4-23 Around Canton webfinal.pdf

On the Cover

Canton

He’s on

team members Brent Pickens and William Botts, and here with wife Robin.

cover with

Cover photo by LaRuche Photography

LIVING WISER IN RETIREMENT

Never underestimate the impact that a wise decision can have over time. Even in retirement, our choices can determine how well we continue to live in the future.

If you’re considering moving to a retirement community, it’s never been more important to make a wise decision — one that takes into consideration all of the aspects that contribute to a happy, healthy lifestyle. At St. George Village, we take pride in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, with a wide range of activities, services and amenities to address individual needs. Additionally, our LifePlan structure offers the peace of mind that comes with protection of financial assets, as well as the assurance of continuing care. A decision to move to St. George Village is a choice to live confidently and independently in retirement.

Learn more about how St. George Village can be a wise investment for your retirement. Call 678-987-0409 for details. (Visit us at stgeorgevillage.org, and on Facebook to get a closer look at our lifestyle of active engagement.)

Advertise With Us

Our business is your business. We succeed when you succeed. And our goal is to help community businesses thrive. Our marketing experts have experience on the national and international level. They’ll help you put together an advertising program that targets your market, and fits your needs, style and budget. Let us put our experience to work for you!

Why choose us?

• Publishing in Cherokee County since 1996.

• Won Excellence in Customer Service and Small Business of the Year awards from the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce.

• Marketing experts with national, international account experience.

• Editorial team with 50-plus years’ experience with major metropolitan newspapers.

Get Started Today!

Around Canton

Readers’ Choice 2023!

After the nomination round ends March 31, be ready to start voting for your favorites on May 15 at https://aroundcantonmagazine.com. The top five nominees in each category will be on the ballot, which is open through June 30.

What’s New

Bryce Leatherwood , winner of NBC’s “The Voice,” will perform Aug. 25 at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater. Watch for details at woodstockparksandrec.com.

Cherokee High School’s boys basketball team finished as state runner-up to Wheeler High in the Class 7A 2023 GHSA Basketball State Championship in Macon. This season was the first time Cherokee High has advanced to the state championship since 1982.

Canton has been designated as a City of Civility by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). The city adopted a civility resolution in GMA’s new Embrace Civility program during a recent Council meeting. Canton is the third city in Georgia to make this commitment.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners recently made a proclamation commemorating the Rotary Club’s 118th birthday on Feb. 23. Chairman Harry Johnston presented the proclamation to representatives of Canton, Carpe Diem and Towne Lake Rotary Clubs in attendance, but the proclamation recognized Cherokee’s five clubs.

Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting

www.aroundcantonmagazine.com

Letter From the Editor

It’s time to brag on my team. Enough food talk, and how I still haven’t gotten completely on board the healthy-eating train. I’m still dragging one foot, but I’ll get there. As I sit here reviewing this month’s content, I’m struck by the strength and creativity of the editorial team: Content Editor Jessica Forrester and Managing Editor Donna Harris. Y’all get to enjoy the fruits of their labor each month, and I couldn’t be more proud of our print product! As I’ve always said and still say (say it with me): Print is NOT dead!! It’s alive and well and getting stronger here at Aroundabout Local Media.

In addition to sharing positive, relevant information with our readers through calendars and features, we’re upholding our mission to help local businesses grow and prosper. One way we do that is through our annual Readers’ Choice contest. The nomination round ended March 31, and the next step is the voting phase May 15-June 30. Go to any of our websites (all accessible here: www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com) and click on the Readers’ Choice 2023 tab to vote for businesses in each magazine’s ZIP codes. We will announce the winners in our August issues.

I’m glad one of the categories we’ve added this year is for your favorite

place to volunteer. This issue includes feedback from the nonprofits we listed in our holiday Helping Hands feature. We know our readers are compassionate, caring individuals, and your response to requests for helping others is proof! Check out the blessings on Pages 16-19.

There is no shortage of positive news to share each month. On Page 39, read about a local mom who is going to make 1,000 free throws in five hours to raise awareness and funds for a genetic disorder that her son was diagnosed with in 2010.

Outdoor enthusiasts involved in the Upper Etowah River Alliance work hard to preserve our county’s river and reservoirs. Turn to Pages 30-31 to learn more about the opportunities for recreation and service on the Etowah.

And because we care about your health, we want to encourage you to get outdoors and take part in one of the fastest-growing sports in the country: pickleball (Pages 36-37).

In fact, our goal for the year is to make you aware of the recreational opportunities for adults in Cherokee County, so stay tuned.

Mike Walls, co-author of this month’s feature, is part of our church and is kind enough to host lessons for us Ebenezerites who are willing to give it a try. Hopefully, I’ll be seeing you on the pickleball courts!

America’s Community Magazine

Volume 10, Issue 12

PUBLISHER

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Jennifer Coleman | 470-263-8414 jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Candi Hannigan | 770-615-3309 candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Donna Harris | 770-852-8481 donna@aroundaboutmagazines.com

CONTENT EDITOR

Jessica Forrester | 770-615-3318 jessica@aroundaboutmagazines.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Michelle McCulloch | 770-615-3307 michelle@aroundaboutmagazines.com

CONTROLLER

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

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Laura Latchford laura@aroundaboutmagazines.com Savannah Winn savannah@aroundaboutmagazines.com

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Kathryn Holt kat@aroundaboutmagazines.com

MARKET & ADVERTISING SPECIALIST | Michelle Smith michelle.smith@aroundaboutmagazines.com

COPY EDITORS

Bill King, Eliza Somers

Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. (ALM) publishes five hyperlocal magazines serving the communities of Canton, Woodstock, Towne Lake, Acworth and Kennesaw. Approximately 16,000 free copies are distributed monthly in each community, through direct bulk mail and first class mail; approximately 500 copies are available in magazine racks placed around each community.

Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: Around Canton, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189. The viewpoints of the advertisers, writers and other submissions do not necessarily reflect those of the editor/publisher. And the publisher makes no claims

to the validity of any opinions expressed by charitable, business or civic organizations mentioned, or statements made within the editorial content. The cover and inside related article, and other editorial-type submissions labeled SPONSORED CONTENT, are paid content. The publisher neither guarantees nor supports any product or service mentioned in this magazine, nor does it guarantee any assertions made by the manufacturers or providers of such products or services, or claims regarding the status of such businesses.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2023.

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

CantonIN town

APRIL

Easter Eggstravaganza

April 1, 1-3 p.m., Etowah River Park

There will be free activities for all ages, including a petting zoo, carnival games, Easter egg hunts, snacks, music and more. www.cantonga.gov/events

Trivia Night on the Green

April 6, 7 p.m., the Mill on Etowah

On Thursdays, gather your dream team and compete for first-, second- and thirdplace prizes. www.etowahmill.com/events

Tuesday Market

April 11, 3-7 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Every Tuesday, shop products from local creators, bakers, butchers, farmers and more. www.etowahmill.com/events

March for Babies

April 15, 8 a.m., Etowah River Park

Join a 1K and participate in family engagement activities. http://bit.ly/3mFZECD

Georgia Players Guild

April 15, 8:30-10 p.m., Canton Theatre

Don’t miss the performance of Champions — A Queen Tribute. http://bit.ly/3HR7OyT

German Shepherd Dog Club Show

April 21-23, Etowah River Park

There will be four spring specialty shows. Entries close April 5. Times to be announced. http://bit.ly/3lj7yS3

Taste of Canton

April 22, 4:30-8:30 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Sample appetizers, entrees, coffees and desserts from local chefs and restaurants. Admission is free. Food tickets are $1 per sample. www.cantonga.gov/events

Kid Biz Expo

April 23, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Stop by the vendor market of kid entrepreneurs. https://bit.ly/3mRZzMo

Hear, Here: The Georgia Gold

Rush

April 25, 7 p.m., Cherokee County History Center

Join Jose Santamaria, author and director of the Tellus Science Museum, to learn about the origin and geology of Georgia’s gold mining and more. https://historycherokee.org/events

Peaberry Film Festival

April 28-30, Canton Theatre

A continuation of the Etowah Film Festival, audiences can connect with films on the big screen. https:// peaberryproductions.com/film-festival

Street Dog Dash 5K

April 29, 8 a.m., Etowah River Park

Bring your dog, and put your paws to the pavement for a great cause. Proceeds from the race benefit Soi Dog Foundation and local shelters. www.streetdogdash5k.org

Garden in the Park

April 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Cannon Park

There will be handmade art, homegrown plants and more. https://bit.ly/3RP7iGr

Walking on Sunshine 5K

April 30, 8 a.m., Etowah River Park

The race will benefit The Sunshine Kids, a nonprofit dedicated to children with cancer. http://bit.ly/3JB14r7

MAY

Cherokee Chase 5K

May 6, 8 a.m., Etowah River Park

Registration begins at 7 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8 a.m. and a 1-mile fun run at 9 a.m. http://bit.ly/3Tdh6e7

Kentucky Derby Day

May 6, 4:30-7:30 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Enjoy gourmet food, cocktails, bourbon tastings, a silent auction, pony pull and more. https://historycherokee.org/events

Upriver Fest

May 13, 4-10 p.m., The Mill on Etowah

Benefiting Goshen Valley, the event kicks off with a 5K at 4 p.m. At 5 p.m., a set of Cherokee County artists will perform. There will be food, drinks, vendors, a kids corner and more. http://bit.ly/3mTNbeC

First Fridays

Great food and live music in downtown Canton. Check for updates at www.facebook.com/CantonGAFirstFriday.

The Return May 5

The Troubadour Project — June 2

The Rupert’s Orchestra July 7 Elton Live Aug. 4

Purple Madness Sept. 1

Street Dog Dash 5K race directors Josh and Michelle Williams.

Get to Know

Lauren Johnson

The City of Canton’s Communications Manager

What is your background?

I have been with the city of Canton for a little more than two awesome years. I worked in the corporate world for five years before that, but got my start in marketing and communications in 2005 at Reinhardt University, where I worked for 10 years. I attended the University of West Georgia, and received a bachelor’s in business administration in 2004. Then, I went straight into the master’s in professional writing program at Kennesaw State University to earn my degree in 2008.

What is your main responsibility?

To tell the story of the city of Canton. To showcase all of the incredible projects we work on every day to improve the lives of our citizens. To feature the people that do the hard work, the important work, the behind-the-scenes work. To help our citizens understand what services and resources are available to them. I do all of this through our social media channels, website, emails, newsletters, text messaging, press releases and by being an ambassador at events and activities.

Describe a typical day on the job.

There’s always something new, exciting or informative to let the public know about. I have to switch gears a lot when new things come onto my plate that might take priority over something else I may have been working on. And, because we are a team at Canton, I could be helping one day at an event popping popcorn or helping pick up trash the next. There is not a typical day for me, so that’s just one more reason why I love my job so much!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the Hickory Level Community of Temple, Georgia, a quaint town close to the Georgia-Alabama line.

What do you like most about your job?

I come to my job each day with pure joy. I am so excited to be a part of all the exciting things happening in the city. We truly are a team, supporting one another and cheering each other on!

What is the most unusual job you’ve done?

Taking photos for the city sometimes can put me in unique predicaments to capture the essence of an event, place or person, i.e., sitting in the middle of the road, leaning out of a window of a moving vehicle or riding a bike one-handed.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I am excited about the third annual Multicultural Festival in September. It’s such an amazing event that brings so many cultures together by featuring food, dance and entertainment from different countries.

What are your goals?

I’d like to become certified to fly a professional drone, to capture video and still imagery for the city, on demand.

How do you like to spend time off?

About two years ago — yes, during the pandemic if you are wondering, haha — I picked up the hobby of furniture refinishing and building. Now, I have an entire woodworking shop set up in my garage just for my hobby! I also love to go on any adventure with my husband and kids, including camping and trying out new restaurants.

