2-21 TowneLaker Webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Contents

Contributors

February 2021

30 Don Akridge

28 Lauren Bolden

Scrappy’s Junk Removal

36 Stacy Brown

58 Charlice Byrd

41 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

On the Cover

Scrappy's team members, on the cover, are Zachary Erwin, Michael Smith, Jillian and Brendan Salters, son James Salters and Scrappy Doo, the Salters' inspirational pup and company's namesake.

20 Jessica Gordy

6 2, 64 Barbara P. Jacoby

48 Harry Johnston 70 Ann Litrel

Pages 44 & 45

40 Rob Macmillan

Cover photo provided by Abigail Peyton

18 Margaret Miller 52 Deidre Parker 56 Susan Schulz

79 Justin Spainhour-Roth 46 Elisabeth Stubbs

54 Dr. Mary Swantek 69 Jason Wilson

In Every Issue

4 Around Towne 8 Local News

14 Noteworthy

38 Celebrations

40 Rob’s Rescues

Black History Month

A collection of articles reflecting on the contributions of our ancestors, and honoring those still working to make a difference, like Chuck McGhee, top right.

Pie, Oh My!

Leaving no crust unturned (or uneaten), we have delicious pie recipes and expert baking tips.

Get the Scoop on Love

Our youngest readers give advice and tell us their thoughts on what Valentine’s Day is all about. 2

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

50 County Commision Highlights 66 Everyday Angels

68 Towne Lake Dining Guide 72 Community Calendar 73 Library Events 74 Photo Club

76 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 78 Greenprints Trail Map 80 Churches

82 Clubs & Orgs

84 Recent Home Sales

86 Directory of Advertisers

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Around Towne

Voting begins March 1!

Letter From the Editor

It may come as no surprise that this February issue is filled with love. After all, you know we love (there I go again!) themes, and this is the month to celebrate Valentine’s Day. However, there are more subtle references to love that you’ll see in these pages. Yes, we do have a cute feature with the youngest members of our community sharing their views of Valentine’s Day (Page 32) and a mouth-watering collection of pie recipes, in honor of Great American Pie Month starting on Page 24. With baking tips from everyone’s favorite Goddess of Pie, Lauren Bolden, your family and friends will be so happy with your mad piebaking skills! Yet, there are other less tangible ways that love is expressed throughout our county. That’s something I hope you can see in each issue of the TowneLaker - not just February - even if you have to squint hard to read between the lines. February is Black History Month, a time we pay tribute to those who loved their fellow man and their county enough to make advancements and help others. Chuck McGhee gives back year after year through the golf fundraiser he hosts to raise scholarship money to help Black youth attend college. (Page 18) The idea to celebrate Black History Month began in 1915 by historian Carter G. Woodston and other prominent African American figures of his day. Read more at www.history.com. And to learn more about our African American ancestors, and their achievements in Cherokee County, see Pages 18-23. We’re grateful to Stefanie Joyner and her staff at History Cherokee for sharing such an important part of our county’s history. It’s clear that Diane and Glenn Keen have tremendous love for parents and their children with unique needs, including their son Haden. The Keens founded Circle of Friends, a community that creates connection and purpose for individuals with disabilities. Read about their nonprofit on Page 56, and be sure to visit the new Circuit Cafe at The Circuit in Woodstock, staffed by the Circle of Friends. Now that you’re feeling all lovey-dovey, here is your February challenge. Remember our mission to share kindness? This works well during the Month of Love.

Kindness Challenge of the Month

More information on Page 8.

What’s New

The Quincy apartments have opened at 900 Buice Lake Parkway, Acworth. The campus features new one-, two- and three-bedroom homes. For more information, call 678-538-6929 or visit www.livethequincy.com. At press time, Kinsey CPA hoped to be open by the first week of February at 1025 Rose Creek Drive. Kinsey CPA provides tax preparation and planning services to businesses and individuals, business consulting, IRS problem resolution, and accounting and payroll services. 770-932-8989 or online at www.KinseyCPA.com.

Welcome to ALM!

JianKang Spa

67210 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 108, Woodstock 30189 http://jiankangmassage.com

Gyro Aegean Grill

180 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 30189 https://GyroAegeanGrill.com

Good Faith Health Insurance

P.O. Box 2400, Acworth 30102 www.goodfaithhealthinsurance.com

The Reserve At Towne Lake

1962 Eagle Drive, Woodstock 30189 www.reservetownelake.com

Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting

Bake and Take. Bake a pie (duh!), cookies, brownies, treats, etc. for a neighbor, elderly person, the local fire or police station. Be sure to wear a mask and gloves while you’re baking, and call ahead to make sure treats from an outside source are welcome.

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

The Innovation Spot

233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 300, Woodstock 30188 770-262-3668 www.theinnovationspot.com

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

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

Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker

Our Mission

Helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers.

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ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com

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TowneLakerMagazine @Townelaker townelakermagazine

www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | February 2021

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,500 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 900 are placed in racks around the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker 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 2021. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 25, Issue 10

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Local News County Employees Earn Parks and Recreation Credentials Six Cherokee Recreation and Parks employees recently earned their Certified Parks and Recreation Professional credentials, a national standard for parks and recreation professionals. Athletics Coordinator Camille Thomas, Parks Division Director Jordan Wood, Recreation Division Director Frankie Sanders, Athletics Division Director Shawn Schumacher, Aquatics Director Kim Whatley and Parks Manager Stephen Shrout completed the rigorous program, and passed the 125-question exam that assesses the core knowledge of job-related tasks. “I challenged our recreation and parks leadership team to pursue certification, and we now have 100% of our leadership team, plus several more, who have achieved this goal,” said Cherokee Recreation and Parks Director Jay Worley. “I am proud that each of them has joined myself and Bryan (Reynolds, Community Services Agency director) in the ranks of being certified professionals. Being in a leadership role in our community, it is important for us to show our citizens that we are committed to the highest level of professionalism and service.” Attaining the designation shows that those individuals have met education and experience qualifications, and have shown commitment to the profession, as well as the knowledge and understanding of key concepts within the field. The certification process is coordinated through the National Recreation and Parks Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of public parks and recreational opportunities.

It’s Almost Time for Readers’ Choice 2021 Aroundabout Local Media’s annual Readers’ Choice always is a great time to show support for your favorite local businesses. However, now, more than ever, we want to thank those business owners who operate restaurants where we can grab a delicious meal (or pick up curbside), service centers that keep our cars in tune, individuals who help educate our children and care for our pets, and medical facilities who’ve faced an inordinate number of challenges over the past year. Polling opens at 9 a.m. March 1, and ends at 5 p.m. March 31. Visit www.townelaker.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.

Make sure your vote counts by following these guidelines.

1. Spell the business name correctly. 2. Include the address, including ZIP code, of the business you are nominating. 3. Make sure you vote for a business in the 30189 ZIP code. 4. 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. 5. No more than five votes per category will be accepted from each IP address.

Cherokee Recreation and Parks employees pictured, bottom row, from left: Jay Worley, Camille Thomas, Jordan Wood, Frankie Sanders, Shawn Schumacher and Bryan Reynolds. Top row, from left: Steve Pressley, advisory board member; Jason Nelms, advisory board chairman; Mark Preetorius, advisory board member; and Terry Meier, advisory board member. Stephen Shrout and Kim Whatley are not pictured. 8

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Let’s keep the focus of Readers’ Choice on local small businesses and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit. Winners will be announced in the May issue. Businesses will not be notified ahead of time. Everyone will find out at the same time. Happy voting!

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Local News

From left, Fire Chief Tim Prather, Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson and Field Operations Chief Shane West with Raymond Gunnin, seated.

Gunnin Retires From County Commission Raymond Gunnin has retired from his position on the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, representing District 2. In honor of his service, the commissioners surprised Gunnin with a resolution naming Cherokee County Fire Station No. 7 on Barnes Road in his honor. Gunnin started his service to Cherokee County in November, 1977, volunteering with the Little River Fire Department. After volunteering for three years, he became part of the paid fire service and earned ranks over the years from sergeant to lieutenant, captain, battalion chief and operations chief. He retired after leading Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services as fire chief for six years. “I was able to work a job I truly loved. We answered calls and were able to help people in what might have been the worst day of their lives,” Gunnin said. “Some of my best memories in the fire service include the other firefighters I became lifelong friends with, and the things we did together, along with the training and what I was able to learn over the years.” Gunnin hung up his fire hat after more than 30 years of service in 2011, and ran for office in 2012. He was sworn in as the District 2 county commissioner in January, 2013. “Raymond has been a faithful soldier and leader for Cherokee County for 40 years,” said Chairman Harry Johnston. “He’s been part of a lot of change in the Fire Department and the county as a whole. Nobody loves our county more than Raymond. I’m proud to call him my friend.” Richard Weatherby was sworn in last month to take over the District 2 seat. www.cherokeega.com. 10

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Grant Helps University Fight Violence Against Women The Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women has granted Reinhardt University Student Affairs $288,336.29 to fund programming that serves to educate and protect students on campus. Reinhardt will use the grant over the course of three academic years to establish a coordinated community response team (CCRT) and improve training for campus law enforcement and staff members who respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking incidents. The grant also will strengthen internal and external partnerships in order to provide more resources to students, expand ongoing prevention education efforts to raise awareness of these kinds of incidents on campus, and strengthen Reinhardt’s security infrastructure. “One incident of intimate partner violence or sexual assault — reported or unreported — is too many. This grant will help the university build on its educational programming, reporting systems and victim services that work together to keep our students safe while at the same time reassuring survivors that they have a voice, their voice matters and we are listening,” said Walter May, dean of students. The university also will use the funds to hire a full-time project director to oversee training and educational campaigns for the campus community. The CCRT will assist and support the director to inform, assess, design and implement Reinhardt’s prevention, education and responses.

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TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Local News Make a Difference, Plant a Tree

Woodstock residents can take advantage of an Arbor Day seedling giveaway on Feb. 19 to enhance their landscapes. The plan is to distribute 700 dogwood, redbud and bald cypress tree seedlings. A free booklet with important tree care information, including how to care for, plant and prune trees, as well as current water restrictions, is available online at www. woodstockparksandrec.com. Seniors at the William G. Long Senior Center assembled the seedling packages, which can be picked up at the following locations: • City Hall Annex 12453 Highway 92 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Woodstock Visitors Center at Dean’s Store, 8588 Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • The senior center 223 Arnold Mill Road 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

A tree also will be planted in the name of Woodstock staff celebrating 20 years of employment with the city. Congratulations to Police Lt. Michael Decocq, Community Development Administrative Coordinator Venis Ponce, Fire Lt. Daniel Allen and Fire Administrative Coordinator Sherry “Faye” Doss.

Ballinger

Thomas

Beach

Legislative Delegation Elects New Officers

Members of the Cherokee County legislative delegation recently met to elect new officers to lead the legislative delegation ahead of the 2021 legislative session, which began Jan. 11. State Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R-Canton) was elected to serve as delegation chair. “I am honored and eager to return to the state Capitol with this talented group of state legislators for the 2021 legislative session,” Ballinger said. “As we begin the new year and the 2021-2022 legislative term, the Cherokee County legislative delegation will always remain loyal and committed to the citizens of Cherokee County. Our delegation looks forward to working to champion legislative ideas that will benefit this wonderful county.” Ballinger represents the citizens of District 23. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2012 and currently serves as chairman of the Juvenile Justice Committee and as secretary of the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Oversight Committee. She also serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Public Safety and the Information and Audits, Judiciary Non-Civil, Rules and Transportation committees. State Rep. Brad Thomas (R-Holly Springs) was elected as vice chair, and State Sen. Brandon Beach (R-Alpharetta) was elected as the delegation’s secretary. The delegation also adopted its rules for the 20212022 legislative term. Thomas was elected in 2020 to represent the citizens of District 21, and recently was sworn in. Beach, who represents Senate District 21, is chairman of the Transportation Committee.

Medical Officials Seek Plasma Donors Northside Hospital and Atlanta Blood Services are recruiting recovered COVID-19 patients to participate in an investigational program that involves the collection of “convalescent” plasma for the treatment of certain patients who have been diagnosed with the virus. It is presumed that people who have fully recovered from COVID-19 have antibodies in their plasma that can attack the virus. Individuals who have had a diagnosis of COVID-19, or a positive antibody test, have been asymptomatic for at least 14 days, and have a negative test may be eligible to donate plasma. "We’re committed to collecting as much plasma as we need, to help the people throughout the country," said Dr. H. Kent Holland, medical director of the Blood and Marrow Transplant Program at Northside Hospital and the Atlanta Blood Services apheresis collection facility. The qualifications state that donors must: be healthy; be older than 18; previously have tested positive for COVID-19 or had a positive COVID-19 antibody test; been symptom-free for at least 14 days, and they must successfully screen as a blood donor per FDA blood donation guidelines. For more information, call 404-477-1299 or visit atlantabloodservices.com.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

First-time Authors Fulfill Personal Goals “The Red Clay of Eden” by Genee Graves

At 78, a local woman whose pen name is Genee Graves has written her first novel, and is dedicating 100% of the proceeds to her favorite local charity, Cherokee FOCUS. For Graves, it’s not about fame or fortune. It’s about helping families and children in our county. Cherokee Youth Works, an initiative of FOCUS, helps young people complete their education, gain life skills and obtain employment with a strong career path. Two of the author’s grandchildren have been successful in this program, along with hundreds of youth. The novel is a suspense story, filled with twists and turns, and features an elaborately carved box with a mysterious, faded note containing a reference to Eden. It is available at amazon.com.

