room and playroom filled with toys for kids of all ages. The viewing area is inconspicuous, behind one-way glass, and equipped with adequate video monitors to keep all involved safe, yet comfortable and at ease.
Advocacy
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) provide focused child advocacy so that no child lingers in the foster care system without the security of a safe, nurturing and permanent family. Advocates work with parents to access services they need to stabilize their lives and improve their parenting skills so that their family can be reunited. When reunification is not appropriate, advocates quickly help to find relatives or adoptive parents who can provide a permanent and stable home.
Support
Children need compassion and guidance to prevent the trauma of abuse and out-of-home placement from defining their lives through later destructive choices. Supportive enrichment opportunities improve a child’s social, emotional and educational functioning. “It was hard to make the decision to become a CASA advocate,” said Olga E. Phillips, a CASA since 2009. “My main fear, as is the fear of all of us who volunteer, was to become so emotionally involved with the children I would be serving that I would want to adopt them all and fail at being practical on my recommendations to the court. As it turns out, no matter how much I would want to take these children home with me, they all want their own parents.” 52
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The Children's Haven in Canton.
Success Stories
• A four-month-old boy went into foster care after his mother was arrested on drug charges. His father expressed an interest in gaining custody, but Family Services needed to be sure he was a fit parent. The father was referred to TCH and started visiting his son under the watchful eye of staff members at the WellStar Family Visitation Center. The father demonstrated his ability to appropriately care for his son. Father and son were brought together. • A teen girl was acting out and running away. It took the advocate months of visits before enough trust was built for the girl to feel safe enough share what was really happening: sexual abuse by the grandmother’s boyfriend. She was removed from that horrible environment, and has been adopted into a loving family, is thriving in high school, is and captain of the cheerleading squad. Phillips sums it up best: “If you were wondering if taking a few hours out of your week to advocate for a child in foster care can really make a difference, now you know. Yes, it does. You can change a child’s life. Is there a better job than that?” If you are interested in volunteering or training to be a CASA, contact The Children’s Haven at 770-345-3274 or info@casacherokee.org. Donations needed include: pajamas, socks and underwear (check the website for monthly drives), as well as monetary donations. Another fun way to support TCH is to run in their Superhero 5K at 8 a.m. May 12 at Etowah River Park. Runners can register at Active.com. For more information, visit: www.cherokeechildrenshaven.org.
Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.
Misty Wright, Nursing Simulator faculty member, and the Rev. Dr. C.R. Hill.
Dr. Jack Cauble, Reinhardt President Dr. Kina S. The Rev. Dr. C.R. Hill and Sierra Armstrong. Mallard, and Sally Forest (Dr. Cauble’s daughter).
Rachel Gondek accepts her coat during the inaugural White Coat Ceremony at Reinhardt University. Photo by Jeff Reed.
Nursing faculty member Shea McCarty and Rick Atkinson Jr.
Celebrating a New Era
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM
Congratulations to the 27 future nurses who were inducted into the Cauble School of Nursing and Health Sciences Jan. 7 during the inaugural White Coat Ceremony held in Flint Hall at Falany Performing Arts Center on Reinhardt University’s campus. Cauble School of Nursing and Health Sciences founding dean Dr. Glynis Blackard, thanked those who were involved in the creation of the program and to the students and families who supported one another during an arduous process. “Even though you are a student-nurse, this coat is symbolic of what it means to be a nurse. As you don this coat, I am hopeful you accept the responsibility that comes with this article of clothing. I hope you accept it with humility,” Blackard said.
Nursing Faculty Shea McCarty and Jocelyn Blair.
Tim Norton, vice president for Advancement and Marketing at Reinhardt.
Rev. Dr. Hill, Misty Wright and Adriana Herrera. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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YOUR SCHOOL NEWS A Scholarship to The Citadel Navy JROTC Commanding Officer Katlyn Deveau has been awarded a Marine Corps Scholarship to The Citadel worth approximately $183,000. The Citadel, also known as The Military College of South Carolina, is one of six senior military colleges in the United States. Students, who are known as Cadets, undergo four years of ROTC training in a branch of the armed services. Approximately 30 percent of Cadets graduate as commissioned officers. Katlyn Deveau. Coach James Miller (white shirt) on the sidelines with his team.
