5 18 townelaker webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

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Contents

48 & 49 On the Cover

State Representative 20th District Michael Caldwell

May 2018

Features

In Every Issue

15 A Selfless Love

4 8 20 34 36 44 56 60 62 78 83 86 88 90 92 94

Meet a young husband and wife whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve

opened their hearts and home to foster

children.

16 Let the Games Begin!

Seniors participate in a variety of challenges,

from Wii bowling to frisbee golf.

24 Be a Leader

Youth council is open to teens wanting to

make a positive difference among peers and

their community.

68 A Greener Allatoona

Recycling program expands to cover more

ground, and involve campers and volunteers.

Around Towne Community News Birthdays & Celebrations Everyday Angels Robâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rescues TLBA Community Calendar Towne Lake Dining Guide Library Events Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide School News Home Sales Church Listings Clubs & Orgs Greenprints Trail Map Directory of Advertisers

Contributors 38 Don Akridge 74 Paul Baumgartner 24 Jeff Bennett 80 Kyle Bennett 52 Danny Branom 81 Christopher Brazelton 40 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 42 Dr. Kawami Clay 46 Dr. Jennifer Dattolo 15 Maleah Crate 73 Delia Halverson 32 Kurt & Sheila Johnson 82 Joseph Lemmo 54 Ann Litrel 26 Jackie Loudin 44 Dr. Christa Nelms 31 Cindy Nelson 45 Northside Hospital Cancer Institute

Advertising

68 Christopher Purvis 74 Bill Ratliff

Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com TowneLakerMagazine

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

@Townelaker

72 Susan Schulz 50 Tim Timmons 46 Dr. Amber York townelakermagazine

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

AROUND TOWNE

The

From Canton, Acworth’s Market Manager I love meeting new people. I love listening to stories and being inspired by them! Luckily that is what I get to do every day, by meeting business owners in the community and helping them find the best ways to connect with our readers, grow their businesses and get the word out about their services! I’m a Southern California girl (who still cheers for the Chargers, yeah I know!) but loves being in the South eating fried pickles! I have a background in hospitality, sales and volunteer management, which has given me the opportunity to meet many different kinds of people ̶ many of whom have inspired me to want to make a difference in this world. I have found our community doing just that, making a difference and so very generous. It is so exciting to see and hear all about the good that is being done each and every day. Many of the stories we feature are about those doing good in the community, and I love reading them. I see the businesses which, time and time again, sponsor area sports teams or school events, volunteer their time and so much more. I love that I get to meet many of you and hear your stories. Isn’t that what we were made to do in this life, be generous and give to others? One of my passions is art and volunteering for ministries that reach women who have been exploited. I bring them art projects to enjoy, and I also go on street outreaches. Recently, I was on an outreach and came across a young women who looked so familiar. After talking to her for a while, she said, “ I remember you, we painted at the safe house.” I said, “Yes, now I remember how I knew you.” So even if you never know how your smile, kind word or generosity will matter to someone, keep doing it. It looks good on you! Joyfully!

Katherine Katherine Amick is the market manager for Around Canton and Around Acworth magazines.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake What's New Connect Live offers a music and arts venue for all ages in the building originally built for Dayspring Church, at 6835 Victory Dr., Acworth. Services include concerts, visual arts exhibits, audio engineering training, live and studio recording, event space rental and internships. Dayspring services are held at 7 p.m. Fridays in the coffee shop. www.comeconnect.org. Massage Geeks has opened at 8744 Main St., Suite 103. The Massage Geeks, Daniel Carrasquillo and Aislinn McEarchern, specialize in orthopedic, medical and therapeutic massage tailored to clients’ health needs. 470-599-0899. themassagegeeks@gmail.com. www.massage-geeks.com. Uptown Cheapskate Woodstock has opened at 12184 Highway 92, Suite A-120. The thrift-consignment store accepts gently used, trendy clothes, shoes, bags and accessories for cash or store credit. 770-591-9474. www.uptowncheapskate.com/woodstock. Bridals by Madison has opened at 12926 Highway 92, Suite 200 in Woodstock. The shop, which is an intimate boutique setting, offers luxury bridal gowns in an inclusive size range. 770-485-4748. www.bridalsbymadison.com. At press time, Treasures on Main was scheduled to open May 4 at 102 Fowler St., Woodstock. The store will feature unique gift items for weddings, babies, birthdays and graduations, as well as home decor. On Facebook at Treasures Woodstock. http://treasuresmain.com.

What's Coming Fajita Valley is under construction at 180 Towne Lake Parkway. At press time, the owner was hoping the Mexican restaurant would be open by mid May.

What's Moving Rak Outfitters is moving from 450 Chambers St., in downtown to the Super Target center on Highway 92, between Bath and Body Works and the Hallmark store. The new location will be larger ̶ at 7,200-square-feet ̶ than the current location. For updates, like their Facebook page at Rak Outfitters Woodstock.

Kudos! Dolores Wahl of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices GA Properties has been recognized as Cherokee Association of Realtors 2017 Realtor of the Year. The award recognizes the agent’s spirit, civic activity, business accomplishments, activity within the Cherokee association, as well as state and national activity and educational accomplishments.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.

Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and

Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer.

Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and co-author Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com. Dee Locklin is a Georgia State University retiree

who moved to Towne Lake in 1998 with her beloved husband Lewis, now deceased, and their only son Taylor, who now lives and works in Sandy Springs. Dee joined the TowneLaker as a contributing writer in 2011 and spends much of her time catering to two pampered American Eskimo dogs, Lea and Gidget.

Joe Lemmo is an English teacher and comedian who has taught in Cherokee County since 2000. He performs improv comedy in and around Atlanta. He lives in Woodstock with his wife Justine, his son Beethoven and his cat, Wasabi.

Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren.

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,100 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 1,300 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2018. TowneLaker PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 1

America’s Community Magazine TOWNELAKER | May 2018

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

COMMUNITY

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Free Resource for Area Educators The Cherokee Farm to School Workshop will be held 8:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. May 31 at Buckeye Creek Farm, 2115 Jep Wheeler Road, in Woodstock. This event is free to all educators, and includes a goody bag with free teaching resources, and an overview of farm-to-school, building and maintaining school gardens, community resources, grants and fundraisers. A chef walk in the garden will include a harvest and lunch preparation. Other activities include building a native Novo Red hens at Buckeye Creek Farm. bee nest box, a planting activity, water and conservation lessons with the Upper Etowah River Alliance, and a session on chickens and eggs, and how to use an incubator in the classroom. Presenters will include the Cherokee County Extension Office, Cherokee County Farm Bureau, Cherokee School Nutrition Services, the Upper Etowah River Alliance and Ross Berry Farm and Apiary. To register, call 770-479-1481, Ext. 0, or email sfpahl@gfb.org.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

National Day of Prayer Observation in Woodstock Join First Baptist Church Woodstock and other local churches and community members at the Park at City Center in downtown Woodstock, noon-1 p.m. May 3, for a National Day of Prayer event. Participants pray for our community, leaders and country. The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988, the law unanimously was amended by the U.S. House and the Senate, and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on May 5, 1988, designating the first Thursday of May as a day of national prayer. Every president since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Congratulations!

In case you missed it, here's a recap of the winners of our 2018 Readers' Choice award.

Retailers

Each winner has an opportunity to express their appreciation for the voters who pushed them to the top! If you’d like to respond with a Thank You ad, please contact Patty Ponder at 770-615-3322 or patty@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Animal/Pet Supplies: PetSmart, Woodstock Bicycle Sales: Sixes Pit Boutique: Branches Consignment Store: Urban Renewal,

If you would like a window cling, a certificate to print and display, or a digital image for your website or Facebook page, email readerschoice@ aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Services Accountant: Paragon Accounting and Tax Solutions

Adult Day Care/Respite: Lotus Adult Day Care Attorney: Limbocker Law Firm Audiologist: North Georgia Audiology and Hearing Aide Center Automotive: Mike the Mechanic, Towne Lake Bakery: Alpine Bakery Bank/Credit Union: Credit Union of Georgia Barber Shop: Dave's Business Support: Big Blue Z Cardiology: WellStar Medical Group Cardiovascular Medicine Carwash: Towne Lake's Car Wash and Detail Chiropractor: Ribley Chiropractic Counseling: Hillside Counseling Center Day Care/Preschool: Hillside United Methodist Church Preschool Day Spa: Salon and Spa Venéssa Dentist: Baird and Baird Family Dentistry Dog Training: Ironclad K9 Academy ENT/Allergy Center: Ear, Nose, Throat and Allergy Specialist, Canton Financial Adviser: J. Thompson Ross Investments Funeral Home: Woodstock Funeral Home Gastroenterologist: Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates General Practitioner: TIE: Towne Lake Primary Care and Wellstar Medical Group, Towne Lake Hair Salon: Salon Gloss and Spa Health/Fitness: LA Fitness, Towne Lake Home Cleaning: Molly Maid of Cherokee County, Kennesaw and Acworth

Home Improvement/Repair: Three Brothers Painting, Inc.

Insurance: Insurance Group of the Southeast Interior Design: Pineapple Park Landscaping/Lawn Care: Red Oak Design and Landscape

Mortgage Lending: Credit Union of Georgia Music Lessons: Ken Stanton Music, Woodstock Nail Salon: Big Apple Nails Obstetrician/Gynecologist: Cherokee Women's Health Specialists

Optometrist/Ophthalmologist: Thomas Eye

Group

Orthodontist: Williams Orthodontics Orthopedics/Sports Medicine: Resurgens

Orthopaedics, Towne Lake Parkway Pediatric Dentist: Park Pediatric Dentistry Pediatrician: Northside Pediatrics Pest Control: Dyno Pest Service Pet Grooming/Boarding: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake Photographer: Brittany Weir Photography Physical Therapist: Rebound Physical Therapy Plastic Surgery: Marietta Plastic Surgery Podiatry: Village Podiatry Centers, Buckhead Crossing Private School: Hillside Preschool and Academy Realtor: Ursula and Associates, Keller Williams Senior Living Facility: Camellia Place Surgeon: Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates Travel Agency: Katie Rosser Cruises Inc. Veterinarian: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

Woodstock Florist: Brenda's House of Flowers Garden Center/Nursery: Pike Nurseries, Towne Lake Gifts/Home Décor: Woodstock Market Jeweler: Art Jewelers Liquor Store: Bullock's Wine and Spirits Pharmacy: Kroger Pharmacy, Towne Lake Specialty Foods: Sprouts Farmers Market Thrift Store: No Longer Bound Thrift Store Tires: Kauffman Tire, Eagle Drive

Recreation and Entertainment Dance Studio: Steps Dance Center Equestrian: Falcon Ridge Stables Golf Course/Club: Eagle Watch Golf Club Gymnastics Center: World of Gymnastics and Cheer

Music Venue: MadLife Stage and Studios Swim Lessons: Cherokee County Aquatic Center

Theater: Elm Street Cultural Arts Village

Restaurants American: Century House Tavern Asian: Izumi Asian Bistro Barbecue: J.D.'s Bar-B-Que Breakfast: J. Christopher's Coffee Shop: Copper Coin Dessert: TIE: Alpine Bakery and Smallcakes a Cupcakery

Fine Dining: Century House Tavern Italian: TIE: Ipp's Pastaria and Bar and Tuscany Italian Restaurant

Kid Friendly: Chick-fil-A, Towne Lake Mexican: La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant Pizzeria: Mellow Mushroom Seafood: Reel

Awards Readers’ Choice Awards Reade 10

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Breathe Easier! Sleep Better! Get Healthier! CherokeeLungAndSleep.com

Our board-certified physicians have helped thousands over the years breathe easier, sleep better and get healthier. Using the latest in nonsurgical care, lifestyle therapies and stateof-the-art medical devices and medications, our patients are served with the most advanced pulmonary and sleep disorder care possible. Additionally, we treat or supervise critical care treatment and ICU patient care.

Our Canton Office Has Moved! 678-493-2527 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 130 Canton, GA 30115 Located in medical office building on Northside Hospital Cherokee campus

New Woodstock Office Now Open 770-852-7740 900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 206 Woodstock, GA 30189

Dr. Akhil Vallabhaneni

Dr. Matthew Haack

ersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice Awards

Located on Northside-Cherokee Towne Lake Medical Campus

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Teen Leadership Cherokee Class Graduates The Teen Leadership Cherokee (TLC) class has completed the 17th annual session, sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce. Of the 80 high school sophomores who applied, 19 students were recognized for completing the program. Applicants were asked to submit a formal application and participated in a personal interview with local business leaders. Over the past three months, the TLC Class attended an orientation with their parents, a retreat, and several class sessions

planned by local business leaders, all of whom are graduates of the chamber’s Adult Leadership Cherokee program. The classes addressed community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building. An ongoing project challenged the students with reallife scenarios that would instill invaluable skills and introduce the students to tools in the community that could assist them in many circumstances.

Teen Leadership Cherokee graduates are, front row from left: Laney Broussard, Woodstock; Katherine Williams, Sequoyah; Gwendolyn Peppers, Etowah; Emily LeBlanc, Cherokee; Alyssa Kirby, Sequoyah; Emma Gelatt, Sequoyah; Anna Huller, Cherokee. Middle row, from left: TLC Vice-Chair Brittany Page, city of Woodstock; Faith Holley, Creekview; Natalie Allen, Creekview; Preslie Cushing, Creekview; Jackie Johnson, Cherokee; Belle Cool, Cherokee; Ashley Barnett, Etowah; Max Marchetti, Etowah; TLC Chairman Matthew Thomas, city of Canton. Back row, from left: Logan Griffin, Creekview; Benjamin Prien, Cherokee; Jackson Taylor, Sequoyah; Dilan Mehta, Etowah; Fish Riddick, Etowah.

