5-21 Townelaker webfinal.pdf by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Contents

Contributors

May 2021

22 Chantel Adams 46 Don Akridge

32 Candy Baylor

S3 Volleyball

54 Danny Branom 50 Stacy Brown

On the Cover

Club athletes Carra Sassack, left and on the cover, and Ashley Vincent after their 2019 win in the 16-and-under division at the AVP Junior National Championship. Sassack trains at the S3 Badger Creek location and is verbally committed to play beach volleyball at Florida State University.

52 Charlice Byrd

70 Katie Caldwell

56 CCWSA Environmental Affairs Department 14 Cherokee Office of Economic Development 34 Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Pages 44 & 45

Cover photo by Dan Duren

66 Tiffany Hughes

38 Harry Johnston

And the Winners Are …

Congratulations to the winners of our 2021 Readers’ Choice contest.

Neighborhood Fun

New Eagle Watch group introduces children to butterfly gardening.

30 Ann Litrel

64 Rob Macmillan

60 20 36 74 48 18

Rev. Elizabeth Milford Erika Neldner

Carolyn Puckett John Rodgers

Northside Hospital Susan Schulz

In Every Issue

4 Around Towne 8 Local News

12 Celebrations 26 Noteworthy

40 County Commission Highlights 42 Everyday Angels

62 Towne Lake Dining Guide 64 Rob’s Rescues

68 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 72 Community Calendar 74 Library Events 76 School News

78 Recent Home Sales

Check This Out!

In honor of Little Free Library month, learn the history of the libraries and where you can find them.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

80 Cherokee Photography Club 82 Community of Faith

84 Clubs & Organizations

86 Directory of Advertisers

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Around Towne Letter From the Editor

There’s something you should know about me. It will explain a lot. I am a spoiled rotten only child – admittedly no longer a child, but some traits remain. My mom and dad really did spoil me. I’m sure it was because I was so precious, adorable and easy to please. Not because I would throw tantrums or fuss until I got my way. Not at all. And not because of the time I locked our car doors, because I didn’t want the kids I was playing with to take my toys. I’m sure my dad was tickled pink with me that day. I’m sharing that to explain why I love birthdays so much. Even as I get older, I don’t mind celebrating, because it means that I get cake and presents. My children make an effort to spend time with me and shower me with praise. Geez, even writing that makes me cringe – such an only-child thing to say. But it’s true! I remember reading the “5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman, and having a tough time deciding which is mine. Between words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts, how can anyone be expected to choose? In this celebratory spirit, I’m thrilled to share with you that Aroundabout Local Media is turning 25 next month! It’s exciting to think that we’ve been a staple in the community for so long, starting with the TowneLaker magazine in 1996. We’ve grown up with many of you, celebrating milestones, keeping you up to date on what’s happening in the area … pretty much partners in life, the way I see it. I have a favor to ask. I’d like to hear from anyone who wants to share what the TowneLaker has meant to them throughout the last 25 years, or presently. We’d love to share your thoughts or personal experiences in our 25th anniversary issue next month. Contact me at candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com, or 770-6153309. Here’s your chance to be mentioned in the June issue of Cherokee County’s longest running community magazine! Now, don’t worry. I don’t expect any gifts, words of praise, hugs, or for y’all to show up to clean my house. While I wouldn’t turn away anything (said the spoiled rotten only child), I do have a suggestion. Consider this month’s kindness challenge, and bless someone you know – or a stranger – with a gift card! The blessing will be all yours, I’m sure.

Welcome!

Please join us in welcoming

Jessica Forrester to the

Aroundabout Local Media team as an assistant editor. The Canton native is a member of McHelen Baptist Church, enjoys serving her community and attending local events. This month, she and Andrew Markley will celebrate their one year wedding anniversary!

What’s New

Furniture Fashions and Sleep Solutions

has opened at 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 380, Woodstock. The independent retail furniture, mattress and home decor store offers a variety of unique and distinctive furniture, Amish handcrafted mattresses, area rugs, farmhouse decor and unique wall art. 770-779-9486. www.furniturefashionsandsleep.com.

What’s Coming

Northside Hospital Cherokee is getting two new floors – floors nine and 10 – and the emergency department is expanding with 22 new rooms and additional space for imaging. The projects will be completed by the end of 2021. Thirteen homes in Cherokee County are part of the

2021 Atlanta Parade of Homes, a free, self-guided

tour that takes place May 1-2 and May 8-9. Presented by the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, many of the homes are decorated models featuring the latest design trends in a variety of sizes, layouts and architectural styles, including entry-level, townhomes and larger and more elegant custom homes. Details are available at www.ATLHomesParade.com.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting

May

Card Someone. Buy someone a gift card for a tasty cup of

coffee or quick lunch. The price isn’t a factor; a $5 gift card is enough to bring a smile! You may want to consider leaving your server one as a tip.

Polished Peach Car Wash

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

1490 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 30189 770-592-8102. www.polishedpeachcarwash.com.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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

Around Acworth | Around Canton Around Woodstock | TowneLaker

Our Mission

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

Results With Us “Working with the TowneLaker magazine has been an excellent experience for our business. Their staff is extremely professional, and the quality of their work is top-tier. We received a substantial amount of new business as a result of being on the front cover of the magazine. I wholeheartedly recommend the TowneLaker's platform as an opportunity for businesses small and large to build your local reputation and to get the attention of new and existing customers!” — Tim McWhirter, Canton Termite & Pest Control, Inc.

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

Managing Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Assistant Editor Jessica Forrester 770-615-3318 Jessica@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Social Media Manager Kathryn Holt Kat@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Market & Advertising Specialist Michelle Smith Michelle.Smith@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Advertise With Us

Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com

Get Social With Us!

TowneLakerMagazine @Townelaker townelakermagazine

www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | May 2021

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to help local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,620 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 780 are placed in racks in the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright 2021. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 Volume 25, Issue 12

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Local News Rental Assistance Available Through MUST

Dr. Mark A. Roberts brings 25 years of private higher education experience to his role as Reinhardt’s new president.

Roberts Named Reinhardt University President Reinhardt University’s Board of Trustees appointed Mark A. Roberts, Ph.D., as the 21st president of the university. Roberts assumed his role on April 7. “Throughout Dr. Roberts’s distinguished career, and during the past several years as Reinhardt’s provost, executive vice president and interim president, Dr. Roberts has proven to be a highly respected and effective leader, who can guide and elevate Reinhardt during a time of tremendous opportunity in providing the education for today’s students to thrive in a very complex and changing world,” Board of Trustees Chairman Ken White said. 8

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

The online application portal for Cherokee County residents to apply for rental assistance is live. MUST Ministries has launched the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) on behalf of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. The board approved allocating $4.5 million received from the U.S. Treasury to MUST Ministries to distribute relief funds to eligible residents who are having trouble paying rent and utilities because of the pandemic. The funds were part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021 legislation, which included an allocation of $25 billion to states and local governments to aid with rent, utilities and other expenses related to housing. Applicants must live in Cherokee County and must meet requirements highlighted by the Act, including income requirements, unemployment qualification and proof of hardship related to COVID-19. Eligible households may receive up to 12 months of assistance, plus an additional three months if it is determined that the extra months are needed to ensure housing stability and funds are available. The funding amounts will be determined by household income and total monthly rent and utilities. MUST Ministries is hosting an online application portal at www. mustministries.org/cherokee-co. For more information, call 770-790-3926 or 770-790-3927.

Alumni Organization Announces New Benefits The Reinhardt Alumni Organization, better known as The 1883 Club, is offering new benefits to members. Once an alum (or faculty, staff, friend) joins, they will receive documents and links to opportunities for the following benefits:

• Entrance in and access to the new alumni directory to reconnect with classmates. • One preferred business ad in the directory. • Advanced invitations and promotions for cultural events, athletic competitions, arts experiences, and other campus events. • Exclusive invitations to on-campus and community-based alumni networking events. • Access to the Hill Freeman Library & Spruill Learning Center, and its computers, printers, copiers and more than 75,000 publications. • Reinhardt’s 7.5 miles of trails for hiking, biking and camping. • Reinhardt’s disc golf course. • Rental discounts on event spaces, such as the Reinhardt University Theater and the Bannister Glasshouse. • Access to resume advice, job board listings, online career fairs, and connections to employers who are hiring, through RU Works Purple Briefcase. For more information, visit www.reinhardt.edu/give/alumni-org.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Local News

Attending the dedication of the loaner station are, from left: Chief Chad Arp of Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services; Lisa Grisham, Safe Kids Cherokee County Coordinator; Division Director Jordan Wood, Cherokee Recreation and Parks; Captain Hunter Baird, Tow Boat U.S.; Lead Ranger Chris Purvis, Allatoona Lake, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Boater Credits Life Jacket for Escaping Injury When Ruddy Morrow spotted the new life jacket loaner station on Allatoona Lake recently, it reminded him to wear his life jacket while on his boat. That’s a move that possibly saved his life. Morrow was returning to the boat ramp at Cherokee Mills Park park when he ran aground and was tossed overboard into Allatoona Lake. Although Morrow sustained no injuries, he credits the newly installed loaner station for keeping him safe. Loaner stations have been

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

installed at Cherokee Mills Park, located at 6900 Bells Ferry Road in Woodstock, and Field’s Landing Park, located at 600 Fields Landing Drive in Canton. The new “use and return” stations were provided through a partnership between Safe Kids Cherokee County and Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency. “2020 was a record year for boaters, kayakers, canoers and paddle boarders on our lake, and it’s looking like 2021 will be no different,” Safe Kids Cherokee

County Coordinator Lisa Grisham said. “With the increase in people, there is always an increase in risk. We hope the addition of the new and easily accessible loaner stations will serve as a reminder to remain safe in the water.” Each of the new loaner stations includes information provided by the BoatUS Foundation to help users correctly size and wear the life jackets. For additional safety information, visit Safe Kids Cherokee County at www.safekidscherokeecounty.org.

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TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Celebrations!

MUST Celebrates 50 years of miracles

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!