Reinhardt’s Football Coach Commits to Three More Years After leading the No. 2 Reinhardt Eagles to a recordbreaking season and a national runner-up finish in the 2017 NAIA Football National Championship, firstyear head football coach James Miller has reached an agreement on a three-year extension, Director of Athletics Bill Popp announced. “With the success after his first year as a head coach, we really wanted to take this opportunity to extend Coach Miller so he can continue to grow this program in the positive direction that he took it this year,” Popp said. “This extension provides continuity to the program, allows us to retain our staff, and lets our current players and future recruits know that our coaches will be here to continue on the successful path that has been laid.” “His passion for the game is second-to-none; he just loves coaching football and the kids look up to him – they love him – and they respond well to him. Couple that with the way he handles his staff, it was a very easy decision for us to extend Coach Miller to lead Reinhardt Football into the future.” A former college football player at Virginia Tech (2000-2004), Miller has been with Reinhardt since 2014. He also served as the program’s recruiting coordinator, as well as assistant coach in charge of the offensive line. For up-to-the-minute Eagles sports news, follow Reinhardt Athletics on Facebook (@ ReinhardtAthletics), Twitter (@RU_Eagles) and Instagram (@ru_eagles). 54
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Hot Rodders Zoom Into Third in State Sequoyah High School’s Hot Rodders team recently competed in the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Dual National Championship in Las Vegas. The team earned $10,000 in scholarships and now is ranked third in the state and 25th in the country. For the competition, the eight-member team deconstructed a V-8 engine and reassembled it to manufacturer’s specifications. Groups were timed on how quickly they disassembled and reassembled the engine, and were scored on speed and accuracy.
Front row, from left: Auto tech instructor and team coach, Chuck Wilson, Spenser Mann, Gaven Reamy and Kacey Hearn; second row: Thomas Warren and Chaz Johnston; back row: volunteer coach Ron Shultheis, Jason Kissoon, Adam Edwards and Jacob Allred.
Making a Change in Our Community Members of Knox Elementary School’s Make A Change Club recently created snowman socks as gifts for the young ladies residing at North Georgia Angel House in Canton. The club promotes making a change in our community by sponsoring and participating in events to make a difference in the lives of others while developing into compassionate citizens.
Members of Make a Change Club, Allyson Whyte, Lillian Esposito, Samantha Landfried, Chesney Wise, Gianna DiPerro, Alee Ray, Jack Lorenz, Hailey Hurst, Marissa Klein, McKayla Boling, Sam Stegos, Kayson Simmons, Anna Weitzenkorn and Morgan Moon, Ruby Arthur, Amelia Buhl, Elliana Mathews, Lydia Johnson, Breanna Miller, Kami Bell, Alexis Champion, Hunter Gould, Jayden Hochman, Rachel Sapp, Skylar LoPresti, Nyah Eberhardt, Elsa Siegrist, Taylor Rehberg, Kailen Martin and Alexa Sobczak.
Summer Feeding Program Needs Volunteers The school district’s School Nutrition Program is seeking potential new partners for its annual Summer Feeding Program. Local nonprofit organizations, churches, summer camps and other groups that serve Cherokee County children in need are invited to learn more at a meeting 2 p.m. Feb. 28 at the School Nutrition Office, 135 Mountain Brook Court, Canton. Contact 770-721-8419 for more information.
High School Heisman State Finalist Sequoyah High School senior Alyssa Cagle recently was recognized by Wendy’s as a High School Heisman State Finalist. Since 1994, Wendy’s and the Heisman Trophy Trust have honored the nation’s top studentathletes for “giving back to their communities, treating people with respect, being outstanding students in the classroom, and for excelling in athletics.” Cagle, a basketball player, was presented with a Wendy’s High School Heisman State Finalist medallion, letter jacket patch, yard sign, $25 gift certificate, lapel pin, a copy of Dave Thomas’s book, “Dave’s Way” and a bouquet of roses. Alyssa Cagle was honored with a dinner in her honor at the Wendy’s in Hickory Flat. AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Tour of the Southern Highlands
Woodstock welcomes cycling event back for the second year. and fast, straight, with a few 90 degree and 180 degree turns. Best The Tour of the Southern viewing will be in front of Arnold Highlands cycling stage race is Mill Elementary School, with an returning to the area this year. awards ceremony at the finish line. The weekend’s events will kick off Sunday’s High Country Road downtown March 2. Race consists of counter-clockwise The men’s and women’s pro laps around a 15-mile circuit. criterium prologue race will take The course starts and finishes place on a .8-mile course starting on Valley Street in front of Ball at Market Street, going clockwise Ground Elementary School. The taking a right on Hickory Street, a Stage 3 Road Race begins at 8:30 right on Paden Street, and a right a.m., with up to three fields on on Mill Street to return to Market the course at any one time. The Street. road course is glorious scenery of The public is invited to an infield rolling, pastoral terrain, and it is race watch party on the Elm Street epic, sporting short, challenging Event Green, where spectators climbs to separate the field, before will get a perfect view of all the the long, flowing downhills give it action. There will be Reformation a chance to come back together. Brewery craft beer, food trucks, Best spectator viewing on cornhole and more. This night also On the winner’s stand are, from left: Lauren Hall, Ruth the course will be at or near the Winder and Kate Buss. is the kickoff of the 2018 Friday corner of Valley Street and Beck Night Live season, so there will be a great atmosphere in Street, where Ball Ground City Hall sits by the Botanical downtown Woodstock to welcome competitors and their Gardens. There will be an awards ceremony and closing families. festival with food and activities following the men’s race. On Saturday, amateurs will join the action with the Merckx continued on page 60 Time Trial, beginning and ending at Arnold Mill Elementary School. The race consists of clockwise laps around a 5.3mile circuit. There will be one lap for Stage 1, Merckx TT, Stacy Brown is the marketing and tourism coordinator and multiple laps, dependent on category or class, for the for the City of Woodstock. She can be reached at circuit race. Competitors will go off at 30-second intervals, sbrown@woodstockga.gov. beginning at 7:30 a.m., for a 2-mile out and back of fast, flat BY STACY BROWN
