TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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22 18
Contents On the Cover
8 June 2022
Features
8 Celebrating Juneteenth
Details about this year’s Juneteenth event and the successes of county resident Charles McGhee’s family.
18 Honoring Our Fathers
Meet the Townsends, a family with three generations of firefighters. On Page 34, Rev. Joseph Cousin honors his father.
22 Farm Fresh Recipes
Vibrant farmers market-inspired recipes submitted by Woodstock vendors and Cherokee County Farm Bureau.
LGE Community Credit Union
The team at the new Towne Lake office is ready to help current and prospective members. On cover, seated, from left: Vivienne Graham and Matthew Perrault. Standing, from left: Marcus Porch and Michelle Dollar.
Pages 32 & 33
Cover photo by LaRuche Photo
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
In Every Issue 4 10 20 24 44 52 54 56 58 62
Around Towne Local News Celebrations Everyday Angels Rob’s Rescues Library Events School News Recent Home Sales Community Calendar Directory of Advertisers
Contributors 49 Charlice Byrd
42 Michael Caldwell
38 Cherokee Women’s
Health Specialists
34 Rev. Joseph Cousin 61 Barbara Jacoby
12 Harry Johnston 40 Ann Litrel
21 Susannah MacKay 44 Rob Macmillan
8 Margaret Miller
35 North Georgia Audiology
30 Northside Hospital 26 Deidre Parker 52 John Rodgers
28, 36 Susan Schulz 46 Mary Tucker
50 The Wanderer
57 Libby Williams 48 Jason Wilson
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
W
hat is the perfect age to begin considering a move to a retirement community? The answer: there is no perfect age. However, there is perfect timing, which is the result of careful planning in advance.
Many people wait too late to make a plan for moving into a new community. Health needs or financial status may change; your place of choice may or may not have availability when you reach your point of need. At St. George Village, we know how important it is to prepare for the retirement future that you envision. We take the guesswork out of the planning process and guide you so that you’ll be ready to move into the perfect home at the perfect time. Get started today! Find out how you can time your move to St. George Village perfectly. Call our sales counselor Dawn Zawoysky at 678-987-0409 for information, or visit us online at stgeorgevillage.org, and on Facebook. *St. George Village is Roswell’s only LifePlan community offering independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing neighborhoods. 11350 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA 30075 | 678-987-0410 | stgeorgevillage.org TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Around Towne Letter From the Editor
Each month, we find so much to celebrate in our community that sometimes it’s hard to fit it all in. I can’t imagine living — or working — anywhere else! Cherokee County is the perfect location, fulfilling the slogan, Where Metro Meets the Mountains. We are close enough for a drive to the Gulf Coast and even closer to the Blue Ridge mountains. In the spirit of celebration, we have lots to share with you this month, starting with our ALM team. We are celebrating 26 years of bringing readers uplifting, hyperlocal content. It all began in June 1996 when the founders launched that first issue, making us the longest running community magazine in Cherokee County. That’s an honor and privilege we don’t take lightly. As we continue in the celebratory mode, we are thankful for one of our most cherished writers, Margaret Miller, who brings us up to date on Juneteenth traditions (Page 8). Our comprehensive list of parks in the county will guide you as you celebrate the beginning of summer with family and friends (Pages 14-16.) A few years ago, our family celebrated our son Drew’s graduation from the Georgia Fire Academy. He’s currently a firefighter in Catoosa County and loves what he does. On his off days, he uses his education degree to tutor students or fill in as a substitute teacher. This Mama couldn’t be more proud of her son! There’s another family who recently celebrated a similar graduation in Cherokee County, one that boasts three generations of firefighters (Pages 18-19). Maybe one day I’ll have grandchildren who’ll continue the tradition in the Hannigan family? Consider that a prayer request. There’s always something in Woodstock to celebrate. At a recent IN WDSTK gathering, Content Editor Jessica Forrester learned that a goal of the city’s sustainability efforts is to have a household hazardous waste disposal (HWD) drop-off event in the next few months, in addition to a potential permanent HWD center for city residents. Keep an eye out for more details! And — get ready for some entertaining evenings downtown — family fun nights are planned for the third Thursdays of June and July. For details, turn to Page 60.
Candi Hannigan, executive editor of Aroundabout Local Media, with her son Drew at his August 2019 graduation from the Georgia Fire Academy.
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Kudos
Angela Speir Phelps is the new chief operating
officer (COO) of MUST Ministries. She has served in executive leadership for eight years. Under her leadership, the organization has completed a successful $23 million capital campaign to build a new consolidated campus and MUST Hope House, a new homeless shelter. As COO, she leads the programs and services, serving an estimated 60,000 clients in need annually.
Congratulations to brothers Scott and Rick Steiner, former wrestlers who recently were inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Rick and Scott joined the all-time elite stars of their profession with induction to the Hall of Fame, fittingly going in together as a capper to their illustrious careers in the wrestling ring. Rick is a member of the Cherokee County School District Board of Education.
