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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Contents
48 & 49 On the Cover Broadus Realty Group Photo by J. King Images
May 2019
20
28
36
Features
In Every Issue
Contributors
20 Mother Knows Best!
4 Around Towne
50 Don Akridge
8 Community News
65 Nathan Brandon
ALM friends and family share words of wisdom from their moms.
30 Community Calendar
28 A Special Olympian
The combination of a fun-loving personality and hard work make this swimmer a gold medal athlete.
36 Fido Fest
Woodstock's first Friday Night Live event was pawsitively a success.
Tips for staying safe on the water this summer from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit.
62 Turn Around Kids
45 Ribbon Cuttings
Local ministry has plans for expansion that will provide more children with a loving home.
56 Towne Lake Dining Guide 66 Library Events
39 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists
68 Greenprints Trail Map
28 Leigh Cutrone
70 Rob’s Rescues
58 Greg Fonzeno
80 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
26 Carey Hood 82 Barbara P. Jacoby
86 School News
54 Kurt & Sheila Johnson
90 Clubs & Orgs
44 Harry Johnston
92 Church Listings 94 Directory of Advertisers
60 Ann Litrel 42 Joshua Nelson 22 Merry Quarles 64 Bill Ratliff
Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com
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77 Christopher Brazelton 24 Stacy Brown
Advertising
TowneLakerMagazine
42 Danny Branom
46 Everyday Angels
74 Recent Home Sales
58 Boaters, Be Aware!
14 Celebrations
@Townelaker
62 Susan Schulz 23 Sonny Sellers 52 Elisabeth Stubbs townelakermagazine
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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AROUND TOWNE
The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake
Letter From the Editor The print product is far superior to any other ways of communicating. I say this at the risk of offending social media fans, but it’s my truth. The glory years of a booming Atlanta Journal-Constitution in the 1980s and ’90s certainly provided for our family a satisfying way to make a living, and a dependable salary on which we raised our three children. I was drawn to journalism, as were many others my age, in the 1970s, when being a reporter was a glamorous job. However, I decided reporting wasn’t for me, and focused on graphic design and copy editing. I was a page designer for the St. Petersburg (Florida) Times and Evening Independent when the company was leading the industry, winning awards in newspaper design. A glamorous job in its own right. There’s something so satisfying in holding the printed product, whether it’s a newspaper or magazine. It’s the best ... until you wish you could edit something that is already in print. This, coming from a person who edits her Facebook posts many times before walking away from the computer. Things changed not long after the April issues came out, with my Letter From the Editor extolling the virtues of downsizing, and being able to vacuum the entire house from one electrical outlet. It isn’t official, but, if everything goes as planned, my husband and I will be leaving our ranch home for a two-story house in downtown Woodstock. We should be starting our summer with a new, more active lifestyle, as residents of an established neighborhood in Woodstock that is a leisurely walk from the shops, restaurants and other amenities available downtown. Notice I didn’t say it’s definite? I realize things could go south, and our plans could be derailed. In fact, in many ways, I’m stretching beyond my comfort zone — facing my fears — by writing this, knowing I could be setting myself up for another correction in June. So, stay tuned. Once the boxes are unpacked, I’ll give an update! One downside of the move will be that it puts me a little farther away from my Mom, who is a happy resident of a personal care home in the Free Home community. It’s been a long journey, finding the perfect place for my 95-year-old mother, but worth every step to see how content she is now. On our last visit, she kept wanting to get up and walk — something I haven’t seen her do in more than a year. So, we took a few spins around the living room, stopping now and then to rest. I miss the conversations we had — she has dementia — but am so thankful she’s still with me. One piece of advice I remember she gave me was this: If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all! I hope you enjoy reading other bits of wisdom from other moms on Pages 20-21. Happy Mother’s Day!
What’s Closed Ma Belle Mariee at 1025 Rose Creek
Drive has closed.
What’s Changed Kauffman Tire at 3080 Eagle Drive is now Mavis Discount Tire. 770-592-2454. www.MavisTire.com. Amber Klippel has changed the name of her yoga studio from SPARC to Amber Celeste Yoga & Bodywork. The studio is at 8592 Main St., Woodstock, and offers deep tissue and stretch packages, and private and small group sessions. 770-365-5106, www.getamber.net Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department Director Preston Pooser has accepted a job as parks and recreation director in Deerfield Beach, Florida, a move that takes him closer to his family. His last day on the Woodstock staff was April 12.
What’s Coming Dr. Nick Maasen hopes to open a 100% Chiropractic office at 2990 Eagle Drive, Suite 102, near GAMEDAY Fresh Grill, in either May or June. drnick@100percentdoc.com. www.100percentchiropractic.com. The new three-story Johnston building being constructed at the corner of Main and Mill streets will be home to three restaurants: the family-style Main & Mill Public on the first level, and an adultoriented tapas bar called Lucky Cat, with live music, DJs and games. Plans haven’t been announced for the basement level. The building is designed by Place Maker Design, which did MadLife and Century House Tavern, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, with restaurants opening in the fall and winter. Sixes resident and chef Justin Balmes is owner of the restaurant concepts in this space.
Kudos Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Half the Way Home cat rescue recently received a $20,000 grant from the Petco Foundation. The rescue group was featured in our Rob’s Rescues’ article in March.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.
Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally
published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.
Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.
Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2019. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 1
America’s Community Magazine
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS Inaugural Film Fest an International Event
Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan presents a 2019 Outstanding Women in Leadership award to Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace. Also pictured are Senators Renee Unterman, left, and Freddie Powell Sims, right.
Cherokee County D.A. Receives Honor Cherokee County District Attorney Shannon Wallace recently received a 2019 Outstanding Women in Leadership award. Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan honored 25 outstanding women leaders, including Wallace, during a presentation that celebrated Women’s History Month. “I am honored to be recognized as an outstanding woman leader,” Wallace said. “I am proud to represent Cherokee County among a group of highly accomplished leaders from across our state. While this award honors me, I believe it truly represents all of the great work we accomplish in the district attorney’s office.”
The Historic Canton Theatre will host a four-day film festival May 2326, featuring submitted works from around the world. Of the 73 films received to date, 29 are from other countries, with five from India. The inaugural event is a collaborative effort of co-founders Brent LambertZaffino and Laine Kirby Wood. The festival offers the opportunity to showcase the beautiful and historic theater, to bring high quality and cultural entertainment to Canton, and to raise awareness of Canton as a potential filming location to attending filmmakers. The opening night of the festival will showcase local and national student films made by high school and college students. The genres/ categories chosen to screen are: Narrative Feature, Narrative Short, Documentary, Environmental Documentary and Student Short Films. The co-founders have chosen the Upper Etowah River Alliance (www.EtowahRiver.org) as the beneficiary of a special donation to further important work protecting the Etowah River. The alliance’s mission is to educate and conserve the beauty and health of the Etowah River, from the headwaters to the Cartersville Dam. Coincidentally, many of the environmental documentary films the festival received are highlight water quality issues. Each year, a nonprofit will be chosen and a genre will support the theme. Special presentations at the festival include “Peggy,” which follows a housewife who seems perfect until a birthday party tests her social graces, and “Mercy’s Kennel,” a full-length documentary, filmed over an eight-year period, about Atlanta’s problem of gangs, backyard breeding of pit bulls, dog fighting and the animal rescue efforts to stop the cycle. Tickets are $70 for all-access passes or $15 for day passes. Student Film Night tickets are $5. To purchase tickets, sign up to volunteer, or for more information, visit www.EtowahFilmFestival.com.
Woodstock Police Enjoy New Rides
UGA representative Sam Pardue congratulates Lauren and Cody Bolden for their best confections award.
Sweet Honor for Woodstock Couple Lauren and Cody Bolden, owners of Woodstock’s Pie Bar and Pie Provisions, won the prize for the best confection from the University of Georgia’s 2019 Flavor of Georgia food product contest. The annual contest, conducted by the UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development, is a chance for food businesses to showcase their new products. A team of food industry experts and grocery buyers chose Pie Provisions’ Georgia blueberry pie filling as the best confectionary product in the contest. The berry filling was one of three confection products chosen to compete as finalists from a list of more than 130 entries. 8
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
The Woodstock Police Department has added two Can-Am Police F3 Spyders to its fleet in order to focus on traffic safety. After exhaustive research into various motorcycle options, the department decided to purchase the Spyders, based upon numerous criteria, with officer safety at the top of the list. The Can-Am Spyders give officers the stability of a 3-wheeled riding platform, so they can navigate Woodstock roads while carrying more The new Spyder Police F3. equipment. The inaugural ride was completed April 3, as the new Can-Am Spyders met with the Road Warrior Foundation in North Georgia as they made their way through the state on the foundation’s ride with four wounded veterans. This marks the Woodstock Police Department’s second time participating with the foundation in support of our nation’s wounded veterans. For more information on the Road Warrior Foundation, visit www.roadwarrior.org.
For more information 770-926-9229 NorthGaOBGYN.com 900 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 404, Woodstock, GA 30189
We offer comprehensive services in women’s health. OB/GYN SERVICES & SURGICAL PROCEDURES: • Annual Well-Woman Exams
• HPV Vaccines
• Robotic Hysterectomies
• Fertility Evaluations
• Contraception Management
• Laparoscopic Hysterectomies
• Maternity Care
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Diagnostic Laparoscopy
• Cervical Cancer Screening
• Urinary and Fecal Incontinence
Our experienced and specially trained staff include mid-wife, Shelly Ray, CNM and physician assistant Michelle Clardy, PA-C to meet all of our patients’ needs.
Esther Dorzin MD, MPH
Angela Falany MD, FACOG
Michael Hulse MD, FACOG
Najia Lawrence MD, FACOG TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS
Front row, from left: Bekah Seng, Cherokee; Ethan Lasenyik, Woodstock; Aarya Kothari, River Ridge; Will Dowd, Creekview; Grayson Richards, Creekview; and Emma Parker, Creekview. Middle row, from left: Chair Jessica Helms, R & D Mechanical Services; Kayli Jones, Woodstock; Jack Cody, Creekview; Brinn Dameron, Creekview; Emily Baldwin, Creekview; Will Jones, Creekview; Gabby Christian, Creekview; Abbi Gallagher, Creekview; and Vice-Chair Will Goodwin, Oak Leaf Church. Back row, from left: Ethan Nichols, The King’s Academy; Ivan Shi, Creekview; Aliyah Salame, Etowah; Josh Vickers, Cherokee; Faith Burns, Cherokee; Analise Black, Etowah; and Tori Pitts, Creekview.
Chamber’s Teen Leadership Class Graduates Twenty high school sophomores recently completed the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce 18th annual Teen Leadership Cherokee class. Over the past three months, class members 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 topics such as community involvement, economic and educational responsibility, personal development and team building. The class participated in an ongoing project designed to challenge the students with real-life scenarios that would instill invaluable skills and introduce them to tools in the community that could assist them in many circumstances. www.CherokeeChamber.com.
Community Prostate Cancer Screening The Northside Hospital Cancer Institute is offering a community screening for men, at no cost, to determine their risk for developing prostate cancer. Times are 5:30-8 p.m. May 16 at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute Radiation Oncology — Cherokee, 460 Northside Cherokee Blvd., Suite T10, Canton. Northside offers prostate cancer screenings (PSA blood tests) throughout the year at multiple locations. To be eligible, men must be between ages 45 and 75, and must not have a PSA blood test within the past year or a previous prostate cancer diagnosis. Qualified interpreters will be available free of charge, with advanced requests. Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. Men who have a father, brother or son who has had prostate cancer, and men of African descent, may have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Pre-registration is required. Call 404-531-4444 to make an appointment or get more information. www.northside.com.
Jail Expansion to Be Complete in 2020 The Cherokee County Jail is getting an extra 580 beds with a 110,000-square-foot expansion that should be complete in 2020. The facility currently has 612 beds. The $40-million expansion also will include new special needs housing, an expanded kitchen and laundry capacity, according to Jay Baker, director of communications for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Other improvements will focus on the main lobby, as well as the existing security and video visitation systems. Studio 8 Design Architecture designed the newest addition, and Ajax Building Corp. is doing the construction/building. The six-story tower will be located on a former impound City and county leaders joined sheriff's department representatives for the March parking lot behind the current facility. groundbreaking ceremony. 10
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
You don’t need to be an athlete to have hand problems. Or issues with your joints, hips or knees, for that matter. That’s why the orthopedic specialists within the Northside Cherokee Sports Medicine Network provide comprehensive care based entirely on your needs, no matter your age or athletic level. From the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of injuries to knee and hip replacement, we’ve got you covered. Call 770-517-6636 to find the location near you. Whenever you need us.
CHEROKEE
ORTHOPEDIC TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS
Honoring Girl Scouts Girl Scouts from the Riverwood and Dandelion Service Units attended a recent Woodstock City Council meeting for a meet-and-greet with the mayor and council members. Scouts in attendance also led the Pledge of Allegiance, and heard a Girl Scout proclamation read by Mayor Donnie Henriques. Troops 14601 and 14654 members are, back row from left: Luzaan Snyder, Madison Kimes and Cali Unsworth. Front row: Mia Bustelo, Kyleigh Acree, Haley Adams and Stella Bustelo.
Tournament Raises Scholarship Funds The Towne Lake Business Association recently hosted a golf tournament that raised funds for 12 scholarships, ranging from $500 to $1,000, that will be awarded to seniors from three high schools. Scholarship categories include entrepreneurship, leadership and work-based learning. Among the high schools, Etowah won first place and River Ridge finished second. Etowah High golfers were Brooks Mooney, Jaxon Etter, Brennan Hogan and Ross Carlson.
Outdoor Fitness Equipment Available at Hobgood Jason Wilson, left, and Maurice Taylor, third from left, with members of the adult first-place team: Fred Clark, Greg Brown, Kirk Martin and Wayne Copper.
Jason Wilson, left, and Maurice Taylor, right, with River Ridge High School team members Eric Sabula, Joseph Chontofalsky, Zach Johnson and Chase Travis. 12
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
The Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency (CRPA) has opened a new outdoor adult fitness amenity at Hobgood Park. The addition is part of a grant, in partnership with the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association and Game Time, a playground manufacturer. The structure is located adjacent to the walking track on the Bells Ferry Road side of the park, and features stations that provide cardio, core, balance and strength training for a total body workout. “With the increase in urbanization, recreation agencies are always seeking creative ways to offer outdoor spaces and activities to residents, and this new outdoor component is an ideal option,� said Jordan Wood, parks division director at the CRPA. The agency also is in the process of adding playground and fitness amenities in the northwestern part of the county, with a new Outdoor Challenge Course and Playground under construction at Cherokee Veterans Park. www.crpa.net.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Celebrations!