“If and Only If ” by C.S. McKinney

McKinney is a Canton native who has accomplished a dream so many of us have: writing a book. He graduated from Cherokee High School in 2008, and spent a year at the University of Georgia before calling the University of North Georgia home. During college, he ran cross-country and track before switching his focus to triathlon. “Writing has always been an interest of mine, but I never grasped the idea of writing a novel until after college,” McKinney said. “ ‘If and Only If ’ is the first novel of a series that follows Sarah Mills during the most challenging, exciting, yet deterministic times a young woman faces while in college: emotionally, physically, and spiritually.” More details are available at www.csmckinney.com.

Doing Good in the Neighborhood Girl Scout Troop 14665 held a 10-day book drive to kick off a January 2021 community service effort and collected 3,819 books. All books were donated to the Little River United Methodist Church to help encourage reading in our community. The donation was presented to David Bailey, the church’s scout leader. A total of 3,819 books were collected by scouts in Troop 14665. 14

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Samuel Verniero Jr.

Local Resident Proclaimed a Hero

Woodstock resident Samuel Verniero Jr. has been named 2020 MPN Hero of the Year by Incyte Corporation and CURE Magazine. He has had a life of distinction in service to others as a United Nations diplomat, honorary Kentucky Colonel and Georgia leader for people with disabilities. He speaks with authority for people with disabilities, because he knows what it’s like. Verniero is living with polycythemia vera (PV), a rare blood cancer that is compounded by multiple serious medical conditions. He uses his public platform and contacts on various boards and commissions to raise awareness of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), which are blood cancers that occur when the body makes too many white or red blood cells, or platelets, according to cancersupportcommunity.org. He and his fiancé, Lanora, have been approached by two motion picture companies that want to tell his story. Verniero is excited that these opportunities can make a greater impact for the MPN community by reaching a nationwide and maybe even global audience. Several strokes have disabled his body, but not his personality or spirit. He continues to work for change and voice the need for additional MPN research that could improve the lives of patients with MPNs. www.voicesofmpn.com/ meet-mpn-heroes.aspx.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Crocheting Gives 93-Year-Old ‘Something to Do’

Izetta Stoner crochets two hats a day for children in the U.S. and Romania.

It’s a challenge to keep up with 93-year-old Izetta Stoner, especially when trying to get a count on how many hats she has crocheted for her favorite nonprofit. With an average of two hats a day, the tally as of Jan. 10 was 2,479 since she began in February, 2017. “It gives me something to do,” the Woodstock resident said. “I used to read a lot, and I still read, but I love to crochet and I’ve enjoyed this so much.” She also walks early every morning and evening for about a half hour, when the weather’s good. Izetta donates her hats to The Encouragement Project (TEP), a nonprofit with a heart for encouraging and helping people. “We thrive on connecting volunteers to opportunities, and encouragers to those who need encouraging,” CEO Stephanie Cervantes said. “There are many ways to help and encourage others — with gifts of time, service, provisions and words, and we encourage people to bless others in ways only they can. The variety in that is beautiful.” One ministry within TEP is the Hugs and Kisses project, with hugs being scarves, and kisses the hats that Izetta makes. They are given to organizations serving children in the North Georgia mountains, Appalachian areas in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee, and also Romania. Over the years, her hats also have gone to kids in foster care and homeless organizations. Stephanie has encouragement for others like Izetta, who have a skill they enjoy and want to help others. “TEP has a number of projects you could get involved with (www. theencouragementproject.org), or, if you don't see something that fits your likes and abilities, we encourage you to look for places near you that focus on your interests and … get involved.”

Cherokee Boasts Top Two Teams in Competition During a recent state lifeguard competition, one Cherokee County team won a tie breaker by just 3 seconds against fellow county lifeguards. The Cherokee Head Guard team emerged as the winner, after a tie-breaking paddle board relay against Cherokee A team during the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association’s Fall Lifeguard Competition. The teams not only competed, but served as hosts at the Cherokee County Aquatic Center, which meant they were charged with setting and cleaning up, and welcoming guests. Nine Georgia swim teams took part in the inaugural competition, which had been rescheduled from earlier in 2020. Five Cherokee County teams competed, along with others from Clayton County and the city of Cumming. Members of the Cherokee Head Guard team include Chris Cox, Phoebe Hart, Zoie Hart, Kendall Kalbach, Brennan Lindquist and Ethan Lindquist. Cherokee A team members are Spencer Espelid, Isaac Martin, Lilly Windham, Carson Portis, Skylar Thompson and David Wences. 16

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Kim Whatley with Cherokee County’s winning teams during a county commissioners meeting.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

BLACK

HISTORY

MONTH

Chuck McGhee continues to make a difference in the black community by raising funds for scholarships.

Civil Rights Movement Ve to Help Aspiring College BY MARGARET MILLER

The month of February has been recognized as Black History Month in America since 1970. Prior to that, beginning in 1926, only a week — the second week in February — was devoted to the study and the observance of Black history. Why the second week? The birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb. 14) were during that week. The purpose? To teach the neglected history of Black people in the public schools in the United States. In 1970, the observance was expanded from a week to Black History Month. During this month, emphasis continues to be placed on the people, places and things that Black people have contributed to the world. Local retired attorney Charles “Chuck” McGhee is a strong advocate of this observance. “Black History Month is an opportunity for young people to learn about the accomplishments

of people of color that did not manifest itself in our traditional history,“ McGhee said. In fact, the Birmingham, Alabama, native is a part of this history. He participated in many marches, sit-ins and other forms of civil disobedience during the 1960s. “I was personally involved with the demonstrations that Birmingham was known for because of fire hoses and dogs. I was among those arrested and jailed, but later released, because of lack of capacity in the jail,” said McGhee, a former Allstate manager. “In 1963, I lived in walking distance from the infamous 16th Street church bombing in Birmingham, where four young girls were killed. The bomb shook our house when it exploded. The girls who were tragically killed were students in the same school that I attended.” McGhee brings that same passionate fervor that he had in the civil rights struggle to helping minority students finance their college education. Each year, he devotes countless hours to helping organize a fundraiser, the ATC Golf Tournament, the proceeds from which go to the Allen Temple AME Church MLK JR. scholarships. For the past 20 years, the Canton resident has worked untiringly to see that those high school graduates in Cherokee County who are college-bound receive some financial assistance. Originally, this was the idea of the retired Allen Temple pastor, the Rev. Carl Moore Sr., who wanted to establish Golfers, from left, John Foster, and Walter Robinson with tournament organizer Chuck McGhee. Photo by Martha Hayden.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Veteran Works Students scholarships for minority students in Cherokee County. The golf tournament grew out of this idea. Previously called the Dude Brownlee Golf Tournament, it began with a goal of $3,000 to $5,000 yearly. Three years ago, the goal was raised to $20,000, which was met two years in a row until the pandemic hit. During the 2020 tournament, between $16,000 and $17,000 has been raised thus far. Among the many students aided by the scholarships are Chidi Victoria Ojukwu of Woodstock and Jonathan Taylor of Canton. Jonathan, a 2020 graduate of Middle Tennessee University (Murfreesboro), said the money from the scholarship helped him buy books and other supplies. Today, he is a music producer and a rapper. He recently released his first video. Ojukwu, a 2019 graduate of Mercer University in Macon, currently is a student at Morehouse University School of Medicine. Her mother, Cornelia Ojukwu, said the scholarships represent a community effort to help our young people who aspire to a college degree. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are an incentive for our children,â&#x20AC;? she said. In spite of the pandemic, McGhee, an alumnus of Tuskegee University, and others are continuing to make history with their commitment to assisting college students financially in achieving their dreams of earning a college degree. Margaret Miller is a native of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and moved to Woodstock 14 years ago. Her writing hobby led her to become a columnist for community and daily newspapers.

Chidi V. Ojukwu is a student at the Morehouse University School of Medicine.

Former Allen Temple AME Pastor Carl Moore, left, took part in the tournament with Elbert Brinker and Anthony Pharr. Photo by Martha Hayden.

Jonathan Taylor is a Middle Tennessee University graduate working in the music industry. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

BLACK

HISTORY in Cherokee County

Reflecting on the and Sacrifices of African-Americ BY JESSICA GORDY, HISTORY CHEROKEE

rom Freedom Fighters during the Civil Rights Movement to establishing the first Black volunteer fire department in Georgia, Cherokee County holds snapshots of the larger picture that is American history. History Cherokee is pleased to highlight community heroes and pioneers within our African American communities who have contributed to making history belong to all of us.

African American Communities

A new church was constructed in the 1950s off Belletta Drive on land donated by the Rev. R.R. Freeman Sr. Emma Jean Freeman donated the first 1,000 bricks for the building.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Following the 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery in the United States, 4 million enslaved people suddenly faced stark decisions. Some would stay on at plantations and work as sharecroppers. Others fled for a new beginning, in hopes of finding jobs in cities. Throughout the country, freed people began establishing their own all-Black communities. In Cherokee County, areas such as Pearidge and Stumptown became thriving, closeknit communities with families building and establishing homes, churches, businesses, storefronts, and even a funeral home. Located just north of Canton, off Highway 140, Pearidge often is described as more of an extended family than a community. The Pearidge community, formerly Keithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ridge, was formed by emancipated

e Contributions our can Ancestors slaves, specifically three intermingled families: the Keiths, Bates and McMickens. Descendants of these families remain in the community to this day. A stronghold in the Pearidge community is Hickory Log Baptist Church. Services originally were held in a log cabin, and later a clapboard structure on Elmwood Street, near the Hickory Log cemetery. In 1872, Philip Keith and his uncle, Dave Keith, established the Hickory Log Baptist Church, with Philip donating two acres of land for the church and cemetery. Stumptown was a traditionally African American community off East Main Street in Canton. The community maintained its own identity for decades, with a store, a funeral home and a church. The area was known as Stumptown because many tree stumps were left underneath house foundations when the area was developed in the 1920s.

Civil Rights Movement

In 1956, two segregated public high schools in Cherokee County were built: Cherokee High School and the Cherokee Training School. The Cherokee Training School had an initial enrollment of 162 African American students from the Woodstock, Nelson, Waleska, Pearidge, South Canton and Nineteen communities. Principal H.A. Bell is remembered fondly for his ability to extract the best efforts from teachers

Crisler Street, one of the main thoroughfares of Stumptown, is shown here in the 1940s, prior to citywide improvements, including paved roads.

and students, despite the lack of many resources. Bell even encouraged and assisted students to find college scholarships that would help them continue their education, despite financial challenges. The school later was named the Ralph J. Bunche School in 1961, and was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools under Bellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership. Brown v. Board of Education was the landmark 1954 Supreme Court case in which the justices unanimously ruled that racial segregation of children in public schools was unconstitutional. While this ruling did not achieve national school desegregation on its own, it

did fuel the nascent Civil Rights Movement in the United States, with boycotts, sit-ins and demonstrations eventually leading to the toppling of Jim Crow laws across the South. With the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, segregation on the grounds of race, religion or national origin was banned at all places of public accommodation, including courthouses, parks, restaurants, theaters, sports arenas and hotels. African Americans and other minorities no longer could be denied service based on the color of their skin. In the summer of that year, a number of businesses in Cherokee County continued to refuse admittance to African Americans.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

BLACK

HISTORY in Cherokee County

Cynthia Durham and Priscilla Strickland were the first African American students to integrate Cherokee High School.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Led by the Rev. R.R. Freeman of Hickory Log Baptist Church, the Freedom League was formed to challenge segregation by integrating establishments such as the Pine Crest Inn and Canton Theater. With Freeman calling the mayor and chief of police in advance, a group of four young men purchased their movie tickets and eventually were admitted into the theater. However, not everyone in Cherokee County was happy about this societal advance. Agitated crowds overturned a car outside the theater, and the local KKK chapter harassed African American residents throughout the county following the events. Following Freedom Summer, Cynthia Durham and Priscilla Strickland were the first African American students to integrate Cherokee High School. These two women wanted to broaden their educational experience, and, after much discussion with their family and the principal of the school, the two decided to attend Cherokee High in the fall of

1965. In the book “Cherokee County, Georgia: A History,” by Rebecca Johnston, the two recalled being treated poorly on their first day of school. "I remember us coming in one of the back halls and coming down the hall. It was as if everyone in the school had converged there and as we walked down the hall they backed out of the way," Strickland said. "They were very antagonistic. I do believe that there were good people at the school. ... Some people were throwing things at us as we walked by; I could hear them muttering and calling us ugly names." Although the two women recalled difficult times, they agreed that they had no regrets being the first to integrate the school. Because of the individual bravery of those Freedom Fighters and Freeman’s relentless work toward a better and united Cherokee County, the social unrest eventually dissipated, allowing the community to grow together and heal.

The Rev. R.R. Freeman is seen in 1972, from the Centennial Anniversary of Hickory Log Baptist Church booklet.

The lunch counter at Pine Crest Inn was integrated by brave individuals during Freedom Summer, 1964.