Lauren Johnson volunteers at MUST Ministries’ summer lunch program.

STRONGER TOGETHER

Through Networking

Aroundabout Local Media continues its mission to help local businesses grow and prosper. This is what it looks like when entrepreneurs in the community meet to exchange ideas and information and develop relationships by supporting and encouraging one another while opening doors to new opportunities.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

Power Hour Networking is held monthly, 10-11 a.m., at the chamber office, 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton. Business After Hours meets monthly in rotating chamber member businesses, except July and August, 4:30-6 p.m. Good Morning Cherokee breakfasts are held monthly, excluding January and July, 6:30-9 a.m. at 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton. https://cherokeechamber.com

Canton Business Club

Meets 8 a.m. Wednesdays at Reformation Brewery. https://bit.ly/3FLJjU2

Ball Ground Business Club

Meets 10:30 a.m. Fridays at Rock Solid Brewing Co. https://bit.ly/3FQMpGE

Ball Ground Business & Community Association

Meets monthly on the second Wednesday, either at breakfast, lunch or after hours. www.ballgroundbusinessassociation.com

Business associations in Canton are invited to send photos from their monthly meetings to edit@ aroundaboutmagazines.com. Please include the names of everyone in each photo, along with the date, time and location of your meetings.

Ball Ground Business Club attendees converse after a March meeting.

Photo by Katherine France.

Becca Bonno of Rebecca Bonno Photography, left, and Cheryl Good of DCG Insurance Service Inc. at a Canton Business Club meeting. Photo by Bronson Kurtz.

Karen Sampson, left, and Adriana Kimsey at a Canton Business Club meeting. Photo by Bronson Kurtz.

Chattahoochee Technical College President Ron Newcomb presents at the Chamber’s February Business After Hours meeting.

Summer Internship Program Now Accepting Applications

BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Employer applications and student sign-up sheets now are available for the 2023 Cherokee Summer Internship Program. In partnership with Cherokee County School District, this program was launched in 2018 by the Cherokee Workforce Collaborative, a community-based alliance created by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), to strengthen the county’s

pipeline of skilled workers and meet the needs of existing and future industry.

The Cherokee Summer Internship Program gives students the opportunity to build their resumes and earn money during their summer break. The program also assists them with making decisions about their future career plans.

“I had one of the best times of my life working as a human resources intern at Universal Alloy Corp.,” 2022 intern Bailey Hancock said. “I loved going to work every day, and I ended the summer with no regrets. I was in between human resources and therapy as career options before, but I think I may pursue a career in human resources after my internship.”

Rising juniors and seniors, as well as graduating seniors, are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. The 2023 program includes paid positions and lasts for six weeks, from June 5 through July 14. During orientation, interns will learn about financial management and workplace communication.

“Summer is our busiest season, so it was great having an extra set of hands to help with our increased workload,” Canton Tire and Wheel owner Delease Chester said.

“The Cherokee Summer Internship Program is now in its sixth year, and offers a unique opportunity for students to gain leadership skills and explore career paths of interest to them after they graduate from high school,” said Misti Martin, president and CEO of COED. “We appreciate our local companies who continue to support this program each year, to make it a success.”

The application deadline is May 19. To learn more, or to apply to the 2023 Cherokee Summer Internship Program, call COED at 770-3450600 or visit www.cherokeega.org/ internships.

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment as well as industry retention and expansion in Cherokee County.

Universal Alloy Corp. 2022 intern Bailey Hancock, seated, with 2021 intern Lindsey Hobby.

Canton Tire and Wheel owner Delease Chester with 2022 intern Alex Yarber.

HEROES Our Hometown

In our November and December issues, we ran a listing of ways (Helping Hands) our readers could help local nonprofits and government agencies that work to enrich the lives of those less fortunate in our community. You — our hometown heroes — responded in a powerful way. Read on to see the good news about how you and your neighbors made a difference during the holiday season, as well as ways you can help throughout the year.

WarAngel Farms Rescue and Rehabilitation

www.warangelfarms.com

From

Casey Montana, founder

We received extra donations for blankets, some gently used horse blankets and gained new volunteers/followers! Overall, we definitely have gotten many wonderful volunteers from your magazine throughout the year. In 2023, we could use more animal lovers who want to become monthly sponsors at any level. This helps us care for the current rescues at the farm.

Goshen Valley Foundation

www.goshenvalley.org

From Caitlin Brunson, marketing and community engagement coordinator

We had incredible support from the community during the holidays. Woodstock City Church sent more than 600 volunteers to help with landscaping, decorating for Christmas and wrapping hundreds of gifts for the boys at Goshen Valley Boys Ranch. We saw huge support from the community at large helping us to purchase gifts off our Amazon Wish Lists for the 117 foster kids at Goshen during the holidays. The community rallies around our kids at Christmas, and we truly couldn’t do it without its support. We are so grateful to everyone who touched our kids’ lives! Our 2023 needs are focused around a big need for foster parents in Cherokee and Cobb counties. At Goshen Homes, we license, train and recruit foster parents to work with sibling groups in foster care. That’s because more than 75% of siblings in foster care are separated, and we believe siblings are better together. If you or someone you know might be interested in becoming a foster parent or getting involved at Goshen Homes, visit fosterwithgoshen.org to download the fostering guide.

The Children’s Haven

https://cherokeechildrenshaven.org

From Daphne Mullen, office manager

The end of the year always is crazy and heartwarming for us. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, we had people drop off holiday pajamas and gift cards for the children we serve. We had a tremendous amount of support from individual donors, local families and businesses within the community. People held drives for needed items in our Caregivers’ Closet, helped sort and organize donations, volunteered at our events and called to ask how they could best assist us. We love the generosity our community continues to show, and the support helps us serve the needs of children impacted by abuse and neglect within our county.

We were able to provide holiday gifts for more than 100 children. These were/are youth in foster care and at-risk youth served by our four programs: CASA Cherokee, WellStar Visitation, PCA Cherokee and Chin Up.

In 2023, we are in need of items to stock our Caregivers’ Closet – new sneakers for toddlers through teens, girls’ camisoles, boys’ undershirts, baby wash, etc. Contact us for an up-to-date list. Additionally, gift cards always are welcome.

Some of the sweet donors who dropped off new holiday pajamas had mentioned reading the Helping Hands article. This definitely helped us reach farther afield and spread awareness of our holiday needs.

Horse blankets donated to WarAngel Farms especially were handy during the December cold snap.

Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program

https://bit.ly/3lkJMlV

From Jim Lindenmayer, director

We had more than 50 volunteers helping us sort, pack and donate the 5,000 coats we collected on Dec. 16. Our timing could not have been better, as we provided coats to more than six veteran and military organizations and more than 15 area nonprofits — from the Atlanta area, as well as local nonprofits like MUST Ministries — in time to get them out for the cold weather that came at Christmas. We actually ran out of coats. This year, our goal is 7,500.

The Adopt a Vet program again allowed us to provide Christmas necessities to many low-income, homeless and senior homebound veterans around Cherokee County. We had a number of volunteers help with decorating, serving food, cooking and with the food pantry donations. Without volunteers, we could not do what we have done in our program. In total, our programs reached more than 5,500 people during the holidays. Community support is so important to us because all of the funds we receive are from local people and corporate entities, and the funds stay local. We always are in need of food items for low-income families and those that we house. For those we house in hotels, we are asking for microwave food, as many hotels no longer have kitchens.

We recently built 125 homeless veteran backpacks with a corporate client, and we are looking to build another 500 during the spring. Through the end of May, the following items are needed: small tarps, ponchos, white socks, foot powder, energy bars, small toiletries, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, paracord, foot warmers, flashlights, batteries, fire blankets, first-aid kits, resealable gallon bags, prepaid phone cards, wet wipes, gift cards, backpacks and small facial tissue packs. (These items were designed by two homeless veterans, one male, one female, with the goal to help a homeless veteran survive on the streets for up to 48 hours.)

The Hope Box

www.thehopebox.org/donate

Sarah Koeppen, CEO and founder

During the holidays, we held a Mommy Mart and a baby shower for mothers and infants in need. We had such a need for gift cards, baby diapers, formula, car seats, clothing and more. We are so grateful for all of the volunteers and staff that helped meet the needs of so many. In 2023, continued financial partners, gift cards, baby items and volunteers are needed.

Caring Christmas

https://caringchristmas.org

From Doug Whitney, community pastor

In December, we had a Caring Christmas event at First Baptist Woodstock, where families from the community were helped with Christmas gifts for their kids. More than 700 people attended the event, with more than 80 volunteers. Families came for a fun party with snacks, games and giveaways. As the families left, they were given the Christmas gifts donated for their children.

Our church had the pleasure of providing Christmas gifts for 505 kids, representing 176 families. Each child received at least three clothing items and three toys from their wish lists. We had more than 100 families sponsor at least one child. To watch some clips from the event, visit https://vimeo.com/780366693/109b55efec.

Resealable bags keep items dry inside homeless veteran backpacks.

During the holiday season, The Hope Box held events like baby showers to help mothers and infants in need.

Adopt a Senior 2022 and Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency

www.cherokeega.com, www.playcherokee.org

From Erika Neldner, Cherokee County communications director

Adopt a Senior: More than 250 seniors adopted. Hugs in a Blanket: 984 items donated.

According to Cherokee County Senior Services Resource Coordinator De Gale, there definitely was an uptick in community donations for Adopt a Senior and Hugs in a Blanket. Going into 2023, Senior Services will continue to ask for help for Stand Up For Seniors to raise money for the Last Stop program, and Cherokee County Parks and Recreation will have the Some Bunny Special program running through April 4.

Cherokee Secret Santa

www.cherokeesanta.com

From Penny DePuy, Secret Santa coordinator

We sincerely appreciate all the support we receive from the community. Because of our amazing sponsors, we were able to provide an amazing Christmas to the 400-plus children in Cherokee Division of Family & Children Services custody. In addition to presents, Secret Santa provides school supplies, hygiene kits, age-appropriate stuffed stockings, books, food boxes and more. Anyone interested in sponsoring a child at Christmas, or learning about other support needs throughout the year, can visit www.cherokeesanta.com or call 678-235-5519.

Simple Needs GA

www.simpleneedsga.org

From Brenda Rhodes, founder

We had an increase in the number of volunteers; some were directly because of your publications, so thank you! We were able to help more children this past Christmas than in previous years. Overall, we provided gifts (plus board games, hats, gloves and scarves) for 307 kids in 108 families. Each mom and/ or dad also received a Walmart gift card.

And, some of the volunteers who helped at Christmas time have returned to help us! We’re hoping a few will become regulars, including one who read about us in Around Kennesaw.

Now, our greatest need is for gently used mattresses/box springs/beds as well as other essential furniture and kitchen/bed/bath items. We also need items that we give to our birthday children. We update this list about once a week with our most needed items: https://simpleneedsgablog.com/drives.

Volunteers who would like to become regulars by volunteering on Saturdays once or twice a month are needed. And, we need volunteers with pickup trucks, and those who are willing to pick up furniture donations and deliver to our clients.

Cherokee Family Violence Center

www.cfvc.org/donate-now

From Stephanie Villasenor, outreach coordinator

We are so thankful for the overwhelming response Cherokee Family Violence Center (CFVC) received from Aroundabout magazine readers over the holidays. After the publication of the November and December issues, we received more calls than normal regarding donations for our clients — about half of those callers mentioned they saw the magazine posting. We are thrilled to have received enough bed and bath linens to cover our shelter needs for six months, as well as a large number of laundry and dish detergent pods. If you called, emailed or just dropped off donations for us, we thank you!

In 2023, donations of journals and day planners to use in case management sessions and workshops would benefit our clients. We also need at least 12 new microwaves that we can add to move-in kits for new families. CFVC set up Amazon Wish Lists for some of our most-used products. You can find several lists at https://cfvc.org/donate-now. If your family or organization would like to partner with CFVC in 2023, email stephanie@cfvc.org.