State Parks Offer Summer Activities for Kids The Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Junior Ranger program offers fun, affordable and educational opportunities for youth at Red Top Mountain and other area parks. Children, ages 6-12, can fulfill their dreams of becoming an outdoor explorer by earning three levels of Junior Ranger badges this summer at various state parks around Georgia. Badges may be earned at the camper’s own pace, or at day camps in the parks, surrounded by new friends and while cultivating long-lasting memories. Activities include identifying trees or wildlife, hiking, swimming, learning about history and camping. The program offers 16 activities, creating many learning opportunities for camp attendees. Junior Ranger books may be picked up at a Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites office or downloaded for free online. This program is a great way to keep kids busy during the summer months while learning about Georgia’s outdoor offerings. GeorgiaStateParks.org/JuniorRanger. 12

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Exploring the Female Friendship The May 10 Exchange — Woodstock will address the topic of female friendships, and the most common complaints and conflicts, along with strategies for overcoming the pitfalls. Discussion will center around Shasta Nelson’s book “Frientimacy.” The Exchange meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Venue 92 in Woodstock. www.theexchangeus.org.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

By the Numbers

13,939 383 400 1,184

approximate number of children in Georgia in DFCS custody as of December 2017.

Top five reasons Why children entered DFCS custody in 2017.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Source: fostergeorgia.com/demographics-of-children-in-foster-care.

children in foster care in Cherokee County, at press time. Number can change daily. approximate number of foster youth in Georgia who are available for adoption and waiting on a family to call their own. number of children transitioned from state custody into adoptive families in fiscal year 2017.

Source: Georgia Department of Human Services Fiscal Year 2017 Fact Book.

Neglect. Substance abuse. Inadequate housing. Incarceration. Abandonment.

Source: Georgia Department of Human Services Fiscal Year 2017 Fact Book.

Minimum criteria for prospective foster parents:

• •

Must be at least 10 years older than the child to be placed, and, if single, be at least 25 years of age. Must complete a medical exam, fingerprint checks, and undergo child welfare and criminal records checks/ screenings. If you or any other adult household members (over age 18) have not been a resident of Georgia for a minimum of five years, you must be screened in the child abuse and neglect registry of each state of prior residence.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

• • •

Must complete a two-hour orientation in the local county office or via the internet. Must successfully complete pre-service IMPACT Family Centered Practice training. Must provide proof of current residence and financial stability.

Source: fostergeorgia.com/general-information.

Opening Hearts and Homes Finding joy in foster parenting.

BY MALEAH CRATE

As a newlywed, the frequently asked question, “So, when will you guys start having kids?” is unavoidable. But, no one ever asks, “So, when do you plan on opening your home to raise someone else’s kid?” Which was what I was asking myself — a lot. I found myself so content with all that God had given us, that I was uncomfortable. Which, I know, sounds crazy, but I don’t think I’m the only one who has been there. We had empty seats at our table, a bedroom we never went into, and space in our car for a few more little humans. God had been so generous and kind to give us all we needed, it felt wrong to keep it to ourselves. In September 2017, my husband and I started the foster approval process. The four- to six-month process consisted of a lot of paperwork, home visits and interviews. In February of this year, we got our first placement — two boys, ages 5 and 2, and cute as could be. We had been married a little over a year at this point. I will never forget opening my front door to those little boys, who I had never seen. They were holding hands and trying to be brave. That morning, they had woken up in a home of neglect and instability, not knowing things were going to change. They were dropped off at the Department of Family and Child Services office, left by someone they trusted, and ended up on our doorstep — with nothing but a garbage bag of dirty clothes that didn’t fit. It is such a humbling feeling to be considered fit to love these children back to a place of security and worth. The little boys, who were our first

Jordan and Maleah Crate

placement, weren’t with us long. They were restored with their dad, who has loved and taken care of them so well. A comment most foster parents hear is, “I could never give them back, it would be too hard.” Yes, watching our boys leave was one of the hardest things we have done, and we will always love and miss them, but we aren’t “giving them back.” While we loved them like they were our own, the reality is, they never were ours to give back. We are responsible to be faithful to love them until their parents are ready to, and what a gift that is. Foster care is so much more than taking a child in and loving them as your own. It is loving and supporting their parents — who desperately need

it. It is modeling how parents are supposed to treat their kids, and how parents are supposed to treat each other. We currently are fostering our third little boy, and we will celebrate our second wedding anniversary this month. Being foster parents has been the hardest, most joy-filled and humbling thing my husband and I have ever said yes to. And, I am so glad we did.

Maleah serves on staff at First Baptist Woodstock. She and her husband, Jordan, enjoy spending time with their dogs, Hank and Mabel, and investing in their community.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM

Fun & Games The 2018 Cherokee County Senior Olympics kicked off with a splash in early April. Senior citizens throughout the county participated in the swimming event, held at the Cherokee County Aquatics Center. Other events included pickle ball, baggo and basketball free throw, bowling, billiards, horseshoes. The closing ceremony was held at the senior center on Univeter Road. For information about future olympics, contact www.cherokeecountyseniorolympics.com.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

“Amazing staff! And the brain training is allowing me to actually be anxiety free for the first time in 20 years. Highly recommend anyone with depression/anxiety or any type of mental struggle to get a brain map.” — Lindsey Wolosiewicz, Canton

Advanced Technology to Address Common Conditions oodstock is headquarters to the first neurotherapy center in the Southeast to mainstream neurofeedback therapy, according to MasterMind Neurotherapy operations manager Julia Phares. Neurotherapy has been recognized by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a category 1 for the best supported research for a solution to ADHD. Cherokee County residents can look to the new center, which opened in March, for help with issues including ADHD/ADD, anxiety, autism spectrum, behavior problems and other life-altering dysfunctions. “Our neurotherapy center is dedicated to helping children and adults reach their optimal potential through our comprehensive neurotherapy program,” Phares said. “Our approach to balanced and functional brains is to identify and address issues such as learning challenges, behavioral problems, memory and sleep disorders and unstable emotions that may be caused by dysregulation in the brain.” Here’s how it works. The clinicians take an “image” of the brain using a non-invasive qEEG imaging program that records and responds to brain waves. Protocols are developed to include brain-training exercises and nutritional modifications. All tests are pain-free and performed in a warm and friendly environment with compassionate, experienced staff. Neurotherapy is direct brain-function training that rewards the patient with positive reinforcements when the correct waves are being produced. This type of learning through a rewards training system lets the brain adapt to changes

PHOTO BY REBEKAH GREGG

From left, Ana Reid, LPC, Dr. David Williams and operations manager Julia Phares.

on its own and improves relaxation needed for good brain function. Traditional neurofeedback therapy using a two-channel training system has shown effectiveness for certain conditions over the past 60-plus years, but the technology has definitely taken a forward jump with new, cutting-edge qEEG and training systems that are FDA approved. “While our 19-channel EEG technology allows us to view multiple layers and areas of the brain at one time, our neurotherapy system trains multiple networks of the brain, simultaneously, rather than a two-channel training that only addresses one area at a time. This advancement increases the ability to gain an accurate assessment and to more effectively address any dysregulation that is present during training,” Phares said. MasterMind Neurotherapy addresses multiple areas of concern, from ADD/ ADHD, anxiety and OCD to certain degrees of TBI (traumatic brain injury), post-concussion syndrome, and deficiency related dysfunction. The program is drug-free, radiation-free and pain-free while working surprisingly fast,

“Still in the beginning of this process, but my boys have seen huge progress and change, and we are all very excited! We all love Julia, and it is a clean and comfortable office space. Both boys always look forward to their trainings. Staff has been above and beyond helpful, and explains in detail the process. ” — Kelli Teresi, Canton 18

Sponsored Content

director. Dolores has served on the board for the Code of Ethics, has been involved in the GAR Legislative conference in voting for policies and regulations to protect and help Realtors. She has been a master’s agent with her company for 17 years and Top Achiever’s agent with the CAOR board for 17 years. “Wahl Team Inc. has been in the real estate business for over 17 years, with more than $60 million in real estate transactions in metro Atlanta, and will be here for many more,” Dolores said. While Dolores’ days as a teacher may be behind her, she continues to educate her peers by sharing her knowledge and experience. “I feel that, at this point in my career, I have been able to share my experience with other Realtors, and I’m happy to take on the role of mentoring new agents, too. It is my strong belief in having a friendly, honest and collegiate real estate practice, and I enjoy sharing with other agents and brokers.”

The Wahl Team Inc. 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Suite 100 Woodstock, GA 30189 O: 770-517-2150 Cell: 404-428-4262 www.wahlteam.com

When an Aging Parent Needs a Care Manager BY CINDY NELSON

Elder care, also known as long-term care, results when a loved one needs assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) that many of us take for granted. Generally, ADLs consist of the ability to move about, dress, bathe, eat, use a toilet or take medication. Some programs, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, also consider preparing meals, paying bills and the ability to see as ADLs. The National Care Planning Council estimates that, at any given time, at least 22 percent of all seniors, age 65 and older, are receiving some form of elder-care support in the home, or in a facility. It is estimated that 70 percent of us will need elder care sometime during our lives. Most elder care is provided at home by family members, but sometimes care needs can be more than loved ones can handle. When this happens, a care manager, also known as a geriatric care manager or life care specialist, can use his or her experience to help relieve stress on caregivers by implementing a care plan that maximizes resources. For patients who still live at home, care managers often can help a family plan to avoid premature admittance into a care facility by finding the right services, and helping caregivers cope with the situation. Sometimes, a family attempts to keep a loved one at home, when

it is not the best situation. For example, consider the family where all family members are employed full time, and both mom and dad need intensive care at home. In an attempt to cover the situation, the family trades off taking care of mom and dad in the mornings, evenings and weekends. But, they can't properly attend to these needs. A geriatric care specialist may have a better perspective about the situation. In this case, an assisted living facility might be a better choice. If there is not enough money, then a Medicaid facility may be the only choice. Geriatric managers are almost always social workers, counselors, nurses or other individuals who provide services that include support and encouragement. A geriatric service specialist rarely is involved directly in solving the financial or legal needs of his or her client, but instead focuses on personal, emotional, health or family support issues. The Aging Life Care Association (aginglifecare.org) is an organization that provides listings of local certified care managers to help you get in contact with someone to help implement a care plan for you or your loved one.

Cindy Nelson is an elder care law attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 900-200, Woodstock, GA 30189, www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.

NorthsideCherokeeOrtho.com Dr. Travis Jones specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders and injuries of the foot and ankle, and offers conservative and surgical treatment options, focusing on returning you to a high functional level. Our experienced team of physicians is dedicated to providing the highest-quality care possible, and offers care for all types of sports-related injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.

• Adult & pediatric sports medicine • Operative & non-operative injury management • Reconstructive foot & ankle surgery • Arthroscopy of the foot & ankle • Diabetic (Charcot) foot reconstruction & management • General foot & ankle care • Fracture care Call or visit today: (770) 517-6636 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 320, Woodstock, GA 30189 TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Update on the Local Real Estate Market BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

We are pleased to report that, to date, the housing market in our area has continued to show strong improvement by almost every measure. The data is showing us that because of the decline in inventory of available resales and new construction, homes sold faster, for more money and for more of their list price as compared to the first quarter of 2017. Homes sold for 4.51 percent more money per square foot in 2018 than 2017, with the average single family home selling for an average of 12.26 percent more (or $30,829.60 more on average). The total days on market improved by 8.73 days as well. Homes are taking an average of only 37.64 total days to sell and closer to 25 days when priced correctly. We are surprised to see a decline in total sales (resales and new construction) when comparing the first quarter of

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

2017 to 2018. Judging from the increase in prices and the shortening of the days on market, there is no lack of buyer demand, just a lack of supply. This could be a function of new construction labor shortages in combination with resale seller's reluctance to sell without knowing they will find a home to buy. Market conditions are still ideal for sellers and should be improving even more for buyers as we move into a more balanced market, provided interest rates remain low.

Kurt and Sheila are a top-producing real estate team that lives in Towne Lake and has served Cherokee County for more than 15 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com

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CALL/TEXT (770) 594-9969 TOWNELAKER | May 2018

EVERYDAY

Nineteen years ago, Paula and Neal Howard joyfully were anticipating the birth of their son as they planned for the next chapter of their life together. However, midterm pregnancy complications and tests revealed their greatest fears when they received a phone call from their doctor. “All we remember were the words, test results and Down Syndrome,” Neal said. “The doctor further explained that our son would be born with an extra 21st chromosome and that the tests were 97 percent accurate. “Words cannot adequately describe the flood of emotions and fears we experienced following that phone call, but the word, ‘option’ was not one of them. For us, it was our son, and he was NOT an option. While clinging to the hope of falling into the 3 percent, we began educating and arming ourselves for the challenges ahead. “Little did we know that our son would teach us more about ourselves and life than we’d ever imagine.” Myles Harrison Howard was born a month early on leap day, Feb. 29, 2000, at 9:22 p.m.

Myles with his dad Neal. 34

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“A glance at his precious almond shaped eyes confirmed that Myles was, in fact, born with Down Syndrome. But, it was not a bad, scary thing anymore. It was like someone telling me, ‘You just won the lottery, and you have to pay taxes.’ “Myles was also born with congenital heart defects that required the first of two open heart surgeries when he was 4 months old. Later, he was diagnosed with autism and axpraxia, a speech disorder in which a person has trouble speaking correctly and consistently. Myles has worked hard all his life, receiving physical, speech and occupational therapies.” Fast-forward to March 3, 2018, when Myles celebrated his 18th birthday with friends. It was a day filled with his favorite things: Trans-Siberian Orchestra and “Phantom of the Opera” music, Monster Jam toys, and nerf guns. “During the days following his birthday, Myles would randomly say the word hospital, as though he wanted to go there, but nothing appeared to be wrong. Because Myles has always liked doctors and nurses, we thought nothing of it,” Neal said. “Several days later, Paula received a call from the River Ridge High School nurse indicating that Myles was running a fever. The next morning, he woke up coughing what appeared to be blood, so we took him to the emergency room, where X-rays revealed a small amount of fluid in his right lung. He was given a strong antibiotic to treat his pneumonia.

