10
This coupon entitles you to
Downtown Woodstock
400 CHAMBERS STREET COFFEE · FOOD · BEER · WINE · SPIRITS · MUSIC
Live Music FIND US ON
THURSDAY, FRIDAY, AND SATURDAY NIGHTS, AND SUNDAY JAZZ AFTERNOONS.
%
OFF
your purchase at
Excludes alcohol Expires 7/30/19 No copies, please.
HONEST & RELIABLE CAR REPAIR Veteran Owned & Operated by:
Danny & Connie Branom
TOWNE LAKE
1930 Eagle Dr. (770) 926-4500 CBAC.com/TowneLake
FREE
$29.95
Spring Time Inspection
Conventional Oil Change Package
Valid at the Towne Lake location only. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 05/03/19
+ Tire Rotation Synthetics and diesels not included. Up to 5 qts. Valid at the Towne Lake location only. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 05/03/19
$69.95
Alignment Special Most vehicles. Valid at the Towne Lake location only. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 05/03/19
SAVE
$15 Off $150+ $25 Off $250+ $50 Off $500+ Valid at the Towne Lake location only. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 05/03/19
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
1
Contents
48 & 49 On the Cover The STEM Hangar Photo by Beth Fornuto
April 2019
16
18
32
Features
In Every Issue
Contributors
16 Farm Fresh
4 Around Towne
8 Celebrations
38 78 40 76 77 30 22 34 56 82 54 39 84 56 58 50 28 40 17 79 36 60 52 32 63 60 58
Insider info on farming in Cherokee, a list of the nearest markets, and a resource for food boxes.
42 Everyday Angels
18 Hoppy Hunting!
Grab those Easter baskets and head out to one of the many egg hunts in your neighborhood.
22 Storm Watch
Don’t be caught unprepared for unpleasant weather this spring.
44 Rob’s Rescues 46 Towne Lake Dining Guide 64 Community Calendar 70 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 72 Library Events 74 Ribbon Cuttings
24 Recycle Away on Earth Day
10 Community News
Chamber of Commerce, Woodstock and Canton make it easy to be green.
80 School News 86 Greenprints Trail Map 87 Recent Home Sales
32, 34 Pets with a Purpose
90 Clubs & Orgs
94 Directory of Advertisers
Yogi and Cobb have overcome many obstacles to live full lives while inspiring others.
92 Church Listings
Advertising Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com TowneLakerMagazine
2
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
@Townelaker
townelakermagazine
Don Akridge Paul Baumgartner Zach Blend Stacy Brown Siobhan Brumbelow Michael Caldwell Renee Cornelison Joni Gommo Dr. James Haley Barbara P. Jacoby Kurt & Sheila Johnson Harry Johnston Bryce Jones Dr. Ambre Kragor Dr. Sarah Licht Ann Litrel Calvin Moss Deidre Parker Liz Porter Bill Ratliff Susan Schulz Dr. Brian Seng Elisabeth Stubbs Teddy the Spaz Man Ashley Velez Shelley Winter Dr. Amber York
Three Convenient Locations: We are a full-service vascular surgery and endovascular therapy practice that specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins and arteries. Our compassionate, board-certified physicians, Dr. Catalin Harbuzariu, Dr. Edward Kang, Dr. Siddharth Patel, and Dr. Brooks Whitney bring years of experience working at some of the leading institutions in the field, and offer minimally-invasive, state-ofthe-art procedures to treat the entire scope of vascular diseases, from the simplest to the most complex. We offer three convenient locations to serve the communities throughout Greater Atlanta and North Georgia. We offer state-of-the-art care in providing the full-spectrum of vascular and endovascular services for:
• Aortic Aneurysms • Carotid Disease
• Peripheral Artery Disease • Renal & Mesenteric Disease
• Venous Disease • Dialysis Access • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
980 Johnson Ferry Rd. Suite 1040 Atlanta, GA 30342
460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 100 Canton, GA 30115
1505 Northside Blvd. Suite 2400 Cumming, GA 30041
770-292-3490
NVS-GA.com TOWNELAKER | April 2019
3
AROUND TOWNE
The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake
Letter From the Editor I know the key for determining if you’ve successfully downsized. Empty nesters, or families who just want to simplify and move to a smaller space, I’ll share this tip with you for free. If you can vacuum your entire house from one electrical plug, you’ve done it! Congratulations! No more lugging the vacuum up and down stairs. No more strategizing which plug to use to get the most cleaning distance. So, when you go house hunting, be sure to take your vacuum with you. Ignore the odd looks from the realtor; you are on a mission. You know the secret. I did find a downside to downsizing. You may need to take the extra money you save by having a smaller home and join a gym, since you won’t be running up and down steps every day. The other disadvantage I’ve learned in not having a basement is the lack of a sufficient storm shelter. In the home where we raised our kids, each time we heard the tornado siren, we’d run to the basement's safest room in the center of the house. I remember strapping on our youngest in her baby carrier while dragging the other two down the stairs. I’m wearing a child, holding a child, and Glenn is holding a child. Our pets - two cats and a dog - weren’t always as compliant. Our neighbors who lived in a ranch knew our basement door was unlocked if they needed to run across the yard to safety. Another perspective - the husband’s - is that if you can cut your yard in 15 minutes or less, you’ve downsized successfully. At least he still enjoys some grass. I’m glad his Florida roots didn’t take over and cause him to fill the yard with white rocks to get out of all the landscaping duties. Remember last month’s article about our 4-yearold neighbor Paddy, who takes our garbage can to the curb every week? I think Glenn’s counting the birthdays until Paddy is old enough to operate a lawn mower. It probably will be sooner than we think. This adorable young man has all the plastic toys - a leaf blower, trimmer and mower. For now, anyway. I need to watch him when Paddy turns 5. I can see a Home Depot gift card in his young future.
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
4
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
What’s Open Skin Essentials by Marilyn has relocated to Salon Suites Unit #28 at 1105 Parkside Lane, Woodstock. Owner Marilyn Rivera is a licensed esthetician who offers a variety of facials and beauty treatments. 770-928-1314. www.skinbymarilyn.com.
What’s Coming The Silver Bullet Express car wash, a three-minute car wash with three vacuums, will open at 2907 Eagle Drive. Prices will range from $8 to $15.
What’s New Technical Resource Solutions, a Canton business that offers managed IT solutions to large and small organizations, has opened a second location in Woodstock at 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100. 678-928-9491. www.technicalrs.com.
IN WDSTK Ribbon Cuttings
Torrid, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 30188 www.torrid.com
Cellairus, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 30188 www.cellairis.com
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
5
COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.
Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally
published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.
Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.
Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. 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 2019. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 12
America’s Community Magazine
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
7
Celebrations!
Candler Starr
April 9 Happy first birthday to our precious little girl! Love, Mama and Dada.
Colton
Happy fourth birthday on April 3! Love, Mommy and Daddy.
Cadence Marilyn Palm
Brielle Marie Palm
3 years old on Feb. 23. We are proud of you and love you so much! Grandma and Grandpa Nystrom.
Ansley
Happy 12th birthday! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Lauren.
Born Dec. 11, 2018 to Brian and Allison Palm. Sister to Cadence. Granddaughter to Bill and Linda Nystrom.
Kensley
Happy first birthday on April 12! Love, Mommy and Daddy.
Kathryn
Happy 10th birthday! Love, Daddy, Mommy and Jessica.
Saanvi
Happy eighth birthday! Our birthday wish for you is that you continue to love life and never stop dreaming. May beauty and happiness surround you, not only on your special day, but always. Lots and pots of love, Papa, Mummy, Dada, Dadi and Veer.
David and Donna Heckelmoser
Happy anniversary! Celebrating 35 years on April 7. “The best thing to hold onto in life, is each other.�
8
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Esteban Ortiz Garcia
April 5 Happy second birthday! We love you so much! Con Amor, Mom, Dad and Sebastian.
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com May deadline is April 10. Please specify TowneLaker.
Two Locations
Providing compassionate and comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Dr. Jamie Rollins and Dr. Nancy Doelling offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments, efficient follow up and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle.
NorthsideCherokeePediatrics.com
Holly Springs 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220 Holly Springs, GA 30115
678-388-5485 Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189
Northside/ Imag
770-852-7720 Exit 11 (Sixes Road)
HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE LAKE
Ros wel l Rd .
Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home
J
TOWNELAKER o|hn April 2019 so nF er ry
9
YOUR LOCAL NEWS
Hoses Dominate for Fifth Year Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services won the 2019 Guns and Hoses Run for the fifth consecutive year. The Hoses team had the most runners to sign up for the 13th annual event. The Hoses represented Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, which received a check for $5,364. The Guns (Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office) and Hoses each solicited registrations from runners to raise money for their charities; part of the registration fee was donated to the charities. According to Lindsey Collett, a representative with the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Agency, 437 runners signed up for the fire department, while 249 signed up with the sheriff’s office for a total of 686 runners. The Hoses team included 12 members of the Cherokee County Search and Rescue Team, and several boys from Goshen Valley, including CEO Zach Blend. One of the runners that caught everyone’s attention was firefighter Chris Norrington, who was carrying his 3-year-old daughter, Harper, when he crossed the finish line. “I actually pushed both of my kids throughout the run in a stroller this year. Then, for the final mile, my 5-year-old son Teddy wanted to run the rest of the way by himself. Not to be outdone by her brother, my daughter chose to do the same. So, we ditched the stroller and ran. Needless to say, her little legs gave up quickly and I carried her the rest of the way in. It was not my plan, but it kept her happy,” Norrington said.
Sam Harp, left, who was the overall male runner from 2012-2015, stands with this year's winner, Sean Witmer, right, and Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson. 10
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Firefighter Chris Norrington crosses the finish line with daughter Harper. Photos courtesy of Tim Cavender
Kim Whatley, the Aquatics Division director for Cherokee County Parks and Recreation, presents the trophy to Cherokee County Fire Chief Tim Prather.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
11
YOUR LOCAL NEWS Applications Accepted for Banner Program The city of Woodstock and American Legion Post 316 are accepting applications for Woodstock's Military Banner Program, which is designed to salute our brave men and women who are serving or who have served in our military, by displaying a light pole banner in their honor. The banner will be exhibited in Woodstock in celebration of Memorial Day and Veterans Day for years to come. Deadline for applications for Memorial Day is May 1. The banners will be on display one week before and after Memorial Day, and hung up again for Veterans Day. For details, visit www.woodstockga.gov.
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market Opens
Rain, Rain, Go Away It’s safe to say that Woodstock residents aren’t the only ones eager for our recent rainy weather to subside. The abundance of rain has kept Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department employees busy. With the safety of each parkgoer at the forefront, Director Preston Pooser said that, after each rain, they have to let water recede so it no longer covers the walking (concrete) trails. Then, crews Scenes from scrape, brush and blow off the mud and make Rope Mill Park. sure the paths are safe to reopen. “Additionally, we have to keep riders off the mountain bike trails until they are dry,” Pooser said. “When people ride on them while they are still wet, it forms ruts that may make the trails unsafe. We work closely with SORBA (the Southern OffRoad Bicycle Association) on the opening and closing of the mountain bike trails. Their volunteers help us monitor the trails and keep the trails in safe riding condition for our park and trail users.” 12
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
The market, in its 11th year, opens 8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays on Market Street in downtown Woodstock, beginning April 20. A Tuesday Evening Market will be open May through December in the backyard of Reformation Brewery at 105 Elm St. Hours will be 5-8 p.m. The Woodstock Farm Fresh Market’s rules guarantee that it is the best market in the region to get locally grown fresh produce, by requiring vendors to grow at least 85 percent of the product they bring to the market. To ensure these standards are being met, vendors are subject to inspection throughout the season. This year’s market will feature events from the Cherokee County Farm Bureau, cooking demonstrations from local chefs and live music. Synovus Bank is the presenting sponsor. For more information, call 770-924-0406, or email Kyle Bennett at kbennett@ woodstockga.gov.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
13
YOUR LOCAL NEWS
The staff members make many programs possible at Next Step Ministries.
Next Step Celebrates 10 Years Next Step Ministries is celebrating its 10th anniversary in April, marking a decade of offering programs for adults with special needs. These programs, along with community-focused activities, provide enriching life skills to adults with special needs who have aged out of the public school system. Executive Director Lori Baker discovered the challenges these families face while serving as a physical therapist in the Cherokee County school system. Baker knew services were needed to care for this population, but was surprised when she was strongly led during a mission trip to fill that gap and start the venture herself. By 2007, NSM was incorporated as a nonprofit organization. By May 2009, staff was hired and clients started attending the programs. NSM purchased property and moved to its present location at 7709 Turner Road in Woodstock four years ago. Currently, Next Step is in two locations, with plans for another building. After starting with three, the ministry has more than 50 active clients now. The Job Skills Program provides higher-function clients with ongoing work, and social experience interacting with the community through a range of activities. These projects include making Hope Bones dog biscuits, jobs for local businesses and shopping trips for the programs. The therapeutic day program, done in a loving, Christian environment, offers skilled personnel for assisting with fine motor, gross motor and functional communication. Clients also participate in cognitive activities, community events and much more. The programs run Monday through Friday and are full or part-time. NSM also has drop-in services, a Saturday respite program and camps during summer and school breaks. Learn more about their programs, and how you can get involved, at www.nextstepministries.net. 14
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Host a French Teen for 20 Days in July
R
Twenty French teens (ages 1418), who speak English and are from professional French families, want to come to the Atlanta area July 9-29. Each student needs an American host family who will provide room and board (host families are compensated), hospitality and friendship. The sponsoring organization hopes that an American family will incorporate the French teen into the family's summertime activities: trips to the pool, backyard barbecues, local sporting events, neighborhood events, etc. These teens, whose homes range from Paris to Provence, want to experience American life firsthand, and are fully insured, come with ample spending money for all expenses outside of the home, and speak English. The students are allowed to take outof-town trips. Linda Farmer, a retired French teacher, along with a French chaperone, will oversee the program, sponsored by Paris-based Loisirs Culturels Ă l'ĂŠtranger (LEC). For more information, email lgfarmer@aol.com or call 770-973-2452. www.lec-usa.com.
Summer Camp Positions Available Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency (CRPA) is hiring for summer camp counselor positions. Summer camp employees will work MondaysFridays, June 3-July 26 (excluding the July 4 week). CRPA is looking for counselors to work with the general population, ages 5-12, for Adventures Express Camp. CRPA also is looking for experienced counselors for therapeutic work with inclusion-based kids, ages 6-22, for KAOS camp. Apply online at: http://www.crpa.net/ employment. Contact Lauren Voss at 770-924-7768 or latvoss@ cherokeega.com for more information on Adventure Express Camp positions. Contact Jen Fischer at 770-924-7768 or jlfischer@ cherokeega.com for more information on KAOS Inclusion Camp Positions.
R Rea
Readers’ Choice Awards
Time to
Voting opens at 9 a.m. April 1 and closes at 5 p.m. May 10. We hope you will take time out from your busy schedules to vote for your favorite businesses in Cherokee County. Visit www.townelaker.com, look for the Readers’ Choice logo and, with a click of your mouse, you will be directed to the voting site. Follow the prompts and cast your votes!
Here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. 2. 3. 4.
Voting begins at 9 a.m. April 1 and ends at 5 p.m. May 10.
Winners will be announced in the June issue. Businesses will not be notified ahead of time. Everyone will find out at the same time. 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. No more than five votes per category will be accepted from each IP address.
Happy voting!
Readers’ Choice Awards aders’ Choice Awards Readers’ Choice Awards Readers’ Choice Awards
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
15
Farmers Markets In Cherokee County
Canton Farmers Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays Cannon Park, 130 E. Main St. On Facebook cantongafarmersmarket@yahoo.com 770-704-1548
The Farmers Market at River Church 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays, April 26-Oct. 25 2335 Sixes Road, Canton Co-managers Tina Rhoades and Gwen Massey On Facebook events@riveratlanta.org 770-485-1975
Waleska Farmers Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays, May 31-Nov. 1 Heritage Fellowship Church 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway 404-805-7568 mrsconleyskitchen@gmail.com
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market 8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays Market Street, downtown Woodstock On Facebook kbennett@woodstockga.gov 770-924-0406 16
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
SERVing
Fresh Foods, Locally A Canton-based nonprofit, SERV International, is taking its passion for feeding families around the world and focusing on a local effort to get fresh foods into more homes. The project, called SERV Food Local, offers a $40 box filled with an estimated $60 to $80 worth of fresh fruit and vegetables from farmers markets to feed a family for a week. People can donate boxes to families in need, or buy for themselves, their families or friends. Boxes, which carry different fruits and vegetables every month, can be ordered online. Pick up locations are the SERV Store, at 3245 Marietta Highway, Canton, or Hickory Flat United Methodist Church, 4056 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton. SERV is looking for partners in businesses, churches and individuals to support the local food initiative, SERV founder Steve Kasha said. The ministry has established relationships in local neighborhoods, and plans to continue to provide those residents with food boxes. “We want to be that giving outlet for companies and churches and individuals to reach the community,
Cherokee Is Still a Farm Community BY LIZ PORTER
Far left, volunteers who participated in the Christmas food box giveaway. Above, teams of volunteers went door to door, delivering food boxes at Christmas. Left, each box was filled with fresh vegetables and fruits. Bottom, a cheerful volunteer with a box for a special family.
and make a difference by donating fresh fruits and vegetables to people in need,” he said. The next distributions of fresh food boxes for SERV Food Local are scheduled for April 27 and May 5. To order or donate, go to www.servfoodlocal.com. If you would like to volunteer, go to www.servone.org, and go to Volunteer at the bottom of the home page. During the 2018 holiday season, SERV partnered with Revolution Church, Never Alone, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the House of Hope, Cherokee Veterans, Hickory Flat United Methodist Church and the Cherokee Family Violence Center, to package and distribute more than 350 boxes to families in need. More than 100 volunteers and ministry partners were involved in the project. Kasha began SERV in 2000; the ministry provides meals that cost 8 cents each and consist of dehydrated vegetables and nutrients that vary with the areas where they are served. Frequent distribution sites are in Kenya, eastern Africa, Cambodia and the Dominican Republic. In addition to food, the nonprofit builds water wells and distributes water filtration devices to provide clean water to those that need it. A facility in northern Kenya, called the House of Hope, provides children a safe shelter, food and water, education and vocational training. SERV also works with at-risk children in Cambodia to support their education. The charity supports churches in the communities they serve, often organizing serviceoriented short-term mission trips. SERV’s headquarters are located at 3145 Marietta Highway in Canton, next to the SERV Store. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.