Community Heroes

Among those who have chosen service over self in our community, Charlie E. Ferguson Jr. and his son, Tony Ferguson, saw a need to have a fire station in the Nineteen and Pearidge communities. They established a volunteer fire department in the 1970s. They worked tirelessly to secure the land and raise funds to build a fire station, and collaboratively worked with city and county officials to ensure this need was met. The two played key roles in creating the first Black volunteer station in Georgia, where Tony served as the first fire chief at Station No. 9. In September, 2020, Station No. 9 was dedicated to the memory of Charlie E. Ferguson Jr., for his leadership and dedicated service to his community.

Do you have a story to tell? We’d love to hear from you, so we can expand our repository of local history with tales that we haven’t heard yet. History Cherokee is committed to historic preservation and education throughout the county, offering visitors the opportunity to explore Cherokee County history, from Native American habitation to events shaping the county today. If you are interested in contributing your stories through oral history interviews, or items that may help tell a larger story of American history, we look forward to hearing from you. 770-345-3288. historycherokee.org.

Jessica Gordy joined History Cherokee as the Marketing and Communications Manager in October, 2020.

Charlie E. Ferguson Jr. and his son, Tony Ferguson, were instrumental in establishing Georgia’s first Black volunteer fire department.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Me, Oh, My... I Love Pie ! In the movie "Michael," starring John Travolta, actress Andie McDowell sings a ditty known as the "Pie Song" about how much she loves pie. It would appear she is not alone, because February has been designated as the Great American Pie Month! To celebrate, and because we also love pie, members of the Aroundabout Local Media staff are sharing their favorite pie recipes with you. Enjoy!

Chocolate Pie Michelle McCulloch art director

This is a McCulloch family favorite! When my mother-in-law comes to town, this always is part of the visit.

Ingredients

• 2 fully baked pie crusts • 1 ½ cups of sugar • 3 tablespoons of cornstarch • ½ teaspoon of salt • 3 squares of unsweetened baking chocolate, or ½ cup of cocoa powder • 3 cups of whole milk • 3 egg yolks, slightly beaten • 1 tablespoon of butter • 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract

Directions

In a saucepan, mix the sugar, cornstarch, salt and chocolate in a pan, and then slowly stir in the milk. Heat on medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 15 minutes. Be patient! It will start to thicken. Then, gently boil for 1 minute. Take a few tablespoons of the mixture and add to beaten egg yolks to temper the eggs, then stir the tempered mixture into the saucepan. Stir on medium heat for 1 additional minute. Add in butter and vanilla. Pour immediately into the baked pie shells. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Serve with whipped cream. Yields two 8-inch pies. 24

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Sweet Potato Pie Jackie Loudin

managing editor and social media strategist The best thing about this pie is that it is delicious and versatile. It can be eaten as a side dish to your main meal or as dessert. No matter how you enjoy it, don’t forget to top it off with a dollop of whipped cream!

Ingredients

• 3 eggs • 2 cans (15 ounces each) sweet potatoes, drained • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk • 1½-2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

Use a food processor or mixer to combine eggs, sweet potatoes, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin spice, vanilla and salt. Blend until smooth. Pour into a frozen pie shell. Bake at 425 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 and bake 28-35 minutes longer, or until set in the middle. Cool on a wire rack. Garnish with whipped cream and toasted pecans, if desired.

Key Lime Pie

Southern Chess Pie

ALM president

marketing and advertising specialist

Patty Ponder

I like the regular pie crust versus the graham cracker crust, so that you can get the real flavor of the limes. This is an easy recipe, but good, and consistent every time!

Ingredients • • • • •

1 10-inch pie crust pre-cooked 6 egg yolks 4 teaspoons powdered sugar 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated) 8 ounces real key lime juice (Publix sells this where the other lime and lemon juice is sold). You can use fresh key limes, but the pie will be more tangy.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Beat egg yolks, sugar and sweetened condensed milk together in a large bowl until well combined. Stir in the lime juice. Pour into prepared pie crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the center is firm. Cool and chill. Top with whipped cream and a thin slice of lime for garnish. Serves 8-10. This is a hit every time!

Cherry Cream Cheese Pie

Katie Beall

Around Acworth editor I’m not sure where my mom found this recipe, but, growing up, it was a staple for any family gathering. I think my mom liked it because it’s super easy!

Ingredients • • • • • •

Michelle Smith

The filling in this pie is a very rich custard that is sweeter than most, so it is possible to eat it in smaller pieces. Or not!

Ingredients • • • • • • • • •

1½ cups of butter, softened 2 cups of sugar 4 eggs, room temperature 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 2 tablespoons of cornmeal 1 tablespoon of flour ¼ cup of evaporated milk 1 tablespoon white vinegar 9-inch pie crust, unbaked

Directions

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Mix the butter and sugar until pieces are about the size of cooked rice. In another bowl, mix the eggs, vanilla, cornmeal, flour, milk and vinegar until combined. Mix into the butter and sugar mixture. Pour into the pie crust. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 325 degrees for about 15 minutes more. Then cover with a pie shield (or foil), and bake another 30-35 minutes, or until barely set in the middle. Cool completely before cutting.

Notes: • You may want to put a cookie sheet on the rack underneath the pie in case some butter seeps out. • Pie will have a light crust on top (delightful!), but that makes it difficult to tell if it's set. When you gently jiggle the pie, it will still quiver a bit while hot, and should be slightly puffed at the edges.

1 9-inch crumb crust 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened 1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk ¼ cup of lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 can (1-pound, 5 ounces) chilled Comstock cherry pie filling

Directions

In a medium size bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, and stir until well blended. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla. Turn into the crust. Refrigerate 2-3 hours, then add cherries and serve. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

French Silk Chocolate Pie Laura Latchford, page designer

Garnishing this pie with grated chocolate is optional. But, why would you make it optional?

Ingredients

Sparkling Cherry Pie Jennifer Coleman, market manager

Cherry pie has always been my absolute favorite, especially when it sparkles!

Ingredients

• 4 cups of fresh or frozen (thawed) pitted sour red cherries • 1⅓ cups of sugar • ¼ cup of quick-cooking tapioca • 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour • dash of salt • ¼ teaspoon of almond extract • 1 box of Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on the box • 1 tablespoon of cold butter, cut into small pieces • 1 teaspoon of milk • 1 teaspoon of sugar

Directions

Heat oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, mix the cherries, sugar, tapioca, flour, salt and almond extract. Let stand for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the pie crusts as directed on the box for a two-crust pie, using a 9-inch glass pie plate. Pour the cherry mixture into the crust-lined plate, and dot with butter. Top with the second crust and flute; cut slits in several places. Brush the top crust with milk, and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Bake for 20 minutes. Cover the crust edges with strips of foil to prevent excessive browning. Reduce the heat to 350 degrees, and bake 40 minutes longer, or until golden brown and bubbly. Cool for at least two hours before serving. If you want to get fancy, you can sprinkle the top with a dash of edible glitter, just for fun! 26

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

• ½ cup of butter, room temperature • 1 cup of white sugar • 2 (1-ounce) squares of unsweetened baking chocolate, melted and cooled • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 eggs • 1 prepared 8-inch pastry shell, baked and cooled

Directions

Cream butter with an electric mixer in a large mixing bowl. Gradually beat in the sugar until light colored and well blended. Stir in the thoroughly cooled chocolate, and vanilla extract. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating 5 minutes on medium speed after each egg. Spoon the chocolate filling into the cooled, baked pie shell. Add whipped cream topping on top of the chocolate filling (see instructions below). Garnish with grated chocolate (optional). Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours before serving.

Whipped Cream Topping • 1 cup of heavy whipping cream • 1 tablespoon of confectioners sugar • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Place your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to chill. Pour heavy whipping cream, sugar and vanilla into the cold bowl, and whisk on high speed until medium to stiff peaks form, about 1 minute. Do not overbeat.

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resurgence in the popularity of pie in our everyday lives. People have taken to tying up their apron strings, digging out family recipes, and once again filling pastries with mounds of apples, heaps of chocolate pudding, or bushels of berries. Baking a pie does not need to be difficult and, in fact, I believe it should be an experience that brings you joy, which is why I have a few best practices for you to use the next time you decide to be a part of pie history.

Best Practice No. 1: Make Your Own Crust

Fruit pies, like this peach one, are best when the fruits are at peak season.

History Proves Our Love for Pie BY LAUREN BOLDEN

As someone who considers herself a Frequent Pie-er, I was surprised to find that I did not know the origin story of pie until recently. After a few hours of Googling (and let’s be honest, distracted Facebook scrolling), I settled down and read a top-tobottom history of pie. It seems pie has been consumed by people since the time of the Romans. Although it turns out, Julius Caesar was not enjoying a slice of bourbon chocolate pecan pie, but rather, pie for Mr. Caesar and his pals was more of a “meat wrapped in a reed” kind of experience. As time went on and word spread, 28

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

people began stuffing more things inside of pastries, and eventually these pies landed in America, thanks to a very popular Transatlantic Cruise in 1620. Over time, the pie fillings of choice began to expand, and savory and sweet pies were enjoyed. It seems by the 1800s, bakers and eaters alike were completely on board with pastries filled with fruits, nuts and any ingredients that satisfy one’s sweet tooth. It’s 2021, and although pie has remained a dessert staple, specifically during the holidays, I think we are beginning to see a

I believe it was FDR who said the famous phrase “the only thing we have to fear when making a pie crust is fear itself ... and not keeping our butter cold.” He obviously knew what he was talking about, because in all of the times I have taught people how to make pie dough that yields a super flaky pie crust, there seems to be two things that hold them back: fear of failure and not knowing how cold their butter should be throughout the dough-making process. In response to the fear of failure, this will be addressed at the end of Best Practice No. 4. “And for the butter?” Pull it directly from the refrigerator when you make your pie dough and move quickly through your pie dough recipe. You want to keep the butter as close to the temperature it was inside of your refrigerator for as long as possible.

Cold butter makes for a flaky pastry.

Best Practice No. 2: Cold Pie, Hot Oven

If you are able to, bake your pie in a metal or foil pie pan. This will allow you to freeze your pie crust before filling it with your pie filling of choice. Putting a chilled, homemade pie crust into a hot oven (that means give it time to pre-heat!) will help your crust be super flaky. Keeping your butter cold at all stages is important for flaky pie crust. Note: Do not place a glass or ceramic pie pan in the freezer before baking it. The transition from extreme cold to extreme heat can cause your pan to shatter or crack.

Best Practice No. 3: Bake with the Seasons

We live in a world where everything is at our fingertips at all times, but when it comes to baking a pie, I like to follow Mother Nature’s lead. In Georgia, our peaches are sweet and juicy at the height of summer, so save your peach pie recipe for when the key ingredient, peaches, are at their most perfect. Of course, if you are a planner, you can find those seasonal ingredients during their height and preserve them for enjoyment any time of year.

Best Practice No. 4: Keep Pantry in Stock

You never know when you might get the urge to bake a pie, which is why I recommend keeping certain pantry staples in stock at all times. Unsalted butter, granulated sugar, allpurpose flour, coarse kosher salt, nuts (pecans and walnuts are great), syrup (corn or maple), a variety of seasonally appropriate fruits, vanilla ice cream, and vodka. From the butter to the fruits, each of those ingredients can be combined to make a pie that would make any pie baker proud. When you are ready to serve your pie, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and of course, if the pie is not quite what you hoped it would be, that is what the vodka is for. Lauren Bolden is a self-taught pie baker who has spent the past five years working to spread joy through pie. LaurenEBolden.com.

Maple Walnut Pie Being from Georgia, I grew up eating pecan pie. The combination of sweet, Karo Syrup and hearty pecan pieces is a Southern staple. This maple walnut pie has got to be pecan pie’s Northern cousin. Sweetened with maple syrup and filled with earthy walnuts, this pie goes perfectly with a cup of hot coffee ... no matter where you are from!

Components of the Pie

• Use your favorite pie crust recipe and roll it out in a 9-inch pie pan. Keep refrigerated. • Maple walnut filling.

Ingredients for filling • • • • • • • •

¼ cup light brown sugar ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt 1 cup pure maple syrup 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon coffee extract 3 large eggs, lightly beaten/mixed ½ - ¾ cup walnut pieces, chopped halves or pieces

Directions

In a large bowl, combine light brown sugar and coarse kosher salt. Whisk together until combined. Pour in maple syrup. Whisk until combined. Pour in melted butter, vanilla extract and coffee extract. Whisk until combined. Add eggs. Whisk until combined. Add chopped walnut halves or pieces. Stir with a spatula until combined.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Remove the 9-inch pie pan containing the pie crust from the refrigerator. Pour the maple walnut filling into the pie crust. Place on a rimmed baking sheet and place on the middle rack of your oven. Bake for approximately one hour. The pie is finished baking when the center is set and the crust is golden brown. Add additional time as needed. Remove the pie from the oven, allow to cool on a baking rack for approximately two hours, and then keep the pie refrigerated until ready to serve. This pie will last in your refrigerator for up to seven days. Note: This recipe was adapted from "The United States of Pie" by Adrienne Kane. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

2020 IRA Deadlines Are Approaching BY DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Financially, many of us associate April with taxes, but, we also should associate April with important IRA deadlines. April 15 is the deadline to take your required minimum distribution (RMD) from certain individual retirement accounts. Keep in mind that withdrawals from traditional, SIMPLE and SEP-IRAs are taxed as ordinary income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings from a Roth IRA, your Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals also can be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals. April 15 is the deadline for making annual contributions to a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and certain other retirement accounts.1 Some people may not realize when they can make their IRA contribution. You can make a yearly IRA contribution between Jan. 1 of the current year and April 15 of the next year. Accordingly, you can make your IRA contribution for 2020 any time up to April 15, 2021.2 Thanks to the SECURE Act, both traditional and Roth IRA owners have the chance to contribute to their IRAs past age 72, as long as they have taxable compensation (and in the case of Roth IRAs, MAGI below a certain level; see below).2 If you are making a 2020 IRA contribution in early 2021, you must tell the investment company hosting the IRA account for which year you are contributing. If you fail to

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

indicate the tax year that the contribution applies to, the custodian firm may make a default assumption that the contribution is for the current year (and note exactly that to the IRS). So, write “2021 IRA contribution” or “2020 IRA contribution,” as applicable, in the memo area of your check, plainly and simply. Be sure to write your account number on the check. If you make your contribution electronically, double-check that these details are communicated. 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 a 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 - irs.gov, November 23, 2020 2 - irs.gov, November 10, 2020

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.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

? e v o L s I t a h W

Peyton, age 8

1. Valentine's Day is a day that you dance and give gifts. 2. You know someone loves you by hugs. 3. A good Valentine's gift is candy and toys to give.