What’s New
Delta Community Credit Union has opened
a Woodstock branch at 280 Molly Lane, in a former Wells Fargo location. 800-544-3328. www.deltacommunitycu.com.
What’s Changed
After 33 years of practicing in Atlanta, attorney Marc Replogle has moved his office, The Replogle Firm, PC, to Woodstock. Marc’s areas of practice include corporate law, wills and probate, and personal injury. The new address is 1190 Buckhead Crossing, Suite C, and the new phone number is 770-884-4222. www.thereploglefirm.com.
Midwife Susan Griggs is retiring from Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists after 15 years. She has built the midwifery program to include a team of midwives who care for women at both Canton and Woodstock locations and Northside Hospital Cherokee. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.
Dr. Haiden Nunn has left North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center. Dr. Hannah Jones has joined the staff. The Woodstock office is at 280 Heritage Walk, Suite 300. www.yourhearinglink.com.
WE’RE COUNTING THE VOTE S! READERS’
CHOICE 2022
Stay tuned! Winners will be announced in the July issues!
Guiding you through your real estate experience with
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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www.townelaker.com TOWNELAKER | June 2022
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a community magazine with 16,400 free copies distributed monthly. Approximately 15,800 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 600 are placed in racks in the community. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the first and advertising deadline is the fifth of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to: TowneLaker, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620, Woodstock GA 30189. 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 2022. Volume 27, Issue 1
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Holidays Combine! Celebrating Juneteenth and Father’s Day BY MARGARET MILLER
For the second consecutive year, there will be a Juneteenth celebration in Cherokee County. Last year, the Cherokee Democrats sponsored the event. This year, the Cherokee County chapter of the NAACP will host a celebration, which commemorates the freeing of slaves in Texas, the last state in the Confederacy to free slaves. It was on June 19, 1865, that the enslaved there learned their emancipation was official. Since then, various places in our country have celebrated this event. On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making June 19 a federal holiday. The local Juneteenth celebration on June 18, 1-5 p.m. at The Mill on Etowah, will feature artists, vendors, food and games, and speakers. This year, Juneteenth will be observed on June 18 since June 19 is Father’s Day. Speaking of fathers, Canton resident and attorney Charles McGhee is proud of the successes of his daughters, Ebony and Bronze. Ebony McGhee Steele is a multitalented beauty/entrepreneur who seems to be following in the footsteps of her paternal grandmother, Flora McGhee. Flora was an Alabama beauty who established a successful charm and modeling school in Birmingham in 1958. Almost 64 years later, her granddaughter, Ebony, is making her mark in the beauty and entertainment fields. The former full-time and now sometimes resident of Canton is wellknown in the entertainment circle. For years, Ebony was a co-host on the national syndicated radio show, “Rickey 8
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Charles McGhee with daughters, Ebony, left, and Bronze.
Smiley Morning Show,” and the popular television show, “Dish Nation.” The busy entrepreneur has done voice-overs for a number of businesses, including Verizon, Walmart and Delta Air Lines. Ebony was named one of Radio Facts Top 30 Women in Media. Oprah, Wendy Williams and Soledad O’Brien also were included in this group. Given her many successes, one may be surprised to know that Steele has a degree in mechanical engineering from Tuskegee University, not theater or the arts. At Tuskegee, she was crowned Miss Tuskegee University. While chalking up various honors, Ebony was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. She had a mastectomy and chemotherapy. She now serves as a national ambassador for Susan G. Komen Circle of Promise where she shares her experiences as a breast cancer survivor. Out of this experience came a name change. The divorcée dropped her married name, Arrington, and assumed her deceased mother’s maiden name, Steele. She explained that her experiences have caused her to develop a spirit as strong as steel. Steele is the owner of the Ebony Arrington Dance & Performance
Studio, the largest African American dance studio in the state of Alabama. She, her sister, Bronze McGhee Lougheed, and their father, Charles, have purchased a building that will house the family’s many businesses. Bronze also has that entrepreneurial spirit. She is the CEO and founder of the nonprofit SISTA (Sisters Inspiring Sisters Through the Arts), which is committed to the Bimingham and Atlanta communities. This group sponsors an annual golf tournament (last August, the 14th annual SISTA Elite Golf Tournament was held in BridgeMill), and proceeds from this event provide scholarships to students interested in dance, as well as financial assistance to different charities. Though the McGhee sisters live in different parts of the country now, Cherokee County always will have a special place in their hearts. After all, that is where their dad still lives! Margaret Miller has been a resident of Cherokee County for the past decade. Her writing hobby led her to become a columnist for community and daily newspapers.
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Local News
Best of Show
“Secret Agent Annie Mills” Sequoyah High
Created by Justin Clark, Ava Roberts, Hailey Thompson and Lauren Turnage
Runner Up
“Only…” Creekview High
Created by Jackson Estapa, Chloe Feibus, Abram Midyette and Maxton Williams
Third Place High school students throughout the county participated in the film festival.