Corbin
Happy fifth birthday! May all your wishes come true! We love you, big boy! Love, Momma and Matthew.
Happy birthday!
Happy 11th birthday to our sweet baby girl! We are so proud of you and love you very much. Love, Mommy, Daddy and Jack.
Hadley
Happy 12th birthday on May 10! We love you so much, sweet Haddie! Love, Mom, Dad and Walker.
Olivia W. Burns
Congratulations and happy high school graduation! You are beautiful inside and out! We celebrate all of your outstanding academic accomplishments and your loving, kind and thoughtful character. Fly strong in your next chapter! War Eagle! We love you with all our hearts, Mom and Dad.
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Ronan David Seboria
Born Jan. 23 to John and Karen Seboria.
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com June deadline is May 10. Please specify TowneLaker.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Bears Make the Best Buddies The Cherokee County Clerk’s Office recently announced its spring fundraiser, Buddy Bears, to benefit Cherokee County children who are in foster care. New and gently used teddy bears will be collected 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, through July 1, in the lobby of the Justice Center, located at 90 North St., Canton. The bears will be presented to the county’s juvenile court, and will be given to children who come before the citizen review panels. In cooperation with the Georgia Council of Juvenile Court Judges, the Cherokee County Juvenile Court participates in the Permanent Homes for Children program. Citizen volunteers meet monthly to review the case plans developed for children in foster care. This is an opportunity for these volunteers to review cases, track how case plans are progressing, assess how parents are doing with their reunification plans, and ensure the children are receiving the services they need. “The clerk’s office felt that teddy bears could be given to these children to help ease their stress, trauma and anxiety, and would show these children that Cherokee County loves them,” said Chief Deputy Clerk Alexandra Morris. “We are so excited to help bring smiles to these little faces, and we appreciate your support!” From left, Chief Deputy Clerk Alexandra Morris, Deputy Clerk Lindsey Hagen and Clerk of Courts Patty Baker hug some of the bears collected so far.
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Readers’ Choice Awards
Don’t Forget to
Voting for the 2019 Readers’ Choice awards ends at 5 p.m. May 10. If you haven’t voted yet for your favorite Towne Lake businesses, visit www.townelaker.com, click on the Readers’ Choice logo and you’ll be taken to the voting site. Follow the prompts and cast your votes.
Here are a few things to keep in mind. 1. Voting ends at 5 p.m. May 10.
FREE CONCERT
2. Winners will be announced in the June issue.
Nathan Evans Fox
Friday
MAY 31
Businesses will not be notified ahead of time. Everyone will find out at the same time.
3. Vote in as few or as many categories as you’d like.
live at
7:00-10:00 PM No tickets needed. Just show up & have a great time.
400 CHAMBERS ST WOODSTOCK GA 30188
WWW.COPPERCOINWOODSTOCK.COM 18
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
There isn’t a minimum number of votes required for your votes to count.
4. No more than five votes per category will be accepted from each IP address.
Happy voting!
Readers’ Choice Award Readers’ Choice Awards Rea Readers’ Choice Awards
ds aders’ Choice Awards TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Mother Knows Best! Scott Coleman
Community board member “Patsy Coleman, my 83-year-old mom, continues to be one of the wisest people I’ve known. She somehow kept my brothers and I from getting into too much trouble while growing up in Roswell. Among her nuggets of wisdom: • You never know who is watching. • What goes around comes around. • You are known by the company you keep. • Think before you speak.”
Bettie Jolly Sleeth
TowneLaker community board member “Mind Your Manners were words I often heard from my mother, Lorena Butler. Perhaps it meant not being so unruly as those boys that I grew up with, my brother and several male cousins. But I always thought it was more than just etiquette, because of my grandmother, Betty Cox. ‘Miz Betty’ always preached respect, and don’t ‘disrespect’ others, especially teachers. Education was very important to my grandmother, since it was not valued when she was a girl growing up in rural South Alabama. Today, I sometimes still hear those words from my mother and grandmother. Being courteous, minding my manners and respect seem very important in today’s society. It is just a simple way to better understand other people.”
“Because I said so!” These are words we’ve all heard from our moms, at one time or another. It probably was valuable guidance in that moment, even though it wasn’t the nugget of wisdom we expected to hear. This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate the exceptional wisdom moms bring to our lives. Here are some sage words of motherly advice, shared by friends of Aroundabout Local Media.
Beth Fornuto
Photographer “Recently, my 88-year-old mother said not to overlook the blessing of suffering in your marriage and/or family — whether it be financial, spiritual or physical. It is in these times when you become the closest and discover what truly matters in life. My mother has been a widow for over 30 years. Cancer rocked our world when I was just in high school. She said, looking back, she would not wish to change a thing and that the six months of my father's fight to live was the strongest their marriage had ever been. He had also found eternal salvation during that time. She also said to never stop praying for your children. They may have seasons of rebellion and bad decisions, but they will eventually come around, Beth with her mom, Geraldine Kotecki. so just keep praying.”
Jeff Moon
Woodstock city manager “I think the best advice my mom ever gave me was: ‘Always be nice to people you pass as you move up the ladder of success, because you could see them all on the way back down.’”
Sonny Sellers
Pastor of Bascomb United Methodist Church “Best advice from my mom: ‘Don't do something just because everybody else is doing it.’”
Jim Imbriale
Attorney “My mom, Florence Imbriale, always said, ‘Remember to always clean behind your ears!’ This is us before my wedding 12 years ago. She passed three years ago and I sure do really miss her and her wisdom!’”
Tim Cavender Bettie with her mom Lorena Butler on her wedding day. 20
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Florence checks behind Jim’s ears on his wedding day.
Director of public affairs, Cherokee County Fire Department “The best piece of advice that I ever got from my mother was to love unconditionally. My mom loved people, her family and her friends. She always greeted them with a hug and a smile. What a wonderful attribute to have in a mom!”
Laura Mikszan Fitness/Health Coach
Jay baker and mom Ginnie Baker
Jay Baker
Director of communications for the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office
“Keep an open mind and a sense of humor ... utilize both to compassionately serve others. Always use good grammar, and NEVER end a sentence with a preposition!” Laura’s mother, Elizabeth “Betsy” Baker, passed away on Jan. 27. Betsy with daughter Laura and granddaughters Carleigh and Shannon.
“Treat others the way you want to be treated.”
Pam Wood Carnes
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce president and CEO “My mother, Dianne Wood, taught me from a very young age to be mindful of what you do and say, as there is always someone around that knows you or your family. Yes, I did grow up in a small town, yet I find, no matter how large the world around us becomes, there is always someone hearing our words and eyeing our actions. Just last Christmas, my mother gave me a framed message stating, ‘There are always three choices in life: Give Up, Give In, Or Give It All You’ve Got.’ My mother has always given it all she’s got, and I’m proud to have been a part of her journey.”
Cheryl McKay Price Screenwriter
“The best piece of advice my mother gave me was to follow God's will for my life. Even when that meant leaving her and Dad behind in North Carolina as I moved to Los Angeles to pursue writing. She stood firm in her support of my God-given dreams. She's always been my biggest cheerleader in my pursuit of writing faith-based movies. Naturally, she's very thankful we moved to Woodstock and are no longer 3,000 miles away.”
Stacy Brown
Marketing manager, city of Woodstock “My mom has always encouraged me to cherish my relationships. She tells me to enjoy my sons and be grateful for time with them. She does the same thing about my dad, and did the same with my grandparents. It says a lot about what she values. I think that's so wise, because what's more valuable than the people in our lives?!” Stacy and her mom, Elaine Simpson, circa February 1978, at Stacy’s first birthday party.
Donnie Henriques Pam with her mom, Dianne Wood
Woodstock mayor
“My mom always told me that if you arrive for an appointment on time, you were late. Something that has stuck with me to this day.”
Elisabeth Stubbs
Local business owner “My mother was a voracious reader. This philosophy, from a famous book she loved and introduced me to, has served me well in life: ‘Oh, I can't think about this now! I'll go crazy if I do! I'll think about it tomorrow. After all ... tomorrow is another day!’” Elisabeth with mom, Margaret Melton.
Claire Frost
Contributing writer “When I was a brand new mom, and staying home with my daughter, I couldn't understand how anyone ever was able to do this. My mom said, ‘You just need practice. You'll see. All of a sudden, it will be like you grew two new arms.’ As per usual, she was 100% right and, to this day, that's one of my favorite pieces of advice/comfort to offer to new moms … because it's true. No one was born a mother. You learn. You adapt. Your instincts take over and you're doing it.” Claire and her mom Vickie Mabry at Easter in the 1980s. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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A Stepmom's Guide to Mother's Day being your stepkids’ mom. This is the line that never can be crossed. They already have a mom, and blurring that line can cause confusion and conflict. I know one blended family that celebrates Bonus Day in between Mother’s and Father’s days. They spend the day at a water park, have a picnic, and no friends are invited. It’s a day for just them. It is important for you and your new family to create your own traditions, without stepping on ones they created before you came along.
BY MERRY QUARLES
Stepparenting is one of the most challenging things an adult can take on, and, according to recent statistics, one in three Americans is part of a stepfamily. But, when I became a stepmother almost nine years ago, I could find very few people who wanted to talk to me about my new role, and even fewer publications and resources. As a result, most of us use the old “trial and error” approach. Every once in a while I get it right, but I’m Create your own definitely still learning. One Stepmom Day with others Merry and Michael Quarles on their wedding day on Nov. 20, 2010. thing I know for sure: While who share that special title. being a stepmom can be tricky on a normal day, it’s much I have a lot of friends who aren’t stepmoms. But, I have harder on Mother’s Day. learned that it is vital to have people around who also are on Let’s face it, even if you are crushing the stepmom this journey. I need these women to share my stories with, game, and you’ve never made a mistake (I don’t know any to ask advice from, and to encourage me. I have one friend stepmoms like this, but let’s assume they exist), you do this in particular with whom I meet for coffee weekly. So, grab job knowing you will always come in second place. And that’s your special stepmom tribe and go do a paint night or see the way it should be. a movie. If Leslie Knope can create Galentine’s Day, there is Since I have two sons of my own, I’ve always understood nothing stopping you from going to brunch with your favorite that part. I don’t expect or even want my stepsons to stepmoms. And, if you don’t already have at least two celebrate me on Mother’s Day, but it’s perfectly OK to stepmom friends, find them. celebrate the sacrifices and love you pour into children you Treat yourself! Speaking of “Parks and Recreation,” haven’t raised from birth. I choose to follow the advice of Donna and Tom whenever I’m feeling down. Now, your idea of treating Here are some tricks I’ve learned from my stepmom tribe yourself and mine are probably different. Mine actually over the years, to keep this day from becoming one of changes, depending on the situation. But, whether your heartbreak. idea of self-care involves a spa day, a hike in the woods or Talk to your spouse. This may seem like simple advice, exploring a bookstore for the afternoon, this is important but if you’ve ever been a stepparent, you know that for any stepmom. Most of us are so busy navigating the kids, bringing up your spouse’s children is the trickiest of all and their diverging schedules, that we rarely have time to conversations. Most of us say we’re fine, even when we be alone in the bathroom, much less an entire afternoon to aren’t, because we worry we’ll say the wrong thing. Keep the dedicate to something we love. This is the perfect day for you conversation focused on you, and not the children. It’s OK to to celebrate how well you are doing! say, “Sometimes, I feel hurt that …” My husband is great at getting me special cards that celebrate my contribution to his Stepparenting is tough, and watching your hard work be children’s lives. They don’t say “Happy Mother’s Day,” but, ignored can seem like the ultimate slight. But, you have to rather, thank me for being a part of the story. remember that you can write the next chapter of this story.
3.
4.
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Plan an event, outing or special meal with your stepchildren on another day. Blended families are used to shifting dates. If you can celebrate Christmas on the 27th, you can celebrate being a stepmom any day you want, but you need to be very clear that you are not celebrating
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
You can, and should, make the choice to celebrate being a blended family any day you want. The key is to remember that you married someone who truly loves and trusts you enough to allow you to co-parent the most important people in his life. That’s a celebration every day.
A Face Only a Mother Could Love BY SONNY SELLERS
A mother is supposed to love the faces of her children, no matter what. But, love can sometimes mean doing what is best for the child, even if it pains the mother terribly. The Bible calls this kind of sacrificial love agape love, after the sacrificial nature of God’s love in Jesus Christ. This is my story. At age 16, I had to take my birth certificate to school (for some reason, I can’t remember) and, as I looked it over, I saw that my mother’s age was 45 on the day of my birth in 1957. I Sonny with his mom, Louise. had taken enough biology classes to know that if giving birth at 45 years old was risky in 1973, it must have been dangerous in 1957. That afternoon, my perception of who I was changed. I asked my mother if I was an unplanned birth, an adoption, or what? She grew pale, paused for a moment and said, “Would it be so bad if you were adopted?”
I blurted out “No, I’m just curious.” Was it so bad? No! As it turned out, it was the best thing that could have happened. I was raised in a loving home by my aunt and her husband – the best mother and father in the world. At age 21, I finally met my birth mother, and my half-sister, as well, and my family grew larger in love. But “Mother” was the one who raised me, invested in me, poured her life into my life. She may have technically been my Aunt Louise, but she will always be my mother. What about the circumstances that led to my adoption? Was I not a face that even a mother could love? It took some therapy to work through those issues of self-esteem. Even good explanations for adoption (and I heard a good one) can’t take away the need for me to deal with my mother giving me away. But, I was given a shot at life, and thanks to agape love, on the part of my birth mother, a good shot at a good life. And, people to share that love. It may not always work out, like it did for me, but (with apologies to Lin-Manuel Miranda) I pray you won’t “throw away your shot.”
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Woodstock Is for Mothers BY STACY BROWN
My two sons and I love our life here. When my boys, now ages 9 and 11, were babies, we lived in unincorporated Cherokee County, with a Woodstock address near Mountain Park. Then, we lived for a couple of years right in the middle of the city off Trickum Road. Now, we’re in downtown Woodstock, and it’s hard to imagine a place where we would be happier. No matter if you’re on a country road, in a suburban neighborhood, or in a downtown apartment, this community is made for parenting well. One of my goals as a mother is to create a balanced life for my boys, and teach them to find their own balance. Team sports take up a lot of their time and, like a lot of young boys, if left to their own devices, they’d play video games all day every day. Living in Woodstock makes it easy to find a balance, thanks to connections made at family-friendly events, escaping through the abundant access to the outdoors, and inspiration from the vibrant arts community. The list of can’t-miss events goes on and on: Friday Night Live, Summer Concert Series, WDSTK Roots, the July 4th Spectacular, the Discover Woodstock Scavenger Hunt, Woodstock Fire Department open house, WDSTK Roots music nights, Movies in the Park, Police National Night Out, Scarecrow Invasion,
It’s not unusual to see Stacy and her boys biking on local trails.