Parker, age 3

Valentine’s Day Through The Eyes of a Child.

1. Heart. Two ones. 2. Mommy loves me. And, Daddy loves me. 3. Hearts and a bath bomb.

s we get older, we can find ourselves running out of ideas to celebrate those we love. To get a fresh perspective, we asked for advice from some well-known experts in our community - your kids! If you’re struggling with what to buy that special person in your life, or you’re not even sure they feel the same way you do, we hope the answers to the following questions will be helpful.

1. What is Valentine’s Day? 2. How do you know if someone loves you? 3. What’s a good Valentine’s Day gift?

Brady, age 9

1. You get gifts for everyone you know and love. 2. They look out for me. 3. Heart shaped candies

Gwennie, age 6

1. Valentine’s Day is where you have love and family over for food. 2. You know someone loves you if they give you a heart sign. 3. The best Valentine present is shoes with hearts on them. 32

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

What Is

Love?

Kylie, age 6

1. What is Valentine’s Day? 2. How do you know if someone

1. Love. 2. They hug you. 3. A dog and a cat.

loves you?

3. What’s a good Valentine’s Day gift?

Michael Gage, age 7

1. A day to celebrate something … I don’t know. Oh yeah. To love each other.

2. You ask! 3. Candy?? And love.

M.J., age 9

1. Valentine's Day is not a legal holiday where the government

closes schools, but it’s where you give small gifts or letters or candy to give love to others. 2. I know someone loves me if they tell me and hug and kiss for no reason. 3. The best Valentine presents are cards and chocolate candy.

Sara, age 9

1. A day for loving your family and your friends. 2. If you’re nice to them and they’re nice to you. 3. Put a nice card with maybe some candy and say that you appreciate them.

Nathan, age 6

1. The day of love. 2. They say "I Love You" and give you a gift.

3. A Card and CANDY!

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Amelia, age 7

Raleigh, age 6

and kindness. 2. They can give you a card. 3. Chocolate.

3. Love.

1. A holiday to celebrate love

1. To celebrate Valens…? 2. Because they say I love

you and they share things.

Addison, age 6

1. Love. 2. Because they act nice. 3. A card or a fairy bookmark, but not a plain one â&#x2C6;&#x2019; a fancy one.

Anslee, age 7

1. A day of being nice, giving

cards, being kind, helping and giving hugs. 2. Hugs and kisses. 3. A card, stickers and healthy good treats.

Austin, age 11 1. It's something

for your mother. 2. Because they kiss you. 3. A heart and candy.

Inman, age 11

1. A day you get lots of chocolate!

2. When they think of you before themselves.

3. A dog!

Kate, age 4

1. That means when you get cards. 2. Because they love you forever. 3. Giving out cards.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Celebrate Galentine’s Day Honor Your Gal Pals in Woodstock BY STACY BROWN

While Galentine’s Day is a made-up holiday championed by a fictional character, Leslie Knope from NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” would find Woodstock the perfect place to celebrate female friendships. According to Knope, “Every Feb. 13, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it, breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies. It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus frittatas.” Woodstock, whose slogan is A City Unexpected, boasts plenty of top-notch restaurants serving breakfast and brunch from buttery biscuits to fluffy pancakes, all with perfectly roasted coffee or expertly crafted cocktails. Woodstock’s restaurants have made changes to keep patrons safe during the pandemic. If you’re opting for a virtual Galentine’s Day celebration, many eateries offer curbside carryout or delivery. One of the hallmarks of Galentine’s Day is a heartfelt gift to show your best girls some love. Woodstock is home to the Atlanta area’s newest and best outlet shopping with about 100 luxury brand shops as well as a vibrant and authentic downtown district with more than two dozen unique shops and boutiques. You’re sure to find an inspired gift for your gals. Another way to ensure Galentine’s Day is, as Knope asserts, “only the best day of the year,” is to book spa treatments. Woodstock’s salons offer a luxurious array of services. While you can indulge in classic facials and massages, you can also take advantage of trends such as body sculpting or microneedling. And while you are celebrating, book a safe stay next to the outlets so you can shop until you drop right into a comfy bed in a wellappointed suite, or snag a room for you and your besties at one of the hotel properties that are walking distance from the Noonday Creek Trail. “It’s wonderful, and it should be a national holiday,” according to Knope. And while the holiday won’t be closing banks and schools anytime soon, you should make a weekend of it, especially since it falls on Saturday. Your guide for all things Galentine-related can be found at visitwoodstockga.com. 36

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Toasting their friendship are, from left, Marishell Mulvihill of Holly Springs, Heather Scott from Marietta and Jackie Yetso, who lives in Tennessee.

Or Find a Closely Remote Location

“Since 2018, I have been getting together with some of my closest college girlfriends for a proper Leslie Knope-style Galentine’s weekend. It’s something that we all look forward to each year. We retreat to a cabin in the North Georgia mountains where we eat and drink way too many carbs all while solving the world's problems in our comfiest pjs.”

- Nikki Estill,

a Woodstock resident for 11 years

Friends gather to celebrate Galentine’s Day in a North Georgia cabin. From left, Melanie Smith and Tamara Humphres from Tennessee, Melissa Fulford of Smyrna, Nikki Estill from Woodstock, Heather Scott from Marietta and Andrea Moore from Tennessee.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com March deadline is Feb. 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

Flo Chase

March 17, 1917 Happy 104th birthday!

Kyler Sealock

Wyatt

Happy 13th birthday!

9 years old on Feb. 16 Happy birthday! Love, Mimi and Grandaddy.

Cloe Drury and Bryan McCulloch were married on Dec. 19, 2020 in Decatur, GA. The bride is daughter of Patricia Drury and groom is son of Michelle and James McCulloch. Both are graduates of Georgia Southern.

Corbin

Ronan Seboria

Age 2 on Jan. 23. Happy birthday to our sweet boy. We love you! Mama, Papa, and Luna. 38

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Brooklyn Lane

Feb. 10 Happy 7th birthday to our adventurous, strong-willed leader! We are so proud of you. Mom and Dad.

Cadence Palm

Brielle Palm

Happiest of 1st birthdays to our precious baby boy! We adore you! Momma, Daddy and Archer.

Happy 5th birthday! We love you bunches, Grandma and Grandpa Nystrom.

Happy 2nd birthday! We love you bunches, Grandma and Grandpa.

Steele Ponder

Hailey Weiner

Madison Grace Ellis

Age 7 on Jan. 22. Happy birthday, Buddy! We love you! Daddy, Momma, Slade and Eevee.

Jan. 17 Happy 15th birthday! We love you! Mom, Dad, Colby, Luna, Ringo and Mr. Waffles.

Age 13 on Feb. 12. Happy birthday to our favorite daughter. Stay humble and kind. All our love, Mommy and Daddy.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Panda. She is black and white. She is quite energetic, and should be an only dog. She is 3 years old and hasn’t had the best life. She is thin, and has been bred. She would make a great family dog with a lot of attention and good training. This cat’s name is Jillo. She is 13 years old. She is very affectionate, and will wrap her arms around you when you hold her. This cat needs to get adopted! It is a priority. Panda and Jillo are at Cobb County Animal Services.

From left, Collins Puckett, Camden Browning, T.H. Marovich, Colin Hollie, Kendall Ripley, Ella Kate Perryman, Baylee Heil and Rob meet to assemble feral cat shelters.

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

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

I had friends help me build feral cat shelters for a project to help Hope Lewallen of Dalton Feral Cats (on Facebook @daltonferalcats). We built feral shelters, and, then, I took them to Dalton, Georgia. We put them in places where feral cats live to hopefully give them shelter during the winter. This project was filmed by Dreampost Films for the Dr. Good Unleashed Video series. You can watch Episode 1.36 on YouTube. www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpdTpghFosk.

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues that hold the pelvic organs in place weaken and drop lower into the pelvis. Prolapse refers to the drooping of pelvic organs that include the cervix, uterus, bladder, vagina, small intestines and rectum. There are different types of prolapse that affect different organs in a woman’s body. After an examination, your doctor will discuss your specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

Peace of Mind We’re here to help you meet your ﬁnancial goals.

Causes of Prolapse

In addition to childbirth, risk factors include a family history of the condition, obesity, advancing age, hysterectomy or prior pelvic surgery, menopause, intense physical activity, and more. Conditions such as asthma or constipation are a risk factor due to the increased intra-abdominal pressure.

Symptoms

Many women experience no symptoms and discover the condition during a routine gynecological exam. Symptoms vary by which organ is drooping, i.e., if urine is leaking, the bladder might have prolapsed. Other symptoms include: • A feeling of constant heaviness around the pelvic area. • Organs bulging out of the vagina. • Lower back pain. • Painful intercourse. • Problems having a bowel movement. • Problems inserting tampons.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of the exact cause is critical. A simple pelvic or rectal examination is completed during a physical examination for a diagnosis. Your doctor will attempt to determine the severity of the prolapse, by observation of the vaginal walls and cervix. Your doctor might also ask you to strain to cough during the exam.

Treatment

Depending on the severity, your age, and other factors, options include: • Observation. Women experiencing no symptoms get treatment through regular exams. • Kegel exercises. A pelvic floor physical therapy where you squeeze the pelvic muscles, ultimately strengthening them. • Lifestyle and dietary changes that address obesity. • Pessaries. A non-surgical solution using silicone devices for structural support. • Surgery. Performed through the vagina or abdomen, or by laparoscopy depending on the support problem.

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For proper diagnosis and treatment options, make an appointment with a urogynecologist, an expert in prolapse.

Cherokee Women's Health Specialists PC has seven physicians with offices in Canton and Woodstock. 770-720-7733. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.

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www.CUofGA.org TOWNELAKER | February 2021

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nce you meet Brianna “You wouldn’t want to trust Johnson, owner of Good a complete stranger driving Faith Health Insurance, you’ll your vehicle, or living in your understand why she ranks in house,” she said. “I’ve talked to the top five agents in the nation many people who purchase a for her main carrier. plan without knowing what they The Acworth resident is have until it’s too late to change one of 11 siblings whom she anything. That mistake can often describes as very servantcost them just as much as the minded people who keep her cost of their home or vehicle.” accountable and on her toes. She’s a faithful church-goer A Life-Changing Gift and lives her life and runs her “I met Laura when I first business on Christian values. started in this business, and Brianna’s mission is to work I specialized in pre-existing with individuals to create a conditions for life and disability personalized insurance plan insurance. She has asked me that meets each person’s specific to share her story. I met her needs, offering the most feasible in 2017 and was floored when options and informing her Laura told me she wasn’t clients when it comes to any pre-existing conditions/clauses. planning on living very long Good Faith partners with because she couldn’t afford like-minded business owners her medication. At that time, and individuals for the best fit, it was $2,500 per medication/ whether that’s collaborating injection and has since increased on the tax side of their health to $5,500. After doing a ton insurance or helping guide them of research, I was able to find through their own, individual medicine for her for $40. She health and life insurance plans. Brianna Johnson works with each client for a tailor-made plan. had the injections and, since “We specialize in consulting then, has married and just had her with small business owners; second child,” Brianna said. strategizing with their budget when it comes to their specific “I’ve also had cases where seniors purchase a terrible health insurance needs, and educating them on their options, Medicare plan that becomes more costly and has lower whether that’s with an Affordable-Care-Act-compliant group benefits over time. I even had an 85-year-old who had a planning, an individual private plan, or a shareplan,” Brianna $15,000 maximum on her plan, and she had no idea.” said. “We also focus on Medicare insurance for seniors and Brianna works with clients to custom-build insurance plans early retirees.” that cover very specific needs, such as affordable medications In her downtime, Brianna and her husband Greg love to and pre-existing conditions. “Health insurance is a tough hike and sample the local Towne Lake cuisine. You will often industry,” she said, often hard on agents and carriers. But see her walking around town with her large, red doberman Brianna feels very blessed to be able to help people who need in tow. Or driving from meeting to meeting in her orange guidance. Nissan Rogue. “With all of the uncertainty of what's happening now, it's important to have someone who can guide and direct you Agent vs. Broker when it comes to your health insurance. Making sure you are The advantage of working with Good Health is the educated is our number one priority with Good Faith Health personalized service Brianna provides while representing Insurance.” multiple companies. Being able to meet in person is an To find Brianna, visit www.goodfaithhealthinsurance.com, or advantage she also offers, rather than over-the-phone to make an appointment to find your personalized insurance consultations with unknown agents who, at times, aren’t even licensed. options, call 770-289-9231.