Cherokee County is blessed with many food-producing farms and gardens, thanks to the abundance of undeveloped land (for the moment!). Some farmers raise beef cattle, goats, chickens for eggs or meat, as well as animal feed crops, such as hay or corn. Others specialize in a variety of vegetables and fruits that grow well in this part of Georgia. Methods of farming vary in our county. Some farmers prefer to use conventional fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides, while others rather would use organically permitted inputs (OMRI). Other farmers use little or none of that, and are classified as certified natural. Some farms work on more stringent levels of inputs, using permaculture as a growing method. As for genetically modified organisms (GMOs), there are not many of those types of crops grown in Georgia. The only GMO crops commercially available in the United States are soybeans, corn (both field and sweet), cotton, summer squash, alfalfa, canola, sugar beets and papaya. Of those, the first four are the most common in Cherokee County, and are likely to be grown by large-scale farm operations. Seeds treated with pesticides and fungicides are common in our area, because of the humid climate. Grasses, corn, clovers and other cover crops may be treated. Check with your farmer about the use of GMOs or treated seeds. As farmers and caretakers of the land, we prefer to use minimal sprays and inputs for pests and disease control. However, depending on the weather and type of pest or disease, it may be necessary to treat crops in order to save them. When you are shopping at a local market, you can ask the farmer what methods he or she uses. Most farmers at markets are happy to explain exactly how they grow their crops, if they aren't too busy. It's good to find out how your food is produced, and your local farmers market is a great place to learn. Take time to visit one or more of the wonderful markets here in Cherokee County this season.
Liz and Randall Porter operate Buckeye Creek Farm, growing produce for restaurants. She is active with Cherokee County Farm Bureau, Cherokee County Master Gardeners and Cherokee Farm to School Committee.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
17
Northside Hospital Easter Eggstravaganza 2018
Egg Hunts April 7
• Bunny Bash
Noon-4 p.m. at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, 915 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. Visit the Easter Bunny and receive a free printed photograph. Personal cameras are welcomed. Enjoy face painting, a cotton candy station, balloon twisters, a live DJ and more.
April 12
• Flashlight Egg Hunt
Hosted by Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. Check in 7:30 p.m., hunt starts at 8:30 p.m. for ages 1-12. $10 per child. Craft and snack stations, along with a visit from the Easter Bunny. At Cherokee Veterans Park, 7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. Pre-registration required. For information, contact Lindsey Collett, lcollett@cherokeega.com. www.crpa.net.
April 13
• Northside Hospital Easter Eggstravaganza 2-4 p.m. at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. Activities, snacks and selfies with the Easter Bunny are free. Souvenir T-shirts are $10. Registration is free, however, you can make a donation during registration, and all proceeds benefit the Special Care Nursery at Northside Hospital Cherokee. Guests also are encouraged to bring donations of diapers, baby wipes and baby food for MUST Ministries in Cherokee. No glass bottles or jars. Collection bins available at the event. Egg hunt times are: 2:30 p.m. for ages 0 to 3, and for those who have special needs and require assistance; 2:45 p.m. for ages 4 to 6; 3 p.m. for ages 7 to 9; and 3:15 p.m. for 10 and older. In case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled to April 14. In case of inclement weather on April 14, the event will be canceled. give.northside.com/ events/easter-eggstravaganza.
continued on page 20 18
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
TOWARDS BRACES & *New Patients only. Bring this coupon in or show us a photo of it. Monthly payment depends on initial investment made. May not be combined with other offers. Some restrictions may apply. Offer ends 5/31/19.
Woodstock-Towne Lake
Canton
(770) 592-5554
(770) 345-4155
145 Towne Lake Pkwy Suite 201
DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com
205 Waleska Rd Suite 1-A
Michael D. Williams, DMD, MS Dana Fender, DMD
Same Day Braces 0% Interest
Se habla EspaĂąol Owned and operated by Dana Fender, DMD | Dana E. Fender DMD PC.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
19
Egg Hunts April 13
• City of Holly Springs Easter Egg Hunt
At Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane. The egg hunt will begin promptly at 11 a.m. The Easter Bunny will arrive at 10:30 a.m. to begin taking complimentary pictures with eager Easter Egg hunters. Pictures will continue after the hunt. There will be a petting zoo and free craft for kids to take home. For more details, contact Erin Honea at 770-345-5536 or ehonea@hollyspringsga.us.
• Canton Egg Fest
Hosted by Oak Leaf Church, is a unique, entertaining, free, family-friendly event that will benefit the Cherokee Family Violence Center. The 11 a.m.-2 p.m event will include an egg hunt, kids zone with bounce houses and crafts, live performances by musical groups from around the county, food and merchandise vendors and more. On Facebook.
continued from page 18
April 20
• Easter Egg Hunt, Community Cookout and Unity Walk
Noon-3 p.m. at Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton.
• Eggs-traordinary Extravaganza
At the Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. There will be an egg hunt for ages 1-3 on the outdoor grounds of the Aquatic Center 2:15-2:30 p.m. (participants must provide their own baskets), a shallow water egg hunt for ages 4-6 and an underwater egg dive for ages 6-10, 2:30-5 p.m. You will register for a 15-minute time slot for the in-pool activities. (The pool depth is 3½ feet to 5 feet.) Baskets are provided for all water egg hunts, but must be returned after the hunt along with the eggs. There will be inflatables, face painting, crafts, prizes and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Times and registration are listed on the website: www.crpa.net/special-events/ eggs-traordinary-extravaganza. For more info, contact Jordan Kenney at Jlkenney@cherokeega.com.
• Sutallee Baptist Church
At 2 p.m. at 895 Knox Bridge Highway. 770-479-0101. For children up to fifth grade. www.sutaleebaptistchurch.com.
• Little River United Methodist Church Community Hunt
At 10 a.m. children will be divided into three age groups: 3 and younger, 4-7 and 8-12, to hunt for more than 10,000 eggs. Free cupcakes and punch for refreshments. 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock.
• New Victoria Baptist Church Easter Egg Hunt
Family festivities in Canton.
April 20
• Bascomb United Methodist Church
Egg hunt from 11 a.m.-noon for infants to children in sixth grade. Free activities include games, crafts, snacks and a picture with the Easter Bunny. The church is at 2295 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock. For more details, contact Tammy Smith at tammysmith.bumc@live.com or visit www.BascombUMC.org.
20
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
11 a.m-1 p.m. at 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Egg hunts for infants through fifth-graders. Activities include games, a cake walk, inflatables and face painting. Prizes, popcorn and Sno-cones available. 770-926-8448. For more details visit the Facebook page @newvicbaptist.
• City on a Hill
7745 Main St., Woodstock. Free community event. Doors open at 9 a.m. with the hunts at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Children will be divided by age during each hunt. There will be hotdogs, cotton candy, a petting zoo, bounce house, and the Easter Bunny will make an appearance. For more information, call 678-445-3480 or email coah@cityonahillumc.org.
Taste of WDSTK Thursday April 25 // 5:00 - 9:00 PM Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Event Green visitwoodstockga.com/taste
VISITWOODSTOCKGA
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
21
Storm Sense BY RENEE CORNELISON
While spring brings warmer temperatures, especially welcome after our dreary, cold, rainy winter, it also ushers in a greater chance of stormy weather. There are several things you can do ahead of time to help stay safe during a severe weather event. The first thing is know what types of severe weather are possible in your area. The second is to have a way to receive severe weather warnings. The third is to have a plan. Make sure you know what to do and where to go during a severe weather event to keep out of harm’s way.
Severe weather risks
Severe weather can occur any time of the day and any time of the year, but in Georgia, it’s more likely during the spring and in the fall. Severe weather typically refers to thunderstorms, tornadoes and floods, and Georgia can, and has, experienced them all. Make sure you know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means conditions are favorable for a specific type of severe weather. Be prepared to take action. A warning means severe weather is occurring or has been indicated on radar. Take appropriate action immediately.
Severe weather notifications
Make sure you have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings when they are issued for your area. Do not rely on an outdoor warning siren (a.k.a. tornado sirens) as your only warning. Outdoor warning sirens are just one tool utilized in Cherokee County to keep residents safe. 22
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Prepare now for possibility of severe weather Outdoor warning sirens originally were placed in areas such as ballparks and shopping centers, where people might be outside and have no other way of receiving a tornado warning. As time has gone by and technology improved, most people carry a smartphone with them all the time. There are many weather apps available so you can receive a warning directly on your phone. Also, keep in mind that outdoor warning sirens are not designed to alert people who are inside their homes and especially not when they are asleep. Homes are designed to keep out outside noises, but an NOAA Weather Radio is an excellent way to be notified at home. The radio can be programmed specifically for your county, and will only sound when a watch or warning is issued for your county.
Have a plan
Make sure you know where your “safe place” is located at home and work. Pay attention any time severe weather is mentioned in the forecast, and check back regularly for updates. You can get more in-depth information about preparing for severe weather by going to the Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency website (www.cherokeega-ema.org), the National Weather Service website (www.weather.gov/ffc/) or Ready Gov website (www.ready.gov).
Renee Cornelison is director of the Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency. www.cherokeega-ema.org.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
23
Mayor’s Recycling Challenge Watch for details of the 8th annual Mayors’ Recycling Challenge that will kick off in Cherokee County in June. This Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Going Green Committee initiative is aimed at sparking continued awareness surrounding community recycling while spurring a little friendly competition between the cities involved. During June and July, Cherokee County cities will be competing to see which can collect the most recycling. Awards will be given for most pounds of recycling collected overall, most improved city, and most pounds collected per capita. www.cherokeechamber.com.
Cherokee County Recycling Stations
Celebrating It’s evident that commemorating Earth Day is a priority for Cherokee County residents. While April is especially busy with Earth Day on April 22, there are ongoing opportunities for recycling throughout the year.
Greenstock Day in Woodstock
9 a.m.-1 p.m. April 27 at Woodstock Elementary School, 230 Rope Mill Road. A celebration of Earth Day that includes recycling of electronics, cellphones and batteries, and document shredding. Visit www.woodstockga.gov for more details.
Canton Dumpster Days
8 a.m.-noon first Saturday of each month at 151 Elizabeth St. The city of Canton’s Dumpster Days is a great opportunity for any Canton resident to dispose of trash, unwanted items, up to 10 tires per resident, and recycle many electronics free of charge. Please note: Dumpster Days are provided for Canton residents only. Please bring proof of residency when dropping items off. More details at www.cantonga.gov.
Items accepted
Computers/laptops, gaming systems, VCR/DVD players, stereo equipment, vacuums, microwave/toasters, hair dryers, curling irons, tools, wires and cables (all types), phones (cellphones and home phone systems), printers/fax machines, washers/dryers, dishwashers and other home appliances (excluding refrigerators), sofas, mattresses and dry paint.
Items NOT accepted
CRT TV or monitor (old style tube TVs or computer monitor), refrigerators, fuel tanks, motor oil, fuel drums, household hazardous waste, antifreeze, wet paint, paint thinners, pesticides, pool chemicals or commercial waste. If you have any questions, please contact Code Compliance Manager Merrick McClure at 770-704-1554 or merrick.mcclure@cantonga.gov. 24
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Hobgood Park
6688 Bells Ferry Road
Blalock Road Facility 370 Blalock Road
• Noon-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays • 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays • 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays • Closed Sundays and Mondays
Other public recycling centers • BridgeMill Recycling Bells Ferry Road. 770-591-0771. • Cherokee C&D. 770-479-1083. • Chadwicks, Highway 140 770-475-9868. • Dixie, Highway 92. 770-924-6110. • Pine Bluff, East Cherokee Drive 770-479-2936.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
25
We don’t treat teens like adults, because physically, they’re not where you take them matters Unlike adults, teens have growth plates where bone growth happens. So when kids or teens get a fracture, it’s important to have them treated by a pediatric specialist. Our team of orthopedic experts understands how to properly diagnose and treat growth plate injuries. Because when it comes to growing bones, where you take them matters.
CHILDREN’S AT TOWN CENTER OUTPATIENT CARE CENTER 26
605 BIG SHANTY ROAD NW, KENNESAW TOWNELAKER | April 2019
©2019 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.
choa.org/cpgortho
CHIROPRACTIC
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL
RELIEF FOR EVERYDAY LIFE
What life does to your body, we undo. Join the millions of Americans who have not only found relief from pain, but also a pathway to wellness at The Joint Chiropractic.
Consultation | Exam | Adjustment
STOP BY TODAY!
Acworth (678) 574-5959 | thejoint.com 3384 Cobb Parkway NW, Suite #450 Acworth, GA 30101 Woodstock (678) 214-4449 | thejoint.com 1428 Towne Lake Pkwy Ste. 28102 Woodstock, GA 30189
OPEN EVENINGS & WEEKENDS NO APPOINTMENTS | NO INSURANCE NEEDED
thejoint.com
*Offer valued at $39. Valid for new patients only. See clinic for chiropractor(s)’ name and license info. Clinics managed and/or owned by franchisee or Prof. Corps. Restrictions may apply to Medicare eligible patients. Individual results may vary. © 2019 The Joint Corp. All Rights Reserved.
Luxury. Community. Independence.
• • • • • • • • •
Escape the constant hassles of owning a home, and live the life you deserve at The Lodge At BridgeMill; home to spacious state-of-the-art apartments, unique community amenities and healthy programs and activities. It’s time to discover luxury living, and make your next home the Lodge At BridgeMill!
No buy-in fees Spectacular floor plans Convenient on-site dining Maintenance-free living Pool with heated jacuzzi 24-hour concierge services Transportation services Supportive services available Fitness programs
Call (833) 358-4220 today for a personal tour! Premier Senior Living Community 10451 Bells Ferry Road • Canton, GA 30114
TheLodgeatBridgeMill.com Facebook.com/TheLodgeatBridgeMill TOWNELAKER | April 2019
27
Life in the Techno Generation BY CALVIN MOSS
If you are a teenager, you are part of a generation that is comfortable with technology. You grew up with it, and probably use the internet for homework and things that interest you. You may even have one — or more — online identities through Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Tumblr, Vine, or other social networking sites. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 95 percent of teens are online in one form or another, and 24 percent report that they are online “almost constantly.” That’s probably not a surprise to you. The internet has changed drastically the way that we interact with the world. We have access to in-depth knowledge and to people all over the world, and tools to express creativity. Yet, along with a fascinating way to connect with the outside world, the internet also offers new, and very real, risks, such as identity thieves, online predators and cyberbullies. Identity thieves and online predators want your personal information to exploit you, financially or physically. The first clue that often provides personal information is your screen name or e-mail address. So, when creating your online persona, don’t use your real name, birthdate, city or location. Names that leave it unclear if you are female or male are best, and never publicize your address or phone number. Use privacy settings that allow only your friends to view your online profile or posts. Think before you post. Don’t write anything you wouldn’t want your parents or principal to read (remember, they can, and might!). Help protect your friends’ online identities, as well. While it’s nice to post “Happy 16th Birthday, Janice,” you just gave someone your friend’s age, birthday, and first name. If you post selfies or pictures, make sure they’re appropriate and 28
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
won’t attract attention for the wrong reasons. Whatever you post online, no matter how briefly, remains available online forever. Your pictures also can be edited by someone to make them appear very different. Be sure your pictures don’t contain more information than you intended. A team jersey, for example, can inadvertently identify your team, reveal your player number and location, and can allow someone to piece together your information. Add a photo showing your car tag and a predator or identity thief is well on his or her way to knowing where you are. Be careful blogging about your activities. Predators often use your posted likes to convince you how much you have in common and to secure your trust. Don’t be gullible if someone you don’t know posts how much you are alike, and wants to meet. And, NEVER meet someone you met online alone or without talking it through with a parent or trusted adult. Technology can be misused to bully and cyberbully, and can be extremely difficult for the victim, as it can go on 24/7. Think before you post, because defamatory comments and threats can have consequences. If you know someone being bullied, take a stand against it. And, if you’re being bullied, don’t respond. Instead, block the offender, tell an adult and keep a copy of the message, e-mail or webpage until you get help. Technology should be helpful, not hurtful. So, be smart, and remember: A vigilant community is a safe community.
Woodstock Police Chief Calvin Moss was sworn in February 2012, after serving 30 years with the Atlanta Police Department.
“Sell it with Sarah!” Buy or Sell Your Home with
SARAH TERRELL
770-928-6525
RealEstateAgent.net /SarahTerrellRemax
Customer Service You Can Count On!
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
29
Preserving Liberty for Elizabeth are inherent to human beings. They are not gifted to us by government. We have rights simply because we are human. In January 2015, I wrote about the birth of our son, Oliver This idea sparked a movement toward liberty across Caldwell. We celebrated his fourth birthday recently, and, the globe, and if we allow that flame to go out there are by the time you’re reading this, we will have celebrated the no other nations waiting in the wings to serve as that birth of our daughter, Elizabeth. beacon. I refuse to allow Ollie and Eliza to grow up in a If all goes according to plan, the week of her birth promises world without it. This is why ran for office. Our Republic to be an exciting one. As you know, the Georgia House and was cleverly designed to ensure one person couldn’t Senate are limited to 40 legislative days per year. As we individually determine the direction of our state or our near the end of that limit, the time spent on the floor of the nation, but for the small part I am allowed to play on behalf House often spans until midnight or beyond. This year, day of the 60,000 Georgians I represent, I’ll do my best to 39 is set to take place on ensure our government is March 29, and our time on consistently trending in a the House floor will easily direction that reflects our last until midnight. founding principles. We have a scheduled The 10 generations C-section for Elizabeth on since our nation’s March 30. Katie, Oliver, inception have jealously Eliza and I will spend the guarded our liberties 30th, 31st and April 1 in the for each of us. We can hospital, and I’ll return to never take for granted the capitol for Sine Die (the that we’ll be able to pass last day of the session) on them on to posterity. It April 2, where we’ll spend takes increasing vigilance from early morning until and dedication to the midnight, at the earliest, in principles of a free people the House chamber. and an independent This “citizen legislator” Republic. We are among thing isn’t just a talking the most fortunate human point. It can be an beings in history to take adventure balancing part in this gifting of legislative service with an liberty. It is the honor of already hectic family and my lifetime to play a small business life. Seasons in role in handing it down Katie, Oliver and Michael Caldwell wait for the arrival of Eliza. life like this bring great to Oliver and Elizabeth, perspective. As I reflect and Katie and I will be on the article I wrote anticipating Oliver’s birth, and the instilling in them a sense of responsibility to preserve it for importance of protecting our Great American Heritage for their children as well. him and his generation, I thank God that four years later As we start this exciting new chapter in our family’s story, Elizabeth will be inheriting the American Experiment as we certainly appreciate your prayers. We are more excited well. It reassures me of the importance of protecting what than we can say to welcome little Elizabeth to the world. our forefathers handed down to us. As President Reagan God is very, very good. reminded us, “Freedom is never more than one generation As always, If you ever have any questions for me, please away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the feel free to reach out to me on my cell phone 678-523bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed 8570 or email me Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You can on for them to do the same.” also meet me at one of my Weekly Coffees with District 20 This experiment in self-government transformed the nearly every Saturday at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown world. We blazed a new path forward for humanity in our Woodstock. Thank you again for allowing me the honor of Declaration of Independence, recognizing that people are representing our families in Georgia’s General Assembly! “endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights.” Our Great American Experiment remains the only nation in the history of the human race to recognize that rights Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District come from God and not government. Regardless of what 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. you believe about divinity, take pride in the fact that the Caldwell@house.ga.gov. United States of America is the only nation recognizing rights BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL
30
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
31
Yogi enjoys life in and around Woodstock, despite his disability.