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Stacy Brown and her sons at Woodstock’s Halloween KidFest.
Halloween KidsFest, Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights, Santa in the visitors center … there’s always an event in Woodstock to look forward to as a family. Making time for outdoor activities is one of my priorities as a mom. Thanks to a trail challenge from Greenprints Alliance a few years ago, we became a biking family. Now, we’ve graduated from casual cycling on the Noonday Creek Trail to mountain biking at Rope Mill and Blankets Creek. And, last summer, we got kayaks and began paddling on Little River and Lake Allatoona. If you don’t have a kayak or paddle board, you can find info on rentals at visitwoodstockga.com and try them out. The arts community in Woodstock is such an asset to parents of creative kids.
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village is a great place for classes and camps. In addition to the regular theater season, there is a family season, with selections appropriate for a younger audience. This year, they have partnered with Next Steps Ministries to create sensory-friendly performances for audience members with a range of special needs, featuring reduced noise, lighting effects, and seating space for a more inclusive experience. My professional passion is destination marketing, and I was born in Virginia. I guess that’s why, when thinking about a title for my column this month, a play on the iconic Virginia Is for Lovers slogan popped in my head and stuck. But, it’s not spin. Woodstock is for mothers. This town is an amazing place to be a mom.
Stacy Brown is the Marketing Manager INWDSTK for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 678-217-2386 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Artists’ Community Grows at Elm Street PHOTOS AND ARTICLE BY CAREY HOOD
A small group of artists and friends gathered at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Center in downtown Woodstock on March 23 to volunteer their time installing artwork from local artisans in the lobby and hallways of the center. Armed with drills, ladders, levels, and lots of coffee, the team set out to hang more than 60 original pieces of art for the public to view and enjoy. As the team installed the artwork, the walls of the arts center were transformed into a museum displaying a fine collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and other local creations. Elm Street patrons recognize what an absolute treasure we have in our town with the quality productions performed by local thespians. Now visitors to the center also will have the chance to support local visual artists and own original pieces of art for their homes. One of the featured artists, Betsy Khuri said, “I would like to send a huge shout out to everyone who is working to create this wonderful sense of community for artists here in Woodstock. I am grateful, thrilled to contribute, and ready to participate.” Executive Director Christopher Brazelton said Elm Street is launching a “creative consortia” to grow this group of local artisans and the work they do to contribute to the community. For more information, visit www.elmstreetarts.org.
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A Very Special Winner BY LEIGH CUTRONE
Meet Brady Abramson. This 37-yearold has been part of the Special Olympics swim team for five years, and Brady doesn't just swim. He also competes on the basketball, bowling and softball teams. He’s an athlete with the medals to prove it. Don't let his easy, fun-loving personality fool you. He is a hard worker and is serious about his pursuits. Brady has been working part-time for 11 years at a job he loves. He is proud of his independence, and the fact that he drives. When I mentioned his parents must be proud of him, he smiled shyly, and told me they were. Brady is a fine example of why Special Olympics is so special. In short, it changes lives, and develops self-confidence, while celebrating differences. The swim team is composed of about 35 athletes who practice at the Cherokee Aquatic Center. Merry Willis, the head swim coach of Special Olympics Cherokee County, is proud of all of “her” swimmers. She clearly makes this group tick. She explained that all Special Olympians must qualify as having an intellectual disability. Athletes are welcomed beginning at age 8, and there is no maximum age limit. This group ranges from ages 8 to 64. I was struck by the friendships I witnessed among the athletes. It is apparent that this group thrives with team camaraderie, and also because of the goals they have set to improve their individual skills, while persevering through obstacles. Volunteers work with the athletes on a one-to-one basis, or in small groups. Why is Brady interested in his Special Olympic sports? When asked, he didn't hesitate to answer. He said he loves to hang out with all his friends and to socialize at the practices. I can confirm that he likes to talk and laugh. He is an inspiration to this group of fine athletes, as well as anyone who is fortunate to meet him. Brady and the swim team began practice in February and 28
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Above, members of the Cherokee County Special Olympics swim team practice at the Aquatic Center. Left, Brady shows off some of his Special Olympic medals.
wrap up this month, with the goal of participating at the Special Olympics Georgia State Games, May 17-19, at Emory University in Atlanta. Brady is excited about the games and his swim relay. We agreed that his team has a good shot at winning the gold. The Special Olympics oath says it all: Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt. In my book, Brady and all of these athletes certainly are winners. For more information about Special Olympics Georgia, visit www.specialolympicsga.org/about/facts.
Leigh Cutrone and her husband live in Woodstock. Leigh’s blog, The Senior Class: Navigating the Golden Years, is geared to retired seniors. seniorclass@yahoo.com.
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Around & About MAY
1
Holly Springs Job Fair is a free event, 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.
Friday Night Live, 6-9 p.m. in downtown Woodstock. Shops 3 and restaurants will be open late, with events and live music, creating a street-party style atmosphere.
The 2019 Canton Main Street First Friday season begins.
The 6-9 p.m. event includes a concert and a classic car display. Retail and food vendors abound. Main Street is closed to car traffic. www.cantonga.gov.
Beds and Container Gardens is the topic of a 4 Raised 10:30 a.m. seminar presented by the UGA Master Gardener
Extension volunteers of Cherokee County. The location will be the Senior Services Center, 1001 Univeter Road, Canton. A plant sale also will be held 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the same location. Plants include sun and shade varieties, succulents, herbs, vegetables, ferns, hostas, bee homes, garden art and more. The demonstration gardens will be open for tours during the sales. To register for the seminar, visit http://cherokeemastergardenersinc.wildapricot.org, call 770-721-7803 or email uge1057@uga.edu.
Greenprints Alliance Trailfest, 2:30-8:30 p.m. at 115 Elm St.,
Woodstock, sponsored by Path & Post Real Estate, is a fundraiser for the Greenprints Trails. The community event is free and includes live music, food trucks, outdoor activities and more. See Trail X 2019 on Facebook for details.
Strut Your Mutt @ Pawtriots Park, 8:30 a.m., Patriots Park, 1484 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth 30102. Cost is $10 per dog. Pre-registration required at www.crpa.net. Dogs must be up to date on all shots. No female dogs in heat. Unruly dogs will be asked to leave. Half of all proceeds will be donated to the Cherokee Animal Shelter. For more information, contact Lindsey Collett, lcollett@cherokeega.com. Holly Springs is participating in the Great American Cleanup, the country's largest community improvement program, which kicks off each spring and engages more than 4 million volunteers in more than 20,000 communities nationwide. The event is set for 9 a.m.-noon. Location to be determined. Watch www.hollyspringsga. us for more information.
Kentucky Derby Day at the Rock Barn, sponsored by the
Cherokee County Historical Society, begins at 3:30 p.m. The Rock Barn is located at 758 Marietta Highway in Canton. Guests will enjoy gourmet food, open bar, silent auction, pony pull betting, bourbon tasting, and a competitive hat parade and contest. The event benefits the society’s education programs and ends with the crowd watching the Kentucky Derby on big screen TVs. www.rockbarn.org/events. 30
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Dragon Boat Festival, hosted by Loving Arms 4 Acworth Cancer Outreach and Dragon Boat Atlanta, at Dallas Landing
Park, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The third annual event will feature Dragon Boat races between various organizations, and will support cancer patients and survivors in the community. For more information, visit www.acworthdragonboatfestival.com.
Canton Festival of the Arts, produced by the 4-5 Cherokee Arts Center, will take place in Brown Park
in downtown Canton. The festival, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is the primary fundraiser of the center, which is dedicated to enriching community life through the arts. The festival features the Artist Market, Serenity Garden, Jack Fincher Jr. Rising Artist Area, Kids Zone and Food Court. For more information, visit www.CantonArtFestival.com.
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Story time for girls who want to learn how Juliette Gordon Low founded Girl Scouts, and experience a Daisy Girl Scout activity led by girls for girls. Parents will have a chance to ask questions. Learn about opportunities to join a Daisy Girl Scout Troop and make new friends before school starts in the fall. May 4: 1:30-3:30 p.m. at G. Cecil Pruett YMCA/Community Room B, 151 Waleska St., Canton. May 18: 10 a.m. - noon at Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. Contact is Sherry Saunders at 404-293-3511 or ssaunders@gsgatl.org.
Mondays are 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 6, 13, 20 Music at the Northside Hospital Cherokee
Amphitheater. For more details, visit www.woodstockga.gov and click on the special events tab.
6 tournament
The 19th annual Feed My Lambs classic golf will take place 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Marietta Country Club. Feed My Lambs provides free Christian preschools in impoverished communities, including a school in Canton. www.feedmylambs.net.
Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, hosted by 10-11 the Rotary Club of North Cobb, in partnership with
the city of Acworth, at Acworth Beach at Cauble Park. Admission is free. The 10th annual charity barbecue competition will feature food, family entertainment and live performances. Smoke on the Lake is presented in association with the Georgia Barbecue Association. All net proceeds from the event will go directly to charity. For more information, visit www.smokeonthelake.org.
Canton Farmers Market opens for the season, 11 The which runs through Oct. 12, at Cannon Park. Hours are 9
a.m.-1 p.m. All produce is Georgia-grown and mostly organic. On Facebook at Canton GA Farmers Market.
Georgia Trail of Tears Association meeting begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Bartow County Extension Office, 320 W. Cherokee Ave. #112, Cartersville. Free and open to the public. Former Funk Heritage Museum Director, Dr. Joseph Kitchen, will talk about "The Native People of Georgia and Their History."
continued on page 32
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Around & About
DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK
continued from page 30
Summer Concert Series
MAY
11-12 Powwow and Indian Festival
The 30th annual Cherokee County Mother’s Day at Boling Park in Canton, featuring Native American dance competition, honor dance for Chipa Wolfe, and Mother's Day honor dance; Native American cuisine, arts and crafts, jewelry, and clothing; living village and displays; environmental and wildlife displays; children’s activities and more. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and younger, and free for ages 5 and younger. The grand entry takes place at 1 p.m. each day.
7:30 p.m. Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater www.woodstockconcertseries.com
May 11: Mark Wills June 8: Better Than Ezra July 13: B.B. King Blues Band featuring Michael Lee Aug. 10: Little River Band
Music Mondays
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MUST Ministries Charity Golf Tournament will take place at Woodmont Country Club, 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton. www.mustministries.org.
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The 26th annual United Methodist golf outing will take place at Bent Tree Golf Course in Jasper. The event is a fundraiser for scholarships made available to United Methodist students. www.reinhardt.edu/umcgolf.
Roots Music Nights begin with a 7 p.m. show on May 16 WDSTK 16 with Andrea Colburn. The Muckers will perform on June 20,
11 a.m. - 1 p.m., at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. A disc jockey will provide music from different decades. For more information, contact Jamey Snyder at jsnyder@woodstockga.gov.
May 6: Groovy, man... 1960s May 13: Can you dig it? 1970s May 20: Totally Rad! 1980s
followed by Pony League on July 18, and Reverend Hylton on Aug. 15. Concerts at the Elm Street Event Green, 113 Elm St., Woodstock.
about Girl Scouts for girls in middle and high 18 Learn school during the 2019-20 school year, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the
Woodstock library, 7735 Main St. Learn about outdoor adventure, leadership opportunities, community service, awards, and sorority sisterhood with a Gamma Gamma Sigma chapter. Presented by girls, volunteers and Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta staff members. Contact is Sherry Saunders at 404-293-3511 or ssaunders@gsgatl.org.
Bacon & Banjos is set for 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. The annual festival, which benefits the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation, is a convergence of the salty goodness of bacon and the downhome sounds of bluegrass music. www.baconandbanjosga.com.
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The fourth annual Galloping Against Violence fundraiser for the Cherokee Family Violence Center will take place 1-5 p.m. at Chukkar Farm Polo Club, 1140 Liberty Grove Road, Alpharetta. The event will include an unlimited buffet, wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks. The festivities include a polo match, a silent auction, music, games and contests. Individual tickets are $50 each. www.cfvc.org/events.
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The inaugural Etowah Film Festival will take place at the Historic Canton Theatre. The international event includes a Friday evening filmmaker’s reception, Sunday morning patron brunch, and screenings through the four days of the films, which will be entered to win in the following categories: best documentary (short or feature), best environmental subject (short or feature), best narrative short, best narrative feature, and best student short. www.EtowahFilmFestival.com.
Day ceremony begins at 10 a.m. at The Park 27 atA Memorial City Center. For more details, visit www.woodstockga.gov. 32
continued on page 34 TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Movies in the Park Held at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. No charge. Bring chairs, blankets and bug spray. georgiamoviesinthepark.com/woodstock
May 25: "The Incredibles 2” (PG) 8:45 p.m. June 15: “How to Train Your Dragon:
The Hidden World” (PG) 8:55 p.m.
July 20: “Captain Marvel” (PG-13) 8:55 p.m.
Elm Street Theater www.elmstreetarts.org
May 10 iThink Improv Troupe Show at 8 p.m. Tickle your
funny bone and spend your Friday night with an Improv Comedy show fit for the entire family!
May 16 Brew HaHa at Reformation Brewery, 7-8 p.m. Belly
laughs plus beer on tap with iThink Improv Troupe every third Thursday. Join the local performers for improv games and loosen up those go with the flow vibes, plus 20% off your favorite pours all evening.
Lantern Series Elm Street Cultural Arts Center’s Event Green, 113 Elm St. 7:30 p.m., www.elmstreetarts.org/lantern-series/
May 18: Huntertones, Jazz Brass, New York June 1: Violet Bell, Americana, Asheville, North Carolina June 22: The Lee Boys, Sacred Steel, Miami July 27: House of Waters, World, Senegal Aug. 17: The Lone Bellow, Alt. Indie Country, Nashville
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Around & About
continued from page 32
JUNE Volunteer Aging Council Poker Run is a fundraiser to benefit senior 1 citizens and senior veterans. 9 a.m. registration, kickstands up at 10 a.m., last bike in at 1 p.m. Starts and ends at the Lotus Adult Day Center, 4595 Towne Lake Parkway. For details, email info@vac-cherokeega.org.
1-2
The Cherokee Chorale will perform “Days of Wine and Roses” 5 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Canton First United Methodist Church, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Scott Martin is the conductor. For ticket information, visit www.cherokeechorale.org.
FORE Charity, sponsored by the BridgeMill Sixes Service League, 7 Golf begins with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. at BridgeMill Athletic Club. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. More details available at www.bsslgolf.org.
annual Memorial Day Dinner Tribute: Sacrifices Made, 8 Second to honor fallen military members. First Baptist Church Woodstock,
11905 Highway 92, Woodstock, in the Wearhouse location on the campus. This potluck dinner is for veterans, active duty military and non-veterans. 678-494-2680. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org.