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Elm Street
Play Like a Kid BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW
Have you ever wished you could be a kid again? To not have to work all the time and just play? Kids have it easy, don’t they? Not always. Over the years, there has been an increase in student work from schools and pressure to succeed in testing. This has resulted in children studying so much that they do not have time to play and be a kid, except for holiday breaks. When I was little, I used to play with dolls and toys, taking them on crazy adventures full of magic and mystery. I would play outside with my brothers and their friends, exploring woods and riding bikes down steep hills. I miss those days, but now, I’m blessed to play “house” with my almost 5-year-old daughter. I feel lucky sometimes. I work in a field that challenges my creativity every day and allows children to do the same. I had the chance to play when I was younger and I can still play When we now. Not many individuals get play, we these opportunities or have the courage to express themselves, are more and I wish they could. open to all Our February musical, “School of Rock,” delves into the topic of possibilities. children working and studying so much that they don’t get a chance to be themselves. Their parents are constantly pressuring them to be “good students” and pay a lot of money for them to go to a prestigious private school. Dewey Finn, a fake substitute teacher/rock enthusiast, discovers the students’ true talents and encourages them to help him create a rock band. He also encourages them to believe in themselves, have courage, and that play can be just as important as work. Albert Einstein stated, “Play is the highest form of research.” Brainstorming, which can be an enjoyable and highly productive form of play, is among the best creative activities. When we play, we are more open to all possibilities. Assumptions about our limitations disappear. You don’t have to be a child to still play. Whether you have kids or not, I encourage you to join us, Feb. 1-4, to see “School of Rock.” The message behind this show is clear: it’s never too late to believe in your potential. It’s performed by our SPOTLIGHT cast, ages 10-18, and they have proven to be a talented bunch of students who like to play.
DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK
MAR 2 - 11 FRI/SAT AT 7:30PM SUN AT 2:00PM Presenting Partner:
Call or visit us on the web to learn about our
SUMMER CAMPS Registration Opens March 1st
Siobhan Brumbelow is on staff at Elm Street. She currently holds a BA in Theatre from Brenau University and toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre.
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Rd, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest Baptist Church 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org
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New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell
770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org
ORTHODOX
St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
ROMAN CATHOLIC Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com
UNITED METHODIST
Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org
www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com
Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com
CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Rd. Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org
OTHERS
Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road Canton, GA 30115 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193
BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572 www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170
www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main Street, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Kids and Boxes, A Match Made in Heaven
Scouting for Fun in Cherokee
When I was 11 years old, a giant box once became my favorite toy for weeks. It was a spaceship with a round window, rocket fins, the whole works. I can’t say I actually went into space and made new discoveries, but I felt like I had. To quote Mark Twain: “He felt much as an astronomer feels who has discovered a new planet − no doubt, as far as strong, deep, unalloyed pleasure is concerned, the advantage was with the boy, not the astronomer.”
conducted in either full dress or work uniforms. Swimming, lifesaving, first aid, Coast Guard Auxiliary Sailing and Seamanship, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses are taught by the ship’s own officers. For more information about the Sea Scouts, including how to join or start a Sea Scout ship in your area, please visit SeaScoutsAtlanta.org. The Appalachian Trail District encompasses Cherokee and Pickens counties. There are 64 units in the district, including packs, troops, crews and ships, with more than 2,200 youths. To learn where a unit meets in your area, go to www.atlantabsa.org and select the JOIN SCOUTING drop down tab. There, you can select the type of unit you’re interested in. You also can call 770-988-8820.
