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TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Contents

48 & 49 On the Cover Dentistry for Woodstock Photo by J. King Images

June 2019

Features

In Every Issue

Contributors

20 The Winners Are …

4 Around Towne

32 Don Akridge

8 Community News

58 Zach Blend

12 Celebrations

28 Stacy Brown

40 Rob’s Rescues

73 Siobhan Brumbelow

60 Library Events

34 Michael Caldwell

62 Community Calendar

44 Dr. Peahen Gandhi

Congratulations to the Readers’ Choice winners! Our community wouldn’t be the same without you.

22 Sights, Sounds of Summer

Nothing beats a meal from fresh vegetables and locally sourced products.

68 Towne Lake Dining Guide

38 Precious Pups

A Woodstock-based dog rescue group has saved hundreds of lives.

74 Pitch Your Tent!

66 Everyday Angels

With camping season upon us, we have the latest updates from around the lake, as well as a few pointers from a seasoned corps camper.

72 Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide 84 School News 87 Recent Home Sales 90 Clubs & Orgs 92 Church Listings 94 Directory of Advertisers

56 Tiffany Hughes 83 Barbara P. Jacoby 26 Kurt & Sheila Johnson 43 Harry Johnston 18 Dr. Ambre Kragor 42 Dr. Sarah Licht 46 Ann Litrel 75 Michelle McCulloch 64 Deidre Parker 74 Christopher Purvis 70 Bill Ratliff

Advertising

38 Susan Browning Schulz 52 Elisabeth Stubbs

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

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

@Townelaker

36 Teddy the Spaz Man 64 Ashley Velez 42 Shelley Winter townelakermagazine

44 Dr. Amber York

Two Locations

Providing compassionate and comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Dr. Jamie Rollins and Dr. Nancy Doelling offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments, efficient follow up and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle.

NorthsideCherokeePediatrics.com

Holly Springs 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220 Holly Springs, GA 30115

678-388-5485 Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189

Northside/ Imag

770-852-7720 Exit 11 (Sixes Road)

HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE LAKE

Ros wel l Rd .

Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home

TOWNELAKER o|hn June 2019 so nF er ry

AROUND TOWNE

The

People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Towne Lake

Letter From the Editor Happy birthday to us! At Aroundabout Local Media, we are celebrating our 23rd birthday and couldn’t be more proud of our age. Our company has grown and thrived through the years of celebrating with you, our readers and our neighbors. I’m excited to see where the next 23 years takes us! It has been an honor to be a part of the community since 1996. The first copies of the TowneLaker, our flagship publication, were filled with news about businesses and neighborhoods new to the area. Here’s a sampling from the July 1996 issue. • Rumors started to circulate that Pike Nurseries would be opening next to Kroger. • Grand openings were planned for the Bank of Canton and State Farm agent Steve Cannon’s offices. • Additional rumors about plans for movie theaters and hotels were reported. • On that date, the total closings in the master planned community of Towne Lake numbered 4,000, halfway to the 8,000-home projection.

What’s New The former Rite-Aid, at the corner of Towne Lake Parkway and Rose Creek, is rebranding, and is now a Walgreens. A Build-A-Bear Workshop has opened in a 1,000-square-foot space inside the front of Walmart at 6435 Bells Ferry Road in Woodstock. The new shop will carry a new collection called Condo Cubs, smaller versions of the company’s plush animals that will start at $10 each.

4 Seasons Pottery has opened at 6889 Highway 92, Woodstock. The store relocated there after 27 years in Sandy Springs. 404-252-3411. www.4seasonspottery.com. Atlanta Hollywood Acting Studios has planned a grand opening on June 1 at 10010 GA-92, Suite 150, in Woodstock, next to Stars & Strikes. 404-662-3302. www.atlantahollywood.com.

Ribbon Cutting

• The first homes in the Grove Park community were close to completion, with prices ranging from $70,000 to $100,000. I remember this well. My mother purchased the first home in the community. When she moved to a personal care home five years ago, my mother-in-law bought her home. I love that it’s still in the family! • Towne Lake Family Chiropractic was an advertiser then, and is still with us. Many others have advertised with us since the beginning, including Calvary Landscaping. While we’ve seen lots of changes during the years, within our community and our company, one thing remains the same: our commitment to our community. Each staff member is dedicated to the community in which we live, work and play. Each month we strive to work harder, create more compelling content and reach new advertisers with the opportunity to be part of our dynamic product. Do you have special memories of Towne Lake? I’d love for you to share them with me. I look forward to hearing from you.

Distinguished Young Women of Georgia, Inc. Cherokee County 770-827-7998 http://a.distinguishedyw.org.

What’s Coming A Waffle House is under construction on Eagle Drive. No word on the expected opening date.

Congrats!

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

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Kudos to Studio 55 Dance! Students of the Woodstock studio have been invited to be part of the 93rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Owner Kalia May received the invitation after her dance company competed in the Groove dance competition in Nashville.

We provide trusted, compassionate and exceptional care to patients with GYN cancers and other related conditions. Our experience in gynecologic oncology, combined with the most advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques, means that our patients can rest assured knowing they are in the best hands possible.

Conditions We Treat

• Pelvic Masses • Ovarian Cancer

Atlanta

• Cervical Cancer • Endometrial Cancer

980 Johnson Ferry Road NE Suite 900 Atlanta, GA 30342

• Endometrial Hyperplasia • Endometriosis

4 Convenient Locations

Marietta

780 Canton Road Suite 405 Marietta, GA 30060

Call 404-459-1900 for an appointment with Dr. Gerald A. Feuer in Atlanta & Marietta.

Canton

460 Northside Cherokee Boulevard Suite 400 Canton, GA 30115

AtlantaGynOnc.com

• Uterine Fibroids • Pelvic Adhesive Disease

Towne Lake

900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189

Call 770-721-9400 for an appointment with Dr. Michelle A. Glasgow in Canton & Towne Lake.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

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

published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.

Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home

Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers

Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.

Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2019. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 2

America’s Community Magazine

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

YOUR LOCAL NEWS New History Museum in Canton The Cherokee County Historical Society will develop a new and innovative Cherokee County History Museum and Preservation Center. The location is the former Canton Police Station building at 221 E. Marietta St. in historic downtown Canton, following an extensive reuse and renovation project. The museum should be a major tourist attraction for Canton and Cherokee County, as well as a center for local residents and students to explore the county’s rich and vibrant history. The historical society bought the property from the city for $1.32 million; the society will make the initial payment of $600,000 at the time the purchase is finalized, later this summer. The remainder of the purchase price will be paid annually from a tourism grant the Historical Society receives from the city’s hotel/motel tax fund, according to a partnership agreement between the organization and the city. The museum will engage visitors by telling and depicting the human stories behind the county’s history. Using artifacts, storyboards and stunning audio visuals, these personal narratives will bring the artifacts to life and personally connect visitors to Cherokee's rich past. "We are excited to finalize the location of the new History Center,” Historical Society Director Stefanie Joyner said. “This will bring a much needed cultural attraction to Cherokee County, and provide a place for students to learn about local history. We’re grateful to the city for working with us to make this a reality." The plan comes as the Historical Society’s lease for space in the historic white marble courthouse in Canton expires. More details about the design and plans for the museum and the upcoming capital campaign to support the project will be released later this year. When completed, the museum is expected to draw 20,000 visitors a year to Cherokee County. For more information, contact Joyner at 770-345-3288 or sjoyner@ rockbarn.org.

Photo courtesy of Carey Hood, Just a Fan Photography.

Swim Safety Is the Theme The Cherokee County Aquatic Center has a full schedule of activities June 17-21, including an attempt to break the world’s record for the largest swim lesson. With paid admission to the facility on June 20, guests can get free swim lessons and be a part of the record-breaking effort. Last year, an estimated 45,000 children from 29 countries and six continents participated in the Guiness Book of World Records event.

The Week at a Glance Monday: Pool Rules Day Tuesday: Sun Safety Day. Bring an

item that protects you from the sun and get $1 off admission.

Wednesday: Swim With a Buddy

Day. Bring a friend and receive $1 off each of your admission costs.

Thursday: World’s Largest Swim Lesson.

Friday: Water Safety Day. Safety will be promoted through fun activities and contests.

The county’s history museum currently is in the historic white marble courthouse on North Street. 8

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

During the week, several vendors (Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Northside Hospital and Safe Kids) will be on-site with giveaways, as well as safety tips to keep kids safe around water and in the sun. For more details, call 678-880-4760 or visit www.crpa.net.

Three Convenient Locations: We are a full-service vascular surgery and endovascular therapy practice that specifically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins and arteries. Our compassionate, board-certified physicians, Dr. Catalin Harbuzariu, Dr. Edward Kang, Dr. Siddharth Patel, and Dr. Brooks Whitney bring years of experience working at some of the leading institutions in the field, and offer minimally-invasive, state-ofthe-art procedures to treat the entire scope of vascular diseases, from the simplest to the most complex. We offer three convenient locations to serve the communities throughout Greater Atlanta and North Georgia. We offer state-of-the-art care in providing the full-spectrum of vascular and endovascular services for:

• Aortic Aneurysms • Carotid Disease

• Peripheral Artery Disease • Renal & Mesenteric Disease

• Venous Disease • Dialysis Access • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

980 Johnson Ferry Rd. Suite 1040 Atlanta, GA 30342

460 Northside Cherokee Blvd. Suite 100 Canton, GA 30115

1505 Northside Blvd. Suite 2400 Cumming, GA 30041

770-292-3490

NVS-GA.com TOWNELAKER | June 2019

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

David Simmons, vice president of facilities for Chattahoochee Technical College, with Anita Summers, director of the Sequoyah Regional Library System, and Pam Carnes, president and CEO of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce.

Retired Teachers Recognized by Donation The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, in partnership with Chattahoochee Technical College, is recognizing retiring educators from the Cherokee County School District by donating $1,000 to the Sequoyah Regional Library System. The funds will be used to purchase books for all five library branches located in the county. The books will include a label recognizing all faculty, staff and administrators who retired during the 2018-2019 school year. Each retiree will receive notification that a book is being donated in their honor. “This is the 10th year that the chamber has acknowledged retiring educators for their valuable contribution to the lives of students in Cherokee County. The chamber is pleased to have Chattahoochee Technical College sponsor this tribute to Cherokee County’s educators,” said Pam Carnes, chamber president and CEO.

Artists for a Cause Event a Success Woodstock’s FoxTale Book Shoppe hosted the second annual Art Instigation Society’s Artists for a Cause art exhibit and fundraiser. Local artists were asked to paint and donate on original piece of artwork on a 6-inch-by6-inch canvas, focusing on their unique interpretation of flowers. For this year’s event, 34 local artists participated, an increase from 20 artists last year. The artwork was displayed and sold by silent auction on April 13, raising $2,808.56. Proceeds were donated to the Anna Crawford Children’s Center to support children’s therapeutic art activities. The center is a nonprofit organization that provides intervention and treatment services to children and families impacted by abuse, trauma and neglect. All services are provided at no charge, to assist families in their journey in healing. From left: Becca Patton, executive assistant and family support specialist at the Anna Crawford Children's Center; Karen Schwettman, owner of FoxTale Book Shoppe; artist Lorraine Rose; Brittany Anderson, clinical child and family specialist at the Anna Crawford Children's Center; and artist Cheryl Ruffer. 10

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

There’s Help for Smokers to Quit Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute has a program called Built to Quit, designed to help smokers and users of other tobacco products break the habit. Built to Quit smoking and tobacco cessation classes are led by American Lung Association-certified facilitators, and educate participants about the hazards of smoking and using tobacco products, the benefits of quitting, and the strategies and skills to cope with urges. Behavioral therapists, nutritionists and respiratory therapists provide support and guidance. Participants receive nicotine replacement therapy (if qualified) and a hard copy curriculum with a meditation CD. Upcoming sessions begin July 9, Sept. 10 and Nov. 12. Online classes also are available upon request. Classes are conducted primarily in a group setting, with face-to-face interaction that allows participants to learn from each other’s experiences. Afternoon classes are available at all three Northside Hospital campuses in Canton, Atlanta and Cumming, with evening classes also available in Atlanta and Cumming. Lunch or dinner is provided. Register online at northside.com/2019Built-to-Quit-Class-Registration, or, for more information, call 404-780-7653; email smokingcessation@northside.com.

You don’t need to be an athlete to have shoulder problems. Or issues with your joints, hips, hands or knees, for that matter. That’s why the orthopedic specialists within the Northside Cherokee Sports Medicine Network provide comprehensive care based entirely on your needs, no matter your age or athletic level. From the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of injuries to knee and hip replacement, we’ve got you covered. Call 770-517-6636 to find the location near you. Because there’s a lot riding on your health.

CHEROKEE

ORTHOPEDIC TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Celebrations!

Landon Bridgers

June 16 Happy 11th birthday! Love, Mom, Dad and Levi.

Eddie

Happy 27th birthday! I love you so much, and hope this year brings you great success! Love, your Wifey!

Happy fifth birthday, Rachael

Happy graduation! I am very proud of you! We love you to the moon and back! Mom, Brayden and Brylee.

Stella

Jackson Graham Wall

June 13 Happy first birthday! You are sweet, smart, beautiful and absolutely hilarious. We love you! Mom and Dad.

Ivan André Escudero

June 27 Happy ninth birthday to our Soccer Boy. We are so proud of you. Love, Daddy and Mommy.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Haven Ashlee Lawhon

June 30 To my beautiful, funny and smart niece. I love you with all my heart, Puchy. Titi Main.

May 31 Happy second birthday! Parents are Courtney and Stuart Wall.

Lauren

Happy 15th birthday! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Ansley.

Jessica

Happy eighth birthday! Love, Daddy, Mommy and Kathryn.

TJ Roldan

Happy 21st birthday! We love you! Love, Dad, Mom, Joscie, Christian and Lili.

Ceci

June 23 Happy third birthday, our bebé! Feliz cumpleaños! La familia y el futuro para siempre! Love, Mami and Papi.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Celebrations!

Jeff and Lori

Perris

Happy 21st anniversary to my husband, Jeff. Love, Lori.

Happy graduation!

Mason Christopher Schulze Graduating from Woodstock High School. Class of 2019

on her March 2 wedding, and happy birthday on May 26. Happy birthday to

Madeline Rideout Tyson on June 2.