2022 Adopt a Senior donations served more than 250 seniors.

North Georgia Angel House

https://angelhousega.com

From Susan Worsley, executive director and CEO

The influx of volunteers during the holiday season was heartwarming. We had sponsors for each of our girls. All of their needs were met with each item they asked for and a whole lot more.

Our friends and neighbors donated gift cards to have a supply ready when we accept new girls in our home, to purchase clothing and incidentals. One of our neighbors donated a gift card to each of the employees as a thank you for their hard work. It was unexpected and greatly appreciated.

We had sponsors for the children of our girls that come home every year for the Home for the Holidays meal. This year, volunteers donated, catered and served dinner to almost 100 former children, spouses and partners so we could spend time visiting with our former youth.

Volunteers helped decorate the home, inventory gifts and meet the needs of our kids during the most challenging time of the year. In a world where the news is filled with crimes and sad stories, we are reminded Cherokee County is filled with many kind, giving and supportive individuals who work tirelessly to help us meet the needs of our girls. Our investment in others is more than a job; it’s a ministry. We thank God every day for the good in our community.

Our needs going into 2023 include landscaping, siding, remodeling a building for our newly established school, drying in a space for a “she shed,” adding 10 more singleoccupancy apartments to our campus, and building a reception center at the entrance of our campus. Please let me know if you have time, talent or resources to lend a hand. We love our volunteers.

MUST Ministries

www.mustministries.org

From Katy Ruth Camp, director of marketing and public relations

Generally, we see about a 20% to 25% increase in the number of volunteers who serve during the holiday season. Not only do people want to give back more during the holidays, but events and programs like the Gobble Jog, our toy shops and holiday meals at the MUST Hope House inspire more people to give back.

Community support makes everything we do possible. Our MUST team could not begin to serve the 62,000 we now are serving annually without volunteers.

We always are working hard to serve more of our neighbors in need. Donations help provide food, housing, jobs, health care and clothing, plus a host of other resources, like toiletries, diapers, cold weather shelter and summer lunches for hungry children.

In 2023, our needs include:

• More food for the MUST Mobile Pantry.

• More volunteers to help serve more clients at every location.

• Volunteers to work in our new MUST Marketplace thrift store, opening in east Cobb this month.

• Support for the future health care clinic being established in MUST’s new facility on Highway 41.

Cherokee Family Violence Center received bed and bath linens, laundry and dish detergent, and more.

Volunteers helped meet the needs of North Georgia Angel House kids, as well as those of the children of former youth.

10 Ways to Celebrate National Volunteer Month

BY SUSANNAH MACKAY

This month is the perfect time to get involved with volunteering. There are so many needs near home, and new opportunities are available weekly. Usually, the hardest part is just getting started. After that, you won’t want to stop!

The best way to begin volunteering is to focus on finding a good fit for you. Is there a cause that is important to you, or a certain day or time you are free? Maybe you want to have a specific group of people involved? JustServe works with nonprofits and local charities — across the Atlanta area, and the world! — to make sure needs are listed on justserve. org, making it easier for volunteers to get involved. There are so many opportunities to choose from; here are some great examples to help you find your best fit.

• Families — Volunteer in the Keep Families Together Resource Center in Kennesaw. Children are welcome!

https://bit.ly/3kzcDpj

• Crafters — Join the Northside Hospital Foundation in crocheting blankets and graduation hats for babies in intensive care.

https://bit.ly/3IFsFWB

• Outdoor Lovers — Help prevent water pollution by marking storm drains in Cobb County.

https://bit.ly/3IKD2bs

• Homebodies — Become a Smithsonian digital volunteer, and help make historical documents and biodiversity data more accessible. https://bit.ly/3J4eH1I

• Performers — Share your talents, such as sewing, legacy projects, participating in programs and more, with someone in hospice.

https://bit.ly/3KOzVly

• Drivers — Deliver meals to seniors with MUST Ministries.

https://bit.ly/3Zxu5Jp

• Cooks — Make dinner for the Ronald McDonald House near Scottish Rite Hospital.

https://bit.ly/3mkeajq

• Linguists — Become a Spanish translator for MUST Ministries in Canton. https://bit.ly/3kHxK8O

• Readers — Donate books for children to Cobb Collaborative.

https://bit.ly/3IJ8gzZ

• Pet Lovers — Help out at Mostly Mutts in Kennesaw. https://bit.ly/3ZArUVo

Be sure to check out these great opportunities — and more! — on the JustServe website. Or, for additional ideas, join the JustServe Georgia Volunteers public Facebook group. Celebrate National Volunteer Month with simple acts of service!

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

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

Volunteers take Mostly Mutts dogs for a walk.

A volunteer stops to pet a Mostly Mutts rescue, while on a walk.

Summer Camp For Your Child Pick the Perfect

SUBMITTED BY CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS

Trying to decide where to send your child for summer camp can be overwhelming! Here are five ways to help you pick the best place for your future camper.

1. Start with your child. Assess if the camp fits your child’s interests and needs. There are many options, from day camps to overnight residential camps, where campers can stay for a week or longer. Check the facility to see if the camp takes place indoors or outdoors. Numerous specialty camps also offer unique themes such as robotics, horseback riding and fishing. Options also include inclusive therapeutic camps.

2. Check the safety of the environment. Assess the facility to see if it appears safe and maintained. Check if the staff is required to have first aid/CPR certifications, and if they go through adequate training prior to the beginning of summer. Ask for recommendations from the community about the camp. If you read a lot of negative reviews, it might be best to look for another location.

3. Make sure it benefits your family. Review how much it costs to attend, and determine if it is financially achievable. If not, ask if they have scholarship assistance. Research the hours of operation and the dates that are available to ensure they work for you and your family, especially if you are utilizing the camp for child care. Look at the camp’s mission statements to see if its overall philosophy matches your family’s.

4. Consider the activity schedule. Ask about a day in the life of the camper so you know what your camper will be doing. Do they remain stationary all day, are they constantly rotating through activities, or are they going out on field trips within the community? Does the schedule seem repetitive or do campers get to experience new things and opportunities each day?

5. Weigh the benefits for your child. Camp should be a time for fun and allow kids to be kids. Make sure the camp looks like an environment where your child will thrive socially, and will have opportunities to grow independently or leave camp having gained a new skill. Ensure the camp can accommodate any specific needs your camper requires, supporting them in any way.

For Rising Kindergartners and First-Graders

Time: 9 a.m. - noon daily

Price: $100 for one-week session

JUNE 19-23

JUNE 26-30

APRIL 27

4:30 8:30

to

Celebrating Volunteers and Earth Day at Allatoona Lake

BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS

Anyone who has been around Allatoona knows how important volunteers are to conserving natural resources around the lake. The Great Lake Allatoona Cleanup (GLAC) and the Lake Allatoona Association’s (LAA) Lake Warriors are prime examples of volunteers coming together for environmental concerns. Furthermore, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) volunteers have been instrumental in assisting with the Allatoona Lake Native Pollinator and Habitat Restoration Program.

To celebrate Earth Day this year, USACE staff, partners and volunteers will be attending a tree-grafting workshop, held by Josh Fuder from the University of Georgia Cherokee Extension, at the Allatoona Volunteer Village. Approximately 100 apple

tree rootstocks will be grafted and grown at the on-site hoop house for one season. In 2024, volunteers, staff and partners will plant the trees into a newly established research orchard, to help students and professors reintroduce different apple species into the northwest Georgia area.

This is not all that USACE volunteers and partners have accomplished in the past few months. In October, USACE rangers and volunteers joined Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) biologists and LAA volunteers in planting 1,000 water willows and 100 maidencanes in Rose Creek. The same groups came together again in February, along with volunteers from E3 Bassmasters and Marietta Bassmasters, to plant 380 buttonbushes near Sweetwater Day Use

Area. More than 300 of the plants were cultivated in USACE’s hoop house and maintained throughout the year by volunteers and park rangers. These aquatic plants not only are used for erosion control on the shoreline, but also as beneficial fish habitats for native fish species in the lake.

Another effort, now in its seventh year at Allatoona, is the Bamboo Fish Attractor Program. During late winter, USACE rangers and volunteers cut bamboo on government property to create the attractors. The environmental importance of this program is twofold. First, bamboo is an invasive species that is removed from the area. Second, the bamboo then is recycled and used in making fish structures and habitats. Additionally, small tubes of bamboo are cut and used in the creation of bee houses, produced by the volunteers, which also are used in the pollinator program.

Finally, USACE staff planted trees during late winter. The Nature Conservancy donated 250 longleaf pines that rangers were able to get in the ground in February for Georgia Arbor Day. Silky dogwoods, flowering redbuds and persimmon trees, maintained by rangers and volunteers in the hoop house through the winter, also were planted in early March. These native trees have a profound role in the environment — providing habitat and food for wildlife, bearing fruit and seeds, and harboring pollinating insects that help sustain ecosystem biodiversity.

Volunteers play a major role in helping USACE and our partners maintain a healthy environment around the lake. With the help of the community and volunteers, projects such as these will continue to thrive and grow in number.

Christopher Purvis is lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over partnerships, volunteers and project security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

Volunteers plant 380 buttonbushes near Sweetwater Day Use Area.

Cherokee Fire Internationally Accredited

BY HARRY JOHNSTON

Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services (CCFES) has come a long way in the past 25 years, from a mostly volunteer service to the first-class, fully professional department it is today. That journey isn’t over, but CCFES reached a new high March 1, when it joined the elite ranks of internationally accredited fire agencies. That’s the gold standard for fire departments, with only 14 in Georgia having earned that recognition.

We all owe congratulations and thanks to the fire team, led by current Chief Eddie Robinson, and former Chiefs Tim Prather and Raymond Gunnin.

CCFES grew out of the former Little River Fire District. Outside that small area in south Cherokee, volunteers provided the only fire protection in unincorporated Cherokee County through 1998. By then, the county’s population had reached about 130,000, and it was time for a change. That year, voters approved a countywide fire tax, and the journey began.

The first step was to put one paid firefighter in each of the then-volunteer fire stations at all times. All firefighters were medically trained to at least the emergency medical technician level. The firefighter on duty would drive the fire engine to the scene of any emergency, and volunteers would meet him or her there. That process worked pretty well at night and on weekends, when volunteers were available, but not as well during weekdays.

As the county’s tax digest and revenues grew, the paid staff gradually was expanded to two firefighters per shift on each engine, and more and better equipment was added. County ambulance service was brought into CCFES in 2003. Some of the smallest and oldest stations were replaced with modern structures, and more were added to fill gaps in coverage. The

volunteer units began to fade away and eventually disbanded. The county’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating initially was set at 5 on a scale of 1 (best) to 10 (no fire coverage). A first-class fire training center was added in 2013, helping to improve the ISO rating to 3. Medical coverage continued to improve, with advanced life support paramedics and equipment on all ambulances and most fire trucks. (Fire trucks actually respond to far more medical calls than fire calls.) The ISO rating further improved to 2 in 2018. That’s exceptionally good for a large, and still fairly rural, county.

The goal for the build-out is to staff 24 modern fire stations with at least three firefighters per engine (four on the bigger ladder trucks), with paramedics on all trucks, plus enough reserve personnel to maintain those staffing levels during normal absences. Chief Robinson reported recently the department needs just 35 more firefighters, including the staffing of one more station, to reach those goals, and he hopes to achieve that within the next two years. It will take a few more years to replace all the old station buildings, but the ones still in use are functionally adequate.

It’s fitting CCFES should receive international accreditation when on the cusp of achieving its 25-year professional build-out process. It not only recognizes the excellence the department has achieved; it provides a demanding roadmap to further excellence as a condition of maintaining the accreditation.

Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He’s a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner. Email him at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.