Yogi Gets A Leg Up BY TEDDY THE SPAZ MAN
“Cool, that dog’s doing a handstand!” I looked up to see a woman next to us on the Elm Street Event Green watching Yogi “water the plants,” clearly in awe of his mad skills. Yogi’s my 12-year-old, 10-pound, 3-legged chihuahua brother. He learned this potty trick shortly after one of his rear legs was amputated. The rescue group, Hightower Farm, figured he was in a car accident. Either way, he came to live with us as a foster a week later. The first night in our home, Yogi escaped through an impossibly small hole in the backyard, and took off running. A chase ensued, but Mom and Dad figured he wouldn’t be too hard to catch. After all, he’d just had his leg removed. So, how fast could he be? Crazy fast, as it turned out, because
within seconds, he was standing in the middle of East Cherokee Drive, frozen with fear as rush hour traffic whizzed by, swerving to avoid him. It was a frightening sight, and Mom began pleading for help. “I promise I’ll give him a good life if you just let him live. PLEASE, God!” Yogi eventually was caught that night, and, afterward, Mom and Dad made the decision to return him to his forever home — our home. It turned out that Yogi’s “disability” had nothing to do with his legs, but everything to do with his mind. He was terrified of everything and everyone. He bit out of fear, so it took weeks before Mom could touch him without wearing welding gloves, and it took months before he’d even be in the same room with Dad. But, with a lot of time, love and understanding, Yogi slowly began to trust us. Today, he’s a happy little dude who lives a very full life. He walks and bikes on the trails, gets belly rubs from Dad, eats lunch at the finest restaurants downtown and enjoys long strolls with his lady friend, Miss Ellie Mae. And, to top it all off, he’s a loyal friend. In fact, he even chaperoned my Valentine’s date with Brianna at Tiny Bubbles. Yep, he sat in the window all night staring at her to make sure she didn’t try anything funny. He even texted her after the date to make sure she got home OK, and then the next day to see how she was doing. Hey, wait a minute! Maybe he wasn’t there as a chaperone after all! Grrr… Teddy the Spaz Man is a social media dog and not-so-humble Hallmark star living in downtown Woodstock. Facebook/ Instagram: @teddythespazman.
Yogi watched through the window while Teddy and Brianna enjoyed their date. 32
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
404-303-3157 NEW MIDTOWN LOCATION NOW OPEN! We are a full-service gynecologic practice that offers routine gynecologic care and the most advanced minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat a wide range of gynecologic conditions. Our board-certified physician and skilled robotic surgeon, Dr. Rama Rao, provides a patient-centered approach to women’s health care in a compassionate and trusting environment. We offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for: • Painful bladder syndrome • Cervical dysplasia • Stress and urinary incontinence • Endometriosis and pelvic pain • Uterine bleeding and fibroids • Ovarian masses
Rama Rao, M.D. MPH, FACOG
Three Convenient Locations Atlanta
980 Johnson Ferry Road NE Suite 910 Atlanta, GA 30342
Midtown
1110 West Peachtree Street NW Suite 1050 Atlanta, GA 30309
Towne Lake
900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189
GYNSurgicalSpecialists.com TOWNELAKER | April 2019
33
Cobb’s Purpose BY JONI GOMMO
My husband Paul and I were not intending to adopt a third dog. After Misty, our oldest miniature schnauzer, passed away, we decided that our two remaining girls were enough for now. After all, there were only two of us, so it made sense. Not long after making this decision, I saw an injured dog’s story on the Schnauzer Love Rescue page I follow on Facebook. With each sentence I read, I felt my heart strings being tugged a little more. This little guy, named Cobb, had a spinal cord injury that rendered him paralyzed in the hind end. While I wasn’t paralyzed, I had spinal cord compression a few years back, and I understood some of the pain he probably felt. Without saying anything to my husband, I looked up his foster family and sent a Facebook message asking if we could meet this little guy. She responded within minutes and invited us over the following day. Knowing that Paul has a soft spot for
34
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Paralyzed Schnauzer Spreads Joy, Hope and Love
dogs, I casually mentioned our plans for that Sunday. To my surprise, he was just as excited as I was. To make a long story a little shorter, we ended up fostering him, initially part-time, and then full-time. With all of his special needs, it wasn’t long before we began to wonder, “Would anybody else want to learn to take care of him? Would they be diligent enough to maintain his schedule of eight pills a day, multiple times a day? What if someone adopted him out of the area and we never heard about him again? Or, worse, what if someone adopted him, not fully realizing all the special care he needs, and then dumped him a second time?” After pondering these questions, we realized the answer. Cobb was meant to be a part of our family. We loved him, and he loved us, and he got along great with our other two schnauzers. We even did a twist on a gender reveal photo shoot, calling it a “Cobb reveal,” with him popping out of a box with blue balloons. We celebrated with champagne,
a pet blessing, and even a unity candle that Cobb’s first foster family, and Paul and I, lit together. That very night was the first time that Cobb initiated play with our other two. It was like he KNEW he finally was home, and it brought tears of joy to my eyes. Since the adoption, we have taken Cobb and his schnauzer sisters, Daisy and Lily, on many RV trips across the country. Cobb has had his picture taken at Mount Rushmore, Old Faithful, the Grand Tetons, and Above, Cobb’s gender reveal he even has walked along the party was a special occasion, shores of Maine. Cobb has a marking his adoption. following of thousands on the Left, Joni and Cobb walking rescue page, and many have along the coast in Maine. driven up to 100 miles simply to meet him. He has become an inspiration to so many. Recently, we were excited to see Cobb making progress in using his hind legs a little more, so we posted that we would be putting him back in rehab for another six sessions. Just a few days later, one of his fans sent money covering the entire cost. We were astonished! This was someone who followed Cobb on Facebook, and didn’t even live in the area. We exchanged emails and agreed to meet if we found ourselves near each other. That day finally came. A few weeks ago, while in Florida, we arranged a meeting. The day before, the wife, Nancy, told me her husband was on hospice care, and had been following Cobb’s story from the beginning. Being a hospice nurse myself, this meeting was now even more special. On our way to their home, she sent me a text asking, “Do you think that Cobb would snuggle in the bed with Greg?” I told her that I was sure he would. We told Cobb what a very special visit he was about to have, and how he had to be on his very best, most gentle behavior. The look in his eyes told me he understood. Nothing prepared us for the way Greg’s face lit up when we walked in with Cobb. The very second we put Cobb on the bed, an unspeakable bond was formed between an amazingly accomplished man, his beautiful caregiver and wife, and our little Cobbler. Their kindness, generosity and new friendship is something Paul and I will cherish forever. We have been blessed beyond measure to have met so many new people, made friendships that we will cherish for a lifetime, and had our lives forever changed for the better, all because of a rescued, paralyzed little schnauzer named Cobb. If you would like to hear more about life with Cobb, you can follow his Facebook page, Cobb’s Purpose: Life With a Paralyzed Schnauzer.
Joni Gommo lives in Canton with her husband, Paul, and three miniature schnauzers, Daisy, Lily and Cobb.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
35
Mom's Legacy Helps Special-Needs Community BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
There are so many ways to give in this life that don’t cost anything: smiles, kindness, appreciation, honor and time. Kathy B. Davis was known for this kind of giving. She had a passion for serving and supporting others, especially young people with special needs. After Kathy passed away in 2009, her husband, Dave, desired to carry on Kathy’s legacy in her honor and memory. As result, the Kathy B. Davis Foundation was established in 2011 with the goal of reaching out into the community bringing together people from all walks of life. Kathy and Dave’s inspiration to serve the special-needs community came from their middle son, Eric, who has Down syndrome. Eric has two brothers, Chris and Matt. The Davis family lived in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, while the boys were growing up. After Chris and Matt moved to Atlanta for work, Dave retired from Kroger and moved to Lake Arrowhead with Eric in 2013. The Kathy B. Davis Foundation is funded through an annual memorial golf tournament, live auction and social event, as well as private and corporate donations. This year’s tournament is April 6 at the Lake Arrowhead Country Club in Waleska. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Besides flight winners and raffle drawings, there are car and boat giveaways for a hole-in-one.
A Flowers for a Purpose session at the Empower Cherokee Center.
The KBD Foundation serves our community through three main programs. • Special Needs Golf Clinic, now in its third year, is held prior to the start of the annual fundraising tournament. Volunteers are directed by Dave, a certified Special Olympics golf coach for Cherokee County. The volunteers work with area residents who have intellectual or developmental challenges and teach them basic golf skills and a love of the game. The clinic is 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 5 at Lake Arrowhead Country Club. • Flowers for a Purpose began when Dave expanded the organization’s sphere to include senior citizens. It’s a monthly activity that brings together members of the special-needs population and area senior citizens who want to learn about flowers and how to create beautiful arrangements. The bouquets are shared with the participants and Cherokee County residents who may appreciate a little extra sunshine in their day.
• KBD Foundation Adam Holland Special Education Scholarship was
created in honor of Adam Holland, a
courageous young man with Down syndrome who is Eric Davis’s best friend. It is awarded annually to an area college student majoring in special education. Dave stays connected to the community through the KBD Foundation. “Whenever I think of positive people, my mind jumps to Dave Davis,” Dolores Bennett said. “I help volunteer for the foundation in the various programs, but one of my favorites is Flowers for A Purpose. It is truly heartwarming to see and be involved in the interaction of these two communities working together to create beautiful floral arrangements.” “Eric and I have stayed involved in all kinds of sports, but just love the game of golf,” Dave said. “As a certified coach for the Special Olympics, I’m excited about working to expand the sport of golfing in the Special Olympics all across Georgia.” For more information about getting involved, registering for the tournament and clinic, or donating, visit: www.kbdfoundation.net or contact Dave Davis at 615-533-0668 or ddavis@kbdfoundation.net.
Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.
Eric and his mom. 36
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
FINAL HOMES!
LAST CHANCE TO OWN IN THIS BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY
GRACE 770-516-3678
Beautiful Active Adult 55+ Community Modern Farmhouse Inspired Clubhouse Only Minutes to Towne Lake & Woodstock Build from the High $200s
6313 Woodstock Road Acworth, Georgia 30102
WindsongLife.com TOWNELAKER | April 2019
37
Certain Uncertainties in Retirement DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
The financial uncertainties we face in retirement may risk reducing our sense of confidence, potentially undermining our outlook during those years. Two financial unknowns may erode our degree of confidence. Indeed, according to the 2018 Retirement Confidence Survey by the Employee Benefits Research Institute, only 17 percent of preretirees said they are “very confident” about having enough assets to live comfortably in retirement. In addition, just 32 percent of retirees were “very confident” in their prospects for doing so.1 Today, retirees face two overarching uncertainties. While each one can lead even the best-laid strategies awry, it is important to remember that remaining flexible and responsive to changes in the financial landscape may help you meet the challenges posed by uncertainty in the years ahead. An uncertain tax structure. A mounting national debt and the growing liabilities of Social Security and Medicare are straining federal finances. How these challenges will be resolved remains unknown, but higher taxes — along with means-testing for Social Security and Medicare — are obvious possibilities for policymakers. Whatever tax rates may be in the future, taxes can be a drag on your savings, and may adversely impact your retirement security. Moreover, any reduction of Social Security or Medicare benefits has the potential to increase financial strain during your retirement. Consequently, you will need to be ever-mindful of a changing tax landscape, and strategies to manage the impact of whatever changes occur. Market uncertainty. If you know someone who retired (or wanted to retire) in 2008, you know what market uncertainty can do to a retirement blueprint. The uncertainties have not gone away. Are we on the cusp of a bond market bubble bursting? Will the eurozone find its footing? Will U.S. debt be a drag on our economic vitality?
38
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Over a 30-year period, uncertainties may evaporate or resolve themselves, but new ones also may emerge. Solutions for one set of financial or economic circumstances may not be appropriate for a new set of circumstances. Scottish philosopher Thomas Carlyle said, “He who could foresee affairs three days in advance would be rich for thousands of years.” Preparing for uncertainties is less about knowing what the future holds than being able to respond to changes as they unfold.2 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.
continued on page 78
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.
Helping the Homeless in Cherokee County BY HARRY JOHNSTON
We’ve all had growing awareness of homeless people in Cherokee County, including children and veterans. A statue dedicated in January at Veteran’s Park depicts two homeless veterans. It’s a beautiful yet cold and constant reminder of this problem. At that dedication, I pledged to help in some way. I don’t think we can stand by with vulnerable and better-deserving folks suffering. A spot-count, taken two years ago, showed almost 300 homeless people in our county. Most of them had found somewhere indoor to sleep for that night, mostly with friends or relatives. But they had no real place to live. Tragically, about 67 were unsheltered − literally out in the cold. Another count was taken recently. We don’t have the results yet, but no one expects lower numbers. I talked about the problem with Kendall Jones and Greg Elder of MUST Ministries. They’re doing great work in this area. They don’t have an emergency shelter in Cherokee, but they can provide motel vouchers to a limited number of people for up to 30 days. They also can provide some emergency help to people who are facing eviction, to help them to stay in their homes. And, they provide longer-term housing support for others, to help them get back on their feet and transition into stable independent housing. But, they’re forced to turn many away. On the night of the spot-count in January 2017, there were 67 people living in cars, in the woods, or otherwise out in the cold. Kendall, Greg and I talked about ways the county could help. One option we discussed was renting apartments to use for emergency sheltering, longer-term transitional housing, or both, as needed. The daily cost of each unit would be far less than the $75 per day that motel rooms cost. We discussed that $100,000 per year could rent up to 20 such apartments that could house two to four people each. In theory, at least, they could house most of the 67 people who were out in the cold at the last known count. We discussed that $100,000 is less than one tenth of 1 percent of the county’s operating budget. It seems like we can afford that. It’s just a concept at this point. I want the county to help in a meaningful way, with priority given to veterans and children. But, there might be other, more effective ways. What do you think? Can and should we commit one tenth of 1 percent of the county’s budget to significantly close the unsheltered homelessness gap in our county? Can we afford not to? Please email me about it at hjohnston@ cherokeega.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner. TOWNELAKER | April 2019
39
Foster Care is an Act of Service BY ZACH BLEND
What should I expect if we were to foster? What will the children be like? What type of circumstances will the children be coming from? Do you think we would be good at it? These are the types of good, and important, questions I am asked by those considering the role of foster parenting. Before I can begin answering, we have to understand foster care from the right perspective: as an act of service. Although these questions are important, what is most important is entering into foster care with the right expectations. Service is defined by Oxford’s Dictionary as the action of helping or doing work for someone else. Service is almost always associated with sacrifice. This typically is thought of as an act of giving up something of value for the sake of something or someone else. In the case of foster care, one of the most significant sacrifices you can expect to make is time. This might include time with other loved ones, time in the workplace, and travel or leisure time. While sacrifices in these areas may seem difficult, your time will be spent in new ways: creating a loving and safe environment for a child who hasn’t had one, providing needed direction and structure, and helping a child in need to trust again. The value of time is ultimately in the eye of the beholder. When I meet with prospective couples
for the first time, I often share with them that the bonds they hold with a foster child are not formed overnight, but it does not make the journey any less worthwhile. Recently, I took my 7-year-old daughter to the sweetheart dance at her elementary school. Once we arrived at the dance, she took off to play and run around with her friends. She occasionally checked in with me, and was comforted that I was there. That is a good example of the first connection a foster parent will make with a child. The first step is simply being there, ensuring safety and comfort, even when a child seems disinterested at times. This takes time, strength and emotional intelligence to make the circumstance less about you and more about them. I know that every child in the foster care system wants an opportunity to dance. Is your heart calling you to learn more about how you can play a part? Our community is blessed with some wonderful agencies that are ready to assist you in taking that first step.
Zach Blend is CEO of the Goshen Valley Foundation and a Georgia Trend 40 Under 40 recipient. He and his wife, Rachel, have three children, and are members of Hillside UMC. zblend@goshenvalley.org.
Recognizing the Signs of Ignition Failure BY DEIDRE PARKER
Most cars, trucks and SUVs have one of three types of ignition systems, which are responsible for turning on your car. They are distributor-based, distributorless or coil-on-plug. Battery and coil ignition systems rely on mechanical parts to pass a high current through a coil, which causes the ignition. Electronic ignition systems use a similar method, except mechanical components aren’t used; instead, they rely on sensors to activate the coil. Despite the differences, the following components are usually in both systems: coil, spark plugs, spark plug wires, ignition module and distributor rotor. When one or more components begin to fail, the car’s entire ignition system is affected. The effects are different, depending on the component that has failed. There are signs to look for that can point to one or more component failures in your vehicle’s ignition system.
Ignition lock cylinder: The ignition lock cylinder is the first component of an ignition system that is activated when your key is inserted and turned. Signs of a failed ignition lock cylinder include failure to start the car and trouble using your car keys. You may even experience some grinding when turning the key or the key not turning. Bad ignition coil: A coil takes the battery voltage and amplifies it so it is strong enough to jump a gap. A coil that has gone bad will not be able to convert energy from your car’s battery into the voltage needed to ignite the engine. A spark plug not receiving enough voltage could be a sign of a faulty coil. Engine misfiring, 40
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
difficulty accelerating and poor fuel performance also can mean the coil has gone bad.