June 6 Mom, Dennis, Kayla and Stinky-Boy love you very much!

Alice Schroeder

Congratulations to

Justine Rideout Kersey

Happy birthday, Madison!

Age 4 on June 1. Happy birthday to our smart girl; a sweet daughter and a great big sister. We love you a million times! Love, Pete, Corinne and Gram Schroeder.

Carlee Sue Edwards

June 3 Love you to the moon. There is never a dull moment with you around. Dad, Mom, Emma and Khloe.

Olivia Kirkland

June 28 Happy 13th birthday. We love you, Mom and Dad.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Lea M. Escudero

June 27 Happy 37th birthday. We love you, Andres e Ivan.

Logan Woodward

Age 8 on June 17. Happy birthday. We are so very proud of you. We love you to the moon and back. Nani, Papa, Mommy and Daddy.

John Harrington

June 23 Happy birthday! You are the foundation to this family. Love, Dana and Dillon.

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com July deadline is June 10. Please specify TowneLaker.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Thanks, DAD!

This Father’s Day, we say thank you to all the dads out there! Whether you go by Dad, Daddy, Father, Pop, Papa, Old Man or any other name, we salute you! And so do your children. We asked local elementary school teachers to pose these questions to their students. We hope you enjoy their thoughtful responses!

1. What’s the most important thing a Dad does in his family? 2. What is your favorite thing to do with your Dad? 3. What do you love most about your Dad? 4. What advice would you give a Dad to help him understand his kids? Emma B.

Third grade - Oak Grove Elementary 1. Goes to work and makes money for us. 2. I like to go to stars and strikes and we play games and bowl. I like to do this because I like spending time with him. 3. He gives me food and shelter.

Caden C.

4. Spend time with your kids.

Fourth grade - Bascomb Elementary 1. Keeps the family safe. 2. He takes me out places and I get to spend alone time with him. 3. He is really funny and caring. 4. I would say yes whenever his kids ask for something.

Violet P.

Fourth grade - Bascomb Elementary 1. He thinks about others even when he has a hard day. 2. Making things and showing me how to do things correct. 3. When he needs to do something he just gets to it. 4. Instead of keep talking to his children when they are upset, stop and take a moment to cool down and then talk to them.

Nate C.

Sydnee O.

1. He helps others when they need help.

1. Helps us and cooks dinner for us.

2. Go outside and play basketball, because we are the only ones that do it.

2. Go to the Daddy night at Chick-fil-A. We get dressed up and it’s just me and him.

3. That's hard because there is so much, but he is nice to me and my family.

3. He is funny and helpful.

Fourth grade - Bascomb Elementary

4. Say Yes to everything! 16

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Fourth grade - Oak Grove Elementary

4. Don’t be sarcastic and have patience with them.

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We provide the boat. You provide the FUN! (770) 331-2040 l www.SuntexBoatClub.com

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Why Retainers are Recommended for Life BY DR. AMBRE KRAGOR

It is very common for a potential orthodontic patient to look surprised when I mention, in order to keep the great results of braces or aligners, retainers will be necessary for life. Orthodontists have tried for decades to come up with methods to improve orthodontic stability, which, for orthodontists, can be defined as keeping your teeth in the same position they were the day braces or aligners were removed. Orthodontic research tells us there is no such thing as stability, or at least stability without retention. It makes sense, because the human body is always changing. Keep in mind, the jaw bones are living structures, they arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cement. Bones move in response to pressure, and pressure is always present in the mouth; from cheeks, tongue, lips, and grinding pressure from the teeth. Studies conducted at the University of Washington on the stability of orthodontic treatment found unacceptable relapse in about 70% of patients who wore their retainers for only one to two years after braces. The bottom front teeth were especially prone to relapse. When the same study was repeated, using patients treated with a lifetime use of retainers, the amount of unacceptable relapse was reduced to less than 10%. There will be the occasional patient who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wear retainers as prescribed, and their teeth will hardly move.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

How do we explain this? Luck! And, there are patients who wear their retainers religiously, and still fall in the 10% of patients whose teeth shift a little bit. I usually give patients four sets of retainers. Two are small, flat wires that are bonded to the back of the front teeth, top and bottom. Those are fixed retainers, also known as permanent retainers, because the patient cannot remove them. Bonded wires help alleviate crowding which usually returns in the front of the mouth, most commonly the lower front teeth. In addition, I fabricate clear upper and lower retainers that look similar to Invisalign. I ask patients to always wear their clear retainers at night, on top of the bonded retainers, which can only be attached to the front teeth. The clear ones help hold the back teeth straight. No matter what type of retainers are made for you (different cases require different retention protocols), you must treat them like pajamas for your teeth, never go to sleep without them. Unless, of course, you want braces again.

Dr. Ambre Kragor, and her husband Andy, are orthodontists who practice in the Towne Lake/Woodstock area. 770-485-8827. www.KragorOrtho.com.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Readers’ Choice Awards Readers’ Ch ards Readers’ Choice Awards Readers’

Winners

CELEBRATE your win! To request • Window cling • Certificate for framing • Graphic for social media email readerschoice@aroundaboutmagazines.com. To order a Thank You Ad email christie@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Restaurants

Retailers

American: Century House Tavern Asian: Izumi Asian Bistro Barbecue: J.D.'s Bar-B-Que Breakfast: J. Christopher's Coffee Shop: Copper Coin Dessert: Pie Bar Fine Dining: Century House Tavern Food Truck: El Don Tacos Italian: Tuscany Kid Friendly: GAMEDAY Fresh Grill Mexican: La Parrilla Pizzeria: Mellow Mushroom Seafood: Reel Seafood

Animal/Pet Supplies: PetSmart Bicycle Sales: Outspokin’ Bicycles Boutique: Brooklynn’s Consignment Store: Urban Renewal Florist: Brenda's House of Flowers Garden Center/Nursery: Pike Nurseries, Woodstock Gifts/Home Décor: Tuesday Morning, Woodstock Jeweler: Art Jewelers Liquor Store: Bullock's Wine and Spirits Pharmacy: Publix at Rose Creek Shopping Center Specialty Foods: Sprouts Thrift Store: No Longer Bound Tires: Discount Tire

Recreation and Entertainment Community Theater: Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Dance Studio: Dance Imagination Equestrian: The Stables at Towne Lake Golf Course/Club: Eagle Watch Golf Club Gymnastics Center: World of Gymnastics and Cheer

Music Venue: MadLife Stage and Studios Outdoor Festival: Woodstock Summer Concert Series Summer Camp: Cherokee Outdoor Family YMCA Swim Lessons: Cherokee Aquatic Center

Readers’ Choice Awards Readers’ Ch 20

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

oice Awards Readers’ Choice Awards Choice Awards Readers’ Choice Awar Medical Services Audiologist: Woodstock Ear, Nose & Throat Cardiologist: WellStar Medical Group Cardiovascular Medicine Chiropractor: Ribley Chiropractic Dentist: Baird & Baird Family Dentistry Dermatologist: Atlanta North Dermatology & Skin Care ENT/Allergy Center: Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Gastroenterologist: GI Specialists of Georgia

Optometrist/Ophthalmologist: Towne Lake Eye Associates Orthodontist: Smile Doctors Braces by Williams Orthodontics Orthopedic: Resurgens Orthopaedics Pediatric Dentist: Cherokee Children’s Dentistry Pediatrician: Northside Pediatrics Physical Therapist: Innovative Physical Therapy Plastic Surgeon: Marietta Plastic Surgery

General Practitioner: WellStar Medical Group Towne Lake

Podiatrist: Village Podiatry Centers

Obstetrician/Gynecologist: Cherokee Women’s Health

Veterinarian: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake

Medical Center Specialists

Surgeon: Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists

Other Services Accountant: Paragon Accounting & Tax Solutions, LLC Adult Day Care/Respite: Next Step Ministries Attorney: Hait & Kuhn, North Metro Litigators Automotive: Christian Brothers Automotive, Towne Lake Bakery: Alpine Bakery, Woodstock Bank/Credit Union: Credit Union of Georgia, Woodstock Barber Shop: TIE E’s Barber Shop and Ol’ Time Barber Shop Business Support: Big Blue Z Carwash: Towne Lake’s Carwash and Detail Counseling: Center for Relational Care Day Care/Preschool: Hillside Preschool and Academy Day Spa: Salon and Spa Venéssa Dog Trainer: The Doggy Dorm Education Services/Tutor: The STEM Hangar Financial Adviser: TimeWise Financial Fitness/Health Club: R2 Total Fitness Funeral Home: Woodstock Funeral Home Hair Salon: Michael Christian Salon & Dry Bar Health/Wellness: Nature’s Corner Market, Woodstock

Home Improvement: Clearview Softwash &

Pressure Washing

Insurance: Insurance Group of the Southeast Interior Design: Pineapple Park Landscaping/Lawn Care: Calvary Landscaping Mortgage Lending: Credit Union of Georgia Music Lessons: Ralph Iossa Nail Salon: Big Apple Nail and Spa Painter: Three Brothers Painting Pest Control: Arrow Exterminators, Woodstock Pet Boarding: Animal Hospital of Towne Lake Pet Grooming: Canine Chic Grooming Photographer: Megan Metcalf with MaeMae Studios Plumber: Towne Plumber Private School: Hillside Preschool and Academy Realtor: Ursula & Associates, Keller Williams Realty Partners Residential Community: Towne Lake Hills Senior Living Facility: Camellia Place Travel Agency: Free Bird Cruises & All-Inclusive Resorts

Home Cleaning: Vicky’s Cleaning Service

hoice Awards Readers’ Choice Awards TOWNELAKER | June 2019

PHOTOS OF THE WOODSTOCK FARMERS MARKET BY ANGELA RICE, SHOT FROM THE HEART PHOTOGRAPHY TOWNELAKER | June 2019

It’s Farmers Market Season! It’s time to enjoy the sights and sounds - and tastes - of the farmers markets in our county. Nothing beats a meal made from fresh vegetables and locally sourced products.

Canton Farmers Market

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays Cannon Park, 130 E. Main St. On Facebook cantongafarmersmarket@yahoo.com 770-704-1548

The Farmers Market at River Church 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays through Oct. 25 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook Events@RiverAtlanta.org 770-485-1975

Waleska Farmers Market

9 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursdays through Nov. 1 Heritage Farmers Market, 2-6 p.m. Thursdays Heritage Fellowship Church 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 404-805-7468 mrsconleyskitchen@gmail.com

Woodstock Farm Fresh Market

8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays on Market Street 5-8 p.m. Tuesdays at Reformation Brewery, 105 Elm St. On Facebook kbennett@woodstockga.gov 770-924-0406

… And Beyond Acworth: 8 a.m.-noon Fridays at the Logan Farm Park Expansion, 4405 Cherokee St.

Jasper: 7:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays, at the park and ride lot at Lee Newton Park on Highway 53. On Facebook.

Marietta Square: 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays year-round, noon-3 p.m. Sundays May through October. Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market at City Hall: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St.

Sweet Apple: 2-6 p.m. Thursdays, at World Harvest Church, 320 Hardscrabble Road.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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Pricing Your Home for the Best Return BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

It is a common misconception that every homebuyer expects to pay less than the list price when buying a home. Experience has shown us that, when a home is priced at market value in a competitive market, buyers often will pay above market value. A home priced to market, when it's initially listed, creates a sense of urgency with buyers. The correct pricing, in combination with a diverse marketing blitz, brings the most buyers with the highest offers. When your listing is priced at fair market value, a well-represented buyer knows it, and should act accordingly. The buyer's agent should be reviewing recently sold listings and informing his or her client that your listing is priced to market, and won't last long. As you can see in the graph, homes are selling for more than 98% of their list price. This graph illustrates the average ratio of list price to sold price of all single family homes sold in Towne Lake for the past 10 years. This average also includes homes that were overpriced and sold for considerably less than their list price.

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

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TOWNELAKER | June 2019

LANTERN SERIES www.elmstreetarts.org/ lantern-series/

June 1

Violet Bell, Americana

Asheville, North Carolina

June 22

The Lee Boys, Sacred Steel Miami

July 27

House of Waters, World Senegal

Aug. 17

The Lone Bellow

Alternative, Indie Country Nashville

Sept. 7

Soulsha, Funk-Inspired Boston

Oct. 5

Gina Furtado Project, Bluegrass PHOTO COURTESY OF BRONSON KURTZ.

Don’t Miss the Lantern Series BY STACY BROWN

People stopping in at the Woodstock Visitors Center recently have been asking about the Lantern Series presented by Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. The music series takes place on the Event Green at Market and Elm streets. It is a ticketed event, and you can purchase general admission seats or reserve a table for six or eight. The first season included highly respected artists from around the country, like Marc Broussard, Sam Reider and the Human Hands, and the Barefoot Movement. Festivals like South by Southwest and Bonnaroo are common stops on Broussard’s tour schedule. Sam Reider and the Human Hands headlined the Savannah Music Festival, and Jazz at Lincoln Center this year. Country Music Television called the Barefoot Movement “one of the most promising bands on the bluegrass scene.” The experience is unlike any other music event in our community. Tables near the stage are creatively decorated by concertgoers. The delighted faces of engaged attendees glow in the light of lanterns and candelabra. There’s a genuine connection between the artists and audience. 28

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The series was made possible by an endowment from Margaret Jenkins, a resident invested in Woodstock’s art community. Her final gift to its residents was programming that would expose them to deeper musical experiences and spark conversations that ultimately would add depth to Woodstock’s arts culture. We are fortunate to have so many free opportunities to enjoy music, like Woodstock Summer Concert Series at Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater and WDSTK Roots Music Nights on the Elm Street Event Green. There are a lot of places in downtown Woodstock, and throughout the city, that have a full schedule of live music for patrons, and the list is growing. However, the Lantern Series is trying for something different. According to Elm Street Arts Village Executive Director Christopher Braselton, “The series consists of different genres, backgrounds

and even ideologies. We hope to bring the community together to find a literal and figurative common ground at the Lantern Series.” So, it’s troubling to field questions about the series like, “Why should we pay admission for a concert in Woodstock” or “Why should I pay for admission when I can listen for free from the brewery or the trail?” If you’re asking these questions, then possibly the Lantern Series wasn’t created with you in mind. It’s designed for people who are seeking an elevated musical experience. It’s for people who consume the pages of Rolling Stone and expectantly await the next episode of National Public Radio’s “Tiny Desk Concerts.” It’s for people who want to have their perspective changed and their appreciation expanded. Oscar Wilde said, “Nowadays people know the price of everything and the value of nothing.”