Canton’s Recovery From

BY THE WANDERER

If there are any avid gamers reading, they’ll almost certainly recognize this quote from Fallout character Joshua Graham: “I survived because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fires around me.” The same can be said of a city, as well. Most of us are familiar with the rebuilding of Chicago after the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, or know that the Phoenix is considered a symbol of Atlanta, referencing its rebirth after the Union Army burned much of it in 1864. These are large metropolitan areas, whose survival really was not surprising. However, when disasters strike smaller communities, their survival might be imperiled. Canton has endured two significant fires in its history, both worthy of mention.

The first is the most famous, the largest and the one that could have spelled the end. In July 1864, Atlanta had fallen to the Union Army. Many people in the North felt that capturing Atlanta would itself end the war. However, the reality was emerging that this was not the case. As such, Gen. William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea began. It ran from Nov. 15 through Dec. 21 of that year, and stands as the most destructive campaign against a civilian population in the Civil War. Its goal was to break the spirit of the South to continue fighting. And, as the war ended scarcely four months later, it can be argued that, while brutal, it accomplished its mission.

Once resolved upon this course, and shortly before leaving, the 5th Ohio Cavalry Regiment, under command of Maj. Thomas Heath, burned Canton to the ground, specifically targeting the home of Gov. Joseph Brown. It was done sometime during the first week of November. The versions I’ve read vary some, but more than half of the city was destroyed, and most reports estimate the destruction at closer to two-thirds of the town. While Canton served as Cherokee’s county seat, the town’s population was only around 200 people at the time. So, its survival was not a sure thing. As an example, in neighboring Cass County (today Bartow County), the county seat of Cassville likewise was burned around the same time (Nov. 5, 1864), and it never was rebuilt. The county seat instead was relocated to Cartersville, where it remains to this day.

Less known, but equally serious, was a fire that broke out in downtown Canton on July 29, 1955. This time, it was not a deliberate act; it was the result of an industrial accident. The Cantex Manufacturing

The Main Street Garage, owned by R. Tyre Jones, burned during the 1955 Cantex fire.

Linemen work on power lines after the Cantex fire.

by Fire

From the Flames of War and Industry

facility, a textile plant making corduroy fabric, was a significant employer at the time.

In textile operations, fine fibers separate from the cloth during processing, — generically referred to as lint — and represent a constant fire hazard. It’s believed that a boiler explosion ignited a fire. With the ready supply of lint as fuel, it spread quickly, consuming not only the entire manufacturing plant, but also damaging or destroying nearby businesses, including a Chevrolet dealership, a grocery store, the Main Street garage and the offices of the local paper (The North Georgia Tribune). Firefighters from Canton and neighboring communities battled the blaze, extinguishing it eventually, but not before it caused significant damage and loss of life.

The obituary of Jonah Chadwick tells the story succinctly and poignantly: “Funeral services for Jonah A. Chadwick, 44, who died in the $1,500,000 Canton fire, were held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Cumming. Officiating were the Rev. Paul Thompson, the Rev. Jay Bottoms and the Rev. Jay Sewell. Burial was in the churchyard. Mr. Chadwick’s body was recovered Friday. He was a jig operator at the Cantex Co., a corduroy manufacturing plant, which was one of five businesses that burned.”

I don’t know where the dollar figure referenced came from, but $1.5 million in 1955, adjusted for inflation, represents the equivalent of just over $16.5 million today. Except for a reference in November 1958 of the settling of a legal dispute between Cantex and the insurance company over what was and was not included in the policy’s coverage, I can find no other mention of Cantex, and I believe it closed its doors forever.

That was not so for the city of Canton; it has carried on from the flames of war and those of industrial calamity — perhaps, in part, because the spirit of its residents always has burned brighter than any fire that thus far has attempted to consume it.

• http://bit.ly/3ImXAXk

• https://bit.ly/3xIyBcg

• http://bit.ly/3IldPV5

The Wanderer has been a resident of Cherokee County for nearly 20 years, and constantly is learning about his community on daily walks, which totaled a little more than 2,000 miles in 2022. Send questions or comments to wanderingga@gmail.com.

Canton Resident Teaches, Preaches Healing Ministry

BY MARGARET MILLER

As a boy growing up in Roanoke, Virginia, John Penn wanted to become a pediatrician so he could heal sick children. The compassionate youth didn’t become a pediatrician, but, as an adult, he is in the business of healing spiritually. And, he has a doctorate degree, although in theology, not medicine.

The transition from the medical to the spiritual was neither quick nor easy. After finishing high school, Penn attended college. “When I completed my undergraduate degree, I received grants from the National Science Foundation to work toward a master’s degree in general science,” Penn said. “Although I did not complete that degree, I received enough credits to become certified as a general science teacher.”

While teaching, Penn considered applying to medical school so he could fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a pediatrician. But it was then that his life was changed forever. “The Lord called me to enter the ordained ministry, and the rest is history.” After his spiritual conversion, he received a dynamic and amazing call to ordained ministry. Some ministers have said they resisted the call at first, but Penn said he had no hesitation: “I felt compelled to enter the ministry, and I am still serving the church of Jesus Christ.”

Penn taught for several years before pursuing a degree at Oral Roberts University (ORU). There he earned his master’s in theology. He was then given an opportunity to serve a student appointment as pastor of a United Methodist Church in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

“This gave me an opportunity to determine if the ordained ministry was right for me. It was,” Penn said.

That degree is just one of many the pastor earned. “In addition to the Master of Theology from ORU, I have a bachelor’s in music from the University

of Arkansas of Pine Bluff, a Master of Divinity from Palmer Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary.”

His pastoral experience included more than a seven-year stint with Upper Room Ministries in Nashville, Tennessee, as director of the spiritual formation and healing program.

“I have had the privilege of training pastors and laity on how to establish an international healing ministry in churches in our country and abroad, including Brazil, Chile, Ireland, Mexico, Cuba, Scotland and several African countries,” Penn said.

After about 25 years as an ordained minister, the energetic great-grandfather retired. He and his wife, the Rev. Gloria Penn, moved to Canton to be closer to family. The two have been married for more than 60 years. They had six children, 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. They are active members of Turner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Marietta.

So, how does this octogenarian relax? “I enjoy gardening, listening to jazz and playing tennis.” A few years ago, at the age of 79, he and a partner won doubles in a local tennis tournament.

Penn’s intense desire to help people remains with him. He and his wife are continuing their work with the healing ministry via podcasts, lectures and workshops/seminars, as well as writing and publishing books.

“I am remaining active in the ministry of Christ-teaching, preaching and healing. I have started a new ministry with a colleague in the ministry entitled ‘Live Zoom Conversations on Healing and Wholeness,’” said Penn, who is in the process of writing his 10th book. Although the word “retired” is sometimes used to describe his status in the ministry, the affable pastor continues to work hard to fulfill his childhood dream of providing healing to those in need. This healing is spiritual rather than physical, and he is a doctor not of medicine but of divinity.

John and Gloria Penn have been married more than 60 years and serve together in ministry.

Margaret Miller has been a resident of Cherokee County for the past decade. Her writing hobby led her to become a columnist for community and daily newspapers.

I enjoy gardening, listening to jazz and playing tennis. " "

Celebrations!

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com

May deadline is April 10. Word limit: 25. Please specify Around Canton.

Knightley Kerrington

Age 6 on April 16

Happiest birthday, my sweet Knightley!

I love you more than all of the words in the world!

Love always, Mommy and puppy Remington

Graham

Age 7 on April 14

Happy birthday, Graham!

We love you!

Mom, Dad, Luke and Lois Jean

Hunter Pan April 11

Happy birthday to our 7-year-old greatest joy! We love you to God and back.

Daddy, Mommy, Gam Gam, Uncle Frank and Ticklebug

Ashlyn Mahar and Bryce Schneider’s wedding will be at The Willows Farm in Marble Hill this month. We are excited for the two of you starting your new journey in life, and we love you very much!

Michael and Angela Mahar, and Stephan and Donna Schneider

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

Don’t Let Termites Eat You Out of House and Home

Three decades — that’s how long Canton Termite and Pest Control owner Tim McWhirter has been in the termite and pest control industry. During that time, he has gained valuable experience, completed ongoing education on the newest and best industry innovations, and built a family-owned company with excellent team members.

Tim has seen many economic shifts in his career, and has crucial advice for homeowners navigating today's housing market.

“In this time of rising interest rates and historically high home values, we are seeing many homeowners choosing to stay in their current homes longer, making home maintenance critical in preserving the value of their investment,” he said.

Canton Termite and Pest Control

From left, Brent Pickens, Jacob Baka , Dwayne Epps, Linda Palmer, Jennifer Baggett, Robin and Tim McWhirter, William Botts, Jonathan Gay, Nicholas Alday and Ed Sullivan.

Jacob Baka performs a termite inspection.

A REVOLUTIONARY TREATMENT

A variety of treatment options is available, from liquid products that kill and repel termites to solid bait products that attract termites to poisoned food sources. According to Tim, however, nothing on the market beats the Termidor HP Injection treatment.

“We have used a variety of treatment methods over the years. All are effective, but they have drawbacks that might make them less desirable for homeowners. Traditional liquid treatment requires less ongoing monitoring, much like the injection treatment, but the technicians must dig a trench around the home and possibly disrupt landscaping,” he said.

“Bait systems are less intrusive, but they must be planted in the soil around the house, which can disturb landscaping and must be monitored more often, which increases the annual cost.”

The Termidor Injection treatment bypasses these issues by using a precision injection tool to deposit liquid termiticide products deep into the soil, with essentially no disruption of the surrounding area. The onboard calibrated system calculates treatment volumes, making sure the perfect amount of product is used to protect your home, for up to 10 years.

“We are in the middle of termite swarm season right now, so termites are more active than normal,” Tim said. “I highly recommend homeowners consider scheduling a free estimate to ensure their home isn’t at risk.”

PREVENTION IS THE KEY

The name of the game with termites is prevention. Just as you get regular maintenance on your vehicle, your home needs ongoing inspections and preventive treatment to protect it from infestation. Start by having a licensed, reputable pest control company provide a reliable

treatment and an ongoing maintenance warranty to give you peace of mind.

A service agreement for treatment is called a termite bond, which provides three key protections:

1. Initial comprehensive home termite inspection.

2. Treatment solutions to protect your home from a termite infestation.

3. Ongoing inspections and monitoring services.

Homeowners who acquire a termite bond can ensure that signs of infestation are detected and addressed quickly and effectively.

MORE THAN CHANGING BATTERIES

Most of the time, home maintenance makes us think of simply replacing furnace filters and smoke alarm batteries. What often is overlooked is the damage that can be caused by the lowly termite. Termite damage often is severe. Homeowners in the U.S. spend around $5 billion each year

on repairs, with more than 600,000 homes suffering damage annually. Termites literally can eat you out of house and home.

“When you consider the cost of potential termite damage, repairs can be very expensive,” Tim said. “It’s easy to underestimate termites, which often are an unseen, destructive force as they work their way into your home from underground, hiding in your walls and floors as they feed on any wood-based materials, including framing, wallpaper, furniture, siding and even paintings.”

Termites can be an obstacle if you want to sell your home. Real estate transactions require a termite inspection letter for closing, which is obtained after a thorough inspection of your home by a licensed pest expert, to determine whether there are any signs of active termite infestation. If issues are discovered, the sale of your home can be jeopardized.

“It is better to take care of any problem now, than to wait until you have a buyer looking over your shoulder,” Tim said.

Pest control team members Jonathan Gay, Dwayne Epps and Nicholas Alday.

Rolling on

Opportunities Exist for Recreation and Service on the Etowah

BY LAINE KIRBY WOOD

Consider yourself lucky that you live in the Upper Etowah watershed. Not only is it biodiverse, it is beautiful. The Etowah is a great source of recreation for fishers, kayakers and tubers, and new launch locations soon are coming to Cherokee County. Additionally, both reservoirs in our watershed are great for paddling, fishing or picnicking.