Assault on Garland Mountain 10k and half-marathon trail run at Garland Mountain Horse and Hike Trails in Waleska. Shirt and surprise swag item for all runners. Free quarter-mile race for children 10 and younger. Fundraiser for Friends of Garland Mountain Trails.
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Service League of Cherokee County’s Golfing Fore! The Children Golf Tournament at Woodmont Golf Club, 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton. Registration 8 a.m., with a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. All proceeds will go to help children in need in Cherokee County. For sponsorship information, please email serviceleaguesponsors@gmail.com. To register, visit www.serviceleague.net.
18 Time History Program, will be presented by Bob Lipscomb at 7 p.m. Salvaging History: Sardis Baptist Church Minutes, a Topics in
at the Rock Barn, 658 Marietta Highway, Canton 30114. The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
IN WDSTK ONGOING www.inwdstk.org
INFluence
Meets the last Friday of each month at 8 a.m. Breakfast is served. The event includes a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by greater Woodstock or Cherokee County officials on important issues or services offered that affect the community. www.inwdstk.org.
Small Town Creatives (STC)
STC is for creative professionals (designers and makers), and alternates between a morning event and an evening event every other month. The morning events are the third Friday and the evening events are the fourth Tuesday. www.inwdstk.org.
YPOW AM
Young Professionals of Woodstock meet 7-8:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Copper Coin. www.inwdstk.org. 34
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
COED @ THE CIRCUIT 1 Innovation Way, Woodstock. 770-345-0600 www.cherokeega.org www.facebook.com/ cherokeeofficeofeconomicdevelopment
1 Million Cups Cherokee (1MC CHK)
First and third Wednesdays, 9-10 a.m. First Wednesdays are held at The Circuit, third Wednesdays are held in different Cherokee County cities. The free, biweekly coffee gathering helps build startup communities on a grassroots level. Perfect for entrepreneurs looking to practice their pitch skills, gain valuable feedback, or belong to a community.
The Lunch Circuit
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second Wednesdays. A monthly exclusive lunch gathering of aspiring and current entrepreneurs to eat, build community and learn the stories behind successful Cherokee entrepreneurs.
Woodstock WordPress Meet-Up First and third Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Local WordPress developers, designers and publishers get together to share knowledge and experience, and to meet other WordPress users in the area.
Entrepreneurship 101 Book Club Every other Wednesday, 6:30-7:30 p.m. This new meet-up is a partnership with Creative Muscle Studios.
Creative Problem Solvers Meet-Up
First and third Tuesdays, 7-8:30 a.m. Join an innovative, diverse community of creative problemsolvers, entrepreneurs, “want-repreneurs” and innovators dedicated to helping one another work through business challenges.
OTP and Greater Cherokee Tech Pros
Every third Thursday, 7:30-8:45 a.m. A gathering of local technology professionals.
Women Entrepreneurs Meet-Up
Every third Friday, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. For aspiring and current female entrepreneurs who want to take action and hold one another accountable for stated goals. NOT a lead exchange or referral networking program.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Contestants line up for the costume contest.
Friday Night Live Goes to the Dogs
Mia was the costume contest winner with her UPS driver outfit.
At age 15, Hershey stills enjoys a good party.
Nixon shows off his best high-five in the talent contest. 36
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Downtown Woodstock kicked off its 2019 Friday Night Live season with Fido Fest, a fun evening celebrating the city’s canines and their owners. The event included doggie costume and talent contests. To capture the fun, we put our roving rover reporter, Teddy the Spaz Man, on the job. When he wasn’t chasing cute little she-dogs, he was meeting folks and helping us get these photos of the festivities.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF TEDDY THE SPAZ MAN.
Teddy has his press pass and is ready to put his reporting skills to work.
Sophie soaks up sun in the park.
Rosie Cody the maltipoo struts her stuff during the talent contest.
Puppy parents Randi and Chris with their fur baby Sarge.
Members of Elm Street’s “Bright Star” cast provided entertainment.
Stacy and Cam brought along their dogs Penny Rose and Zorro James. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Friday Night Live
continued from page 37
Chipper the Golden and Joey the Corgi enjoy people watching.
Rocky is a rescue and former prison dog, who used to spend 12 hours a day with inmates.
Teddy is all tuckered out. 38
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A boy, Brett, and his dog, Bud.
Emily and Amy with their lab Tommy.
Otis the golden retriever is only 7 months old, and mighty handsome.
Candy, left, and her boyfriend Pedro, enjoy a night out on the town.
Premature Twins: An Emotional Roller Coaster “After I got settled, the contractions finally stopped, and they let me go home.“ Jourdan made it to 33 weeks. Early this year, Jourdan And that’s when she had her boys. Adams and her family were She was admitted to the named the March of Dimes hospital for a C-section at 7 p.m., Ambassador in Cherokee and, by 9 p.m., her twins were County’s March for Babies born. “I had two separate NICU 2019. She calmly described teams doing a full evaluation. My her high risk pregnancy, the first baby, Briar, had to be put early delivery of her tiny twin on a CPAP (a device providing boys, and the weeks of special continuous positive airway care they received in the pressure), because his lungs Northside Hospital Cherokee weren’t fully developed. But, my Neo-Intensive Care Unit (NICU). second baby, Wyatt, was fine. And The emotional ups and downs will sound familiar to any Jourdan Adams with twins Briar and Wyatt. Photo by Two Little Feet he was the smaller one!” The boys were taken to the mother who has given birth to Photography. NICU. Briar would be on the CPAP for more than two weeks. a premature baby. When asked how she handled the waiting period, before the “The pregnancy was good – up until about 22 weeks. That boys could come home, Jourdan said, “I stayed in the hospital, as was the first time I had to go to the hospital,” Jourdan said. long as I could. I was anticipating that day, having to leave them. She and her husband, Tyler, had been trying to get pregnant, I had tried to prepare myself for it, but nothing in the world can so when Jourdan’s home pregnancy test read positive, she prepare you for going home without your children. went to the obstetrician right away. Her choice of a doctor was “Luckily, we only live 5 minutes from Northside Cherokee, so simpler than it is for many women. As a medical assistant for an we were there every single day, all day long. We got there every OB-GYN practice, she made an appointment with the physician morning and only left for lunch. The boys had feeding tubes for the with whom she had worked closely during the past few years. first week and a half, and we wanted to hold them while they were Jourdan said that early in the pregnancy, she had a small being fed, so they would associate food with Mommy and Daddy. bleed, which, she quickly added, is “not unusual.” But, at 22 And after that we were working on bottles. weeks the real trouble started. Early contractions led to bedrest. “The boys had their own room, so it was really nice. We could At her 27-week appointment, there was more trouble. “I kind of spread out. It was a blessing that we were in Cherokee was dilated, my cervix was shrinking. Dr. Peahen Gandhi sent County. But it was still exhausting to be there all day long, and me to the hospital. The monitors showed I was having regular recovering from surgery. It takes an emotional toil.” contractions. They gave me terbutaline, then magnesium, but Jourdan smiled, with her healthy twin boys beside her, “It is hard, the contractions continued. Dr. Gandhi had to send me by so hard, but they DO come home!” ambulance to Northside Atlanta. PROVIDED BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Aerial view of Main Street during the event.
Acworth Art Fest
Deanna Nafus shows off her fancy face painting.
Fun for the whole family with Nathan, Mackenzie and Tonya Morgan.
Above, Riley Stevens holds on to the bucking bulldog. Right, the Shivers family at the Acworth Art Fest. 40
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Artisan booths, street vendors and inflatables took over Main Street for the 2019 Acworth Art Fest on April 6-7. Booths featured paintings, drawings, pottery, metalwork, jewelry, folk art, home decor, yard art and more. A Kidz Zone in Frana Brown park offered face painting, sand art and other crafts for the younger festival-goers.
PHOTOS BY ED SELBY.
Parker Lowe and his mom, Lisa, pack colorful sand to make personal works of art.
Suzy Hogle and Deborah Hatchet with First Glass.
Susan Gall and Linda Harper check the ceramic work of Don Rank.
Jessica Shivers looks at a sign that says, “What happens at Grandma’s, stays at Grandma’s.”
Above, Main Street was packed during the Art Fest. Left, Mika Garcia with Royce, a black palm cockatoo. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Legal Planning for Your High School Graduate BY JOSHUA NELSON
One of the most exciting times in a young adult’s life is heading out on their own after graduating from high school. For most graduates, and their parents, estate planning is probably the last thing on their minds. Most graduates do not have much in the way of assets to protect, so why would they need an estate plan? The often overlooked, and scary, answer: Once your child turns 18, he or she is considered an adult in the eyes of the law, and a lot of the rights we have as parents go away. With adulthood, comes certain privacy rights and independence under the law. It is vital to have a candid conversation with your college student prior to dropping them off at school. Without the proper directives in place, you may find, as the parent or person paying tuition, that you can’t access information, or help your child in ways you thought you could. Try to decide in advance how much information, such as grades, finances and health records, you will be able to access. Here are two basic, yet critical, estate-planning documents to complete before your child is college-bound.
Healthcare power of attorney/advance directive with HIPAA provision.
When a child is away at school and falls ill, or needs medical attention (including mental health), most parents assume that they will be contacted, and will have all the rights and responsibilities to direct care. You may be surprised to know that an 18-year-old is protected under federal HIPAA law (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). This means medical professionals will require a release signed by the child — or worse, a court order – before sharing health care information or records with a parent. Waiting until a medical event occurs, when a child may be incapacitated, even temporarily, is too late. In the absence of such an authorization or release, parents will find themselves unable
to act on a child’s behalf, and court intervention is required. This is no time to be burdened by the cost and bureaucracy of our legal system when, literally, every minute counts. In the absence of a healthcare power of attorney and advance directive with HIPAA provision, a parent would have to file a petition to be named their child’s legal guardian. A healthcare power of attorney/advance directive with a HIPAA provision appoints an agent or agents to make health care decisions on a child’s behalf. It also offers direction from the adult child about the decisions they would like their agent to make. Each school also may have its own form of medical release papers. While school releases are not a substitute for healthcare directives, signing them in advance may speed the process in assisting your child with health-care matters. Consult your child’s university health services website for this information.
General durable power of attorney.
This document is similar to the healthcare power of attorney, in that it appoints an agent or agents to make decisions on behalf of a child. However, this document relates to financial matters. This may include granting the agent(s) access to bank accounts, school scholarship funds, rental agreements, insurance matters (auto and health) or other similar issues. While most parents are actively involved in the care and responsibility of their college-age children, there are real-world implications associated with children reaching the age of 18. Advance preparation can reduce greatly any potential legal hurdles. Planning with your kids might seem awkward at first, but broaching the subject acknowledges their new-found adulthood, and reinforces their independence.
Joshua Nelson is an elder care law attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 900, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA, 30189. www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.
Inspect and Replace Your Vehicle’s Cabin Filter BY DANNY BRANOM
If you own a car or light truck that is 10 years old or newer, more than likely it came equipped from the manufacturer with a cabin air filter. Your owner’s manual will help you determine if your vehicle has one, or possibly more, cabin air filters. In addition, the manual will indicate the manufacturer’s mileage interval at which the filter(s) should be inspected or replaced. A cabin air filter is designed to filter the outside air that is brought into the interior of your vehicle. When you operate your vehicle’s climate control system (heating or cooling), the vehicle’s system brings outside air inside the vehicle through what’s commonly called the heater box. When this air first enters, it is channeled through the cabin air filter. This cabin filter is designed to capture foreign objects before they can enter the cabin’s interior and evaporator core. Most manufacturers recommend checking and replacing the cabin filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Depending on the manufacturer and trim level, your vehicle may be equipped with more than one 42
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
filter. If your vehicle has heated and cooled seats, they probably have their own set of filters. Again, check your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle is equipped. If you don’t replace the filter, it will be like trying to run a vacuum cleaner that needs to be emptied; the interior fan speed will have diminished flow. This means all the dirt, dust, pollen, mold and unpleasant odors the filter has collected since it was last changed are blown into the air inside the vehicle. Additionally, the contamination can lead to build-up on the vehicle’s evaporator core, which will require cleaning to restore proper interior heating and cooling. Please use a quality filter, and not the cheapest. Remember, you get what you pay for.
Danny Branom is owner/operator of Christian Brothers Automotive in Towne Lake. 770-926-4500. www.cbac.com/townelake.
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Call 404-459-1900 for an appointment with Dr. Gerald A. Feuer in Atlanta & Marietta.
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900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189
Call 770-721-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Michelle A. Glasgow in Canton & Towne Lake.
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Managing Growth in West Cherokee County Lack of sewers has been a factor holding back development there. Sewers should respond to the demand, West Cherokee County, north of Lake Allatoona, is largely and shouldn’t be used as a tool to promote or block undeveloped. The county’s land-use plan calls for low-impact development. There’s demand for sewers in west Cherokee development across most of it. The state plans to start widening now, from Waleska, Lake Arrowhead and others. A revival Highway 20 west of Canton within the next 10 years, but, overall, of Canton West will create more. The bottom line is, sewers road plans in that area are only designed to support low-intensity inevitably will come to that area. development. I hope that’s realistic. If not, we Of course, sewers have many could face an unplanned growth problem like benefits. They allow quality commercial A majority of we have in southeast Cherokee. development that otherwise can’t About 12 years ago, two huge county and city exist, as well as compact residential developments in west Cherokee County were development in appropriate areas. More proposed, and nearly approved. Canton West leadership remains importantly, for a growing regional was proposed on about 2,300 acres west committed to population, sewers return treated waste of Canton. Part of it stretched to Highway water to the river, so it can be used again responsible, 108. Part of it was planned to be in the city downstream. of Canton, the other in unincorporated restrained growth. Will the availability of sewers spawn Cherokee County. Another development, a rush of development that we can’t or A Village in the Forest, was proposed on won’t control, resulting in high-impact 5,000 acres on Highway 20 at the Bartow County line. Between development that overwhelms the current infrastructure? them, these projects would have added about 18,000 homes, Are we facing another Hickory Flat scenario? Or, will we, or about 40,000 people. Neither project conformed to the and future leadership, have the will and strength to keep county’s land-use plan, but, at the time, both were approved development mostly low-impact? Those are the questions by the Atlanta Regional Commission. Both failed to get local that keep me awake at night. approval, since city and county administrations had shifted As always, I welcome your comments at hjohnston@ from pro-growth to slower-growth majorities. Then, the real cherokeega.com. estate crash of 2008 took the properties out of play. Now, they’re looming on the horizon, again. Both properties are up for sale and development. A majority of county and city leadership remains committed to Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board responsible, restrained growth. But, property owners are of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting legally entitled to a reasonable economic use of their manager, and a former district commissioner. property. So, what’s reasonable? BY HARRY JOHNSTON
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce 3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Woodstock Furniture Outlet Distribution Center 6050 Old Alabama Road, Acworth
People Connector 2016 Woodside Park Drive, Woodstock 678-494-6688
EVENT CALENDAR May 2, June 6
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast, 7 a.m. breakfast
meetings offer current and future Chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. May sponsor is Northside Hospital Cherokee. June sponsor is Piedmont Mountainside Hospital.