Student Film Fest Names Winners
Sequoyah High School freshman Ava Roberts and her team took Best in Show at the April Cherokee Student Film Festival, for their entry, “Secret Agent Annie Mills.” “Having grown up doing on-camera acting, I was familiar with the set,” Roberts said. “When I heard about the Cherokee Student Film Festival, I thought it would be a great opportunity to get behind the camera.” The ninth-grader, who also attended the Cherokee Student Film Summit earlier this year, said both opportunities helped shape her skills and interest in working behind the camera. “I know much more about how challenging it is to run a set,” she said. “I have so much respect for directors and producers, and how much organization it takes to get everything together. It’s really important to communicate well.” The festival was presented by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED), in partnership with the Cherokee County School District’s (CCSD) audio/video technology and film educators. The winners were announced at this year’s festival, held at Sequoyah High School’s Skip Pope Stadium. “Working alongside the CCSD to prepare students for successful careers in film has led to moviemaking magic,” COED President Misti Martin said. “Events like these are a powerful catalyst for students to launch successful careers within the film industry, and make lifelong connections.” Student films were screened on the Jumbotron as 175 audience members cheered on 19 groups of student filmmakers from across the county. To learn more about film in Cherokee, visit cherokeega.org/film-media.
“Lucid Dream” Cherokee High Created by Hunter Schwartz, Hunter Tadin, Felisa Vasquez and Riley Watkins
Audience Choice Award (Qualifying Entry)
“Unconscious” Sequoyah High
Created by Andrew Kennedy, Tyler Sandt and Gabe Squillace
Audience Choice Award (Participating Entry)
“I Miss You” Sequoyah High
Created by Donovan Victorino, Robyn Walker and Ben Willison
Best Use of Prop
“Wanna Hear a Scary Story” Etowah High
Created by Sophia Berry, Marissa Migneco and Kaili Phillips
Best Cinematography
“Secret Agent Annie Mills” Sequoyah High
Created by Justin Clark, Ava Roberts, Hailey Thompson and Lauren Turnage
Best Sound Quality
“Lucid Dream” Cherokee High
Created by Hunter Schwartz, Hunter Tadin, Felisa Vasquez and Riley Watkins
Best Use of Line Sequoyah High’s Lauren Turnage, Ava Roberts, Hailey Thompson and Justin Clark took top honors for “Secret Agent Annie Mills.” 10
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Robyn Walker, Donovan Victorino and Ben Wilson celebrate after learning they got the most votes in the audience choice category.
“Security Breach” Woodstock High
Created by Taylor Collins, Alex Manser, Riley McCall and Brody Yot
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Senior Olympic Day Returns After two years of cancellations because of the pandemic, seniors in Cherokee County enjoyed the 13th annual Senior Olympic Day in Dupree Park recently. Organizers presented a modified schedule, with seven events, and hope to be back to a full schedule next year, according to Senior Olympics treasurer Diane Page. The oldest participant was just two months shy of being 99 years old.
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Tons and Pounds of Recycling The numbers are in from the recent Earth Day recycling event, hosted by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Cobb EMC and supported by Electrify EVSE. • More than 275 cars dropped off nearly 1,000 pounds of recycled electronics. • More than 3 tons of documents were shredded (equating to saving nearly 56 trees). • 65 pairs of tennis shoes, 326 gardening containers, approximately 50 aluminum cans, 20 expired children’s car seats, and more were recycled. For more information, visit CherokeeChamber.com or call 770-345-0400.
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More Details on Newest Cherokee Parks
BY HARRY JOHNSTON
The Cherokee County Recreation and Parks program, already rated the best of all large counties in Georgia, continues to move forward. The Board of Commissioners received a report at the May 3 meeting from the public conceptual input process for three future parks in northeast Cherokee — Long Swamp Creek Recreation Area, Yellow Creek Road and E.W. and Edith Cochran Park. We also approved a contract for Phase 1 construction of the new park in southwest Cherokee. The southwest park site is on Highway 92, near Hunt Road. The county bought the property more than 10 years ago using park bond funds. It’s adjacent to a site proposed for development as a shopping, dining and entertainment center. Based on public input during an earlier conceptual design process, Phase 1 of the park will include parking, a playground, an open-events and free-play area, a pavilion and a walking trail. We hope to start construction late this year. The first of the three parks in northeast Cherokee expected to be developed is a 24-acre tract where Long Swamp Creek enters the Etowah River, near Highway 372 in Ball Ground. It’s believed to have been the site of an Indian mound; a visitors center there will pay tribute to that Native American heritage. The park will include a canoe/kayak launch, an open meadow and pollinator garden, and an archery range. This will be a relatively low-cost park. Detailed design is expected next year, with construction in 2024. The second site is the 538-acre Yellow Creek Road conservation area, also on the Etowah River. Most of the site will be split 12
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Southwest park parcels 1 and 2. Photo courtesy of Cherokee County Recreation and Parks.