Hickory Log Creek Reservoir

The Etowah supplies drinking water for the five counties it flows through, as well as a significant number of Cobb County residents, by way of the partnership between Canton’s Hickory Log Creek Reservoir and the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority. Water is pulled from the river close to the I-575 bridge at Exit 20 (the red brick building) and helps to fill the reservoir, to ensure there is adequate water during drought conditions. The reservoir is open to the public for fishing, kayaking and canoeing. No motorized vessels or swimming are allowed, making it safe for novices to paddle. It encompasses 411 acres at full pool, with 15 miles of shoreline, and it is surrounded by a 15-foot buffer. It holds 5.77 billion gallons of water and supplies 44 million gallons per day.

A day-use fee of $5 is collected onsite off Bluffs Parkway in Canton, or a $50 annual pass can be purchased at the permitting office in Canton City Hall, Room 219. www.cantonga.gov/ government/departments/reservoir.

Life jackets allow residents to enjoy water activities safely.

the River

Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir

Yellow Creek is the tributary that fills Hollis Q. Lathem Reservoir, near Ball Ground. This lake encompasses 334 acres and holds 3.5 billion gallons of water. It is open to the public for fishing and paddling, but no motorized vessels or swimming are allowed. A short 2-mile paddle takes you to where Yellow Creek enters the lake by way of a lovely waterfall. A day-use fee of $5 is collected on-site at Cowart Road, off Yellow Creek Road. Or, an annual pass of $50 can be purchased at the reservoir office. https://ccwsa.com/reservoir.

Launch Locations

Currently, you can access the Etowah River and Allatoona Lake at Fields Landing off Highway 20, or at the Knox Bridge Corps of Engineers boat ramp. You can access the Little River and Allatoona Lake at the boat ramp at Cherokee Mills on Bells Ferry Road, across from Little River Marina.

In the next two years, Cherokee County’s newest river access point will be at Long Swamp Creek on Highway 372, across from the McGraw Ford Wildlife Management Area. This park of approximately 20 acres will have a canoe/ kayak launch and an archery range.

Another exciting addition to the county park inventory is the property on Yellow Creek Road at the Etowah. This property encompasses more than 500 acres, and it still is in the planning stage, because of its environmental sensitivity. We are hoping it will have river access, too.

Floating, paddling, fishing and swimming are excellent ways to enjoy the Etowah, but remember always to wear a life jacket and obey posted notifications about water conditions. A great source of information is the new, user-friendly app for iOS and Android users: GeorgiaRiverNetwork. This app has current information on launches, conditions, distances between take-outs and local historical information on most Georgia rivers.

The Upper Etowah River

• Encompasses 610 square miles and 390,400 acres.

• Includes five counties –Lumpkin, Dawson, Forsyth, Pickens and Cherokee.

• Has more than 100 tributaries, including Shoal, Amicalola, Yellow, Setting Down, Conn, Long Swamp and Sharp Mountain Creeks.

• Begins near Dahlonega, runs 90 miles to Lake Allatoona and continues to Rome, to form the Coosa River.

• Is only a fraction of the Etowah Basin, which drains 1,858 square miles and more than 150 river miles.

• Features two reservoirs, with fishing and paddling access, open to the public.

• Is home to 77 native fish species. (The Etowah biologically is one of the richest river systems in the world!)

Get Involved!

• Join the Upper Etowah River Alliance (UERA): etowahriver.org.

• Attend UERA’s annual meeting, 6 p.m. April 20, at the Rock Barn in Canton. Tickets can be purchased on the website, under the Events tab.

• Participate in a cleanup event (etowahriver.org).

• Participate in a Keep Cherokee Beautiful event (cherokeega.com).

• Follow the Upper Etowah River Alliance on Facebook.

Laine Kirby Wood, Canton resident and the executive director of The Upper Etowah River Alliance, is a writer, adventurer, wildlife enthusiast and grandmother to seven.

Kayakers can paddle the Etowah River, the Hickory Log Creek and Hollis Q. Lathem reservoirs.

Put Your Paws to the Pavement

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Most of us would agree with actress Gilda Radner, who said, “I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role models for being alive.”

Sadly, in some parts of the world, dogs do not have this great esteem. The Street Dog Dash is a nonprofit that exists to support the success of local rescues in Cherokee County and surrounding

areas, and to put an end to the suffering of dogs in the Asian meat trade. The nonprofit’s annual 5K is set for April 29 at Etowah River Park in Canton.

“I founded Street Dog Dash 5K (SDD5K) in 2018 as a way to serve my local community and give back to the world,” Woodstock resident Haley Williams said. “I’m a strong believer in trying to leave the world a better place than you found it. Once I learned about the dog meat trade in Asia, something inside me broke, and I knew that I had to act. SDD5K was born out of my God-given love for animals, and a belief that we must be a voice for the less fortunate, and those who can’t speak for themselves.”

The SDD5K raises funds and awareness for the fight against the dog meat trade. Its nonprofit of choice is the Soi Dog Foundation, which has been running for more than 11 years and is committed to ending this barbaric business. Headquartered in Thailand, Soi Dog has been successful in ending the trade in its own country and getting restrictive laws passed in other Asian countries. Soi Dog works toward the enforcement of existing laws, educating the public about the health risks associated with this trade, and providing farmers with alternative ways to earn income. Progress is being made.

In Cherokee and surrounding

counties, SDD5K supports animal shelters, rescue groups and smaller organizations, such as Rescue Me Georgia.

Josh and Michelle Williams stepped into the role of directors of race operations beginning in fall 2021. Even though involvement in the SDD5K is recent, their passion for pups is not. Josh and Michelle met in 2014 at Brook Run Dog Park in Atlanta, where their three rescue dogs became best friends. They soon fell in love, married, brought everyone together as one big happy family, and moved to Canton.

“I discovered SDD5K after coordinating an outdoor community event for the company I worked for at the time,” Michelle said. “Since both Josh and I love the idea of supporting rescues and dogs in need, we also participated in the race. When the opportunity arose to take on more responsibility as race directors, we happily said yes to supporting our local communities and improving the lives of animals.”

SDD5K is a fun family event to get everyone moving. Everyone is welcome, including four-legged family members. Not a runner? No problem. You can walk the 3 miles with or without your pup. Here are a few recommendations from some of your metro Atlanta neighbors:

“The SDD5k is absolutely my

favorite race! It’s so much fun to see all the dogs (and their humans) enjoying the event,” Brooke Hopkins said.

“This (year) will be my third time participating in the SDD5K! It is a great event put on in our community for runners and fur friends alike. A great course and an even better cause. Cannot wait until April 29!” Kasi Winkles said.

Katie Nix said: “Participating in the SDD5K isn’t just about testing your own limits; it’s about pushing for a greater cause. I heard about the SDD5K in the Around Woodstock magazine, and knew it was a cause I wanted to support, no questions asked. When you lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement, you’re not only supporting the health and wellness of yourself, but you’re also making a difference for dogs in need and your local community. The joy of crossing that finish line is amplified by the knowledge that your efforts have contributed to something bigger than yourself, helping to create a better future for animals and people alike. I can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store for the SDD5K!”

Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.

To learn more or sign up for this year’s race, visit streetdogdash5k.org, email info@streetdogdash5k.org or scan the QR code to register. To stay up-to-date on race details, participate in contests and more, follow @streetdogdash5k on Facebook and Instagram.

Jaime Pinedo and Juniper.

CCSD’s Career Education Program Grows

BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

The Cherokee County School District’s career education program is soaring to new heights as it prepares students for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

The school district long has offered an outstanding career, technical and agricultural education (CTAE) program. And, over the past five years, it has taken important steps to improve.

A driving force in the improvement has been participation in the Cherokee County Workforce Collaborative, made up of business and industry, economic development, technical college and school leaders.

Through this collaboration, the school district has better aligned its programs with local employer needs, as well as opportunities for continuing education at technical colleges. A recent example has been the school district’s launch of the career pathway for unmanned aircraft systems and flight operations.

The flight program is one of two the school district offers at the Cherokee College & Career Academy (C3), which was established last school year with a pathway for cybersecurity. Career programs offered at C3, which is housed on the ACTIVE Academies campus in Canton, are open to all CCSD high school students who choose to leave their campus to come to C3 for electives. Bus transportation now is available at no charge for students who cannot drive themselves.

Another highlight of the collaboration is the development of the annual Skilled Professions Signing Day, which celebrates graduating seniors who are entering the skilled workforce. The collaboration also led to the establishment of the Georgia Be Pro Be Proud initiative. It brings a

mobile classroom to high schools and middle schools across Georgia, including in CCSD, to teach students about careers through hands-on activities.

CCSD now has 38 career pathway programs, offering high school students even more opportunities to explore careers, learn job skills and earn industry certifications.

In addition to the new programs offered at C3, the school district began offering Energy and Power: Generation, Transmission and Distribution at Cherokee High School this year, with the support of a $25,000 Workforce for Georgia grant, funded by Georgia Power and the Georgia Foundation for Public Education. Other recent program additions include two new agriculture career pathways at Creekview High School: agricultural mechanics/ electrical systems and veterinary science, which complement the popular equine science program.

This year, to raise awareness about its career education programs, the school district started a new campaign. Every

week, a different career pathway is highlighted on CCSD’s website and social media. The pathway profile posts share information about each program, including potential industry certifications, extracurricular opportunities, jobs that the courses prepare students for, salary ranges and local and area employers. The pathways profiled so far are posted at www. cherokeek12.net/content2/careers.

As part of the campaign, CCSD also published its first course catalog focused solely on career pathways. The Focus on the Future guide was distributed to all eighthgraders, to use with their parents as they review elective options for high school. The guide also is posted on the CCSD website, so all students and parents can review it: www.cherokeek12.net/news/ctaehandbook-2022.

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.

Creekview High School career pathways teacher Wyatt Wilke leads students, from left, Jake Turner, Emmy Sowers and Ryan Bearden in an agriculture mechanics systems class.

School News

Meteorologist Visits R.M. Moore STEM Academy

R.M. Moore first- and fourth-grade students enjoyed a visit with Fox 5 meteorologist Ryan Beesley recently. Beesley talked about weather and the importance of STEM in education and how it impacts his job every day. Students asked great questions and were excited to see the Storm Chaser Truck.

Breana Miller Named Chatt Tech’s Top Student

Breana Miller, a Chattahoochee Tech student based at the Canton campus in the occupational therapy assistant program, and mathematics instructor Adrienne Baldwin were presented with top student and instructor awards for 2023. Miller received a $500 cash award and advanced to a competition with the winning students from Georgia’s other technical colleges. State winners will be announced this month.

Indian Knoll Earns First Place at Reading Bowl

Cherokee County School District’s 2023 Reading Bowl, including elementary and middle school divisions, recently was held at E.T. Booth Middle School.

Indian Knoll Elementary School earned first place in the elementary school competition, with Clark Creek placing second and Arnold Mill finishing third. E.T. Booth Middle School, for the second consecutive year, won first place in the middle school division. Woodstock earned second and Creekland placed third.

Students Place at Business Competition

Senior Andy Moncada and juniors Olivia Canada and Genesee Wentworth recently represented Creekview at the DECA (formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America) Georgia State Career Development Conference, held in Atlanta. Canada placed first in the job interview skills category, and the team of Moncada and Wentworth placed fifth in the business growth plan contest. All three students will advance to the DECA International Career Development Conference in Orlando this month.

Breana Miller, left, and Adrienne Baldwin with Chattahoochee Tech President Ron Newcomb.

Coaches Allison Eubanks, Rebecca McArthur, Kim Brown and Jennifer Lewis with Indian Knoll team members Thy Tran, Elizabeth Krueger, Maddy Rice, Charlotte Waites, Ella Grace Beard, Easton Smith, Malachi Holt and Lillan Boggs.