May 14
Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Presented by AT&T at Canton Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics 1425 Riverstone Parkway, Suite 200, Canton.
Better Banking. Better Benefits. Better Believe It.
Same Great Credit Union. Fresh New Look. Visit Us In Towne Lake 3048 Eagle Drive, Woodstock
May 17
Regional Issues Awareness Program at The Chambers at
City Center, 8534 Main St., Woodstock. Legislative update by members of the Cherokee County legislative delegation.
May 21
Power Hour, 10-11 a.m. Networking with fellow business owners.
May 22
B.L.A.S.T.T. workshop, 9-11 a.m. Rules of proper business etiquette and protocol, presented by Dawn Stastny of the Stellaris Group.
May 23
Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED Training, 9 a.m.-
12:30 p.m. A representative from Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services will teach the class. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. $45.
www.CUofGA.org
#DoYouCU TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.
The brave families we feature each month bless us in so many ways. They remind us of what truly matters in this busy and complex world. We are honored to serve as a conduit between these families and our neighbors with compassionate hearts in our community. This month, we share a letter from the Donley family, who, over the years, has been an inspiration and reminder of what selfless love is all about. Please continue to pray for strength and peace for their family.
W
Savannah Donley
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
e were so blessed that our daughter, Savannah Donley, was featured by Everyday Angels in the October 2018 edition. The outpouring of love and support from this community was overwhelming. Savannah fought hard and we were able to have seven months at home with her after her 78-day hospital stay. She improved so much, gained so much strength and was able to enjoy her time at home with family and friends as well as return to Next Step Ministries one day each week. She loved being in the car and visiting her favorite stores and restaurants around Towne. Her care became routine rather than scary as her health improved. We were able to focus on meeting her needs as well as those of our family as we struggled to adapt to our new normal through the financial support we have received. We have no doubt that God placed us in this community 27 years ago for this exact time. Thank you to those who have loved, cared for and prayed for Savannah over the years. A special thank you to those who have been supporting us since she first became sick last Mother’s Day. Savannah was unexpectedly called home to be with Jesus on Feb. 22. Our hearts are broken and our home is not quite as bright, but we feel loved and cared for and have not been in need of anything because of the outpouring of love from this community. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and God bless each of you. Savannah was all about love. Please honor her by continuing to help those in need around our community. With love, Trent, Michelle, Payton, Sam and Jacob Donley
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com
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Before
“We don’t just sell homes … While Donna Broadus, owner of Broadus Realty, is in the business to sell homes, the Realtor emphasizes there’s so much more to her business than just the sales transaction. In fact, the hallmark of her real estate company is customer service. It’s a quality that was instilled in her at a young age by her entrepreneurial father, leading her to develop practices at Broadus Realty Group (BRG) to show she cares about her clients. “We understand that buying and/or selling a home is, for most people, the largest single investment that they will make in their lifetime. But it’s also the place where they live and make a home,” Broadus said. “We have the expertise to help navigate the buying and selling process on a personal level. We are in the business to not only sell homes … we sell dreams.” Properties listed with BRG appear on more than 700 websites, and Broadus takes extra measures to make sure clients’ homes are showcased on major websites. The goal is to market properties on multiple platforms - such as the internet, print ads, and social media - for maximum exposure and profit.
FOR THE SELLERS
Free minor staging. “Our brokerage has in stock updated décor, including pictures/ mirrors, small furniture, floral and other items, to stage the seller’s home while the listing is active. Sellers will not have to buy
48
new décor to update their home, and they will be able to start packing their own things to prepare to move. We also use most of the seller’s furniture and some of their décor to stage the home, but we arrange it to look its best. It has been shown that well-staged and maintained homes sell quicker and at higher prices. We don’t know of many other agents who do this, and we feel it’s one thing that sets us apart. In fact, I have had other area buyers’ agents tell me that they love to show my listings because we made sure the homes are ready to show.” Broadus uses social media to post tips on decorating and home maintenance, before and afters photos and the latest trends. Check Instagram @donnabroadushome and Facebook @ broadusrealtygroup. Professional advice. “We know what really needs to be done to the home, such as major/minor repairs, cosmetic issues, etc., in order to sell the home for the maximum profit. We have a list of preferred vendors to recommend, as well as contractors who will wait until closing to get paid,” Broadus said. Making necessary repairs that are a typical part of home ownership, and cosmetic repairs such as paint and flooring, will help sell homes sell quicker. Organizational tips are included in the listing presentation.”
Professional photography.
Broadus Realty has a professional photographer, and uses the latest
we se
technology, including 3D virtual tours and drone pictures, for the majority of the listings. Video marketing tours are included for higher priced properties. BRG tries to stay on top of the latest technology trends to showcase their listings.
FOR THE BUYERS
BRG buyers’ specialists are trained extensively in sales contracts and negotiations as well as other aspects of real estate transactions, such as current area market status and analysis, types of loans, inspections, etc. A list of preferred vendors is available to help with mortgage loans, inspections, insurance and possible upgrades desired after closing. “Our goal for our buyers is to not only help them purchase the home of their dreams, but to help them navigate the ever-changing market and get them to closing,” Broadus said. “We want to provide the best customer service possible by listening to our buyers needs and desires for their new home. We are always available to answer questions and have a team of agents we work with to help facilitate showings, negotiations, and to coordinate closings.”
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Excellent customer service has been instilled in Broadus since she worked with her dad in his office supply business in Mississippi. He taught her the value
Broadus Realty Group Donna Broadus DIRECT 404-583-8856 www.broa TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Before
of hard work, to treat clients like family, and to learn as much as you can concerning your business. These qualities are at the foundation of BRG. One-on-one attention is especially important with the advent of online offers to buy homes. Broadus said an online estimate can be off anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of the home’s real value. The valuations are based on algorithms that don’t take into consideration the specific home, something that can’t be done effectively without an expert visiting the home. “Most of the ‘quick and easy sale’ offers are at investor prices, which could potentially cost the homeowner tens of thousands of dollars, money the seller could have received had they listed the home the traditional way with a qualified real estate broker,” Broadus said. “I’ve had several clients who received an online offer prior to listing with us. We netted them $20,000 or more after closing than they would have received had they gone with that other offer. That’s a lot of money to leave on the table.” Broadus stresses that nothing can replace personal service, especially from a Realtor who has been in the business since 2003 and has lived, and knows, in the Woodstock/Cherokee county area for more than 25 years. For a free consultation on your home, call Donna at 404-583-8856.
adusrealtygroup.com
THE TEAM Donna Broadus, owner, broker, listing specialist and team leader, has been in real estate since 2003. During the downturn, Broadus and a partner started a side business to appeal property taxes in metro Atlanta. This experience expanded her knowledge on Atlanta area property values and dealing with county boards. She is the mother of four and grandmother to nine, and enjoys spending free time with them. Amy Duska, is an associate broker and has been in real estate since 2005. Amy and Donna have worked together off and on for a number of years. Duska is a marketing specialist, showing assistant, and the team photographer. She also writes a popular food blog, www.amyinthekitchen.com Buyers specialist Stu Hixon, former Air Force and business owner, specializes in working with veterans and buyers looking to downsize. Hixon also holds an insurance license. He is an avid golfer and can help with golfing community properties. Hixon has been on the Eagle Watch HOA board for many years, as well as the USA Swimming and Georgia Swimming boards. He and his family have lived in the Towne Lake area for more than 20 years. Kathi O’Brien is a buyers specialist and a former real estate appraiser and has lived in Woodstock more than 14 years. She lost a son to distracted driving more than 10 years ago, and has become a strong advocate against distracted driving and worked diligently last year to get the hands-free bill passed. O’Brien volunteers by sharing the dangers of distracted driving with schools and other groups. Anna Daily is an associate broker with the firm and also co-owner of Rootstock and Vine with husband Sean. She recently moved her license to BRG but has been in the real estate business since 2004 and understands how important customer service is. She loves helping her current and past real estate clients. Sponsored Content
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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HEADSHOTS BY J. KING IMAGES
ell dreams!”
Understanding Qualified Charitable Distributions DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
When you reach age 70½, there can be a new way of giving. As the owner of a traditional IRA, you are likely aware that you are obligated to make required minimum distributions (RMDs) once you reach age 70½. However, you may not be aware that the RMD can be taken in the form of a qualified charitable distribution, where a qualified charity receives all or part of your RMD, satisfying your obligation and offering a potential tax advantage. (Withdrawals from traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.)1 Keep in mind, this article is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax or legal professionals before modifying your charitable giving strategy. There are a few rules, naturally. First, you can make a qualified charitable contribution only after you reach age 70½. So, if your 70th birthday takes place Jan. 17, you’re not going to be able to make the qualified charitable distribution until July 17, six months later.1 There is a cap of $100,000 of qualified charitable distribution per individual; you can donate more, if you want, but the overage may not have any tax benefits.1 To qualify, the charity must be a qualified 501(c)3 organization. You also must make your distribution check payable directly to the charity in question, as opposed to a director or another individual in the organization. Were you to do that (write a check to an affiliated individual, who would then use those funds to write another check directly to the organization) that would be a taxable distribution.1 Would you be able to split your qualified charitable contribution in half, giving half or part to the qualified charity and the remainder as a regular RMD? Yes, you can. You would perform them as separate actions, but as long as they add up to the necessary RMD, you should be fine. Consult with a tax or legal professional before making any changes to your strategy.2 How do you report it on your taxes? There is a section on Form
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
1040 for reporting IRA distributions. Regular RMDs are taxable events, but for qualified charitable contributions, you would enter 0 (zero) for the taxable amount (assuming that the full amount qualified) and enter “QCD” next to the line.2 If you are interested in supporting a charity, a qualified charitable contribution may be a good option for you to consider. Talk with your tax or financial professional about your options. Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note:- Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor a recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Citations. 1 - investopedia.com/articles/financial-advisors/032116/how-use-qcd-rulereduce-your-taxes.asp/ [12/10/18] 2 - irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-irasdistributions-withdrawals [5/30/18]
Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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PHOTO PROVIDED BY ELISABETH STUBBS
Luxury vinyl plank is ideal for areas of heavy traffic.
Luxury Vinyl is the Latest Favorite in Flooring BY ELISABETH STUBBS
If you have looked at model homes recently, you’ve seen luxury vinyl in almost every room of the home. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and tile (LVT) is available in wood looks (3- to 7-inch-wide planks), as well as tile and stone visuals. The digital technology being utilized creates extremely realistic patterns and textures. Luxury vinyl is perfect for locations where water is prevalent: bathrooms, laundry rooms, mud rooms and kitchens. It’s also perfect in basements and playrooms, where you need a floor that is practical and hardworking, as well as comfortable. Luxury vinyl is very durable and stainresistant. Most have attached backings, which add warmth, cushioning and sound-deadening properties. The term luxury can be a little misleading. LVP/LVT is quite affordable. It is more comfortable than tile. It’s true, you could just get a real stone or wood-look tile and it also would be waterproof. But, tile is hard. Standing on a tile floor all day isn’t great for your joints or feet. Vinyl is more resilient, much more comfortable, and very easy to maintain. An occasional vacuuming and a damp mop will keep your LVP looking fabulous. Luxury vinyl is not new; it has been used in commercial flooring for almost 50 years. The styling was industrial, so it was not popular in residential applications. Manufacturers began to discover that this easy-to-take-care-of floor was 52
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
ideal for the heavily used areas of the home, as well as rooms in which moisture was a big concern. Flooring designers began creating patterns and colors that mimicked wood, tile and stone. Once the styling aesthetic changed to more residential looks, luxury vinyl quickly established a strong presence in homes across America. The wear layer and thickness determine the durability of a particular LVP/LVT. The thicker the wear layer and vinyl, the more durable the vinyl will be. Do you have kids and pets? Look for at least a 20 mil (1 mil is one thousandth of an inch) wear layer for the very best scratch resistance. Styles that are wood plastic composite are considered the best. There are primarily two installation techniques for luxury vinyl: fully adhered (glued) to the subfloor and click (floating). You may be wondering how much it costs. For an average 300-square-foot kitchen, good quality runs around $2,000 installed, a better grade around $2,800, and the best is around $3,300. If you need a durable, easy care, beautiful floor, be sure to take a look at luxury vinyl.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
1847 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062
770-565-3808
www.enhancefloors.com Enhance Floors located in the Restaurant Depot Shopping Center Big Chicken
Pike Nurseries
Roswell Rd
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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2018
2019
Difference
Percentage
Single Family Homes Sold
875
801
-74
-8.46%
Average List Price
$318,130.79
$317,013.67
-1117.12
-0.35%
Average Sold Price
$308,029.39
$306,515.29
-1514.1
-0.49%
Sales Price as a Percent of List Price
96.82%
96.69%
-0.00136414%
-0.14%
Average Total Days on Market
65.11
70.03
4.92
7.56%
Average $$/sq ft
$117.79
$122.08
$4.29
3.64%
How is Our Real Estate Market? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON
We are sorry to report that the housing market in Cherokee is indicating a mixed message so far in 2019. The data is showing us that fewer homes are selling, they are selling for less money on average, for less of their list price, and they are taking longer to sell. These indications of a slowdown in the real estate market are subtle, but they aren't unexpected. Home sales in Cherokee are down year-to-date by 8.46 percent. The ones that sold took longer to sell, which resulted in price reductions that led us to a decline in our average sold price. Judging from the decline in average sold prices, combined with an increase in our average dollars per square foot for homes that sold, it would seem the higher-priced homes are lagging the most. We draw this conclusion because more expensive homes tend to
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sell at lower dollars per square foot since there is diminishing value in the square footage that exceeds 2,500 total square feet. As fewer of these higher-priced homes sell, our average dollars per square foot for homes that sold increases. It may be too early to panic, but it's not too early to consider doing something, if you know you need to sell in the next 18 months. There is still a robust market of buyers for homes, but it seems the slowdown in appetite is starting with the highest-priced homes, and working its way down (just like in any recession).
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
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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TOWNE LAKE AREA DINING CUISINE
BKFST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAYS SPIRITS RESERV.