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Making a Choice Without Considering Needs, Lifestyle

There is no universal best type of flooring for everybody. Different types of floors will hold up differently depending on factors such as traffic, pets, kids, etc. Knowing your family’s lifestyle and picking a flooring that fits into that lifestyle is something that a lot of people don’t consider. For example, picking a high gloss hardwood floor when you have young kids and pets is setting the floor up for failure. All floors have pros and cons. You need to take the time to determine which product will best meet your needs (lifestyle, budget, appearance, maintenance, etc.) with the fewest concerns. Spend time talking with flooring professionals, and be honest about what you do not like about your current floor, and then listen to the recommendations and advice. Be open to products you have not considered.

Not Understanding What You Are Buying

Flooring Mistakes to Avoid BY ELISABETH STUBBS

Shopping for new floors? Worried you will make an expensive mistake? You’re not alone – most people feel that way! This is something you probably never have done before. With so many choices, and so much information to absorb, there are a few flooring mistakes to avoid.

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Picking a new floor can be daunting. There are hundreds of products, and you want to make sure you are getting the best quality product for your budget. For example, all carpet is not the same, just like all cars are not exactly the same. A 30-ounce polyester carpet is totally different, and less costly, than a 65-ounce nylon carpet, just like a Kia is not at all like a Rolls Royce. The more you know, the easier it will be to make the best choice for your home.

Skimping on Installation

You can buy the best quality product on the market, but if it’s installed incorrectly, there will be problems, and it will not last as long as it should. It is important to do research on installation. You are paying a lot of money to put in new floors, so you want them to be installed correctly. When choosing an installer, make sure they are familiar with the product and have experience dealing with that product. You want your investment to last for years, so don’t cheat yourself by cutting corners with installation. The very best installers usually do not install a wide variety of products; most specialize in certain areas in order to be a true craftsman. Following this advice will help you make the best choice for your home.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

How Do We Keep Cherokee County Great? BY HARRY JOHNSTON

Cherokee County is a fabulous place to live, and we haven’t kept that a secret. We’re close enough to Atlanta to take advantage of the tremendous economic opportunity it provides. Yet, we are far enough away to enjoy a small-town and semi-rural lifestyle. Add to that great schools and public safety, beautiful geography and low taxes, and it’s no surprise we’re the second fastest growing county in the state. So, what are the keys to keeping Cherokee County great, and making it even greater as we continue to experience growth? Of course, we have to keep up on roads and county services, while keeping taxes low. We’re playing catchup on some state highways, and that will continue for several years. Otherwise, infrastructure and services are excellent, and the tax burden controlled by the Board of Commissioners is among the lowest in Georgia. There is, however, a bigger issue. We all know what it is, although we may differ in exactly what it looks like and how best to achieve it. It’s controlling and shaping the rapid growth of our county, so we can retain the qualities that make Cherokee a great place as we continue to grow. Easily said, but extremely hard to do. The competing political and economic forces around growth and development are tremendous. Many who moved here for the rural, small-town character would like to stop most or all growth. But, many large property owners and investors, plus an army of builders, developers, lenders and other business people, want the economic benefits of growth. And the law is mostly on their side. Written laws and court rulings have been clear that property owners are entitled to a reasonable economic use of their property. In many counties, it’s been like the Joni Mitchell song

“Big Yellow Taxi:” “You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone.” However, in Cherokee, we realized what we have sooner than most, maybe because so many residents came here from places that didn’t. Controlling growth moved from radical to mainstream 15 to 20 years ago. For the past 14 years, we’ve had a responsible-growth majority on the county’s Board of Commissioners. Canton’s and Woodstock’s city councils shifted that way soon after, and Holly Springs has moved significantly in that direction in recent years. But the growth has continued. We’re literally still seeing new development from rezonings 15 years ago. The zoning process is sometimes difficult, leading to compromises. And, of course, the law says we must allow the reasonable economic use of property. Significantly, developers sometimes negotiate between the county and cities, trying to get the highest density possible. While the county and cities are now more on the same page, it still happens. I believe the most important thing we can do to keep Cherokee County great is a unified county/city comprehensive development plan we can all adhere to closely. We’ve been distracted from that goal by other issues affecting city/county relations, but I hope we can soon get back to this goal and complete it, helping Cherokee County continue to be the best place to live in the metro region.

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Cherokee County Board of Commissioners For the full minutes and a schedule of upcoming meetings, visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners is looking at efforts to keep trash off the county’s roads and highways. District 1 Commissioner Steve West introduced an ordinance amendment at the Jan. 5 meeting that would require commercial trash transfer trucks to ensure their trucks are completely covered. “This would force large tractortrailer trucks coming out of the landfill to roll their tarps back up and to cover their trailers,” West said. “A lot of the trash you see up and down the highways is caused by the trucks not covering their trailers after leaving the landfill. Trash that gets stuck inside the trailer is loosened by the wind and blown into the trees and along the highways. I’ve been working with the marshal’s office for the last year or so to put together this ordinance.” West made a motion to call for a public hearing on the amendment to Article II Division 5 Section 141(f ) of Chapter 14 of the Code of Ordinances at the Feb. 2 meeting. It was seconded by District 3 Commissioner Benny Carter, and passed with a 5-0 vote.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Commissioners also:

• Honored Freehome Innovation Park’s request to remand its application to the Planning Commission. Freehome Innovation Park is seeking to rezone 11.755 acres at 12184 Cumming Highway from General Agriculture and R-80 Estate Residential to Light Industrial for a multi-purpose use including two office/warehouse buildings. • Approved a request by ZP Group, LLLP to rezone 11.63 acres at 7595 Highway 92 and 100 Queens Way from R-40 and Light Industrial to General Commercial and RM-16 (Multi-Family Residential) for a mixed use development of commercial and residential apartments. The Board also approved the request for concurrent variances related to reducing the front setback to 25 feet and to allow a 25-foot wide planted evergreen screening/ transition buffer between dissimilar zoning districts. • Approved appointing Commissioner Corey Ragsdale to the position of vice chair. Heard Commissioner Richard Weatherby make the following appointments: Loriann White, Cemetery Preservation Committee; Terry Meier, Cherokee Recreation and Parks Advisory Board; Raymond Gunnin, Fire Code Appeals Board; Larry Lusk, Impact Fee Appeals Board; Chris Van Zant, Planning Commission; Jason Daniel, Wrecker Service Advisory Board; and Robin Hunt, Zoning Board of Appeals. • Approved the consent agenda, which included: a $25,300 agreement with Jericho Design Group for design services to convert the old Fire Station 9 (at 1398 Reinhardt College Parkway in Canton) into a community center.

During the Dec. 15, 2020, meeting commissioners:

• Proclaimed Dec. 15, 2020, Frankie Shepherd Day in Cherokee County. Shepherd is a lifelong Cherokee County resident who has devoted her time to bettering the community. Her list of volunteer duties includes 19 years on the Board of Elections. • Heard Commissioner Carter appoint/reappoint the following people to boards for a four-year term: Jennifer Kovacs-Animal Control Advisory Board; Harold Silvey-Cemetery Preservation Committee; Mark Preetorius-Recreation and Parks Advisory Board; Roy Taylor-Construction Board of Appeals; Berry Dabbs, Jr.-Fire Code Appeals Board; Dee DaSantos-Impact Fee Appeals Board; Lisa Tressler-Planning Commissioner; Kevin MooreWrecker Service Advisory Board; Lisa Tressler-Zoning Board of Appeals.

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TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Is Idling Good for Your Car’s Engine? BY DEIDRE PARKER

I remember first learning to drive. It was a cold Georgia morning when my Dad handed me the keys to his 1972 Pontiac Grand Prix. We bundled in our warmest clothes, and ran to the car to warm it up before heading to an empty parking lot, where I would practice parallel parking. After letting the car idle for 5 minutes or so, the heat was just beginning to flow from the air vents when we took off. Thinking back on those times always warms my heart, but having worked in the automotive industry all these years, I’ve learned a few things about cars. Back then, the correct thing was to let your vehicle idle before driving it. Engines were carbureted and not nearly as smart as today's vehicles. When it’s cold, gasoline and air mix differently, and a carbureted system won't adjust for that. Warming your vehicle before you drove it was the best way to ensure proper engine operation. With modern technology, the fuel and air mixture is highly controlled to ensure the fuel is being spent as efficiently as possible. The temperature of the gasoline doesn’t matter as much, because the vehicle is going to make corrections for colder weather by adding less air to the mix. While it definitely is more comfortable to drive in a warm vehicle, there are negative effects of letting a car idle.

Inside your vehicle’s engine, there are several metal pistons that move up and down in metal columns (the engine block). These pieces of metal are separated by a part called rings (metal rings that go around the pistons). The rings keep the pistons from touching the engine block and spread oil around to ensure maximum lubrication. When the oil is cold, it takes longer to completely coat the engine block. And, while the oil isn’t completely covering the engine block, microscratches will occur. So, while the engine is smart enough to account for inefficiencies in the gas-air mix, the colder and thicker oil doesn’t lubricate the engine as well, and will cause wear on your engine. Repeat this often enough, and you will have significant wear. The best thing to do is simply start driving at a gentle pace while the engine warms up. As always, if you are experiencing serious issues, you should stop by a certified auto repair mechanic, who can test, verify and share pictures of what they find with you.

The best thing to do is simply start driving at a gentle pace while the engine warms up.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Treat Hearing Loss Sooner Than Later BY DR. MARY SWANTEK

Now that 2021 is underway, it is a good time to reflect on the previous year, especially the past few months. How did the holidays go? Were you able to follow along with family conversations, or did you feel left out because you couldn’t hear what was being said? Not being able to hear can lead to negative consequences, such as reduced social interactions, depression and cognitive decline. The first step to determine if you need hearing healthcare is to have your hearing checked by a licensed doctor of audiology. This is a quick and painless office visit to establish a hearing baseline that can be used to compare to future tests. At age 50, you should have an initial hearing test. If it is determined you have hearing loss that can be treated with hearing aids, your audiologist can talk to you about your options. Sometimes, hearing loss is better treated with medication or surgery, at which point you will be referred to an ear, nose and throat physician. It is important to remember that the sooner your hearing loss is treated, the more successful hearing aids will be. If you are on the fence about having your hearing checked, ask yourself these questions:

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

• Do people seem to mumble or speak in a softer voice than they used to? • Do you feel tired or irritable after a lengthy conversation? • Do you sometimes miss key words in a sentence or frequently ask people to repeat themselves? • When you are in a group or crowded area, is it difficult to follow the conversation? • Do you need to turn the sound up on the TV or radio louder than your family likes? • Is carrying on a telephone conversation difficult? • Has someone close to you mentioned you may have a problem hearing?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it’s time to schedule a hearing evaluation.

Dr. Mary Swantek joined North Georgia Audiology in 2019. She earned her doctorate degree from the University of Florida and her bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State University.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT • The business.

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“Such a great space! Plenty of options for folks looking for a community workspace in a modern, high-tech and collaborative environment.”

A few of the perks of renting office space at The Innovation Spot include the ability to end at-home distractions while surrounded by like-minded professionals, and enjoy a shorter commute. Executive suites offer fully furnished private offices with ergonomic electric sit/stand desks to increase innovation, efficiency and productivity. The perks are extensive, from free coffee and high-speed secure WiFi to state-of-the-art technology. Everything is taken care of for the member; just come in, sit down, and work.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Circle of Friends Offers Safe Community, Job Opportunities BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Alex Bends, a member of Circle of Friends, lives life with several disabilities. She is autistic, bipolar, and has Crohn’s disease, along with other challenges. After feeling broken and like the weird kid, she said everything changed for her when she found the nonprofit Circle of Friends. “Now I don’t have to wonder if someone’s out there, if someone understands me. Now I have a whole community of people who do.” “We don’t want to live in sterile hospitals,” Alex said. “We don’t want to live in buildings where everything we do is monitored and controlled. We want freedom. We want to be normal. We are humans, and we deserve to be treated as such.”