Paula and Neal have fun with son Myles.

“By Sunday morning, his condition quickly worsened, and his breathing became labored. A return trip to North Fulton Regional Center’s ER and more tests revealed that both lungs were now filled with fluid and Myles was quickly admitted and placed into the intensive care unit.” Myles was diagnosed with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, (ARDS), a potentially life-threatening lung condition that prevents enough oxygen from getting to the lungs and into the blood. Hours later, Myles’ heart stopped, prompting a Code Blue emergency. “It didn't slow, it just stopped. There were many ups and down in the hours that followed, until doctors explained that Myles needed to be transported to a Level 1 trauma unit,” Neal said. He was life-flighted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta — Egleston Hospital, where he remains today. As this story is written, Myles remains on a ventilator in ICU as his continued on page 87

Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Fiona and she is super cute. She is a Cairn Terrier mix and about 2 years old. She is very curious and has wiry hair. She likes to snuggle in your arms. She is nervous in the shelter and came in as a stray. This cat’s name is Marshall. He is a Domestic Short Hair mix. He was turned into the shelter on March 6. I don’t know why anyone would want to turn this cat in. You better adopt this cat because he is purrfect.

I interviewed Christy Reeves who is a Wildlife Rehabilitator and works with Dr. Molony, who I interviewed last month at the Georgia Equine Veterinary Hospital (4813 Arbor Hill Road, Canton / 678-341-9998). You are a wildlife rehabilitator. What does that mean? I am licensed in the State of Georgia to take in injured small animals. I raise them and when they are ready, I release them back into the wild. How many animals do you rescue in a year? 150 to 225. What types of animals do you rescue? Small mammals. Groundhogs, opossums, gray squirrels and flying squirrels. For rabies vector species like skunks, foxes and raccoons, you need another special license. With regard to birds, I pass them on to people licensed to rehabilitate birds. When people see a helpless animal, what should they do with it? Call a rehabilitator. Take it to Bells Ferry Animal Hospital (6410 Highway 92, Acworth. 770-926-5311.) and they will call someone. People should not try to feed them or give them water. If fluid goes into their lungs they will aspirate and die. The biggest thing you can do for the animal is keep it warm. What do you want people to think about when baby birds and squirrels are around? Leave animals alone unless they are patently injured. Appreciate the nature around you.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

What are the biggest challenges you have to deal with? Educating the public. Not all animals have to be rescued, like fawns. Their mothers usually appear for morning and evening feedings, but people kidnap them. Baby birds that have fallen out of nests. People think they need help but their parents have an eye on them, and are trying to teach them to fly. But people kidnap them. What is a story that you love to tell? Eleanor the Groundhog was found by some people under a portapotty. She was just 6 inches long and about 5 days old. I raised and took care of her for three months. She was my first groundhog, and taught me a lot about how highly intelligent and wonderful these creatures are.

What do you like most about your job? I love returning animals to where Orphaned baby chipmunk (6.5 weeks) and baby squirrel they are supposed to be. Seeing (4 weeks) being syringe fed by Christy Reeves. them back in the wild.

Follow Rob on Facebook! @robsrescues

When a new born squirrel comes to you, what chances does it have to become an adult and what do you do to help it? With me it has a 90 percent chance of survival. With the general public is has a 10 percent chance. I keep it warm and feed it the correct diet. At 16 weeks I take it out into a large release cage and it needs to show me that it can perform all the functions that it needs to survive in the wild, like crack wild nuts before it is released back into the wild.

I’m Rob Macmillan and I’m on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. These animals are at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter at 1015 Univeter Road, Canton. Contact me at robsrescues@gmail.com.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

A Retirement Gender Gap DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

What is the retirement outlook for the average 50-something working woman? As a generalization, less sunny than that of a man in her age group. A middle-class woman may end up less ready to retire than a middle-class man. Most middle-class retirees get their income from three sources. An influential 2016 National Institute on Retirement Security study called them the “three-legged stool” of retirement. Social Security provides some of that income, retirement account distributions some more, and pensions complement those two sources for a fortunate few.1 For many retirees today, that “three-legged stool” may appear broken or wobbly. Pension income may be nonexistent, and retirement accounts too small to provide sufficient financial support. The problem is even more pronounced for women because of a few factors.1 When it comes to median earnings per gender, women earn 80 percent of what men make. The gender pay gap actually varies depending on career choice, educational level, work experience, and job tenure, but it tends to be greater among older workers.2 At the median salary level, this gap costs women about $419,000 over a 40-year career. Earnings aside, there is also the reality that women often spend fewer years in the workplace than men. They may leave work to raise children or care for spouses or relatives. This means fewer years of contributions to tax-favored retirement accounts and fewer years of employment by which to determine Social Security income. In fact, the most recent snapshot (2015) shows an average yearly Social Security benefit of $18,000 for men and $14,184 for women. An average female Social Security

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

recipient receives 79 percent of what the average male Social Security recipient gets.2,3 How may you plan to overcome this retirement gender gap? The clear answers are to invest and save more, earlier in life, to make the catch-up contributions to retirement accounts starting at age 50, to negotiate the pay you truly deserve at work all your career, and even to work longer. There are no easy answers here. They all require initiative and dedication. Combine some or all of them with insight from a financial professional, and you may find yourself closing the retirement gender gap. Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA / SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be continued on page 87 Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.

WellStar Kennestone Honored for Top-Level Cardiac Care WellStar Kennestone is the only hospital in the state of Georgia and the second hospital in the nation to receive the triple distinction of the Disease Specific Care Certification for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, Cardiac Valve Repair/Replacement and Congestive Heart Failure Program by The Joint Commission. All WellStar hospitals have received the Gold Seal of Approval accreditation from The Joint Commission, recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects a hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to meeting defined performance criteria. Recognition by The Joint Commission is your assurance that you can trust WellStar for the highest quality of care. For more information, visit wellstar.org or call 770-956-STAR (7827).

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Secrets to Entrepreneurial Success Be Faithful, Stay Focused, Serve Community

PROVIDED BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

“If you’re focusing on personal gain and single transactions, you’re missing the point.” Heath Matiak made it clear to the Lunch Circuit audience – a monthly meetup of successful Cherokee entrepreneurs – that the family-owned commercial HVAC company, R&D Mechanical Services, is merely a vehicle for the larger picture; to serve the community by providing opportunities for others to grow and prosper within the skilled trades industry. Matiak joined Jonathan Chambers, community manager of entrepreneurship for the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, on stage for the Lunch Circuit’s 10th gathering. Matiak’s calm and collected demeanor balanced well with Chambers’ unconventional interview approach. With a mix of discipline and vulnerability, the audience was in for a real treat, complimentary cookies aside. Matiak is the co-owner of R&D Mechanical Services alongside his father Robbie Matiak. After completing his service in the military, Matiak returned home and partnered with his father to transform the small family business into what is now a 20-person operation located in Canton. When asked about how Matiak attempts to differentiate his company from the crowd, the simple answer was that they don’t try. “Differentiating yourself from the competition is a never-ending target. You can do it for a 40

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time but then everyone else catches up to you and you have to do it again. Rather than being different, we focus on being efficient and doing what we say we will do.” By keeping the focus on doing what they do, as well as they can, an essential core value of the company, R&D sidesteps the trap most beginning startups fall into – the desire to be all things to all people. Matiak’s advice for entrepreneurs starting out: “Pick the furthest point you can see and work backwards from that. Figure out the steps required to make that step happen and come up with a plan from there. Connecting the dots is not more complicated than the daily discipline to work toward your goal. Ignore the input that says you can’t, won’t, or should not. If it’s founded in a reason, take the input. Past that, you know your path. Stay on it.” The next Lunch Circuit, at 11:30 p.m. May 9, is the one-year anniversary of the program and features local Woodstock entrepreneur and creative founder of J King Images, Jerry King.

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention & expansion. For more information, visit www.cherokeega.org.

Summer at the Club AT E A G L E W AT C H G O L F C L U B JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS Monday – Thursday | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 4 – 7 | June 11 – 14 | June 23 – 26 JUNIOR GOLF CLINICS Every Saturday | 11 a.m. | $10 Members | $20 non-Members Junior Golf Memberships available starting at $60 per month. FOR GOLF CLINIC AND CAMP INFORMATION, CONTACT:

770.591.1000 x 1 | matt.preston@clubcorp.com FOR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION, CONTACT:

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Personalized Plans Help Conquer Weight Loss BY DR. KAWAMI CLAY, MD FACOG

Awaken the Glow within Her.

this mother’s day give mom a spa package that will reveal her radiance while nourishing her body and soul. or, let her choose, give mom a GIFT CARD for any of mother’s day is may 13th. our salon and spa services. spa packages and gift cards salon • spa hours may be purchased online too. mon & fri 9-6 tues, wed, thurs 9-9 sat 8:30-5 8516 main street historic downtown woodstock www.salonvenessa.com 770.591.2079

Stay Connected with Specials and Promotions. 42

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Popular diets have two things in common: They tout rapid, dramatic results and they accommodate the masses with an ironic “one size fits all concept.” Many participants even experience significant weight loss in a short time − initially. Inevitably, however, the dreaded plateau occurs. Then, despite all efforts, those last stubborn, morale-shattering pounds remain. Women often are discouraged because yet another diet did not yield the desired, optimistic results it promised. Their frustration is understandable - even warranted - because most people are simply unaware of the complexities involved in safe weight loss management. A woman’s chemistry and anatomy differ greatly from a man’s, and even from that of other females. Fad diets usually fail because they are not individually customized. Myriad factors can hinder successful weight loss. Medical history, genetics, hormonal issues, body mass index (BMI), basal metabolic rate (BMR), lifestyle, general health, medications, even state of mind must be considered. For instance, a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, depression or a sluggish thyroid can greatly impact the rate at which unwanted weight is shed. So can lack of support and negativity from family and Fad diets friends, who may be tired of hearing usually fail talk about another unrealistic quick weight loss trend. because These are important considerations they are not that contribute to dietary outcomes: regular weekly follow-ups, one-onindividually one consultations, and ongoing moral customized. support - even long after the desired goal is reached. Additionally, some patients may require prescriptive intervention through safe and approved supplements, appetite suppressants and even injections, if necessary. The correct nutrition fuels the body and mind like curative medicine, providing more pronounced energy, lifelong physical health benefits, and cognitive clarity, the same way the proper additives keep a car running at peak performance. Adhering to a healthy diet and exercise regimen is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be an excruciating experience. With time, perseverance, nutritional insight, and safe medical intervention, when necessary, any women can overcome the setbacks that would normally prevent her from reaching her dietary goals. With proper guidance, a harmonious balance between a comfortable self-image and a permanent, healthy lifestyle is achievable.

Dr. Kawami Clay joined Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists in July 2017. She has practiced medicine for 11 years, and is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology. She is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology.

LIVE SOUTH ON MAIN

EXPERIENCE WOODSTOCK’S NEW URBAN VILLAGE Guided by the unique vision of John Wieland, South on Main is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a way of life. Amidst twenty acres of green space, amenities, sidewalks and trails, South on Main offers a diverse collection of charming new homes and townhomes. Each is thoughtfully designed, individually detailed and expertly crafted - with included features and finishes you’ll find nowhere else. POOL & CABANA COMING 2018

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TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Tips for Summertime Hearing Aid Care BY DR. CHRISTA NELMS

When we think of summer, we think of wonderful things like going on vacation to the beach, pools, barbecues with family and friends, and many other fun times spent outdoors. During these activities, the heat and humidity can affect the performance of your hearing aids. Here are a few tips that will help you take care of your hearing aids in the summer heat so that you will be hearing optimally at all your summer festivities.

The moisture that comes from sweat and humidity is one of your hearing aid’s worst enemies. It’s important to protect them from moisture, even water-resistant devices. A hearing aid dehumidifier such as a Perfect Dry Lux or Dry and Store can dry out the moisture and prolong the life and performance of your device.

The humidity of summer can provide ideal environments for microbial growth which can cause bacteria to grow on your hearing aids. It is extra important during these hot months to clean your hearing aids daily to remove germs and bacteria.

Disinfectant towelettes that are safe for hearing aids are recommended, such as Audio Wipes. The Dry and Store hearing aid dehumidifier is also a good option because it not only removes moisture but has a UV germicidal lamp to sanitize your hearing aids. This dehumidifier is recommended for individuals who spend a lot of time outside.

The high temperatures of summer can damage hearing aids if they are left in the direct sunlight or hot temperatures. You never want to leave your hearing aids in a hot car. Keep them stored in a dry, cool area when you are not wearing them. If you are spending time on the beach, you may want to leave your hearing aids inside to prevent exposure to the high heat, moisture and sand.

Christa Nelms, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2000.

Towne Lake Business Association Business owners and managers wear many hats. We at the Towne Lake Business Association support the many roles you play by bringing in presenters to assist you in the many facets of your job. Join at www.tlba.org for $75/yr. and enjoy networking, learning from great speakers and building our community of business leaders. PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT LUNCH-N-LEARN WHEN:

Tues., May 17, 2018 12:15 - 2 p.m.

WHERE:

The Tavern at Towne Lake Hills E.