Cancun Mexican Grill, 4430 Towne Lake Parkway 770-693-4680
Mexican
no
$
$
open
full bar
no
Cheeseburger Bobby’s, 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200, cheeseburgerbobbys.com
American
no
$
$
open
no
no
Chinese
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
American Irish
no
$
$$
open
full bar
6+
Mexican
no
$
$-$$
open
full bar
no
Family Tradition, 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885, familytradition.net
Homestyle Cooking
$
$
$
closed
no
no
GameDay Fresh Grill, 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754, gamedayfresh.com
American/Burgers
no
$
$$
open
full bar
yes
Thai/Sushi/ Chinese
no
$
$$
open
full bar
no
JD’s Barbeque, 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730, jdsbbq.com
Barbeque
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
Jersey’s Sports Bar, 6426 Bells Ferry Road 770-790-5740
American
no
$
$$
open
full bar
yes
Johnny’s Pizza, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494, johnnyspizza.com
Pizza/Pasta/ Salad
no
$
$-$$
open
full bar
no
Kani House, 2455 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-5264, kanihouse.com
Japanese Steak/Sushi
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
yes
Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open full bar Brunch
no
China Fun, 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671, chinafun88.com Donovan’s Irish Cobbler, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763, donovansirishcobbler.com El Ranchero, 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616
Izumi Asian Bistro, 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899, iloveizumi.com
Keegan’s Public House, 1085 Buckhead Crossing #140 Irish/Pub 770-627-4393, keegansirishpub.net La Parrilla, 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606, laparrilla.com
Mexican
no
$
$$
open
full bar
LongHorn, 1420 Towne Lake Parkway Steakhouse no $ $$ open full bar 770-924-5494, longhornsteakhouse.com Maple Street Biscuit Co., 2295 Towne Lake Pkwy #160 678-903-2161, maplestreetbiscuits.com
no call ahead seating
Southern
$-$$
$-$$
no
closed
no
no
Mellow Mushroom, 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331, mellowmushroom.com
Pizza/Pasta
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
beer/wine
no
NY Style Deli & Pizza, 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004
Pizza/Subs/ Bakery
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
no
no
Bakery/Soups/ Sandwiches
$
$
$-$$
open
no
no
Chinese/Japanese
no
$
$-$$
open
beer/wine
no
Chinese
no
$
$-$$
open
no
no
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 Drive American Sunday $ $$ open full bar no 770-592-9969 Brunch The Place, 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901, theplacebargrill.com
Bar/Grill
no
$-$$
$$
open
full bar
no
Tuscany, 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888, mytuscanyrestaurant.com
Italian
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
10+
Volcano Steak & Sushi, 2990 Eagle Drive 678-498-7888, volcanowoodstock.com
Asian
no
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
full bar
no
full bar
yes
WOW Pho & Grill, 6422 Bells Ferry Rd Vietnamese no $-$$ $-$$ open 678-383-6099, wowpho.com
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019
coming soon
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
RESTAURANT
Casual and Upscale Restaurants
“Sell it with Sarah!” Buy or Sell Your Home with
SARAH TERRELL
770-928-6525
RealEstateAgent.net /SarahTerrellRemax
Customer Service You Can Count On!
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Tips to Staying Safe on the Water This Season BY GREGORY FONZENO
Georgia boaters, mark your calendars for National Safe Boating Week May 18-24, the unofficial start of the boating season. While boating is a time for fun and family, it’s also a time for care and safety. With more than 330,000 boats registered in the state, there are at least three things everyone should do to ensure a fun and safe day on the water.
Take a boating education class.
Just as an educated driver is safer on the road, an educated boater is safer on the water. Knowing the rules on the water keeps everyone safe, and provides for a much more enjoyable experience. There are many options locally available to take a safe boating class, including courses offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, or online by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is also important to remember that in Georgia, anyone born after Jan. 1, 1998, must have completed a boating education course before operating any motorized vessel on Georgia state waters.
Always wear a life jacket.
Many of us might remember pictures of the Titanic and other maritime disasters where passengers put on large, bulky life jackets. They were so cumbersome that they were stored aboard ship and passed out (at least to the lucky ones) just before sinking. Things have changed! Today’s recreational boater life jackets are lightweight – not bulky – colorful, and comfortable to wear. Their purpose, however, hasn’t changed; they still save lives. In the past five years, 21 people have drowned in Lake Allatoona, and none of those victims were wearing life jackets. Approximately 700 boating deaths occur nationally each year with 80 percent drowning, and 83 percent of those were not wearing life jackets. Georgia law requires that boaters “carry aboard and have readily accessible” one Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on board. Life jackets must be in good condition, and of the proper fit for each passenger – a small child needs a small life jacket. However, if you find yourself overboard and in the water, it is impossible to grab your life jacket, and put
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it on while in the water struggling to stay afloat. A life jacket only works if it is worn at all times. There are a wide variety of life jackets on the market. Pricewise they range from about $10 to more than $200. Whatever type of life jacket you choose, the most important feature is that it is worn at all times while on the boat. A life jacket doesn’t work unless you wear it. When a life jacket is worn, nobody mourns.
File a float plan.
Whenever you go boating, always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. If something should happen, you can’t be rescued if no one knows where to search. Always prepare a float plan before departure. The plan doesn’t need to be overly complicated, but should cover the following points: • Description of the boat: type, length, color, registration number and name. • Description of your car: license plate number and at what marina or launch ramp it is parked.
• Number of people on board. • When and from where you are leaving, where you are going/route, and when you expect to return. If that seems like too much, just let someone know from where you are leaving, where you are going, and when you will be returning. Leave the float plan with a good friend, a family member, or someone you can trust to take action once you are overdue. Your friend will then call the appropriate party to come to your rescue. The appropriate party to call could be the DNR, the Corps of Engineers, or local sheriff’s office. The float plan tells the rescuer where to look. As the boating season begins, everyone wants to have an enjoyable time on the water. A safe boating experience is a fun experience. Following these guidelines will help everyone have a much safer boating season this summer. For more information about boating education classes, email the Lake Allatoona Coast Guard Auxiliary at flotilla22pe@gmail.com.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
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An Adventure BY ANN LITREL
Alligators and 6-foot-long sturgeon reputedly swim in the depths of the murky river under our boat. My friend Ginger sits behind me, steering the kayak while I periodically break to click a quick photo. We are deep in South Georgia, navigating the wildest unbroken stretch of river east of the Mississippi: the Altamaha, which flows freely for 137 miles, with no dam to break its course to the sea. The river is known as Georgia’s “Little Amazon.” We’re here on a weekend stewardship trip with the Georgia Conservancy, joined by 70 fellow paddlers from all over the Southeast. Our bright boats and life vests form a colorful parade gliding atop the water. On either side of us, the wide fingers of the Altamaha reach far inland, spreading ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM 60
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
Kayaking along Georgia's Little Amazon quietly between the trunks of cypress and tupelo. The silence is eerie. Small drips and splashes follow our paddles through the water, but there is no motor noise anywhere to be heard. So far, so good. I briefly recall the warning in bold print on our registration form: “Intermediate Paddlers only.” I blithely ignored it. It’s been two days since Ginger and I pulled into the Altamaha River Campground, tossing together a two-person tent that appeared designed for a single small child with a pillow. A night in the tent produced dents in my back and frozen fingers at dawn, but multiple pots of coffee and hot eggs resuscitated all of us, and, by 9 a.m., we were fortified for the all-day paddle from camp to sea. The river surged with spring rains and a slow tidal breath from the sea. But the miles of wild banks were peaceful, and even as we drew near the small town of Darien, our take-out point, no signs of humans marred the landscape. Swamp trees gave way to rustling marsh grasses. Bald eagles soared high in the blue, alighting from time to time in the few lonely trees standing in the marsh. The wilderness made its imprint on us in silence and ancient wildness. Today, our second day, is another gift. We have ventured into the deep swamp creeks surrounding the campground - the “best part of the weekend,” say returning paddlers. With each stroke we penetrate farther into the prehistoric forest. Trunks of trees loom large in our path. Ginger and I suddenly notice water inside our kayak, sloshing over our seats. Maybe a slow leak. We look up. The spaces between the trees have narrowed.
Georgia Nature Excursions The Georgia Conservancy
Georgiaconservancy.org
The Nature Conservancy Nature.org
Ginger, left, and Ann became “intermediate” paddlers.
Perhaps an intermediate paddler would know what to do. One of the guides paddles up behind us. “This is where is gets a little tough for a tandem kayak,“ he says laconically. “Y’all have much experience?” No. Experience would be handy right about now – say, when you’re paddling a leaky 18-foot kayak into a thicket of trees, and you need to execute a sudden 90-degree turn to avoid crashing into a snag of fallen logs. We weren’t the only ones having problems. Kayaks running into kayaks. Canoes stuck between trees. One boat taking on water, and getting close to capsizing. Within three minutes, our group was a floating traffic jam. Forget about enjoying the wilderness. Ginger and I wanted only to get out of the swamp without swimming with the gators. As it turned out, we finally did get untangled, and after a couple more hours made it back to base camp. As a matter of fact, we became “intermediate” paddlers. Lying in the tent that night, we heard the barred owl call. The stars shone like maybe they have since the beginning of the world. And, at dawn, we watched a great white egret hunt along the shoreline in the mist. Worth a couple of cold nights and wet bottoms.
Ann Litrel is an artist, writer and certified Master Naturalist. She works in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Turn Around Kids: Champions for Children BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
In a land far, far away (St. Petersburg, Russia) a little girl named Caitlyn was born to alcoholic parents. Placed in an orphanage at age 4 with her brother, they stayed there for five years, until a wonderful Christian couple adopted them. Sadly, Caitlyn’s childhood trauma began to manifest itself in her early teens. Anger, rebellion and self-hatred left her adoptive parents at wit’s end. After exhausting all other options to help her, they sent her to live with Turn Around Kids. “I went kicking and screaming,” Caitlyn said. “But, because of the many opportunities to be involved in ministry while there, I started to experience God for who He really is. He is love, and He loves us, and He loves me. Now, I am so thankful. For me, it’s not just some Christian organization, it’s family. Christi and Cheryl are the hands and feet of Christ. I owe a debt to them I cannot pay. ... I am now a faithful wife to the best husband I could ask for, a homeschooling mom of seven, and, above all, a follower of Jesus.” Co-founded by Cheryl Anderson and Christi Vieira, Turn Around Kids (TAK) began in Cherokee County in 2003. This powerhouse mother-daughter team, and those in their family who come alongside to help, are champions for children, and advocates for those who have been through unspeakable trauma.
Family day with Cedric, who graduated from Marine boot camp training.
An advocate is a person who actively promotes the goals of a cause. At TAK, the cause is to support vulnerable children around the greater Atlanta area. The goals are to ease the suffering of homeless, abandoned and abused children. TAK has advocated for and rescued 90 children out of dire circumstances since it began 16 years ago. TAK’s mission is to make a difference one child at a time. This is accomplished in a family environment where siblings are kept together. “When children come to live with us, we take parental guardianship. We become their family. We are committed to them for life from that moment on,” Anderson said. Relationships in the TAK homes are nurtured through a holistic approach, addressing each child’s spiritual, physical, nutritional, academic and psychological health. Groups and independent counseling are utilized, along with spiritual and devotional instruction, classroom and hands-on education, outreach and exit strategy. “It has been my great privilege to participate with TAK for the last several years,” Bart Campbell said. “Witnessing the selfless devotion and loving kindness that’s
immeasurably meted out to the children is what inextricably drew me in to want to be involved with their great work.” TAK is growing, and presently operating in two locations, one home in Woodstock and another in Acworth. Dual homes present a set of challenges. The Acworth location, a 21-acre dream come true, was acquired in July of 2015. The property has a nine-bedroom five-bathroom house on it that was left unoccupied, vandalized, and was in bad shape. It had to be gutted. Renovations were completed, and the rooms now are filled with precious Turn Around Kids. Today, the ultimate goal is to build another house on this property, so everyone can relocate to Acworth and live together in one spot. Cheryl and Christi are inviting you to become an advocate for at-risk children. You can make a big difference by helping with the construction of the second home, volunteering, or spreading the word about the work being done there. For more information, visit www. turnaroundkids.org or call 678-388-7660. You can make a tax-deductible donation online or mail to: 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite #116-102, Woodstock, GA 30189.
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.
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Marriage Moments
Be Encouraged as You Care for Others BY BILL RATLIFF
Are you a married couple and care for a loved one in your home? Are you a couple who regularly visits and minister to a family member at a memory care, rehab, nursing or assisted-living facility? I want to encourage you, as a caregiving couple, to realize how special you truly are. (This holds true for individual caregivers, as well as couples.) As you care for others, you are modeling the life of Jesus. In the Bible, Jesus says, "I came not to be served, but to serve." Jesus is the greatest caregiver. He sacrificed his life so you and I might have eternal life. On many occasions, Jesus demonstrated his priority of caregiving. When his disciples were holding back children who wanted to see him, Jesus said, "Allow the children to come unto me." Jesus did the dirty job of washing his disciples' feet before the Lord's Supper. When Jesus was unjustly arrested, his disciple Peter cut off the ear of one of the guards who came to take Jesus into custody. What did Jesus do in response? Escape? Fight back? No, instead he prioritized caregiving during this intense encounter. He picked up the man's ear and put it back on his head, thus healing him. Even from the cross, Jesus was the exemplary caregiver for his mother
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when he said, "Mother, behold your son, Son behold your mother." Jesus knew his mother would have no means of support and would need people to take care of her. Jesus chose the young disciple, John to provide for his mother. As a caregiving couple, you imitate the self-sacrificing life of Jesus. In your caregiving, though you may be criticized, be not disheartened; though you get discouraged, be not defeated; though you are fatigued, be not unempowered; though you may be overwhelmed, realize you are in the palm of God's hand.
Date Your Mate On this Mother's Day, show the mother, mom or mommy in your family your love and appreciation for them as caregivers. Do something with or for them that is a little different. Think outside the box and show them how much you treasure and appreciate them.
Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.