Stacy Brown is the Marketing Manager INWDSTK for the city of Woodstock. She can be reached at 678-217-2386 or sbrown@woodstockga.gov.

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Grand Champions

Smoke on the Lake 2019 The 10th annual charity barbecue competition, in conjunction with the Georgia Barbecue Association, was held at Acworth Beach at Cauble Park. New bragging rights were established for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winners. Grand Champions: Sweet Bottom BBQ Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice and Lord of the Wings winners: YMCA The fundraiser is a North Cobb Rotary event, in partnership with the city of Acworth. Visit www.smokeonthelake.com for more details.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

PHOTOS BY BROOKE VANDE ZANDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice and Lord of the Wings

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Where Will Your Retirement Money Come From? DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

For many people, retirement income may come from a variety of sources. Here’s a quick review of the six main sources: Social Security. Social Security is the governmentadministered retirement income program. Workers become eligible after paying Social Security taxes for 10 years. Benefits are based on each worker’s 35 highest earning years. (If there are fewer than 35 years of earnings, nonearning years may be counted in the calculation.) In mid-2018, the average monthly benefit was $1,413.1, 2 Personal Savings and Investments. These resources also can provide income during retirement. Personally, you may want investments that offer steady monthly income over vehicles giving you the potential for double-digit returns. But, remember, a realistic understanding of your ability and willingness to stomach large swings in the value of your investments is a must. A quick chat with a financial professional can help you understand your risk tolerance as you approach retirement. Individual Retirement Accounts. Traditional IRAs have been around since 1974. Contributions you make to a traditional IRA are commonly deductible. Distributions from a traditional IRA are taxed as ordinary income, and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a federal income tax penalty. Once you reach age 70½, these accounts require mandatory withdrawals.3 Roth IRAs were created in 1997. Contributions you make to a Roth IRA are nondeductible, as they are made using money that already has been taxed. Sometimes, only partial Roth IRA contributions can be made by taxpayers with sixfigure incomes; some especially high-earning individuals and couples cannot direct money into Roth IRAs at all. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Contributions may be withdrawn penalty-free at any time. Roth IRAs do not have any required minimum distribution rules.3 Defined Contribution Plans. Many workers are eligible to participate in a defined-contribution plan such as a 401(k), 403(b), or 457 plan. Eligible workers can set aside a portion of their pre-tax income in an account, and the invested assets may accumulate with taxes deferred, year after year. (Some of these accounts are Roth accounts, funded with after-tax dollars.) Generally, once you reach age 70½, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from these workplace plans.4 Defined Benefit Plans. Defined benefit plans are “traditional” pensions – employer-sponsored plans under which benefits, rather than contributions, are defined. Benefits are normally based on specific factors, such as salary history and duration of employment. Relatively few employers offer these kinds of plans today.5 Continued Employment. In a recent survey, 68% of workers stated that they planned to keep working in retirement. In contrast, only 26% of retirees reported that continued employment was a major or minor source of retirement income. Many retirees choose to continue working as a way to stay active and socially engaged. Choosing to work during retirement, however, is a deeply personal decision that should be made after considering your finances and personal goals.6 continued on page 86 Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.

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Civics Lesson in Learning How Laws Are Made ultimately did almost nothing: A hilarious, near-perfect representation of the legislative process. I stole one of my favorite parts of my One of the best twists in this exercise was job as your state representative. It actually when I realized how much better suited stems from an idea developed by Rep. Scot it actually was for adult groups than for Turner of Holly Springs. children. Now, when I get enough time Years ago, he told me about running an allotted to speak to a Rotary club or a group elementary school class through a mock of voters, I put them through the mock General Assembly. The exercise starts with General Assembly. It’s a great opportunity to splitting 20 or so students into a “House take interested adults from a “School House of Representatives” and a “Senate.” A Rock” understanding of the process to a student is chosen to present his or her “this is how it really is” experience. idea for a new law. That “representative” is Sharing personality differences between led through the sausage-making process: chairmen in each chamber and the hot spots from the House Committee to the Rules that a member might get caught in because Committee, over to the Senate and back of the policy goals of other influential (with every possible problem that the Rep. Michael Caldwell leads a Bascomb Elementary politicos can really help broaden perspective legislative process can present for a bill). class through a mock General Assembly. on the experience our representative or Typically, if the “legislator” is fortunate senator has when they’re working to advocate for us. If you belong enough to get their bill through their classmates’ chambers, the to a group that would benefit from this exercise, I’d be honored to game ends with me revealing that I will serve as “governor” for the come play along with you, anytime. day, and I veto the bill. Occasionally, they are able to rally the twoAs always, If you ever have any questions for me, please feel thirds of their colleagues that they need to override gubernatorial free to reach out to me on my cellphone at 678-523-8570 or email veto. But, far more often, I ruin their day, and they finish after me at Michael@caldwellforhouse.com. You also can meet me at about 45 minutes with nothing. one of my Weekly Coffees With District 20 nearly every Saturday I always ask if it seems like a long process to go through just to at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you again end up empty-handed. Without fail, the kids always answer: “Yes!” for allowing me the honor of representing our families in Georgia’s Then, I remind them that it typically takes two to three years for a General Assembly. real legislator to navigate the process. Recently, I was able to do this with the second-graders at Bascomb Elementary School. The students presented bills ranging from mandatory recess (which ironically looked very similar to a bill Michael Caldwell is the state representative for District actually presented in the Legislature this year), free ice cream for 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael. all, to a bill that started by requiring shorter school days, which was Caldwell@house.ga.gov. amended to longer school days in the Senate, and upon passage BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Perimeter North

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Welcoming New Patients! A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Mian is a board-certified physician in family medicine who is proud to serve the families of Canton and North Georgia with the highest standard of care. Dr. Mian works alongside our experienced nurse practitioner, Leslie Jackson NP-C, serving each patient with the time, attention and personalized care you and your family deserve. We offer early office hours for your busy schedule, same-day appointments for sick visits and a convenient, new location in the BridgeMill Community.

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TOWNELAKER | June 2019

High fivin’ dad while on vacation at St. Augustine Beach in April, while temps were still cool.

Stay Cool, Dawg! BY TEDDY THE SPAZ MAN

Ah, summer! The perfect time for vacations, outdoor concerts and long walks around town. But, along with these fun activities also comes sweltering temperatures and sky-high humidity – a combination that can be brutal on us fur kids. It was on one of those blistering days when mom headed outside, failing to grab my leash. “You forgetting something?” I sneered.

“It’s too hot out, Spaz Man,” she replied. “Go back inside where it’s cool.” “Uggh!” I whined, “Why do I have to be so hot?!” With a roll of her eyes, she said, “You mean, ‘Why does it have to be so hot?’” “Yeah, yeah,” I snapped. “Whatevs.” But, of course, she was right. After all, last year we saw two dogs collapse on the trail from heat exhaustion. That was scary! So, when temps start climbing, we stay safe by following a few simple rules.

• Never leave pets in a parked car.

Don’t do it — not even for a minute — even with the car running, windows down and the air conditioner on (air conditioners can quit, it happened to someone I know, while their pup was inside). On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes, even with the windows open. In 30 minutes, it can rise to a scorching 120. So, please, leave your pets home. And, if you see a pet left unattended in a car, call 911 immediately.

• Avoid midday walks. Exercise dogs in the early morning or late evening when temps are cooler. 36

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

• Keep pets inside, especially on hot days with high humidity. A

90-degree day with just 75% humidity will feel like 109, meaning a dog’s body temperature will skyrocket to dangerous levels very quickly, so keeping pets inside is best. If pets have to be outside, provide shade and well-ventilated areas, along with plenty of water.

• Drink up and cool down. Always carry bottles of water and offer it to your dog often. Look for bowls of water in downtown Woodstock from businesses such as Copper Coin, Tiny Bubbles and Spirited Boutique. And, of course, my Spaz Man Dog Bar always has water and treats — you can even cool your dog off with a spritz from our hose. It’s located on the Greenprints Trail between Reformation Brewery and Paden Street. Together, we can help all fur babies stay cool this summer! Even super hot ones like me. Wink, wink. Teddy the Spaz Man is a social media dog and not-so-humble Hallmark star living in downtown Woodstock. Facebook/Instagram: @teddythespazman.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

As with any nonprofit, volunteers are the backbone of Refuge Rescue.

Refuge Rescue

Woodstock nonprofit began from a personal love story. “You are going to do it. You are going to be a refuge for homeless dogs, like our Lord is a refuge.” There are many people who rescue a dog or a cat, and Within 33 days of that proclamation, with full support later discover that it really was the other way around. Furry from her husband, Refuge Rescue (RR), became a registered friends love you no matter what, are unconditional listeners, nonprofit, and a shelter license and kennel space to board dogs and great support in times of need. It was no different for was obtained. Michele Lopez, the founder of Refuge Rescue in Woodstock. “I had no idea what I was getting into, but I wouldn’t have “I saved a dog who saved me,” Lopez stopped,” Lopez said. said. “A friend in law enforcement had Now, four years later, RR is going busted a drug house where the residents strong, and has saved more than a owned American bulldogs. Normal thousand dogs. protocol is to euthanize these animals, The nonprofit recently accepted 15 but instead he called me to find them neglected, emaciated, matted, precious homes. I met Angel that day. Soon after, dogs from the South Georgia puppy I received a cancer diagnosis. Although I mill bust in March. The dogs are doing have a great husband, it was Angel, who much better today, but this situation has helped me the most through all the ups taxed the nonprofit’s resources greatly. and downs, sickness, all of the times I The positive side is because of Lopez’s felt like giving up, and even when I didn’t medical background as a registered think I was going to live. She is the love trauma nurse, she is able to assist the and light of my life, my Angel. vet for free, which cuts down on the “After completing cancer treatments, veterinarian costs. Many of her rescues I made a decision,” she continued. have medical issues, not just the dogs “Instead of focusing on myself, I wanted from the puppy mill case. to put that energy into something good. “When I read about the puppy mill dogs, I wanted to make a difference in the lives I knew I had to do something,” supporter of homeless dogs.” Cheryl Duron said. “I contacted Refuge During a church small group meeting, Rescue, and I guess you can say, the Refuge Rescue head volunteer coordinator Lopez shared that she wanted to help dogs rest is history. Since volunteering, I have Jeanne Zschunke with puppies rescued from a like Angel. Her pastor’s wife responded, witnessed some of the most rewarding high-kill shelter. BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Founder Michelle Lopez.

Susan and Spud.

changes in these dogs. The time spent at RR is a privilege and it’s wonderful to be a part of something that really makes a difference. The love and caring for the dogs is a reward in itself, and you can’t beat the people, either. Every living thing deserves to be loved. The dogs that pass through RR find that love.” Yes, true love is only a wag away. There are many ways to get involved at RR. You can work at the kennel, adopt, foster, donate food, supplies, or financially, and even borrow a furry friend to take a walk. The possibilities are endless. To find out more, and to see which dogs are available for adoption or fostering, visit www.refugerescue.org or call 678-250-DOGS (3647). The mailing address is: P.O. Box 1923, Woodstock, GA 30188.

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

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Rob’s Rescues I interviewed Dr. Chris Mowry, a biology professor at Berry College in Rome, Georgia, and in charge of the Atlanta Coyote Project (www.atlantacoyoteproject.org).

What is the Atlanta Coyote Project (ACP)?

This dog’s name is Woody. He is 7 years old and walks well on a leash. He goofs off and wags his tail a lot. He is an owner surrender and is super active. He loves to be patted on the head and massaged on the neck. He likes people a lot, and is super friendly and gentle.

The ACP is a way of educating the public about coyotes and urban wildlife, and forms the basis for scientific research of coyote, which then leads to bigger studies of coyote, their habitat and ecosystem.

Why did you start this?

Dr. Chris Mowry and Rob at Berry College.

As a biology professor I was interested in getting my students involved in scientific research. There is also a need for public education, and this provides credible scientific information for the public.

What do you like about coyotes?

Their adaptability. They are so good at adapting to a number of environments and habitats. They are smart, loyal to their family and interesting animals.

What do you like the least about coyotes?

There is nothing I don't like about them. What I like least about studying coyotes is the misconceptions people have about them.

What is a story that you love to tell?

It is a story that we're telling right now. Coyotes can promote biodiversity. Our research is showing a wide variety of different species exists in areas where there are coyotes. Coyotes are the apex predator and keep other species in check, thus keeping a balance in the whole ecosystem of an area.

What is coyotes' favorite food?

It depends on the time of year. They eat a wide variety of foods. One thing they really like are persimmon fruits.

What can I and the community do to help the ACP? This cat is Sullivan. He is very pretty, and the most playful cat I have seen in this shelter. His neck tilts about 160 degrees! He is 11 months old and is super curious. He came to the shelter as a stray. He purrs so loudly, and is so similar to my own cat.

If people have concerns and need information, please visit the website. It is easy to coexist with them peacefully. Killing coyotes is not the answer from an ethical and practical point of view. Although it sounds counter-intuitive, it actually leads to more coyotes. We encourage people to report coyote sightings on the website, and be citizen scientists and help with research.

What are coyote personalities like?

It depends on the role they play in the family, what time of the year it is, and if pups are in the picture. When there are pups in the den, the alpha male protects the den and brings food to the den. Older brothers and sisters may also do the same job. At other times of the year, the family group may be less cohesive. continued on page 86

Follow Rob! @robsrescues 40

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Changing the Focus Makes the Move Easier BY SHELLEY WINTER

“I’m not moving.” These can be the most difficult words a concerned child may hear from their elderly parent(s). How does a worried family member convince a reluctant mom or dad to move into a senior living community? We all want to stay in our own homes for as long as we can, but sometimes it is not in our loved one’s best interest. How do we talk with them about the dangers of staying at home once their health starts to decline? Focus on the positive aspects. Many seniors thrive in an assisted-living setting. There is no responsibility of maintaining a home. There’s trained staff around the clock in case residents need help. Nutritious meals and snacks are available. Seniors also can make new friends, and have a choice of various types of activities.

Here are some tips to help you broach the subject with your parents. • Start the conversation by mentioning the benefits and peace of mind that increased safety measures will offer both of you. • Tour assisted-living communities together. This might include a lunch at the community or participating in an activity with other residents. You can help them become more comfortable with the idea by introducing them to what everyday life could look like.