COST:

$14 (includes lunch)

SPEAKERS: Drew Tonsmeire – Area Director with UGA Small Business Development at KSU TOPIC:

How to really network

Thank you to Christian Brothers Automotive for being our Title Sponsor in what was a very successful fundraiser. The Entrepreneurial, Leadership and Work Based Learning Scholarships will be presented at awards ceremonies at Etowah, River Ridge and Woodstock High Schools. Recipients will be announced next month. Thank you for supporting our community by " Keeping Towne Lake Dollars in Cherokee" 44

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT You may already be familiar with us from seeing our listings on the back of the TowneLaker since 2011, but we wanted to take this opportunity to introduce ourselves as your neighbors. Sheila and I began in real estate in 2001 after selling an electric sign company we started in 1994. We Kurt & Sheila Johnson made the Inc. 500 list two consecutive years and then sold in 2000 to a publicly traded company. We know how to grow companies that earn loyal customers, so we dived into real estate in Towne Lake. We chose to live and work in Towne Lake in 2002, initially because of the schools. Our oldest son, Logan, started at Bascomb Elementary in 2003, followed by his siblings, Parker and Grace. Once we moved here, we were hooked on the amazing community of people and the amenities. We are happy still to be residents of Towne Lake and couldn't be bigger advocates for the community and all it has to offer. We'd love to help you meet your goals of buying or selling in Towne Lake. You can reach us at 404-954-2486 or www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com. - Kurt Johnson

Preventive Health Screenings Help Beat Cancer PROVIDED BY NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL CANCER INSTITUTE

When caught early, cancer is often easier to treat and beat. That’s why cancer screenings are so pivotal to the early detection and treatment of this deadly disease. However, new clinical studies may lead to new screening recommendations for (and increased confusion about) screenings and healthy living.

Who do you listen to?

The most important thing you can do is to know your body, recognize changes and report them to your doctor when they occur. Keep a detailed personal and family health history. Then, talk with your doctor about what screenings and lifestyle changes are right for you.

When do I need to be screened?

Regardless of your age, have annual checkups with your doctor. It’s here that you’ll discuss your overall well-being, including any life changes. Considering your medical and family histories, your doctor will know best what screenings you should have and when. Be proactive about your health and do your own research. Learn about your cancer risks and what screenings are recommended for your age and gender. Take any concerns you have to your doctor.

Prostate cancer

Beginning at age 55, men at average risk for developing prostate cancer should begin to discuss screening with their doctor. Men at high risk for developing prostate cancer, including those who are African-American or have a family history of the disease, should begin discussing screening even sooner, at around 40.

Lung cancer

Screening is recommended for high-risk individuals who are 5077 and smoke, and who have one or more additional risk factors. Risk factors may include having a family history of lung cancer; exposure to hazardous substances such as asbestos, arsenic or uranium; or living in a city with high levels of air pollution.

Skin cancer (melanoma)

Regardless of your age, have yearly body checks by a dermatologist and perform self-checks once a month. Use a hand mirror to check hard-to-see places. Individuals with reduced immunity or who have had skin cancer before, and those with a strong family history of skin cancer are at higher risk for developing skin cancer. Call your doctor if you notice anything unusual.

Colorectal cancer

Beginning at age 50, men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, meaning you have a family history of the disease or have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, you should discuss earlier screenings with your doctor.

Breast cancer

Women should begin annual mammograms beginning at age 40 and continue for as long as they are in good health. Some women, because of their family history, genetic tendency or certain other factors, need to have an MRI in addition to mammography. Your doctor can tell you whether you should have additional tests or should start screening at an earlier age.

Cervical cancer

Routine pap tests are crucial for the early detection and treatment of cervical cancer. Women 21 to 65 years should have a routine pap test at least once every three years. HPV vaccines help protect against most, but not all, cases of HPV cervical infections. Regular pelvic exams are highly recommended. The HPV vaccine is given over 6 months to males and females ages 9-26.

L E AV E T H E W O R R I E S. L I V E T H E L I F E . The Arbor at BridgeMill offers an active, carefree lifestyle filled with comfortable living space, great amenities—and exactly the level of care and support needed. Call (770) 373-7492 today to ask about our outstanding move-in incentives!

Assisted Living and Memory Care now available.

700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton, GA 30114 | ArborBridgeMill.com TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Don’t Let Back Pain Keep You Down BY AMBER YORK, DC

This is the season of planting flowers, laying pine straw, and giving your neglected outdoor space a facelift. This also happens to be when I see an influx of lower-back complaints. Limited activity throughout the winter followed by long hours of heavy lifting, bending and twisting can be a recipe for disaster, especially if you have a weak or troublesome lower back. One of the keys to maintaining a healthy lower back is to ensure you have strong and stable spinal and abdominal muscles. Generally, most lower back pain can be associated with tight leg muscles and weak abdominal muscles. Most people, however, are unaware of the relationship between muscle groups and tend to overlook the importance of stretching in addition to strengthening. In reality, these two go hand-in-hand and will help support the lower back greatly. The muscles of the back, the spinal muscles, were designed to work together with the abdominal muscles to provide postural support. If your abdominal muscles are weak, then the spinal muscles will have to work harder to carry the load, leaving you more susceptible to injury. Tightness of the hamstrings, piriformis and hip flexors can be just as troublesome, causing dysfunction of the lower

back and pelvis, thus creating lower back pain. Thankfully, there are a variety of exercises that can be done from the comfort of your own home to help keep you pain free. Some of the most common core exercises are the floor bridge, the plank and the cobra. Exercises such as knee to chest, cat/cow, seated piriformis, and standing hamstring stretch are great for stretching the muscles of the legs and hips. As always, it is best to check with a trusted healthcare provider before adding any new exercise regimen to your daily routine. If you do find yourself in pain after a long day of yard work, consider the use of an ice pack or an epsom salt bath to help reduce pain and inflammation, and don't be a stranger at your chiropractor’s office. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments and exercise are highly effective treatments for uncomplicated lower back pain.

Dr. Amber York is a Life University graduate specializing in low force adjusting at Towne Lake Family Chiropractic.

Keeping an Eye on Spring Allergies BY DR. JENNIFER DATTOLO

It’s that time of year. Spring allergies are here and on the rise. An estimated 50 million people in the United States suffer from seasonal allergies. Along with sneezing and runny noses, these allergies also cause eye symptoms. The most common allergens, which cause eye allergies, are pollens, molds, dust and pet dander. Symptoms of ocular allergies include red, itchy, watery eyes, and swollen eyelids. The best way to control your eye allergies is to avoid the allergens. This is not always easy, especially during pollen The best way However, there are to control your season. steps you can take to help ease your allergic reactions. eye allergies Wear wraparound sunglasses is to avoid the to help to shield eyes from pollens in the air. They also allergens. provide the added benefit of decreasing the amount of ultraviolet light exposed to your retina. If you are a contact lens wearer, it can be beneficial to switch from two-week or monthly disposables to daily disposable lenses. This modality gives you new, fresh, clean contact lenses every day, and prevents the build-up of allergens and other debris on the lenses, reducing ocular irritations. Some people must 46

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

decrease the number of hours they wear their contacts during the day or discontinue contact lens use during peak allergy season. Oral antihistamines and decongestants are widely used to treat seasonal allergies. For some, these medications are enough to rid them of their symptoms. However, these drugs can also add to or cause dry eyes. There are several over the counter eye drops for ocular allergies. Some of these drops are marketed to “get the red out.” Chronic use of these types of drops have been known to worsen symptoms, so use them with caution. More severe symptoms may require prescription drops to obtain symptom relief, including steroids. Whatever your course of treatment, try your best to not rub your eyes when they itch. This causes the release of histamine into the tear film, worsening symptoms. Cold compresses held over the eyes are helpful in relieving the itching. Seek help early during allergy season to help lessen the severity of ocular allergic reactions.

Dr. Jennifer Dattolo, FCOVD, optometrist at Eyes on Towne Lake, has been in practice for 17 years and enjoys serving the Woodstock community. 770-702-5996. www.EyesonTowneLake.com.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Friends and Family, Representing our families in Georgia’s House of Representatives over the past six years has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I truly can’t thank you enough. As you already may know, I share comments and reasoning behind every single vote I make online at CaldwellForHouse.com/legislative-tracker. I wanted to take a moment to share some highlights with you of the work I’ve been able to do on our behalf over the past three legislative bienniums. On the next page, I’ve included information on some of the most noteworthy legislation I worked on this past year. Also, I would like to extend an invitation to join me at our Weekly Coffee With District 20. Every Saturday at 9 a.m., you can come to Copper Coin Coffee in Woodstock to discuss issues important to Cherokee County and Georgia with others in the community. These meetings are just one more way I make myself accessible to each of you. If that doesn’t work for your schedule, feel free to call me anytime on my personal cell phone at 678-523-8570. As I promised you in 2012, I will not run for more than four consecutive terms in Georgia’s House. That means this 2018 election is the last time in a row you will see my name on your ballot; I’d certainly appreciate your support this year! Thank you once again for the opportunity to represent you in our General Assembly, and for your continued support. Have an outstanding day!

Michael Caldwell

State Representative, 20th District I believe that part of serving as your representative includes being accessible. You may contact me below at any time, and I always will do my best to be as responsive as possible. Email michael@caldwellforhouse.com Phone 678-523-8570 Facebook.com/votecaldwell Twitter.com/michaelcaldwell 48

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

About Michael Caldwell

Elected in 2012, Michael Caldwell is the Republican representative for Woodstock in the Georgia House of Representatives. Michael was the first legislator in Georgia to refuse lobbyist dollars and gifts in any form, and also was the first representative to return all unused campaign funds to donors after every election cycle. His legislative office and campaign have set a higher standard of transparency and accountability in governing and campaigning than ever has been seen in Georgia. Michael and his wife Katie were raised in Cherokee County, Georgia. They now live in Towne Lake in Woodstock with their son Oliver and their two Great Danes: Liberty and Justice. Michael owns an enterprisefocused web design and development agency called Black Airplane.

Paid for by Caldwell for House

Browse through more legislation using our online Legislative Tracker! CaldwellForHouse.com/legislative-tracker

2018: HB 918 - First Income Tax Cut in State History In 2018, the Georgia House and Senate passed into law the first reduction in the Georgia income tax. This is a tremendous first step toward the elimination of the state income tax. In 2019, the personal and corporate income tax rates will reduce from 6 percent to 5.75 percent, and in 2020, they will reduce again to 5.5 percent. The total tax reduction package that this cut was included in is estimated to reduce the overall tax burden of Georgia by $5 billion over the next five years.

2013, 2015, 2017: HR 37 - Term Limits As promised, one of the first pieces of legislation I introduced as your state representative was a bill proposing consecutive term limits for our state legislature. It could be years before term limits become a reality in Georgia, but now that we’ve started the discussion, we can make meaningful progress. We have added co-sponsors every year I have sponsored the legislation, and, if you send me back for two more years, I proudly will sponsor the legislation again.

2017: SB 85 - Georgia Craft Breweries As of 2017, Georgia ranked dead last in the Union for our craft beer laws. We remained the only state that prohibited craft brewers from selling beer in their brewery. They were required by law to sell every drop of their product through a distributor. Our law set Georgia’s brewers at a dramatic disadvantage. Brewers located in other states were 2.5 times as profitable as breweries in Georgia, on average. For three years, I advocated for a change in this requirement, and we saw the product of that work passed in 2017 as SB 85. We have seen nearly 100 new breweries apply for license in Georgia since passage, and estimates show a possibility of 12,000-plus new jobs in Georgia due to this simple bill.

2015: HB 65 - Public Hearings and Financial Disclosures for School Systems and Charters This bill that I authored was passed in 2016, and does three simple things: • Requires all school districts and charter schools in Georgia to hold two public hearings before the passage of a budget. • Requires that they post (at a minimum) a summary proposed and adopted budget online for public consumption. • Requires that, upon request, the authority will make the entire line item detailed budget available to any taxpayer electronically. When I started this effort, Georgia required that every political subdivision, except for those associated with education, hold public hearings prior to the passage of a budget. This bill closed that gap This bill also required any “local education agency” (school government) to provide a digital alternative to a printed budget, which sometimes could cost $500 or more for a citizen requesting the budget.

2015 HB 252, 2018 HB 783 - Repealing Obsolete Law and Government As the secretary of the House Code Revision Committee, I am honored to serve as an officer on a committee tasked with repealing laws rather than passing them. We seek out antiquated, obsolete or unconstitutional state laws and government authorities, committees, commissions, etc. for repeal. In 2015, I was honored to pass the J. Calvin Hill Jr. Act, named for our former committee chairman and Cherokee County legislative colleague. As of this writing, HB 783 is my second bill in this effort and awaits final passage in the Senate. Between these two bills, I have repealed significantly more law than I have passed over my six years in the legislature.

Finance Tracker In Georgia, a candidate seeking election for state representative is required to report financial activity only a few times a year. Our campaign continues to go above and beyond in our transparency efforts by reporting financial activity online in near real time. The Caldwell for House Finance Tracker (www. caldwellforhouse.com/fundtracker) sets a new precedent in campaign finance transparency that allows anyone to quickly find out where our money is coming from, and where it is going. Recently, the Cherokee County Republican Party adopted our Finance Tracker as well, allowing its members to track party finances.