Alex Bends loves her job as barista. 56

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Circle of Friends (COF) exists to transform environments of isolation into communities of inclusion by creating opportunities for connection, purpose and belonging in three ways: 1. Social engagement (visit circleoffriendsinc.org for bi-monthly meeting details) 2. Supportive employment 3. Affordable community housing “These days the world needs a community like Mayberry,” said Stephen Taylor, executive director of COF. “A return to simpler times, where everyone is included, cares for each other and has their place.” Stephen, born profoundly deaf, understands the daily challenges of living with a disability. He has dedicated his life to bridging the gaps between the disabilities community, the church, and the world. Building a modern day Mayberry through COF, where people like Alex can flourish, fuels his passion to keep serving. Circle of Friends began in 2010 with the first goal — social gatherings. Led by Diane and Glenn Keen (COF co-founders) they meet at Hickory Flat United Methodist Church. A group of parents and their children, with unique needs, gets together twice a month to socialize and go on

At The Circuit Cafe, this circle of friends are, from left: Joanne Salomone, board member; Diane Keen, founder; Alex Bends, barista; Stephen Taylor, executive director; Bryan Nance, barista.

outings. Diane holds a doctorate of nursing degree from Kennesaw State University and has committed all of her research to the field of intergenerational, supportive living communities for adults with disabilities. Diane and Glenn’s son, Haden, has high-functioning autism and is an active member of Circle of Friends. After a Town Hall held in the summer of 2019 at Hickory Flat UMC, a survey of the young adults was made to guide the development of goal No. 3: affordable community housing. Work is underway to make that happen. To meet the second goal of supportive employment, COF is opening a coffee shop inside The Circuit, Cherokee County’s first co-working space located in Chattahoochee Technical College at One Innovation Way, in downtown Woodstock. If all goes as planned, the grand opening will happen Feb. 15. The café will serve Cherokee-based Alma Coffee and will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays – Fridays. The shop also will feature a variety of signature teas and smoothies along with seasonal baked goods. “Circle of Friend’s commitment to serving the special needs community brings a unique synergy to The Circuit,”

said COED President Misti Martin. “Centered around a student center and supportive coworking community, the new café will thrive with the support of entrepreneurs and young people that work in the space.” COF’s Alex is thrilled about her new job as a barista. Another friend and barista, Bryan Nance, said, “Circle of Friends gives me a chance to make new friends. With the coffee shop opening I will be able to have a job and learn new skills and become more independent. I look forward to the time the housing is built to be able to live on my own.” To donate or learn more about how to become a part of this life-changing endeavor, visit: circleoffriendsinc. org, or email: info@circleoffriendsinc.org. Like and share their Facebook and Instagram pages @ CircleofFriends.LivingwithPurpose. Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. She loves serving at Woodstock City Church. Connect with her at www.susanbrowningschulz.com.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Budget Will be a Priority for Legislature BY CHARLICE BYRD

On Monday, Jan. 11, the Georgia General Assembly convened to commence the first year of the two-year biennial session. Members are elected in even-numbered years, and are sworn in and seated the following January. The Georgia Constitution requires that we enter into a legislative session by the second Monday in January each year. The constitution also sets 40 days as the maximum number of days of session each year. Legislative sessions are arranged in two-year periods that line up with the election cycle. This year’s session will be the first half of the full 2021-2022 session, and the second half will begin in January, 2022. First and foremost, I want to thank you for placing your trust in me to represent District 20. This session will have some notable differences, particularly as we implement precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The first week begins with swearing in all General Assembly members, including our newest House members. After all House members are sworn in, we begin the process of electing the House’s leadership, the speaker of the house and the speaker pro tem, who are voted on by all House members. Once we settle these housekeeping matters, the session’s real work begins. The budget will be one of the highest priorities this session, as we deal with the repercussions of COVID-19 and its impact on Georgians and their lives. Over the past few years, thanks to a reduction in the state income tax rate, Georgia experienced lagging state revenues.

Because of this, state lawmakers prepared for budget cuts throughout state government. The governor’s office gave instructions to state agencies to submit net-neutral budgets matching the current fiscal year. Even so, legislators still are expected to make some budget reductions. Georgia’s revenues through the first five months of the 2021 fiscal year are up by more than $551 million, compared with the same period last year. We also will turn our attention to election law, and giving Georgians renewed confidence in our election process’ security and accuracy. Legislators are determined to review the state’s voter registration, absentee ballot and early voting policies. We will continue our efforts to lower health care costs, which have taken on renewed importance during the pandemic. Additionally, we will support our businesses and schools as they seek to operate safely while providing vital services to all Georgians. It is an honor to work for you and this great state. If you have any feedback, do not hesitate to call 404-557-2218, email charlice@charlicebyrd.com, or engage on Facebook. If you would like to receive email updates, please visit my website, CharliceByrd.com, to sign up for my newsletter.

We will continue our efforts to lower health care costs...

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

State Rep. Charlice Byrd is a longtime resident of Woodstock, who previously served in the Georgia House of Representatives 2005-2013, when she was named 2007 Biotechnology Innovation Organization’s National Legislator of the Year.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Business is Blooming

Back row, from left: Ashley Henson, Tatyana Busik, Lisa Jordan, Emily Pond, Ashley Merckling, Jordan Schaefer, Dawn Futch, Tara Kerr, Amber Sass, Nikki Russo. Front row, from left: Janna Mehlberg, Anna Raudabaugh, Lauren Wheeler.

PHTOOS BY J. KING IMAGES

ven in the middle of a pandemic, Olive and Bloom Hair Studio has managed to thrive. Owners Emily Pond and Ashley Henson feel this is due largely to the salon’s business model – assembling a group of independent stylists. “When creating Olive and Bloom, we had a vision and a dream to help hair stylists bloom,” Henson said. “In an atmosphere that is warm and welcoming, we have inspired seasoned stylists to become independent. In doing so, stylists can set their own hours, allowing more time with their families. I believe this industry should and could offer both.” “With more than 34 years of combined experience, including corporate office and sales positions in the beauty industry, Ashley and I were on a mission to help others grow their business and become their own bosses,” Pond said. Olive and Bloom, located in the Commons at Chastain Shopping Center in Kennesaw, specializes in all hair needs, including cutting, color, balayage, extension, Keratin treatment and full service waxing. “We opened three years ago after the decision to leave our salon,” Pond said. “We wanted to find a way to make clients and stylists both happy. By making the stylists independent, they’re able to create their own destiny. It makes them happy, which in turn, the client is left feeling happy and, like their customer service,

745 Chastain Road NW, #1110, Kennesaw, GA 678-742-7571 www.oliveandbloomhairstudio.com 60

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

g at Local Hair Salon expectations have been met to the fullest.” “Our mission at Olive and Bloom is to provide upscale salon products and services, which enhance our guests’ physical appearance, thereby heightening their self esteem and personal image,” Henson said. “Our guests are our number one priority.” Pond and Henson believe that the balance between beauty and sustainability can improve people’s lives and the world. By creating beauty, they want to encourage people to take care of themselves, the environment and what they love. For them, sustainability is about the responsibility they feel for themselves, the people they work with, their customers and the world in which we all live. “Olive and Bloom is a very special venture to me,” Henson said. “One that my family, and most importantly my granddaddy, has always encouraged and provided their utmost support. I am so thankful for all the support I have, and I thank God daily for the continued success of Olive and Bloom Hair Studio.” “Seeing the business model in full effect is amazing,” Pond said. “We started in a smaller operation with three stylists and within a year have grown to 13 stylists and are thriving during the pandemic while taking all the right precautions for everyone to feel safe. We are currently looking to grow more and need additional people for the team and are blooming once again.”

Client Reviews... “This place is beautiful. The chandelier is gorgeous. Very nice atmosphere that makes you feel at home. All in all, I had a wonderful experience here. The place is beautiful and relaxing. I actually recommend this place to anybody that wants to get a haircut or hair colored; it is awesome!” – Amanda L. “Olive and Bloom is an amazingly cute salon with lots of sustainable options and animal cruelty-free products!” – Allie C. “Great ambience for those of us who want to be pampered. Stylists are knowledgeable and patient. The space is open and inviting. I took my 3 year old to her first salon experience here, and she now wants to go every day.” – Kelly F.

Book a Stylist Today! 678-742-7571

Tatyana Busik, ext. *12 14 years experience

Dawn Futch, ext. *02 16 years experience

Ashley Henson, ext. *11 Co-Owner, 14 years experience

Lisa Jordan,ext. *06 18 years experience

Janna Mehlberg, ext. *11 2 years experience

Ashley Merckling, ext. *03 19 years experience

Emily Pond, ext. *01

Co-Owner, 20 years experience

Anna Raudabaugh, ext. *10 7 years experience

Nikki Russo, ext. *08

7 years experience

Amber Sass, ext. *05 15 years experience

Jordan Schaefer, ext. *04 7 years experience

Lauren Wheeler, ext. *09 15 years experience

“This salon did everything to make me feel safe during this pandemic. Went with my son to get haircuts and couldn’t be happier. I’ve been struggling finding someone who could cut around my cow licks and curls, and I wasn’t disappointed.” – Ben. J.

Online Booking: www.vagaro.com/oliveandbloomhairstudio Instagram:@oliveandbloomsalon

Melissa Kirk, ext. *07 15 years experience (not pictured with the group)

Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | February 2021

A Bright Start for Little Learners BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

The Cherokee County School District (CCSD) offers three preschool programs to serve our community’s littlest learners. The CCSD Preschool Program includes three tuition-free, accredited programs: Georgia Lottery Pre-K, Head Start and Special Education Preschool. All CCSD preschool students enjoy a day of learning and fun in a class led by a certified teacher with a paraprofessional assistant. They prepare for kindergarten with lessons on shapes, colors, letters and numbers; art, music and science hands-on activities; and learn to use a computer and tablet. Learning through play is an important part of every day with indoor centers and outdoor playground time, as is developing routines and understanding how to make friends and cooperate with others. The programs are overseen by Principal Debbie Ritter and Assistant Principal Angela Moody. Special Education Preschool begins on a child’s third birthday, which allows for a seamless transition from the state’s Babies Can’t Wait program. In addition

Dr. Brian Hightower meets a preschooler in the Georgia Lottery Pre-K program at R.M. Moore. 62

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Preschoolers at the Ralph Bunche Center in Canton enjoy time outdoors.

to regular preschool curriculum, students receive individualized services to meet their needs, such as speech, occupational and physical therapy, and have the option of riding a special education school bus. This program is at Ralph Bunche Center in Canton, Holly Springs Preschool Center at Holly Springs Elementary School STEM Academy, Johnston Preschool Center at Johnston Elementary School in Woodstock, and Oak Grove Preschool at Oak Grove Elementary Fine Arts Academy in southwest Cherokee. More details about the program and the special education assessment process, which can evaluate your child if you’re concerned about developmental milestones, are online at https://bit.ly/CCSDspecialpre. Head Start offers families who meet income eligibility requirements the opportunity to begin their child’s education early, with classes for 3- and 4-year-olds that follow the same hours as elementary school. Parents drop off and pick up on a car-rider schedule, and students receive free breakfast and lunch. This program is at Johnston Preschool Center and Ralph Bunche Center. Enrollment opens in late winter/

early spring with details posted at www.cherokeek12.net. The Georgia Lottery Pre-K program is offered at Ball Ground Elementary STEM Academy, Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy, Oak Grove Elementary Fine Arts Academy, R.M. Moore Elementary STEM Academy, Johnston Elementary Preschool Center and Ralph Bunche Center. The program serves children who will be 4 on or before Sept. 1 of the school year for which they are enrolling. Since capacity is limited by state funding, CCSD uses a lottery drawing to determine enrollment. Applications are accepted from February to early March, with the lottery drawing in mid-March. Priority is given to students who live in the elementary school’s attendance area. Enrollment details are announced on www.cherokeek12.net. More information, including center addresses and phone numbers, is at https://bit.ly/CCSDpreschool. Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

River Ridge High flag football team members, from left: Grace Hamrick, Penelope Newberry, Ryann Hutcheson, Haley Warholak, Shelby Carlson, Brooke Scepaniak, Zoey Myrick, Kathryn Hutchinson, Molly Hutchinson, Brenna Martin and Breona Holley.

Flag Football Off to Fast Start in Cherokee BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

Creekview High senior Sofia Jimenez and flag football Coach Elyse Szczepanski. 64

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Cherokee County School District’s Flag Football program scored big in its first official season as a statewide fully sanctioned competition sport. Four Cherokee County School District (CCSD) high schools’ teams played in December in the first round of the state playoffs in the Georgia High Schools Association’s inaugural season for the sport: Cherokee, River Ridge, Woodstock and Sequoyah. In fact, Sequoyah not only

Sequoyah team members show off their medals.

qualified, the team also won the Area 6 title! Cherokee, Sequoyah and Woodstock advanced to the Sweet 16 round. Tonya Sebring, the school district’s supervisor of student activities and athletics, led the charge to kick off the sport in the county, with a clublevel season held last school year. Only six school districts in Georgia — including Cherokee County — participated in this test run. Our county’s flag football league received financial assistance from the Atlanta Falcons organization and the Arthur Blank Foundation, and won over a new fan base in the community. This sponsorship covered fees for referees, field costs, jerseys, equipment, athletic trainers, administrator fees and coaching stipends for participating districts.

“I am excited to see these programs build on what they started at the club level last season. The league was a huge success and a catalyst for sanctioning the sport by GHSA,” Sebring said. “Flag football is up and coming in our state, and our CCSD teams have played an integral part in the GHSA sanctioning of the sport.” All six CCSD high schools field teams of 20-30 players for the 7-on-7 format, which is played on a regular football field with slightly altered dimensions. Last season, 50 teams played within their own counties, with the county champions eligible to compete in a state championship game at MercedesBenz Stadium. Sequoyah won the county championship last season and played in the state semifinals. More than 100 teams played against schools from their GHSA division in the fall of 2020, with the opportunity for area and state championships. “Seeing the positive influence this sport has on the players and the community is inspiring. The girls stand tall with pride and enthusiasm while receiving recognition from their families and friends in the stands,” said Amanda Dinkel, manager of community relations for the Atlanta Falcons. “We see the organic growth

of the sport through their desire to play, and we are honored to have brought this opportunity to our communities, and hope to continue this forward momentum, bringing the sport to other states.” The coaches of the CCSD teams are: Thomas Stringfellow at Cherokee; Elyse Szczepanski at Creekview; Amanda Massey at Etowah; Mark Lewis at River Ridge; Emily Ryan at Sequoyah, and Pete Manderano at Woodstock. CCSD Superintendent Brian V. Hightower is a big fan of the flag football program and loves to cheer on the student athletes. “We’re so proud of our outstanding players and their coaches, and are deeply grateful for the sponsors, boosters and parent volunteers who have helped make the program so successful,” he said. “We can’t wait for next season, as we know this sport will continue to grow and provide more of our female student athletes with opportunities to play, learn and succeed.” Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

EVERYDAY

Jonah Moon

Everyday Angels simply serves as a conduit between our compassionate community and our neighbors, who find themselves in often dire seasons of life. God has blessed us with the medium to inform, inspire, and move our readers as we come together to serve our community. It is an honor and blessing to serve Cherokee County. On these pages, we share updates from some of our 2020 features.