• If an event occurs, such as a fall, use this as an opportunity to give your loved one a gentle reality check. • Reinforce the benefits, such as seniors can forgo daily chores and focus on things they want to do. • Arrange a family meeting, and allow everyone involved to discuss their concerns about the current situation and a potential move. • Present facts. Compile a list of logical reasons why they should move, and avoid opinions. • Enlist the help of a friend or doctor to help join the conversation. Often, someone at an assisted -living community can partner with you, and develop a strategy to make your parent(s) feel more comfortable with the move. Convincing your parents to move into an assisted-living community can be a daunting task. You may be met with sharp resistance. We, as their children, are concerned for their health and have only the best intentions for their wellbeing. Make it about your parent and not about you. Be patient and put yourself in their shoes.

Shelley Winter, community relations director at Oaks at Towne Lake, has worked in assisted living/memory care communities since 2008. 770-592-2195. shelley@oaksseniorliving.com.

Cotton Swabs Can Cause Ear Damage BY DR. SARAH LICHT

As the saying goes, never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear! If you look closely, most warning labels on the boxes of cotton swabs instruct you never to insert them in your ears. While some individuals use cotton swabs to help relieve itching, others use them to remove wax or water in the ear canal after a shower. None of these scenarios warrants the use of a cotton swab. Your ear canal mostly is made up of ridged cartilage covered by skin. As the ear canal inches closer to the eardrum, it becomes skin on bone. Your ear canal is supposed to work as a conveyer belt, and naturally remove wax itself. In most cases, a cotton swab pushes the wax deeper into the ear, rather than removing it. Wax (also known as cerumen) can come in different colors and textures. Earwax is made up of dead skin cells, hair and secretions from the outer ear’s skin cells. Having a certain amount of cerumen in your ear canal is healthy. It is a natural antibiotic that helps coat your ear, and makes it more water42

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

resistant. In addition, it is a natural insect repellent that helps keep bugs out of your ears. In a best-case scenario, when using cotton swabs, you relieve some itching in your ear and see discoloration when you pull the swab out of your ear, leading you to believe that you have removed some wax. The worst-case scenario is that you puncture your eardrum, which is a delicate structure, or even lodge the cotton ball piece deep in your ear. In lieu of swabs, we recommend wax softeners, such as Miracell, Debrox or home remedies of 50% lukewarm water and 50% hydrogen peroxide, to help with cerumen removal. If you have a frequent buildup of wax, you should be seen every six months for routine removal by an audiologist, otolaryngologist or primary care physician.

Sarah Licht, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2016.

Southwest Area Plan: Citizens in Action of life as a condition of further expansion. The Board of Commissioners placed a moratorium through mid-June A wise person told me, “The world is run by those who on new industrial zoning in the area. Through county show up.” I’ve recently seen in action a group of citizens planning staff, we’ve undertaken to create a detailed who showed up and are making a difference in their plan, with a goal to allow reasonable continuation of neighborhood. the economic development while reasonably The Highway 92 corridor in southwest Cherokee, protecting residents in the area. between Woodstock Road and I-75, has become an About 30-50 people showed up at each of three public important area for economic development planning meetings. I was concerned in our county. It started 10 years ago, with their input might be mostly negative. Cherokee 75 is an initiative by the Cherokee Office of There was a bit of that, but it’s been the Economic Development, which purchased highly successful, minority. Mostly, it’s been good citizens and developed land for the Cherokee 75 offering constructive suggestions for Business Park. Business parks are the core of and already how to protect and improve their area. the county’s efforts to attract quality jobs. Planning staff has done a great job of has produced They ensure that, when a quality employer positively channeling the energy. Working more than 1,500 is looking for a place to locate, we have a in small groups, participants put pen site ready for them. to paper on their visions for the best good jobs. Cherokee 75 is highly successful, and development plans. Planning staff is already has produced more than 1,500 good using that input to create a professional jobs. The chance to work closer to home plan for the area. I’m optimistic the plan will meet the improves the quality of life for those employees, takes potentially conflicting goals for the area ... a true win-win. pressure off congested highways, and helps keep our tax This process has been a classic example of people rates low. As the investment already there is fully phased effecting change by showing up. I’ll add one more into the tax digest, it will produce about $2 million in dimension to the adage from my wise friend: The world is annual tax revenues. Two-thirds of that tax goes to run by people who show up and engage constructively! support our school system, without directly putting any students in schools. But, the industry, and especially the large warehouses in the area, became a concern to some of the residents. Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board These citizens organized, helped elect a county of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting commissioner they felt would be sensitive to their manager, and a former district commissioner. concerns, and asked for a detailed plan to protect quality BY HARRY JOHNSTON

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Understanding Pain That Comes and Goes BY AMBER YORK, DC

It’s not uncommon for people to experience physical pain that changes locations or intensity, depending on their activity, weather patterns, or even the time of day. Pain can come from a variety of tissues and mechanisms, and the type of pain you experience largely depends on the structure that is injured, and the presence of inflammation. The body and spine are unique structures that are influenced by motion. One movement may cause pain, while the same movement may provide pain relief. For example, the intervertebral disc in the neck and lower back may be affected by leaning forward. This is caused by an increase in pressure being placed on the disc, resulting in that familiar twinge of pain. In comparison, the facet joints of the neck and lower back may cause compression of the tissues when you lean backward, causing a similar pain. Simple positional changes also may irritate or compress the nerves directly, while other positions can allow the nerve some room to breathe. The position of your body and posture also can influence flareups of pain and relieve symptoms throughout the day. Whether your posture is slumped when sitting or standing, slouching can cause spinal muscles to tighten and even spasm. To help reduce your risk of pain, sit up straight, shoulders back, head up and

move frequently, getting up to walk around, stretch, and readjust your posture. Inflammation, the body’s response to an injury, naturally waxes and wanes throughout the day. Anytime you have a change in your activity level, inflammation of the damaged structures changes, too. For example, rest may be prescribed for individuals experiencing pain, to allow the body to heal. While complete rest isn’t practical for most people, a full day of running the kids around or sitting at your desk or in rush hour traffic may case inflammation to flare up. The surrounding muscles may attempt to work overtime to protect the injured areas and heal the inflammation, but this can last only so long before the muscles themselves tire out, and the pain returns. Fluctuating pain can be confusing, leaving you frustrated. If you are experiencing pain, speak with your trusted health care provider to help find the cause of your discomfort, and to help get you on the road to recovery.

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

The Importance of Women’s Pelvic Health BY PEAHEN GANDHI, MD, FACOG, FPMRS

Mandy is a young mother of three children who recently had her annual gynecology exam. During her appointment, Mandy smiled and politely said, “Fine,” when asked how she was doing. But, as she answered more questions, the real story came out. Since delivering her third child, Mandy’s bladder has been leaky. She used to love tennis, but can’t play anymore because of the stress it puts on her bladder. She also admitted she constantly has the uncomfortable feeling that her “insides are falling down.” Mandy has pelvic health issues. Like many women, she has accepted the changes in her body and given up on activities that have brought her happiness, such as tennis and aerobics. The fact is, one-quarter of women face pelvic health problems. The foundation for pelvic health is the pelvic floor - a versatile set of muscles that works 24/7, supporting the uterus, cervix, vagina, bladder and rectum. Pelvic health encompasses four broad categories.

1. Normal functioning of the bladder, and the portion of the digestive system that includes the bowel and rectum.

2. Well supported reproductive organs. A woman with good

pelvic health will have no uncomfortable feeling of sagging, pressure or “falling.” 3. No significant pain or dysfunction in the pelvic area, whether from aging, childbirth or past injuries due to surgeries or accidents. 4. Good sexual function and sensation. 44

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Risk Factors

There are certain conditions and stages of life that can affect the health of the pelvic floor. • Pregnancy/childbirth. Childbirth puts a strain on the pelvic area during delivery. • Menopause. Pelvic floor muscles weaken in menopause, leading to pelvic organ prolapse. • Heredity. Having a mother or sister with pelvic floor disorder puts a woman at higher risk. • Obesity. Overweight or obese women have increased pressure on the bladder and frequently lack strength in their bladder muscles.

Additional Risk Factors

Constipation/chronic straining, diet, smoking, heavy lifting/ exertion, lung conditions/chronic coughing, nerve injuries and other health conditions.

Treatments

Medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, noninvasive procedures or pelvic reconstructive surgery can help improve pelvic health. Complete pelvic health diagnosis and treatment can best be addressed by a specialist known as a urogynecologist: an OB/GYN who is board certified in the subspecialty of female pelvic medicine and reproductive medicine or FPMRS. If you experience problems with bladder or fecal leakage, pelvic pain, the sensation of your insides ”falling down,” or impaired sexual function, seek treatment from a pelvic health specialist. Like Mandy, you’ll soon be back to enjoying life again.

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TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Easy and Healthy: Beating Mosquitoes and Ticks BY ANN LITREL

My family is outside in the summer. A LOT. My husband and sons are the BBQ Guys. They never met a meat group they didn’t like. I’m the Gardener, spring and summer. The four of us share the yard with hawks, foxes, and 17 resident turtles (to date). Along with them are hundreds of small colorful songbirds, lizards and frogs, who depend on the plentiful insects and caterpillars for food. Over the past 20 years, I’ve

planted our small yard with layers of native shrubs and flowers, which feed and shelter this wildlife. The health of these animals depends on the presence of insects.

Safe and Effective Solutions for Enjoying Your Yard

Many chemical bug sprays that are “safe” for people (nonfatal in small doses) are lethal to insects – not just the pesky ones, but to butterflies and pollinator bees, as well. Our pets, too, are suffering from our chemical use. A mountain of research documents

accumulated toxin loads in our dogs and cats at levels much higher than ours. Most of us recognize that our chemical-dependent pest solutions should be phased out, not increased. But, we want to be comfortable. For mosquito and tick season, I don’t spray my yard. I’ve found two healthy options that are not only effective for people, but safe for our birds and butterflies – and for the long-term health of the community.

Picardin bug repellent for mosquitoes and ticks.

Picardin is a pepper-like ingredient with all the benefits of DEET, and none of the downsides. It’s long-lasting and effective, without the heavy chemical smell or toxicity warnings. I’ve been using Sawyer Insect Repellent, which comes in a large lotion dispenser. It has been incredibly effective. The consumer advocate organization Environmental Working Group lists insect repellents with Picardin as effective for 8-10 hours against mosquitoes and ticks.

Pedestal fan to eliminate flying bugs. If you’ve ever been on a beach without a breeze, you know that the biting flies can come out in swarms. Guess what? A tall pedestal fan blowing on your grill or outside table works the same way as an ocean breeze – it drives the insects away. Consumer Reports found that just one pedestal fan (for as little as $20-$50) can keep an outdoor space mosquito-free. During bug season, it’s not hard to pick something healthy – you just have to look. We can continue to build a healthy community, and not get mosquito bites for our trouble! For more information, go to Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org) or Pollinator-Friendly Yards on Facebook.

Ann Litrel is an artist, writer and certified Master Naturalist. She works in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake. ART BY ANN LITREL, ANNLITREL.COM

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

The Faces of Sleep-Disordered The symptoms seem vague and hard to pinpoint to a specific issue: headaches, your face feels tired in the morning, ear aches a bit, neck is tight. Children can experience bed wetting, irritability and issues at school. You decide to consult medical specialists: an ENT for the ear pain, a chiropractor for the neck, a neurologist for the headaches, and a psychiatric evaluation for your child. You have no idea who to call about the facial fatigue. These aches, pains and social issues can be symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), in adults and children. In adults, the inability to breathe correctly can be linked to a higher risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension. It’s not uncommon: studies show that 25% of Americans have sleep and breathing disorders, with 90% of those undiagnosed. Getting a diagnosis and a treatment plan isn’t difficult. You just need to know where to start.

It Takes a Team

Patients can avoid multiple doctor visits by making an appointment at Dentistry for Woodstock, which screens for and treats pediatric sleep disorders. Typically, patients make appointments for treatment of tooth decay and gum disease, crowns, fillings and root canals. Dr. Bruce Fink wants the community to know that he, along with a team of medical professionals, has a passion to help pediatric patients with sleep disordered breathing as well. “For more than two decades, I have helped patients with their dental needs. I find it especially rewarding to help people who are suffering from sleep-disordered breathing, because the results are life-changing,” said Fink, who has pursued continuing education on this topic in the U.S. and abroad. “I have relationships with local ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians and other health care providers, such as

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

CT Scans are utilized for accuracy in diagnostic collaboration with other medical professionals.

pulmonologists, chiropractors and primary care physicians to collaborate on a patient’s care and work as a team to diagnose and provide treatment options.”

Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms vary in adults and children, but here are the most common ones. • Headaches, migraines • Insomnia • TMJ (jaw pain) • ADHD/ADD • Snoring • Bed wetting • Clenching/grinding of teeth • Night sweats • Chapped lips

Screening Is Essential

According to a 2012 article published in the American Academy of Pediatrics, all children and adolescents should be screened for snoring, because the presence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), when reported by a parent, is between 4% and 11%. In the pediatric population, OSA can be resolved, while in adults it only can be managed. In a 2004 article in the journal Sleep, Drs. Paola Pirelli and Christian Guilleminault published their research on curing sleep apnea in children with maxillary palatal expansion. They took 31 children — mean age of 8.7 years and a mean hypopnea index of 12.2 events per hour — and brought them to fewer than one event per hour. Hypopnea is abnormally slow or shallow breathing. Children are diagnosed with sleep apnea if they have more than one event per hour. The most recognizable symptom of SDB is bruxism, or teeth clenching and grinding. Sleep bruxism is connected to hypopnea. To try to breathe properly, we awake during the night and sleep is disrupted. Sleep bruxism and tooth wear can indicate the presence of SDB. Chair side care is a huge part of patients understanding the treatment they receive. Dr. Fink’s goal is to provide proper screening for pediatric patients, so they can “I was very relieved and excited to see a friend post on receive effective care. Facebook about Dr. Fink! It’s difficult to find a practitioner “One way is by providing orthodontic treatment for who is aware of these issues and willing to work to solve these conditions. I follow the protocols of educators like Dr. the problem, instead of just covering up the symptoms. Steven Olmos and Dr. Christian Guilleminault, who stated: My 4-year-old was recently fitted with a BioBloc and, after ‘Today, the field of orthodontia plays an important role in a day or two of adjustment, is doing wonderfully with the the diagnosis and treatment of sleep-disordered breathing device. My husband and I have already seen a blossoming syndromes.’” of his personality. He seems to have more energy and spunk!” Relief for Parent and Child Carrie wants to be a resource for others with similar “I’m Carrie Willard, a wife and mom of seven in concerns. You can reach her at www.carriewillard.com/bf. Kennesaw. When I noticed that my youngest child, a former 27-weeker preemie, was grinding his teeth at night and breathing through his mouth, I was immediately concerned. “My 18-year-old son Julien had experienced similar issues. After doing a deep dive into the research, I found that the severe dental decay he had experienced as a baby, as well as the teeth crowding, were all related to his sleep problems. It was hard to find a dentist familiar with this technology, but I finally located someone, and he was fitted with an orthotropic device several years ago that changed everything.