Failing distributor rotor and cap: The distributor rotor and accompanying cap orders the voltage to go to the right spark plug in the proper order. The ordering of the voltage is a metal on metal connection, and does wear over time. When this part fails, it is impossible to start your car, or the engine will misfire. Drivers also may notice strange noises coming from under the hood, since parts of the engine will not get enough voltage to continue the chain of ignition. Spark plugs: Spark plugs do just what their name implies, they ignite a spark that creates the reaction inside your engine. Dirty spark plugs will cause misfiring, low gas mileage and shaky idling. Broken or damaged plugs will lead to hard engine starts and poor acceleration. On average, spark plugs should be checked every 30,000 miles. See something, do something: Ignition systems should be inspected visually every year, and, if your vehicle develops any of the symptoms I’ve mentioned, don’t wait. Since your vehicle’s engine is completely dependent on the ignition system, ignoring problems can lead to more serious, and expensive, repairs.
Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
41
EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.
In our 20 years of serving Cherokee County, Everyday Angels has featured a few too many stories of colon cancer that have affected our neighbors at a young age. Colorectal cancer (cancer that starts in the colon or rectum) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined in the United States. Historically, the American Cancer Society has recommended we wait until our 50th birthday before we begin colon screenings. However, research published last year indicates a rise in colorectal cancer between the ages of 40 and 54; now it’s recommended to begin screenings at age 45. It’s a much younger age if you are at a higher risk because you smoke, are obese, or have a family history of colon cancer. As we share our most recent cancer story, we remind our readers to be vigilant and don’t let your age slow down the process. In November, before her 45th birthday, Cara Keener began experiencing dull, persistent abdominal pain. “It would not go away, so I decided to go to urgent care where they performed an exam, X-ray and blood work. The blood work indicated that I was anemic and dehydrated so they sent me home with medication, which did alleviate my pain,” Cara said. When her pain returned in December, she returned to urgent care, and more blood work indicated another drop in her hemoglobin count, which was concerning. Numerous referrals and doctor appointments 42
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Cara, left, with daughter Olivia.
later led her to a gastroenterologist. However, before that appointment, she experienced pain severe enough to send her to the emergency room, where she had more bloodwork and scans. Her hemoglobin counts continued to drop, and her CT scan revealed a 7.25 centimeter-mass in her colon. “My GI doctor performed a colonoscopy which was blocked by the mass. He sent a biopsy to pathology which revealed it was cancerous and must be removed. I immediately met with the surgeon the next day and surgery was performed on March 7. The surgeon was able to confirm during surgery that it was contained to the colon. The tumor turned out to be 12 centimeters, but they are unsure if that was all cancerous.
They are checking to see if some of that mass is blood or infection. The surgeon is confident that he was able to remove all the cancer that he could see, however chemotherapy will be necessary,” Cara said. Due to Cara’s weight loss, her oncologist wants her to rest and get stronger before starting chemotherapy. Meanwhile, she is unable to work. Cara works full time in a sales position on 100 percent commission. She does not have the security of a base salary, so when she is out of work, she does not get paid. She also supports her 13-year-old daughter, Olivia. She is hoping to return to work in a few months, but until then, she needs our help to get her through this stressful and scary time.
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 | April 2019
43
Rob’s Rescues I interviewed Mr. Scott Lange, who is the executive director of AWARE Wildlife Center (www.awarewildlife.org) that rehabilitates injured and orphaned wild animals.
What animals usually come here and why?
This dog’s name is Lucy. She is 12 years old, and was an owner surrender. She just wants a comfortable bed to lie on. She won’t run 5Ks with you, but she happily will watch TV with you. She has an easygoing personality, and will love you and be a good companion.
We get a lot of hawks, owls, opossums, squirrels, song birds. Usually, they have been hit by cars. We also get a lot of squirrels and opossums that have been orphaned.
How do animals get to you?
Mostly people bring them to us.
How many animals do you have here?
We have 24 permanent residents. We take Scott Lange and Rob. them to schools and help educate the public about them. We have around 200 in hospital care at the moment. We accept every specie of native Georgia wildlife, and care for up to 2,000 injured, orphaned or sick animals each year.
What is the strangest animal that you have had?
We got a Canada Goose with an arrow sticking out of his head. Someone had shot him but not killed him. A volunteer went out and caught him. We did surgery to remove the arrow.
What is the smallest and largest animal you have had here?
Baby squirrels, baby opossums, baby hummingbirds. We had a bear cub once, before I came on board.
What story do you like telling?
There are 20 adult cats for adoption at the moment at the Cherokee County Shelter. Since everyone loves kittens, and kitten season is coming, it is important to find homes for the adult cats. Adult cats are way easier to have because they’re already litter box trained, and are used to other things. There is a lovely 8-year-old cat named Whitey who really likes to be petted on his head. Also, there are three cats that are very similar and came to the shelter together, and it would probably be very helpful if you adopt them together. The one in the picture is named Orangie, who is an owner surrender because his owner moved. 44
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
We have two barred owls, Tappy and Gazer. Gazer came to us as a baby with a genetic cataract, which makes him unable to see well enough to survive in the wild. Tappy was brought to the center after being hit by a car. They were introduced but never got along so arrangements were made for Tappy to go to an educational facility in New York. The permits were all obtained, and the day before Tappy was scheduled to get on the plane to go to New York the two owls started calling to each other. We put them together and they started preening each other, and we canceled the flight to New York. They have bonded and been together ever since.
Why do you like working here?
I like helping animals. The people who work and volunteer here have sacrificed a lot. They are very inspiring to be around and it is a very positive atmosphere.
How long do the animals stay here?
The educational animals that we have here can't be released and are permanent residents. Rehabilitated animals stay, on the short end, a couple of days. A six-month rehabilitation is normally the maximum.
What can I and the community do to help you?
Adult volunteers and donors are always needed. We get no government funding. We also need items like towels, pillowcases, cat and dog food.
What else do you want people to know about AWARE?
We do everything we can to be there when animals are in need. If you find a wild animal that needs help, please email us to get advice on whether to bring it in: help@awarewildlife.org.
I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.
Breathe Easier! Sleep Better! Get Healthier! CherokeeLungAndSleep.com
Our board-certified physicians have helped thousands over the years breathe easier, sleep better and get healthier. Using the latest in nonsurgical care, lifestyle therapies and stateof-the-art medical devices and medications, our patients are served with the most advanced pulmonary and sleep disorder care possible. Additionally, we treat or supervise critical care treatment and ICU patient care.
Our Canton Office Has Moved! 678-493-2527 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 130 Canton, GA 30115 Located in medical office building on Northside Hospital Cherokee campus
New Woodstock Office Now Open 770-852-7740 900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 206 Woodstock, GA 30189
Dr. Akhil Vallabhaneni
Dr. Matthew Haack
Located on Northside-Cherokee Towne Lake Medical Campus
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
45
TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING CUISINE
BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS RESERV.
Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway 770-693-4680
Mexican
no
$
$
open
full bar
no
Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com
American
no
$
$
open
no
no
Chinese
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
American Irish
no
$
$$
open
full bar
6+
Mexican
no
$
$-$$
open
full bar
no
Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net
Homestyle Cooking
$
$
$
closed
no
no
GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com
American/Burgers
no
$
$$
open
full bar
yes
Thai/Sushi/ Chinese
no
$
$$
open
full bar
no
JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com
Barbeque
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740
American
no
$
$$
open
full bar
yes
Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com
Pizza/Pasta/ Salad
no
$
$-$$
open
full bar
no
Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com
Japanese Steak/Sushi
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
yes
Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net
Irish/Pub
Sunday Brunch
$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
no
La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com
Mexican
no
$
$$
open
full bar
no
Steakhouse
no
$
$$
open
full bar
call ahead seating
Southern
$-$$
$-$$
no
closed
no
no
Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com
Pizza/Pasta
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
beer/wine
no
NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004
Pizza/Subs/ Bakery
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
no
no
Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches
$
$
$-$$
open
no
no
Chinese/Japanese
no
$
$-$$
open
beer/wine
no
Chinese
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Drive 770-592-9969
American
Sunday Brunch
$
$$
open
full bar
no
The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com
Bar/Grill
no
$-$$
$$
open
full bar
no
Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com
Italian
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
10+
Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com
Asian
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
no
Vietnamese
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
coming soon
full bar
yes
China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616
Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com
LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com Maple Street Biscuit Co., 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy #160 678-903-2161, maplestreetbiscuits.com
Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com Song’s Garden, 4451 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com
WOW Pho & Grill, 6422 Bells Ferry Rd 678-383-6099, wowpho.com
46
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
RESTAURANT
Casual and Upscale Restaurants
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
47
THE STEM HANGAR
Taking Learning to New Heights
N
ew business owner Kathryn Lavery has created a 3,125-squarefoot educational enrichment center where children in grades 1-8 have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning without a fear of failing. Within the walls of The STEM Hangar there are not many limits to what students can do. Here is a sample of what is offered. ● Fly more than 70 different aircraft alongside a real pilot in a flight simulator. ● Experience hands-on investigations in a science lab. ● Design, build, and program in a robotics lab. ● Join a FIRST® LEGO® League Robotics Team. ● Practice techniques of famous artists in an Art Studio. ● Travel to and explore new places with educational virtual reality. ● Learn coding and web design in a computer science lab. ● Design, create and play their own video games. ● Invent and build in an Engineering Lab/ Makerspace. The flight-themed facility offers STEM enrichment activities through camps,
STEM Coach, Grace Pfohl, works with Soren Pates during a “Kids Can Code” class. 48 TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Fun in the science lab with Owner/Director Kathryn Lavery, Savannah Swistak, Emmett Cutler, and Jacob Elmore.
classes, field trips, birthday parties and activity-based learning within a variety of STEM zones. The staff at The STEM Hangar believes in the motto “Engage. Empower. Enrich.” It is their goal to provide a place where children are engaged in active learning, empowered to achieve more, and provided enrichment in those areas of interest that already have been sparked by amazing teachers at their local schools. Among the many careers that may evolve from a STEM education, students at The STEM Hangar can learn about aviation, through the use of a flight simulator and a 30-seat mock airplane. Local commercial airline pilots and former military pilots have stepped on board to teach aviation classes to the students, who begin with ground school, where they learn the anatomy of the airplane, its control surfaces, an introduction to the various types of aircraft, and the history of aviation. Topics such as rudder pedals, brakes, glide slopes, taxi, take-offs, stalls, decent rate, landings and more are taught as they work through the program. “I love teaching, and wanted a place where myself and other teachers could do this without the constraints of time, instructional interruptions, standards or data keeping,” Lavery said. “It is a place for students to grow in their areas of interest and passion. Ideally, we hope that our programs will spark new interests and passions for all of the children who attend.” Lavery is not new to education, and holds a bachelor of science in education
and a master of education in curriculum and instruction, as well as special education and gifted endorsements. Her experience spans all areas of education, including public, private and the homeschooling sector. While there is always the possibility of growing and expanding into multiple locations, Lavery said her focus for now is on the children who come to the facility, and on the employees who have committed to being part of this adventure with her. “I believe that each decision I make, from the purchasing of equipment and the hiring of staff, to the development of curriculum and classes, should end with me being able to say yes to the following question: Is this in the BEST interest of the children?” Lavery said. “If the answer is no, or not really, then I move on.”
Studio Art teacher, Kyla Resnick, teaches a class in oil pastels.
PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO
STEM Coach, Mollie Franklin, helps STEM Coach, Hunter Jones, guides Keaton Spellacy with VEX® IQ® Robotics. Hugh Ryder through a virtual world. “As a teacher, Kathy had an incredible ability to connect with her students and parents, and they knew that she was not only going to make learning fun, but, more importantly, they clearly understood that she loved her students. Kathy brought her classroom to life, with real world experiences and hands-on activities that challenged and intrigued her students. Kathy’s teaching style and love for her class developed students into confident learners ready and willing to take academic risks through rigorous and engaging lesson designs. Using an engineering design loop, Kathy taught students the importance of failure as a teaching tool that even the world’s best engineers use to improve and perfect their designs.” — Doug Knott, principal, Cherokee County School District “The STEM Hangar is one of my kids’ favorite places! The owners feel almost like family, my son loves his robotics coach, and the classes are fantastic. My daughter is so excited to start the flying and art classes this spring, and my son will be taking some coding classes. So thankful we found them!” —The Constantin family, Milton
Jayden Jones and Quinn Spellacy work on a FIRST® LEGO® League robotics mission.
A SPECIAL FEATURE: The mock airplane has 30 real airline seats, a full-sized working beverage cart, and a student flight simulator in the front, which serves as the flight deck. Children sign in for class at a front desk, which was custom made from a real airplane fuselage. Parents find the gatehouse seating and free WiFi, perfect for a little down time while their children are otherwise engaged. This area of the facility also includes a drop-down wide screen for presentations, movie nights and instruction. Field trip and birthday party groups also enjoy the airplane space.
“I’m so pleased there is a facility where kids can further their knowledge of science, robotics, graphic arts and much more. Kathryn (the owner) has taken her dreams and made it real for so many kids. The STEM Hangar has given my son the opportunity to create, team build, and learn about robotics and coding. I really appreciate the ability of the robotics teacher to let these kids use their imaginations. Kathryn and Mark have made this all possible by opening The STEM Hangar!” —The Elmore family, Woodstock “My granddaughter’s birthday party was at The STEM Hangar. The party was well organized and the girls loved learning the science of making lip gloss! The owner and staff were very accommodating. We got many comments from parents about what a different, fun party idea.” —The Schmit family, Woodstock
The STEM Hangar, LLC
120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite #400 Woodstock, GA 30188
678-304-0088
Open 4 p.m.-8 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays. Various homeschool courses are available during daytime hours Mondays-Fridays. Ethan Molway, Fletcher Pates, and Keaton Spellacy enjoy their ride at The STEM Hangar.
www.thestemhangar.com @TheSTEMHangar @thestemhangar Sponsored Content
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
49
Wildlife Improves Property Values BY ANN LITREL
My phone rang. “They’re here!” It was my neighbor, Darlene. “If you come over right now, you can see them playing!” I ran across the street to join Darlene on her back deck. There, down the hill under the trees, were three fuzzy red fox kits, tumbling and wrestling. Their triangular ears popped above the leaves like radio dishes, rotating whenever they stopped for a moment to look around. Darlene was smiling wide. “This is the fifth year we’ve had fox kits at our house.” Fox kits are a special treat, but nature brings me something beautiful every day. A song sparrow. The fragrance of clethra. The red pop of winter toadstools. Sadly, the fox den was a large burrow dug underneath Darlene’s garage. “I hate to do it, but we’ll have to fill it up this summer when they’re gone. I don’t want our garage floor to sink.” I agree with Darlene. You have to keep nature under control. Deer? I spray my yard with a natural repellent (just to give the native azaleas a fighting chance). Squirrels? Last year we had the eaves under our roof closed off when we found chewed wires. If my relationship with nature was a marriage, I would say we enjoy wonderful moments - and also, at times, a healthy distance. But when it comes to a relationship with nature, some choose instead the advice of a divorce attorney. Healthy trees? Take them down. Lawn? Spray with chemicals. Divorce is the result. No bugs, a few flats of flowers, an orderly but spiritless corridor with no wildlife.
It’s simply not American to divorce nature. We inherited our concept of the “ideal yard” from European aristocracy. Green turf, a couple ornamental trees, a row of trimmed bushes. A fox? Send out a hundred dogs and men on horseback to kill it. America was the great wilderness when discovered, an Eden where God’s nature still smiled. My small suburban yard is actually a “Certified Wildlife Refuge,” with a small brass sign under a bush proving this designation. This is easy to do. Guidelines are published by the National Wildlife Federation. www.nwf.org.
ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM
Only small changes are required. Introducing native plants, supplying a water source for animals – even a small bird bath will suffice. The questionnaire walks you through the process. It’s a fun project to do with children, the way I introduced my kids to nature. A community that is healthy for wildlife is healthy for our children and our pets. Fewer toxins. Improved water and air quality. Getting kids back outside for mental health and development – and the joy of natural exploration and discovery. Roswell and Alpharetta are a bit ahead of us. Both cities have already joined the National Wildlife Federation Community Wildlife Habitat program. It has improved the property values in the cities, according to countless reports correlating communities that are naturefriendly to property values. But, it was worth making even my small yard into a Certified Wildlife Refuge. Last April, sitting with coffee at our kitchen table, we watched the mother fox creep up to our small pond water feature to get a drink of water. The moment seemed a gift from God. Ann Litrel is an artist, writer and certified Master Naturalist. She works in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
A 50
Ann Litrel's yard is a Certified Wildlife Habitat. Photo provided by Ann Litrel.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
51
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ELISABETH STUBBS.