Jonah Moon was diagnosed with leukemia.

In August, Jonah Moon, 2, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). “Jonah is moving along in treatment. This current phase involves a lot of hospitalization, and it’s been pretty tough for us, especially during the holidays. We’re about halfway through this phase, and hopefully, won’t have to be hospitalized anymore after the next few weeks. We’re so blessed and grateful for people who have shown us so much love throughout this journey so far,” Melissa, Jonah’s mom, said.

Bill Okon Last February, we featured the story of Bill Okon, 41-yearold husband and father, who suffered burns on 60% of his body requiring major surgeries and skin grafts. “Bill has gone back to work, and is doing better than ever in some respects. His hands suffer as the Bill Okon and wife, Cameron, before his skin grafts are so fragile, but we accident. are just so grateful. We hope to be able to pay it forward by helping another family in the next year. Thank you so much for all you have done. Our compassionate community helped us survive such a scary time,” said Cameron, Bill’s wife. Jessica Blake continues to heal from her injuries.

Jessica Blake

Israel Everett

On Sept. 11, 2020, Jessica Blake, 19, was a passenger in a fatal car accident on I-75. “Jessica and I would like to thank our wonderful community for the outpouring of local support during this emotional time. I am pleased to tell you that in December, Jessica was released from her neurosurgeon, thoracic surgeon and neurologist’s care. Jessica will have another surgery on Jan. 11 on her arm, which we pray will allow her to have better mobility, and then she will resume her stringent occupational and physical therapies. She still has a long way to go physically and emotionally, but, with God’s grace, we are confident this too shall pass. Our community has been an amazing blessing to us,” mom, Laura said.

On May 30, 2020, Israel Everett, 8, was diagnosed with leukemia, (MPAL), a rare and aggressive type of cancer that attacks the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow. “Israel is doing well. He is finding it hard to balance the visit to the clinic with the demands of virtual learning. He is on clinical trial chemo because he had an allergic reaction to one of the chemo treatments. His last bone marrow results showed 0% leukemia cells and his spinal taps have been clear with no leukemia present. We thank God every day for the way Israel is responding, and for meeting all of our needs. The love and compassion that everyone has shown is beyond what we expected. We are so very grateful,” Israel’s mom Tiffany said.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Israel Everett’s treatment has been successful.

Cindi Dornellas and her daughters.

Cindi Dornellas In June, Cindi shared her personal story of her husband’s sudden, unexpected passing and the raw and emotional challenges she and her daughters were facing. Throughout the challenges of 2020, she yearned for the security that she once had with her husband, but our community reminded her of God’s love for her. “We are doing as well as expected as we continue to face life challenges. I am trying to sell my home – our nest egg - and move forward as I remain strong for my girls. We are forever grateful for everyone’s love, support and encouragement,” Cindi said. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill

Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 www.cancunmexicangrill.net

Cheeseburger Bobby’s

American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 www.cheeseburgerbobbys.com

China Fun

Chinese 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671 www.chinafunwoodstock.com

Donovan’s Irish Cobbler American Irish 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763 www.donovansirishcobbler.com

El Ranchero

Mexican 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 www.elranchero8.com

Family Tradition

Homestyle Cooking 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885 www.familytradition.net

GAMEDAY Fresh Grill American/Burgers 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754 www.gamedayfresh.com

Izumi Asian Bistro

Thai/Sushi/Chinese 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899 www.iloveizumi.com

JD’s Bar-B-Que

Barbeque 6426 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 160 678-445-7730 www.jdsbbq.com

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Johnny’s Pizza

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 www.johnnyspizza.com

Kani House

Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 www.kanihouse.com

Keegan's Irish Pub

Irish/Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 770-627-4393 www.keegansirishpub.net

KPOP BBQ and Bar Korean BBQ 1105 Parkside Lane 770-485-3055

La Parrilla

Mexican 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606 www.laparrilla.com

LongHorn

Steakhouse 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494 www.longhornsteakhouse.com

Maple Street Biscuit Co. Southern 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, #160 678-903-2161 www.maplestreetbiscuits.com

Mellow Mushroom

Pizza/Pasta 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331 www.mellowmushroom.com

NaNa Thai Eatery

Thai 2360 Towne Lake Pkwy. Suite 110 770 -485-6008

NY Style Deli & Pizza Pizza/Subs/ Bakery 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004 www.pizzabymansi.com

Panera Bread

Bakery/Soups/Sandwiches 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809 www.panerabread.com

Peking & Tokyo

Chinese/Japanese 200 Parkbrooke Drive, #160 770-591-8858 www.pekingandtokyoga.com

Song’s Garden

Chinese 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #320 770-928-8387 www.songsgarden.com

Tavern at Towne Lake

American 1003 Towne Lake Hills East 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com

The Place

Bar/Grill 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901 www.theplacebargrill.com

Tuscany

Italian 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888 www.mytuscanyrestaurant.com

Volcano Steak & Sushi Asian 2990 Eagle Drive, #100, 101 678-498-7888 www.volcanowoodstock.com

WOW Pho & Grill

Vietnamese 6242 Bells Ferry Road, #118 678-383-6099 On Facebook at: Wow Pho & Grill

Real Estate Market Continues to Thrive BY JASON WILSON

Last year, the pandemic brought many changes to how real estate agents everywhere provide services to clients. For example, many have developed variations of virtual appointments for buyers and sellers. Zoombased appointments allow for time to discuss the wants, needs and motivations for moving forward with the sale of a client’s most important asset. Additionally, showing appointments have changed to include precautions such as masks, gloves and hand sanitizer. Unlike before, we are seeing a rise of instances where buyers are closing on properties without having seen the property. While this is different for us all, our primary responsibility, and that of all Realtors, continues to be helping clients navigate the sales process, according to their comfort level and concern for safety. With many safety precautions in place, the real estate market has held, and even strengthened. The record low interest rates and a severe housing inventory shortage across metro Atlanta have contributed to the best seller’s market we have seen in years. We have witnessed the number of homes sold in the Towne Lake area increasing by 20.3% in the third quarter of 2020, as compared with the third quarter of 2019. The active listing inventory available in this area also has decreased, creating a 0.7 month’s supply

of homes available in the Towne Lake area. This means that, if no other homes come on the market as of today, it would take less than a month to sell off the current inventory at the current rate of selling. If there ever was a time to consider selling your home, now is it. According to First Multiple Listing Service (FMLS), in the third quarter of 2019, metro Atlanta’s number of active listings was 14,263. In the third quarter of 2020, the number of active listings plummeted to 7,098, causing a 50.3% decline in active inventory. With the number of homes sold up 9.8% overall from 2019 to 2020 in the third quarter, the market currently has 1.3 months worth of inventory. This is supply and demand 101. The median sales price is around $300,000, and we currently are seeing an overall increase of the median sales price of 12.6%.

If there ever was a time to consider selling your home, now is it.

*FMLS data for single family detached residences. Data is believed to be accurate, but is not warranted. Data provided by ChartMaster Services, LLC third quarter 2020 results. Ursula and Associates (Jason Wilson and Ursula Butler) is a real estate team, associated with Keller Williams Realty Partners, that has specialized in Woodstock and surrounding areas since 1996.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Creating a Safe Spot for Spot BY ANN LITREL

Kimba. Rocky. Muffy. These are beloved family pets who belonged to our friends and neighbors - all dogs who were lost to cancer. While it’s impossible to know what contributed to their disease, toxin exposure for pets is increasing, and at the top of the list of threats is lawn chemicals.

Just because it’s sold, doesn’t mean it’s safe.

Two studies, one from Tufts University, the other from Purdue University, join the growing body of research that shows a link between cancer in pets and the chemicals used in our lawns. Exposure to common lawn chemicals was shown, for instance, to raise the risk of canine malignant melanoma (CML) by as much as 70% (See the Tufts University study, “Household Chemical Exposures and the Risk of Canine Malignant Lymphoma,” for the specific chemicals cited, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov) Dogs’ exposure happens through ingestion, inhalation, and also transdermally (through the skin). In the Purdue study, even dogs from homes without lawn chemicals were contaminated, since products can be carried up to 50 feet by the wind (Search for “Detection of Herbicides in the Urine of Pet Dogs Following Home Lawn Chemical Application” at www.vet.purdue.edu). Right now, before the growing season starts, is a good time to consider changes you can make to protect your pet’s health. If you use a professional lawn care company, contact their experts to find out what products they use.

Start with making your own yard safe.

ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM

Recently I took a few steps to make my own yard healthier for people, pets and wildlife. The first change was shrinking my turf area to a narrow strip by the sidewalk. This reduced not only the chemicals but also the lawn maintenance needed for my yard. (Less mowing means lower CO2 emissions by my lawn guy – surprisingly, a gas mower emits 10 times more CO2 than a new automobile, whose engine emissions are regulated). The second step I took for a healthy yard was to stop lawn chemical treatments. This included commercial fertilizers, pre-emergents and

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

pesticides. Moving forward, the only product I will use in 2021 will be an organic, slow-release fertilizer. We will see how that goes – will I be able to avoid the dreaded “notice” from the homeowner’s association about weeds in my de-toxified yard?

Tips to reduce toxin exposure

Regardless of what your neighbors are doing in their yards, you can still take steps to help keep your pet safe this summer:

Limit your pet’s access to any turf area that you cannot confirm is chemical-free.

Avoid products with insect growth regulators (IGR’s). These are used in lawn and garden products, as well as in certain flea and tick spot treatments.

Increase the number of baths and foot rinses during the growing season, when chemical application is highest in outdoor landscaping.

Request a “safe spot” in your community.

If you live in a community with shared common areas, as I do, ask about creating a “safe zone” for pets - a natural turf area where dogs can catch Frisbees, do their business, and not be exposed to toxic chemicals. If you live in a subdivision where a high priority is placed on maintaining perfect turf, be aware that a pet-safe area, while it can be kept edged and mowed, may have patches of clover or violets. (These lawn flowers were a common sight in decades past when chemicals were not so widely used on turf.) A sign, “No Chemicals – Safe Zone for Pets” will help alert residents to this area where they can take their pet to safely play in the grass. Consider contacting your homeowner’s association or landscaping committee about creating this pet-safe option for your neighborhood.

Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.

Because CTC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization your donations are tax deductible.

Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Around & About FEBRUARY

Splish Splash Break Camp at the 15-19 Cherokee County Aquatic Center gives

students ages 5-13 fun activities to look forward to during school breaks. For details, email Lauren Voss at latvoss@cherokeega.com.

Non-Stop Action Break Camp at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency rec center, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. for kindergarten through age 12. $170 per child. For details, email Lauren Voss at latvoss@cherokeega.com.

An Arbor Day celebration in Woodstock will give away 700 seedlings of dogwood, redbud and bald cypress trees at three locations: City Hall Annex at 12453 Highway 92, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dean’s Store at 8588 Main St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and William G. Long Senior Center at 223 Arnold Mill Road. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Guns & Hoses 5k Run/Walk and Fun Run is a fundraiser for the Cherokee Sheriff ’s

Foundation (supported by the Guns team) and Goshen Valley Boys Ranch (Hoses team). During registration, participants choose a team to represent; a portion of their race fee will go to that charity. Early registration ends Feb. 5; late registration is Feb. 6-19. No day-of-race registration. The Fun Run starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by the run/walk at 8 a.m. For details, email Bailey Barcomb at bmbarcomb@cherokeega.com.

Pruning ornamental shrubs is the topic of the February live virtual lunch and learn seminar, noon-1:30 p.m., presented by the UGA Master Gardeners Extension Volunteers of Cherokee County. Other scheduled seminars include “Secrets to Success in Summer Vegetable Gardens” on March 25, “Cutting Gardens” on April 30 and “Container Gardening” on May 28. All classes are free. Pre-registration is required at https://bit.ly/3nCVNRC.

MARCH

The Market @ The Mill begins, continues first

Unwind Wednesdays, is a new event for 2021,

Tuesdays each month through October. Hours are 5:30-8:30 p.m. Details available on Facebook at The Mill On Etowah page.

and features food trucks and market night at Veterans Park. Continues the first Wednesdays of each month through October. For details, follow the Revival Events Group page on Facebook.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

MARCH

Celebration of Education Gala, a 13 2021 black-tie event, is a fundraiser for the Cherokee

County Educational Foundation, will be held at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center. Last year’s gala raised $80,000; all proceeds are funneled to the students and staff of the Cherokee County School District through grant programs. For more information, visit www.cherokeecountyeducationalfoundation.org.