Pickleball

In 2021, we wrote on the emerging popularity of pickleball, the game with the funny name (http://bit. ly/3ImGCIR). At that time, when we mentioned pickleball, many people we met around town would ask, “What’s that?” Now, when we mention it, we’re asked, “Where do you play?”

To best explain the growth of this sport since our last report, we sourced data from the Association of Pickleball Professionals. In January, the organization reported to CNBC that more than 36.5 million people played pickleball from August 2021 to August 2022. Earlier data estimated participation in the sport at 5 million players in 2021. We reached out to prominent members of the pickleball community in and around Woodstock to hear about their observations of the growth of the sport.

Acworth resident Antonio Pullen, cofounder of the instructional organization Dinkin’ and Bangin’, said pickleball has become more than just a sport; it has become a community-building activity that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together. Its inclusive nature, easy-to-learn rules and fast-paced gameplay make it the perfect sport for socializing, exercise and friendly competition.

One of USA Pickleball’s Cherokee County ambassadors, coach Jerry Fronger, has been working with Woodstock Parks & Recreation as the department grows the pickleball programs at Dupree Park. Jerry also is working with ALTA (Atlanta Tennis Association), which has announced its inaugural pickleball season, coming this summer. Jerry believes organized league play will be very popular with the pickleball community.

Yvonne Dewey, a coach who has been instrumental in organizing junior clinics in the community, loves the family aspect of the sport. Yvonne and her husband, Mike, have two boys, and they love playing together. Whether on vacation or in Woodstock, she is seeing more and more family pickleball being played.

BY MIKE WALLS AND LIN MUMMERT

We asked coach Wendy Brown, who switched to pickleball six years ago after playing tennis for 30 years, what she sees as the future of the sport. Speaking as an instructor and competitive tournament player, she thinks pickleball will retain its recreational element. But, with it now being a professional sport, the future is the

Photo courtesy of Pickleheads.

Olympics! The process for bringing a new sport to the Olympics is quite lengthy … maybe 2030?

Nationwide, pickleball is attracting star athletes, ranging from LeBron James to Patrick Mahomes, who have invested in the purchase of Major League Pickle (MLP) professional teams. Twelve MLP teams began the 2023 season with big-name sponsors and prime-time media coverage. As pickleball commentator Brandon Mackie said, “MLP stands to increase (the) popularity (of pickleball), and launch the sport to unprecedented heights.” And, we agree. Also launching this year is the National Pickleball League (NPL), which will feature six teams from across the country, all with players over the age of 50. We just love pickleball. It truly is a great community-building sport, and we hope to see you on the courts around Woodstock, enjoying pickleball as much as we do. Pickleball? Let’s go!

Learn More:

http://bit.ly/3SnyMTM

http://bit.ly/3ZgUhb7

http://bit.ly/3IsNTH6

http://bit.ly/3kqLip

Places to Play

In addition to the pickleball courts at parks around Cherokee County, many neighborhoods have courts and programs. For more information about tournaments and places to play, join the Woodstock/Cherokee Pickleball Facebook group or visit www.pickleheads.com.

Outdoor Courts

Pickleball courts are available for free play on a first-come, first-served basis. Most courts also can be reserved, for a fee.

Cherokee Veterans Park in Canton has two permanent pickleball courts, as well as four courts lined and shared on tennis courts. They can be reserved through the Cherokee Tennis Center at 770-592-4582 or reservemycourt.com.

Kenney Askew Park in Canton has six designated courts. To reserve, contact the Cherokee Tennis Center. For open-play times, visit http://bit.ly/3kO3Q2Q.

Dupree Park in Woodstock has six courts. Woodstock residents can reserve a court at http://bit.ly/3JaQ83b. Visit http://bit.ly/3KVsh9g for Woodstock Parks and Recereation’s Discovering Pickleball, Practice and Play, and league programs. There are two permanent courts at 200 Civic Drive in Ball Ground. To reserve a court, visit http://bit.ly/3SQychx. For openplay times, visit https://bit.ly/41LiwQE.

Indoor Courts

The L.B. “Buzz” Recreation Center at Cherokee Veterans Park has open-play pickleball times in the gym. Check the calendar at http://bit.ly/3SL4I4A.

The YMCA in Canton is bustling with indoor play at designated times during the week: https://cantonfamilyymca. org/pickleball.

Future Courts

Possible additions to Cherokee Veterans Park include additional tennis and pickleball courts, a baseball/softball complex and a large community pavilion (http://bit.ly/3ZkukYI).

Pickleball courts also have been proposed in the NE Cherokee County Parks Plan, specifically in E.W. & Edith Cochran Park in Free Home. The plan was approved in May 2022 and is estimated to be fully completed by 2032 (http://bit.ly/3ZVTOf1).

Antonio Pullen teaches kids to play pickleball.

Save the Date!

The BridgeMill Sixes Service League (BSSL) second annual Pickleball Charity Event begins at 8 a.m. April 29 at BridgeMill Tennis Club. Registration is $25 per person. Proceeds benefit BSSL-sponsored charities and Cherokee County Homeless Veterans. Register by April 22 at www.bsl.org. Rain date is May 27.

Mike Walls and Lin Mummert are trying to promote a good, positive outdoor experience for the community. Visit the Pickle Brookshire page on Facebook.

9

Alternatives to Using English Ivy as a Ground Cover

BY CAROLYN PUCKETT

English ivy, although a nostalgic ground cover, is invasive. If you missed last month’s article, read it at https:// aroundcantonmagazine.com/archives. There are many alternatives to English ivy as a ground cover for shade, and also as a climbing vine. Here are nine native alternatives:

1. Creeping phlox is a spreading perennial that is native to the eastern U.S. It will form a dense cover under quite shady conditions. It is only about 6 inches high, with flowers extending up another 6 inches in the spring. Cultivars are available with ¾-inch flowers of blue, white, pink, lilac or purple. You can check out the performance of woodland phlox cultivars at https://mtcubacenter.org/trials/phlox-for-shade.

2. Foam flower is a semi-evergreen, low-growing, native woodland plant that has ivy-shaped leaves. In some cultivars, the leaves are highlighted with reddish veining. In addition, bottlebrush-shaped racemes of pinkish white flowers bloom in the spring. Foam flower is available in both clumping and spreading cultivars.

3. Coral bells is another low-growing native woodland plant with interesting leaves. There are many cultivars available, with colored leaves of yellow, peach, red, purple or bronze. Because of Georgia’s heat and humidity, we recommend you purchase cultivars bred with the eastern native species Heuchera villosa or Heuchera americana. Coral bells’ flowers stand high over the foliage. In many of the cultivars with colored foliage, the flowers are not especially showy. Other cultivars are bred for heavy displays of rose-colored flowers.

4. Green-and-gold or golden star is a spreading native plant of about 6 inches in height that displays gold, daisy-like flowers in the spring. Sometimes, the flowers recur sporadically. It grows well in the shade, but will tolerate some sun if it gets enough water. It can be used on a bank to stop erosion.

5. Allegheny spurge is a native form of pachysandra that is not aggressive like the more commonly sold Japanese pachysandra. Allegheny spurge’s patterned, semievergreen foliage grows 6 inches tall. Clumps may spread to create a 3- to 4-foot patch. Fragrant white bottlebrush flowers appear each spring before the new leaves emerge.

6. Another native ground cover for shade is partridgeberry , an evergreen with white flowers in the spring and red fruit in the fall. It is about 1-inch tall, with trailing stems that root at the nodes to create dense mats. The cultivar, Danny, is a particularly vigorous selection. Partridgeberry will tolerate light foot traffic.

There also are grass-like ground covers for shade. Try something other than the ubiquitous monkey grass or mondo grass.

7. Bristle-leaf or ivory sedge is a native plant that grows 6 to 12 inches high and spreads slowly by rhizomes (continuously growing underground stems). It has wiry leaves growing in a spherical clump. While it prefers an evenly moist soil, it becomes drought-tolerant, once established.

8. Another grass-like plant, Pennsylvania sedge, is indigenous to dry woodlands of eastern and central North America. It has soft arching blades growing about 6 inches tall. Spreading by rhizomes, it thrives in shade and tolerates drought.

9. There is a native plant that also sometimes goes by the name climbing hydrangea. Also known as woodvamp, it can grow 20 to 60 feet, with the dark-green leaves mixing with numerous small, white flowers that attract bees and butterflies in early to midsummer. Only mature, vertical-growing stems produce the new growth that creates the flowering stems.

With all the wonderful alternatives, there is no reason to succumb to the temptation to plant English ivy as a ground cover. You will be doing yourself and your neighbors a big favor if you go the less-traveled route to cover your shady areas in greenery.

Dig Deeper:

• www.gaeppc.org/alternatives

• http://bit.ly/3la3aEt

• https://bit.ly/3X2em3s

Foam flower’s pinkish-white flowers bloom in the spring.

Carolyn Puckett is a Cherokee County master gardener and a master naturalist.

Woodstock Mom to Shoot 1,000 Free Throws

Free Throws for Logan, an event benefiting the Mowat-Wilson Syndrome (MWS) Foundation and Woodstock Middle School’s Special Education Department, will be held April 15 in the school’s gym. Beginning at 10 a.m., Woodstock resident Jackie Arnold will try to make 1,000 free throws in five hours, to raise awareness and funds for MWS, a very rare genetic disorder that her son, Logan, was diagnosed with in 2010.

MWS affects many parts of the body. Most Mowat-Wilson children are nonverbal, and need intense medical attention and personal care. MWS was not defined until 1998, and the physical, behavioral and developmental issues associated with the syndrome still are being discovered.

The MWS Foundation works to enhance the lives of people affected by the syndrome, by providing

support, raising awareness and supporting research and education. Learn more at https://mowatwilson.org.

The idea for Free Throws for Logan was hatched around three years ago (and was delayed due to COVID-19), when Arnold was looking for a way to put her unique free throw-shooting skills to use. She shoots at about an 88% clip, which beats 90% of college and pro basketball players.

Logan is 13 years old and will attend Woodstock Middle in the fall. Some of his favorite things to do are playing soccer and baseball, and watching lacrosse and hockey. Logan also loves basketball, especially watching his mom swish shot after shot.

Just over two decades ago, Arnold

was a varsity basketball player at Roswell High School, where she was a 90% free throw shooter. To prepare for this month’s event, the 40-yearold has been practicing two to three times a week at Pure Shot Basketball in Woodstock. In early March, she was shooting at about 85%, but she is confident she can raise that percentage before April 15.

The community is invited to cheer on Arnold as she makes about 200 shots per hour. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be an opportunity for attendees to show off their shooting skills by competing in the Beat the Mom free throw contest. Then, between 2 and 3 p.m., Arnold should make her 1,000th free throw. For more details about the free event, and how to donate, visit https://bit.ly/3mlYyvF.

Jackie Arnold practicing to get her shooting percentage close to the 90% it was in high school.

Logan with his mom, Jackie.

Every year, more than 2,800 kids are treated in emergency rooms after swallowing button batteries; that’s one child every three hours. The number of serious injuries or deaths has increased ninefold in the past decade. Canton resident Peggy Byess shares her story to educate families, parents, caregivers and grandparents about the dangers of button-battery ingestion.

“In February, Kenzi, our 3-year-old and youngest of seven, began having a raspy voice. I assumed it was due to her recent case of strep throat. Aside from that, she seemed perfectly normal and was eating, drinking and playing normally. Then, Kenzi became congested in her chest. The next night, I could hear high-pitched noises in her sleep, and her chest started to compress when she would breathe. I immediately drove her to urgent care in Canton. As we were in line to check-in, they could hear Kenzi’s labored breathing. (They immediately) sent someone out to check her oxygen levels, and our nightmare began.