between mountain bike trails on the lower and steeper part of the property, and equestrian and hiking trails on the less-steep upper section. The plan calls for 10 miles of each type of trail, with no overlapping of the two. There will be a horse corral adjacent to the parking area, for riders who want to camp in their trailers overnight, and a second corral with a campsite at the far end of the trail, for those who want to ride or hike in. In addition, there will be a river walk trail and river access for canoes and kayaks. The current plan is to begin construction in 2027, but the commissioners have expressed interest in accelerating that schedule to allow volunteer trailbuilding efforts to begin. The third northeast property will become Cochran Park. It’s a 102-acre site adjacent to the site of the planned new Free Home
Elementary School, which will be just behind the current facility. This park will include an 18-hole disc golf course, an open-events and free-play area, a pond, a dog park, a cross-country running course, walking trails and paved bicycle trails. The open green will be big enough that it can be converted into one or more ball fields, if and when there’s demand for them. As the most expensive of the three northeast parks to build, this one probably won’t start construction until 2027. We already have the best parks and recreation facilities in the state of Georgia, and, with the addition of these new parks, we will have even more available for the enjoyment of the residents of Cherokee County. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts on these and other subjects. Please email me at hjohnston@cherokee.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner.
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Cherokee Co
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
ounty Parks Countless Ways to Get Out and Play
If you can’t get out of town this summer, don’t worry! You can get out of the house and enjoy all of the amenities offered by Cherokee Recreation and Parks. Check out the “coming soon” section on Page 16 for more details on parks and recreation facilities in the works, and flip to Page 12 for Harry Johnston’s most recent Cherokee Recreation and Parks update.
Badger Creek Park
The park includes 14 soccer fields of various sizes and restrooms. It is home to Cherokee Impact (www.csaimpact.com).
Cherokee Mills Park
Located near Little River, this park offers access to Allatoona Lake with three boat ramps and a boat dock. A day-use fee applies for the boat ramp ($5), or you can purchase a season pass at the recreation center in Woodstock.
Cherokee Veterans Park
Located on 149 acres in northeast Cherokee County, this is one of the largest parks in the county’s park system. Amenities include athletic fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a playground, skate park, walking trails, a large open meadow and restrooms.
Barnett Park
Cline Park
The 25-acre park includes baseball/ softball diamonds, a playground, picnic areas, restrooms and walking trails along Downing Creek.
This 12-acre park includes tennis courts, a wooded walking trail, playground and a seasonal splash pad.
Blankets Creek Bike Trails
Dwight Terry Park
Among the most popular mountain bike trails in the U.S., the 15 miles of volunteer-maintained trails are for beginners to advanced riders. Amenities at the trailhead include parking, pavilions and restrooms. Developed by a partnership between Cherokee County, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Allatoona Lake) and SORBA Woodstock.
Cherokee County Aquatic Center
The state-of-the-art, full-service aquatics facility, with two indoor pools and one outdoor pool, offers instructional, fitness, therapeutic, competitive and recreational swimming opportunities. The Oasis, the outdoor leisure pool, includes a water playground, two waterslides, play features, beach entry, pavilions, locker rooms and more.
A 30-acre park with baseball/softball diamonds, a playground, restrooms and a paved walking track. It is home to the Dwight Terry Baseball youth baseball program.
Field’s Landing Park
Situated on the north side of Allatoona Lake, this park has spectacular views of the lake, along with a boat ramp, fishing dock, playground, restrooms and several picnic areas and pavilions. A day-use fee applies for the boat ramp ($5), or you can purchase a season pass at the recreation center in Woodstock.
Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails The 19.7 miles of horse and hiking trails wind their way through 940plus wooded acres in northwest Cherokee County. The trailhead has trailer parking, a pavilion, restrooms and more.
Hickory Trails Park
Located in Hickory Flat, the park, on 24 pastoral and wooded acres, offers a walking trail. The trailhead is served by a gravel parking lot, two pavilions and restrooms.
Hobgood Park
This 60-acre park remains one of the most active and heavily used parks in Cherokee County. In addition to youth baseball and adult softball leagues, it hosts multiple softball/baseball tournaments every year. The walking track, playground and pavilions also are heavily used. To reserve a pavilion, call 770-924-7768. For information about tennis programs or to reserve a court, visit www.cherokeetenniscenter.com.
JJ Biello Park
Spread across 470 acres along Rubes Creek and Little River, the park includes tennis, youth softball, youth football, soccer and lacrosse, as well as a large pavilion and playground.
Kenney Askew Memorial Park
One of the oldest parks in the Cherokee County system, Kenney Askew Park was expanded to include the Richard Mauldin Sports Complex. Five new fields opened in fall 2015, and are home to Canton Baseball.
Lewis Park
Nestled in 57 acres of wooded land south of Allatoona Lake, this park has walking trails that wind along an unnamed tributary of the Little River, a playground, pavilions and restrooms. Turn to Page 50 to read more about Lewis Park and learn where Bells Ferry Road got its name.