What You Need to Know About Wood Flooring Engineered wood is thinner, and is made in plies (layers), with the actual species of wood on the top layer. The bottom layers utilize other species of wood for stability. Hardwoods are a popular flooring choice, and have been There are different qualities of engineered wood available, through the decades, except for the 1960s and ’70s, when it mostly determined by the wear layer or top piece of wood, was trendy to cover wood floors with carpet. the one you actually see. Engineered floors can be ⅜-inch Wood floors also are a smart purchase. According to a (most common), ½-inch, or even 9/16-inch recent national survey conducted by the thick. Plank widths vary from 3 inches to National Wood Flooring Association, 99 ... one of the 8 inches. Engineered wood normally is percent of real estate agents say that first things to installed by gluing it down. houses with hardwood floors are easier to If the area where you are installing sell. Of those surveyed, 90 percent believe understand is the new flooring has a plywood subfloor, homes with hardwood floors sell for more difference between either solid or engineered wood may money, and 82 percent say they sell faster. be used. If your substrate is a cement If you are shopping for new wood floors, site-finished slab, you almost certainly will choose one of the first things to understand is and prefinished engineered wood. Solid wood floors can the difference between site-finished and be installed on cement only if special (and prefinished hardwood floors. Site-finished hardwood floors. expensive) installation techniques and hardwoods are installed raw (unfinished), adhesives are used. and then sanded, stained and coated with Many people ask if prefinished or engineered floors polyurethane in your home. You are able to select the stain are real hardwood floors. Yes, both are composed of 100 color and the gloss level of the floor. percent hardwood. Most engineered wood floors can Prefinished hardwood floors are fully manufactured and be sanded at least once, except veneers. All ¾-inch solid finished in the factory. A prefinished floor offers a quicker prefinished wood floors can be sanded numerous times. and more convenient installation, but you have fewer choices in stain color, etc. Both types of wood flooring (site-finished and prefinished) are available in solid and engineered wood. Solid wood is exactly what it sounds like, a solid piece of Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in wood. Solid wood is usually ¾-inch thick, with plank widths Marietta. that vary from 2 ¼ inches up to 7 inches. BY ELISABETH STUBBS
52
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
1847 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062
770-565-3808
www.enhancefloors.com Enhance Floors located in the Restaurant Depot Shopping Center Big Chicken
Pike Nurseries
Roswell Rd
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
53
A Different Approach to Real Estate Investing BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON
Did you know you can invest in real estate with your individual retirement account (IRA)? That’s right! You can take advantage of the current housing market using your IRA, Roth IRA or SEP-IRA. With the uncertainty of the overall economy, you may want to diversify your portfolio to include an investment in real estate, either through direct purchase or as a lender. As a lender, your IRA's custodian would have a secured position in real estate with a security deed, much like a traditional mortgage lender. The typical terms for short-term financing through an IRA are similar to hard money loans (2-3 points and 12 percent-15 percent interest for an investment of less than six months). For example: A secured loan for $100,000 on a property being bought for renovation and resale would earn your IRA $3,000 on the day the loan is placed, and up to an additional $7,500 in interest if the full six-month term was needed by the borrower. If you could re-invest that same money immediately in a second transaction, your annualized return would exceed 20 percent. Longer-term financing (rental property for example) pays a lower return (1 point and 6 percent-8 percent interest), but this is offset by the relative ease of the transaction and the longer term of the return on an income-producing property (more secure). You can find a good IRA custodian by searching the terms “real estate IRA” or “self-directed IRA.” Most IRA custodians typically will
54
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
allow you to purchase or lend on raw land, residential properties or commercial buildings. We prefer single-family residential, because of its liquidity, and the relative ease to rent for immediate return on investment. Unfortunately, Internal Revenue Service regulations will not permit you to use the property purchased or lent upon as your primary residence, or as a vacation home. The underlying premise for any IRA fund real estate investment is that you can’t have any personal benefit from or use of the property. To do so may cost you plenty in penalties and taxes, and call into question your other dealings with that IRA account. When acting as a lender on real estate, your borrower must not be a disqualified person. This includes, but is not limited to, parents, grandparents, children and grandchildren. Interestingly, you can make loans on real estate to your siblings. Investing in real estate has big risks and the potential for big returns. Please consult with a CPA, your attorney and a Realtor experienced with these types of transactions before investing.
Kurt and Sheila are a top-producing real estate team that lives in Towne Lake and has served Cherokee County for more than 15 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com
FREE CONCERT David Wiseman Blues, Folk, & Ballads; Truth and Lies
NATIONAL TOUR
Friday
live at
APRIL 26 7:00-10:00 PM
No tickets needed. Just show up & have a great time.
400 CHAMBERS ST WOODSTOCK GA 30188
WWW.COPPERCOINWOODSTOCK.COM
A difference you can see. TOTAL EYE CARE
Specializing in: Cataracts, Retina, Glaucoma, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Cornea, LASIK and Cosmetic Services Eyewear and contact lenses for all ages
Mark Berman, M.D. Jerry Berland, M.D. Paul Kaufman, M.D. Glaucoma and Pediatric Ophthalmology Retina and Cataract Surgery and Strabismus Vitreous Surgery
Lakhvir Singh, O.D. Comprehensive Optometry
Woodstock
149 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 102 - Woodstock, GA 30188
770.928.4544
www.thomaseye.com TOWNELAKER | April 2019
55
Hope After Miscarriage: A Mother’s Story BY JAMES HALEY, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
One in four women experiences miscarriage, and, often, hope is what helps many women get through it. Though that hope may ebb and flow, it’s always there below the surface, waiting to rise again. That’s what happened with a patient named Jamie. Jamie and her husband had been trying to have a baby for nine years. During that time, she had three miscarriages — two of which were tubular pregnancies. She also had been experiencing a significant amount of pain. Jamie had been to five different OB/GYNs, and all of them told her there was nothing wrong. Jamie was feeling sadness, guilt, doubt and, yes, loss of hope, not unlike many women who have experienced similar situations. She and her husband started discussing adoption as an option. She thought perhaps that would be the path she would take to motherhood, because Jamie knew in her heart that her purpose on earth was to be a mother, one way or another. She relied on her strong faith during the dark times, and that’s how her hope resurfaced again. It was August of 2017 when she decided to try yet another OB/GYN. This time, she felt she was listened to and believed when she talked about her constant pain. A laparoscopic procedure was recommended. As a result, it was discovered one of her fallopian tubes was severely
damaged due to the tubular pregnancies. The tube was removed, and it was discovered that her pain was caused by endometriosis. That was removed as well. Though no promises were made, Jamie felt hope once again. And, then, three months later, she found out she was pregnant! Like many moms who have been through a miscarriage, or multiple ones, Jamie was apprehensive. It wasn’t until about 20 weeks into the pregnancy that she finally thought, “This may actually happen!” While she experienced a few complications, such as high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, her pregnancy was successful. After 36 hours of labor, she gave birth on Aug. 29, 2018, to her precious, healthy “rainbow baby,” Bella Klaire. Rainbow baby is a term for a baby born after a miscarriage or stillbirth, referring to the rainbow after the storm. When asked to share any advice she has for other women traveling this difficult road, Jamie said, “Even when things seem hopeless, don’t give up hope. Hold on to your faith and find a doctor you can trust.”
Dr. James Haley is a double board-certified OB/GYN and Urogynecologist with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in Canton and Woodstock. He was a patients’ pick in a survey by Atlanta magazine on top area doctors.
Straight Teeth Are More Than Cosmetic BY DR. AMBRE KRAGOR
With the recent popularity of braces and clear aligners, we are asked often if having straight teeth is merely a cosmetic concern. The truth is, some companies, providers or do-ityourself orthodontics may provide only the cosmetic portion of straightening teeth, and leave the patient with worse form and function than when they started. As specialists in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, we value form and function as equal in importance to the esthetic value of alignment. No one ever died from crooked teeth, but your overall health can be affected positively by having straight teeth. There are many reasons that orthodontics are not just cosmetic. Crowded teeth are difficult to maintain. It can be more challenging to floss and keep your teeth clean when they overlap or are out of alignment. This may cause plaque to attach to areas that pose periodontal risks, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, which are active infections that can lead to systemic concerns. Spacing may cause problems. Too much space between your teeth may be problematic if you cannot keep them clean. Food can get trapped between your teeth, leading to cavities or localized periodontal infections. Poor bites may cause physical damage to teeth. Malocclusion, or a poor bite, may lead to uneven chewing, wearing, chipping, trauma and cracked teeth, resulting in required dental work. Sometimes, damage may be severe and result in the loss of a tooth. 56
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Crossbites may lead to jaw asymmetries. If the bite is severely off, and the teeth do not fit together at a young age, this can lead to asymmetrical growth of the jaw to one side or the other. In addition, this also may create uneven wear patterns on the teeth themselves, sometimes requiring surgical correction. Poor bites may affect your chewing muscles and TMJ. Lack of a harmonious bite may result in alterations to the biology of your temporomandibular joint and the supporting muscles. This can lead to headaches, and/or TMJD (temporomandibular joint disorder or dysfunction). Underbites may cause difficulty with eating, chewing and speech. In severe cases, where the lower jaw juts out past your top teeth, there can be concerns for speech and eating. Very severe cases may require surgical correction, if not caught early. Self perception matters. Some children are teased because of the way their teeth look, and they do not want to smile or laugh. Their confidence may be affected during developmental years. This, alone, may be reason enough for orthodontics, if there are no other concerns. Many teens and adults feel more confident with straight teeth.
Dr. Ambre Kragor, and her husband Andy, are orthodontists who practice in the Towne Lake/Woodstock area. 770-485-8827. www.KragorOrtho.com.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
57
Avoid Aches and Pains During Spring Activities BY AMBER YORK, DC
As springtime approaches, many of us will find ourselves spending time outside in the warmer weather, basking in the sunshine and performing much needed yard work and gardening, after a long wet winter. Planting bulbs, mowing the lawn and pulling weeds can be a great source of exercise, but all of that bending, twisting, reaching and pulling may leave you with aches and pains. To help combat those aches, here are some helpful hints to help get you back in the yard or garden without saying, “Oh, my blooming back!”
Stretch before your activity.
Before beginning any activity, start with some simple stretches and deep breathing; slowly and rhythmically, do not bounce or jerk your body, and only stretch as far as comfortable. The old saying, “no pain, no gain” should never apply to your stretching routine. There are many stretches that can be beneficial and help keep you generally limber, but the basics such as the runner’s stretch, quadriceps’ stretch, and standing side stretch are a great place to begin. From a seated position, with your legs in front of you, lean forward until you feel a stretch in the back of your thigh, the hamstring muscles. Hold this position for 15 seconds and repeat. Stand up, and, using a chair for balance, grab the front of your ankle pulling your heel towards your buttocks stretching the
quadriceps. Hold this position for 15 seconds and repeat on the other side. The standing side stretch also can be achieved from a standing position by weaving your fingers together, and placing your hands above your head with palms facing up. Lean to one side, holding the position for 10 seconds, and then lean to the other side. This stretch can be repeated three times. Stretching your back, upper legs, shoulders and wrists will help alleviate injuries, pain and stiffness.
Be aware of technique.
In addition to stretching, it is important to be aware of posture and form. For example, kneel instead of bend, and alternate your stance and movements frequently, to keep moving pain free.
Use ice and consider chiropractic.
If you do find yourself in pain after a day of planting bulbs or spreading mulch, there are ways to get relief. Use a cold pack on the area of pain for the first 48 hours, and consider chiropractic care. These are great natural ways to keep the spring in your step.
Dr. Amber York is a Life University graduate specializing in low force adjusting at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic.
Options Available for Single-Sided Deafness BY DR. SARAH LICHT
Single-sided deafness (SSD) is the loss of hearing in one ear. SSD is most often caused by viral infections, head or neck trauma, Ménière's disease, or surgical procedures to remove brain tumors that are on the auditory nerve. Individuals with SSD may experience impaired hearing on one side, and also have a difficult time determining the direction of sound. This can subject the individual to dangerous situations, particularly when trying to cross the street or SSD is most navigate traffic. This type of hearing loss is more often caused common than most people realize, by viral however there are treatments available. Two options, currently infections, approved by the FDA, are the head or neck contralateral routing of the signal (CROS) device and the bone trauma ... anchored hearing aid (Baha) device. The CROS is a non-surgical option. The device resembles a hearing aid and has two components: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter sits on the deaf ear and picks up sound in the environment. The sound is sent wirelessly to the receiver in the good ear. For example, if a person has SSD in the left ear, with a CROS 58
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
system, they would be able to hear someone talking on their left side; however, the sound would be funneled into the right ear through the receiver. The Baha is a device that is surgically implanted, and uses vibration to stimulate the inner ear directly through bone conduction. A titanium rod is surgically placed in the deaf ear’s mastoid bone, which is located directly behind the ear. After the incision site heals, a small removable, box-like device is snapped onto the rod. This device picks up sound in the environment, and, through bone vibration, sends the signal to the good ear. This device also is used for other types of hearing loss. Although both options allow the user to gain awareness of sound from his or her deaf ear, expectations must remain realistic. Localization, or knowing where a sound is coming from, will still be challenging, since the sound is being presented to only the good ear. Listening with background noise present is optimal with two ears, and this type of setting will remain challenging.
Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016.
YPOW AM
Networking and Local Leaders Every Thursday at 7 AM Copper Coin Coffee
MORNING INFLUENCE
Friday April 26, 2019 // 8 AM
TICKETS: INWDSTK.ORG/EVENTS
We provide trusted, compassionate and exceptional care to patients with GYN cancers and other related conditions. Our experience in gynecologic oncology, combined with the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques, means that our patients can rest assured knowing they are in the best hands possible.
Conditions We Treat
• Pelvic Masses • Ovarian Cancer
Atlanta
• Cervical Cancer • Endometrial Cancer
980 Johnson Ferry Road NE Suite 900 Atlanta, GA 30342
• Endometrial Hyperplasia • Endometriosis
4 Convenient Locations
Marietta
780 Canton Road Suite 405 Marietta, GA 30060
Call 404-459-1900 for an appointment with Dr. Gerald A. Feuer in Atlanta & Marietta.
Canton
460 Northside Cherokee Boulevard Suite 400 Canton, GA 30115
AtlantaGynOnc.com
• Uterine Fibroids • Pelvic Adhesive Disease
Towne Lake
900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189
Call 770-721-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Michelle A. Glasgow in Canton & Towne Lake.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
59
Exercise and Arthritis: Keep Aging Joints Healthy BY DR. BRIAN SENG
Arthritis affects more than 50 million U.S. adults, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Exercise is important for overall joint health, even for those with arthritis. If you have arthritis, exercise is probably the last thing on your to-do list. In fact, walking, running and other high-impact exercises once were thought to be a major cause of arthritis. We now know that it may be a lack of physical activity that can lead to worsening arthritis symptoms. Moderate exercise actually can help improve flexibility, strengthen weak muscles and decrease pain. Here are some ways to protect your joints and keep them healthy as you age. • Maintain a healthy weight. Every extra pound you gain can put up to four extra pounds of stress on your weight-bearing joints (knees, hips and spine). Even the smallest amount of weight loss will give you relief. • Get regular low-impact aerobic exercise. Choose activities such as walking, biking, swimming/water aerobics, or use an elliptical machine. Those types of exercises protect the joints and the muscles around them. Aim for 20-30 minutes of aerobic activity, three to four times a week. Avoid rapid weight-bearing/ joint-loading exercises that put a lot of stress on your joints, such as stair-stepper machines, running/jogging or high-intensity Zumba classes (try Zumba Gold or Aqua Zumba instead).
• Add weight-bearing exercises. These keep bones strong with lower weights and more reps. Use weight machines, free weights and resistance bands, or aerobic activities where you must support your own weight (push-ups). However, patients with arthritis should avoid heavy weight lifting and CrossFit. • Include stretching to stay limber. This helps prevent tight muscles, which exert extra force on joints and limit range of motion. Yoga is great. However, patients need to understand that arthritis may limit their range of motion and the types of yoga positions they can perform. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to help reduce pain and swelling in joints affected by arthritis. Turmeric is a natural alternative to anti-inflammatory medication. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are options that may support healthy joints; however, research is inconclusive. There are more than 100 types of arthritis; some are more limiting than others. Talk to your doctor before beginning any new exercise program, or if you experience any unusual pain.
Dr. Seng is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Northside Hospital Cherokee and Arthritis & Total Joint Specialists in Woodstock, specializing in hip and knee replacement. 770-292-6500. www.arthritisandtotaljoint.com.
Is Respite Care Right for You? BY SHELLEY WINTER
Providing care for someone who is ill or disabled can be challenging. It can require a lot of time and energy, in some cases around the clock. Caregivers need to take time for themselves to rest and relax, run errands or exercise. If not, the result can be burnout. Caregivers can use respite care to receive a muchneeded break from their day-to-day responsibilities. Respite care is a temporary stay at an assisted living community, adult day care center, nursing facility or in-home. It usually is offered for hours, days or weeks at a time. During a respite stay, someone can receive care that includes meals, bathing, dressing, assistance with medications, and activities such as exercise, or socialization. Adult day programs provide a break to caregivers during the day only. Senior living communities generally offer this service from a week to a month, often with a minimum and maximum stay. There are other reasons an elder and his or her family may decide on a respite stay. • To try out a community. The senior may be considering a permanent move, and this can be a great trial period to see how well the older adult adapts to life within the community. A 30-day stay is recommended, so there is enough time to become familiar with, and get a feel for, the community. 60
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
• To recover after surgery or rehabilitation. • To receive care while family is out of town on business or vacation. Respite care usually is charged by the hour, or by the number of days that services are provided. Unfortunately, most private insurance plans don’t pay for respite stays. Medicare may pay when the patient is under hospice care. Some long-termcare insurance plans may cover some or all of the costs. With Medicaid, each state is different, where coverage options are concerned. The funds to cover the cost of most respite care will come from personal savings. Other sources may include veterans’ benefits, county programs and tax credits. Respite care has benefits for both the caregiver and their loved one, and can be a welcome break for all. You may want to talk to a few respite care providers, or visit several places to find the best fit. If possible, let your loved one take part in the process of choosing. This will make you both feel more at ease with this temporary stay.
Shelley Winter, community relations director at Oaks at Towne Lake, has worked in assisted living/memory care communities since 2008. 770-592-2195. shelley@oaksseniorliving.com.
Running Out of Space For All Your Peeps? GINA ANN RIGGS REALTOR®
404-860-0159 GinaAnn.Riggs@HarryNorman.com YO U R R E F E R R A L S A R E A LWAY S A P P R E C I AT E D !
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
61
Races & More It’s time to lace up your running shoes and hit the road. Whether you want to challenge yourself with your first 5K or you are training for the Peachtree Road Race, this guide to local runs will help you meet your goal.
April 13
Fourth annual Butcher to Butcher 5K is an evening race beginning at Liberty Elementary School and ending at the Butcher and the Bottle restaurant in Canton. The event includes a post-race celebration with food, beer, live music and an Atlanta United soccer game watch party. Race begins at 6:30 p.m. Each registration includes T-shirt, barbeque sandwich and beer (21 and older only; must show ID), or soft drink. For more information, email kbishop@csaimpact.com or visit www.butcher2butcher5k.org or www.active.com.
Street Dog Dash 5K, a fundraiser
for the Cherokee County Animal Shelter, begins at 8 a.m. at the Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. The flat, scenic course crosses the river into Heritage Park and then winds back to the finish at Etowah River Park. The race is an official AJC Peachtree Road Race qualifying event. Visit the race’s Facebook page or http:// streetdogdash5k.com/race-info for registration details.
62
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
April 20
May 25
and 10-mile trail run, and 15-mile and 30-mile mountain bike races at Blankets Creek Trails in Canton. Shirt and event headband for all runners. Free half-mile kids 10-and-under race. Fundraiser for SORBA Woodstock. www.sorbawoodstock.org.
and 10-mile trail run at Canton’s Boling Park is a fundraiser for Boy Scout Troop 241. Shirt and surprise swag item for all runners. Free half-mile kids 10-and-under race. http:// mountaingoatadventures.com/sutallee.