“Kenzi and I were rushed through triage. She was given a breathing treatment and a chest X-ray. Fearing pneumonia or respiratory syncytial virus, I wasn’t prepared for what they told me. The doctor entered the room and said that an ambulance was en route. Kenzi had a quarter-sized object lodged in her trachea, and we had to be rushed to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta — Egleston Hospital, the only Level 1 trauma hospital for children. I had no idea when or what she had swallowed.

“Upon arrival at Egleston, things moved quickly. Doctors explained that they must immediately remove the lodged object, and they would attempt to retrieve it the way it went down. By the time my husband arrived, Kenzi was already in surgery. After two hours, surgeons identified the object as a button battery, but her esophagus was too swollen to remove it the easy way. They pushed the battery into her stomach and called in another surgical team to remove it. An hour or more went by, and the surgeons informed us they had successfully removed the battery and a penny that was stuck to it. The surgeon said that the penny is probably the only thing that saved her life because, instead of burning through her esophagus, the penny took the brunt of the damage.

“The next time we saw our baby girl, she was intubated and under heavy sedation. We remained at Egleston for nearly two weeks, (Kenzi) on a feeding tube allowing her esophagus to heal. Gastrointestinal specialists will continue to monitor things carefully, as scar tissue could form and create more issues down the road.

“We learned that the battery Kenzi swallowed came from a musical birthday card. A button battery can burn a hole through the esophagus within two hours of ingestion. The doctors don’t know the long-term effects, and we are praying they are minimal.

Overall, we are thankful to still have our baby girl with us.”

During this family emergency, Peggy did not leave her daughter while her husband juggled work and cared for their other six children. Now, he works 12-hour days six days a week. Peggy stays home and home-schools her children. “My salary is less than the cost of child care. Our last six months have been some of the roughest,” Peggy said. “I lost my mom to cancer, my son was diagnosed with ADHD, our HVAC unit stopped working, forcing us to heat our home with our woodburning stove all winter. And, now, this. It is so overwhelming as the medical bills are beginning to come in. I just need the universe to let me take a breath before adding more.”

A GoFundMe has been set up in support of the Byess family, to help them get through this difficult season. Everyday Angels would like to help them, as well as remind our readers of the dangers of button batteries. We will accept donations or grocery cards to encourage this sweet family.

Kenzi Byess paints a drawstring bag at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta — Egleston Hospital.

Cherokee Photography

Digital Projection

Color Print

First Place: Eillene Kirk “The Roundhouse”

Second Place: Russ Miller “Shattered Reflections”

First Place: Bill Bradford “Going Places”

Photography Club

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

First Place: Chastain Kendrick “Don’t Call Me”

Dual Enrollment: Double Credit, Half the Time

BY MICHELLE BUSH

High school students can get a jump-start on their college education and career training through Georgia’s dual-enrollment program, which gives them the opportunity to maximize their education by taking courses that earn college credit and high school credit at the same time. They can enroll as a dualenrollment student on a part-time or full-time basis and take courses on a college campus. Some of the college-level courses also might be available online, on the high school campus or at local college and career academies.

Students enrolled in the program can choose from a wide variety of courses. Among them are core academic college-freshman courses in English, math, science, social sciences and world languages that transfer easily from technical colleges to four-year University System of Georgia institutions. Students also can choose career, technical and agricultural education courses that align to a Georgia Department of Education career cluster and pathway.

Another great thing about the program is state dual-enrollment funds cover the cost of tuition for the first 30 credit hours. The dualenrollment course directory (https://bit.ly/3Zz26K0) provides a list of all approved courses at participating post-secondary institutions that are eligible for dual-enrollment funding.

Dual-enrollment students can thrive from being a welcome part of a college community and experiencing the state-of-the-

art college labs and classrooms. The program is proven to enhance student engagement and improve graduation rates for high school students. It also contributes to preparing a skilled workforce for Georgia by increasing career and post-secondary educational opportunities for students.

Students, parents and school counselors should decide together whether dual enrollment is a good fit. To participate in the program, high school students must apply for admission to a participating college or university. After applying, students can complete the dual-enrollment funding application, which is available on the gafutures.org website. A student’s individual high school or school system also might have its own deadlines for the dual-enrollment process. Students who are interested in the program are encouraged to talk with their high school counselor as early as possible in order to meet all application deadlines.

Peel Back the Layers, Rejoice in Resurrection

BY CLIFF PACE

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, layers are “a quantity, usually one of several covering a surface or a body.” When I think about Easter, I think about the layers of “stuff” that replace this essential event — Jesus’ Resurrection. It deserves serious consideration, not just one time a year, but every day.

I am not opposed to Easter bunnies, eggs, flowers, cards or chocolate. I actually am quite fond of them, especially the Reese’s peanut butter eggs. But the significance and reality of the Resurrection could change our lives. This miracle changed the lives of the men and women who spent three years listening to and watching Jesus.

Imagine the morning of the Resurrection. From the perspective of the sun rising and the birds singing, it was like any other morning. From the “layer” of those who had witnessed the Crucifixion days before, many continued their daily routines and preoccupations of work and family, forgetting the gruesome scenes from that moment.

But, for the disciples, their friend and leader was gone. Those men and women experienced intense grief after watching Jesus die. They mourned as they buried his body. They were hopeless because of his absence. Some thought they had let him down, because they didn’t fight back. One denied knowing him when

accused of being with him. They felt grief and hopelessness, not knowing what they would do next, or if they would be the next to die because of Jesus’ teachings.

But God had a plan. God always had a plan for his son. That Resurrection morning, the disciples found a stone that had been rolled away from the door — not so Jesus could come out, but so the disciples could go in. They found an empty grave, neatly collapsed grave clothes and no sign of Jesus. The Bible records that they saw this and believed. It all began to make sense — the teachings, the Crucifixion, the empty grave. He was who he said he was! He did what he said he would do! Joy replaced their grief; hope replaced their despair.

Remember this: Just as God always had a plan for his son, he has a plan for you. So peel back the layers, and take a fresh look at the Resurrection today and every day.

Michelle Bush is director of student outreach and recruitment at Chattahoochee Technical College. The 22-year employee works with school counselors on behalf of students entering the college.

Cliff Pace is the lead pastor of Canton First Baptist, 1 Mission Point, Canton, GA 30114. www.cantonfirstbaptist.org.

Rob’s Rescues

This month, I interviewed Diviya Roney, who is in charge of the Furkids Community Cat program. Headquartered in Cumming, Furkids is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization that operates the largest cage-free, no-kill shelter in the Southeast for rescued cats, as well as Sadie’s Place, a no-kill shelter for dogs. If you missed my interview with Samantha Shelton, founder of Furkids, last month, visit https:// aroundcantonmagazine.com/archives.

Describe Furkids’ cat program.

The Community Cat program was launched on July 1, 2022. We focus on spay and neuter and education. We also provide resources and support to the community.

If someone has cats living in their neighborhood, what should they do?

This dog’s name is Boss. He was adopted as a puppy from the Cobb County shelter. He is a 2-year-old small terrier. He is good with kids and other animals. He was turned in because his family was moving to another state and could not afford to take him.

They can email communitycats@ furkids.org. We will provide instructions and rent out traps. Feeders are the best trappers, as they know the cats’ schedules. If you can’t physically do it, we can send our volunteers to help. Contact us first to set up a plan. Please don’t trap before a plan is in place to TNR (trap, neuter, return) the cat.

What does TNR involve?

The rule is that if you are feeding outdoor cats, you must TNR them. The only way to reduce the overwhelming cat population is TNR. The cats must be returned to their colony after spay/ neuter. We train people on how to run their colony, including deworming and providing shelter.

How many cats have you helped?

We already are in 22 counties in Georgia, and we have helped more than 800 cats. We aim to help 100 cats each month. We don’t care where you live in Georgia; we will support you.

Has it been easy stepping into this role at Furkids?

Furkids has made the transition easy. This (Community Cats program) is replicating Frida’s on a much larger scale. I am still running both. The name recognition has been helpful. (Frida’s Foundation is a volunteer-based 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization founded in Clayton County, committed to eliminating euthanasia of healthy pets and community cats through high-volume spay/neuter, community outreach, collaboration and advocacy. Learn more at www.fridasfoundation.com.)

How can the community help?

This dog’s name is Shadow. He was a cruelty case in his old home, but is a staff favorite in the shelter. He was only 24 pounds when he came to the shelter. Now, he weighs 31 pounds. He is friendly, playful and affectionate. One of the staff members wrote a message on his cage: “I have never met a dog more deserving of love. Everyone adores him!”

What story do you like to tell?

Frida’s Foundation is a story that is close to my heart. The reason I founded Frida’s was due to a human being getting no support and consequently committing suicide. Frida’s Foundation and Furkids’ mission is to help people struggling and lifting them up. Animals help people tremendously and keep them going. We are here to support people, keep animals in their homes or colonies intact.

Donations are a huge help to cover spay and neuter. We need traps, too, if you want to donate those. We also need food for our food pantry. We are supporting a lot of people with new colonies, and a lot of people who help community cats need ongoing help with their colonies. We provide medical assistance and food for their cats. Volunteers and trapping volunteers also are needed. And, just getting the word out about our mission and how we can assist is helpful. We help struggling families and are not county-specific.

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

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

Rob at the Furkids center.

2023 Guns & Hoses 5K

Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services’ Team Hoses reclaimed the trophy from Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office’s Team Guns at the 17th annual Guns & Hoses 5K race at Hobgood Park. The agencies compete each year, raising money for local charities. When registering, runners select the team they want to represent, and a portion of their fee goes toward the team’s charity. Whichever team has more participants wins. This year, the total amount raised was $7,236. The fire department raised $4,476 for Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, and the sheriff’s office raised $2,760 for Frank Reynolds Charities. For more details, visit www.playcherokee.org/193/ Guns-Hoses-5K.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS

Just over 600 racers participated in this year’s event, including 40 boys from Goshen Valley Boys Ranch.

From left, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Brian Venable, Deputy Franklin Hicks and Cpl. Courey Carter show support for Team Guns.

From left, Goshen Valley’s Evan Ingram celebrates Team Hoses’ win with Fire Chief Eddie Robinson and Sheriff Frank Reynolds.

Fostering Change: Post-Adoption Support

BY CHARLICE BYRD

Two of the most commonly reported deficiencies in adopting a child from foster care are the lack of transparency from the Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) to the adoptive family and the shortage of post-adoption support. It often is difficult for the adoptive family to know how to help without knowing what the child has been exposed to.

Often, childhood issues begin to manifest in a child when he or she begins school. If the child already is school-aged, it is important to ensure that any learning limitations are identified, by communicating often with school officials. If the child has not started school, being attentive and proactive to how a child is adjusting to school is critical.

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day often present unique challenges when children are unsure of how to respond to assignments or discussions without peer criticism. Other academic assignments that require children to write and present family dynamics can result in anxiety. Adoptive parents should communicate with school officials when these assignments are required, to ensure the child has ample support from home. It’s important to be familiar with mandatory reading assignments and use it as a time to have conversations with children.

Adoptive families are allowed to review DFCS files prior to adoption. This is a good time to read and understand what life was like prior to adoption. Look for any diagnosis that has been

identified, and ask for a copy of documents that might help get support services quickly, such as an individualized education program (IEP) or 504 plan.

Participating in social circles is a great way to meet other families who have adopted and build a strong network of friends and family who can provide the necessary support along the way. Often, families adopt and don’t realize that trauma from prior years might surface due to an unknown trigger. Pay attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, and ensure that the child has the opportunity to talk without judgment about feelings and expectations. Children can feel disloyal to their birth parents, post-adoption. Knowing this, and allowing children to talk about their prior experiences, gives them a path to healing.

Adoption is a wonderful way to give children in foster care a forever home. Be aware that challenges along the way can be minimized with open communication, a strong support system and an understanding that healing takes time.