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Patriots Park
The 33-acre park includes two natural grass baseball/softball diamonds, two fenced off-leash dog areas, a fully accessible and inclusive playground, a paved walking path, a large open meadow, picnic pavilion, restrooms and an artificial turf adaptive-use baseball/softball diamond. Dubbed Freedom Field, the adaptive-use field is designed for the inclusive use of athletes of all abilities.
Now Open!
The Cherokee County UGA Extension’s Backyard Agricultural Education Station at Cherokee Veterans Park is adjacent to park maintenance buildings. The station includes 10 corrugated metal raised plant beds, fencing, an irrigation system and a tool shed. It will serve as an outdoor learning space where visitors can attend classes and learn horticultural techniques from extension agents and trained volunteers. For information on classes, visit cherokeemastergardeners.com.
Recreation Center
Offices and most of the indoor programming offered are located here. Amenities include a gymnasium, community room, aerobics room, stage, playground, outdoor in-line hockey rink and restrooms.
Riverchase Park
Riverchase is a small neighborhood park in southeast Cherokee. It includes a playground and pavilion that is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Sequoyah Park
Sequoyah Park offers an athletic field, baseball/softball diamonds, playground, pavilion, restrooms, walking trail and disc golf.
Union Hill Community Center
Located in Union Hill, this historic building has been a school and a church, and now serves as a community center with a banquet hall, warming kitchen, playground and restrooms. Available for weddings and parties; call 770-924-7768 for reservations.
Waleska Park
Towne Lake Multiuse Trail
The first of four phases to install an 8-foot multiuse trail on Towne Lake Parkway from Towne Lake Hills South to Bells Ferry Road was estimated to be completed by May 30. The first phase extends from Towne Lake Hills South to Towne Lake Hills West.
SW Cherokee Parks and Trails Plan
This plan was adopted to add three new parks in southwest Cherokee, along with several miles of trails. The parks will include other features, such as playgrounds, athletic fields, and unique components like a dog park, splash pad, canopy walk, event lawn and recreation center. https://tsw.mysocialpinpoint.com/sw-cc-parks-trails-plan.
NE Cherokee County Parks Plan
Encompassing several recently-acquired parcels, this plan includes Cochran Park, which has 102 acres of potential active and passive recreational opportunities. Additionally, a tract at Long Swamp Creek is rich in Native American history, and a 538-acre parcel on Yellow Creek Road will be dedicated to hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing/ kayaking and more. https://tsw.mysocialpinpoint.com/ne-cc-parks-plan.
Hickory Flat Gym
Across the street from Reinhardt University, the park has three youth baseball/softball diamonds and a playground.
4835 Hickory Road, Canton. The Hickory Flat Elementary Gym was built in 1950 with volunteers and an on-site sawmill. While the interior will keep its unique look, the utilities and exterior will get a new facelift, but with some historic charm. The recreation and community center renovation project is estimated to be completed this month.
Weatherby Park
The Buzz
Located in Clayton, the park has an athletic field, three baseball/softball diamonds and a pavilion, all available for rent. Also available is a playground, restrooms and a walking track. 16
Coming Soon!
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Construction is underway for The LB “Buzz” Ahrens Recreation Center, estimated to be completed in late 2022 or January 2023. It will be a 33,000-square-foot facility with two basketball courts, a cardio/fitness area, multiple classrooms, a dance studio, a large banquet hall with a catering kitchen and a rock-climbing wall in the main atrium.
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Creating a Legacy and Strong Ties to Fire and Emergency Services Connect the Townsend Family Each year, the third Sunday in June is dedicated to showing love for our dads. There are countless ways to celebrate and make them feel special. But can you think of a better way to honor your father than following in his footsteps? Meet the Townsends — Woodstock residents — whose family includes five current, retired and in-training firefighters, spanning three generations. This line of firemen begins with Jimmy Townsend, who started working for Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services in 1968. His sons, Freddie and Scott followed suit, and both retired from Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services within the past four years. Freddie’s 20-year-old twin sons, Hayden and Hunter, are continuing the tradition. Hayden worked his first shift March 6, and Hunter began his 10-month training program with Cherokee County in April.
Scott, Jimmy and Freddie Townsend celebrate Hayden’s graduation from Cherokee County Recruit School at First Baptist Woodstock. 18
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Serving the Community Jimmy
“I was a Cobb County firefighter, and I retired in 1999. I worked for 31 years, and the most memorable experiences were when I was able to save lives and help those in need. “I actually originally applied for the police department, but there were no openings at the time. So the county manager told me about some job openings in the fire department, which I decided to take. When an opening came for the police department, I was called, but I told them that I actually liked it a lot more on the fire side. “It makes me extremely proud to have watched my sons and, now, grandsons serve their community.”
Freddie
“I retired from Cherokee County as a captain in April 2018. I am currently driving a bus for Cobb County Senior Services. “I worked 30 years, and over those 30 years, there are many memorable experiences, such as training for fire suppressions, auto extrications and emergency medical training. I got to help teach fire safety at the elementary schools in the county, and having parents stop by the station to let their children see where we work and live for a third of our lives [is memorable]. “It means a lot to serve our community. But when you grow up around the fire station visiting your dad and being able to sit in the fire engine, that probably was the main reason that got me interested in the fire service.”