Email to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com June deadline is May 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

SUBMITTED BY MUST MINISTRIES

Haven Holiday

Age 3 on May 10 Happy third birthday! We love you, Mommy and Daddy

Veer Lamba

Congratulations Veer for your First Degree Black Belt! You are the best and always will be! You possess dedication, desire and determination to achieve this esteemed rank. Wish you many many more successes in life. With lots of love, Dada, Dadi, Saanvi, Papa, Mummy

Silas Davis

Age 6 on May 28 Hi buddy! I hope you have an amazing birthday! We can’t wait to play Among Us with you and eat yummy cake on your special day! Happy birthday! Love, Summer, Daniel, Levi, Mommy and Daddy

Sorsha N. Aguirre

Age 21 on May 27 Happy 21st birthday baby girl! We love you and are super proud of you. 12

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Parker

Age 7 on May 8 Happy seventh birthday Parker! We love you so much!! Mommy, Daddy and Gracie

MUST Ministries has grown from a one-room food pantry and clothing closet to a multi-milliondollar nonprofit that distributed 2.58 million pounds of food during the pandemic year, and served more than 180,000 people. The number of people receiving food, housing, emergency shelter, jobs, health care and clothing often meant clients came more than once for help, but the record number of those in need has swelled beyond anything imaginable by the early supporters in 1971. MUST has a location in Canton, as well as Marietta. “MUST Ministries exists to serve people, and serve them with compassion,” said MUST President and CEO Ike Reighard. “Every person that comes through the doors of any of our facilities is special and has a story to tell.” “A MUST miracle story I witnessed involved a lady from California whose husband died when she was in her early 30s,” recalled former MUST employee Carol Wisdom, who now serves on the Board of Directors. “She didn’t have much money or life insurance, so she decided to drive to Georgia with her 6-year-old because her best friend lived here. When she got here, her friend said she could only stay for a few days, but told her about MUST. “She was so distressed that she and her son had to stay in a homeless shelter. Volunteers stayed up all night to wash and dry their clothes and, when she awoke, she knew she would make it through, because people at MUST cared and were helping her. MUST helped her get a job and an apartment. She and her son later bought a house, she remarried and they have had a fulfilling life. It was a life transformed by MUST.” There have been thousands of success stories over the years, but many steps had to be taken to develop the full, comprehensive wraparound services that help pull people out of poverty. The 50-year journey began when a youth minister encouraged his students to help others, and, as they started seeing needs, and other churches joined in, MUST’s platform was established. “As we reflect on how MUST has grown in the past 50 years, even within the last year despite the pandemic, we look forward to what the future holds,” Reighard said. “MUST is poised to not only continue helping people in the 10 counties we currently serve, but also expand throughout metro Atlanta. We are so blessed that we are able to impact lives and experience the miracles of transformed lives.”

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Earn While You Learn With Internships SUBMITTED BY THE CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) has partnered with the Cherokee County School District to provide summer employment opportunities for rising high school juniors and seniors as part of the fourth annual Cherokee Summer Internship Program. The interactive, mentorship-based program runs from June 7 to July 16. “The Cherokee Summer Internship Program challenges students to apply classroom knowledge to the real world,” COED President Misti Martin said. “Through this interactive experience, students are able to work one-on-one with local employers, offer their unique talents to the workplace, and build lifelong skills.” COED launched the Cherokee Summer Internship Program in spring, 2018, to cultivate local talent and raise awareness of Cherokee’s diverse, high-quality career opportunities. The six-week program offers paid, real-world experience at Cherokee-based companies. In addition to cultivating local talent, the program helps employers give back to the community, find future talent, and make progress on special projects. “These internships are an outstanding opportunity for our students to spend their summer break learning about careers in their community, while also earning money for their time,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “We’re so thankful to the Office of Economic Development and the participating businesses for continuing to offer this program to our students.” Woodstock-based manufacturing company Roytec Industries has participated from the beginning. 14

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Roytec Industries summer intern Annie Axelsson works with trainer Teresa Munoz.

Through Roytec’s specialized training program, Roytec University, students are given personalized on-the-job training to increase productivity and learn the fundamentals of manufacturing. “Each student intern Roytec employed through the Cherokee Summer Internship Program will attend Roytec University, which prepares them to work in several key roles of manufacturing,” Roytec Training Manager Tim May said. “This internship opens the door for continued employment during the school year through the CCSD Work-Based Learning program, and potential full-time career opportunities after graduation.” “Being a part of the Cherokee Summer Internship Program

was an amazing experience for me,” 2020 Roytec intern Annie Axelsson said. “It allowed me to take the first real steps in building my career and helped me learn so much about my dream job.” Students accepted into the program also will receive critical soft-skills training in financial literacy, workplace safety and communications as part of orientation. Interested students can apply and learn about available positions by visiting cherokeega. org/internship. Applicants are encouraged to check the COED website periodically for updates, as additional internships will become available over the next two months. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention and expansion. www.cherokeega.org.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Medical Services

Audiologist: Dr. Nicole Shields, Wellstar ENT

Cardiologist: Dr. Howard Snapper, Wellstar Medical Group — Woodstock Chiropractor: Ribley Family Chiropractic Dentist: Baird & Baird Family Dentistry

Dermatologist: Atlanta North Dermatology & Skin Care ENT/Allergy Physician: Dr. Sandra Roberson, Atlanta Allergy & Asthma

It's Time to

Celebrate!

Congratulations to the victors in this year’s poll!

We are excited to celebrate you, and the contributions you make to our community. We know you’re proud and ready to announce your success, so we have prepared a few items to help you celebrate:

1. Window cling 2. Certificate PDF 3. Award JPG to post on your website, Facebook page or other social media outlets.

To receive these items, send an email to readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com with the following information:

Gastroenterologist: Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

General Practitioner: Dr. Keerthi Mulamalla, Wellstar Towne Lake Lung and Sleep Specialists: Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists

Obstetrician/Gynecologist: Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists Optometrist/Ophthalmologist: Towne Lake Eye Associates Orthodontist: Family Orthodontics

Orthopedic: Pinnacle Orthopaedic Associates

Pediatric Dentist: Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock Pediatrician: Northside Pediatrics Pharmacist: Publix, Rose Creek

Physical Therapist: Pinnacle Orthopaedic Associates, Stone Bridge Parkway Podiatrist: Dr. Steven Weiskopf, Village Podiatry Centers Surgeon: Cherokee Women’s Health Specialist Veterinarian: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

Retail

Animal/Pet Supplies: Sassy Paws Pet Boutique Bakery: Smallcakes Cupcakery

• Business name and mailing address. • Contact person’s email address and phone number.

Clothing Boutique: Becca B, A Kids Party Boutique

It’s essential for us to have your contact information so we can make sure you have all you need to celebrate properly! Another way to share your good news — and thank the community for voting for you — is through a thank you ad. For more information on ads email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Garden Center/Nursery: Pike Nurseries, Towne Lake Parkway

Consignment Store: Urban Renewal Florist: Floral Designs by HC

Gifts/Home Decor: Candles By Jadyn

Health/Wellness: Natures Corner Market Jeweler: Art Jewelers

Liquor Store: Bullocks Wine and Spirits

Recreational Vehicles: Superior Motorsports Specialty Foods: Sprouts Farmers Market Thrift Store: Seeds Thrift Store Tires: Discount Tire

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Other Services

Accountant: Kinsey CPA

Home Improvement/Remodeling: The Townlake Handyman Service LLC

Assisted Living/Memory Care Facility: Oaks at Towne Lake

Insurance: State Farm, Steve Cannon — Towne Lake

Automotive: Alpha & Omega Automotive, Inc.

IT/Web support: Big Blue Z, Lee Martin

Adult Day Care/Respite: Silver Companions Attorney: Nelson Elder Care Law

Interior Design: H Design Group

Bank/Credit Union: Credit Union of Georgia

Landscaping/Lawn Care: Po Boys Landscape Group

Barber Shop: Dave’s Barber

Business Support: Towne Lake Business Association Carwash: The Silver Bullet Car Wash

Counseling: Hillside Counseling Center

Day Care/Preschool: Hillside Preschool & Academy Day Spa: Jian Kang Spa & Massage

Digital Marketing: LūME Sales & Marketing Agency — Woodstock

Mortgage Lending: Credit Union of Georgia Moving Services: Bull Dawg Moving LLC Music Lessons: Ken Stanton Music Nail Salon: Big Apple Nail & Spa

Painter: Pike’s Professional Painting Pest Control: Mosquito Authority

Pet Boarding: Destination Pet of Woodstock

Pet Grooming: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

Dog Trainer: Ironclad K9 Academy

Pet Sitting: Premier Pet Services

Financial Adviser: Andrew Masseo, Merrill Lynch

Plumber: Towne Plumber

Funeral Home: Poole Funeral Home & Cremation Services at Woodstock

Realtor: Ursula & Associates, Keller Williams Realty Partners

Hair Salon: Michael Christian Salon & Dry Bar

Transportation: EconoRides Airport Shuttle

Dry Cleaners: Mik Cleaners

Photographer: Heather Stevens, Joyful Day Photography

Fitness/Health Club: Burn Boot Camp

Private School: Hillside Preschool & Academy

Home Cleaning: Molly Maid

Restaurants

American: Gameday Fresh Grill Asian: Izumi Asian Bistro

Speech Therapy: Towne Lake Pediatric Speech Therapy

Travel Agency: Free Bird Cruises & All-Inclusive Resorts

Recreation and Entertainment

Barbecue: J.D.’s Bar-B-Que

Art Studio/Gallery: Paper. Scissors. Cake. Art Studio

Brunch: Donovan’s Irish Cobbler

Equestrian: Wyatt Equestrian, The Stable of Towne Lake

Coffee Shop: Starbucks, Towne Lake Parkway

Gymnastics Center: World of Gymnastics & Cheer

Italian: Tuscany Italian Restaurant

Summer Camp: Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA

Breakfast: Maple Street Biscuit Co.

Dance Studio: FireSpark! Choreography

Burger: Cheeseburger Bobby’s

Golf Course/Club: Towne Lake Hills Golf Club

Fine Dining: Tuscany Italian Restaurant

Marina: Victoria Harbour Marina

Kid Friendly: Gameday Fresh Grill Mexican: La Parilla

Pizzeria: Mellow Mushroom

Seafood: Kani House Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi

Congratulations! TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Husband Honors Wife’s Memory

BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

Percilla with her youngest child, before her death in 2018.

The tragic loss of Percilla Hodge turned into her husband’s quest to raise funds to fight the disease that took her life. The young widower started PAMAH Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness of the deadly disease meningitis, supporting families affected by it, and funding research. Meet the inspiration for this foundation: Percilla Ann Marie April-Hodge (PAMAH). “Percilla loved everything about the Thanksgiving holiday. She loved it so much we would often tease her about her plans for Thanksgiving dinner, which normally started in the month of July,” husband Shaquille said. “Her greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. Known as a peacemaker, she loved to see others joyful.” During the summer of 2018, however, everything changed for the Hodge family. While on a July family trip to the beach, Percilla complained of a headache. Not wanting to spoil the kids’ day of fun, she told her husband she was heading back to the room to take medicine and lie down. Percilla went to the emergency room that evening, and was diagnosed with pneumococcal meningitis. Even though treatment started immediately, she didn’t recover. She left behind her husband and three children - Kayden, 7; Korey, 5; Khalini Grace, 3 months - along with many family members and friends. Because of Percilla’s love of bringing people together, Shaquille asked, “What can I do to honor her?” PAMAH Foundation launched in the fall of 2018. “We work to educate the community, advocate for victims of the disease, and promote prevention through vaccinations. “PAMAH’s mission is community oriented,” said Danielle Hodge, board member and Percilla’s mother-inlaw. “One of our core values includes the idea of cultivating compassion, which is to foster the growth of sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with the desire to alleviate it. This is the reason PAMAH began. As a result, we believe it is our sacred responsibility to help our neighbors in every way we can.” The staff and volunteers at PAMAH raise awareness in the community through events such as the car show, Pork and Torque, which was held in April and featured special guest Shaquille O’Neal. This month, PAMAH is sponsoring its 30 in Thirty Challenge, asking participants to form teams to run, walk, bike or skate to raise funds. Details can be found on the events tab at www.pamahfoundation.org.

Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. She loves serving at Woodstock City Church. Connect with her at www.susanbrowningschulz.com.

Umbrellas were almost as popular as the cars during the rainsoaked Pork and Torque fundraiser. Photo courtesy of Brittany Weir. TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Through Nonprofit

PAMAH awards three $1,000 scholarships annually to Cherokee County School District graduating seniors. Students can apply through the website before the May 26 deadline. To learn more about the disease, donate or volunteer, call 678-926-9507 or email info@pamahfoundation.org.