Triad Is Valuable Resource for Seniors BY NATHAN BRANDON
The Cherokee County Triad/SALT (seniors and law enforcement together) organization has been in operation since 2006, when it was implemented by the Canton Police Department. Triad is the agreement of local law enforcement agencies and older adults in the community to work together. The national Triad was formed in 1988. Triad is a concept of cooperation to reduce the criminal victimization of older adults through: • Proactive community education for older adults and their caregivers. • Addressing current crime issues. • Enhancing delivery of law enforcement services as needed. The Cherokee Triad-SALT Council is in partnership with the following agencies: Canton Police Department, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department, Holly Springs Police Department, Woodstock Police Department, Ball Ground Police Department, Cherokee County Fire Department, Emergency Medical Response Teams, Woodstock Fire Department, Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit-Cherokee County District Attorney’s Office, Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program, Cherokee County Senior Services, along with other agencies and organizations that deal with the community’s aging population. Some of the council’s activities include education through a lunch-and-learn format at several locations including the William G. Long Senior Center, Heritage Fellowship, several neighborhood HOAs and Allen Temple A.M.E. Church. Topics cover identity theft and fraud, elder abuse, senior housing options, advanced directives, and wills and trusts. Triad also provides financial support for Bethesda Clinic, Cherokee County Homeless Veterans Program and emergency shelter funds for area law enforcement agencies. Annually, the Triad-SALT organization presents the Senior Extravaganza in order to fund its community outreach. Held the last Saturday of April, the event has been hosted by First Baptist Church Woodstock for the past 13 years. The extravaganza provides display space for more than 50 vendors and service organizations that deal with aging issues and services. Door prizes are provided, and demonstrations from local groups such as the line dancers from the William G. Long Senior Center and the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office canine unit. Triad/SALT was originally tasked with identifying and developing programs to address the needs and concerns of seniors in our community. The organization continues to support its original purpose, and expand its reach. continued on page 87 Nathan has been a resident of Cherokee County since 1982. He retired from Cherokee County Senior Services, and remains involved in community organizations that focus on senior adults. 404-384-8533 TOWNELAKER | May 2019
65
@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock 770-926-5859
May 4
STEAM Kit Day at 11 a.m. Celebrate Georgia STEM day with us by trying out STEAM kits that are available for check-out. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
May 8
Homeschoolers' Book Club at 1:30 p.m. Join a community of readers who meet once a month to enjoy some lively conversation about literature. This month’s theme is space. Children should read a book independently or with a caregiver, and share a brief book talk about their book with the group. Refreshments are provided.
May 21
Readers browsed hundreds of items during the March Friends of the Cherokee County Public Libraries book sale at the Rose Creek Public Library.
Book Discussion Group at noon. Enjoy coffee, conversation, and a book discussion with new friends. This month’s selection is “The River of Doubt” by Candice Millard. All ages are welcome; new members are encouraged.
ROSE CREEK
HICKORY FLAT
4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-591-1491
2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
May 3
Toddler Spring Sensory Walk at 10:30 a.m. Help
your toddler experience all the sights and sounds of spring during this indoor activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
May 16
Yarn Bombing 101 at 3:30 p.m. Learn all about yarn
bombing and find out how you can be a part of the library’s yarn bombing project coming up in June. For all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult.
May 23
Recording Your Family’s Secrets at 11 a.m.
May 3
Star Wars Escape Room at 11 a.m. Put your Jedi skills to the test! For all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required.
May 6
Teen Advisory Board Meeting at 6 p.m. The Teen Advisory Board is
a way to make your voice heard by planning and implementing library events. Earn volunteer hours, help select new materials for the library, and more. Discussions will include teen Summer Reading Program events and recognizing graduating high school seniors. All teens are welcome. To become a member of the Teen Advisory Board, pick up an application at the library.
Author Angela Rochon discusses her book “Fatherless: My Father’s Memoir and Mine.” Learn about researching, organizing and recording your family history, as well as different methods of genealogy research.
May 13
May 25
May 15
Inklings Creative Expressions presents its Children’s Writers Critique Group. If you enjoy writing stories for children, this is for you.
friends from Go Noodle! It’ll be a dance party to remember. Experience parachute play, music, gross motor skills, and storytelling in one action-packed hour. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Children’s Writers Critique Group at 3 p.m.
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Are You Smarter Than a Librarian? at 6 p.m. Think you’ve got
what it takes to outsmart a librarian? Play this game to find out. Refreshments provided for participants and audience members. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required.
Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get moving and grooving with
Knotted up inside?
Relax. Call your digestive experts. We can help. Canton | 678.593.1295 Woodstock | 770.926.5459 www.atlantagastro.com
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
67
GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM
Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, Š OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community
Visit our website for more information on these or other trail projects. www.greenprintsalliance.org
Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street.
It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92.
Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park.
Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 68
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69
Rob’s Rescues I visited the Atlanta Police Department's Animal Cruelty Unit and interviewed Officers Amy Soeldner and Joe Latosky. www.atlantapd.org/home
What do you do and how long have you been doing it? This dog’s name is Old Alabama. He is a great, 10-yearold, senior dog. He is a good size for a family dog and is precious with a short tail. He is super friendly, and will come right up to you, and isn’t scared or shy. He is very gentle, and pretty curious about what’s going on around him. The Cherokee County Shelter has a bunch of other dogs, and you will find your great dog there if you aren’t looking for a senior shepherd-mix like Old Alabama.
As police officers we respond to any call for assistance. We specialize in animal cruelty. Officer Soeldner has been on the police force for 21 years and Officer Latosky eight years. The Animal Cruelty Unit has been in existence for a year, but Officer Soeldner has been focused on cruelty cases for 20 years.
From left, Officer Amy Soeldner, Rob and Officer Joe Latosky.
What is the best part of your job?
Letting them "take the ride." Having offenders get picked up on a warrant. Being the voice of the animal that has been abused, or standing up for the person who owned the animal who has lost it in cruel circumstances. Getting justice for the animal. We want to send a strong message that if you hurt an animal, it will not be tolerated. Getting closure for pet owners, too. Like a case we had of a cat wrapped in a grocery bag, and left on the owner's doorstep. We thought this might have been retaliation from an ex-employee the owner had fired. We sent the cat for a necropsy that clarified cause of death as a dog attack. We could give the owner closure that this was not someone targeting her personally.
What was your first case with animals?
A dog was starved to death. The neighbors were trying to feed it, but the owner wouldn't let them. There was also a dog fighting case. The dog had been chained to a tree and almost mauled to death. We found the owner and got him put in jail.
Do you do more dog or cat cases?
More dogs than cats, but cats on the incline. We have a horse case right now and recently closed on a llama case. We have dealt with goats, too, and an abandoned bearded dragon.
How many cases do you do in a year? We had more than 200 cases last year.
What is the major problem in the community? This cat’s name is Erin. She is 1½ years old and is a calico cat. Erin is super friendly and has big green eyes. She has unusual coloring, and she loves to be held and likes to lie on comfortable surfaces. She was a stray, and when she came to the shelter she had a wound on her foot, but it is fixed now.
Follow Rob! @robsrescues 70
TOWNELAKER | May 2019
The judicial system could take the process and punishment more seriously. Also, there is little to no education for children about how to be safe around animals. We will only break the cruelty cycle by educating kids.
What are some stories that you love to tell?
Last year, there was a case that was all over the news. Video at a gas station showed a man violently kicking a young cat. The case went unsolved for a long time, despite extensive publicity and numerous tips. Then, a single sentence tip was called in. We followed it up and jackpot! We try and help the people and animals in our district as much as we can. There is an older gentleman in a rundown area of the city who has a dog called Bear-Bear. On a drive through the continued on page 87
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.
GOLFING
RE ! FThe Children
WHEN: Monday, June 17, 2019 TIME: 8 AM Registration 9:30 AM Shotgun Start - Scramble LOCATION: Woodmont Golf Club 3105 Gaddis Rd. • Canton, GA 30115 For more information please visit www.serviceleague.net. For sponsorship information, email serviceleaguesponsors@gmail.com CORPORATE PARTNER
All proceeds benefit the children in need of Cherokee County
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Historic Main Street during the car show.
The Garbade family from Paulding County with Ben and Ava Hawkins of Douglasville.
Spring Classic Car Cruise
Riley the dog with owner Darren Poehner of Acworth.
George Varnell of Kennesaw.
The Maines family from Calhoun.
Various motorcycles were part of the fun.
Above, Bruce West of Chattahoochee Hills, Robert Grant of Fairburn, David Echols of Villa Rica and Gary Jolly of Acworth. Right, Rachel Parham and Hudson Fleet. 72
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The Lake City Cruisers partnered with the City of Acworth and downtown merchants to host the Spring Classic Car Cruise March 30 on Main Street. All proceeds went to the Horizon Field, an allinclusive special-needs sports facility in Acworth.
PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO.
Green Chevy truck next to the mural on Dallas Street in downtown Acworth.
Marbon and Jada Williams of Acworth and Robin and Ricky Gilley of Acworth.
Mary Margaret Doran with her great great grandfather’s truck, alongside grandparents Roger and Beth Kendricks of Cartersville.
Heather and Scott Royster from Acworth.
Ronnie Crain of Kennesaw and Charlie McEntire of Acworth.
Above, Event attendees gather around a Volkswagen bus. Left, Razzy Red (Tanya) and Albert Agundes of Kennesaw. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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TOWNE LAKE AREA HOMES SOLD IN MARCH
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Pain of the or Knee? A CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY is currently evaluating an investigational drug for the treatment of moderate to severe osteoarthritis knee or hip pain. • Are you 18 years of age or older? • Have you been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in your knee or hip? • Are you experiencing moderate to severe knee or hip pain? • Are you intolerant to your current OA pain treatment? • Is your current treatment not providing adequate pain relief? If you answered yes to these questions, you may be eligible to participate in this study.
Call Us Today to Learn More. (678) 581-5252 Drug Studies America 400 Tower Road * Suite 150 * Marietta across from Kennestone Wellstar Hospital www.drugstudies.net TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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mINgle
After Hours Networking at Little River Clothing Thursday May 9 // 5:30 - 7:30 PM Copper Coin Coffee
MORNING INFLUENCE
Friday May 31, 2019 // 8 AM
RSVP: INWDSTK.ORG/EVENTS
There’s New Hope in Her Family... Hope for Stability! Please help Papa's Pantry fight hunger and instability everyday by becoming a donor - to feed the hungry and train people to become financially self-reliant. This is our way of strengthening families, communities, and ending hunger! Please donate: papaspantry.org/donation-information 6551 Commerce Pkwy, Woodstock, 30189 770-591-4730
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Elm Street
Finding Joy and Inspiration in Art BY CHRISTOPHER BRAZELTON
Recently, we announced the new programming for our upcoming Season to Prevail. Frankly, there are a number of reasons why I am excited about this season, which starts in August. To prevail means to prove superior, but even more, it means to exist. At Elm Street, we love our community, and how art is used to further that community. I think it is important, because art calls to the optimism within us and beckons us to be inspired. Being inspired is increasingly important. The national headlines become predictably dreary: bigotry, poverty, injustice, trauma, trouble. Working on this season, with the stellar team at Elm Street, helped me remember a simple truth: Prioritizing hope, whenever possible, is a brave and bold thing to do. Many stories for the upcoming season resonate with this truth, as well. With the many events Elm Street does, sometimes we lose track of what we are doing. So, when we announce a season, it’s a great reminder of why we do what we do, and we love seeing the community get excited about what we have planned. I think this is when Elm Street performs its best art; when you meet us where we are, and invite us to think, to feel, to wonder, to dream, to debate, to laugh, to resist, to roam, to imagine with you. Art is worthy of our interrogation, and is, in fact, an antidote for our times. Art instigates all of this. Our events celebrate and suggest ways that one can find inspiration in the present moment. Whether a filmmaker or a photographer, an author or an actress, a poet or a painter, our events are filled with people who use art as a means for dynamic optimism. As the gifted theologian Howard Thurman once wrote: “Whatever may be the tensions and the stresses of a particular day, there is always lurking close at hand the trailing beauty of forgotten joy or unremembered peace.” When you come to Elm Street, we hope you find that joy, that inspiration, that optimism amid the tensions of the day. Not just as an escape, but as an opportunity to prevail by taking part in that joy. Join us for an upcoming Lantern Series concert or theater show, and prevail with us.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
The Huntertones Jazz Funk | New York
Violet Bell
Americana | Asheville
HUNTERTONES VIOLET BELL
MAY 18th | 7:30PM JUNE 1st | 7:30PM LANTERN SERIES PRESENTING PARTNER:
JUNE 12th-26th PRESENTING PARTNER:
Registration is OPEN for
SUMMER CAMPS Christopher Brazelton, a Florida State University graduate, is the executive director of Elm Street Cultural Arts Village.
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING
Casual and Upscale Restaurants
Century House Tavern Modern 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 American centuryhousetavern.com Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com see ad inside front, 18
no
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
8 persons +
$
$
$
open
Full bar
no
Fajita Valley Mexican 180 Towne Lake Pkwy fajitavalley.com 770-928-2570
no
$
$-$$
open
Full bar
yes
Fire Stone Wood-fired Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 Pizza & Grill Brunch 11-3 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 Brunch freightkitchen.com 10:30-3
yes
Habanero’s Taqueria Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243
Sat./Sun. Brunch 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
no
J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no 315 Chambers St., 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer 150 Towne Lake Parkway Southern 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Mad Life Studios Southern no $-$$ $$-$$$$ open Full bar 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com Partners II Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
no
no
$$-$$$
open
Beer/Wine
no
Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 Brunch puretaqueria.com/woodstock 11-3
$$
$$
open
Full bar
6 persons+
Reel Seafood Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 reel-seafood.com
Sunday Brunch 10:30-3:30
$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Rootstock and Vine 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 www.rootstockandvine.com
Wine bar Tapas
Sun. Brunch 11:30-3
$-$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Salt Factory Pub Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225
Sat./Sun. Brunch 11-3
$$
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
no
American
no
$
$
open
Full bar
no
English Tea room
no
$$
no
closed
no
yes
no
$-$$
$-$$
open
Craft Beer
no
Sunday Brunch 10:30-2
$$
$$$
open
Full bar
yes
Truck & Tap Variety of 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 Food trucks truckandtap.com Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com 80 TOWNELAKER | May 2019
no
Weekends only
no
Semper Fi Bar and Grille 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 Tea Leaves & Thyme 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com
Pizza
no
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com
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Safety First
School Crossing Guards Deserve Our Thanks, Praise
that everyone remains safe, and to be kind and courteous as they do their job. We also ask you to consider going one step Each of us who lives in Cherokee County should be able to further: please thank a crossing guard. agree on one thing: Our roads are busy and growing busier Serving as a crossing guard can be dangerous and thankless, every day. and we all can do our part to make this job safer and more I hope we can agree on another point: Keeping these roads appreciated. safe, especially around our schools, is an important priority. A “thank you” can be as easy as waving hello or giving a We’re fortunate to have the thumbs-up, or sending a personal Cherokee Sheriff’s Office, led by note, a card made by your child or Sheriff Frank Reynolds, that’s small gift to the school to pass along dedicated to serving and protecting to the crossing guard. A $5 gift card our community. The Sheriff’s Office to enjoy a hot cup of coffee makes is an outstanding partner for our a big impact after a cold or wet (or school district in times of crisis, but both) shift. A gift card for a frozen also every day by offering crossing treat is just as wonderful on warmer guards. days. The Sheriff’s Office employs Please consider thanking Sheriff crossing guards to keep our county’s Reynolds and the Cherokee County roads safe for everyone by directing Board of Commissioners for the traffic at our most congested school investment of our tax dollars that entrances. Just like patrolling for employs the crossing guards. Mary Hulsey, top and above, is the crossing guard at speeders, careless drivers and It’s good for them to hear your Hickory Flat Elementary School. stopped-school-bus passers, the appreciation as well. office’s dedication to ensuring school entrances are safe is P.S. The fine for failing to obey a crossing guard directing crucial to the safety of everyone on our roads. traffic? It may end up costing you $1,000. There’s no more important person during the school rush hour than the crossing guard, as he or she is key to ensuring traffic moves through the school zones smoothly and slowly; Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer that drivers – no matter how rushed – take turns; and that it’s for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent safe for walkers and bicyclists to cross streets. with four children. It's important to remember to yield to crossing guards, so BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
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Capture Life in Photos
First recognized in 1987, May is celebrated as National Photography Month. In honor of the month, we asked Cherokee County high school students to share their photographs and what inspires them. We hope their work inspires you to take a moment to capture the world through the lens of a camera − no matter what kind of camera you use.