Scott
“I was a sergeant paramedic, and I retired from Cherokee County in 2020. I currently work for the city of Woodstock as a code enforcement officer. “I worked for 25 years at Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. My best memories involved any time I was able to assist someone in their time of need. “I am proud that several family members have served their community selflessly, and I am honored that I was able to continue this legacy.”
Hayden
“I graduated from Cherokee County Recruit School in March and am now in the field. It’s going great so far; I really enjoy it. “The main reason I decided to go into fire and emergency services is because I grew up around it, and hearing all of the stories really influenced me. My goal is to serve my community and have a long and successful career.”
Hunter
“Training is hard work, but also a lot of fun. I’m excited to keep progressing and eventually graduate. I want to be able to help everyone I possibly can and make an impact in the fire department and community. “[Strong family ties] greatly influenced my decision to join. I grew up hanging out at the fire station, listening to stories, which made me realize that I wanted to be a part of that.” TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Celebrations! ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE!
Email: edit@aroundaboutmagazines.com July deadline is June 5. Please specify TowneLaker.
Olivia Kirkland
Happy Sweet 16th birthday! Love, Mom and Dad
Demetrius and Kiley
Demetrius and Kiley Moore of Towne Lake celebrated wedded bliss on April 23 at the Gaylord Opryland, surrounded by joyous friends and family.
Benjamin McElwain Happy birthday to our sweet boy! We love you so much! Nana and Poppy
Jourdan Washington
Happy Father’s Day to Jourdan Washington, from his son, Hawk, Mother and Auntie Joyce. We love you, and you are a wonderful father! 20
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Edgar Aufray
Age 8 on June 29 Happy birthday, my little man! Keep scoring these goals. Je t’aime — I love you so much, Papa
Lauren Giesler
Happy 18th birthday! We’re so proud of the young lady that you’ve become! Love, Mommy, Daddy and Ansley
Amelia Wolfe
Age 11 on May 25 Happy 11th birthday and fifth-grade graduation, Amelia! We are so proud of you and love you very much! Mom, Dad, Mr. Nils, Anna and Andrew
4
Ways to Cure Summer Boredom
BY SUSANNAH O. MACKAY
School is out for the summer, and that means many parents are looking for productive ways to keep their kids engaged and active. Have you ever thought about service? You’re never too young to help a neighbor in need. From toddlers to teens, there are many ways young people can get involved and wonderful benefits in doing so. For teens in particular, studies have shown the tremendous benefits of community involvement: increased self-esteem and confidence, more hope and gratitude, and even a reduction in risky behavior. Summer is a perfect time to get involved. Here are some ideas:
bags for The Children’s Haven. 1. Personalize https://bit.ly/3s8lAWV
This project is fun for kids and adults. Simply purchase the bags listed at this link, and decorate just one side with cheerful art or a message. It’s a wonderful way to bring dignity and joy to the clients served by The Children’s Haven.
no-sew blankets for MUST Ministries. 2. Make https://bit.ly/3KIQ20w
Even the youngest kids will have fun tying knots on no-sew blankets, which are easy, fun and really make a difference for clients supported by MUST.
place mats and cards for seniors. 3. Create https://bit.ly/39ydbWv
Kids can color pages from their favorite coloring book and glue them onto construction paper, or draw pictures on folded paper to make a card.
the Smithsonian. 4. Help https://bit.ly/39pVUyt
Teens, especially, might enjoy this opportunity! Be a part of real research at the Smithsonian by helping with data and catalogs online.
The best part about these opportunities is that you can do them as a family, but don’t hesitate to invite your neighbors to help, too. Be sure to check out these projects and more at justserve.org, or join the JustServe North Georgia public Facebook for weekly ideas all summer long. You can have a wonderful summer by serving!
Justserve.org is a free, nationwide website and app that works to match volunteers with nonprof it organizations and service opportunities. If you run a nonprof it or are looking for ways to make service a regular part of your life, check out justserve.org. You can sign up for regular updates and learn more about organizations nearby, too. JustServe makes it easy to just go out and serve!
Susannah MacKay is a local JustServe specialist. She grew up in Marietta and loves helping strengthen her community through service! Follow her on Facebook @ JustServeGeorgia. TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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5
Must-Try
Farmers Market Inspired Recipes Farmers market season is in full swing, and, if you need another excuse to stroll through the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market and browse booths filled with vibrant, fresh produce — here it is! Local vendors and the Cherokee County Farm Bureau submitted a few of their favorite recipes that use ingredients you might find at the market (8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Dec. 31). If you decide to try one of these recipes, take a photo of your creation and send it to us, or post it on social media and tag us. If you have a recipe to share, join the monthly Trefoil Gardens and Cherokee County Farm Bureau recipe contest at the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market. Recipes should feature fresh market ingredients, and winners will be chosen by a panel of market advocates and chef judges. Beginning in July, one $50 winner and two $10 winners will be awarded tokens at the Farm Bureau tent each month, to spend with more than 20 market vendors. Recipe cards will be available to shoppers, and the recipes will be archived at www.woodstockfarmers.com/recipes.