Battle of Blankets Creek 5-mile
Fourth annual Love Peru Fun Run and 5K at Etowah River Park
in Canton. Race day registration and packet pickup begins at 7 a.m., fun run starts at 8 a.m. and 5K at 8:30 a.m. Awards will be given in standard age groups, from 10 and younger to 70 and older. Refreshments provided. The race is an official AJC Peachtree Road Race qualifying event. www.active.com.
April 27
CASA Superhero Run of Cherokee County at Etowah River Park, 600
Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton. The 5K race and walk start at 8:30 a.m., with a Fun Run at 8 a.m. Lots of fun before and after the races. Awards to the overall winners, as well as the top finishers in all the usual age groups. Race shirts guaranteed to all pre-registered participants. The race benefits Court Appointed Special Advocates for Cherokee County. For more information and to register, visit www.casacherokee.org or runsignup.com/Race/GA/Canton/ CASASuperheroRunofCherokee County.
Sutallee Trace Trail Challenge 4.5-mile
The annual Holly Springs Memorial Day 5K and 1K Fun Run will start at Holly Springs Elementary School, 1965 Hickory Road, then finish at Barrett Park, 120 Park Lane. 5K starts at 8 a.m. at the school, and the 1K fun run, for ages 12 and younger, starts immediately following the 5K. After-race awards and refreshments will be offered. Proceeds from the race will go to the L.R. Tippens Education Center. Register by May 6 to receive a T-shirt. For more information, contact Erin Honea at 770-345-5536, ehonea@hollyspringsga.us or visit www.hollyspringsga.us/memorialday5k.
June 8-9
A Midsummer Night's Dream Hourly Ultra, the fifth annual event in the
Tortoise and the Hare Race Series, is the first in their trail series. Run your best 3, 6, 12 or 24 hours on a flat 1.2-mile-loop course in Boling Park, Canton. Run with a group of friends and/or meet other runners from around the country, as you share a midsummer's night on the trail. Race start for all hourly events begins at 9 p.m., no exceptions. There is plenty of room in the open field in the center of the course to set up tents and personal aid stations. For registration information, visit midsummernightsdream.racesonline.com.
Evaluate and Define Office Culture Part 2 of a 2-part series examining the workplace with millennials in mind. Part 1 is on page 63 of the March issue. BY ASHLEY VELEZ
Recap: A shift in the workforce caused by rising levels of millennial talent is shifting office culture. Organizations are starting to understand that, and in the words of Simon Sinek, “Customers will never love your company until the employees love it first.” Not defining your culture early puts your organization at risk, including creating policies and programs based on other employers versus your work environment, hiring employees that don’t fit, communication problems, management styles that threaten employee engagement and retention, and more. On average, 70 is the number of employees a company employs when it realizes culture is important. For many, by the time this number is reached, office culture already has formed, and it’s up to leadership and management to determine the viability in its current state. Put culture first by taking a step back, and making time to evaluate and define your workplace culture to determine what factors contribute and take away from your desired culture.
Use surveys and assessment tools.
Assessment tools and surveys can help gauge your culture and reveal gaps between what you have and what you want. Multiple resources and tools can help you assess the current situation at your office, including Gallup, CultureIQ, CultureAmp, Zugata, and others.
Google your organization.
Employer review sites like Glassdoor, Indeed and Comparably can provide powerful insights to your current employees’ feedback. This can open a dialogue with your leadership team about key issues that require examination and potential changes.
Become the example.
Interact with customers the way you want your team to interact with them. Communicate openly and honestly, and hold yourself to the same standards to which you hold your employees. Your decisions set the tone and pace for your employees, and communicate the team dynamic you want cultivated at your business.
Tips to get started.
Smaller companies, that may not have the budget and resources of larger companies, can start defining culture with three questions: • Why does our company do what it does? (Why do we exist?) • What do we believe? (What are our values?) • Where do we want to go? (What is our company’s vision?) The good news is, culture is a work in progress. It can and will change, especially if you place the same importance on it as the other foundations of your business.
Ashley Velez is the social media director for YPOW and is a digital marketing expert and proud resident of Woodstock, where she lives with her husband Oscar and their two sons. http://atlantaseo.pro. TOWNELAKER | April 2019
63
Around & About
cancer screening will take place 6-8 p.m. at 25 Skin Northside Hospital Cancer Institute at the Cherokee
APRIL
campus, 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd., Suite T10. The free screening is open to ages 18 and older. Recommended screening attire includes shorts and T-shirt. Qualified interpreters will be available free of charge, with advanced requests. Pre-registration is required. To schedule an appointment or for information about other upcoming cancer screenings, call 404-531-4444.
“For a Good Time … Mary?” directed by Cheryl 5 Lambert will be performed at 7:30 p.m. April 5-6, 12-13,
and 2 p.m. April 7 and 14 at the Canton Historic Theatre, 171 E. Main St. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for students/ seniors. A free champagne reception will be held April 5. www.broadwayboundproductionsinc.com.
The ninth annual Taste of WDSTK will be 5-9 p.m. at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Event Green. Woodstock area restaurants will serve samples of their best dishes and compete in a variety of categories. The event benefits the Woodstock High School band program, and kicks off Woodstock Restaurant Week, April 28-May 5. Admission is free. Taste tickets cost 50 cents each; packages start at $5.
5-6
A special-needs golf clinic is planned for 10 a.m. at Lake Arrowhead Yacht and Country Club, followed by a golf tournament with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Saturday. Breakfast and lunch are provided. Both are fundraisers for the Kathy B. Davis Foundation in Waleska. Details available at www.kbdfoundation.net.
6 Home
The 2019 Spring Symposium: A Greener World Begins at , presented by the UGA Extension Master Gardeners of Cherokee County, is set for 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Yanmar EVO Center, 5889 Old Alabama Road, Acworth. Keynote speaker will be Erica Glasener. The event includes two break-out sessions and lunch. The $40 fee includes welcome bags, door prizes, seeds, vendors and a silent auction. To see a list of speakers and to register, visit www.cherokeemastergardenersinc.wildapricot.org or mail check (with phone number) to CCMG, Attn: Diane Walton, 326 Lauren Lane, Woodstock, GA 30188.
11
Silver Roamers trip to Gibbs Garden and the Arbor Café,
leaving 8:45 a.m., and 9:15 a.m. from the recreation center. Cost is $50 for members, $60 nonmembers. www.crpa.net. PHOTO BY JENNIFER CARTER
Farmers Market opens for its 11th 20 Woodstock year, featuring vendors that grow at least 85 percent of
the products they sell at the market. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-noon, and the market is located on Market Street. This year’s market will include events from the Cherokee County Farm Bureau, cooking demonstrations from local chefs, and live music. A Tuesday evening market will be held 5-8 p.m., May through August, in the yard outside Reformation Brewery. For more information, contact Kyle Bennett at 770-924-0406 or kbennett@woodstockga.gov.
Roamers trip to the Georgia National Cemetery, 25 Silver leaving at 9 a.m. from the recreation center and 9:30 a.m. from the boys and girls club. Free for members, $10 for nonmembers. www.crpa.net.
64
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
for Life begins at 6 p.m. at E.T. Booth Middle 26 Relay School, featuring entertainment, food, team
competitions and more. The event is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, and honors cancer survivors and victims. https://bit.ly/2QyR3zW.
Day is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Woodstock Elementary 27 Greenstock School, 230 Rope Mill Road. A celebration of Earth Day that
includes recycling of electronics, cellphones and batteries, and document shredding. Visit www.woodstockga.gov for more details. 2019 annual Senior Extravaganza, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at First Baptist Church Woodstock conference center, 11905 Highway 92. Presented by Cherokee Triad S.A.L.T. with Northside Hospital Cherokee, The Holbrook at Woodstock and Humana. The event features vendors who offer resources and options for a higher quality of life for senior citizens. Free admission. www.saltcherokee.com.
MAY Holly Springs Job Fair is a free event, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the 1 Historic Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road. Bring copies of your
résumé, meet with potential employers and network with fellow job-seekers. Local businesses interested in participating in the fair should contact Donna Sanders at dsanders@hollyspringsga.us.
2019 Canton Main Street First Friday season 3 The begins. The 6-9 p.m. event includes a concert and a classic car display. Retail and food vendors abound. Main Street is closed to car traffic. www.cantonga.gov.
4 Cleanup
Holly Springs is participating in the Great American , the country's largest community improvement program, which kicks off each spring and engages more than 4 million volunteers in more than 20,000 communities nationwide. The event is set for 9 a.m.-noon. Location to be determined. Watch www.hollyspringsga.us for more information. continued on page 66
EAGLE WATCH IS CELEBRATING OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR! Join by May 1 for only $30 and receive
one month of complimentary dues and one month of complimentary golf guest passes!* RESIDENT SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP: dues starting at $30 per month + receive a $20 food and beverage credit each month.*
Membership at Eagle Watch offers: •
Active golf community with competitive leagues for everyone
•
Weekly Family Night Dining, Prime Rib Thursdays, Friday Night Out, Sunday Brunch and more!
•
Savory cuisine offered in a relaxed yet upscale environment
•
Golf programing and other social activities just for kids
•
Full access to Bentwater Golf Club CHRIS CONNOLLY | chris.connolly@clubcorp.com | 404.960.9225
*Offer expires 5/1/19 and may not be combined with any other promotion or discount. Initiation Fee and dues discount are available for Golf Membership categories only and a loyalty agreement is required. Food and beverage credits expire at the end of the month they are received, have no cash value, and are issued for promotional purposes only. Membership is contingent on successful completion of Club’s enrollment process. Loyalty agreement may be required. The O.N.E. program and corresponding benefits are subject to certain restrictions and exclusions. Participating clubs subject to change. Benefits are subject to the benefit terms and conditions, which may be found on clubcorpnetwork. com. All offers are subject to availability. Other restrictions and exclusions may apply. Contact Club for details. © ClubCorp USA, Inc. All rights reserved. 44016 0319 EA
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
65
Around & About
continued from page 64
IN WDSTK ONGOING www.inwdstk.org
INFluence
MAY Derby Day at the Rock Barn, sponsored by the Cherokee 4 Kentucky County Historical Society, begins at 3:30 p.m. The Rock Barn is located
at 758 Marietta Highway in Canton. Guests will enjoy gourmet food, open bar, silent auction, pony pull betting, bourbon tasting, and a competitive hat parade and contest. The event benefits the society’s education programs and ends with the crowd watching the Kentucky Derby on big screen TVs. www.rockbarn.org/events.
4-5 Center, will take place in Brown Park in downtown Canton. The Canton Festival of the Arts, produced by the Cherokee Arts
festival, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, is the primary fundraiser of the center, which is dedicated to enriching community life through the arts. The festival features the Artist Market, Serenity Garden, Jack Fincher Jr. Rising Artist Area, Kids Zone and Food Court. www.CantonArtFestival.com.
6, 13, 20 Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. For more details, visit Music Mondays are 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Northside
Meets the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues or services offered that affect the community.
Small Town Creatives (STC)
STC is for creative professionals (designers and makers), and alternates between a morning event and an evening event every other month. The morning events are the third Friday and the evening events are the fourth Tuesday.
YPOW AM
Young Professionals of Woodstock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Copper Coin.
www.woodstockga.gov and click on the special events tab.
6
The 19th annual Feed My Lambs classic golf tournament will take place 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Marietta Country Club. Feed My Lambs provides free Christian preschools in impoverished communities, including a school in Canton. www.feedmylambs.net.
Canton Farmers Market opens for the season at Cannon 11 The Park. Hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through Oct. 12. All produce is Georgia-
grown and mostly organic. On Facebook at Canton GA Farmers Market.
11-12
The 30th annual Cherokee County Mother’s Day Powwow and Indian Festival at Boling Park in Canton, featuring native American dance competition, honor dance for Chipa Wolfe, and Mother's Day honor dance; Native American cuisine; native arts and crafts, jewelry, and clothing; living Indian village and displays; environmental and wildlife displays; kids' activities and more. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and younger, and free for ages 5 and younger. The grand entry takes place at 1 pm. each day.
16 16 with Andrea Colburn. The Muckers will perform on June 20,
WDSTK Roots Music Nights begin with a 7 p.m. show on May
followed by Pony League on July 18 and Reverend Hylton on Aug. 15. Concerts at the Elm Street Event Green, 113 Elm St.
continued on page 68
LANTERN SERIES Elm Street Cultural Arts Center’s Event Green, 113 Elm St. 7:30 p.m. www.elmstreetarts.org/lantern-series/
April 13: Break of Reality, Alt-Classical, New York May 18: Huntertones, Jazz Brass, New York June 1: Violet Bell, Americana, Asheville, North Carolina June 22: The Lee Boys, Sacred Steel, Miami July 27: House of Waters, World, Senegal 66
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
ELM STREET THEATER www.elmstreetarts.org
April 5
Bluegrass on the Elm Street Green, 113 Elm St.,
from 6-8 p.m. Enjoy music from the cast and band of “Bright Star.” Free.
iThink Improv Troupe show at Elm Street at
8 p.m. Tickle your funny bone and spend your Friday night with an Improv Comedy show fit for the entire family.
April 12-28
Steve Martin's “Bright Star.” The bluegrass Broadway musical set in the Carolinas is a haunting and moving piece about finding your past. Friday/ Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday shows at 2:30 p.m. No show on April 20 and an additional show at 2:30 p.m. April 19. An opening night reception follows the April 12th show.
April 13
Break of Reality on the Elm Street Green at 7:30 p.m. The New York-based group blends classical instruments with a distinct rock sound.
April 18
Brew HaHa at Reformation Brewery at 7 p.m.and 8 p.m. Belly laughs plus beer on tap with iThink Improv Troupe every third Thursday. Join the local performers for improv games and loosen up those go-with-the-flow vibes, plus 20 percent off your favorite pours all evening.
Perimeter North
Medical Associates
Welcoming New Patients! A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Mian is a board-certified physician in family medicine who is proud to serve the families of Canton and North Georgia with the highest standard of care. Dr. Mian works alongside our experienced nurse practitioner, Leslie Jackson NP-C, serving each patient with the time, attention and personalized care you and your family deserve. We offer early office hours for your busy schedule, same-day appointments for sick visits and a convenient, new location in the BridgeMill Community.
Haroon Mian, M.D.
Services: • Care for patients aged 2 and older • Chronic disease management and acute illness care • Physical exams for school and sports participation • Immunizations for children and adults
NEW Location! 10515 Bells Ferry Road, Suite 200 Canton, GA 30114 Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 770-395-1130 to schedule an appointment PNFM.com
Leslie Jackson, NP-C
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
67
Around & About
continued from page 66
MAY Bacon & Banjos is set for 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Northside 18 Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. The annual festival, which
benefits the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, is a convergence of the salty goodness of bacon and the downhome sounds of bluegrass music. www.baconandbanjosga.com.
19
The fourth annual Galloping Against Violence fundraiser for the Cherokee Family Violence Center will take place 1-5 p.m. at Chukkar Farm Polo Club, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, Alpharetta. The event will include an unlimited buffet, wine, beer and nonalcoholic drinks. The festivities include a polo match, a silent auction, music, games and contests. Individual tickets are $50 each. www.cfvc.org/events.
23-26
The inaugural Etowah Film Festival will take place at the Historic Canton Theatre. The international event includes a Friday evening filmmaker’s reception, Sunday morning patron brunch, and screenings through the four days of the films, which will be entered to win in the following categories: best documentary (short or feature), best environmental subject (short or feature), best narrative short, best narrative feature, and best student short. www.EtowahFilmFestival.com.
27 City Center. For more details, visit www.woodstockga.gov.
A Memorial Day ceremony begins at 10 a.m. at The Park at
JUNE
1 benefit senior citizens and senior veterans. 9 a.m. registration, Volunteer Aging Council Poker Run is a fundraiser to
kickstands up at 10 a.m., last bike in at 1 p.m. Starts and ends at the Lotus Adult Day Center, 4595 Towne Lake Parkway. For details, email info@vac-cherokeega.org.
1-2
The Cherokee Chorale will perform “Days of Wine and Roses” 5 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Scott Martin is the conductor. For ticket information, visit www.cherokeechorale.org.
WOODSTOCK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 7:30 p.m. Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater www.woodstockconcertseries.com
May 11: Mark Wills June 8: Better Than Ezra July 13: Who’s Bad (The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience) Aug. 10: Little River Band Sept. 14: The Molly Ringwalds (World’s Greatest 80’s Experience) 68
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
COED @ THE CIRCUIT 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600 www.cherokeega.org www.facebook.com/ cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment
1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC CHK)
First and third Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. First Wednesdays are held at The Circuit, third Wednesdays are held in different Cherokee County cities. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to practice their pitch skills, gain valuable feedback, or belong to a community.
The Lunch Circuit
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second Wednesdays. A monthly exclusive lunch gathering of aspiring and current entrepreneurs to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee entrepreneurs.
Woodstock WordPress Meet-Up
First and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Local WordPress developers, designers and publishers get together to share knowledge and experience, and to meet other WordPress users in the area.
Entrepreneurship 101 Book Club
Every other Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. This new meet-up is a partnership with Creative Muscle Studios.
Creative Problem Solvers Meet-Up
First and third Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m. Join an innovative, diverse community of creative problemsolvers, entrepreneurs, “want-repreneurs” and innovators dedicated to helping one another work through business challenges.
OTP and Greater Cherokee Tech Pros
Every third Thursday, 7:30-8:45 a.m. A gathering of local technology professionals.
Women Entrepreneurs Meet-Up
Every third Friday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. For aspiring and current female entrepreneurs who want to take action and hold one another accountable for stated goals. NOT a lead exchange or referral networking program.
YOUTH FOOTBALL | SIDELINE CHEERLEADING | COMPETITION CHEERLEADING | Grades K-5
REGISTER NOW! CYFA.ORG
/cyfa.ga
Popular floor plans still available, but are selling fast.