Possible Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis (source mayoclinic.org)

• Sudden high fever • Stiff neck • Severe headache that seems different

Pork and Torque organizer Shaquille Hodge with Kahli Pierce, Shaquille O’Neal and Manny Blackburn. Photos courtesy of Brittany Weir.

Jaudon Beaton brought his car to the April fundraiser.

• • • • • • •

from normal Headache with nausea and vomiting Confusion or difficulty concentrating Seizures Sleepiness or difficult waking Sensitivity to light No appetite or thirst Skin rash (sometimes, such as in meningococcal meningitis)

PAMAH staff members Executive Director Danielle Hodge, left, founder Shaquille Hodge, and Program Director Maritza Gonzalez. TOWNELAKER | May 2021

JERRY COOPER

County manager retires after 30-plus-year career in public administration. BY ERIKA NELDNER 20

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

young man from Arkansas made his way to Georgia nearly 30 years ago to pursue a career in public administration. Little did he know he would lead one of Georgia’s fastest growing counties as it transitioned from a bedroom community to a destination location, and went through a population boom and the Great Recession. After serving in the U.S. Navy and graduating from the University of Arkansas, Cherokee County Manager Jerry Cooper began his work in public administration in Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 1988, later relocating to Newnan, Georgia. Just a few years later, Cooper would take on a leadership position in Woodstock, before his final move to Cherokee County, where he has had a successful career as county manager. When Cooper was selected to lead Cherokee County in 2001, he never imagined it would be the job from which he retired. “Back then, I did not realize I would have the opportunity to serve as county manager for 20 years, especially considering the average tenure of a manager is seven to eight years,” Cooper said. “I have had the fortune of serving the best commissioners and employees in the country — each of us working together with community leaders to make this county a great place to live and raise children, work and play.” Over the past 20 years, Cherokee County has evolved from a quiet suburban county to a destination for quality family living, corporate relocation and entertainment. That’s due in large part to Cooper’s leadership. At the time, Cherokee County’s population was just over 141,000 people. Today, 270,000 call Cherokee home. Effective leadership allowed the county to grow responsibly, while maintaining its identity of a strong community with hospitality. Cooper was not immune to the challenges of leading a county in both good times and bad, but his leadership and fiscal responsibility allowed Cherokee to weather the Great Recession, double parks and green space, enhance fire and emergency services, achieve exceptional public safety and the lowest crime rate in the region, while lowering the tax burden on citizens to the lowest in the metro area. “Although a challenge to manage, the growth has provided us with many opportunities to make lives better for our citizens,” he said. Chairman Harry Johnston, who has served on the Board of Commissioners for many years, has witnessed Cooper’s work firsthand.

MUST Dance

Celebrity Ballroom Dance Studio presents a fundraiser for MUST Ministries, 7 p.m. July 17 at Piedmont Church 6, 570 Piedmont Road, Marietta. Jerry Cooper will be dancing in MUST’s version of “Dancing With the Stars.” An after-party will be held at the dance studio. For details and tickets, visit www.mustministries.org.

“Cherokee County clearly has the best combination of excellent services and low taxes in Georgia. No other county even comes close,” Johnston said. “Jerry Cooper is the principal architect of that exceptional value, through his masterful financial management over the past 20 years.” While leadership played a key role in Cherokee County’s success, Cooper is quick to credit those he served alongside, including elected officials, community leaders and county staff. “The most rewarding career accomplishment is the opportunity I have had to work with so many wonderful people, and (I am) so proud of what we have achieved together,” Cooper said. As Cherokee County prepares for a transition in leadership, Cooper encourages whomever fills his role always to remain humble, commit to honesty and trustworthiness, and to lead by example. “I have learned a great deal over the last 20 years, and I encourage the next county manager to surround yourself with great leaders, build strong relationships, work closely with the Board of Commissioners and other elected officials, invest in others, work hard, listen, and always be willing to learn,” he said, adding it’s also important to be of service to the community in volunteer roles. “Commit to helping children and families in need, and be part of the great service organizations in our county.” Cooper will retire at the end of May and looks forward to playing golf, vacationing with his wife, Sherry, continuing his volunteer efforts to help children and families in need, and consulting. “I have so much to be thankful for in my career and personal life,” he said. “I attribute my success to God’s grace, a loving and supportive wife, family and friends, great employees, and the opportunity to work with the best commissioners and elected officials in the entire state of Georgia.”

Erika Neldner is the communications director for Cherokee County. Erika, married with two boys, has lived and worked in Cherokee County since 2005.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Not Your Mama’s BY CHANTEL ADAMS

Thanks to a proclamation by President Woodrow Wilson in 1914, Americans have been off icially celebrating Mother’s Day for more than a century. As they say, though, “the times they are a changin,’” and this year you might need some nontraditional ideas for lifting up the moms in your life. Whether you’re getting together for an in-person gathering or simply honoring your mom from afar, I’ve got a dozen ideas that will be sure to make her — and all the other moms in your life — feel extra special this year. (Who needs roses after all?)

Download these free encouragement cards and mail to a mom who lives far away. Everyone loves to get good mail! Get yours here: www.dayspring.com/ecards/category/view/ category/209.

Send your mom a YouTube link to a song that reminds you of her. Got a friend who’s a new mom and needs a smile? She’ll love this! Check out Boyz 2 Men’s “A Song for Mama” or “I’ll Always Love My Mama” by The Intruders.

Order a set of Expo markers and write an encouraging message on her front window or glass door. You can get really creative! Hearts, roses, the sky’s the limit!

Host a picnic in the grass at the amphitheater. Make a charcuterie box. The new Vintage Barrel Wine Market and Deli and Leaning Ladder have everything you need. Think: pasta, chocolate, biscuits, cheeses, salami and, of course, wine. And when you’re finished, go to Vingenzo’s and sip affogatos out on the patio.

Treat Mom to a picnic in the grass at the amphitheater in downtown Woodstock. Photo of Matt and Aura Bryan by Sara Stewart Photography.

Make a homemade sign: MOM of the WEEK, STAR Mom, BEST Mom EVER, etc. and set it up in your mom’s yard. Want to get really fancy? Cowan Signs in Woodstock can make a lawn sign that will really stand up to the elements. Continued on Page 24

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Not Your Mama’s

Purchase paper lanterns, write wishes for your mom and your mom friends, and send them soaring into the night sky. Take a video and post to social media.

The simplest idea of all: Leave a porch pot—fresh picked flowers in a mason jar and a sweet note. If your mom has a sweet tooth, Nothing Bundt Cakes offers a “Flowers for Mom” bundtini special.

Mail your mom a series of encouraging letters from a “Secret Admirer.” Drop clues for a scavenger hunt, and in the last letter, include a gift card for a favorite restaurant. Check out the new Salty Mule in Canton. Make a date and enjoy each other’s company.

Purchase something that reminds you of your mom or your childhood. Toys bring joy. The Wright Stuff Records & Collectibles is your vintage onestop shop. Include a note and the story behind the toy, or splurge for a game that you can all play the next time you’re together.

10.

On Mother’s Day, use your social media to take a moment to remember all the moms in your life. Remember to comment, like, and share your friends’ posts. Post a favorite photo or a memory from years past.

11.

Send your favorite mom one of your favorite things. Love to stay at a cabin in the mountains? Make a reservation for your mom to get some much-deserved R&R. Got a favorite book? FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock will hook you up. Got a favorite scent—something that reminds you of mom? Pineapple Park has a wonderful signature scented plug-in that invites moms everywhere to say, “Welcome home.”

12.

Print out photos of your mom or mom friends, glue them to popsicle sticks, and take pictures of yourself doing fun things “with” those who are far away but close at heart. “Hey, we’re having a sno-cone!” Or “Look, we’re riding bikes!” The Noonday Trail is beautiful this time of year. Stop at Snowmies and get a treat to reward yourself, too. Let your creativity shine. Whatever you choose to do, you will be making memories to last a lifetime.

Leave Mom a surprise bouquet of flowers on her front porch. Photo by Virginia Starr.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Chantel Adams, founder of Mission Driven Woman, is on the board for Highland Rivers Health, volunteers at Woodstock City Church, and lives in Woodstock with her husband and four kids.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Atlanta Eats — in Woodstock!

Bustling downtown Woodstock soon will get airtime on Peachtree TV. A film crew from “Atlanta Eats” spent a few hours at Canyons Fresh Grill in downtown Woodstock recently, filming for an upcoming episode. “Atlanta Eats” is a local television show that highlights the best of food and dining in Atlanta. Canyons is a family-owned restaurant; Mark and Sonny Crumpton opened Canyons in 2008, followed by Gameday on Eagle Drive in 2014. Mark and Colleen’s children, Kelly and Cameron, along with Kelly’s fiance, Carson Hatch, also work in the business. “Atlanta Eats” airs on Peachtree TV weekdays at 9 a.m., Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. No air date has been announced, but it’s expected to run sometime in mid- to late May. Check the schedule at atlantaeats.com. “We are lucky enough to have a partner like Sysco food service that allowed us the opportunity to share our brand with ‘Atlanta Eats’,” Sonny Crumpton said. “The whole experience from start to finish was professional and Above, Sonny Crumpton, Greg Gonzalez, Nick Shelton and Carson Hatch are exciting. It really showed off our amazing fresh food and ready for the camera. At the top, the spotlight is on a Jammin’ Bacon and culture that the great city of Woodstock has come to know, Pimento Burger with Crispy Tater Tots, ice cold soda and the Spring Berry for over 13 years.” Salad, with house-made strawberry vinaigrette.

Citizens Recognized for Daring Fire Rescue

Generous Donation Makes Life a Little Easier

The Woodstock Business Club and Reformation Woodstock recently made a donation to Limitless Disabilities, to buy a chair lift. Members of the business club and clients of Limitless Disabilities gathered to celebrate the occasion.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Two citizens who jumped into action to rescue someone from a burning home were awarded the Fire Chief ’s Civilian Valor Award by Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. Fire Chief Tim Prather presented the award to Randall Thomas and Tristan Bush, employees of Cycle Works Sanitation. Bush and Thomas, along with coworker Mark Ogle, received a standing ovation at the presentation, made during a county commission meeting. According to reports, Bush and Ogle were collecting waste on Hollow Drive near Woodstock when Bush heard a woman shouting that her house was on fire. Ogle, who was driving the waste collection vehicle, called 911, while Bush and Thomas entered the splitlevel house to help two residents. They asked the female resident, who had gone back inside, to get out of the house. Bush and Thomas located the wheelchair-bound male resident and carried him out of the house. Assistant Fire Chief Eddie Robinson said that the two men did something that firefighters do routinely. “The difference is, firefighters are highly trained, and they’re equipped to handle these types of hazardous situations. However, these men are not,” Robinson said.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Emergency Food Pantry Continues Through Summer

At Heritage Presbyterian Church (HPC) in Acworth, responding to hunger in the community is part of its core identity. For 30 years, the Jay Weaver Emergency Food Pantry ( JWEFP) has supported neighbors through appointments, mobile food pantries and three school pantries that serve nine Cherokee County schools. In March 2020, as the pandemic closed schools, workplaces and church buildings, Andrea Dean, volunteer director of JWEFP, got to work. The pantry expanded into the fellowship hall and several classrooms, with changes to the entry made to accommodate pallet deliveries. Volunteers committed their time, week after week. Cloth masks were sewn, and additional cleaning supplies were acquired. Grants were written to secure funding, resulting in more than $37,000 awarded to purchase food. “In just a few weeks, a hallmark ministry of this congregation had evolved and adapted to a very new situation, with the intention of meeting the community’s needs for a month or two; then, through summer; then, into fall. By the end of 2020, we decided to extend the expanded drive-up pantry through July, 2021,” the Rev. Elizabeth Milford said. Each week, volunteers (middle schoolers through seniors) meet in small groups to receive donations and purchases, pack boxes, and distribute in a contact-free, drive-up process. What was previously 25-30 families served per month has become 80-100 families served per week, in just under an hour’s time. Each household receives more than 100 pounds of food, cleaning supplies, paper products and hygiene items, when available. In gratitude, the Session honored more than 125 mission volunteers, including many students and community partners, with the Watwood Window of Service award for outstanding efforts in 2020. The church has been named as Etowah High School’s Partner of the Year for 2021.