PHOTOS BY J.KING IMAGES

Breathing

For More Information

Whether you or your child suffer from sleep and breathing disorders, or have other dental needs, Dentistry for Woodstock is ready to help. The practice offers general and cosmetic dental treatments, including teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, preventative care, family dentistry, veneers, endodontics, periodontal services, dental implants, and treatment for TMD and sleep issues. The consultation is free.

Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | June 2019

PHOTO BY J. KING IMAGES

There’s an App for That! Changing the way real estate is bought and sold.

ris McKeeth began her real estate career in Texas in 1986. She moved to Georgia in 1992, and immediately began working in local real estate. The Premier Group (TPG) office, located in downtown Woodstock, opened in October 2011, and team owner McKeeth never has looked back. In fact, McKeeth, who provides direction and vision at TPG, and her team are focused on the technologybased enhancements that Keller Williams is rolling out this year. “The way real estate is bought and sold will change tremendously over the next decade,” McKeeth said. She is referring to the Keller Williams Realty mobile app, now available through the App Store and Google Play. The app makes buying and selling a home easier than ever. New features are coming in 2019! Download the app today and be one of the first to gain access to the best technology hitting the market. Personalized Service Is High Priority Although technology may be making leaps forward in the real estate industry, customer service never will take a back seat at TPG. The company’s mission statement makes that clear: TPG is a communitybased, full-service real estate firm that holistically consults with our clients

to create positive transactions, and lasting and rewarding relationships. So, while an app may make it more convenient to conduct a search for your dream home, you don’t have to give up personalized service from a team of professionals who are “all about doing what is best for our clients,” McKeeth said. “Our team has more than 50 years of combined real estate experience, and we are the No. 1 sales team at Keller Williams Realty Partners.” The numbers speak for themselves. 2018 total sales volume: $41,534,729 2019 average days on market: 12 days 2019 list price to sales price: 99% Making Woodstock Home Woodstock is more than a place to work for TPG team members. It’s also where they live, and they value the opportunity to help others connect in the community. In order to build long-term, valuable relationships with clients, TPG holds an annual Pie Day each fall. “It’s a long-standing tradition, where we get to celebrate our clients by offering their families pie,” McKeeth said. The team at TPG is ready to help you with your home-buying or selling needs. Download the app today, and let their experience and customer care get you into the home of your dreams.

CURRENT APP FEATURES: MAP IT. Add a pinpoint or draw a perimeter to see nearby homes for sale, open houses or rental properties. CUSTOMIZED SEARCHES. Add search filters, like price, neighborhood, number of bedrooms, open houses and more. CHECK THE LOCAL SCENE. See what schools and other points of interest are nearby. FULL-SCREEN PHOTO GALLERY. Scroll through vivid, full-screen photos of homes. ANYTIME ACCESS. Save searches and listings, including notes or added property photos, across all your devices. GET SOCIAL. Easily share homes through text, email, Facebook or Twitter. BE CALCULATED. Free mortgage calculator to estimate home loan and monthly payments. CONNECT WITH TPG. Start sending property inquiries instantly. Exciting new features include artificial intelligence, making the app smarter and more human-like.

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Kitchen Design Trends • Social kitchens, with

adequate and comfortable seating, like a comfy sitting room, where you happen to cook.

• Open floor plans, kitchens

that are open to the family room.

• Cabinets installed all the way up to the ceiling.

• Emerging trends include

wall-mounted flat screen televisions in the kitchen, induction and steam cooking, more color, and French door ovens.

• Farmhouse kitchens

featuring natural materials, lots of wood (usually rustic), unpretentious design, and cooking spaces that can accommodate large meals.

• Touch-activated faucets, pull-out faucets.

• White and gray are the

most popular colors for the kitchen, followed by blue, black and beige.

• According to a recent Houzz survey, the most popular cabinet color choices (in order of preference) are white, medium to dark wood tones, and gray.

• Under-cabinet lighting, task lighting.

• Smart storage solutions,

like lazy Susans, to make potentially wasted corners fully functional; pullout drawers; customized drawers and cabinets.

• Large sinks with deep bowls.

Top, white cabinets continue to be a popular choice in kitchen remodels. Photo provided by Elisabeth Stubbs. 52

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Taking on a Kitchen Remodel BY ELISABETH STUBBS

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen, but not sure where to start? Begin by putting together a detailed wish list, indicating your goals for remodeling. Do you want more space? More storage? More style? Organize it by priority, from the "must-haves" to the "in our dreams" categories. Use websites like Pinterest and Houzz to view and collect pictures of rooms, products, materials and architectural details that appeal to you. Visit model homes and vendor showrooms, and take pictures of what appeals to you. Make notes on what you like about friends' kitchens (and hate about your own), and general concepts translated from other areas of your life. For example, glass-front cabinets and open shelving are very popular, but, if you are not a cleaning fanatic, you may be happier with solid doors that conceal clutter. Be prepared to be patient, because a kitchen remodel can take several months, even after the design is finalized. Custom cabinets usually take around four to six weeks for delivery. The extent of the job, the contractor’s workload and the availability of materials also have an effect. Once the materials have been delivered, installation often can be completed in as little as two to four weeks. Make sure you approach your project with a realistic budget in mind. Every year, Remodeling Magazine does an extensive survey of recent kitchen remodels in Atlanta. In 2018, a minor kitchen remodel averaged $22,506. A major kitchen remodel was $66,246. An upscale kitchen renovation averaged $131,669. These are all-inclusive prices, including new appliances, countertops, sink and faucet, flooring and paint. The distinction between a minor and major kitchen remodel primarily involves what is done with the cabinets. A major kitchen remodel includes new cabinets. A minor remodel does not include changing the cabinet boxes, only refinishing or painting the existing cabinets.

Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.

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“We are a company that understands people with special needs since the name of our company is the name of our daughter, who has Down syndrome. Our company is above the competition in relation to good presentation, service and the price of our services. We provide a short waiting time and available units all the time. The main concern of our company is to provide the best service. Our company has a call center where the user is registered for personalized and effective treatment. We have all the legal permits in our company to provide security and very good satisfaction.”

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Expert Surgical Care for the Cherokee Community

Northside Cherokee Surgical Associates is a full-service practice specializing in general surgery. Our board-certified physician, Dr. Grant Wolfe, uses the latest minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic techniques to treat the full spectrum of abdominal, thyroid, and soft tissue disorders. Grant Wolfe, M.D.

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Plan Your Picnic Provisions away from the edges of the tortilla. Fold the sides in, then roll tightly and wrap with plastic wrap. You can’t have sandwiches or roll-ups without some sides, So, you’ve decided to brave the heat for the day and go on a but be careful to avoid anything with a high mayo content. An picnic. The burning question (pun intended) is, “What should you alternative is to make potato salad with boiled red potatoes, take to eat that won’t sit like lead in everyone’s stomachs?” You quartered, mixed with feta cheese and Italian dressing. Pasta salad want to satisfy everyone’s hunger pangs without running the risk can be made with your favorite veggies, such as cherry tomatoes, of salmonella in the outdoor oven, i.e. summer in Georgia. shredded carrots, marinated mushrooms, Snacks are a picnic must-have as or even thinly sliced yellow squash or everyone likes something to nibble on zucchini. Mix veggies with cooked pasta before they sit down for the meal. Trail and add a sauce of 2 tablespoons plain mix is great for picnics because it’s easy Greek yogurt mixed with ¼ cup Italian to eat on the move, and it does not need dressing or pesto. A little shredded to be refrigerated. Start with a simple bag parmesan or feta also is a nice addition. of store-bought mix, then add raisins or Fresh fruit is always a good picnic idea. other dried fruit, nuts (such as roasted Grapes and blueberries can be frozen walnuts or almonds), popcorn or candyand put in a zip top bag to chill your covered chocolate pieces. cooler contents, then enjoyed as either Another snack idea are veggie rolla frozen treat or as ice in your lemonade ups. Finely chop one cup each carrots, Roll-ups hold together much better for picnic or iced tea. Chocolate chip cookies are a cauliflower and broccoli. Pour into a bowl transportation if left whole and not sliced. fantastic dessert choice to take on your and toss with 1 teaspoon seasoned salt picnic because they transport well, and even if they heat up, the or garlic salt. In a separate bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream chocolate chips will still be tasty even if slightly melted. cheese with ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayo, your choice), with No matter what your cooler contents are when you set out 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning. Divide cream cheese mixture for your big adventure, make sure your day is packed with good among four flour tortillas, spreading it within an inch of the edge. company and good times will follow. Happy Cooking! Divide veggie mixture into four parts, and spread veggies on top of cream cheese on each tortilla. Roll tortillas, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour. Leave the tortilla wrapped until ready to slice. Lay the sliced pieces flat to serve. Speaking of roll-ups, tortillas are a great carrier for food on-theTiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and is volunteer coordinator/scheduler for the Booth Western Art Museum. go. Lay cooked, shredded chicken, pork or even deli meat in the She enjoys spending time with her family and furbabies. middle of a flour or corn tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, You can contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com. and your favorite condiment, making sure to keep at least 1-inch BY TIFFANY HUGHES

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients • 2 sticks butter, softened • ½ cup granulated sugar • ½ cup packed brown sugar • 2 large eggs • 1 tsp. pure vanilla

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour • 1 tsp. baking soda • 1 tbs. cornstarch • 12 oz. package semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugars together. Add the eggs and vanilla, and mix well, then scrape bowl. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda and cornstarch, then pour into the butter mixture. Turn mixture on just until combined. Remove bowl from stand mixer, and stir in chocolate chips by hand (dough will be very thick). Drop cookie dough by teaspoonful onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or just until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown. Remove from heat and immediately place on a cooling rack. When cool, store in an airtight container. NOTE: Peanut butter chips are great to use instead of chocolate, or do half and half. A cup of chopped pecans, or walnuts, can be stirred in with the chocolate chips.

Slow Cooker Trail Mix Ingredients • 3 cups corn square cereal • 3 cups O-shaped cereal • 3 cups small cheese crackers • 2 cups pretzels

• 2 cups roasted peanuts • 4 tbs. melted butter • 3 tbs. dry ranch seasoning • 1 tsp. salt, or more, to taste • ¼ cup Worcestershire

Directions In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients. In a smaller bowl, stir dry ranch and salt into butter, and mix well. Whisk in Worcestershire, then drizzle over the dry ingredients and stir well to combine. Place in slow cooker for four hours on low, stirring every 20 minutes. Remove from slow cooker and let cool before adding chocolate candies, dried fruit or popcorn.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Foster Care: What’s the IMPACT? BY ZACH BLEND

When preparing to take on the responsibilities associated with being a foster parent, it is important to be fully prepared. This might include speaking to others who have served in a similar capacity, reading a book or article about the topic, or discussing the subject with your family about how this new experience might change or alter your daily life. I encourage everyone to take these steps, especially the last one. Still, in my opinion, nothing is more important in preparing you for the rigors of being a foster parent than IMPACT Training. IMPACT Training is a mandatory preparation program for all foster parents. It consists of 20 hours of training for prospective parents to learn about the foster care system, child development, the role of working in partnership with biological parents, to develop skills to help meet the needs of children in care, and to understand the overall effect foster care will have on their lives and family. Brittany Jean, a former foster child who now acts as a child welfare advocate and IMPACT Trainer, recently said, “I believe that IMPACT pre-service training is vital for incoming foster parents, because it lays the foundation for their continued learning while inspiring them to take the plunge into the unknown of foster parenting. Our goal is that, at the conclusion of pre-service training, our foster parents will be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to be

a bridge between vulnerable families and the community support systems available to them. During IMPACT preservice training, foster parents gain an introductory overview of the myriad of topics crucial to understanding how the foster care system works, the societal factors that place families in vulnerable scenarios, and the practical tools necessary for providing supporting and healing to these families.” Before beginning an IMPACT class, one must attend an information session. The information session acts as the first phase of IMPACT pre-service training/preparation, and is mandatory for all potential foster and adoptive families. Each of the agencies (DFCS, FaithBridge, Goshen Homes) that serve the Cherokee County community schedules these meetings on a regular basis. You can learn more, or begin the journey to fostering, by visiting their websites. www. fostergeorgia.com/impact-pre-service-training www.faithbridgefostercare.org www. goshenvalley.org/homes

Zach Blend is CEO of the Goshen Valley Foundation and a Georgia Trend 40 Under 40 recipient. He and his wife, Rachel, have three children, and are members of Hillside UMC. zblend@goshenvalley.org.