Honeyed Carrots Vicky Grizzle, from “Honey in the Kitchen,” a collection of recipes presented by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee and the Cherokee Beekeeper’s Club.
Ingredients
• 10-12 small carrots • 2 tablespoons margarine • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, firmly packed • 1 tablespoon honey • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley or fresh mint
Directions
Rinse and trim the carrots. Cook in a small amount of boiling water for 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain. Melt the margarine in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the sugar, honey and carrots. Reduce the heat to low and cook, turning the carrots frequently until well glazed. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or mint. Serve immediately.
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Arugula and Lemon Basil Pesto Cheryl Howlin
co-owner Circle A Farms At the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market on Saturdays. To learn about their farm-to-porch delivery program, visit circlealettuce.com.
Ingredients
• 1 bag Circle A Farms arugula and basil mix • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated • ½ cup pine nuts or walnuts • 1 teaspoon lemon zest • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
Pulse the basil and arugula in a food processor until finely minced. Add the cheese, nuts, zest and juice. Blend well. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until a thin paste forms. Add the salt and process until smooth. Add to your favorite dish or appetizer. This sauce freezes well.
Lemon Pecan Green Beans
Vicky Grizzle, from “Nuttin Like Georgia Pecans,” Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee.
Ingredients • • • • • • • •
1 pound fresh green beans ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon olive oil ¼ cup chopped green onions ¼ cup chopped Georgia pecans, toasted 2 teaspoons rosemary, fresh or dried 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 teaspoons grated lemon rind
Directions
Wash the beans and remove the ends. Sprinkle with salt. Arrange the beans in a steamer basket, and place over boiling water. Cover and steam for approximately 10 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Plunge the beans into cold water to stop cooking, drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the green onions and cook, stirring constantly, about 10 minutes. Add the green beans, pecans, rosemary and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly until the mixture is thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with lemon rind and garnish with lemon slices and fresh rosemary, if desired. Serve immediately. Yields 4 servings.
Tomato Salsa
From “Vegetables in the Kitchen,” a collection of recipes presented by Cherokee County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee.
Ingredients • • • • • •
1 pound cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 large green onions, finely chopped parsley, mint or sage leaves to taste 1 tablespoon lime juice salt and pepper to taste 1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions
Combine the first five ingredients. Add the salt and pepper. Use as a dip with chips or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Blueberry Lemon Bread Aletia DuPree
At the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market on Saturdays. For more recipes, visit https://aletiadupree.com.
Bread Ingredients
• 2½ cups cake flour, sifted and then measured (reduce to 2¼ cups if using all-purpose or plain flour, ) • 2 teaspoons baking powder • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 eggs, well beaten • 1½ cups sugar • ½ cup vegetable oil • ½ cup whole milk • juice and zest of 1 large lemon • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups blueberries tossed with 1 tablespoon of flour (for frozen blueberries, thaw and then measure) • extra blueberries and lemon zest for garnish (optional)
Icing Ingredients
• 1 tablespoon butter • 2 tablespoons milk • 1¾ cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted and then measured • 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9-inch by 5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Add the sugar and oil to the eggs, and stir, using a wooden spoon or whisk. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, alternating with the milk. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice and vanilla extract. Gently stir and fold the blueberries into the batter. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. (Check on the bread after about 40 minutes. If it’s getting too brown, reduce the heat to 325 degrees and continue baking until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.) Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan while making the icing. Melt the butter and milk together in a small saucepan. In a small mixing bowl, pour the hot, melted butter and milk over the confectioners’ sugar. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Whisk well or beat, until smooth and creamy. When the bread is cooled, take it out of the pan and place on a wire rack. Drizzle icing over the bread. Let the icing set for about 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh blueberries and lemon zest, if desired. Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. The bread will stay fresh for 5 to 6 days. TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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EVERYDAY
On the afternoon of March 1, Bill Redmond, 58, and his friend Rick decided to take a motorcycle ride to Roswell to shop for a bike for Bill, something that he had been wanting since the COVID-19 isolation days. On the return ride to Woodstock, their motorcycle was T-boned by a vehicle on Jamerson Road. The two men were ejected from the bike and sustained serious injuries. “I was in Pittsburgh on a work trip when I received a call from Bill,” said Cheryl, Bill’s wife. “It was odd, because Bill knows that I cannot answer my phone when I am in meetings. However, the voicemail message received was not from Bill. Someone at the scene of the accident had used his phone to notify me of what had happened. They were waiting on the ambulance to arrive, and Bill was unable to speak. Paramedics transported Bill to [Wellstar] Kennestone Hospital, a Level II trauma center. “Helpless, in another state, I immediately called my 22-year-old daughter, who is a senior nursing student at KSU. She left class to meet Bill at the hospital, along with another close family friend. Our son, Jake, 25, serves in the Army and was scheduled to be deployed the very next day. Unsure of the outcome, I knew I needed to inform Jake before he left. I am thankful to the Army and the American Red Cross for allowing Jake to return home to be with his father. Meanwhile, I got home as quickly as possible.” Bill arrived in the emergency room with internal bleeding, a broken pelvis, fractured spine, broken ribs, crushed urethra, severe nerve damage and road rash. Bill’s injuries required seven surgeries, and he was on a ventilator for 12 days. “Although the road ahead is long, we are thankful he 24
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Bill, Cheryl, Jake and McKenna Redmond.