Volunteers pack food boxes for distribution. 28

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Grace with the shoes she has collected so far.

A Plea for Shoes From a Girl Scout

My name is Grace and I’ve been a Girl Scout for 12 years. I am currently working on my Gold Award project — the highest award a Girl Scout can earn … I run crosscountry and track for my high school, and, like all my teammates, I go through many pairs of shoes every season. Although these sneakers are still in good condition, they are just no longer good to compete in. Instead of throwing them away, I wanted to figure out something else I could do with them. While looking into this issue, I learned that many children from lower income families do not get enough exercise, simply because they cannot afford the proper athletic shoes. This made me realize that I could help our community with my love of running, and it gave me the perfect project for my Gold Award: Second Chance Shoes. Please help me make a difference, by bringing your gently used athletic shoes to The River Church, 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, on May 15, from 10 a.m. to noon. EcoSneaker will take all your donations and provide them to children in need. For more information, email secondchanceshoes123@gmail.com.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Kids lined up for packets of Butterfly Garden seeds at the Easter egg hunt. When planted, they will learn which butterflies live in their community.

Happy to add a butterfly seed packet to their Easter bucket!

Introducing Children to Butterfly Gardening BY ANN LITREL

Hundreds of children lined up in Eagle Watch park on March 21 to search for Easter eggs, meet the Easter Bunny — and receive a gift of a butterfly garden kit! The kit was courtesy of a new group in Eagle Watch, Birds, Bees & Butterflies. The volunteer group is working toward Community Habitat certification for Eagle Watch through the National Wildlife Federation. “We do this by committing to the care of our environment — creating yards and common areas friendly to birds, bees and butterflies. We are here to help our neighbors certify their yards as certified wildlife habitats,” explained Mary Schuster, master gardener and one of the group’s volunteers.

Learn More

For tip sheets and videos to guide you in creating a go-to garden for butterflies, birds and other animals, go to www.nwf. org/Garden-for-Wildlife/About/ Resources.

The Easter Bunny joins volunteers, from left: Denise Stephens, Yasmin Alani, Mary Schuster, Ann Litrel and Diane Tidwell. Center front is the certified wildlife habitat plaque homeowners can order from the National Wildlife Federation, once their yard is certified. 30

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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

Volunteer Yasmin Alani has the attention of a mom and a curious future gardener.

Volunteer Denise Stephens helped show children and parents how to plant the seed packets. This is just one of the outreach activities this group will be doing in the community over the next year, as part of earning community wildlife habitat certification for Eagle Watch.

Instructions and a tiny peat pot make it easy to start these little butterfly garden seeds.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Check It Out! Little Free Library celebrates the love of reading, the joy of sharing in a location near you. BY CANDY BAYLOR

Alexa and Aubree Bedoya choose a book from the Pie Bar library.

Happy Spring and welcome to May, which just so happens to be Little Free Library (LFL) month. If you have never heard of these libraries, you are in for quite the treat. A LFL is a “take a book, return a book” concept that is most commonly seen as a freestanding, small wooden box filled with books. The best part is it’s free! These libraries can be found in communities around the world to share the love of reading. Little Free Library (www.littlefreelibrary.org) is a nonprofit “that builds community, inspires readers and expands book access for all through a global network of volunteer-led little libraries,” according to the website. “Through Little Free Library book exchanges, millions of books are exchanged each year, profoundly increasing access to books for readers of all ages and backgrounds.” Currently, there are more than 100,000 registered libraries in 108 countries These libraries work purely on an honor system. If you choose to take a book, you may also leave one for someone else to enjoy. I first learned about LFLs many years ago when visiting a friend out of state. I noticed her neighbor had a cute replica of a tiny library to house books in her front yard. I absolutely loved the creativity behind the design and also the ability to share books. As an avid reader, I was excited to learn Cherokee County has seven libraries. On my trek to explore them, I was pleasantly

Take a Book, Share a Book

42 million books shared annually

100,000 + Little Free Libraries

100 + Countries 32

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72% of volunteer stewards have met more neighbors because of their Little Free Library

Little Free Libraries In Cherokee County

The following structures are registered at www.littlefreelibrary.org.

E.T. Booth Middle School LFL

6550 Putnam Ford Drive, Woodstock 30189 The Little Free Library at E.T. Booth Middle School was one of the 100-library giveaway recipients celebrating LFL reaching 100,000 book-sharing boxes worldwide. It officially opened Aug. 17, 2020.

Grand Little Free Library Little Free Library at Dupree Park.

surprised to see that many had a variety of books including children’s books, young adult novels, fiction and even cookbooks. I also made it my mission to donate some of my favorite books for others to enjoy. I included children’s books; what better way to spread the love of reading than sharing with children. I took my daughter on my journey because she loves books just as much as her mama. We had fun checking out the treasures to be found at Dupree Park and outside the Pie Bar in Woodstock. I encourage anyone who enjoys reading to visit a Little Free Library, and you may just find your next favorite book. Woodstock resident Candy Baylor is an avid reader, and shares her love of reading with her 1-year-old daughter and the members of her neighborhood book club.

Facts from LittleFreeLibrary.org.

3055 Eagle Watch Drive, Woodstock 30189 Built to serve the community and neighborhood of Eagle Watch, and to honor Grand - a great man who loved reading to his children and grandchildren. The Grand Little Free Library houses books for children and adults and is located near the park and the pool for easy access to its residents and guests.

Lepak Library

314 Creekbend Drive, Woodstock 30188

Cedar Mill Little Library

btonkin44@gmail.com 228 Cedar Mill Lane, Woodstock 30189 A library for the kids and young adults of our community.

Little Free Pie-Brary

hello@orderpiebar.com 8720 Main St., Suite 130, Woodstock 30188 The Little Free Pie-Brary came to be with the simple, kind gesture of a customer, who shared some books with the employees. They thought about making a little library for the office, but instead decided to make one for the community. This library became a part of the store’s “30 Days of Kindness” Project, where Day 5 celebrated “Take A Book, Leave A Book.”

Dupree Park

Karen Wyatt 513 Neese Road, Woodstock 30188 This free library box was built and created by Girl Scout Troop 10421 to give back to the community through the love of reading.

On average, one book is shared in a Little Free Library every day! 92% of people say their neighborhood feels like a friendlier place because of a Little Free Library

Cherokee Charter Academy

2126 Sixes Road, Canton 30114 This library was built and donated to Cherokee Charter Academy by the Dilling Family. Cherokee Charter Academy is a free public charter school with kindergarten through eighth grade. TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Life as a New Mom Requires Self-Care BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC

Mother’s Day is the time to celebrate all the moms in your life, and how exciting for you first-time moms! With a sweet little baby to take care of, you have entered a wonderful season of life. But, with all there is to do, it can be easy to forget that you need to take care of yourself. After all, you have gone through tremendous physical and emotional changes. The following tips may help you adjust, and thrive, to life as a new mom.

• Get more sleep. Sleep when your baby is sleeping. You need a break, and you need sleep. Everything else can wait. • Relax. Do something relaxing when possible. Try listening to music or reading a book.

• Eat well. Relying on comfort food too much will make you feel worse. You don’t need to give up all your goodies, but fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, lean meat, and (not too many) simple carbohydrates will help nourish you back to health — and to your prepregnancy body.

• Hydrate. Drinking enough water after pregnancy is very important to keep your body in balance. This is especially true if you are breastfeeding; dehydration can affect your milk supply.

• Exercise. Try to do some physical activity on most days, such as walking, weights and using elliptical machines. Spring is the perfect time to get outside and push your baby in the stroller.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

• Make things simple. For example, use paper plates and plastic cups to make kitchen cleaning easier. Better yet, have someone else clean the kitchen if possible.

• Make your needs known. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. While women are incredible multitaskers, motherhood can be challenging, so help often is needed. If you take it all on yourself, resentment can grow into anger or depression.

• Be honest. Be open with yourself and others if you are feeling blue. Hormones and the life changes of having a baby can be overwhelming. It’s imperative to share these feelings with your doctor. • Spend time with friends. It is especially helpful to be around other mothers with babies and children of similar ages. This support is important and encouraging as you experience these new changes. By taking care of your physical and emotional health, you will be able enjoy this wonderful time of your life and be the best possible mom for your new bundle of joy. Happy Mother’s Day!

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

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Debunking Outdated Gardening Myths BY CAROLYN PUCKETT, CHEROKEE COUNTY MASTER GARDENER

Everyone knows 98.6 degrees is the normal body temperature, right? Actually, there is a range of normal body temperatures that varies from person to person and by time of day, from 97 to 99 degrees. The 98.6 standard, published more than 100 years ago, is out of date. Similarly, a lot of gardening advice that has been passed on for decades has proven untrue when tested scientifically. Let’s explore five outdated gardening myths we’ve all heard.

MYTH: FACT:

If you have clay soil, add sand to improve the texture.

Adding sand, which is coarse, to fine-particle clay seems to make sense, but it is the wrong thing to do. The pore spaces in a clay soil are small, while those in a sandy soil are large. When mixing the two, the large pore spaces of the sandy soil are filled with the smaller clay particles. The result is a heavier, denser soil with less total pore space. To amend the texture of soil, add compost.

MYTH: FACT:

When transplanting trees or shrubs into native soil, amend the backfill soil with organic matter.

Do not amend the soil you are replacing in the hole when planting a tree or shrub. Yes, add compost to amend your soil, and do add organic matter to the entire bed before you plant annuals or perennials. However, do not add compost to the hole when planting a tree in native soil. Organic matter is more porous, and water will wick away to the finertextured native soil. In the summer, moisture within the planting hole will be depleted by the plant but not replaced by water in the native soil. During wet seasons, water will move quickly through the amended soil only to be held back by the slow draining native soil. The resulting bathtub effect, wherein water accumulates in the planting hole, floods the roots and eventually kills the plant.

MYTH: FACT:

When you transplant, try not to disturb the roots; just take the whole pot-shaped lump of soil/roots and place it into its new home.

Plants with woody roots often need corrective root pruning before transplanting. Containerized plants are notorious for concealing fatal root flaws. It is best to “bare-root” container plants, removing the container medium, so you can correct root flaws. In a healthy, well-watered plant, root pruning at transplant time will induce new root growth and assist in establishment.