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RENDERING BY BARBARA RATNER

The Well at New 12,000-Square-Foot Facility to be a Place of Hope and Healing

he Goshen Valley Boys Ranch in Waleska is growing to meet the needs of the young men in foster care who live at the Ranch. A new 12,000-squarefoot wellness center will offer a range of activities that previously weren’t available for the residents, and a muchneeded resource for staff and volunteers. The $1.5 million Goshen Community Wellness Center (The Well) will include a full-size gymnasium, training rooms for the ranch’s staff members, tutoring and counseling space, as well as a health clinic. Nov. 1 is the expected completion date. The project is funded by contributions from metro Atlanta foundations, local partners and corporations, and the Community Development Block Grant. “This is long overdue. Our kids and our community deserve a first-class facility where the Goshen experience can be enhanced and the outcomes we provide be that much stronger,” CEO Zach Blend said. “We believe the addition of the Goshen Community Wellness Center will do just that. This space will be used daily on purpose and with purpose.” Since 2001, the 300-acre Goshen Valley Boys Ranch has created a safe and loving home for boys, ages 8-18, who are in foster care. Currently, the property has six homes filled with more than 40 boys and their house parents. The Well is situated near the front of the property. While The Well will enhance the lives of the boys on the ranch, it also will serve the volunteers who spend countless hours on the property. The ranch hosts roughly 2,500 volunteers each year who help in a variety of ways: providing meals, working in the clothes

Community Wellness Center

closet, participating in activities with the boys, and performing maintenance and outdoor projects. The second Saturday of each month is devoted to service. “The space will be utilized first and foremost by those living at Goshen Valley Boys Ranch, with a priority placed on physical fitness, therapeutic and educational support, and staff training. As beautiful as our current campus is, it has limitations,” Blend said. “The Well will create an environment of activity and learning that our existing facility is without. We envision the community utilizing the space as well, by hosting regional trainings and conferences, and having the potential to expand for community use in the future.” Blend and the staff at Goshen Valley constantly are looking for ways to serve children in foster care. Since the ranch opened in 2001, several new programs have been added. Currently, the Goshen Valley Foundation is comprised of three agencies. 1. The Ranch. More than 600 boys have called Goshen Valley Boys Ranch their home since the first child moved in in 2001. All boys participate in therapeutic counseling, public school

education, and a comprehensive recreation program, while living in a unique, family-based home with fulltime house parents. 2. New Beginnings. This program supports young men and women, 18-21 years old, who have aged out of the foster care system. Youth in this program attend local college classes or vocational school, hold jobs, and are taught practical life skills, such as money management, driver’s education, and professional development. 3. Goshen Homes. In an effort to keep sibling groups together, a program to recruit, train, license and support foster families was started in 2016. Currently, 30 boys and girls have been placed with families. Monthly informational gatherings are held for men and women interested in becoming foster parents. For more information on Goshen Valley, and, specifically, details on becoming foster parents, call 770-3459535, or visit the Canton office at 505 Brown Industrial Parkway, Suite 200. www.goshenvalley.org.

Leave your mark on the Goshen story with a customized commemorative brick Anyone interested in supporting The Well and Goshen Valley can visit www.GoshenValley.org/ thewell to buy a brick, forever leaving a legacy as lives are changed for the foster youth at Goshen.

4x8 Red Brick $100

4x8 Golden Brick $250 Sponsored Content

8x8 Custom Brick $1000 TOWNELAKER | June 2019

@ the Library

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

ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock • 770-591-1491

June 4

Summer Reading Kick-Off: A Universe of Stories at 3 p.m. at Rose

Creek Public Library. Enjoy music, comedy, speed painting, and more with entertainer Chris Rumble, during the kick-off of the 2019 Summer Reading Program. Arrive early for the best seats. Don’t forget to pick up your summer reading activity logs before you leave. For all ages.

June 11

A Universe of Yarn at 11:30 a.m. Woodstock librarian Lisa Mosley celebrated Georgia STEM Day on May 3 by introducing visitors to the library’s STEAM technology, which is available for check-out.

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

June 4

Teen Disney Sing-Along at 4 p.m. Sing along with some of your favorite Disney tunes! Refreshments are provided. For teens in grades 6-12.

June 5

Summer Reading Kick-Off: A Universe of Stories at 10:30 a.m. at Woodstock Public Library. Enjoy music, comedy, speed painting, and more with entertainer Chris Rumble during the kick-off of the 2019 Summer Reading Program. Arrive early for the best seats. Don’t forget to pick up your Summer Reading activity logs before you leave. For all ages.

June 15

Star Wars Storytime at 11 a.m. Celebrate all things “Star Wars” by reading themed stories and making a craft. Costumes are encouraged.

June 17

Jeffini’s Reading Blast-Off Magic Show at 3 p.m. Enjoy a magic and puppet show

with Jeffini the Great, as he leads everyone on a space adventure! For all ages.

June 19

Virtual Reality: Blast Off to Space at 3 p.m. Try out virtual reality headsets and take a trip into space. For ages 7 and older.

June 27

Tech Thursday: Robots at 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Take a robot for a spin.

Explore with Sphero, Dash & Dot, Cubelets and Bee Bots. 60

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Celebrate National Yarn Bombing Day! Join the unveiling of a new yarn bombing project and do your part to help us cover the universe in string. For all ages.

June 13

Evening with an Astronomer at 6:30 p.m. Ever look up at the night sky and wonder what you’re seeing? Spend an evening with members of the Atlanta Astronomy Club and find out. For stargazers of all ages.

June 14

Sphero Space Camp at 11 a.m.

Explore the wonders of the universe with Sphero SPRK+ robots. For ages 6 and older.

June 17

Puppet Show: “Our Water Story”

at 11 a.m. Enjoy the production of “Our Water Story,” created by the Atlanta Center of Puppetry Arts for the North Metro North Georgia Water Planning District.

June 20

Fear Factor Food Challenge at 4

p.m. Prepare your appetite for the Fear Factor Food Challenge. Can you stomach it? For teens in grades 6-12.

404-303-3157 NEW MIDTOWN LOCATION NOW OPEN! We are a full-service gynecologic practice that offers routine gynecologic care and the most advanced minimally invasive surgical procedures to treat a wide range of gynecologic conditions. Our board-certified physician and skilled robotic surgeon, Dr. Rama Rao, provides a patient-centered approach to women’s health care in a compassionate and trusting environment. We offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for: • Painful bladder syndrome • Cervical dysplasia • Stress and urinary incontinence • Endometriosis and pelvic pain • Uterine bleeding and fibroids • Ovarian masses

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Midtown

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Towne Lake

900 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 302 Woodstock, GA 30189

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Around & About JUNE

1 benefit senior citizens and senior veterans. 9 a.m. registration, Volunteer Aging Council Poker Run is a fundraiser to

kickstands up at 10 a.m., last bike in at 1 p.m. Starts and ends at the Lotus Adult Day Center, 4595 Towne Lake Parkway. For details, email info@vac-cherokeega.org.

1,2

The Cherokee Chorale presents "Days of Wine and Roses" at 5 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. The chorale wraps up its 31st season with well-known and loved classics by Cole Porter and Johnny Mercer. Adults $15, students $5. At Reinhardt University’s Falany Performing Arts Center, 7300 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. www.cherokeechorale.org

FORE Charity, sponsored by the BridgeMill Sixes Service 7 Golf League, begins with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. at BridgeMill Athletic Club. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. More details available at www.bsslgolf.org.

annual Memorial Day Dinner Tribute: Sacrifices 8 Second Made, to honor fallen military members. First Baptist Church

Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock, in The Warehouse location on the campus. This potluck dinner is for veterans, active duty military and non-veterans. Call 678-494-2680. www.cherokeeveteranscommunity.org.

Assault on Garland Mountain 10k and half-marathon trail run at Garland Mountain Horse and Hike Trails in Waleska. Shirt and surprise swag item for all runners. Free quarter-mile race for children 10 and younger. Fundraiser for Friends of Garland Mountain Trails.

Teen Night at Cherokee County Aquatic Center for 13 ages 13-19. Drop off starts at 5:30 p.m. and pick up ends

at 10 p.m. Participants will play in the pool, have a pizza dinner, do crafts, play games and end the night with a movie! Ratio of kids to counselors is 10-1. Please send clothes to change into after the pool. Cost is $10 per person. Call 678-880-4760 for questions.

th of

JULY EVENTS

WOODSTOCK

July 4: The daylong July 4th Spectacular begins at 7:15 a.m. with the 22nd annual Woodstock Freedom Run (Registration details at www.woodstockfreedomrun.com). A parade begins at 10 a.m. at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road and travels down Main Street to end at Sam’s Club. A festival, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., begins at The Park at City Center after the parade, and includes food, live music, children’s games, inflatables, arts and crafts, Adam the Juggler and vendors until 3 p.m. Fireworks begin at dusk behind the Target shopping center at Highway 92 and I-575. 62

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Day celebration noon- 3 p.m. at Antioch 16 Father’s Christian Church with a car show, free food and family activities. The church is at 3595 Sugar Pike Road.

17 Fore! The Children Golf TournamentGolfing Service League of Cherokee County’s

at Woodmont Golf Club, 3105 Gaddis Road, Canton. Registration 8 a.m., with a 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. All proceeds will go to help children in need in Cherokee County. For sponsorship information, please email serviceleaguesponsors@gmail.com. To register, visit www.serviceleague.net.

History: Sardis Baptist Church 18 Salvaging Minutes, a Topics in Time History Program, will be

presented by Bob Lipscomb at 7 p.m. at the Rock Barn, 658 Marietta Highway, Canton 30114. The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

on the 21-23, 28-30 “Smoke Mountain” by Gaslight

Players, will be presented at the Canton Historic Theatre. www.cherokeetheatre.org.

and Country Concert at 7 p.m. with Todd 30 God Allen Herendeen at Bascomb United Methodist Church. The gospel and patriotic music event will honor veterans. A love offering will be taken.

The next Power in Unity Praise and Worship Service will be 6 p.m. at Ball Ground First Baptist Church, 445 Old Canton Road, Ball Ground 30107. This countywide multichurch service will feature a combined worship team and choir (“Voices of Unity”), as well as a guest speaker. A ministry of Concerned Clergy of Cherokee County (C4), these services have been held on the fifth Sunday of each quarter at various locations in Cherokee County since July 2017. For more information about this or future events, contact Pastor Mike Saunders at 404-483-2515 or email concernedclergyofcherokee@gmail.com.

ALLATOONA YACHT CLUB July 3: Fireworks Extravaganza begins at 9:30 p.m.

BALL GROUND

July 4: The city’s fireworks display will begin at 9:45 p.m. June 29. Prior to the fireworks, the Fly Betty Band will perform in City Park at 7 p.m.

CANTON

July 4: Riverstone Shopping Center, 6-10 p.m. Entertainment and fireworks display at Riverstone Shopping Center, with live music by The Rupert’s Orchestra. Fireworks begin at dusk. Stay tuned for parade details at www.cantonga.gov.

JULY on the Mountain” by Gaslight Players, 5-7 “Smoke will be presented at the Canton Historic Theatre. www.cherokeetheatre.org.

Night at Cherokee County Aquatic Center for 12 Teen ages 13-19. Drop off starts at 5:30 p.m. and pick up ends

The 8th annual Bend Your Knees 5K begins at 8 a.m. at Canton First Baptist Church, One Mission Point. Proceeds go to the Bend Your Knees nonprofit, started in 2012 after the passing of Collins Dixon. The foundation’s goal is to spread awareness of brain tumors and support families dealing with the illness. Register for the run at www.active.com or get more details at www.bendyourknees.org

DOWNTOWN WDSTK Summer Concert Series

7:30 p.m. Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater www.woodstockconcertseries.com

June 8: Better Than Ezra July 13: The BB King Blues Band featuring Michael Lee Aug. 10: Little River Band Sept. 14: The Molly Ringwalds (World’s Greatest ’80s Experience)

Movies in the Park

Held at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. No charge. Bring chairs, blankets and bug spray. georgiamoviesinthepark.com/woodstock

June 15: “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World”

(PG) 8:55 p.m.

July 20: “Captain Marvel” (PG-13) 8:55 p.m.

Elm Street Theater www.elmstreetarts.org

June 12-26: Elephant & Piggie's "We are in a Play!" Originates from the pages of children’s books written by Mo Willems. Saturday and Sunday shows at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday shows at 10 a.m. Rated G.

June 14: iThink Improv Troupe Show at 8 pm. Family-friendly fun. June 20: Brew HaHa at Reformation Brewery at 7 p.m. and

8 p.m. Belly laughs plus beer on tap every third Thursday.

June 28 - July 7: The Complete History of America (Abridged). A comedy that presents 600 years of history in 6,000 seconds. Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 p.m., Sunday shows at 2:30 p.m. Opening night reception immediately follows the June 28 show. Rated PG-13. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Maintenance Can Prevent Warm Weather Issues BY DEIDRE PARKER

Warmer weather can create challenges for our cars. Increased ambient heat places stress on our vehicles. As the summer months get hotter, vehicles will overheat, oil can become thinner, AC systems will fail, and tire pressure can increase, causing a blowout. Here are tips to help with the most common issues. Inspect your coolant for proper levels and condition. The added heat of summer will cause extra stress on components responsible for cooling your engine. Typically, seals and hoses will be the first to show signs of wear from weather. Inspecting your coolant is the best way to protect the cooling system of your car’s engine. Look at the color of the coolant. If it’s murky, dark, full of debris or smelly, it’s time for a coolant flush. Proper coolant care is critical to ensuring your engine components do their job correctly. Oil breaks down and becomes thin at high temperatures. If you’re experiencing overheating issues, an oil change can ensure the critical components inside your engine are getting the lubrication they need. Synthetic oil is more resistant to breaking down at higher temperatures than conventional oil and offers better performance for the components inside your engine. Low engine oil is doubly dangerous as it also will cause your engine to overheat, making the remaining oil even less effective because it’s thinning.

You may have used your AC system to defrost your windows in the winter, but the added summer workload you are placing on your AC system will cause weak components to fail. If your AC system is blowing cool, but not cold, you should have it inspected immediately. Your refrigerant could be leaking or there may be a more serious issue. The sooner these sorts of issues are identified, the less expensive the repair will be. Also, regularly change your cabin air filter to help your AC run even better and will help you breathe easier. With summer heat, gases expand. Your tires are filled with gases and when the ambient heat is combined with the heat they generate just from driving, it can cause a tire to fail in spectacular fashion. Make sure with the higher temperatures that summer brings, your tires are not over-inflated from inflating them during the winter. All in all, regular vehicle maintenance will help you identify issues early, before they cause secondary failures that are usually more expensive and time consuming.

Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.

Commit to the Community for Networking Success BY ASHLEY VELEZ

For small business owners, it’s never been more important to interact face-to-face with neighbors and residents living in the immediate community. With the continued rise in online business transactions, small business owners can further improve their local presence by being an active participant where they live, work and play. How can business owners do this? Through a BE PSA mentality: Be a resource, Edify others, Participate, Show up, and Add value. (Yes, I made this up − but hey, these are important points and the mnemonic device might just stick!)