Legislative Tracker Another transparency tool we launched in 2013 is the Legislative Tracker, a tool that allows someone to find out a legislator’s reasoning behind any vote (www.caldwellforhouse. com/legislative-tracker). Every time I vote at the Capitol, I log the vote into this system, and provide a description of why I voted that way. This gives people an easy and instant means of finding out both how and why their legislator votes. This system already has been adopted by several other state representatives.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Preparing Your Hair for Summer BY TIM TIMMONS

The good news is summer is just around the corner. The bad news is summer is just around the corner. With those steamy months of high humidity fast approaching, it’s time to switch up your haircare. Heat, chlorine, saltwater, UV rays and heat styling are as likely to cause structure damage, split ends and dryness as the effects of winter. I’m not suggesting you skip the pool party, but prepare for it by using products packed with ingredients that will restore, and maintain moisture and balance, so your hair stays silky and shiny, no matter what summer activity you find yourself doing. Straight, curly, thick or fine - no matter what your hair type is, get your summer hair strategy started. Don't wait for the scorching sun to take its toll.

Start Fresh

Sashay into summer with a fresh cut that’s wash-and-wearable. Warm weather is all about easy, breezy, low-maintenance looks that work for any occasion. You will need to get rid of winter stragglers, so cut off those damaged ends ASAP.

Up Your Shine

Prepare your hair for the onslaught of overexposure to UV rays with the help of shine-enhancing products. Bonus points if you use them before you head out into the sunshine. My recommendations are hydrating or silkening shampoos and conditioners, leave-in conditioners and a light leave-in elixir for added shine. 50

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Adapt Your Styling Approach

Don’t overcomplicate things this season. The best kind of warm weather hair is soft, disheveled and lived-in. It’s hair that you can roll out of bed with and head straight to the beach. These breezy styles are synonymous with summer, and you don’t get them by spending too much time over-styling your hair. Stick to updos, braids and beach-babe waves, and avoid overusing your heat tools. It’s too hot and humid for those, anyway. Don’t forget to use a beach spray, sea salt spray or texture spray to capture that fresh off the beach look.

Mask It

Got three minutes to spare? That’s all you need to treat your hair and make a huge difference. Apply a nourishing mask for more hydrated, stronger hair, restored color and a hydrated scalp. That’s a pretty big payoff for such a small effort. For the best results, treat yourself to this once a week and make it a regular beauty ritual. All that sun might be great for your state of mind, but you need to do some prep work to ensure your strands stay healthy and hydrated in the summer heat.

Tim Timmons is the owner of Salon Gloss Woodstock. Tim’s industry experience includes positions as trainer/educator, celebrity stylist and beauty consultant for the Grammys and MTV video music awards.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

ALL

Maintenance Matters

Preparation is Key to Good Memories BY DANNY BRANOM

Before you load up your family and pets this for a road trip in the family vehicle, ask yourself, “Is my vehicle ready?” You are about to make memories for a lifetime; just be sure they are the memories you planned. A family vehicle that is not maintained properly can lead to unpleasant memories. Here are a few things to help you have a fun, uninterrupted road trip.

Change the oil.

The engine oil and filter are the life of your vehicle. I’m often asked: “I will be due for my oil change while I am traveling, should I wait until I get back or have the oil change performed now?” ALWAYS have the oil changed before you leave, and ask your shop to perform a vehicle inspection to make you aware of any potential concerns.

Kick the tires, don’t forget the spare.

If you perform your own maintenance, check your tires for proper inflation and wear. Don’t forget to check your spare tire. If you are loading up the vehicle with family, you will need to adjust tire pressures higher to carry the heavier load. Your owner’s manual will have the correct pressure listed.

rubber blades for tears and nicks, and the metal frame for distortion. A good rule of thumb is to replace your wiper blades once a year, including the one on the rear glass.

Check the fluids.

Make sure the fluids under your vehicle’s fluids hood are at the correct level, and the fluid is in good condition. All fluids become contaminated over time from normal use, and have a service life. Contaminated fluids that are not replaced will shorten the life of the major components they operate, leading to costly repairs that could have been prevented.

Replace lights and bulbs.

Check external lights and replace bulbs that no longer work. Many of today’s vehicles use a type of plastic lens that discolors from exposure to the sun, impacting the correct amount of light it produces. Some of these lenses can be serviced to restore their clarity, while others must be replaced. Finally, if you do not subscribe to a 24-hour emergency road service, now is the time to search for one, and make sure you save the number in your cellphone.

Inspect wiper blades.

This past winter, we experienced a number of snow and heavy frost days. That type of weather can cause damage to your windshield wiper blades. Carefully inspect the

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Danny Branom is owner/operator of Christian Brothers Automotive in Towne Lake. 770-926-4500. www.cbac.com/townelake.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM

The Triangle BY ANN LITREL

Dr. Tom Howick and Ann

Resources Visit

Chattahoochee Nature Center http://www.chattnaturecenter.org

Read

“Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder” by Richard Louv 54

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Cries of a red-shouldered hawk fill the air overhead, and shouts of excited children sound under the trees. I’m seated on a bench to do an interview with Dr. Tom Howick, the youthful, silver-haired director of education at Roswell’s Chattahoochee Nature Center (CNC). Spring is exploding in bloom and birdsong on these 100-plus acres. And, with spring have come the school field trips. Throngs of middle school students happily crowd the picnic area. The Chattahoochee River flickers blue between the trees. “These kids are from Marietta,” Tom explains. “A lot of them live in apartments. For some of them, this is their first experience being in a natural area. “We reach 40,000 kids a year! Connecting kids to nature is what we’re about – and that’s really my mission, too.” I first got to know Tom two years ago, when I enrolled in a yearlong program at CNC to become a certified master naturalist. Tom was a perpetual engine of enthusiasm for every subject, and he recruited a battery of experts from all over Georgia to teach everything from geology to lichen ID, and plant communities to pollinators. He

obviously was well-suited for connecting people with nature. “I was an ADHD kid,” Tom says, now with a doctorate in science education and marine biology. “I grew up outside on the coast of Maine, always playing in the water, catching things, exploring. My learning style is geared to hands-on experiences. This place is about nature education — but it’s a place-based experience. Being on the river is what makes it special. “It’s all about that triangle.” “What triangle?” I ask, knowing it’s probably something I should remember from my naturalist class. Tom puts his hands together to make the triangle. “At the bottom is knowledge – education and awareness of nature. Then, you move up into the next level, love and appreciation for nature.” He indicates the point at the top. “Up here is the nature connection – stewardship. That’s what we’re doing here, making people into stewards of nature.” continued on page 87 Ann is an artist who lives in Towne Lake with her husband Dr. Michael Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.

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Around & About MAY Springs Job Fair is a free event, 2 Holly 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Historic Train

Depot, 164 Hickory Road. Bring copies of your résumé, meet with potential employers and network with fellow job-seekers. Local businesses interested in participating in the fair should contact Donna Sanders at dsanders@hollyspringsga.us.

the Fourth Be With You, 7 p.m. 4 May at the Recreation Center, 7545 Main St., Building 200, Woodstock. Bounce houses, photo booth, food trucks and a movie at dusk. Wear your costume! www.crpa.net.

5 3:30 p.m. at 658 Marietta Highway,

Kentucky Derby Day at the Rock Barn,

Canton. $60 tickets include gourmet food, cocktails, bourbon tasting, silent auction, and hat parade and contest. The event concludes with the crowd watching the Kentucky Derby on big screen TVs. www.rockbarn.org.

Deane W. Evans Memorial Golf Tournament at Bradshaw Farms. Proceeds

go to a scholarship fund for one or more graduating seniors who plan to pursue a career in public safety or do other charitable work in Evans’ memory. For more information, visit www.deanememorial.com. The Latimer Hall arts and crafts show will be held at Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway. Another show is scheduled for June 16. For details, email mainstreetcraftshow@gmail.com. UGA Master Gardener Extension volunteers will present a seminar on Safe Landscaping for Children and Pets at 10 a.m. at the Hickory Flat library, 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton. This class will help you learn which plants to avoid to keep your landscape safe for all members of the family. To register, call 770-721-7803 or e-mail uge1057@uga.edu.

The Cherokee Family Violence Center is sponsoring a polo fundraiser, Galloping Against Violence, at Chukkar Farms in Alpharetta. The afternoon includes food, drinks, polo and a silent auction. Individual event tickets are $50, tables for $400. For more details, visit www.cfvc.org.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Join bestselling author and national radio host Jennifer Fulwiler for the One Beautiful Dream tour 7 p.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Share an evening of inspiration and camaraderie while she shares her secrets to living with purpose and balance as a wife, radio host, author and homeschooling mom of six children. Tickets are $15, for ages 12 and older, younger than 12 are free. Get tickets at OneBeautifulDream.com.

7, 14, 21 Music Mondays In

May, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, bring a picnic lunch, and enjoy the music. A DJ will play music from different decades.

11 for Life

Cherokee County's Relay will be held 6 p.m.midnight at Woodstock High School.

11-13, 18-20

“Angel Street,” a psychological

thriller directed by Christi Whitney. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. All performances will be held at the Downtown Canton Theatre, 171 E. Main St., Canton.

The Swingin’ Medallions 12 will be in concert at 7:30 p.m.

at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, part of the 2018 Summer Concert Series sponsored by Woodstock Parks and Recreation. www.woodstockconcertseries.com. The Woodstock Public Safety Foundation hosts the sixth annual

Hustle for Heroes 5K run/walk

beginning at 7:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. Participants will run side by side with local SWAT teams. Registration is open to men, women and children of all ages. To register, visit www.active. com keyword: Hustle for Heroes, or register at 7 a.m. the day of the race.

COED @ THE CIRCUIT 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock 770.345.0600 www.cherokeega.org

1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC CHK)

First and third Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. First Wednesdays are held at The Circuit, third Wednesdays are held in different Cherokee County cities. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to practice their pitch skills, gain valuable feedback, or belong to a community.

The Lunch Circuit

May 9, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at The Circuit. A monthly exclusive lunch gathering of both aspiring and current entrepreneurs to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee entrepreneurs. An event powered by Fresh Start Cherokee, hosted by Cherokee Office of Economic Development.

Woodstock WordPress Meet-Up

First and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at The Circuit. Local WordPress developers, designers and publishers get together to share knowledge and experience, and to meet other WordPress users in the area. Open to all who love WordPress.

Creative Problem Solvers Meet-Up

First and third Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m., at The Circuit. Join an innovative, diverse community of creative problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, want-repreneurs and innovators dedicated to helping one another work through business challenges. Every other Tuesday, this group meets over doughnuts and coffee to dive deep into real issues from the community and give constructive, supportive feedback and actionable advice.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Around & About

12-13

Rolling Thunder Enterprises and partner, INDIO Trail, announces its 29th annual

Cherokee County Indian Festival and Mother’s Day Powwow, 10 a.m.-6

p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday at Boling Park, 1200 Marietta Highway, Canton. The North Georgia tradition features many activities, including: a Native American dance competition; warriors on horseback; hoop dancers and Aztec dancers; teepees; wigwams and living Indian village and displays; Northern Plains encampment; primitive skills; environmental and wildlife displays; Native American artisans; Save the Horses rescue group; train rides and other activities for children; Mother’s Day Honor Dance. Food is served throughout the day. Free for children age 5 and younger, $5 for ages 6-12, $15 for ages 13 and older.

Idea is 7-9 p.m. at 16 AEastNovel Main Café, inside Audio

Intersection at 210 E. Main St. Six awardwinning authors will read excerpts from their historical fiction novels. From Elizabethan England to the Vietnam War; from the Cherokee Nation to Indian cuisine through the centuries; from escaping slavery to enduring a cheating husband in 1897. Door prizes. Open to the public. Bring your own beer or wine. Sandwiches, salads and wraps will be available.

continued from page 56

kayak, 6:30–9 a.m. 18 atSunrise Rope Mill Park, 690 Olde

Rope Mill Park Road, Woodstock. Price includes a paddle followed by light refreshments. $35 per person. $15 if you bring your own equipment.

& Banjos: A Bluegrass 19 Bacon & Bacon Festival, 11 a.m.-

5 p.m. in downtown Woodstock at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. Admission is $5 at the gate. A portion of the funds will benefit the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation. There will be bluegrass music on the main stage all day, a bacon food festival, with items presented for judging, and a craftsman alley with rustic creations for sale. For more information on the event, sponsorships or vendor applications, contact Jamey Snyder at jsnyder@woodstockga.gov. https://baconandbanjosga.com. UGA Master Gardener Extension volunteers of Cherokee County will present a seminar on Floral Design from the Garden at 10 a.m. at the Senior Services Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. Bring your own container and learn fundamentals of flower arranging from your own garden. To register, call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.

VOLUNTEER AGING COUNCIL LUNCHEONS The $5 luncheons are fundraisers for programs that help the nonprofit meet the needs of less fortunate seniors and veterans in Cherokee County. Bring a friend, coworker or family member with you and enjoy lunch while supporting the seniors and veterans of Cherokee County. All luncheons are held 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. Dine-in or take out available. RSVP the location, so the chefs have a head count.

May 18: Provident Village, 1100 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton June 15: Arbor at BridgeMill, 700 Freedom Blvd., Canton July 20: Benton House, 3385 Trickum Road, Woodstock Aug. 17: Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake, 1962 Eagle Drive, Woodstock Sept. 21: Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton Oct. 19: The Oaks at Towne Lake, 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Nov. 16: Brookdale Neese, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock 58

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

annual Canton 19-20 15th Festival of the Arts,

10 a.m.-5 p.m each day in Brown Park, 270 E. Marietta St., Canton, featuring artist market, serenity garden, Jack Fincher rising artist area, kids zone, food court, beer, wine and entertainment. Admission is free, although a $5 donation per family is suggested.

Memorial Day 5K, hosted by 26 city of Holly Springs to benefit

L.R. Tippens Education Center. 7 a.m. check-in, 8 a.m. start at Holly Springs Elementary. $25 pre-register, $30 day of race. For details, visit www.hollyspringsga.us/memorialday5k.