MYTH: FACT:

Put coarse material such as sand, gravel, pebbles, or potshards, at the bottom of containers for drainage.

Planting containers must have drainage holes for root aeration, and adding drainage material to containers hinders water movement. Use good potting soil and compost throughout the pot for optimal water conditions and soil structure. 36

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Don’t add compost to the hole when planting a tree in native soil.

MYTH: FACT:

Large quantities of phosphorus promote bloom and stimulate roots.

Unless a soil is deficient, adding phosphate does not help plants. Other than intensively farmed agricultural land, most soils naturally have sufficient phosphorus. Adding more phosphorus is not only a waste of time and money, it can even be bad for ornamentals. Most plants form a partnership with a soil fungus called mycorrhizae that is really good at taking up phosphorus. Add excess phosphorus to the soil, and that symbiotic partnership never develops, and the plant suffers. In addition, excess phosphorus is bad for waterways, promoting algae blooms that deprive water life of oxygen. Get a soil test before adding phosphorus. For more information visit, https://puyallup.wsu.edu/lcs/. When searching online for gardening advice, add the word “extension” to your search term for access to state Cooperative Extension webpages with current and science-based information.

Canton resident Carolyn Puckett is a Cherokee County Master Gardener and Master Naturalist.

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Park Plans Important to Our Future BY HARRY JOHNSTON

One of Cherokee County’s challenges is providing enough parks for its growing population. In 2008, the Board of Commissioners (BOC) saw a need for a substantial increase in parks. The voters agreed, and approved a $90 million bond referendum to buy land and build facilities. Those funds were used for the Aquatics Center, Patriots Park, Veterans Park, the new baseball complex at Kenny Askew Park, and important upgrades at multiple existing parks, including the baseball complex at Hobgood Park. The program funded city park projects, including Woodstock’s trail network and Canton’s Etowah Park. It also paid for land for future parks or permanent green space in southwest Cherokee, the Sutallee community in west Cherokee and two large parcels on the river: one at Yellow Creek Road and another off Old Highway 5, between Canton and Ball Ground. After 13 years, those funds are running out. The last project will be the Buzz, a new indoor recreation complex to be built later this year at Veteran’s Park, named for former BOC Chair L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens. It’s designed for the eventual addition of an adjacent pool. The county recreation team recently completed a public input process, to determine how to use the two properties bought with park bond funds in southwest Cherokee on Highway 92 and Kellogg Creek Road. The community expressed a desire for passive parks, with gathering places and unstructured open space, plus walking trails within the parks, connecting them and throughout the area. That project could cost $30 million, and we don’t have that level of funding available. 38

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Patriots Park, located on 33 acres on Kellogg Creek Road, opened in spring 2017.

Thankfully, Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds have exceeded expectations and can fund a modest initial phase within the next couple of years. In spite of land-use planning and zoning that provides some restraint on residential growth, the county continues to grow rapidly. We need to build out the park properties we have, and buy more for the future. We also need to explore a vision for a countywide connected trail network. Our park bond still has about seven years of payments remaining, but the balance is declining rapidly. We could consider another bond issue, if voters are willing to keep paying the property tax of about $50 per household per year to cover it. The current SPLOST program primarily is used to fund roads and

other infrastructure. It will need to be renewed in the next couple of years, if the voters are willing. We potentially could designate more of those proceeds to parks. We’ve had requests to consider a Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) to drive down property taxes. Almost all other counties in Georgia have a LOST, or a similar Homestead Option Sales Tax (HOST). Up to 20% of HOST funds can be used for capital projects, like parks and roads. These taxes require voter approval, and I’m not promoting either one. But, a HOST could be an alternative to a new park bond, while also providing for property tax reduction and additional road funding. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts. Email me at hjohnston@ cherokeega.com.

Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.

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TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Board of Commissioners

For the full minutes and a schedule of upcoming meetings, visit www.cherokeega.com/BOC. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners is evaluating a new location for the elections office. County Manager Jerry Cooper told commissioners at the April 6 meeting county staff members have evaluated existing properties and, due to cost to purchase and to renovate, is recommending the county consider building a facility to meet the long-term needs. During the last election, the Cherokee County Elections and Voter Registration operated out of two smaller facilities in Canton. The office is in need of additional work and storage space. The board approved an agreement with KRH Architects to develop a concept plan and cost estimate for a new 15,000-square-foot facility, at a cost of $6,500. The plan and cost estimate would come back to the BOC for board members to later decide how to proceed.

Commissioners also:

• Discussed during work session the possibility of moving

the board of commissioners’ work sessions, meetings and planning commission meetings back to Cherokee Hall. The consensus of the board was to go back to the former location for the second meeting in May.

• Proclaimed April Child Abuse Prevention Month. Amy Economopoulos from the Anna Crawford Children’s Center, Marcie Smith from the Children’s Haven, and Brooke Ford from Cherokee County Department of Family and Children’s Services attended to accept the proclamation.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

• Agreed to send a letter to the city of Woodstock addressing their thoughts regarding an annexation of 31.7 acres on Trickum Road just north of Jamerson Road. Chairman Harry Johnston made a motion the county would inform the city of its concerns regarding annexation of a portion of an existing subdivision, and, if the annexation is approved, the owners donate right of way for the county’s planned improvements to Trickum Road. Chairman Harry Johnston’s motion was seconded by Commissioner Richard Weatherby.

• Approved setting a public hearing in May related to revisions to the prohibited uses within the Highway 92 Village Ordinance of the zoning ordinance. Changes include removing prohibited uses of farm and garden machinery and equipment, merchant wholesalers, drive-in movie theaters, and motels, motor courts, hotels, inns and lodges with outside room entrances only.

• The Planning Department received a request from Yanmar Evocenter related to prohibited uses so the business could offer its tractors for sale. The request prompted staff to look deeper into the uses within the overlay. • Approved a professional services agreement with Signature Tennis Courts to reconfigure a double tennis court to a six-court pickleball pod at Kenney Askew Park in an amount not to exceed $25,600 out of grant funds. • Approved an agreement with American Specialty Health Fitness for the Active & Fit, and Silver & Fit programs at the Aquatic Center at no cost to the county.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.

Bob Meyer, 64, originally from and has now been referred to Emory Winship Cancer Carmel, N.Y., and a graduate of Institute due to the difficulty of his case. the Syracuse University School of Bob is not a candidate for a clinical trial, so his next Architecture, spent his career practicing plan of action is a major surgery at Emory to remove architecture, interior design and project his entire tongue, epiglottis, larynx (voice box), and the management for hotels around the world. Bob, his wife, cancerous lymph node. Meanwhile, Terry is his sole Terry, and daughter, Maria, have lived and served in our caregiver and provider until Maria returns from college community for 25 years. in May to help care for her father. Despite the struggles in his industry “It is difficult to share our story during the 2007 real estate collapse publicly,” Bob writes (because it is difficult and economic downturn, Bob took to speak). “I grew up smoking like so consulting jobs, and did whatever he many others. I tried to stop many times could to provide stability for his family. using the patch, Nicorette gum, Chantix Health insurance became a luxury, but and even hypnosis, but the damage was he made certain his wife and daughter done. There are many things I wish I always received the care they needed could re-do, not smoking for one, but also while sacrificing his own healthcare. being more proactive and vigilant with “Bob is a typical proud man who my health screenings. Take the time and never shared the stress of his concerns make the appointments and spend the to protect us. He certainly did not money. I ignored my own care and now share the concerns of his health,” I’m paying the price.” Terry said. “Throughout 2020, Bob The Oral Cancer Foundation began losing a few teeth – thinking (oralcancerfoundation.org) records nothing of it. He had also begun that more than 49,000 Americans are to lose weight. It did not help that diagnosed with oral cancer every year, COVID protocols deterred folks from causing more than 9,750 deaths. The good going to appointments unless it was news is oral cancer is highly treatable an emergency. However, his persistent if your dentist diagnoses it right away. cough raised concern until Maria, our Regular oral cancer screenings are critical Bob Meyer encourages others not to daughter, and I insisted that he go to if you smoke, dip or chew tobacco. neglect their personal wellbeing. urgent care.” We love the Meyer family. Their roots “It was then that a mass was run deep in our community, and they discovered on his uvula; the teardrop-shaped piece of need our prayers today. Always the first to do and give, tissue that hangs at the end of your throat. We were they now find themselves in a desperate season of life. immediately sent to Northside Cherokee for a biopsy. It is our hope that our community will rally around this Tests confirmed that Bob had Stage 4A Squamous Cell sweet family – a little from many can make a world of Carcinoma of his tongue, epiglottis and larynx that also difference! Gas or grocery cards, money to pay utility involved a lymph node on the right side of his neck. bills and more can provide financial relief to allow Terry The involved lymph node rests on his carotid artery, to care for Bob in the next phase of his brutal fight. making it difficult and risky to remove.” Since Bob’s diagnosis in July 2020, Bob has had all of his teeth removed prior to undergoing two rounds of Everyday Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Cherokee aggressive chemotherapy while simultaneously receiving County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit seven weeks of daily radiation. In August, he received a www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, feeding tube, which he will always have. Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your “We administer his food every three hours to keep funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special his weight up,” Terry said. need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. His treatment began at Georgia Cancer Specialists 42

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

From left, Ansley Gulledge, Brianna Dempsey, Anna Weitnauer, Rylie Springer, Carra Sassack and Ashley Vincent.

It’s Like a Day at the Beach

Canton is roughly 300 miles from the nearest beach, but is home to the longest standing beach-only volleyball club in the state: S3 Volleyball (short for Southern Select Sand Volleyball). “We specialize in training only beach volleyball players. We don’t train indoor,” Director Bryan Jones said. “While there are some obvious similarities, the skills and strategies between beach and indoor are actually very different. At S3, we focus on teaching our athletes those beach specific skills.” “Some other volleyball clubs are

Fastest-growing Sport

S3 was founded in the fall of 2014, when there were around 45 collegiate beach volleyball programs in existence across the U.S., according to the American Volleyball Coaches Association. Currently, beach volleyball is the fastest growing NCAA D1 sport in the last five years, and more than 170 schools have programs.

PHOTOS BY DAN DUREN

For the local beach volleyball fans, S3 offers:

1. Year-round and seasonal programs, with two sessions in the summer and another in the fall, to work around the high school indoor season. Kristen Obijeski passes the ball.

indoor clubs who also offer beach, but as far as beach only, we are the oldest.” Over the past year, more than 170 athletes trained with S3, on the courts at Badger Creek Park in Canton and Lakepoint Sporting Community in Emerson. With three courts currently at Badger Creek, and two more opening in time for the spring/ summer season, the club will be welcoming more girls and, hopefully, some boys to the sport.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

2. Competition in Metro Atlanta and across the country. “Each year

we travel around the southeast for multiple events,” Bryan said. “We head to Texas at least once a year, and we end our regular season in late July with a trip to California for several national level events.”

3. An opportunity to play, no matter the athlete’s experience. “Beach volleyball is a unique game because it is played in pairs. It’s just you and your partner. There is no bench in the sport of beach volleyball.” 4. Training for beginners, starting in fourth grade, through collegecommitted athletes. More than 30 players have been placed in collegiate programs, and S3 helps with the process, thanks to solid connections in college programs coast-to-coast.