Be a resource. You know people who provide goods and services. You’ll meet people through networking, and you’ll learn about their needs. Be the conduit between these and make introductions. Edify others. Great leaders are known for finding opportunities to build others up. When you edify people in your community, you build the community, one person at a time. Participate. Volunteer in one or a few of your local organizations. Go a little outside your comfort zone, and try something you may not have chosen initially for yourself. Add value. Write down three of your strengths (e.g., large network, social media numbers, online skills) and use them to add value to conversations. By keeping these in mind, you can confidently focus your energy on adding this value to others. 64

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Show up. No matter where you are or what you’re doing, make the commitment to be truly present. Others will feed off your participation and enthusiasm. In Cherokee County, there are plenty of opportunities to use the BE PSA mindset in the community. IN WDSTK and Young Professionals IN WDSTK provide small business owners a tremendous opportunity for networking. IN WDSTK’s goal is to connect and energize businesses looking for growth and opportunity through a variety of ongoing learning and networking events. Young Professionals IN WDSTK, a program operating under its’ parent organization, is aimed at helping professionals develop their careers, build relationships, donate time through philanthropic projects and contribute to the overall economic development in our community. The Circuit, Cherokee County’s co-working space that operates under Fresh Start Cherokee, offers plenty of educational events and support for startups, entrepreneurs and small businesses. Determine which events work best with your schedule, and attend regularly. This discipline will help you to make a lasting impression on potential clients, customers and peers.

Ashley Velez is the social media director for YPOW and is a digital marketing expert and proud resident of Woodstock, where she lives with her husband Oscar and their two sons. http://atlantaseo.pro.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

EVERYDAY Identifying people in need in our community.

Amy and Jeff McCall have lived in and served our community for more than 20 years. Their lives are full, consumed with their family, faith and work. The couple runs a storage facility, and Jeff is a self-employed contractor and landscaper. They have been married happily for 23 years and have two boys. Amy and Jeff center their lives around their faith and living a healthy lifestyle. “We have always been active, from basketball to obstacle races and ninja warrior competitions. Amy competed in American Ninja Warrior in 2017 and was a part-time instructor at a local ninja warrior-style gym until October of 2018,” Jeff said. That is when Amy began experiencing severe, unexplainable insomnia. After days of no sleep, anxiety and fatigue began. “We tried many things on our own that didn’t work,” Jeff said. They turned to doctors, who prescribed nine different drugs over a three-week period. Amy is hypersensitive to medications. Each medication presented extreme side effects – even in the smallest doses. Days led to very long weeks as Amy’s violent reactions to medications continued with no relief: She was sick to her stomach, dizzy or fatigued. None alleviated her problems or provided her sleep and relief from the anxiety. No one could explain why this suddenly began. Some days, she is so weak that she barely can walk. Her body is worn out. “Sleep deprivation is one of the worst things anyone can experience. It makes the mind and body experience strange 66

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

The Muddy Buddy is one of the competitive obstacle course races Jeff and Amy enjoy.

things,” Jeff said. “Amy’s condition has gotten so bad that she typically can’t be left alone. Her parents help, but I am her primary caregiver.” He’s had to turn down large projects in favor of smaller projects. As a result, they've had very little income. Bills are piling up, and the stress is beginning to take its toll on Jeff and their boys. After a tireless and desperate search for answers, they discovered an inpatient treatment facility in Houston that has a good reputation for treating difficult cases like Amy’s. On April 18, Amy and Jeff left for Houston, leaving her parents behind to care for their sons. The facility and treatments are expensive, and more than they can afford, but Jeff is determined to get

his wife and his life back. Jeff must continue paying his normal bills in addition to a $48,000 debt he incurred so Amy could get the treatment she needs. “I finally feel like we are making progress. She still has good and bad days here, but we are seeing improvement, and a glimpse of the Amy we knew before this nightmare began. Thank you for the incredible support and prayers; it has been beyond humbling,” Jeff said. Everyday Angels is asking for your prayers for the McCall family, as well as your support. We would love to relieve Jeff of some of the unexpected financial burdens they have endured as they work to return to normalcy.

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

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TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill

Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 cancunmexicangrill.net

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

China Fun

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

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

El Ranchero

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

Family Tradition

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

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

Izumi Asian Bistro

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

JD’s Bar-B-Que

Barbeque 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730 jdsbbq.com

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Jersey’s Sports Bar

American 6426 Bells Ferry Road, #160 770-790-5740 jerseysgrille.com

Johnny’s Pizza Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 johnnyspizza.com

Kani House

Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 kanihouse.com

Keegan's Irish Pub

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

La Parrilla

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

LongHorn

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

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

Mellow Mushroom

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

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

Panera Bread

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

Peking & Tokyo

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

Song’s Garden

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

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

The Place

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

Tuscany

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

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

WOW Pho & Grill

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

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Apply Now for Fall Semester

Priority Application Deadline is July 12

CTC offers Certificates, Diplomas and Associate Degrees in these areas:

Arts & Sciences Business & Technical Studies Health Sciences

Many students qualify for financial aid. 8 Campus Locations

ChattahoocheeTech.edu 770-528-4545 A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Marriage Moments

Don’t Grow Tired of Showing Love BY BILL RATLIFF

Marriage is a relationship created by God to be an indefatigable bond of love on this earth. In other words, it is a union between two people who never grow tired of demonstrating their love for each other. June is traditionally a month for weddings. Each time you attend one, and listen to the vows, it is an opportunity to reflect on your relationship with your spouse. I found these anonymous marital vows to be what I consider an accurate reflection of God’s plan for this bond of love. • I vow to offer forgiveness each and every day. • I vow never to believe the grass is greener somewhere else. • I vow to let you be who you want to be, not who I want you to be. • I vow to be a light in your dark times. • I vow to let adversity strengthen us. • I vow to be courageously honest, even when the truth is hard. • I vow to place no judgement on your dreams, desires and aspirations. • I vow to face new decisions as a team. • I vow to willingly recommit myself to you daily.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

God intended marriage to be a loving precursor to our relationship with him in heaven. Hosea 2:19-20 reflects this truth: “I will betroth you to me forever. Yes I will betroth you to me in righteousness and in justice, in loving kindness and in compassion. I will even betroth you to me in faithfulness: and you will know me.” The next time you attend a wedding ceremony, remember that God wants marriage to be all about loving your spouse and about loving him.

Date Your Mate I received this date idea from a good friend of mine. Find a concert venue to attend with your mate. Even if you don’t personally enjoy crowds, step out, anyway. Consider the cheap seats on the lawn. Regardless of whether the weather or crowds cooperate, make a point to carve out a little space to snuggle, and enjoy the moment.

Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons

Reel Seafood

Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com

Century House Tavern

Ipps Pastaria & Bar

Rootstock and Vine

Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com

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

J Christopher’s

Salt Factory Pub

Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com

Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com

Fajita Valley Mexican 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-2570 fajitavalley.com

Fire Stone Wood-fired Pizza & Grill 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com

Freight Kitchen & Tap

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

J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com

Mad Life Studios

Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 saltfactorypub.com/woodstock

Semper Fi Bar and Grille American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 semperfibarandgrille.com

Tea Leaves & Thyme English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com

Partners II Pizza

Truck & Tap

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

Habanero’s Taqueria

Pure Taqueria

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

Southern 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com

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

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

Ice Martini & Sushi Bar

American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com

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

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

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

Elm Street

My Daughter: A Theater Kid BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW

I have two children, and my daughter has recently taken a liking to being onstage. She is 6, and her wanting to be involved in theater is an entirely new experience for me. I didn’t really develop my passion for theater until I was in high school, so I wouldn’t have considered myself a theater kid. I’ve been a theater director and teacher for almost 17 years, and I know there are significant benefits to being involved in the performing arts. Theater influences the development of physical, emotional and social skills, by boosting self-confidence, cooperation, communication, creative thinking and memory. I tell parents all the time that I wish there had been some place like Elm Street when I was growing up, and how great it is for their children to be involved in a theatrical arts environment. Being a theater parent is an out-of-body experience for me. For years I have encouraged other students to pursue performing to overcome their fears of public speaking, to improve their social skills, or create stories—but, never have I thought of impressing these skills on my children. I always had an open mind to let my daughter play soccer if she wanted. To witness her interest and personally see her growth where I work is an enriching adventure. She loves to read books and create stories—both of which she can do at Elm Street. “Elephant & Piggie’s: We Are in a Play!” will be performed in June on our stage, and I have to say, I am extremely excited about this show. I’ve been reading these hilarious Mo Willems books with my daughter for years now, and seeing these stories come to life on stage, with catchy music and colorful characters, has received high anticipation from my children. This is a show we will not miss. I wasn’t surprised when my daughter wanted to see shows at Elm Street (like “Fancy Nancy” and “Shrek Jr.”), but I was surprised when I learned she wanted to perform on stage. She took her first summer drama camp last year and loved every minute of it. From learning songs and dances, to creating costumes and crafts, and performing in a fun story in one week—she decided she wanted to do it again. This summer is going to be fun and beneficial for my daughter, but also for me. I can’t wait to see her grow in a creative and engaging environment.

UPCOMING AT ELM STREET The LEE BOYS

SACRED STEEL | MIAMI

House of Waters World | Senegal

THE LEE BOYS HOUSE OF WATERS JUN 22nd | 7:30PM JUL 27th | 7:30PM LANTERN SERIES PRESENTING PARTNER:

GOLD PARTNERS:

JUNE 12th-26th PRESENTING PARTNER:

Registration is OPEN for

Siobhan Brumbelow is on staff at Elm Street. She holds a BA in Theatre from Brenau University and toured with Missoula Children’s Theatre.

SUMMER CAMPS ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Camping on Allatoona Lake BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS

June is National Camping Month, and what a great time to enjoy one of the campgrounds operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Allatoona Lake. The corps manages seven convenient and affordable campgrounds in Cherokee and Bartow counties. In fact, the corps is the leading provider of outdoor recreation in the U.S., and has campgrounds across the country that offer affordable, fun and scenic ways to spend a vacation.

Campgrounds

The corps operates seven campgrounds on Allatoona: Sweetwater, Victoria and Payne campgrounds in Cherokee County, and McKinney, Old Highway 41 No. 3, McKaskey and Upper Stamp Creek campgrounds in Bartow County. Campsite pricing is based on location and amenities, with standard sites ranging from $28 to $32 per night. There are different prices for waterfront and interior campsites, and sites with 30amp and 50-amp electrical and water hookups. Starting in the 2019 recreation season, the corps has gone cashless in

its recreation areas; please make note of this when visiting corps campgrounds and day use areas this year.

Need-to-Know

• Maximum of three pets are permitted per campsite. • Maximum of eight people per campsite. • Maximum of three vehicles per campsite. • Camping limit is 14 consecutive days or 14 nonconsecutive days in any 30-day period at all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated campgrounds on the Allatoona Lake Project. • Off-road vehicles, golf carts and ATVs are not permitted. • Entrance gate is locked from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. • Don't move firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it onsite. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Reservations

One of the campsites at Victoria Campground. 74

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

An affo to vaca

Campsite reservations can be made by calling 1-877-444-6777 or by going through Recreation.gov, which links to various recreational sites around the nation. Recreation.gov has a new website for the 2019 season, and, after early technical

Tips from a Corps Camper BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH

My family and I have been enjoying the corps campgrounds around Allatoona Lake for more than a decade. We aren’t the hike out in the woods until you find a clearing and pitch a tent kind of family. Admittedly we bring as many comforts along as possible. It is still a lot of outdoor fun and a great time for making memories. In fact I have filled an entire photo album that is just dedicated to our camping adventures! It helps being a short drive from home and stores because inevitably we have forgotten something important. Over the years I have discovered a few vital things that make our camping experience the best it can be.

ordable, fun way ation close to home. problems, seems to have the site functioning properly. There also is a convenient app for phones that is similar to the website. Allatoona Lake’s booking window is now one day; therefore, reservations can be made up to one day before you want to go camping on Allatoona Lake.

Interagency Passes

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sells and issues most of the federal America the Beautiful Passes from the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office. Visitors who hold one of these passes receive free admittance in our corps-managed day use areas and ramps. America the Beautiful Senior and Access Pass holders also will receive 50% off on camping. All other passes will continue to be charged full price for camping. June is the busiest recreation month on Allatoona Lake. We hope you have a safe and relaxing time. Please remember to wear your life jackets! “Life jackets worn, nobody mourns.” Visit PleaseWearIt.com. For more camping information, call 678-721-6700. Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Lake Allatoona over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.

1. Water shoes. The lake bottom is mucky and once you step on it with bare feet you will surely remember to pick up some water shoes for your next trip. 2. Water jugs. Be sure to bring jugs of water

from home or store bought, the water at the corps campgrounds is drinkable but has a taste to it that can affect cooking and your morning coffee.

3. Box fans. We discovered these

are handy for not only keeping cool on humid summer days but they are also helpful with keeping bugs away. We always bring two.

4. AV Adpater. I know you think you won’t be watching TV while you are camping, but on a rainy day or during football season this is a must for us. We stream Netflix, and the ESPN app from our phone, this little device connects the phone to your TV. Its my favorite device for camping August through October. 5. Outdoor Patio Mat.

This really helps keep your camper clean. The corps campsites all have gravel and this mat makes it easy to walk around in bare feet and cuts down on tracking gravel and dirt into the camper. Just hose it off at the end of your trip.

Michelle McCulloch is the Art Director for Aroundabout Local Media. She and her family have been camping since moving to Georgia in 2003. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

d e t a pd

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Taste of WDSTK Taste. Repeat. Conquer.

Volunteers, from left, Kelli Miller, Patty Ponder and Ashley Velez, sell tickets for the food tastings. Top, overhead shot taken by Bronson Kurtz.

Lauren Furber with her daughter, Navy, and son, Cruz. 78

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The Taste of Woodstock started more than 12 years ago in the Woodstock High School cafeteria as a fundraiser for the school’s band. Five years ago, the school saw an opportunity to partner with the city of Woodstock, and introduce the event to a broader audience. This year’s event, held on the Elm Street Event Green, highlighted 23 of Woodstock’s restaurants and food trucks. Entertainment was provided by the award-winning Woodstock High School Jazz Band, and several local up-and-coming musicians. According to Brian Stockton, director of the city’s economic and downtown development, there were about 3,000 attendees with around 32,000 tickets sold. After dividing proceeds with the restaurants, based on the number of tickets collected, it is estimated the event generated about $8,000 for the Woodstock band. The money will be used for new band uniforms, which cost an average of $350 per uniform, according to Robert Mitchell, the immediate past president and Taste of Woodstock chair for the Woodstock Wolverine band boosters. There are 175 marching band members. “This comes at a critical time, as we are working hard to raise funds for new band uniforms in order to continue to compete at the high level that Woodstock is known for, usually winning our class and often in the running for Grand Champion at competitions,” Mitchell said. “We are so grateful for the partnership we have with the Woodstock Economic Development Authority, and we look forward to continuing to grow the event for our program and the community.” Donations for the Woodstock High School Band can be made at www.thebandatwhs.com.