Sutallee Trace Trail Challenge Trail Run 4.5 and 10.5 mile trail run

benefiting Boy Scout Troop 241 on the Boling Park Etowah Trail System. Rolling terrain along the Etowah River at a family friendly venue. Free kids 10 and under race. http://mountaingoatadventures.com/ sutallee

JUNE Open House and Cookout at 2 Healing Hands Youth Ranch, 114

Addington Lane, Waleska, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hot dogs and hamburgers served at noon. Healing Hands pairs young people with horses in a healing environment, providing opportunities to learn the benefits of healthy relationships, effective communication and leadership skills. 404-662-6898. www.hhyr.org. Serenade Heights’ fourth annual

Motorcycle Benefit Ride for single

mother families begins at 9 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Woodstock. Kickstands up at 10 a.m., all bikes in by 1 p.m. $25 fee includes the ride, lunch, raffle ticket and T-shirt. $10 per passenger. www.serenadeheights.org.

Mill Half Marathon and 10k 9 Rope Trail Run in Woodstock. 6.2- and 13.1-

mile trail run benefiting SORBA Woodstock on the Rope Mill Park Trail System. Rolling terrain along Little River at a family friendly venue. Free kids 10 and under race. http:// mountaingoatadventures.com/ropemillrun.

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#DoYouCU TOWNELAKER | May 2018

RESTAURANT

CUISINE

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS

RESERV.

Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway 770-693-4680

Mexican

open

full bar

Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com

American

open

Chinese

$-$$

open

Soup/Salad/ Sandwiches

open

American Irish

open

full bar

Mexican

$-$$

open

full bar

Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net

Homestyle Cooking

closed

GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com

American/Burgers

open

full bar

yes

Thai/Sushi/ Chinese

open

full bar

JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com

Barbeque

$-$$

open

Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740

American

open

full bar

yes

Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad

$-$$

open

full bar

Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com

Japanese Steak/Sushi

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

yes

Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open full bar Brunch

China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Corner Bistro, 2360 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-1202, cornerbistrotl.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616

Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Townelake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com

Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com

Mexican

open

full bar

LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway Steakhouse no $ $$ open full bar 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com Maple Street Biscuit Co., 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy #160 678-903-2161, maplestreetbiscuits.com

no call ahead seating

Southern

closed

Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com

Pizza/Pasta/

$-$$

open

beer/wine

NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway, 678-426-7004

Pizza/Subs/ Bakery

$-$$

open

Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Chinese/Japanese

$-$$

open

beer/wine

Chinese

$-$$

open

Panera Bread, 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809, panerabread.com Peking & Tokyo, 200 Parkbrooke Drive 770-591-8858, pekingandtokyo.com Song’s Garden, 4451 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-8387, songsgarden.com

Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills Dr., American see ad on pg 37 770-592-9969 The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com

Sunday $ $$ open full bar Brunch

Bar/Grill

$-$$

open

full bar

Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com

Italian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

10+

Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com

Asian

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

full bar

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20

TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING

VOTE DIVINE MAY 22, 2018

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• 30-year Cherokee County resident • Strong history of community service • Dedicated to responsible growth • Committed to public safety and education

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DISTRICT 4 CHEROKEE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TOWNELAKER | May 2018

@ the Library ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, 770-591-1491

Tuesdays

Knit and Crochet at 1 p.m. Let Ms. Darlene help you get started on a knitting or crocheting project. Bring your needles and yarn and be prepared to have fun. No prior knowledge is required.

Wednesdays

Crayons and Conversation at 1 p.m. Drop in to destress and get your creative juices flowing. Socialize over a tabletop game (such as Scrabble or MahJongg) or color a picture. Players and colorers of all skill levels are welcome. Reading Dogs at 4:30 p.m., for children 6 and older. Read to

a nonjudgmental, furry listener who won’t laugh if the reader stumbles or makes a mistake. Children are asked to select their reading material before their scheduled session. Parents can register their child (two weeks in advance) for a 10-15 minute reading session by calling 770-591-1491.

Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org

May 10

Family Art Night at 6:30 p.m. Have fun as a family and create art together. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 12

Lego Club at 3 p.m. There’s a different theme each month. Children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 14

Maker Monday begins at 3:30 p.m. Get creative in the

pop-up maker space with self-directed making, tinkering and STEAM activities. For ages 7-12; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 18

DIY Recipe Holder Clips at 10:30 a.m. Make your own recipe holder clip. Materials are provided.

May 4

Georgia STEM Day at 3:30 p.m. Celebrate Georgia STEM Day at the library. Learn coding basics and play games using Sphero SPRK+ robots. For ages 7-12; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 5

Elm Street Theater: Stories on Stage begins at 10:30 a.m. In partnership with Elm Street Theater in Woodstock, the library presents Stories on Stage: “Fancy Nancy” and “Jack and the Beanstalk.” Free of charge. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Holly Springs residents Drew and Sam get creative at a recent Lego Club event at the Ball Ground Public Library.

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TOWNELAKER | May 2018

@ the Library continued from page 62

May 9

WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock, 770-926-5859

Mondays

Coloring Group, meets at 10 a.m. This group has been meeting every Monday for over a year now; come meet new friends. All materials are provided. For ages 16 and older.

Tuesdays

MahJongg Meetup at 10 a.m. Learn to play American MahJongg, based on the ancient Chinese tile game. Whether you’re just starting out, honing your skills, or an advanced player, this is the group for you. Tuesday Night Tutors at 6 p.m. Join teachers and volunteers from Woodstock Elementary School in the library’s youth department as they help children who are struggling with homework, projects and school assignments. Parents with children participating in Tuesday Night Tutors may take part in an ESL class provided by teachers and volunteers from Woodstock Elementary School.

Thursdays

Sit and Stitch at 10 a.m. Be crafty every Thursday and enjoy the friendship of other creative people.

Fridays

MahJongg Meetup at 1 p.m. Learn to play American

MahJongg, based on the ancient Chinese tile game. Whether you’re just starting out, honing your skills, or an advanced player, this is the group for you.

May 4

Georgia STEM Day: May the Fourth Be With You at 4:30

p.m. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away … we celebrated May the Fourth. Enjoy “Star Wars” fun as you make flying starships, send a droid through an obstacle course, and use the force to levitate objects. Wear a costume and have fun. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Quilting Club Block-of-the-Month Project at 10 a.m. Gather with friends interested in learning to quilt. This program is designed for those interested in trying a new craft, and provides instruction on sewing a different 12-inch block each month. For ages 16 and older. Registration is required call 770-926-5859 to sign up. Toddler STEAM at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy some frozen fun and

create works of art with colorful ice cubes while trying out some fun freezing science. Children must be accompanied by a participating adult.

May 11

American Girl Crafts at 4:30 p.m. Make miniature flip-

flops, sundaes and handbags for your American Girl doll. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 20

Lego Club at 3 p.m. With a different theme each month, children may work alone or in teams to build Lego masterpieces, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. Lego and Duplo are provided. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

May 26

Inklings Writers Critique Group meets at 11 a.m. If you love to write, but need some feedback, join this group to share writings, ideas and feedback.

May 30

Teen Summer Reading Club at 2 p.m. Teens in grades

6-12 are invited to join the Teen Advisory Board for Summer Reading Club. Club meetings will be held at the Woodstock Library every Wednesday, May 30 through July 25.

May 6

Introduction to Acrylic Painting at 3 p.m. This program provides an introduction to painting with acrylics for anyone interested in starting a new hobby. All materials are provided. For ages 16 and older. Registration is required call 770-926-5859 to sign up.

May 8

Book Discussion Group at noon. Enjoy coffee, conversation and a book discussion with new friends. This month’s selection is “Bel Canto” by Ann Patchett. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Visitors from a galaxy far, far away entertained guests at the R.T. Jones Memorial Library’s recent Sequoyah-Con event, a convention with panels, guests and games.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

From left: Ranger Mark Jackson with volunteers Mike Grace, Jimmy Moore and Brenda Grano standing next to a recycling station at Riverside Day Use Area.

Allatoona Lake is Going Green BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Allatoona Lake has taken a vital step toward becoming a "greener" project through the creation of a recycling program founded by Ranger Mark Jackson during the 2016 recreation season. This program began at McKaskey Campground and the Operations Project Management Office, with the intention of building a recycling program for the entire Allatoona Lake Project. Since that time, the program has expanded into two campgrounds, four day-use areas, the Project Office, and the maintenance area. The program already has garnered a tremendous amount of public support, with hopes that the momentum will help the program grow into other campgrounds and day-use areas. In November 2017, the recycling program at Allatoona Lake was able to take a big step forward by joining forces with longtime partner Keep Bartow Beautiful. Together, the two partners were able to enhance collection abilities at McKinney Campground. Campers are being educated about the new program, and the response has been encouraging. Campers are being asked to bag all bottles and cans and drop them in a trailer for recyclables when they leave the campground. Corps volunteers are being utilized to collect aluminum cans and plastic bottles, and take them to the recycling center, where market price is collected for aluminum cans to expand the recycling program. Led by Brenda Grano, the volunteer staff often recycles bottles and cans they have collected from the roadsides, and they put in about 20 hours per week on the recycling 68

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

program. Volunteer hours are expected to rise this summer with the anticipated arrival of several new recycling bins that will be placed in new areas. Recently, Premier Surplus Inc. contributed two 48-gallon steel recycling bins that will be used in the Victoria Day Use Area for collection of plastics and aluminum cans. Victoria Day Use Area is a heavily visited day-use park, and it is hoped that this placement will help reduce the waste production in that area on the lake. The Allatoona Lake Project, with the aid of its dedicated volunteers, has recycled more than 2,000 pounds of plastic, aluminum, cardboard and paper since August of 2017. Now, with the additional partnerships with Premier Surplus Inc. at Victoria Day Use Area, and Keep Bartow Beautiful at McKinney Campground, it is expected that the program will be able to reduce the overall waste production at the Allatoona Lake Project even further, and help keep our lake beautiful for generations to come. For questions concerning Allatoona Lake or the recycling program, please contact the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700, or visit us on the web at www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Recreation/ AllatoonaLake.aspx or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ USACEAllatoonaLake.

Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Middle School Art Exhibit

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM

The Cherokee Arts Center in Canton hosted the school districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s middle school art exhibit, and a reception for the students and their parents last month. The high school show will be open through May 2, with gallery hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, and noon-5 p.m. Saturdays.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

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TOWNELAKER | May 2018

HELPING HANDS

S.O.S. Supporting Our Seniors

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

When it comes to the dignity of our senior citizens, we should never compromise. But, some of the aging population in our county have accepted a less than desirable standard of living. Why is this happening? After spending some time talking with Marcine Johnson, board member and chair of the Volunteer Aging Council in Cherokee County, I learned part of the challenge. “Our seniors won’t ask for help when they need it. A lifetime of selfsufficiency makes it very hard to reach out when things get tough,” Johnson said. Prescriptions costs, medical bills, rent increases and car repairs are just a few things that can cripple an already tight budget. Founded in 2000, the Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) works closely with Cherokee County Senior Services and Homeless Veterans. Their vision is to ensure the safety, security, shelter and sustenance for the seniors of Cherokee County. They address our county’s seniors’ and veterans’ unmet needs by obtaining resources from the community through fundraising and volunteerism.

A photo from the 2016 Last Stop Poker Run fundraiser.

The primary program supported by VAC is Meals on Wheels® − providing nutritional supplement drinks such as Ensure, Boost and Glucerna (for diabetics). The generosity of donors has enabled VAC to expand and add other programs. • Last Stop (Provides funds for emergency needs when seniors and veterans have exhausted all other means of assistance.) • Fan and Heater Drives (Includes A/C window units as needed.) • Building Project and Lifestyle Maintenance (Provides repair and/or improvement of household features that enhance the quality of life for the homebound, frail and struggling.) • Transportation (When CATS is unavailable.) • Senior hygiene Johnson shared the story of one elderly gentleman who was discharged from the hospital with a prescription for drugs that totaled more than $800, which he did not have. Johnson worked with the pharmacy to lower the bill and used the funds from their Last Stop program to cover the prescription. They also pay bills directly for rent, utilities, temporary housing due to homelessness, and for safety equipment like extension grabbers, shower chairs, and installing ramps and bathroom grab bars. There are so many areas where we can help honor and support our seniors.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

A social worker, employed by the Cherokee County Senior Center informed the VAC that a frail elderly senior living on her own was in dire need of some cooling and a lift chair. Pastor Davis, from The City of Covenant Church, and Judy Davila (project leader at the VAC) installed an A/C window unit, and Two Men and a Truck delivered a lift chair on the VAC’s behalf as well. Another senior had a faulty garage door opener that opened the door randomly leaving her home insecure and causing worry. The VAC replaced the garage door opener, helping this senior sleep safe and secure. One way to support projects like these is to attend VAC’s monthly luncheons held the third Friday of every month at various locations around the county, for $5 per person. See page 58 for the schedule of dates and locations. The next fundraising event is the sixth annual Last Stop Poker Run on May 19, which includes a motorcycle ride and show. For information on sponsorship and participation, visit the fundraising events tab on the website. You also can make a taxdeductible donation or find other ways to get involved. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.

Senior Sense

Celebrating Life's Commencements BY DELIA HALVERSON

’Tis the season of commencement. I remember mine many years ago, only we seldom called it commencement. Usually, it was called graduation. Perhaps that was because so many of my peers felt it was actually the ending of something instead of the beginning, which is the only definition that my Oxford Dictionary gives. How many commencements do we go through in our lives? Of course, there is our birth. Then, we commence (or begin) walking and talking – communicating with others. Each school grade might be called a new beginning. Two of my granddaughters will start high school next year, which is certainly a new beginning. My grandson will spend the summer as an architectural intern, another new beginning. And my other granddaughter finishes high school. Now, that’s what we really think of as commencement. But, she will go on to college and search out a career for herself. For high school graduates, we now think of this as a commencement of their adult life. Often, they are away from the watchful eyes of parents, and must make decisions on their own. Once we leave home or college, we have commencements. I recall my first full-time job. Later, I took a position in leadership on the staff of a church. I felt that I’d not been prepared enough in college, but it was a successful beginning.