Fun and Competitive

A little sand on a volleyball court is the foundation of a challenging yet fun sport that continues to grow in popularity. Expanding the courts at Badger Creek has helped with the club’s growth, especially over the past two years. S3 teams have won several national championships: USA Volleyball, AVPFirst, Rox Beach Volleyball Tour. Many S3 players have made various USA Volleyball High

Sponsored TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Where Do Mosquitoes Hide? Most of us know to watch out for standing water. Where else should we look? • • • • • •

Landscape drainage catch basins Ivy and heavily shaded areas Clogged gutters and downspouts Tall grass and thick bushes Tree holes or hollow places in trees Leaves and brush piles

If you have any of these in your landscape, you may require professional help to alleviate mosquitoes. Each of these can lead to breeding mosquitoes on your property. Rex and the girls enjoying a Mosquito-Free backyard.

Owners Chad Woodall and Jody Wheeler.

In the Beginning

Testimonial

“Mosquito-Free has kept our kids and pets bite free! It’s so nice to let the kids go out and play without having to spray them down first. The guys are great, and I love supporting a local, small business.” — Kelly U.

PHOTOS BY J. KING IMAGES

When Chad realized the mosquitoes were so thick in his yard that he couldn’t play ball with his kids without first drenching them in bug spray, he knew he had to do something. At that time, he hadn’t heard of options for mosquito control. “Unbeknownst to me, Jody, who is my cousin and lifelong friend, had begun the process of getting trained in mosquito control,” Chad said. “Ultimately, I was one of his first customers. When Jody treated my yard, I was absolutely blown away by its effectiveness. Over the next year or two, we had numerous conversations about starting a company. Finally, in 2016, we made the plunge.” Business has grown so much in the past five years, the pair has gone from two men and a truck to five guys and five trucks. Chad credits their success to his customers, who have shared their story, liked their posts, and referred them to neighbors and friends. Chad hopes the next five to 10 years will see the same growth pattern, but he is confident that they will never will lose that personal touch and exceptional service.

CALL 770-704-4560 OR VISIT MOSQUITO-FREE.COM MENTION CODE AROUNDABOUT 21

FULL SEASON OF 100 OFF AMOSQUITO CONTROL NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY. OFFER EXPIRES 6/30/21

on, GA 30114 | 770-704-4560 | www.mosquito-free.com | www.facebook.com/mosquitofreellc

d Content TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Learning to Let Love Lead Us BY THE REV. ELIZABETH MILFORD

My senior year in high school, I was cast in the lead role of Cinderella in our high school musical, a dream come true ... until we reached the ballroom scene. Our dancing skills clearly lacking, the director set up countless extra practice sessions during study hall, for me and the prince to learn the simple choreography. Then, measures of music were scratched from the score for the pivotal waltz number, in the hopes we could master 12 counts of grace. One frustrating day, the director threw up his hands at our attempts and stepped in himself in a last-ditch effort to teach me how to dance. After a few moments of tugging back and forth, he declared that I did not know how to “follow.” I just kept trying to lead, which literally had us going in circles. I’d love to tell you that I was able to adjust and dazzled the audiences as a princess in my ballgown, but the truth is, it was a struggle that proved to be an ongoing one as I continue to grow and mature in life. Letting someone else lead and guide us is a vulnerable act of trust that does not come easily. We like to be in control of our directions and destinies as much as possible. The challenges of the past year only have highlighted this, as we have grappled with the push and pull of the pandemic and tried to navigate the complex and ever-changing choreography of life. I wonder, though, if we find ourselves spinning in circles during this time, whether part of our challenge is what

truly is leading us. Is it our pride and ego? Our need to be right? Our politics? A sense of fear or anxiety? Perhaps, we need to let go of these self-centered ways and consider letting something else take center stage. Colossians 3:14 offers, “most of all, let love guide your life,” for this is what binds everything together. This is a love that looks like compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline and forgiveness. These are the things that will lead us forward. Can you imagine if everything we said, did, or posted on social media was led by this spirit? A dance like this, with harmony and peace in both our hearts and our lives, sounds like something out of a fairy tale, in the midst of such division and disagreement in our world. To take part in the movement together requires patience and work, and we might find that, indeed, we have two left feet, as we step on each other’s toes. But, I believe with all of my heart that we are called to dance together. And, maybe, if we let love lead, we might uncover a surprising story that moves us toward a happily ever after together.

Letting someone else lead and guide us is a vulnerable act of trust ...

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Rev. Elizabeth Lovell Milford is pastor of Heritage Presbyterian Church in Acworth and lives in Woodstock with her husband and two sons.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill

Johnny’s Pizza

Cheeseburger Bobby’s

Kani House

Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 www.cancunmexicangrill.net American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 www.cheeseburgerbobbys.com

China Fun

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

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

El Ranchero

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

Family Tradition

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

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

Izumi Asian Bistro

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

J.D.’s Bar-B-Que

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 www.johnnyspizza.com Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 www.kanihouse.com

Keegan's Irish Pub

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

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

La Parrilla

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

LongHorn

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

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

Mellow Mushroom

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

NaNa Thai Eatery

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

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

Panera Bread

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

Peking & Tokyo

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

Song’s Garden

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

Tavern at Towne Lake

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

The Place

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

Tuscany

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

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

WOW Pho & Grill

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Rob’s Rescues Offering More Ways to Learn Rob with Cobb County dog #627885.

Recently, I was invited to speak to a group of Cub Scouts. I talked about what I do, and how to help shelter animals and community cats. I told them about Dr. Good’s Homeless Pet Clubs. This is something they can think about forming. If you are a teacher and would like me to talk to your class, please let me know. I also have a Classroom Video on my website you can show students to tell them about shelters and how they can help shelter animals. The Cub Scout talk was filmed by Dreampost Productions for the Dr. Good Unleashed Video series. So, don’t forget to check me out on YouTube!

Rob and Zipper the cat.

This dog’s tag number in Cobb County Animal Services is 627885. He is a black-and-white Boston Terrier and about 1 year old. He came to the shelter as a stray. I don’t think anyone would give this dog up. He is such a nice dog and very friendly. This cat is at Cobb County Animal Services, and his name is Zipper. He really likes attention! He has a strange pattern down his back that looks like a zipper, which is probably how he got his name. He is a very nice black-andwhite cat, who really deserves a home.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Rob with Cub Scouts, from left, Elijah, Iker, Spencer, Max and Luke.

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

This Mother’s Day, BY TIFFANY HUGHES

Chocolate banana bread with peanut butter chips.

Chocolate Banana Bread Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt • 1 cup granulated sugar • ½ stick butter, softened • 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed • 2 eggs • ⅓ cup plain lowfat yogurt Optional: ½ cup peanut butter chips, ½ cup chopped nuts

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt with a whisk, and set aside. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with a mixer on medium speed until there are no lumps (about 1 minute). Add the bananas, egg and yogurt, and mix until well blended. Next, add the flour mixture, and beat until just moist. Stir in the nuts, peanut butter chips, etc., with a spoon. Pour the batter into two medium loaf pans coated with cooking spray. Bake for 1 hour, 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack, then remove from the pan, and finish cooling the bread completely on the wire rack. Store leftovers in the fridge. NOTE: Unsweetened applesauce can be substituted for the yogurt. 66

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Brunch always is fun, no matter the occasion, but, for Mother’s Day, it’s a great opportunity to show Mom how much she is loved and appreciated. Neither the food nor the service need to be elaborate. Moms will appreciate the effort just as much as the food. Brunch foods can cover a wide variety of dishes, so make sure that it is something your mom likes.

Cheers!

Give her something to sip on while the meal is being prepared. You can add a surprise, such as ground cinnamon to the coffee grounds before brewing, a new flavored creamer, or even melted ice cream. Add a little fizz to apple, orange or pineapple juices with ginger ale or club soda. Sparkling cider and grape juices are good, too, especially if you add frozen berries to keep them cold.

Fruity Flavors

Fruit can be prepared in a variety of ways, and it offers a balance to heavy dishes. Cut different types of fruit into chunks (apples, peaches, strawberries, etc.), then combine and drizzle with a mixture of honey and lime juice. Fruit also can be cooked to top pancakes, waffles or other dishes.

Pass the Syrup

Prepare pancakes and substitute the water in the recipe with coffee creamer, fruit juice, light-colored soda or eggnog to add extra flavor to your batter. Canned pumpkin puree can substitute for the oil. To be really extravagant, substitute dry cake mix for the flour. The trick to a successful and easy French toast is to use old bread; sourdough and challah work the best. Simply whisk one egg per two pieces of bread, with a dash of salt, a ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a ¼ cup of milk and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Dredge both sides of the bread in the egg mixture, and place on a hot skillet, with either canola oil or melted butter. Cook until golden brown on the bottom, then flip and repeat. Serve with powdered sugar, syrup, fresh fruit and whipped cream.

Caramelized Peach Sauce Ingredients

Let’s Brunch! Time to Make the Doughnuts

Canned biscuits can be used as a shortcut to making doughnuts. Simply cut a hole in the middle of each biscuit. Spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once all the biscuits have holes, lay on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for approximately 10 seconds, then stretch them out while they are still pliable. Cover the bottom of a cast iron skillet with canola oil and heat over medium until bubbles appear. Place the doughnuts in the oil, and turn as soon as you see golden brown at the bottoms (less than 1 minute). Cook briefly on the back side, then remove and lay on paper towels to drain. Once they have drained, dredge them in equal parts sugar and ground cinnamon.

Savory Casserole

Breakfast casseroles usually involve grits or hash browns, eggs, meat and cheese. An option that has fewer carbs is a cheesy sausage pie. Cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage. A small chopped onion, or even a diced bell pepper, or jalapenos, can be added to the meat while cooking. When the sausage is brown, drain and place it in a pie plate that has been coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the top with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. In a medium bowl, whisk two eggs with one cup of milk, a ½ teaspoon of salt and black pepper, along with a ½ cup of flour. Pour over the sausage mixture, and bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes, or until the eggs are set. Serve with fruit, and you’ve got a fancy breakfast!

• • • • •

4-5 peaches, peeled and sliced 4 tablespoons butter, divided ½ cup dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla ¼ cup heavy cream

Directions

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then add the peaches. Cook until they soften. Add the remaining butter, and cook until melted, then stir in the brown sugar. When the sugar has melted, add vanilla and cream, and mix until well blended. Cook approximately 5 minutes, or until the sauce has started to caramelize. Serve over pancakes, waffles or French toast. NOTE: Bananas or apples can be used instead of peaches.

Dutch Baby (Oven Pancake) Ingredients • • • •

2 tablespoons butter 1 cup milk 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

Put the butter in a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish or a 12-inch cast iron skillet, then place in the oven and heat to 400 degrees. When the butter is melted, remove the dish from the oven. Combine the remaining ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour into the prepared dish, then return to the oven and bake for 20 minutes uncovered. The pancake will rise on the sides, then fall again. Dust with powdered sugar, or serve with your favorite syrup or fruit!

No matter what you have planned for Mother’s Day, Mom will appreciate that you made an effort for her. Cleaning the kitchen and washing up afterward goes a long way, too. Happy cooking, everyone!

Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and works for the Booth Western Art Museum. Contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.