Kaylee and Justin Balmes with their daughter, Ella Grace.

Norma Jean and Larry Lindsey.

Spencer Nix raises a toast to the release of WDSTK Pale Ale, a new, draft-only beer found exclusively at participating restaurants in downtown Woodstock.

Families and friends gathered on the Elm Street Event Green to enjoy this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taste of WDSTK.

Richard and Donna Reyes.

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE MCCULLOCH AND JACKIE LOUDIN

Karen Silverman and Dustin Petitti of Reel Seafood.

The downtown Woodstock Mobile Visitors Center.

Joyce and Floyd Gibbons.

Local musician Levi Ransom. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Above, Drew Kerrigan, Bryant Madden, Jaxon Etter and Tate Frames. Right, front row, from left: Campbell Carter, Riley Bowen, Ansley Cheshire. Back row, from left: Max Marchetti, Josh Raab and Ben Koch.

Etowah High School Maggie Messerly and Bryant Madden.

Alex Forde.

Above, showing off college choices. Right, Jenna Doran and Alex Carroll. 80

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

April 20 The Egyption Ballroom, Fox Theatre

Prom-goers pose before heading off to the Fox Theatre.

Hannah Peace and Tristan Shirley.

Seniors from the baseball team.

Seniors enjoy their last prom. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Annabelle Knapp, Jessie Taylor and Addie Meek.

Woodstock High School

Juniors Colby Cox, Avery Stiber, Michael Burke, Emma Frazer, Jessica Watson, Travis Bailey.

Hayden Burns and MacKenzie Englert.

Charley Snyder and Grace Pierce.

Above, Woodstock students are ready for prom. Top right, Junior Madi Chendemi. 82

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

April 27 The Cellar at 200 Peachtree

We All Play a Role in Supporting Students BY BARBARA P. JACOBY

For our school district, the death of a student is devastating: Our teachers and staff have lost a child they care deeply about, and our students have lost a friend. When the death is due to suicide, the loss comes along with questions, concerns and fears – from adults and children. When a child passes away, parents whose children attend the school receive a letter from the principal to let them know about the loss, offer guidance in talking with their child about it, and remind them that school counselors always are available for their child. We know the letter doesn’t answer every question a parent may have. We also know it doesn’t answer every question someone who hears about the death might post on social media. And we’re OK with that. The reason: We respect the privacy of the parents who lost their child, and we follow the advice of our school counselors and psychologists to serve best the child’s classmates. Suicide is an extremely complex issue, and often families never find a defining reason. Rumors of bullying, regardless of whether there is evidence or confirmation from friends or family, inevitably appear on social media. Spreading such rumors not only doesn’t help, it causes the child’s family and friends significant pain. We know this, because they tell us. They ask us for help to stop the rumors and to stop others from capitalizing on the family’s grief to fuel their own agenda. As the reasons behind such a loss are complex, we’re increasing training for our staff to help them better understand the underlying issues behind this alarming national trend, and what can be done to help. We’ve developed a new system in our schools to recognize better the signs of a student in crisis, and take appropriate steps to help, including the development of intervention plans for those students, in cooperation with their families. Our Office of School Operations, which has been coordinating this training, also has developed a social and emotional learning committee to further educate and train teachers and staff, and develop best practices to be implemented at all schools. Social and emotional learning focuses on helping students understand and better manage their emotions and interactions with others. If you’re a parent, we need your help. We’ve created a page on our website (http://bit.ly/ccsdresources) to equip you with basic resources. Our SafeSchools Alert system (click the orange “Report Tips” button on www.cherokeek12.net), which allows anonymous reporting of any safety concern — including the concern that a child may harm himself or herself — is not just for our students to use; it’s for you, too. Report bullying. Report concerns about a child who appears to be in crisis. Your report may be the one that saves a student’s life.

are you all IN? IN WDSTK is an INvestor based 501(c)6 which exists to bring together local residents and businesses from every community who are INvesting, INvolved and INcluded IN Woodstock’s growth and opportunity. We host over 85 networking, business development and community engagement opportunities annually. Business INvestments start as low as $100 per year. If you are ready to be all IN, join us today: inwdstk.org/invest or by calling 770-592-6056

be our guest. June 2019 Events YPOW AM - networking and local leaders Thursdays at 7 AM // Copper Coin Coffee Morning INfluence Friday June 28 at 8 AM // Chambers Register as a guest at inwdstk.org/events

Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

YOUR SCHOOL NEWS

Congratulations Coach Robinson! Etowah High School’s head varsity baseball coach, Greg Robinson, celebrated his 400th career win while on the road in Lowndes County, during the first round of the state playoffs.

A Dream Come True Etowah High School sophomore Anderson Sisk recently was surprised at a pep rally − just for him − to celebrate his passion for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). After the pep rally, he and his family headed to St. Louis, WWE headquarters, for a show, to meet wrestlers and get a behind-the-scenes tour. Etowah coaches Victoria Carter and Lindsay Alexander nominated Sisk for this experience through Dream on 3, an organization that helps special students accomplish their sports dreams. Etowah students, known as the Junior Dream Team, helped by hosting fundraisers, such as the Mr. EHS Pageant, a student-teacher dodgeball game, T-shirt sales, and a Bruster’s fundraiser night to help raise funds for Sisk’s trip. Dream on 3 is a “sports nonprofit organization with a mission to make dreams come true for children with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities or life-altering conditions by creating experiences of joy and magic through the world of sports.” www.dreamon3.org

Senior Wins Prestigious Scholarship

Kieran Black

Kieran Black of Etowah High School is one of only 2,500 students in the nation — of the 1.6 million students who took the 2017 PSAT exam — to be awarded the $2,500 scholarship by the National Merit Scholarship Corp. Black, who plans to study computer science at Georgia Tech, was selected from more than 15,000 finalists who made it through the initial selection process for the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Anderson Sisk receives a royal send-off as he heads to St. Louis for a behind-the-scenes tour of WWE.

Graduating Seniors Make Military Commitments We are proud of the young men and women who have made military commitments following high school graduation. Congratulations and thank you for your service!

Etowah High School Kolbi Velez, Air Force Jeremiah Caspersen, Army Jacob Heuton, Army Cherrelle Birden, Army National Guard Sean Mullaney, Army National Guard Kristopher Van Sickle, Coast Guard Davion Roca, Marines Alina Singer, Marines Devon Williams, Marines Justin Bailey, Navy Alexander Eden, Navy

Woodstock High School

Seniors who committed to enlist in the military were honored between games at the Varsity Brands Senior Classic. 84 TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Alex Bacon, Air Force Irene Arangon, Army Michelle Saucedo, Army Aleksander Pokropski, Marines Andrea Zapata, National Guard Joshua Brooks, Navy Nicolas Neely, Navy

Easter at the White House Maddie and Inman Ragsdale, twins and fourth-grade students at Bascomb Elementary, attended the 2019 White House Easter Egg Roll.

Pep Rally Motivates Students During Milestone Testing Etowah High School Principal Robert Horn, the school’s marching band drumline, cheerleaders and students visited elementary schools in the Etowah innovation zone for an Operation Milestones academic pep rally. The rally, pictured here at Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy, gave students encouragement and tips before beginning their annual Milestones assessments. “Through music, dance, cheer and inspirational speeches, Clark Creek students left the pep rally feeling excited and ready to take on their tests,” Clark Creek Principal Joey Moss said.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Where Will Your Retirement Money Come From?

Rob's Rescues

Securities offered through registered representatives of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note:- Investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor a recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

What do people think about coyotes which isn't true?

continued from page 32

Citations. 1 - waddell.com/explore-insights/market-news-and-guidance/planning/9-facts-about-socialsecurity [2018] 2 - cbpp.org/research/social-security/policy-basics-top-ten-facts-about-social-security [8/14/18] 3 - cnbc.com/2018/07/30/roth-vs-traditional-iras-how-to-decide-where-to-put-your-money. html [7/30/18] 4 - fool.com/retirement/2018/11/21/the-most-important-401k-rules-for-maximizing-your. aspx [11/21/18] 5 - investopedia.com/terms/d/definedbenefitpensionplan.asp [1/26/18] 6 - investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/101515/planning-retiring-later-think-again. asp [10/25/18]

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continued from page 40

People think that they are out to kill our pets and eat other animals. Coyotes killing pets is unusual, and is usually a learned behavior that arises when people feed their pets outside, and leave pet food out.

How long do coyotes live?

A coyote that lives to 12 is probably pretty old. The biggest danger they face is being hit by cars.

Are coyotes dangerous and would I ever need to be worried if I came across one?

They are wild animals, so obviously treat them with caution and behave properly around them. Make noise so it knows you are there and don't surprise it. Animals that are sick, injured or protecting pups may behave differently. Always treat them with respect and caution. We have had no reports to our website of anyone being attacked by a coyote.

Towne Lake Area Homes Sold in April

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

Monochromatic Print:

HM Becky Sapp "Harvest by Moonlight"

1st Eillene Kirk "Fun at the Fair"

2nd Michael Brubaker "Feathery V"

3rd Russ Miller "Shocking"

Digital Projection:

1st Donald Newton "Peach Sunrise Brasstown" 88

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2nd Becky Sapp "Hello, Sunshine"

3rd Russ Miller "Light Show"

Color Print:

1st Percy Clapp "Snow White"

2nd Russ Miller "Storm at Sea"

3rd Mark Mozley "Sunrise Picture"

HM Rick Sapp "Spotlight on the Orchid"

HM Bill Bradford "Eyjaaurora"

HM Eillene Kirk "Midway Lights"

HM Austin Mozley "Galaxy Lights" TOWNELAKER | June 2019

REFERENCE

TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org. Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen, 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org. Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com. Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org. Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.

Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home. The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.

SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.

Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.

Male Veteran Support Group

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

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/ spotlight/woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.

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

Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.

CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS

AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. 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. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.

POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS

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

Cherokee 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 678-882-0915. 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. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | June 2019

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

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

AME

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

BAPTIST

Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

CHURCH OF GOD

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

EPISCOPAL

Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com

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

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

LUTHERAN

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

ORTHODOX

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

PRESBYTERIAN

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

Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org

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

Saint Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org

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

JEWISH

Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net

ROMAN CATHOLIC

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

UNITED METHODIST Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247 www.ballgroundumc.org

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

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

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock

678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

June 2019

ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS

Animal Atlanta 770-591-0007 www.animalatlanta.com

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

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

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

CHIROPRACTIC

ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com

Jones Family Law 770-479-1050 www.jonesfamilylawfirm.com

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

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

Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 770-926-3898

BEAUTY SALON & SPA Main Street Nail Studio 770-928-2662

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

BUSINESS SUPPORT INWDSTK inwdstk.org/events

PTS Networking 678-222-0555

Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 34 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.drwilliamsorthodontics.com Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com DRY CLEANING Designer Cleaners 770-592-2990

Joint Chiropractic, The 678-214-4449 www.thejoint.com

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

Answer Key 678-761-6364 www.answer-key.org

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

Chattahoochee Technical College 770-528-4545 www.chattahoocheetech.edu

Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830 www.givingcareathome.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING

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

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

DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric) Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com

FITNESS 27

Dentistry for Woodstock Cover, 1, 48, 49 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

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

Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com

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

Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.clubpilates.com/woodstock R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Your CBD Store 770-627-3512 www.cbdrx4u.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277

Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock

CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661

ClearView Softwash & Pressure Washing 35 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com

Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com

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

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

Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com

J. King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.jkingimages.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Atlanta Gynecologic Oncology 5 Atlanta, Marietta: Dr. Feuer 404-459-1900 Canton, TowneLake: Dr. Glasgow 770-721-9400 www.atlantagynonc.com Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists Woodstock: 770-852-7740 Canton: 678-493-2527 www.cherokeelungandsleep.com

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta www.choa.org/sportsmed

GYN Surgical Specialists 404-303-3157 www.gynsurgicalspecialists.com

North Georgia Clinical Reasearch 678-494-5735 www.NGClinicalResearch.com

Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045 Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com

Northside Cherokee Pediatrics 678-388-5485 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com

Southern Air Pros 770-713-0168 www.southernairpros.com

Northside Cherokee Surgical Assoc. 770-924-9656 www.ncsurgicalassociates.com

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

Northside Hospital Cherokee 770-517-6636 www.Northside.com/orthopedic

Townlake Handyman Service 770-966-2945

INSURANCE State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net

Northside Vascular Surgery 770-292-3490 www.nvs-ga.com Perimeter North Medical Associates 770-395-1130 www.pnfm.com

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

Plastic Surgery Center of the South 32 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net

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

Primary Care Plus, PC 678-574-3000

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

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES

PHOTOGRAPHY Brooke Vande Zande 86 920-602-0923 www.brookevandezandephotography.com Shot from the Heart Photography 85 www.shotfromtheheartphotography.com

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

Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 29 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net Soliel Laurel Canyon 678-500-8099 www.soliellaurelcanyon.com

Terrell Real Estate/ Remax 770-331-4403 www.toddterrell.com

Premier Group, The — Keller Williams 678-494-0102 www.tpgsells.com

RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT CYFA www.cyfa.org

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

Etowah Football Youth Camp www.etowaheaglesfootball.com

Suntex Boat Club 770-331-2040 www.suntexboatclub.com

RESTAURANTS/FOOD Copper Coin Coffee 470-308-6914 www.coppercoinwoodstock.com Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910

RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com

Southern Sky Home Outlet 678-842-8411

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

SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES 17

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

Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com

Lodge at BridgeMill, The Inside front 833-358-4220 www.thelodgeatbridgemill.com Oaks at Towne Lake 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com

TAXI Aracely's Taxi 678-883-4479

TOWNELAKER | June 2019

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

Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.

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

TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400

TOWNELAKER | June 2019