LIVE IT UP
Amenity-Rich Resort Living for Active Adults NEW HOMES from the LOW $300s
Live the way you feel and continue experiencing all the things that give you pleasure. Just north of Atlanta, Soleil is the place to be. Award-winning resort style 55+ community only minutes from shopping, dining, hospitals, culture and Blue Ridge. Find Your New Home at SoleilLaurelCanyon.com Call Today for Your Personal Tour 678.500.8099 102 High Mountain Trace · Canton, Georgia 30114
©2019 Lifestyles at Laurel Canyon, LLC. Special offers, prices, home designs and other information subject to errors, changes, omissions, deletions, availability, prior sale and withdrawal at any time without notice. Not an offering to CT, NJ or NY residents. Void where prohibited.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
69
DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING
Casual and Upscale Restaurants
RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY Canyons American no $ $ open 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com Century House Tavern Modern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com see ad inside front, 55
SPIRITS RESERV. Beer/Wine no
no
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
8 persons +
$
$
$
open
Full bar
no
Wood-fired Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar yes Pizza & Grill Brunch 11-3 Southern
Sat./Sun. Brunch 10:30-3
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
no
Habanero’s Taqueria 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com
Mexican Tapas/Sushi
Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-1:30 no
$
$-$$
open
Full bar
yes
Fri./Sat. only
$$
open
Full bar
yes
Italian
no
$$
$$
open
Full bar
no
Diner
$-$$
$-$$
no
open
no
Weekends only
BBQ & Southern Sandwiches
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
Beer
no
Southern
no
$-$$
$$-$$$$
open
Full bar
no
Pizza
no
no
$$-$$$
open
Beer/Wine
no
Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 Brunch puretaqueria.com/woodstock 11-3
$$
$$
open
Full bar
6 persons+
Reel Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 reel-seafood.com
Seafood
Sunday Brunch 10:30-3:30
$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Rootstock and Vine 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com
Wine bar Tapas
Sun. Brunch 11:30-3
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Salt Factory Pub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225
Gastropub
Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-3
$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
no
Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com
American
no
$
$
open
Full bar
no
English Tea room
no
$$
no
closed
no
yes
Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com
Variety of Food trucks
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
Craft Beer
no
Vingenzo’s 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com
Italian
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
yes
J Christopher’s 315 Chambers St., 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com Partners II Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
70
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Sunday Brunch 10:30-2
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
Fire Stone 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com
Expert Surgical Care for the Cherokee Community
Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates is a full-service practice specializing in general surgery. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Grant Wolfe, uses the latest minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques to treat the full spectrum of abdominal, thyroid, and soft tissue disorders. Grant Wolfe, M.D.
Treatments offered for: • Hernias
• Skin and soft tissue lesions
• Gallstones and gallbladder problems
• Thyroid and parathyroid disease
• Breast masses and cancer
• Diverticulitis and colon cancer
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease and hiatal hernias
• Stomach, adrenal gland, pancreas and spleen disorders
(770) 924-9656 • ncsurgicalassociates.com 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 412, Woodstock, GA 30189
The Kind Approach
770-575-8800
10% OFF
Any Service or Repair Not valid with any other offers
www.ChloesAutoRepair.com 6422 Bells Ferry Rd #100 Woodstock, GA 30189
FREE SPRING BREAK FREE OIL CHANGE ROAD READY INSPECTION
Includes Checking the Brakes, Tires, Suspension, Battery, Belts, Fluids, Filters, and Hoses This covers all major indicators of road worthiness and you can’t beat the price!
Buy one Oil Change, get a second one of equal orlesser value free. $29.95 Synthetic Blend oil change plus tax and disposal $49.95 Full Synthetic oil change plus tax and disposal.
Includes up to 5 Quarts of oil, new oil ilter and multi-point inspection. Diesel & Specialty Oil Available at additional cost.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
71
@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock 770-926-5859
April 5
Sing First at 10 a.m. These music and movement classes for children and their parents are provided by music teacher Justine Lemmo. Session one (for ages 0-18 months) begins at 10 a.m., session two (for ages 19-35 months) begins at 10:40 a.m., and session three (for ages 3-7 years) begins at 11:20 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
April 10
Homeschooler’s Book Club at 1:30
Firefighters from Engine Company No. 20 visited the Rose Creek Public Library to teach fire safety and provide a tour of their fire engine.
ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491
April 3
Spring Break VR Tour at 3:30 p.m. Stuck at home during spring break? Drop in and experience another world with virtual reality headsets. For ages 8 and older; children must be accompanied by an adult.
April 24
Pals and Pages at 3:30 p.m. Sign up for a 15-minute slot to read or chat with a
senior. Pals of all ages can register for a session by calling 770-591-1491. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
April 25
Home Safety 101 at 11 a.m. Join Cherokee County Office of Fire and Emergency Services’ Beth Elder (a fire and life safety educator) and learn about the hidden hazards in your home and how to keep your children safe. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Lego Robotics Club at 6 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join in on some Lego fun! Take apart, re-build and program Lego Mindstorm robots.
April 29
VR Experience: Anne Frank House. Drop in between 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
and 3:30-5:30 p.m. for a virtual reality tour of the Anne Frank house (Rated “E” for Everyone), where she was forced to go into hiding to escape persecution from the Nazis during World War II. For all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult.
72
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
p.m. Join a community of readers who meet once a month to enjoy some lively conversation about literature. This month’s theme is Africa. Children should read a book independently, or with a caregiver and share a brief talk about their book with the group. Refreshments are provided.
April 13, 27
Inklings Writers Critique Group at
11 a.m. Love to write, but need some feedback? All writers interested in joining a group to share writings, ideas, and feedback are invited to attend!
April 16
Book Discussion Group at noon.
Enjoy coffee, conversation, and a book discussion with new friends. This month’s selection is “Jars of Hope” by Jennifer Roy. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.
April 17
Marshmallow Engineering at 4
p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to celebrate Teen Tech Week with marshmallow engineering STEAM fun! Materials are provided.
April 24
Special Tinkergarten Story and Activity Time at 10:30 a.m. Sing, listen to
stories, and do a simple nature project. For ages 18 months to 8 years; children must be accompanied by a participating adult.
resurrection sunday APRIL 21ST • 9AM & 11AM First Baptist Woodstock
11905 Highway 92 • Woodstock, GA 30188 Both services in the Worship Center
good friday
Join us in celebrating Jesus’ resurrection and how we are MADE NEW in Him this Easter. Featuring the First Baptist Woodstock Worship Team, special musical guest, NewSong, and a message from our pastor.
PRESCHOOL (INFANTS - 4 YEARS OLD) Journey with Jesus
KIDS (KINDERGARTEN - 5
th
GRADE)
KidzPlace Worship Experience
More info at:
easteratwoodstock.com
APRIL 19TH • 7PM
Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater
Downtown Woodstock • 101 Arnold Mill Rd • Woodstock, GA 30188 In case of rain, we will move to First Baptist Woodstock
Good Friday is a special gathering where we remember the cross and the death of Jesus. There will be a time of worship, a word from our pastor, as well as communion.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
73
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce
1
3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS 1. Alpha Helicopter P.O. Box 2604, Woodstock 770-592-4434 www.alphahelicopter.com 2. Technical Resource Solutions, LLC 120 Arnold Mill Park, Suite 100, Woodstock, 678-928-9491 www.technicalrs.com
2 EVENT CALENDAR
April 23
Administrative Professionals Appreciation Luncheon,
April 4
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast 7 a.m. breakfast meetings offer current and future Chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. April co-sponsors are the State Farm Jey Willis Insurance Agency and Synovus. May sponsor is Northside Hospital Cherokee.
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the chamber office. Sponsor is Woodstock Furniture Outlet. This event is held in order to allow you to show appreciation to your support staff. They will enjoy a great program, delicious lunch and fabulous door prizes. Guest speaker Chanda Bell is the author of “The Elf on the Shelf” series and the co-CEO of the books' publishing company, Creatively Classic Activities and Books.
April 16
April 25
Business After Hours 4:30-6:30 p.m. Presented by AT&T at
BB&T, 936 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock.
April 17
B.L.A.S.T.T. Workshop. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Top 5 Tips Employers Should Implement to Protect Their Confidential Information and Trade Secrets presented by Brad Adler, Freeman, Mathis and Gary, LLP.
April 22
Earth Day Recycling Event 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Free to the public, this annual recycling event, associated with Earth Day, includes electronic recycling, aluminum drink can collection and onsite document/file destruction. At the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton.
74
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED and First Aid Training, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. A representative from
Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services will teach the class. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. Cost $70.
April 26
Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED Training,
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. A representative from Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services will teach the class. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. $40.
April 30
Power Hour, 10-11 a.m. Networking with fellow business owners.
SPOTLIGHT on Community Arts
The arts help bring people from all walks of life together in a way that nothing else can. We hope to strengthen the community by highlighting local artists from various genres.
Judith McManus
is an author and resident of Towne Lake. Her passion for history inspired her to write her first novel, “The Music of Her Life.”
Tell us about yourself.
“I am a former advertising fashion artist and copywriter from Birmingham, Alabama. While growing up, I always admired a watercolor painting that hung in my mother's bedroom of a lovely woman from the turn of the century, wearing a beautiful dress, hat and holding a parasol. It was painted by my aunt. After studying commercial art in college, I became a summer intern at The Birmingham News and then continued my art career as a permanent employee. After my husband and I moved to New Orleans, I continued my fashion art/copywriting career for another 10 years. In 1987, we moved to Atlanta, and in 2015, my husband and I moved from East Cobb to Woodstock, where I began to pursue my interest in writing.”
Who or what inspires you as an artist?
“I’ve always been interested in history. My passion for it began with my family’s genealogy, passed down through published writings by my late great-aunt, and Alabama historian, Mattie Lou Teague Crow. My interests are wide-ranging, but I am drawn to the 19th and 20th centuries. I continue to receive firsthand accounts from the Greatest Generation. My journey as a writer of historical fiction began with my first novel, "The Music of Her Life," which is a tribute to that generation and my family.”
What do you hope to accomplish?
“I hope to continue to increase my knowledge of the bygone eras and the ways of life, with my research and writing. Hopefully, the younger generations will someday want to learn about their ancestors and the lives they lived. My generation has a limited knowledge of the Greatest Generation, and the stories from that spectacular era. Sadly, it seems that our old Brownie or Polaroid snapshots are the only historical items we pass down to our descendants.”
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
75
Follow These Unexpected Instagram Accounts BY STACY BROWN
Instagram is a great way to discover new places and events. The photo-sharing app has more than a billion monthly users. The IN WDSTK team has created individual Instagram accounts to share each of our unique perspectives on Woodstock and the state of Georgia. Since Woodstock’s destination tagline is A City Unexpected, it was only fitting we include that phrase as part of our account usernames. Because of our varied responsibilities, people often ask about a day in the life of the city’s economic development team. The “unexpected” Instagram accounts are a great way to get inside information on what’s happening in Woodstock. The idea for the staff Instagram’s accounts came about as I planned the 2018 travel season for the Woodstock Mobile Visitors Center. Tourism Manager Kyle Bennett and I travel thousands of miles around the state each year. With all of the travel we do as Georgia certified travel counselors, Kyle and I were taking lots of photos at places like Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, and posting them to our personal accounts. He and Economic Development Director Brian Stockton were posting pics from Atlanta United games, too. Program Manager Mitzi Saxon was posting about time on Lake Allatoona and her favorite boutiques. With our team’s varied interests, and all of the
76
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
time we spend out in the community, influencer accounts seemed like something we really should be doing. I shared 116 posts on my Instagram, @stacyunexpected, in 2018. I began my account with a picture of the sunrise taken Easter morning overlooking a marsh on the Georgia coast. My top posts of the year included the view from the top of Lookout Mountain, a first look at the setting for Santa’s visits to the Woodstock Visitors Center, a picture with friends from Reformation Brewery’s Cadence Fair in October, selfies with food and drinks found in downtown Woodstock, and my first triathlon medal earned last summer in Acworth. The posts on Kyle’s Instagram, @kyleunexpected, took followers to Gibbs Gardens, the Woodstock Summer Concert Series, DragonCon, the College Football Hall of Fame, and the Center for Wildlife Education in Statesboro. Kyle even shared a post about the unique features inside updated rooms at the Marriott Marquis downtown. Brian’s wit comes through on his Instagram, @brianunexpected. continued on page 78
Stacy Brown is the Marketing Manager INWDSTK for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 678-217-2386 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.
Elm Street
For the Experience Seeker BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW
“A mind that is stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.” — Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. Instagram is famous for inspirational quotes that encourage us to be our best self and take risks and to love everyone — but, how many people read those quotes and actually act upon them? We find comfort in our everyday, and most of us want change, but don’t want to chase it. Experience, as a verb, means to encounter, but it also means to feel. To experience something new would create new feelings in our lives. Whether it is a change, or not, experience pushes culture and forces us to grow, by stretching and inspiring us. Elm Street is an arts center that is doing just that. It is part of our mission to engage the community with relevant art experiences every day. We always are striving for community growth, with new programs, artists and ways to present art to everyone. Elm Street constantly is trying to create ways to bring vibrant and unexpected experiences to the community. Our inaugural season of the Lantern Concert Series does just that. On April 13, we are bringing Break of Reality to our outdoor stage. This alternative-classical ensemble has sold out concerts in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. The band’s signature cello rock sound has bridged the gap between classical, rock and world music listeners, and, in 2015, the members of Break of Reality were appointed music ambassadors by the U.S. State Department. We also are one of the first to bring you “Bright Star,” a bluegrass musical written by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, set in the Blue Ridge Mountains between 1920 and 1940. This story follows Alice Murphy, a literary editor who meets a young soldier, just home from World War II. He awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past, and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. Propelled by an ensemble of onstage musicians and dancers, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion, beautiful melodies and powerfully moving performances. By bringing the community these new cultural experiences, Elm Street hopes to spark an interest, a change or a feeling for expanding our audiences’ minds. “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” — Thomas Merton
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
APR 12-28 PRESENTING PARTNER:
BREAK OF
REALITY Alt-Classical Chamber
APR 13 | 7:30pm PRESENTING PARTNER:
Registration OPEN for
Siobhan Brumbelow is on staff at Elm Street. She holds a BA in Theatre from Brenau University and toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre.
SUMMER CAMPS ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | April 2019
77
Looking at Rain From a Different Perspective BY REV. DR. PAUL W. BAUMGARTNER
I certainly am looking forward to spring! As I write this article, it is raining − yet again. I cannot remember another winter so wet and dreary as this one. I am looking forward to warm and sunny days, but rainy days really don’t get me down. The way I stay positive on wet and dreary days is by associating the rain with the waters of my baptism. Sixty-two years ago, water was poured on my head while God’s word proclaimed that I had been claimed by God and joined to Jesus Christ forever. I have heard it said the baptismal journey might be referred to as “walking wet.” So, when I forget my umbrella, and I am caught in yet another downpour, I remember and give thanks for what God has done for me. In one of my favorite passages in the Bible, the Apostle Paul proclaimed: “Therefore we have been buried with Christ Jesus by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.” (Romans 6:4-5) Actually, this constitutes my primary reason for looking
forward to spring. This month, as we welcome spring, we will take the Holy Week journey from Palm Sunday, and Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem; to Maundy Thursday, and his institution of the Lord’s Supper; to Good Friday, and the redemptive work of his crucifixion; to Easter Sunday, and the mystery of his resurrection. That’s what God has done for me, and I am eager to celebrate it, once again. This baptismal journey of walking wet isn’t a private matter between me and God though. If I have been united with Jesus’ death and resurrection, then I have surely been united with his mission in the world. I believe that mission is primarily about loving God and others, freely giving away mercy in the world, and seeking justice for those oppressed by the world. Some occasional cold rain splashed on my face can wake me up to what’s going on around me, and what God is calling me to do.
The Rev. Dr. Paul Baumgartner has served as senior pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church since January 2004. He can be reached at pastorpaul@gslutheran.org.
Certain Uncertainties in Retirement continued from page 38
Citations. 1 - https://www.ebri.org/docs/default-source/rcs/1_2018rcs_ report_v5mgachecked.pdf?sfvrsn=e2e9302f_2 [4/24/18] 2 - https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/thomas_ carlyle_118785 [12/17/18]
Unexpected Instagram Accounts continued from page 76
He pokes a little fun at Kyle’s and my profile descriptions in his own, where he describes himself as an uncertified travel counselor and storyteller. Posts on Brian’s feed focused on trails, beer, tourism, and even public art in Savannah. Mitzi’s Instagram, @mitziunexpected, shared posts at Chateau Elan, Rootstock and Vine, and the Lantern Series by Elm Street Arts. Her profile boasted a bit of celebrity flair, featuring photos with country music artist Mark Wills, and Paul Milliken from Fox 5. Follow these accounts to experience these unique takes on Woodstock, and, of course, don’t forget to follow @ VISITWOODSTOCKGA, as well. IN WDSTK brings together local residents and businesses from every community who are investing, involved and included in Woodstock’s growth and opportunity. The organization hosts more than 125 events annually. The staff also operates the visitors center and promotes the city as a tourism destination. 78
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
Marriage Moments
Take a Mission Trip Together BY BILL RATLIFF
During the February school break, my wife and I went on a mission trip to Panama City, Florida, a location struck by Hurricane Michael. We took two couples with us. As we drove into town, we were shocked and devastated by the amount of damage still present. Blue tarps were on roofs everywhere. Trees were snapped off, businesses were closed and debris was piled high in front of many houses. Our team worked together for three days, chainsawing fallen limbs, raking, removing yard debris and hauling it to the street for pick up. One of the homes we worked on was owned by a couple married more than 55 years. They were not poverty stricken, however, they had no insurance, and had reached out to their church for assistance. They had remained in their home during the hurricane and were now working on cleanup. The wife had experienced a fall, and the husband recently had been diagnosed with some difficult health issues. Yet, they stood firm in cleaning up their property. We completed our work with them, and prayed with and encouraged them. Another home we worked on was that of an 87-year-old widow. When my wife and I drove up to meet her, she had been asking God that morning to help her. She was overjoyed to hear our team was coming to assist her. She told us how she had stayed in her
home throughout the hurricane. Panama City proper was not as prepared for evacuation because the hurricane was supposed to hit the beach more than the town. She described the winds and the tree crashing on her roof, and how she was stuck in her home due to flooding. As we listened to her story, I saw my wife fill with compassion for this woman and her situation. I was deeply moved by the loving spirit I saw in my wife at that moment. It is etched in my memory. We also had the privilege of taking a damaged fence out of this lady’s yard. Our team removed some trees and debris, and worked hard to clean up, encourage and pray over this widow. We had the opportunity to meet, pray with, and help her neighbor, as well − a single mom with two little ones, trying to rebuild her life. I believe this mission opportunity brought us closer together in our relationship. The other two couples concurred. The Bible says in James 1:27, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after widows and orphans in their distress …”
Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
79
YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Scholarship Opportunity for Graduating Seniors
Matthew Lane and Savannah Bray.
High School Athletes Share Positivity Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy fifth-graders recently welcomed two special guests: Etowah High School students Savannah Bray and Matthew Lane, who spoke about the Positive Athlete Georgia program. They shared about being student athletes, what high school is like, and the impact demonstrating strong moral character can have in your life. Their visit was captured for a CNN news video focused on Lane, a senior basketball player, and his triumph over cancer. https://cnn.it/2JdMicP.