Dutch baby, also known as an oven pancake. TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons

J Christopher’s

Salt Factory Pub

Century House Tavern

J Miller’s Smokehouse

Semper Fi Bar and Grille

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

Copper Coin Coffee

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

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

MadLife Studios

Freight Kitchen & Tap

Partners II Pizza

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

Gyro Aegean Grill

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

Habanero’s Taqueria

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

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Southern 8722 Main St. www.madlifestageandstudios.com

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

Pure Taqueria

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

Prime 120

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

Reel Seafood

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

Rootstock

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

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

Tea Leaves & Thyme

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

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

Truck & Tap

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

Vingenzo’s

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

The original Reeves House, photo courtesy of Elm Street.

Welcome to the Reeves House! BY KATIE CALDWELL

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village officially will open the doors to the Reeves House May 14-16, fulfilling long-awaited dreams for the visual arts in Woodstock. The weekend will be full of celebrations of the community support that brought this endeavor to fruition. Festivities will include live music and art activities, and will feature an inaugural exhibit with pieces from local and regional artists who have served as the inspiration for this new home for the visual arts. Beginning in May, the Reeves House will offer arts education opportunities in oil painting, watercolor, figure drawing and more, for all skill levels. This space will be a plus for the community, with a bustling schedule of events to

The new Reeves House, photo by Christopher Brazelton. 70

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

provide lasting memories and experiences for all ages. Collaboration is at the heart of this community, and has been since the beginning. Founders Gay Lora Grooms, Ann Litrel and Shawn McLeod joined forces in 2009 to create a vision for a multidisciplinary art center to provide entertainment, enrichment and education in the arts. The idea of the Reeves House grew from this vision, and so begins a great adventure! Taking the reins at the Reeves House is new Visual Art Director Nicole Lampl, who brings bold visions and ideas for Elm Street programming. Lampl started as a gallery assistant, curator and consultant at galleries throughout California. She earned a masters in art history at Tulane University and became a curatorial fellow at the New Orleans Museum of Art. As the new leader for artistic initiatives at the Reeves House, and within our community, Lampl brings the fresh perspective and enthusiasm necessary to provide a vibrant visual arts scene. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village wouldn’t be here without the support of our incredible city. Woodstock has been a strong partner for the arts and has been an invaluable investor, stakeholder and supporter. Elm Street’s four-acre campus sits in the heart of downtown Woodstock, where landmarks like the Elm Street Green, the Reeves House and even our city’s new natural playground are located. This collaborative spirit is a solid foundation, and gives Elm Street momentum to create

Celebrations at Elm Street May 14

The grand opening party begins at 6 p.m. at the Reeves House. No charge. The open interior features space for a gallery hosting rotating exhibits, classrooms and artists studios, and a coffee shop/wine bar. Guests can tour the facility.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET Reeves House | Visual Arts Center

OPENING WEEKEND SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

May 15

Mommy & Me is an artist-led project

tutorial at the Reeves House, for kids and parents to work on together, that starts at 10 a.m. Free with suggested $15 donation for materials.

Friday, May 14th 6:00pm - Grand Opening Reception & Ribbon Cutting Saturday, May 15th 10:00am - Mommy & Me Activity 7:30pm - Changüí Majadero: The Lantern Series Concert

The Lantern Series on the Elm Street Event Green features artist Changüí Majadero at 7:30 p.m.

May 16

Art on the Green is set for 1-6 p.m. on the Elm Street Event Green. Free admission.

new and exciting ways for us to experience vibrancy and togetherness, with art as the catalyst. Special thanks are in order to John Wieland and the JW Collection, who built the project at cost and poured so much heart into every bit of the process. The JW team took such care in preserving the history of the building, by using original materials to create features that transport and inspire. Elm Street Executive Director Christopher Brazelton joined forces with JW to create something truly special that even further demonstrates the excellence that occurs in collaboration. Elm Street takes enormous pride in building on the rich history of collaboration in this community, and plans to draw meaningful connections between the performing and visual arts, and the community at large. At Elm Street, we believe an inspired community can do more, and we have seen that vision come alive over the course of the Reeves House project. Propelled by purposeful collaboration, art has provided a pulse for this community, one that will continue to grow stronger as we go forward together.

PLUS... Katie Caldwell is the board president for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. She has a bachelor of science in education degree from Kennesaw State University.

Sunday, May 16th 1:00-6:00pm - Art on the Green Open Air Art Market And more!

OTHER HAPPENINGS

June 5th Swedish Jam Factory

June 9th-23rd How I Became a Pirate

ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS VILLAGE WILL BECOME

WOODSTOCK ARTS AUGUST 1ST

ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Around & About

The championship par 72 course at Woodmont Golf and Country Club will host the MUST Ministries’ annual golf tournament.

MAY

Cinco de Mayo pub crawl throughout

downtown Woodstock. These themed Saturday events will feature food and drink specials at downtown food establishments. Participants are encouraged to visit all of the participating restaurants. www.visitwoodstockga.com.

The Market at Menagerie will be open to the

7:30 a.m. registration, 9 a.m shotgun start. Registration is open for golfers ($175 per golfer) and sponsorships. The event benefits MUST programs in Cherokee County. For more information, www.mustministries.org or email abolton@mustministries.org.

JUNE

community, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Menagerie on Main, 351 W. Main St., Canton, featuring music and art. www.menagerieonmain.com.

The North Cobb Rotary Club, city of Acworth and the Georgia Barbecue Association will hold the Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival, presented by Superior Plumbing, at Logan Farm Park. Hours are 5-10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. All proceeds are distributed among local charities. www.smokeonthelake.org.

Ball Ground Festival and Plant Sale 10 12 a.m.-4 p.m. Come celebrate the Ball Ground

7-8 15

Celebrating Community with Habitat for

Humanity North Central Georgia, 2-9 p.m. at The Mill on Etowah, 225 Reformation Parkway, Canton. Live music, food vendors, artists market, pony rides. Proceeds go to building a home for a local family. For more information, visit www.habitat-ncg.org.

15-16 River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway Wing & Rock Fest returns to Etowah

in Canton, noon-7 p.m. Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Sunday. Details available at www.wingandrockfest.com.

MUST Ministries Annual Golf Tournament 17 will be held at Woodmont Golf and Country Club.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Sacrifices Made is a Memorial Day tribute

sponsored by the Cherokee Veterans Community. Doors open at 1 p.m., the program begins at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Building A at First Baptist Church Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. For information, email veteransministry@fbcw.org or call 678-570-5828. www.CherokeeVeteransCommunity.org.

Garden Club’s 70 anniversary. Large plant selection and garden accessories. Gardening presentations and raffles. Guided tours of the Botanical Garden. Bake sale, vendors, nonprofit groups. 215 Valley Street, Ball Ground (next to City Hall). www.ballgroundgardenclub/upcoming-events.

WOODSTOCK BUSINESS CLUB Meets weekly 8:30-9:30 a.m. Thursdays in the lounge of Hartman Law Firm, 145 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 200, Woodstock 30188. Follow on Facebook.

WOODSTOCK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

ELM STREET CULTURAL ARTS

The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater. More details at www.woodstockconcertseries.com.

www.elmstreetarts.org

May 8: Christopher Cross June 12: Black Jacket Symphony will perform

Tom Petty’s “Damn the Torpedoes” July 9: The Ultimate Queen Celebration with Marc Martel Aug. 14: Steep Canyon Rangers Sept. 18: Rumours, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band

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

Cherokee County Aquatic Center

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

admission and get dad’s admission FREE! July 2, 30: Family Fun Night at the Oasis (on the 30th donate a school supply and receive $2 off admission) July 18: Mom’s Day at the Oasis-Buy one kid’s admission and get mom’s admission FREE! Dec. 11: Swim with the Grinch 10 a.m.-noon, $10 per child.

May 7

iThink Improv Troupe is back and ready to get its audiences rolling down the aisle with laughter, fully spaced out in the theater. Recommended for ages 10+ (content).

May 8

The Lasting Laugh is a new comedy series that brings in two Atlanta-based comedians monthly with Jessica It’s All Good as the host. Recommended for ages 12+ (content).

May 14

Reeves House grand opening at 6 p.m. Guests can enjoy a reception and get a tour of the new facility.

May 14-July 1

[Re]constructing Home is the first exhibition in the

Reeves House Gallery. This show will feature local and national artists with works centered around the theme of home and how we have rebuilt what home means to each of us during the past year.

May 15

Mommy & Me at 10 a.m. is an artist-led art project tutorial for parents and their children.

Changüí Majadero on the Elm Street Event Green

at 7:30 p.m. Playing Cuban roots music, Majadero is a blazing five-piece band with a surging Afro-Cuban musical tradition that took shape in the late 19th century.

May 16

Art on the Green, 1-6 p.m., features local artists’ displays of paintings, mixed media, photography, handcrafted jewelry, eccentric gifts and more.

LANTERN SERIES At the Elm Street Event Green in Woodstock; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.elmstreetarts.org.

May 1: Crystal Bowersox May 15: Changüí Majadero May 22: JigJam June 5: Swedish Jam Factory June 26: The Foxies July 17: Scott Mulvahill July/Aug.: JigJam, date TBA Sept. 25: The Black Market Trust Oct. 16: We Banjo 3

FARMERS MARKETS Woodstock’s Farm. Fresh. Market.

Now open for the season on Market Street. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-noon. Saturdays through Dec. 18. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.

Farmers Market at River Church

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.

Canton Farmers Market

Opens June 6 in Brown Park. Continues weekly, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays through Oct. 16. Details available at www.cantonga.gov. TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Springing Into Action

Libraries Open to In-Person Visits, Celebrate Library Week

BY JOHN RODGERS

Have you visited the library this spring? All Sequoyah Regional Library System (SRLS) locations are open for indoor and curbside services, and residents across Cherokee County came by to celebrate April’s National Library Week. The festivities began with a week-long fine forgiveness program, where visitors could have up to $15 in overdue fees removed from their accounts, no questions asked. If you missed out on fine forgiveness during National Library Week, don’t worry. Announcements for future promotions are posted to the SRLS website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. “National Library Week serves as a reminder that everyone, whether you’re visiting in-person or virtually, is welcome at their public library,” Executive Director Anita Summers said. Library visitors learned they could use their SRLS library card to check out a Google Chromebook to use at home, for school, in the office, or in the library. After all, why buy when you can borrow? The Google Chromebooks are part of SRLS’s “Library of Things,” a collection of borrowable items that includes board games, robotics, sewing machines and musical

instruments. (Yes, you can borrow a ukulele from the library.) Patrons have used the Library of Things to plan family activity nights, borrow sewing machines to tailor clothes for job interviews, or practice an instrument before investing in purchasing one. April brought the long-awaited return of in-person (but socially distanced) programming at the library, including outdoor storytimes and Sequoyah-Con, an annual convention featuring superheroes, cosplay and virtual programs, which can be viewed on the library’s YouTube channel. Visitors to Hobgood Park and Towne Lake Pass Trail enjoyed books outdoors with TrailStory, a collaboration between the library, Cherokee Recreation and Parks, and Woodstock Parks and Recreation. Signs with storybook pages and discussion questions were posted along the parks’ trails, where readers could follow along at their own pace all month. Be on the lookout for future TrailStories this summer.

John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Young trail-goers enjoyed the storybook pages posted along the outdoor trails in April.