The Newest Sport Around the Neighborhood

BY KELLEY ARCHER

According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball playership has increased 158.6% in the past three years. The sport is a cross between tennis, badminton and table tennis, and can be played as singles or doubles. Therefore, many master-planned communities, neighborhoods and clubs have added pickleball to their community plans, seeing large numbers of residents and members engage in and enjoy the sport. People of all ages tend to play pickleball more often because of the accessibility and ease of the sport — and the lively social environment it can provide.

As we swing into spring and get outside again, here are four reasons pickleball is beneficial to people and communities around Canton:

1. The sport can help you make new friends, whether you play single or doubles. Pickleball is a social sport and a leisure activity that can add variety to your typical routine. It brings people together to establish new and lasting friendships through a common interest.

2. Pickleball improves balance and agility with the benefit of regular exercise, which often reduces your risk of heart attack and chronic diseases, tones muscles and increases stamina. It also allows players to enjoy healthy competition.

3. The sport can drive connections across generations and genders, giving players the chance to mix and mingle with family, new and old friends, or neighbors. Pickleball is nearly equally enjoyed by men and women, with 53% of players being male and 47% being female.

4. The rules of the game are a mix of badminton, tennis and table tennis, making it an easy sport to pick up, since some rules are familiar. This is important, because learning the sport isn’t as intimidating, and you can have fun starting with your first match.

Since August 2021, Great Sky has added four pickleball courts to its amenity complex. For more places to play around Canton, flip to Pages 36-37.

Kelley Archer is the marketing director for Great Sky in Canton.

Rep. Charlice Byrd represents Georgia House District 20. If you have any feedback, call 404-557-2218, email charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov or engage on Facebook.

The Importance of Regular STD Testing

BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are on the rise in the United States at an alarming rate, particularly among women ages 15-24. This age group accounts for 58% of STDs in Georgia. Not only has the infection rate of STDs increased, but our state has climbed to No. 3 in the country, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC tracked gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV and chlamydia. Of particular concern in Georgia is the increase in gonorrhea and syphilis, both of which can be dangerous if left untreated. And, chlamydia can result in infertility.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and STDs are being spread because people unknowingly have STDs while they have unprotected sex. Most cases of syphilis and gonorrhea have no symptoms and only are found during routine testing. This could be the reason behind the surge of these types of STDs. “Other factors for the rise are less frequent testing, and the stigmas involved with testing and treatment,” said Alexander Millman of the Georgia Department of Public Health.

Testing for STIs and STDs is one of the most important things people can do to protect their health, according to the CDC. It’s critical that anyone who is sexually active get regularly tested. The best time to get tested is one month after having sexual relations with a new partner.

Women suffer the consequences of sex far more than men, resulting in unintended pregnancy, sexual infections, infertility and even cancer. Sometimes, younger women may feel pressured to have sex before they are mature enough. And, sometimes, they just want to do it without thinking of all the potential consequences.

Young women often are uncomfortable talking about sex, so they may feel too embarrassed to get tested or seek treatment. Many STDs show no symptoms, and, if they do, they might not occur for a long period of time. During this time, an STD can be spread to multiple partners without the person even knowing it, and the cycle continues.

Everyone who is sexually active needs to get regularly tested, especially before he or she is with a new partner. Women of all ages need to be empowered to take control of their health. If you are sexually active, talk with your OBGYN about regular STD testing.

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has seven OB-GYNs and five advanced practice providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.

Adventures Begin at Your Local Library

BY SARAH CHILDERS

April is an exciting time for the Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS), and we are welcoming the community into the new season with spring-themed events and programs. No matter your age or interests, SRLS has something for everyone, as we trade in our sweaters for short sleeves and sneakers for sandals. This month’s programming kicks off April 3 with a Dragonfly Storytime with Cherokee County Water and Sewer Authority at J. B. Owens Park, and a Farm Bureau Storytime about pollinators in your garden at Rose Creek Public Library. Interested in learning about bees and bee-friendly plants? Come to our Bee Jamboree at the Ball Ground Public Library on April 6. For adults interested in learning about seeds’ dormancy, proper storage and germination, look no further than Seeds With a Master Gardener at R.T. Jones Memorial Library on April 12. More programs can be found at www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org. We’re excited to spring into the library with you!

In honor of National Library Week, April 23-29, SRLS will offer a fine forgiveness program. During this week only, visit any of our libraries, and SRLS will forgive your past and present fines up to $15 per library card. To participate, you must contact your local branch during National Library Week. Notify a staff member that you wish to take advantage of fine forgiveness, and they will waive up to $15 from your account.

As the weather becomes warmer and the skies sunnier, we’re all looking forward to beginning our next adventure. Start your next adventure by checking out a ParkPass kit! The kit includes two free admissions or parking to more than 60 state parks and historic locations of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. This includes Amicalola Falls, Cloudland Canyon,

Etowah Indian Mounds and more. The pass may be checked out only once every four months per family and can be used only once per day, per site, per family. Visit our website for more information about the ParkPass kit.

No matter the adventure you choose, SRLS is here to help you on your journey. Whether you’re a longtime card holder, a new card holder or you haven’t thought about the library until now, it is our privilege to serve you. We’re proud to be your dynamic destination for discovery!

Sarah Childers is the marketing manager of the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

Patrons gather to work on different crafts during the first meeting of the Crafters’ Club at R.T. Jones Memorial Library.

What Tools Does Your Dentist Use?

BY SCOTT V. MERRITT, DMD

Have you ever wondered about the equipment used during your oral hygiene appointment? Your dental provider uses tools to view the inside of your mouth and perform necessary cleanings and exams. Dentists and dental hygienists use specialized instruments during professional cleanings, not only to keep your smile bright, but also to protect your well-being.

Here are the purposes of six commonly used tools:

1. Dental X-rays are an important tool, which provide dentists with a detailed view of what’s happening in the mouth. They also can uncover problems that cannot easily be seen in a regular exam. They detect oral health issues, such as cavities and gum disease.

2. Handheld mirrors , also known as mouth mirrors, are used to evaluate teeth at multiple angles. This

4. Dental probes are used to explore the surfaces of your teeth and measure pocket depths around a tooth. This is essential to diagnosing periodontal disease.

5. Suction devices remove saliva, debris and water from your mouth. This eliminates the need for you to spit over a sink, and gives your dental care team a dry surface to work with.

6. Polishers are used at the end of your cleaning, to smooth and polish your teeth, making them sparkly and bright.

Depending on the dental treatment plan discussed, your dentist or dental hygienist could use a different set of tools or devices to perform procedures. If you have questions during your appointment, make sure to ask! Your dental professional will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have, to ensure you have a comfortable and positive dental experience.

We are a specialty eye care group comprised of 26 expert physicians providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care across Woodstock Our services range from medical management to complex surgical care for conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, corneal disease and retinal disease.

Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and

Around & About

APRIL

Blankets Creek Trail Run

April 1, 8-10 a.m., 2261 Sixes Road, Canton

A portion of the proceeds from the 5and 9-mile races will benefit SORBA Woodstock, for the continued maintenance of the Blankets Creek and Olde Rope Mill Park trails. http://mountaingoatadventures.com/ blanketsrun

Community Easter Egg Hunt

April 8, 10 a.m., 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock

Little River Methodist Church’s annual egg hunt is a free event for children in pre-K through fifth grade. There will be refreshments and fun for all.

Easter Sunday Worship

April 9; 6:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.; 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock

Join Timothy Lutheran Church for Easter worship services, with Holy Communion. For information about Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services, visit tlcwoodstock.org

Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast

April 9, 9:45 a.m., 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock

Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt

April 9, 10 a.m., Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater, Woodstock Sojourn Woodstock is holding an outdoor Easter service. There will be Easter portraits before the service and an egg hunt after. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. For weather updates, visit www.sojournwoodstock.com.

Imagine Rotary Gala

April 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Rootstock Rotary Club of Woodstock’s fundraising gala is an evening of delicious food, global wine, jazz music and community fellowship.

https://bit.ly/3ih3r7G

Peace, Love and Recycle

April 15, 7 a.m.-noon, 2525 Ridge Road, Canton

City residents can recycle electronics, tires, paint and more. www.cantonga.gov/events

UERA Membership Meeting

April 20, 6 p.m., Rock Barn, Canton

Tickets to the Upper Etowah River Alliance Annual Membership Meeting are available at etwoahriver.org.

Earth Day Recycling Event

April 21, 1-4 p.m., 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton

For a list of accepted items, visit https://cherokeechamber.com.

Woodstock Farm Fresh Market

April 22, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Saturdays through Dec. 30 Market Street downtown. www.visitwoodstockga.com

Easter at Revolution

April 6, 8, 9

For gathering times and locations, visit www.revolution.church/easter.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church will hold festivities between the Easter worship services at 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Beginning April 2, there also will be special services for Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. For service times, visit gslutheran.org.

Citywide Yard Sale and Recycling Event

April 22, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Woodstock

Watch for details on this year’s Greenstock Day recycling event and citywide yard sale at https://woodstock.recdesk.com.

MAY

Community Yard Sale

May 6, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Little River Methodist Church, Woodstock

Food will be available for purchase, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., supporting church missions.

Makers Market and Family

Fun Day

May 6, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 208 Moose Loop Road, Canton

Shop more than 30 local vendors. There will be treats, talented artists, a kids zone and more. www.popinshopcrafts.com

Rock for a Reason

May 6, 6-11:30 p.m., Delta Flight Museum, Atlanta

Benefiting the Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, the black-tie event will have live and silent auctions, a five-star buffet, open bar and more. https://rockforareason.org

CMTA Awards Ceremony

May 7, 3 p.m., Falany Performing Arts Center, Waleska

Student scholarship winners will perform at the Cherokee Music Teachers Association event, followed by guest artist Jerico Vasquez of Shorter University. This event is free and open to the public. For details, email linda@lokey.net.

Charity Golf Tournament

May 12, 7 a.m., Fairways of Canton

The third annual Every Link Matters tournament begins with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Registration opens at 7 a.m. https://birdease.com/ everylinkmatters

Reinhardt Bluegrass Festival

May 12-13, 5:30-9 p.m. Friday and noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Waleska

Visit Reinhardt University’s Funk Heritage Village for music, food trucks, craft vendors, kids activities and more. https://bit.ly/3ZPJCow

Plant Sale and Festival

May 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 215 Valley St., Ball Ground

Ball Ground Garden Club’s sixth annual community celebration will feature native and heirloom plants, more than 30 local vendors, raffle prizes, live music and more. www. ballgroundgardenclub.com/plantsale

Mother’s Day Powwow and Festival

May 13-14, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Boling Park, Canton

The 32nd annual festival features a Native American dance competition, hoop and Aztec dancers, a living Native American village, Cree and Creek encampments, vendors and more. https://rthunder.com

MadLife Stage & Studios

Events listed are held monthly at 8722 Main St., Woodstock. http://madlifestageandstudios.com

Cougar Town — John Mellencamp Tribute, 7 p.m. April 8

Undiscovered Artist Showcase, 7 p.m. April 11

Sabbath — Black Sabbath Tribute, 7 p.m. April 15

The Reflex — Duran Duran Tribute, 9:55 p.m. April 21

A Tribute to the King (Elvis) by Travis LeDoyt, 2 p.m. May 21

Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters, 7:30 p.m. June 14

Cherokee County School District

https://bit.ly/3CeUdPf. Contact the school’s front office for information. Performances are at 7 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

“Radium Girls”

March 31, April 1. Cherokee High School. Tickets: $7

“The Addams Family”

April 13-15. Cherokee High School. There also is a 2 p.m. matinee April 15. Tickets: $15

“Annie Jr.”

April 14-15. Creekland Middle School students perform at Creekview High School, 7:30 p.m. Friday and 6 p.m. Saturday. There also is a sensory-friendly performance at 3 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $10

“Steel Magnolias”

April 18-21, 24-25. River Ridge High School. Tickets: $10

“Advanced Drama Showcases”

April 28-29. Cherokee High School. Tickets: $7

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