Emily Collins
Freshman - Etowah High “This is my photo I took in downtown Woodstock. I decided to take this photo because we were stopping for burgers at Canyons, and the lights on the trees looked too pretty not to take a picture. The atmosphere in downtown Woodstock at night is just so beautiful, I could take photos all day and night! Being in downtown gives me so much inspiration to take pictures of things I love and people I love!”
Jaxon Meeks, Junior - River Ridge High “Looking through the lens of a camera opens up a whole new world through fresh eyes. I think that we should be out and about exploring every inch of our cities, suburbs, countrysides, and the untamed wilderness. We live on this planet, why not venture out into it?”
Meredith Rice, Sophomore - Cherokee High Caroline Alcott, Senior - Cherokee High
“I love using nature to emphasize my subject. Just using the natural surroundings to send a message. I love how natural lighting can impact a photo.”
“What inspires my photography is everyday life. From the different types of cars I see on the road, to the sound of barking dogs in the distance, all spark my creativity. It’s the natural patterns and coincidences that make creating a photograph so seamless.”
Morgan Guion, Junior - Cherokee High Allison Himiob, Junior - River Ridge High “When I take pictures, I take them to express my joy, confusion, excitement, anything I'm feeling. My inspiration is me. My pictures are me.” 84
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“Photography is something I love because I can go out, and what most people would likely overlook, I can bring out the beauty. Everyone sees anything and everything differently, and I love being able to show the way I see things. I love being able to speak through my pictures. Photography is something so beautiful that has unlimited boundaries for you to express any way possible.”
Tori Kershaw, Sophomore - River Ridge High
Maddalena Lorae
Brooklyn Butterworth
“Earth inspires my photography! Photography is like a power; any image that you take tells a story in its own way. Messing with photoshop and different styles of cropping and coloring can make a world’s difference in your photography. You can take a picture of anything and make it beautiful! Beauty lies within the person.”
“My photography is inspired by the beauty in everyday life. I love to take pictures of people and capture what makes them who they are. In this picture, the subject was just working on welding, something that he is passionate about. Welding is a skill that will shape his life and change who he is. We all have our own things, big or small, that make us unique.”
Junior - Cherokee High
Junior - Cherokee High
“This photo was taken at the Skydeck in Chicago of my beautiful family friend who tends to model for me often. The bright colors of her eyes, hair, and the city below her are my favorite part. I had so much fun trying different angles in the two minutes I was able to be standing on the glass during my turn. Photography is amazing to me, because it lets me remember the best moments of my life, and make it art.”
Kathleen (Kathy) Tjim, Junior - Cherokee High “I’m inspired by photography because I’m able to capture moments that allow you to look back and relive those specific events. Photography makes you look in a different perspective to capture your view of the world. It allows you to be creative with your work and show your talent to an audience.”
Emma Snyder
Jenna Watson
“I love photography. I am always taking pictures of different life. I love the way you can see someone through the camera. You can catch a person’s mood and opinions just with the way you convey light in your photographs.”
“What inspires me to take photography is the ability to capture moments that remind me of something when I am traveling. I like the different textures of photos and circumstances of where I am traveling to!”
Sophomore - Cherokee High
Sophomore - Cherokee High
Phoebe Offenberg, Sophomore - Sequoyah High “Travel inspires my photography by providing a creative outlet as well as letting me see the world through the lens of my camera. I love travelling and I enjoy seeing the world from new perspectives and angles. Photography also allows me to capture moments and views of my travels, so I can cherish and remember the beauty of all the places I visit.” TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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YOUR SCHOOL NEWS
Teachers in the Spotlight
Dreams Do Come True! Woodstock High School student Alanis "Laney" Broussard recently returned from her Disney Dreamer experience in Orlando, where she was awarded an internship with Essence magazine in New York City. She also will have the opportunity to be a red carpet correspondent for the Essence Festival in New Orleans in July. While at the Disney Dreamer experience, Broussard attended workshops in law and journalism. Her dream is to have her own TV show or podcast, where she can have conversations with other teens on issues they experience, and conversations that will change lives.
Alanis "Laney" Broussard at Disney World.
From left: E.T. Booth Middle School Principal Mike Manzella, Hightower, Loiselle, and Cherokee County School District Chief Academic Officer Nicole H. Holmes.
E.T. Booth Middle School eighth-grade teacher Amy Loiselle recently was given the Superintendent’s 2019 Game Changer Award for Instructional Excellence during a before-school faculty meeting. “It’s my privilege today to be with you to honor someone who has given a lot to the classroom. As superintendent, I established an award series that specifically honors curriculum and instruction, as that is our life blood, it's what we are all about,” said Superintendent Brian V. Hightower about Loiselle, who is the school’s English language arts department chair. “We all got into this field to make an impact on kids in the classroom. Amy is making an impact.” Hightower said Loiselle has greatly impressed him, and his Office of Curriculum and Instruction leadership, for her successful development of Rigorous Curriculum Design (RCD) units to raise the bar for challenging academic coursework offered to all district students. “I really am a cheerleader for the RCD,” Loiselle said. “I am so thankful we are doing this, and [E.T. Booth] is doing a fabulous job. It’s beyond wonderful here, and I cannot thank you all enough for supporting me and going through the RCD implementation.” Loiselle earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama in special education; master’s degree from Walden University in curriculum and instruction, with a specific emphasis in reading, English language arts and social studies; and a specialist degree in education from Piedmont University. She joined the school district in 2004 after teaching special education and coaching competition cheerleading in Cobb County.
Scholarship Winners Honored by Chatt Tech The Chattahoochee Tech Foundation recently honored recipients of 53 different scholarships at an awards luncheon. “With scholarship awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, the total value of these scholarships was $90,800,” said Chattahoochee Technical College Advancement Coordinator Amanda Henderson. Scholarship winners competed against hundreds of student applicants throughout the college, according to Henderson. The college’s Board of Trustees scored the recipients, and then the top applicants were matched with the appropriate scholarship. In addition to meeting the special criteria for certain scholarships, applicants had to meet specific GPA requirements, demonstrate financial need, and be enrolled for a specified number of credit hours. Six of the award recipients are from Cherokee County: Allison Edge, Angel on My Shoulder Scholarship; Anna Young, Cherokee Master Gardeners Horticulture Scholarship; Lillian Waddell, Jack Vaughan Jr. Endowed Scholarship; Alexis Ocasio, Mark Whitfield Scholarship of Excellence; Deena Shaw, Mosley Endowed Automotive Scholarship; and Aaron Bertolini, the Magnolia Garden Club of Cartersville, Georgia, Scholarship. 86
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Chattahoochee Tech Foundation scholarship award recipients.
E.T. Booth Middle School seventh-grade science teacher Kara Reeder was named a 2019 Georgia STEM Scholar. She is one of 23 teachers, selected from a pool of statewide nominees, to earn the honor from the Georgia Youth Science and Technology Centers. The K-8 teachers were selected for their excellence in teaching children about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and their innovation in integrating STEM lessons in elementary education. Each honoree received $500 Kara Reeder to purchase classroom STEM supplies, and was celebrated at a gala at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre celebrating the nonprofit’s 30th anniversary. Reeder is a 16-year educator who joined the E.T. Booth faculty four years ago. She also was honored this year as her school’s Teacher of the Year, and earned the Golden Apple Award in 2018 from Delta Kappa Gamma. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Dayton and her master’s of education in curriculum, instruction and supervision from Oakland University.
Loretta Muise of Woodstock High School has been named the Georgia Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ High School Teacher of the Year. The council presents three awards — one each for elementary, middle and high school levels — which annually are given to “excellent teachers who have strong content foundations in mathematics appropriate for their teaching level, show evidence of growth in the teaching of mathematics, and show evidence of professional involvement.” Muise, who has 29 years of experience, is the Loretta Muise school’s math department chair and teaches Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB/BC and Multivariable Calculus. She joined the school district as a math teacher at Woodstock High in 2004, and was named the department chair in 2011. Muise earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics from Salem State University and a specialist degree in education from Piedmont College.
Triad Is Valuable Resource continued from page 65
For more information, visit www.saltcherokee.com/ or on Facebook as Cherokee Triad-SALT.
Here is a list of helpful numbers: Adult Protective Services (APS) 404-657-5250 AARP 888-687-2277 Cherokee Area Transit (CATS) 770-345-6238 DFCS (Food stamps) 877-423-4746 Family Violence Hotline 770-479-1703 Cherokee County Health Department 770-345-7371 Canton Housing Authority 770-479-4969 Meals on Wheels 770-345-7440 MUST Ministries 770-479-5397 Poison Control 404-616-9000 Probate Court 678-493-6160 Cherokee County Senior Services 770-345-5320 Suicide/Crisis Counseling 800-784-2433 United Way Helpline 211
Rob’s Rescues continued from page 70
neighborhood recently we saw him, and BearBear was in bad shape with fleas and losing his hair. I took the dog in my patrol car to Grace at the W-Underdogs (See Rob’s article from August 2018). He got a bath and haircut and I brought him back to his owner a new dog! Another of my favorite stories is about a dog we named Smokey. He was rescued unconscious from outside an apartment complex fire. He was given CPR, and when the ambulance crew arrived they brought him around with a doggie oxygen mask. He went on to be adopted by a wonderful family.
How can I help you?
Spread awareness of the people that are available to help. If you make human lives better you make animals’ lives better. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the March competition, "Mechanical!"
Color Print:
1st Dayle Geroski "Clockwork Green"
2nd Russ Miller "Antique Iron"
Digital Projection:
1st Russ Miller "Have A Seat"
Above, 3rd Dean Kelley "Timeless." Right, HM Patrick Moore "The Geiser" 88
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2nd Chastaine Kendrick "Wild Ride"
3rd Rick
The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North St., Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net.
k Sapp "Vice Squad Member"
HM Eillene Kirk "Wheels"
Monochromatic:
1st Eillene Kirk "Short Wave"
2nd Russ Miller "Cubby"
HM Rebecca Blackwell "A Stitch in Time"
3rd Chastaine Kendrick "Out of Date" TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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REFERENCE
TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org. Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen, 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org. Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com. Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. 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.
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Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org
Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org. Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.
Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home. The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
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. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.
Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.
Male Veteran Support Group
Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Light snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/ spotlight/woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.
VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366.
Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.
CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS
AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com.
Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. third Saturday at American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure Street, Canton. www.cherokeecounty.gop. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES
Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net.
Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687.
Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org
Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org.
Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514. Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com.
Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org.
Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com
Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org
ORTHODOX
St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org
Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org
Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net
ROMAN CATHOLIC
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com
UNITED METHODIST Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247 www.ballgroundumc.org
Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org
OTHERS
Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock
678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
May 2019
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.animalatlanta.com
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Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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Towne Lake Pet Care 404-907-9778 www.townelakepetcare.com
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ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Jones Family Law 770-479-1050 www.jonesfamilylawfirm.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.nelsoneldercarelaw.com AUTOMOTIVE Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
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Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
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Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com
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Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 17 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com
INWDSTK inwdstk.org/events
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Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
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Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 50 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.drwilliamsorthodontics.com
Goshen Homes 770-345-9535 www.goshenvalley.org/homes
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Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com
Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
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DRY CLEANING
Papa’s Pantry 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org
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CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
Designer Cleaners 770-592-2990
CHIROPRACTIC Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com
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Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
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CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com
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Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662
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Polish Nails Spa 678-324-1508
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Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
Salon Gloss 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz
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Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com
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Salon & Spa Venéssa 770-591-2079 www.salonvenessa.com
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Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com
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BEAUTY SALON & SPA
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EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING 57
Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830 www.givingcareathome.com
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
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FITNESS Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.clubpilates.com/woodstock
DENTAL
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Answer Key 678-761-6364 www.answer-key.org
Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.CitadelWealthCare.com
Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com
Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898
Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 71 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com
R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
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FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com
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HEALTH & WELLNESS 13
Your CBD Store 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com
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HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock
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CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661
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ClearView soft wash & pressure washing 61 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
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Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com
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Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
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Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
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L. Bean Interiors 770-824-8386
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Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
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Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
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Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com
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Southern Air Pros 770-713-0168 www.southernairpros.com
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Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
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Townlake Handyman Service 770-966-2945
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates Canton: 678-593-1295 Woodstock: 770-926-5459 www.atlantagastro.com
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Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology 43 Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.atlantagynonc.com Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Drug Studies America 678-581-5252 www.drugstudies.net
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Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 59 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com North Atlanta Primary Care 770-442-1911 www.napc.md North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com North Georgia OB/GYN Specialists 770-926-9229 www.NorthGaOBGYN.com
15
67
9
Northside Hospital Cherokee 770-517-6636 www.Northside.com/orthopedic
35
Plastic Surgery Center of the South 44 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
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Landscape Matters 770-403-5813 www.landscapemattersinc.com
17
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
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Primary Care Plus, PC 678-574-3000 Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com
11
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REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES
PHOTOGRAPHY
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 57 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-500-8099 www.soliellaurelcanyon.com
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Terrell Real Estate/ Remax 770-331-4403 www.toddterrell.com
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RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT CYFA 83 www.cyfa.org Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
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Etowah Football Youth Camp www.etowaheaglesfootball.com
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Greenprints Alliance Trailfest www.trailfest.fun
3
Golfing Fore! The Children www.serviceleague.net
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Suntex Boat Club 770-331-2040 www.suntexboatclub.com
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RESTAURANTS/FOOD
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INSURANCE State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net
J. King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.jkingimages.com
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Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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Broadus Realty Group Cover, 3, 48, 49 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
Ed Selby 678-860-1546 www.edselbyphoto.com
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Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com
9
Copper Coin Coffee Inside front, 18 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910
7
RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
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Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-3014 www.wbu.com/woodstock
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SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
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TAX COMMISSIONER Cherokee County Tax Commissioner 47 www.taxcommissioner.cherokeega.com TOWNELAKER | May 2019
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.
At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400
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TOWNELAKER | May 2019