continued from page 28
Fear Must Not Inhibit a Financial Strategy continued from page 29
Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note: Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - zacksim.com/heres-investors-underperform-market/ [5/22/17]
Tour of the Southern Highlands continued from page 56
The ToSH is a three-day professional and two-day amateur cycling stage race. It’s a USA Cycling-sanctioned Pro/Am, with a full schedule, as well as a USA Junior National Team selection race. It’s the only United States Junior National Team selection race east of the Rocky Mountains. Participants and their families travel from as far as California to compete. “Downtown Woodstock is happy to have Tour of the Southern Highlands back this year,” Tourism Manager Kyle Bennett said. “The restaurants and shops are delighted to welcome competitors and spectators, alongside Friday Night Live eventgoers, with great sales and specials, and a fantastic atmosphere.” Positioned at the beginning of March, The ToSH attracts some of the top athletes in the sport and serves as perfect preparation for more racing throughout the region and across the country. Go to visitwoodstockga.com/tosh or visit www.toshsr.com for more information. 60
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
continued from page 48
Birthday in the Swamp continued from page 50
egrets perched in watch tower trees above the water, and the healthy waters were alive with fish and turtles and frogs. At sunset the final night, like an unexpected benediction, we heard the strangely familiar bird cries across the swamp from our platform. Sheila pulled out her binoculars to let us look, and there, heads and necks bobbing above the marsh grasses, were four sandhill cranes, settling down for their evening roost in the water. For Jane’s birthday, nature had graced us once again – so we could see the sandhill cranes, 1,000 miles from Nebraska, for another birthday celebration.
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com
February 2018
ACCOUNTING/FINANCIAL SERVICES
CLEANING SERVICES
Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707
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Cynthia Cline, CPA 404-748-1082
25
Jeffrey L. Jackson, CPA 678-919-1250 www.jjacksoncpa.com
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BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com
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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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ATTORNEYS
Tidwell Strimban 678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
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AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906 Cherokee Auto Spa 770-704-0499 www.CherokeeAutoSpa.com
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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Downtown Buzz 770-592-6056 www.mainstreetwoodstock.org/ connect/#buzz
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AROUND CANTON | February 2018
Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org
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(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric) Canton Dental Town 770-627-7260 www.dentaltownsmiles.com
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Dentistry at Hickory Flat 770-213-8166 www.HickoryFlatDentist.com
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Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 43 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 37
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Salon & Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com
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Wake-Up Made-Up & Electrolysis by Vanessa 678-445-5000 Anytime Fitness Hickory Flat:770-345-4387 Holly Springs: 770-720-1831 Sixes Road: 770-720-2057 Riverstone: 678-880-1776 www.AnytimeFitness.com
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19
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HOME & GARDEN Albritton Construction 678-907-4931 Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
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ClearView Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing 43 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com Diaz Painting & Home Improvements 678-920-7880
EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION
Goddard School, The (Prominence Point)
Massage Envy 770-974-0880 www.MassageEnvy.com
HEALTH & FITNESS
Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
Williams Orthodontics Canton: 770-345-4155 Woodstock: 770-592-5554 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com
HAIR SALON, SPA & BEAUTY
Vintage Jacks 770-224-6370
DENTAL
Cherokee Charter Academy Cover, 32,33 678-385-7322 www.cherokeecharter.org
CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
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CREDIT UNION
LGE Community Credit Union www.LGEccu.org
ANIMALS/PETS
Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com
Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743
770-720-3003 www.GoddardSchool.com
L. Bean Interiors 770-824-8386 Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com
1 21 5
Mr. Junk 678-675-8651 www.mrjunk1.com
25
Outdoor Living 706-301-5698 www.myenclosedporch.com
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Red Oak Custom Homes & Renovations Inside front 678-718-5185 www.RedOakFineHomes.com Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com
Back cover
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.AtlantaGynOnc.com Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com
9
Medical Assoc. of North Georgia 770-479-5535 www.MedAssoc.com
Northside Hospital Cherokee www.northsidecherokee.com
11
Plastic Surgery Center of the South 29 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net WellStar Health System www.wellstar.org/Mayo 770-956-7827
REAL ESTATE Atlanta Communities Real Estate
North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 13 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com
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Tara Daigle, Realtor 404-925-6351 Magnolia Cottages by the Sea
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www.magnoliadreamcottage.com RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT Elm St. Cultural Arts Village
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678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org Guns and Hoses 5K
25
770-924-7768 http://gunshoses5kandfunrun.blogspot.com
PHOTOGRAPHY Darleen Prem Photography 770-354-0675 www.DarleenPrem.com
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Rebekah Gregg Photography 25 678-637-7518 www.rebekahgreggphotography.com
Historic Downtown Canton
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www.DowtownCantonGA.com SENIOR LIVING Lodge at BridgeMill, The
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770-479-4639 www.TheLodgeAtBridgeMill.com
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
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At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information. Photos by J King Images
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Around Canton
Distribution Map Circulation: 25,000 64
AROUND CANTON | February 2018
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