The BridgeMill Sixes Service League (BSSL) is offering two $1,000 scholarships, available to seniors graduating from a Cherokee County High School. The Lexine Harper Community Service Textbook Scholarship was created to recognize students committed to serving in the community. The scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Lexine Harper, founding member of BSSL. Applications are available online at http://bssl.org. Application deadline is April 18.
National School Spirit Awards Finalists
Principal Mark Smith is well known for his school spirit. 80
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
The Cherokee County School District and Woodstock High School Principal Mark Smith are finalists for national school spirit awards. The school district is a contender for the Spirit of St. Jude Award, while Smith is in the running for the Most Spirited Principal award. The Varsity Brands School Spirit Awards celebrate schools, organizations and individuals who “go above and beyond the call of duty to build school pride, student engagement and community spirit.” Winners will be announced May 11 at the company’s School Spirit Awards Show in Orlando. “School spirit plays an important role in the success of a school, and we’re so proud and excited about these honors,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “Everyone who knows Mark knows he’s the school’s and the town’s No. 1 cheerleader. He cares deeply about every student and staff member, and all of their families, and that’s evident in everything he does. It’s also humbling to be recognized for having the Spirit of St. Jude. Kids are what we’re all about, and when kids are hurting, we all hurt. Visiting St. Jude’s and meeting those kids moves your heart, and so does seeing our own students put their ice cream money in a jar to help.” Smith is one of five finalists named from a pool of thousands of eligible principals. The longtime educator and principal is known, not only in his school community, but also throughout Cherokee County, for his incredibly infectious school spirit and sincere support of all students and staff. He also is beloved for his hilariously charming hype videos on social media, usually featuring various costumes, the shouted chant “We are … Woodstock,” and, occasionally, wrestling. The Spirit of St. Jude award, named for the children’s research hospital, honors schools and school districts that engage the majority of its students in fundraising for the charity, which is a major recipient of Varsity Brands’ philanthropy.
Get Cherokee Reading! In support of the statewide Get Georgia Reading initiative, the Cherokee County School District celebrated the importance of literacy with its second annual month-long Get Cherokee Reading campaign. The program kicked off with Read Across America Day, a nationwide reading event that coincides with renowned children’s book author and illustrator Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Some of the activities included Read-Ins, with community leader visits to classrooms to serve as guest readers; the creation of schoolwide reading logs to capture how many minutes all students spend reading; Flashlight Fridays, with time for students to read using flashlights they bring from home; and a Stop and Read Day, with dedicated time at the start of the day in all classes for reading.
Hadley Hall in her modified Big Wheels Wild Thing.
Electric Eagles Customize Wild Thing Casey Hall recently reached out to the Etowah High School Electric Eagles robotics team to ask for help customizing a Power Wheels Wild Thing for her daughter, Hadley, who has spina bifida. They had owned the battery-powered vehicle for more than a year, and Hadley was unable to drive it. She uses a wheelchair daily, and couldn’t go off road and play with other kids. The Etowah Electric Eagles modified her ride with components they use in their robots. They put in an Arduino processor, new motor controllers, and a precision joystick for variable speed control, so Hadley can drive it with one hand. They also added a speed limiter to make it easy for her to learn to control it, and pink ground effects, since that is her favorite color. For safety, a 5-point seat belt, from a used car seat, was retrofitted, and they made a custom formed safety cage out of PVC pipes and padded it with pink swim noodles. Hadley’s ride was unveiled on Feb. 13, during the team’s robot reveal at the Yanmar Evo Center.
Carmel Elementary School first-grader Liam Adamaski works on his reading skills in teacher Lauren Hagood’s class.
DECA Student Going to Internationals Woodstock High School juniors Tom Lawrence and Evan Conley competed in the three-day DECA State Career Development Conference in Atlanta. Lawrence, who placed first in the Principles of Finance event, is headed to the international contest in April in Orlando. Students advance to internationals through high scores on a test taken in advance of the event and/ or by succeeding in role-playing scenarios at the competition that test their marketing knowledge, and abilities to develop and present solutions. Lawrence is a Superintendent’s Key Scholar, Eagle Scout, member of the Beta Club and Latin National Honor Society, and runs cross-country and track. Evan Conley, left, and Tom Lawrence. TOWNELAKER | April 2019
81
Maintain Your Child's Learning Momentum BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
Research shows longer summer school breaks negatively impact a child’s learning, and, while our balanced calendar reduces those concerns, here are a few helpful ideas.
CCSD Summer Discovery
This summer, the school district is expanding its week-long summer enrichment program to all rising first- through fifth-graders. The program will be offered at two campuses, Hickory Flat and Liberty elementary schools, and is open to Cherokee County students, no matter which school they attend. Two daily sessions meet 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. June 3-7. Students can enroll in one or both (students who enroll in both will have time to eat a lunch brought from home on campus). Parents need to provide transportation, as well as lunch; before- and after-care is not provided. More details, including course offerings and costs, are available at www.cherokeek12.net.
High School Personal Fitness and Health Program
Rising high school freshmen and current high school students can take a half unit of personal fitness and/or health for high school credit from June 5-25. Each class lasts four hours daily (personal fitness 8 a.m.noon and health 12:30-4:30 p.m.), and will be offered at Cherokee High School (for Cherokee, Creekview and Sequoyah students) and Etowah High School’s Etowah East campus (for Etowah, River Ridge and Woodstock students). Attendance is mandatory to earn credit. Registration is in May; rising freshmen can register at their middle school’s main office, 82
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
while current high school students can register at their counselor’s office. The cost is $200 per class; transportation is not provided.
Online Resources
The Learning Tools page and Bulletin Board on our website offer great resources for parents. Look on the homepage for the blue buttons with these names. At the top of the Learning Tools page, you’ll see links to resources sorted for elementary, middle and high school students. Each page provides several dozen online learning opportunities such as i-Ready Math, Khan Academy and SAT prep. The Bulletin Board is a continuously updated one-stop shop for community information, including: special events; summer camps at CCSD partners like the Cherokee Outdoor YMCA and Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency; and community service options for teens.
Summer Reading Program
The Sequoyah Regional Library System’s Summer Reading Program offers special events at all branches, as well as rewards for students who meet reading goals. We hope you and your family have a wonderful summer break, filled with fun, relaxation and, hopefully, some learning, too.
Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
83
Photo courtesy of Joy Cristofanelli.
A Night to Remember
BY BRYCE JONES
We are all born with differences; however, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, to be reminded they are loved and that our differences make us unique and amazing. This is exactly what the Tim Tebow Foundation is doing with the event Night to Shine, which is held all around the world one night in February. This prom-like event brings the community together to create a spectacular night for those ages 14 and older with special needs. Volunteers come from all over to participate in Night to Shine, and can help out in many ways. They can be a buddy who escorts the children with special needs around for the evening. They can cheer them on as they walk down the red-carpet, or even help valet cars or serve dinner. The volunteers are there to help the attendees have a good time, but just being there to witness the joy shining from each attendee’s face brings its own sense of happiness to all who witness it. Attendees are always excited for this prom-like event, which allows them to have the time of their lives.
Photo courtesy of Cindy Hamilton. 84
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
“One child, so excited about the event, wore his tuxedo on the back of his wheelchair for the entire two weeks leading up to the event,” said Belinda Jenkins, a director for Night to Shine at First Baptist Church Woodstock. I was able to enjoy a few of the many activities alongside some of the guests. I got to ride in a limo with a young man named Brian. I saw beaming faces singing happily on the karaoke machine, accompanied by members of the Woodstock High School football team. Above all, one of my favorite moments was when I got to cheer for the attendees as they ran, walked or even waltzed down the red carpet. Guests received mini-makeovers, had their shoes shined by volunteers, and there was a big dance floor, where guests could strut their stuff and show off their moves, knowing they were in a safe environment where no one was judging them. To top that off, each guest was crowned king or queen of the night, to remind them that they are beautiful individuals, each with a special purpose. Before Night to Shine came to Woodstock five years ago, there was no large-scale event or prom designed for children and adults with special needs. However, this amazing event changed that. If every day was like Night to Shine, the world would be such a better place. We need more events like this. It reminds us to look past others’ differences and see their true, unique and amazing personalities. Night to Shine proves that giving joy brings joy, and makes everyone see each special guest the way we should see them, like the kings and queens they are.
Bryce Jones is a seventh-grader at Woodstock Middle School and a member of the Friends Club.
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
85
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, Š OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community
Visit our website for more information on these or other trail projects. www.greenprintsalliance.org
Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street. It continues downhill 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.
Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park.
Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 86
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
LakeHOMES Sales for February TOWNE LAKETowne AREA SOLD2019 IN FEBRUARY List Price
Days on Market
Sales Price
$$/sq ft
2005
3
$260,000.00
119.05
1996
2
$146,000.00
160.79
2
2002
5
$234,900.00
166.6
5
3.5
2002
63
$309,000.00
98.85
Brookshire
4
2.5
2002
20
$315,000.00
112.82
Brookshire
5
3.5
2002
114
$334,500.00
119.81
161 W Putnam Ferry Road
Cherokee Hills
5
3
1979
7
$340,000.00
94.81
218 Cabin Creek Court
Deer Run
4
2.5
1994
52
$330,000.00
120.13 125.92
Address
Subdivision
Beds Baths Yr Built
$264,000.00
224 Ascott Lane
Belmont Trace
4
2.5
$145,000.00
1148 Britley Park Lane
Britley Park
2
1
$234,900.00
920 Santa Anita Drive
Brookshire
3
$309,000.00
543 Keeneland Avenue
Brookshire
$315,000.00
702 Waveland Drive
$340,000.00
546 Ashland Parkway
$335,000.00 $320,000.00 $339,900.00
8006 Ridge Valley
Deer Run
4
2.5
1996
6
$340,500.00
$234,900.00
1312 COBBLESTONE Lane
Eagle Watch
4
2
1989
2
$234,900.00
77.37
$254,900.00
3704 Broken Arrow Lane
Eagle Watch
3
2
1989
0
$260,000.00
151.07 143.06
$398,800.00
3402 Doral Lane
Eagle Watch
4
3.5
1989
24
$396,000.00
$719,900.00
1021 Olde Towne Lane
Estates at Towne Lake
8
6.5
1998
13
$700,000.00
93.21
$245,000.00
328 Etowah Valley Trace
Etowah Valley Estates
4
3
1993
2
$248,500.00
107.11
$260,000.00
403 Etowah Valley Way
Etowah Valley Estates
4
3.5
1995
3
$270,000.00
102.66
$428,500.00
523 Fairway Drive
Fairways At Towne Lake
5
4.5
1990
13
$428,500.00
115.62
$302,000.00
1501 Lake Koinonia Drive
Kingston Square
4
2.5
1987
93
$297,550.00
93.83
$189,840.00
313 Parkview Place
Parkview At Towne Lake
2
2
1997
2
$189,800.00
150.16 101.96
See all the photos and details of these sold listings at www.TowneLakeListings.com $279,000.00
2008 Providence Walk
Providence Place
4
3
1998
100
$285,500.00
$292,000.00
2152 Summerchase Drive
Summerchase
4
3
1993
82
$287,500.00
116.02
$369,845.00
234 Cardinal Lane
Summit at Towne Lake
3
2
2018
250
$355,000.00
190.96 126.03
$350,000.00
1111 Arborhill Drive
The Arbors
5
2.5
1989
5
$337,000.00
$499,900.00
3535 Vintage Trail
The Fairways At Towne Lake
6
6
2001
204
$490,000.00
84.86
$365,900.00
411 Falling Water Avenue
The Village At Towne Lake
4
3
2006
232
$352,000.00
144.03 148.79
$225,000.00
1227 Harbor Cove
Towne Harbor
3
2
1992
56
$220,500.00
$325,000.00
1024 Towne Lake Hills E
Towne Lake Hills East
4
2.5
1993
67
$325,000.00
95.7
$475,900.00
5031 Winding Hills Lane
Towne Lake Hills East
6
5
1997
37
$470,000.00
88.11
$520,000.00
1057 TOWNE LAKE HILLS E
Towne Lake Hills East
5
4.5
1994
1
$505,000.00
94.48
$370,000.00
4020 Ironhill Lane
Towne Lake Hills West
4
3.5
1995
17
$373,000.00
106.42
$414,990.00
129 Grove View Road
Towne West
4
2.5
2018
51
$415,033.00
142.09
$248,000.00
2011 Township Drive
Township Place
3
2
1994
117
$245,000.00
140.97
$199,999.00
712 Mulberry Circle
Victoria Cottages
3
2.5
1991
317
$222,409.00
127.24
$575,000.00
507 Bentwood Drive
Victoria Cottages
4
5
1998
17
$535,000.00
80.11
$269,400.00
7124 Big Woods Drive
Wyngate
5
2.5
1993
35
$257,000.00
99.38
$265,000.00
3003 Cheshire Court
Wyngate
4
2.5
1998
2
$265,000.00
107.42
$267,000.00
1019 Elsberry Drive
Wyngate
3
2.5
1996
52
$267,000.00
122.82
$331,905
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
87
Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the February competition, "Frozen!"
Digital Projection:
1st Dean Kelley "School is Out"
2nd Patrick Moore "Sunrise Bubble"
Color Print:
1st Austin Mozley "Mr. Frosty"
HM Dayle Geroski "Fall on Ice" 88
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
3rd Becky Sapp "Frozen Treat"
2nd Karen Beedle "My Veins are Frozen"
3rd Sarah Kru
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. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.
uger "Frosty Toes"
HM Mark Mozley "Mist of Yellowstone"
Monochromatic:
2nd Donald Newton "First Snow Neel Gap"
1st Becky Sapp "Udderly Frozen"
3rd Rick Sapp "Ice Parade"
HM Mark Mozley "Frozen Bed" TOWNELAKER | April 2019
89
REFERENCE
TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org. Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. 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 Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen, 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.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. 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. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.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. 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.
90
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
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 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 Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org.
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.
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 ORGANIZATIONS
HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com.
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. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html.
HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com.
Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519.
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.
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. 770-516-3502.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. 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.
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. 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.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. 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.
Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. 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. 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. Light 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 ORGANIZATIONS
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: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. 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. Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net. 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. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.
VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS 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. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.
CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS
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 G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.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 Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop. 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.
Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687.
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.
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
Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.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. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
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 Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.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. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.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 | April 2019
91
COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
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: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 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 GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
92
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
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 Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com
Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 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
Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org
Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net
ROMAN CATHOLIC
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 Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org
OTHERS
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
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.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 God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock
678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org 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 Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.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 | April 2019
93
Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
April 2019
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES
CHIROPRACTIC
EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING
Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.animalatlanta.com
43
Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com
27
Answer Key 678-761-6364 www.answer-key.org
19
Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
83
Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
34
Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830 www.givingcareathome.com
39
Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com
47
Stem Hangar, The Cover, 48, 49 678-304-0088 www.thestemhangar.com
Towne Lake Pet Care 404-907-9778 www.townelakepetcare.com
5
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com
9
Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
5
Jones Family Law 770-479-1050 www.jonesfamilylawfirm.com
23
AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
43
Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
71
Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
First Baptist Woodstock www.easteratwoodstock.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES 73
Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com
75
31
Treasure Tax 678-888-4829 www.treasuretax.com
55
CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
FITNESS
DENTAL
Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.nelsoneldercarelaw.com
Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com
CHURCHES
1 33
BEAUTY SALON & SPA Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662
41
Salon Gloss 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz
51
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS INWDSTK 59 inwdstk.org/events
(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
41
1
13
Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com
65
Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com
5
Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 27 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 19 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.drwilliamsorthodontics.com
Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
45
Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com
Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org
83
CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
94
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
DRY CLEANING Designer Cleaners 770-592-2990
R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
7
33
HEALTH & WELLNESS Your CBD Store 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com
35
HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR
54
Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.clubpilates.com/woodstock
21
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
5
Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock
39
CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661
55
ClearView soft wash & pressure washing 35 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
7
Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com
45
Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
53
Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
63
North Atlanta Primary Care 770-442-1911 www.napc.md
L. Bean Interiors 770-824-8386
59
9
Eagle Watch Golf Club 404-960-9225
65
Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
23
Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com
77
71
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
45
Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-924-9656 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
3
15
Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com
23
Etowah Film Festival www.etowahfilmfestival.com
Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com Townlake Handyman Service 770-966-2945
7
19
INSURANCE State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net
61
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
Northside Vascular Surgery 770-292-3490 www.nvs-ga.com Perimeter North Medical Associates 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com
61
67
Plastic Surgery Center of the South 38 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Primary Care Plus, PC 678-574-3000
29
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
21
Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
43
Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com
47
Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
23
Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller 9 O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com Harry Norman Realtors, Gina Riggs 404-860-0159
OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST Thomas Eye Group 770-928-4544 www.thomaseye.com
55
PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
57
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology 59 Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.atlantagynonc.com Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists Woodstock: 770-852-7740 Canton: 678-493-2527 www.cherokeelungandsleep.com
45
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta www.choa.org/cpgortho
26
Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 57 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com GYN Surgical Specialists 404-303-3157 www.gynsurgicalspecialists.com
33
3
61
Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com
79
Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 29 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-500-8099 www.soliellaurelcanyon.com
69
Terrell Real Estate/ Remax 770-331-4403 www.toddterrell.com
41
Windsong Properties, Grace 770-516-3678 www.windsonglife.com
37
Canton Festival of the Arts www.cantonartfestival.com
Hillside UMC Charity Golf Tournament 63 www.menofhillside.org Kennesaw State Football 470-KSU-OWL www.ksuowls.com
73
Taste of Woodstock visitwoodstockga.com/taste
21
TLBA Golf Tournament www.tlba.org
54
RESTAURANTS/FOOD Copper Coin Coffee Inside front, 55 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910
7
RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
29
Queen Custom Couture 678-310-0257 www.queencustomcouture.com
19
Southern Sky Outlet 678-842-8411
47
Urban Renewal 678-398-7691 www.urcwoodstock.com
37
Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-3014 www.wbu.com/woodstock
37
SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Lodge at BridgeMill, The 833-358-4220 www.thelodgeatbridgemill.com
27
67
Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
11
76
Senior Extravaganza www.saltcherokee.com
83
RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT American Cancer Society Relay for Life 5K 800-227-2345 www.relayforlife.org/cherokeega
CYFA 69 www.cyfa.org
TOWNELAKER | April 2019
95
Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.
At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400
96
TOWNELAKER | April 2019