Parenthood is certainly a time of commencement. We had many doubts as we raised our children, but parents today have those doubts doubled, and then some. Grandparents can be helpful, as long as we don’t expect things to be as they were when we raised our children. Things and life have changed. As I began writing my first book, I knew I was traveling down an unfamiliar road. I knew no other authors who had written the sort of book I was trying to write. Now, after 24 additional books, numerous articles, and Sunday school curriculum, I feel more confident. But, I had to go through the commencement of the first book. Each decade is a commencement. Some of them come easily, and some come with difficulties. I did fine until I hit 80, but I’m trying to find ways to make something new out of each year of my life. You, no doubt, have experienced commencements that I’ve never had. But, finding someone who has shared your experiences is important. That person can give you support and hold your hand, which is the most important encouragement you can receive.

Delia writes books and leads workshops internationally. She and her husband settled in Woodstock after living in eight states. Their children and grandchildren live nearby.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

FAITH

Wisdom Through Believing BY REV. DR. PAUL W. BAUMGARTNER

Wisdom is my middle name. Literally. People often think that is cool when they hear it. I sometimes tease that I have siblings named Justice and Freedom. I don’t. Wisdom was my mother’s maiden name. It’s as simple as that. But, names can have a way of shaping us. As I celebrate my 62nd birthday this month, I’ve been reflecting on my wisdom. Surely, age should bring some. I have a lot of knowledge. I have two graduate degrees: a master of divinity and a doctor of ministry. I’ve studied earnestly to lead Bible studies and write sermons for the past 37 years. I read a lot. I attend all kinds of workshops. I’ve paid attention in life. I know a lot. But, knowledge isn’t wisdom. Wisdom isn’t how much you know, or having all the answers. Wisdom is what you do with what you know, and being comfortable with the questions. Life is full of hard questions. Why is there so much evil in the world? Why do bad things happen in life? Why can’t faithful people disagree and still find the common good? Why do so many claim the title Christian, yet don’t mirror the actions and values of Jesus Christ? Paul is my first name. Throughout my childhood, I was

told that I was named for the Apostle Paul, who said, “Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, God decided, through the foolishness of our proclamation, to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom.” Believing is the real wisdom of my life. The Scriptures tell me that Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is the full revelation of God. God loves us to death, even death on the cross, even when we don’t deserve it. I have faith in the God who would do that for the world. I still ask the questions, but, by faith, I’m comfortable with God having the answers.

The Rev. Dr. Paul Baumgartner has served as senior pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church since January 2004. He can be reached at pastorpaul@gslutheran.org.

Marriage Moments

Don’t Compromise Your Beliefs BY BILL RATLIFF

One of the great axioms that was part of my upbringing was, “Do the right thing!” My grandfather’s understanding of that truth helped mitigate a disaster in his life. He was a faithful man who loved his family dearly. However, there was a moment in his life when he was tempted to compromise his core beliefs. My father told me about that moment when I became an adult. My grandfather was my hero, and my best fan and advocate, which is why my father waited a long time to tell me. My father shared that, when my grandfather retired, he came home and discovered that his wife — my grandmother — was a little different, day in and day out, than he had imagined. She was difficult, demanding and controlling. He had fun with her on trips, but found her tough to deal with at home. He told my father that he loved her, but he was not sure he could take it much longer. He told my father not to be surprised if he divorced her. My father also found my grandmother to be challenging, but was wise in his response. He said he would love and support his father — my grandfather — no matter what, but 74

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

he wanted him to consider seriously what a divorce would do to the family. My grandfather listened and patiently carved out a fresh attitude and approach toward his wife. As a result of his desire to do the right thing, their marriage was saved and our family was spared a lot of heartache. His decision seems to mirror Hebrews 12:1, which states, “seeing we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

Date Your Mate As the pollen clears, it’s a great time to be outside this month. Chattahoochee Nature Center is a short drive from Woodstock, and has a lot to offer. You can see birds, blooms and butterflies. Take a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors.

Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor, certified John Maxwell Life Coach and pastor emeritus of Towne Lake community Church. bratliff@tlcchurch.com.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce

3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 â&#x20AC;˘ www.cherokeechamber.com

EVENT CALENDAR May 3, June 7

Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast: 7 a.m.

May sponsor is Northside Hospital Cherokee. June sponsor is CASS Clinical Med Spa. Breakfast meetings offer current and future chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. Held at the Cherokee County Conference Center, 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton. Register by emailing gini@cherokeechamber.com or online.

May 15

Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., at the

Cherokee County Aquatic Center, 1200 WellStar Way, Canton. Cost: members, $5; future members, $10. Registration due May 11. Register online or email brandy@cherokeechamber.com.

May 16

B.L.A.S.T.T. Workshop, Time Management: Secrets to boosting productivity, reducing stress and improving results, presented by Stephanie Hines, business and marketing coach. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the chamber office. Cost: chamber members, $30; future members, $45. Register online or email brandy@cherokeechamber.com.

May 17

Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED Training 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the chamber office. A

representative from the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services will teach the class. Must be 14 years of age to receive certification. $45. Sponsor is Reinhardt University.

4 RIBBON CUTTINGS/GROUND BREAKING 1. Automated Solutions Consulting Group, Inc. 9876 Main St., Suite 145, Woodstock, GA 30188 770-924-9833 2. Bridals by Madison, LLC 12926 Highway 92, Suite 200, Woodstock 770-283-7861 3. Rainbow Child Care Center 6233 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs 800-905-3276 4. Treetop Residential, LLC - Serenity Project 5790 Holly Springs Parkway, Holly Springs 770-592-2404

Power Hour, 10-11 a.m., for fast-paced networking with fellow business leaders, takes place in the chamber board room. $5 for members, $10 future members, payable at the door, no advance registration required. Sponsor is Cobb EMC.

May 18

Regional Issues Awareness Program, 8-9:30

a.m. at the Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main St., Woodstock. Legislative update by members of the Cherokee County Legislative Delegation. Register online or email Gini@CherokeeChamber.com.

June 11

Chamber Classic Golf Tournament, 7:30 a.m.

registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start. Network with existing and potential clients during this annual golf outing at the BridgeMill Athletic Club. Foursome cost is $600. Sponsors are Northside Hospital Cherokee, Cobb EMC and Georgia Power. TOWNELAKER | May 2018

C herokee P hotography C lub Thanks to everyone who participated in our March competition, Odd Couples, and congratulations to the winners.

Monochromatic:

1st Martin Longstaff "Did You See That"

2nd Mark Mozley "The Tall and the Short of It"

3rd Vicki Sellers "Double Take"

HM Karen Beedle "Sneaking a Smootch"

Digital Projection:

1st Dayle Geroski "Odd Couple 1" 76

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

2nd Eillene Kirk "Book 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 from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.

Color Prints:

1st Eillene Kirk "Fair Weather Friends"

2nd Martin Longstaff "Rusty Couples"

3rd Rick Sapp "Follow Me"

HM Michael Brubaker "Any Topping You Like"

Left, 3rd David Ferguson "Kid's Ride." Above, HM Rick Sapp "Grow Up" TOWNELAKER | May 2018

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING

Casual and Upscale Restaurants

Century House Tavern Modern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Fire Stone see ad on pg 11 Wood-fired 120 Chambers St. Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern 251 E Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com

$$$

open

Full bar

8 persons +

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Sat./Sun. Brunch 10:30-3

$$$

open

Full bar

Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 9550 Main St. Brunch 678-498-8243 11-1:30 Ice Martini & Sushi Bar Tapas/Sushi no 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com

$-$$

open

Full bar

yes

Fri./Sat. only

open

Full bar

yes

open

Full bar

J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse 150 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios 8722 Main St madlifestageandstudios.com

Weekends only

BBQ & Southern Sandwiches

$-$$

open

Beer

Southern

$-$$

$$-$$$$

open

Full bar

Sunday Brunch 10:30-2:30

$$$$

open

Beer/Wine

yes

Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 Brunch puretaqueria.com/woodstock 11-3

open

Full bar

6 persons+

Reel Seafood Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006

Sunday Brunch 10:30-3:30

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

$-$$

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-3

$$-$$$

open

Full bar

Magnolia Thomas Southern 108 Arnold Mill Rd. 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com

Rootstock and Vine 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com

Wine bar Tapas

Salt Factory Pub Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com

American

open

Full bar

English Tea room

closed

yes

Truck & Tap 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com

Variety of Food trucks

$-$$

open

Craft Beer

Sunday Brunch 10-2

$$$

open

Full bar

yes

Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 78

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20 * denotes advertiser

RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Keeping the History of Woodstock Alive of the tracks, and was probably built in 1879, the year railroad Downtown Woodstock has seen construction reached Woodstock. many changes in recent years. The Woodstock Train Depot is the New stores and restaurants have only building located in Woodstock opened, new trails have been that is on the National Register of added, new buildings constructed, Historic Places. events debuted, and more. The next time you are in With all the changes, it can be downtown, enjoying a meal at easy to overlook the history that one of the restaurants, shopping can be discovered in Woodstock. at the stores, or having fun at a A common question we get at festival, keep in mind that you are The original train depot opened in 1912. the Woodstock Visitors Center surrounded by the history that has is who is the most historically important figure from Woodstock. helped shape all that we love about Woodstock. The answer to this question gives us a chance to point out that For those interested in the history of Woodstock, please Woodstock has been home to two Rhodes Scholars: Dean Rusk, consider becoming involved with Preservation Woodstock, Inc. This who served as Secretary of State under presidents John Kennedy organization is dedicated to preserving the history of Woodstock and Lyndon Johnson, and Eugene Booth, an atomic scientist who for future generations. For more information, call 770-924-0406 or was involved with the Manhattan Project and the development visit www.preservationwoodstock.com. of the atomic bomb. It is amazing to think that a small town like Woodstock produced two winners of this prestigious honor! You can see history of Woodstock in the buildings of downtown. The current Woodstock Train Depot, which opened in 1912, now Kyle Bennett is the director of tourism for the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority. He can be reached at is home to the restaurant Freight Kitchen and Tap. The original kbennett@woodstockga.gov. depot sat a few yards north of today's structure on the west side BY KYLE BENNETT

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Elm Street

Be Courageous and Laugh BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON

When we plan shows and events, we always want to link them back to our mission statement: Engage the community with relevant art experiences every day. I could spend a lot of time talking about our mission, and why I believe it is so vital for our community, but, for now, you’ll have to trust me. I do want to remind you about our current season, Season of Courage, and take a look at what’s happening in May. This month, there are several things showing us why courage is important. First, we are getting excitingly close to hosting our summer drama camps. Our summer camps have been going on for years, and the program is really special. Parents are courageous by signing their kid up for his or her first day camp, a bold move when you’re talking about a 5-year-old. Some returning campers already are being courageous with their imagination, and planning out the character that they are going to create while at summer camp. They all will display some courage when they perform at the end of camp. The transformation of these shy kids is a great example of courage, when they perform onstage in front of family and friends. It is something special to watch. Also, we are opening Monty Python’s “Spamalot.” If you aren’t familiar, yes, this is the musical comedy that is lovingly ripped off from the movie “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” Watch for the connection that takes place between these silly knights’ quest to find their grail and the courage they discover within themselves along the way. But, beyond this, we all agree that, sometimes, life is taken too seriously. We hope that, in the midst of a world that is constantly changing, we can encourage our community to sit back and chuckle. Sharing deep meanings and challenging our community is important, but, sometimes, the ability to laugh is important, too. As the song in the show goes, it may be pretty courageous for our community to “always look on the bright side of life.” Whether you’ve been to an Elm Street event before, or this is your first time, we invite you to try something new by signing up for our drama camps or laughing a little (or a lot) by joining us May 4-20, at Monty Python’s “Spamalot.” You may find your grail as well. For more information on upcoming events during the 2018-2019 Season of Journey, visit our website: www.elmstreetarts.org.

Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

MAY 4-20

MAY 4, 5, 11, 18, 19 AT 7:30PM MAY 6, 12, 13, 20 AT 2:00PM Presenting Partner:

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

SUMMER CAMPS Registration Now Open

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

SCHOOL & SPORTS

Where Science Meets Language Arts

Seventh-grade Language Arts teacher Joseph Lemmo recently challenged his students to find a way to use a scientific tool - a dichotomous key - to determine sentence structure. BY SYDNEY BAKER, ANDREA CROCKETT AND ASHLYN FORRESTER

Though dichotomous keys usually are associated with science, they can be used in Language Arts, too. For example, we had to make a dichotomous key about simple, compound, complex and compoundcomplex sentences. A simple sentence is a sentence with one independent clause, or one complete subject and complete predicate. A compound sentence is a sentence with a coordinating conjunction joining two independent clauses. A complex sentence is a sentence with a subordinating conjunction joining one dependent and one independent clause together. In a compound-complex sentence, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mixture of a compound and complex: You have one dependent clause, two independent clauses, a subordinating conjunction, and one coordinating conjunction. So, how do you use the dichotomous key? You must first think of a sentence. Then, read the sentence carefully. When you have read the question, decide if the answer is yes or no. If the answer is yes, follow the yes arrow. If the answer is no, follow the no arrow. The first question: Does the sentence only have one independent clause, but no dependent clause? If the answer is yes, the sentence is simple. If the answer is no, then you will continue on to the next question, and so on. 82

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Mr. Lemmoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students Sydney Baker, Andrea Crockett and Ashlyn Forrester.