18, 25, April 1

COED’s Cherokee Film Summit will be held in

three parts. Launched by COED as an initiative of Cherokee By Choice in January 2019, the summit was designed to strengthen Georgia’s film industry pipeline. Through power-packed networking opportunities and a variety of breakout sessions led by dynamic speakers and panelists, the event will build meaningful connections between the film industry and community. For more information, visit www.cherokeega.org.

Egg Hunt starts at 6 p.m. at 19 Flashlight Cherokee Veterans Park for children up to age

12. $10 per child. Event includes food trucks, vendors, music, face painting, crafts, kid zone and a visit with the Easter Bunny. Sponsored by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. Registration is open, contact bmbarcomb@cherokeega.com.

The Sutallee Trace 4- and 7-mile Trail Run opens the 2021 series, taking place at

Boling Park in Canton. Registration details available at www.mountaingoatadventures.com.

ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS

Feb. 12

www.elmstreetarts.org

iThink Improv Troupe is back and ready to get its audiences rolling down the aisle with laughter, and you'll have plenty of room to do that spaced out in the theater. Recommended for ages 10 and older (content).

March 11-14

Elm Street has postponed “Freaky Friday: The Musical” (originally scheduled Feb. 4-7) to March. Impacted ticket buyers will automatically have their tickets transferred and will be contacted to verify changes and process any ticket requests.

CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS AGENCY 770-924-7768 www.playcherokee.org

Cherokee County Aquatic Center

March 27: Eggs-traordinary Eggs-travaganza 2-5 p.m. $10 per child

May 29: Oasis Outdoor Pool opens June 14-18: Water Safety Week at the Oasis June 20: Dad’s Day at the Oasis- Buy one kid’s admission and get dad’s admission FREE!

July 2, 30: Family Fun Night at the Oasis

(on the 30th donate a school supply and receive $2 off admission)

July 18: Mom’s Day at the Oasis- Buy one kid’s admission and get mom’s admission FREE!

Dec. 11: Swim with the Grinch 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child

FRESH START CHEROKEE @ THE CIRCUIT

CANNED MEATS PASTA SAUCE · BEANS CORN · GREEN BEANS CONDENSED SOUP CHUNKY SOUP · CHILI CANNED PASTA · MAC & CHEESE · BEEF STEW Our urgent food supply is disappearing quickly! Can you donate today?

MARIETTA · 1280 Field Pkwy CANTON · 111 Brown Ind. Pkwy

www.mustministries.org

1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600. www.circuitwoodstock.com/events.

1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC) Cherokee Held in person, and on Facebook Live. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Visit www.1millioncups.com/Cherokee for more details.

Learning Community

Book study meets the second Thursday of the month at the Circuit, at 10:30 a.m.

CHEROKEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.cherokeechamber.com

Good Morning Cherokee breakfasts held at

7 a.m. monthly, except January and July, Feb. 4, March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3, Aug. 5, Sept. 2, Oct. 7, Nov. 4, Dec. 2. Meeting at First Baptist Church Woodstock February through June.

Power Hour Networking, held at the Chamber

office, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton, 10-11 a.m. Feb. 11, March 9, April 16, May 4, June 17, July 29, Aug. 2, Sept. 16, Oct. 5, Nov. 10 and Dec. 16. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the November "Seasons" competition.

Color Print

1st Eillene Kirk “First Snow”

2nd Dean Kelley “Season of Color”

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

3rd Dayle Gerosky “Autumn Palette”

Monochromatic

1st Eillene Kirk â&#x20AC;&#x153;Winter Walkâ&#x20AC;?

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. Please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net for more information.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons

J Christopher’s

Salt Factory Pub

Century House Tavern

J Miller’s Smokehouse

Semper Fi Bar and Grille

American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 www.canyonsfresh.com Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 www.centuryhousetavern.com

Copper Coin Coffee

BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 www.jmillerssmokehouse.com

American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com

MadLife Studios

Freight Kitchen & Tap

Partners II Pizza

Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 www.freightkitchen.com

Gyro Aegean Grill

Greek/Mediterranean 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-485-5236 https://gyroageangrill.com/

Habanero’s Taqueria

Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 www.habanerostaqueria.com

Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 www.icemartinibar.com

Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 www.ippspastaria.com

Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 www.jchristophers.com

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com

Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 www.partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga

Pure Taqueria

Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 www.puretaqueria.com/woodstock

Prime 120

Steakhouse 120 Chambers St. 770-800-8049 www.prime120steakhouse.com

Reel Seafood

Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 www.reel-seafood.com

Rootstock

Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstocknow.com

Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 www.saltfactorypub.com/woodstock American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 www.semperfibarandgrille.com

Tea Leaves & Thyme

English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 www.tealeavesandthyme.com

The Daily Draft Tap Room and Bar American 8594 Main St. 770-783-2799 thedailydraft.net

Truck & Tap

Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 www.truckandtap.com

Vingenzo’s

Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 www.vingenzos.com

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM

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

Visit website for more information on these or other trail projects. www.greenprintsalliance.org

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail

trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along Noonday Creek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile flat paved trail is

Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails.

located in Olde Rope Mill Park on the banks of Little River. 78

Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile

begins at M arket Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street. It continues toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along

Building Empathy Through the Arts BY JUSTIN SPAINHOUR-ROTH

“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view ... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” — Atticus Finch, from “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee It’s been about a decade since I read “To Kill a Mockingbird” in my freshman-year English class, but this is a quote that has stuck with me ever since, and I find myself returning to it constantly. Books, like any form of art, have a way of beautifully articulating an idea for us. We better understand the spirit and meaning behind something when it’s presented in a bit friendlier or more digestible way, like a book, a play or through a piece of music. I don’t think this is sheer coincidence. At Elm Street, we believe the arts give us the ability to empathize with situations, stories and people who are different from us, by allowing us the chance to step into their shoes and see the world from their perspective. “Freaky Friday” is a great example of that — quite literally! Teenager Ellie doesn’t relate to her mother, Katherine, and vice versa. It isn’t until they swap bodies, walk in each other’s shoes, and see things from the other person’s eyes that they begin to understand each other. I think there’s something so powerful about that. We developed the Lantern Series to do the same, by bringing in an eclectic mix of genres, sounds and cultures to build community around music. To date, we’ve had groups play in the style of Afro-Celtic funk with Soulsha (think bagpipes and African drums all behind a dance beat); cellist-singer-songwriter Shana Tucker’s seamless blending of chamber music with jazz, funk, rhythm and blues, and more to make ChamberSoul; and the warmer weather in March will welcome Time for Three to our stage on the Elm Street Event Green. This trio brings together Americana, modern pop and classical music, with their acoustic chamber set and captivatingly rich harmonies. Aside from entertaining us, the arts allow us to think, and, most importantly, to feel. When we give ourselves permission to see the world from someone else’s perspective, only then do we truly connect with that person, and with the world around us, in unimaginable ways.

Justin Spainhour-Roth, marketing manager for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, has a bachelor of arts in communication in musical theater from Bowling Green State University. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Community of Faith

ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304, 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

Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108, www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 345 Parkway 575, Suite 100, 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 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415, www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100, www.hbcacworth.org 80

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723, www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324, www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org 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 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 Generations Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Suite 206, Canton g.church Grow Church 2510 E Cherokee Dr, Woodstock 770-693-1018 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

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

Sar Shalom 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock http://sarshalomgeorgia.org/

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540, 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, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org

Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722, www.stclementscanton.org

Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com

JEWISH

ROMAN CATHOLIC

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255, www.jewishwestcobb.com

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

Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247, www.ballgroundumc.org Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755, www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502, www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480, www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030, www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969, www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777, www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883, www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920, www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495, www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837, www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644, www.sixesumc.org Waleska 7340 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska 770-479-4428 www.waleskaumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533, www.emersonuu.org

OTHERS

Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766, www.abiding.church Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030, www.actionchurch.tv

Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628, www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193, www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170, www.lifechurchcanton.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964, www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 7745 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-2977, www.bpc.life 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 Engage Church 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock 678-445-8766 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.fivestonesga.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 Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500, www.hishandschurch.com 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 Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton www.lifebiblechurch.com

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

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 Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com 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 St., 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 Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100, www.unitynorth.org 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 TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Towne Lake Area Clubs & Organizations

CHARITABLE

Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org.

Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org.

HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org.

Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net.

Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges coaches, college, high school, junior high and youth level athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Steve Hyland. 770-789-7150. shyland@fca.org.

Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org.

Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org.

Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org.

Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com.

SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org.

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org. Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. 11 a.m. Saturdays at Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road.Woodstock. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com.

SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.

Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m. last Wednesday at New Life Church in Canton. 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton, GA 30102. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.

Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home.

Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org.

Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org.

Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.

Male Veteran Support Group

Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

BUSINESS

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: virtually noon-1:15 p.m. every Wednesday. Meeting details are on their website. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. Downtown Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap Phone: 770-241-0373 www.powercore.net The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com.

VETERANS SERVICE

American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366. Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Cherokee Veterans Community Support Groups for males and females meet on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursdays of the month at First Baptist Church Woodstock. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org. 678-494-2680. veteransministry@fbcw.net.

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

CIVIC & COUNTY

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at Canton Police Department 151 Elizabeth St., third floor training room. www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Firestorm Robotics FIRST Robotics Competition Team for High School Students in Etowah, Woodstock and River Ridge. Meets: 4-6 p.m. on Wednesdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Hwy 92 Ste 100 Acworth. 678-247-1972. www.firestormrobotics.org. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514. Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at The Arbor at Bridgemill, 700 Freedom Blvd, Canton. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

POLITICAL

Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com.

Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party P.O. Box 1267, Woodstock 678-721-1969. www.cherokeecountygop.com. Contact us to verify meetings, time and locations. Follow us on Facebook and twitter. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Firestorm Robotics Meets Wednesdays and Saturdays at Cherokee Makerspace, 6436 Highway 92, Suite 100, Acworth. 678-247-1972. firestormrobotics.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | February 2021

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

Advertisers

For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com

February 2021

ACCOUNTING

BEAUTY SALON

Accounting Connections, LLC O: 770-516-5987 C: 770-846-7799 www.accountingconnections.org

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

Kinsey CPA 770-932-8989 www.kinseycpa.com

Treasure Tax 678-856-4829 www.treasuretax.com

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com

Christian Brothers Automotive 678-904-9670 www.cbac.com/townelake

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

MOOD Salon 678-653-8444 www.moodsalonwoodstock.com

Olive & Bloom Hair Studio 678-742-7571 www.oliveandbloomhairstudio.com Online Booking: www.vagaro.com/ oliveandbloomhairstudio

BUSINESS SUPPORT Horizon Investigations & Background Screening 40 770-559-4412 www.horizonscreening.com Innovation Spot, The Inside front, 55 770-262-3668 www.theinnovationspot.com INWDSTK 67 www.inwdstk.org Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

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

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 37 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING

DENTAL

Polished Peach Car Wash 770-592-8102 www.polishedpeachcarwash.com

CHIROPRACTIC

AUDIOLOGY At Home Hearing Dr. Jan Henriques, 770-325-3763

Jian Kang Spa and Massage 770-779-9158 www.jiankangmassage.com

Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

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

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

Piano Lessons by Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com

ENTERTAINMENT Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org

TLBA Golf Tournament www.tlba.org

FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.citadelwealthcare.com

Woodstock Wealth Management 800-279-4468 www.wwmria.com

FITNESS 1

R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

Published by

www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com FUNERAL SERVICES Poole Funeral Home 678-932-2097 www.poolefuneralhome.net Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

LANDSCAPING 7

Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock

Southern Sky Outlet 678-842-8411 www.southernskyoutlet.com

NAIL SALON Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662

Marietta Eye Clinic 678-460-4810 www.mariettaeye.com

Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

OPTOMETRY

HOME DÉCOR

Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com

5 43

Abigail Peyton Photography www.apeytonphotography.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists Canton, East Ellijay: 678-493-2527 Kennesaw: 678-354-9821 Woodstock: 770-852-7740 www.cherokeelungandsleep.com

Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

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

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

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 59 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com

Optimal Performance Medicine 9 678-250-0700 www.optimalperformancemedicine.com

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 [675-8651] www.mrjunk1.com

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 58 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Scrappy’s Junk Removal Cover, 44, 45 678-330-9282 www.scrappysjunkremoval.com Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

INSURANCE Good Faith Health Insurance Brianna Johnson, 770-289-9231 www.goodfaithhealthinsurance.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

Clear Summit Realty Ken Jones, 770-842-4531 Ryan Jones, 678-327-9326 www.clearsummitrealty.com

Keller Williams, The Quick Group C: 770-366-8744 O: 678-494-0644 www.quicktogetitsold.com

Keller Williams , Ursula and Assoc. Back Cover Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com

REMAX Town & Country, Sarah Terrell 11 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net RESTAURANTS/CATERING

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill c: 678-634-5581 o: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com

Capital Mortgage Solutions 770-450-9717 www.cmshomeloans.com

Gyro Aegean Grill 770-485-5236 www.gyroaegeangrill.com

J.D.'s Bar-B-Que 678-445-7730 www.jdsbbq.com

SENIOR SERVICES The Reserve at Towne Lake 770-928-2440 www.reservetownelake.com

SPECIALTY FOOD The Butcher and A Baker 770-517-2225 www.thebutcherandabaker.com

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

Gift of Music, The 888-551-0077 www.giftofmusic.org

MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net

TOWNELAKER | February 2021

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