@ the Library Sequoyah Regional Library System www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org

Upcoming Events, Free Pick-up Crafts.

During May, each SRLS library is giving away free pick-up craft kits for visitors to create DIY bird feeders, butterfly wind chimes, rainbow spinners, and much more. In-person program attendees will be able to celebrate spring by making flower seed bombs, paint miniatures, and dance with music and moves. To view the full schedule for pick-up crafts and sign up for in-person or virtual library programming, visit calendarwiz.com/sequoyahreglib.

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

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

School News

Oak Grove’s Owen Earns STEM Teacher Honor

Bascomb kindergartener Ryan Seaman.

Young Authors Advance to State Competition Five Cherokee County students move on to the state competition of the Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition after winning the Regionals. The five winning students are Bascomb Elementary School kindergartener Ryan Seaman for “The White Rainbow;” Hickory Flat Elementary third-grader Quincy Thompson for “A Bigger Plan;” Indian Knoll Elementary fifth-grader Lauren Budde for “Crash;” Cherokee High sophomore Anna Scott Wieler for “The Lows of Highline Trail,” and Cherokee High junior Emily Geer for “Escape from Mirkbase.” “Writing is a foundational skill we want every student to master, and we’re so proud of these winners for their excellence in creative writing,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Hightower said. 76

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Oak Grove Elementary School thirdgrade teacher Tammy Owen earned national STEM honors when she was selected a DEN STAR Educator, a program that offers teachers professional learning opportunities and event kits containing resources to share with other educators. Among her innovative projects for students are stop-motion film shorts, STEAM journals, and Adobe Spark and Nearpod interactive presentations. “Mrs. Owen is a leader at planning intentional blended learning and STEAM [adding arts to STEM] integration that both enhances and showcases her students’ learning,” Principal Penny Valle said. “She uses the digital resources from Discovery Ed to broaden her students’ knowledge, experiences, and application of skills for problembased learning.”

Woodstock Senior Wins Design Contest Woodstock High School senior Angela Smith created the winning logo for this year’s Georgia Science and Engineering Fair. Smith also won $150 for the logo, which will be used for the event’s official keepsake pin and in the event program. Laura Brewer, the fair’s program director, said the judging team “loved” Smith’s design, especially her clever incorporation of a Georgia peach.

First-place team members from E.T. Booth are, from left, Mell Matos, Lillian McKay and Alissa Price.

Lofland Makes First Chair Tuba Ryan Lofland, a junior at Etowah High, recently made first chair for District 9 Honor Band. Lofland is the principal tuba player for the Georgia Music Educators Association All-State Orchestra. He is also principal tuba player for Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra and plays tuba for Atlanta Youth Symphony. Lofland will attend the prestigious Governor’s Honor Program for Fine Arts this summer.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Hightower, left, and School Board Member Patsy Jordan, right, congratulate Cherokee County Educational Foundation Alumni of the Year Award winners Carolyn Turner and Judge Jackson Harris.

Cherokee Schools Add Diversity Specialist

Woodstock High School senior Angela Smith shows off her winning design.

The Cherokee County School Board recently appointed Cecelia Lewis its first administrator focused on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Lewis, who currently is a middle school principal in Maryland, will join CCSD this summer as an administrator on special assignment for student services. She will focus on DEI and Social and Emotional Learning, two important newer initiatives for CCSD. “We’re so excited to add Cecelia to the CCSD family,” School Superintendent Dr. Brian Hightower said. “In four days, she had a DEI action plan for us.”

In other school board news:

Students Create Winning ‘Fairy Tower’ Students from E.T. Booth Middle School took home the top prize for their “Fairy Tower” in the Model Water Tower Competition hosted by the Cherokee County Water and Sewerage Authority. The STEM activity focused on students learning complex concepts such as hydraulic and structural efficiency while thinking green and using recycled materials. About 150 students from E.T. Booth, Creekland and Dean Rusk middle schools competed.

The School Board accepted the retirements of five assistant principals: Rad Dixon of Liberty Elementary School, with 31 years of service; Jonathan Hall, 30 years of service, and Susan (Bruno) Selover, 33 years of service, both of Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy; Paul Jones of Mill Creek Middle School, 30 years of service; and Chuck Wilson of Creekview High, 30 years of service; and appointed new leaders: • Lea Henderson will serve as assistant principal at Carmel Elementary; • Laura Casey will serve as an assistant principal at Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy; • Joni Frederick will serve as assistant principal at Clark Creek Elementary STEM Academy; • Scott Bradley will serve as an assistant principal and the athletic director at Etowah High; • Beth Coryell will serve as an assistant principal at Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy; • Julie Crowe will serve as an assistant principal and the athletic director at Woodstock High; and, • Ashley McElmore will join CCSD to serve as administrator on special assignment for Title I.

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Because of you, she will be fed this summer.

And so will thousands of other children.

Your generous contribution will help us serve thousands of children in Cherokee and the north metro. EASY WAYS YOUR FAMILY CAN HELP

Donate online, volunteer at www.mustministries.org or mail a check to P.O. Box 1717, Marietta, GA 30061

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the March Competition “Still Life!”

Color Print

1st Dayle Geroski “Grapes and Pears’

2nd Martin Longstaff “The Pequod” 80

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

3rd Chastain Kendrick “Juggler’s Choice”

Monochromatic

1st Dayle Geroski “Memories’

2nd Daylyn Thomas “Flower”

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Community of Faith

ADVENTIST

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

AME

Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348, www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691, www.stpaulame-canton.org

BAPTIST

Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108, www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 345 Parkway 575, Suite 100, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428, www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538, www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349, www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415, www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100, www.hbcacworth.org 82

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723, www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324, www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975, www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956, www.bellsferry.com Generations Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Suite 206, Canton g.church Grow Church 2510 E Cherokee Dr, Woodstock 770-693-1018 New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018, www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096, www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003, www.ctrcec.com Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916, www.ecamarietta.org

Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575, www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137, www.etzchaim.net Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434, www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630, www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533, www.kolemeth.net

MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS

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

LUTHERAN

Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540, www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286, www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812, www.tlcwoodstock.org

ORTHODOX

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

PRESBYTERIAN

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

Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722, www.stclementscanton.org

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

JEWISH

ROMAN CATHOLIC

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

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

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

UNITED METHODIST

Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247, www.ballgroundumc.org Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755, www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502, www.cantonfirstumc.org 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 The Way | Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770- 516-0371 www.TheWayWoodstock.com Waleska 7340 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska 770-479-4428 www.waleskaumc.org

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

OTHERS

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

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

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

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964, www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 7745 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-2977, www.bpc.life Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280, www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733, www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com Engage Church 180 Parkway 575, Suite 150, Woodstock 678-445-8766 The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265, www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560, www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227, www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841, www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135, www.fdvida.org 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 www.lifebiblechurch.com

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

Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347, http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-384-4919 ,www.MomentumChurch.tv

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660, www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001, www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652, www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795, www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040, www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737, www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495, www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100, www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795, www.thrivechapel.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100, www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366, www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092, www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515, www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990, www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | May 2021

Towne Lake Area Clubs & Organizations

CHARITABLE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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

SUPPORT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Male Veteran Support Group

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

BUSINESS

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

VETERANS SERVICE

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

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

CIVIC & COUNTY

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

POLITICAL

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

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

RECREATION & HOBBIES

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

Advertisers

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

May 2021

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

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

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

Treasure Tax 678-888-4829 www.treasuretax.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

AUDIOLOGY

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com

AUTOMOTIVE Alpha & Omega Automotive 678-483-5995 www.alpha-omega-auto.com

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

Christian Brothers Automotive 678-904-9670 www.cbac.com/townelake 86

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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

Chattahoochee Technical College 39 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu/deadmissions

Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

Childs Play Early Learning Center 770-924-6534 www.cpelcenter.com

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

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org

KennedyMathews Educational Consultants 47 765-721-1212 www.kennedymathewsconsulting.com Piano Lessons by Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863 www.woodstockpianolessons.com

St. Joseph Catholic School 770-428-3328 www.stjosephschool.org

ENTERTAINMENT

CHIROPRACTIC

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES

At Home Hearing Dr. Jan Henriques, 770-325-3763 www.athomehearing.com

EDUCATION & RELATED SERVICE

INWDSTK 79 www.inwdstk.org

Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com

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

BEAUTY SALON

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES

Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com

Glass Magic, LLC 404-272-5109, 770-516-6414

Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com

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

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com

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

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

(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)

Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

FITNESS/RECREATION

DENTAL

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

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

Epic Martial Arts Summer Camp 770-592-0088 www.martialartswoodstock.com

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

S3 Volleyball www.s3volleyball.com

Cover, 44-45

FUNERAL SERVICES 13

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 57 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS JianKang Spa and Massage 770-779-9158 www.jiankangmassage.com

OPTOMETRY 7

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR B & T Exterior Cleaning 404-218-3635 Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277 CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

54 5 69 7

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

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

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

Myst Power Washing 770-546-6028 www.mystpowerwashing.com

PebbleStone 25 678-708-7894 www.pebblestonepros.com Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045

Scrappy’s Junk Removal 678-330-9282 www.scrappysjunkremoval.com

INSURANCE Allstate, Joe Parks 41 770-516-4011 https://agents.allstate.com/joe-parks woodstock-ga.html INTERIOR DESIGN Robinson Interiors 770-617-0683 www.robinsoninteriors1.com

PEST CONTROL

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

Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com

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

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

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

Mosquito-Free 58-59 770-704-4560 www.mosquito-free.com PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto Photography 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com

Brittany Weir Photography 678-514-9267

J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com

RE/MAX Town & Country Sarah Terrell 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net

Optimal Performance Medicine 9 678-250-0700 www.optimalperformancemedicine.com REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill C: 678-634-5581 O: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com

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

J.D.'s on the Lake 770-213-4127 www.jdsbbq.com

RETAILERS

Northside Hospital Inside front www.northside.com/excellence

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

Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com

RESTAURANTS/CATERING

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES

Atlanta Communities, Lindsey Haas 678-933-1962 www.thelindseyhaasteam.com

Keller Williams, Ursula and Assoc. Back Cover Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com

Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net

Wild Birds Unlimited 770-928-3014 www.mywbu.com/woodstock

SENIOR SERVICES

Life Balance Personal Care Home 37 C: 706-224-2125 O: 678-426-8187 www.lifebalancepersonalcarehome.com The Reserve at Towne Lake 770-928-2440 www.reservetownelake.com

Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com

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

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

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

Clear Summit Realty Ken Jones, 770-842-4531 www.clearsummitrealty.com

Coldwell Banker, Debbie Kiser C:470-225-5332 O:770-993-9200 470calldeb.cbintouch.com

31, 49

Homeowners Financial Group The Dean Team 43 470-863-7070 www.homeownersfg.com/location/canton

Cherokee Veterans Community Inside back 678-570-5828 www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org Gift of Music, The 888-551-0077 www.giftofmusic.org

Goshen Homes 770-345-9535 www.goshenvalley.org/homes

MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org

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

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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. 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.

OUR PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNERS We work with some of the best professional photographers in the business.

Jerry King J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com

TOWNELAKER | May 2021

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

Heather Stevens Joyful Day Photography 678-947-1200 www.joyfuldayphoto.com

Abigail Peyton www.apeytonphotography.com

5-21 Townelaker webfinal.pdf

Articles inside

And the Winners Are

Neighborhood Fun