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS High School Graduation Schedule Graduation ceremonies for all Cherokee County high schools will be held at First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. The ceremonies will be streamed on www.fbcw. org for family and friends who are unable to attend. These are the times and dates:

May 24 River Ridge High School, 4 p.m. Etowah High School, 8 p.m.

May 25 Creekview High School, 4 p.m. Woodstock High School, 8 p.m.

May 26 Cherokee High School, 9 a.m. Sequoyah High School, 1 p.m.

Hats Off to These Graduates Congratulations to the graduating Pre-K class of Towne Lake Academy North and South campuses, pictured celebrating at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. From left: Jonathan Allen, Preston Dobbs, Jonathan Hawter, Karrington Kube, Mallory Laprad, Dawson Nix, Bently Smith, Ava Grace, Paris Scott, Hannah Lundy, Emma Salsman, Katie Lopez, Amelia Weir, Wynn Vance, Kyler Shirley, Kia Mayer, Calahan Myar, Lily Theriault, Reeves Beggs, Lily Holsinger and William Wilt. Photo by Brittany Weir.

A New Kind of Food Fight Inspired by the TV show “Restaurant Wars,” family and consumer science teacher Leslie Elliott’s recent lesson had E.T. Booth eighth-graders competing over food. Students were divided into two teams, with students each taking on roles within their “restaurant,” such as host, server, cook or dishwasher. Throughout the competition, students learned about food service job skills, such as cleaning and preparing silverware and cookware, good customer service, and kitchen sanitation. Students also mastered how to make salsa from scratch, as well as how to prepare cheese quesadillas for a crowd with limited time. While one team ran the restaurant, students from the other team acted as customers. Students were assigned start-up funds and had to stay within their budget. Elliott said the lesson is the highlight of the quarter for students, as they gain skills and self-confidence while having fun.

The team poses with its championship plaque and trophy. From left: Oliver Godwin, Cooper Peterson, Jaysen Pertz-Moye, Andrew Christofferson, Riley Sears, Malone Pesqueira, Carter Dewitt and Connor Halloran.

A Championship Season

Eighth-graders Anthony Gontz (left) and Morgan Tyler prepare quesadillas.

The fifth-grade boys Cherokee Youth Basketball (CYB) Team No. 1 Boston Bears from Boston Elementary School went undefeated this season and claimed the regional championship title. This is the first regional CYB Championship win for the school in many years. The Bears received a hero’s welcome from their peers after the win, with a parade of cheers as they walked through the halls of Boston Elementary. Coaches Freddy Pesqueira and Eric Godwin, who both have sons on the team, said the boys played with heart all season and they couldn’t be more proud of them. TOWNELAKER | May 2018

YOUR SCHO Electric Eagles Soar to State Congratulations to the Etowah High School Electric Eagles, Cherokee County’s only school robotics team, on their second consecutive trip to the state championships. The team participates in a program known as FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC). FRC is an annual robotics program where high school students design, build, test and compete with 120-pound robots. The Etowah Electric Eagles.

Right on the Mark The Etowah High School Eagle Marksmanship team recently placed fifth at the Region 10 shootout, earning a slot in postseason competition. Senior team captain Jonathan Jenkins led the team with an overall score of 268 with four bull’s eyes, and co-captain Cohen Nunes followed with 263 and seven bull’s eyes. Jacob “Stealth” Lowry registered 244 with four bull’s eyes; Olivia Berry earned 209 and two bull’s eyes and team co-captain Kyle “Lambo” Raffety finished with 198 and two bull’s eyes. Members of Etowah’s marksmanship team, from left: Noah Sherman, Kyle Raffety, Barrett Parks, Jacob Lowry, Cohen Nunes, Jonathan Jenkins and Olivia Berry.

Getting In the Spirit The Atlanta Braves' Heavy Hitters Spirit Team recently visited Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy to celebrate the opening of the 2018 baseball season. The Braves' drumline marched through the halls of the school, accompanied by Blooper the mascot. Chad Robinson, Johnathan Calderon, Cooper McCartney and Max Castillo are ready to chop and cheer on the Braves.

The Braves’ Spirit Team is joined by, from left: Assistant Principal Jillian Nichols, Brady Berenger, Cooper McCartney, Jack McCartney and Principal Joey Moss. 84

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OOL NEWS Science for the Win! More than 500 students from the Cherokee County School District competed in the recent Cherokee County Elementary Science Olympiad. Teams from local schools are now headed to the state competition. Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy team maroon tied for first with Mountain Road Elementary School team red â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a first in the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. Bascomb Elementary team blue placed third. These teams will advance to the Georgia Elementary Science Olympiad on May 12 at Kennesaw State University. Teams participated in 18 events designed to encourage exploration of new and challenging ways of solving problems as part of a team. The events required knowledge of science facts, concepts, processes, skills and applications that are strongly aligned to existing elementary science curriculum standards.

Above, members of the Clark Creek maroon Science Olympiad team.

Left, the Bascomb Elementary blue Science Olympiad team.

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN MARCH

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Everyday Angels continued from page 34

medical team delicately balances his oxygen levels, blood pressure and heart rate until his lungs can function independently. Paula and Neal have not left his side. To know Myles Howard is to love him, but it likely will be much less than he loves you. “I often wonder if his extra chromosome is the love chromosome. He doesn’t seem to even know how not to love. Everyone is special in his sweet eyes. He can find and bring out the good in anyone, and does not see faults or hold grudges,” Neal said. “I believe in miracles. I’d like to ask everyone to pray for just that. A miracle. The kind that defies medical technology. The kind of miracle that makes doctors say, ‘Your prayers and hope were more powerful than our medicine.’” Everyday Angels invites our readers to follow Neal Howard’s public Facebook page for updates on Myles. If you feel led, we will accept gift cards or monetary donations to help offset the high costs associated with his care. Keep up with Myles' progress at https://www.facebook.com/neal. howard.

A Retirement Gender Gap continued from page 38

construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - forbes.com/sites/karastiles/2017/11/01/heres-how-thegender-gap-applies-to-retirement/ [11/1/17] 2 - money.cnn.com/2017/04/04/pf/equal-pay-day-gender-paygap/index.html [4/4/17] 3 - forbes.com/sites/ebauer/2018/03/16/how-should-we-makesocial-security-fairer-for-moms/ [3/16/18]

The Triangle

continued from page 54

I remembered that, on the first day of our class, Tom opened not with a lecture, but with a deliberately slow, quiet group walk through the trees. We left our papers and phones behind and Tom encouraged us to listen. To smell the air. To look up. To feel the air. He had us sit down, each with journal and pen, and asked us to look carefully, to draw what was before us. And to ask questions – to be curious. Why does the leaf come out first as a bud? Why do the forest flowers bloom before the trees? As we finish, I ask Tom if he has a favorite story about any of the children visiting CNC. “My favorite thing is connecting kids to the river. We run a program, Canoemobile, which puts 1,200 kids a year on the river. One day, a girl from Atlanta was getting into her canoe, and she just started crying. It took us a little while to find out what was the matter. Finally, she said, ‘I’m crying because this is the best day of my life. I just never thought I’d get a chance to float on the Chattahoochee River.’” He smiles. “It’s times like that, I know I’m on mission.”

The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.

Meeting May 25 Young Professionals of Woodstock (YPOW) For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

REFERENCE

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org

AME

Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org

Shallowford Free Will Baptist Church 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com

St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org

South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road

Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com

Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

CHURCH OF GOD

BAPTIST

Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Rd, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest Baptist Church 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org

New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org

Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

JEWISH

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

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com

Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org

Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net

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Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com

ROMAN CATHOLIC Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

UNITED METHODIST

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs United Methodist Church 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Rd. Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road Canton, GA 30115 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life

Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572 www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com

Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main Street, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | May 2018

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

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

Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org.

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

Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com.

Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.

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

Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org.

Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org

Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560.

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com.

CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org.

Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com.

Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org.

Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com.

Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services.

Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org.

Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com.

MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org.

Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.

Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org.

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

Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net.

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

North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org.

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

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion, 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Thursdays at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 2-4 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month at Resurrection Anglican Church, 231 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. 954-830-7274. sbr4psp@gmail.com. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org.

Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818. Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-7896158. www.xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/.

VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366.

Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org.

Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412.

Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at Jump Kitchen & Saloon, 1085 Buckhead Crossing, Woodstock 678-882-0915. www.cherokeecounty.gop.

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

Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com.

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900 www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com, www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514.

Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.

RECREATION & HOBBIES

Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com.

Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net.

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com.

South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522.

Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org.

Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336.

Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat.

Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org.

Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org.

Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net.

Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. 770-906-2958.

Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com.

Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first and third Wednesday at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com.

Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com.

Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org.

Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS

Cherokee County Democratic Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 770-345-3489. www.cherokeedemocrats.com.

William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | May 2018

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM

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

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

Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.

It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park.

Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 92

TOWNELAKER | May 2018

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.

Patty Ponder

Katherine Amick

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Jackie Loudin

Carla Caldwell

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Laura Latchford

Denise Griffin

At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your community. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information. Photos by J King Images.

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Advertisers

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

May 2018

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.AnimalAtlanta.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

Merry Mac Dog Training 770-579-3865 www.MerryMacDogTraining.com

Pink Iris Boutique Salon 678-581-9966

Salon Gloss and Spa 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz

Salon & Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

Sassy Paws Pet Boutique 678-275-2126 www.sassypawspb.com

Downtown Buzz 87 770-592-6056 www.mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz

Towne Lake Pet Care 404-907-9778

Towne Lake Business Association www.TLBA.org

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.Debranski.com

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS 9

Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

Kathleen McGillick 770-591-5956 www.KathleenMcGillick.com Limbocker Law 678-401-6836 www.limbockerlawfirm.com

Etowah Towing 770-926-1711

Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com Cherokee Computer Guys 678-889-5900 www.ccrguys.com

CREDIT UNION 37 1

Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org

Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 37 770-926-9260 www.PediatricWoodstockDentist.com

BEAUTY SALON & SPA

EDUCATION Furtah Preparatory School 678-574-6488 www.furtahprep.org

Music Together 678-613-2048 www.musictogether.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES Citadel Professional Services, LLC 73 770-952-6707, www.CitadelWealthCare.com Evolve Bank & Trust Inside Front Andrea Meador, Senior Mortgage Loan Officer Office 770-924-2451, Cell 770-714-9227 www.getevolved.com FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com

Burn Bootcamp 38 706-289-9762 http://Woodstock.burnbootcamp.com R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR

DENTAL

Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.BairdFamilyDentistry.com

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

COMPUTERS

Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail 65 770-592-8102 www.townelakescarwashanddetail.com

élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com 94 TOWNELAKER | May 2018

CHIROPRACTIC

Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 63 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

AUTOMOTIVE

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com

Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.PapasPantry.org Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com

Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630

Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.TowneLakeFamilyDentistry.com

Casey's Painting 678-445-9661 www.caseyspainting.com

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

ClearView window cleaning & pressure washing 770-926-1960 www.ClearViewAtl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.DrFixitPHD.com

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

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

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.MrJunk1.com

PDI Kitchen, Bath & Lighting 770-924-2730 www.relyonpdi.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com

Reliable Heating & Air 770-594-9969 www.ReliableAir.com

LANDSCAPING & PEST CONTROL Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346

Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.LandscapeMattersInc.com

Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710 www.excavationandlandscaping.com

Mosquito Authority 678-212-1451 www.BugsBITE.com

Overstreet Lawn Care 770-861-7272 www.overstreetlawncare.com

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

OPTOMETRIST Eyes on Towne Lake 770-702-5996 www.eyesontownelake.com

Atlanta Gastroenterology Assoc. Woodstock: 770-926-5459 Canton: 678-593-1295 www.atlantagastro.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Wahl Team, The 30 O: 770-517-2150 Cell: 404-428-4262 www.wahlteam.com

Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486, 678-494-0644 www.kurtandsheilateam.com

Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists Woodstock: 770-852-7740 Canton: 678-493-2527 www.CherokeeLungAndSleep.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com

Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-710-9134 www.SolielLaurelCanyon.com

South on Main 770-970-0200 www.jwatlanta.com

Windsong Properties 770-516-3678 www.WindsongLife.com

Basements & Backyards 678-726-8777 www.BasementsandBackyards.com Cruise Planners, Kathy Faisal 678-445-5235

Eagle Watch Golf 404-960-9225 gary.weller@clubcorp.com

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

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 69 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Mastermind Neurotherapy Center 770-857-3434 www.mastermindneurocenter.com Modern Dermatology Atlanta 770-250-7199 www.moderndermatl.com North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

North Georgia Internal Medicine 678-494-4450 www.ngimed.com

North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists 770-926-9229 www.NorthGaOBGYN.com

Northside Cherokee Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (770) 517-6636 northsidecherokeeortho.com

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 28 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com WellStar Health System 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org/mayo

Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com

Darleen Prem Photography 770-354-0675 www.darleenprem.com

Michael Caldwell Cover, 48, 49 678-523-8570 www.caldwellforhouse.com Steve Divine www.ElectSteveDivine.com

Rebekah Gregg Photography 57 678-637-7518 www.rebekahgreggphotography.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD Fire Stone Wood Fired Pizza & Grill 770-926-6778 www.FireStoneRestaurants.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910 smallcakeswoodstock.myshopify.com

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-3014 www.wbu.com/woodstock

SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Tara Daigle 404-925-6351

Etowah Basketball Camp 47 ww.etowaheaglesbasketballcamp.com

Tavern at Towne Lake 770-592-9969 www.tavernattownelake.com

POLITICAL

PHOTOGRAPHY

RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

Arbor at BridgeMill, The 770-285-1475 www.ArborBridgeMill.com

Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

TOWNELAKER | May 2018