is with us. It could have been much worse,” Cheryl said. On April 8, Bill was transferred to the Shepherd Center for recovery and rehabilitation. Sepsis and infection initially slowed his progress, but Bill continues to recover and must remain at Shepherd for three months. Assuming all goes as planned, Bill will return home, but will need extensive in-home care and rehabilitation. The doctors believe he can recover and walk, but it could take up to 18 months. Bill’s friend, Rick, also survived the crash, but sustained similar trauma, as well as a brain injury that he is recovering from. It also will take time. The Redmond family has lived in and served the Woodstock community for 29 years. Bill is a business owner, often working 12hour days, while Cheryl works full time in commercial real estate. Cheryl now finds herself in the role of sole provider, with mounting medical bills and unlimited rehabilitation ahead.
“This isn’t exactly how we planned out our empty nesting years, but we are so grateful that Bill’s life was spared that day. We are thankful to our wonderful community, family and friends who have helped us so far, and we plan to pay it forward as soon as we are able,” she said. Close friends shared Bill’s story with Everyday Angels, in hopes of rallying our community around the Redmond family during this time. They also have created a GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/f/helpus-get-bill-home?qid=740b2b9eb1a7 752603fa202ff4aee727. Friends have planned fundraising events at local establishments. “You are helping one of the most loving, kind and generous families you will ever know or wish you did,” said Amy, a friend. Everyday Angels will accept monetary donations to offset medical costs or gas cards to help with the daily commute to the Shepherd Center for this sweet family. We are thankful for your prayers.
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 our community, email aaeverydayangels@gmail.com.
Models: Hair cut, colour and styles by élon Salon.
Warmer weather means hair fashion is taking its cue from Mother Nature and delivering scintillating shades of Blonde. The official hair colour of summer shows its versatility, ranging from gracefully subtle highlights to outrageously bold and brilliant platinums. Blonde truly offers something for anyone wanting to experience its attention grabbing popularity. When you are ready to experience hair care at its finest, call or go online to book an appointment and discover why élon is the Salon that’s all about you.
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770.427.8698 • 695 Piedmont Rd • Marietta • elonsalon.com • ig: @elonsalon1 TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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A Crash Course on Engine Cooling Systems BY DEIDRE PARKER
It’s getting hotter, and we appreciate our cooling systems more in the summer. But, no matter the weather outside, your vehicle’s cooling system plays a vital role in how your car operates. For most cars, it’s a system of hoses, channels, pumps and other devices that move coolant around the engine to manage the heat that is produced when the gasoline combusts. When it’s colder outside, auto service specialists often hear: “What do you mean there is a problem in my cooling system? I asked you to look at my heater.” It’s a little counter intuitive with the way things are named, but your heat also stops working because of a problem with your cooling system. Originally, the only function of the cooling system was to take the heat away from the engine. It was just some coolant, a few hoses and a radiator. The coolant would circulate around the engine to pull the heat away from the engine block. The coolant then was pumped into the top of the radiator. As the water fell through the radiator, air took the heat away from the coolant. Then, the coolant was recirculated and did this same job over and over. Not long after, engineers decided
that, if systems were simply radiating heat to the open air, they also could radiate that heat into the passenger compartment. But coolant would not get hot enough in extreme cold, which prevented it from generating heat. This led to the addition of the thermostat, which is a specialized plug that stays closed until the coolant reaches a certain temperature, when the plug opens and the coolant is free to cycle. If your car is cold in the winter, you might have noticed the heat doesn’t work. In this case, the coolant has not warmed enough to open the thermostat and allow the coolant to flow through the little
radiator on the inside of your passenger compartment (the heater core). The heat from your engine is the same heat you feel when you turn on your heater. Over time, there have been air conditioning components integrated into the system to allow for defrosting of the windows, computerized controls and more improvements that, if serviced regularly, keep us cool all summer long. Deidre Parker, owner-operator of Chloe's Auto Repair, holds an ASE certification and has extensive experience in the area of automotive repair.
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WWW.AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM 26
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Supporting Our Men and Women in Blue BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Last month, we commemorated National Police Week (May 1521) in honor and support of law enforcement. In Cherokee County, honor and remembrance lasts much longer than police week and has a special meaning for county resident Steve Marcinko. In early 2021, Marcinko wanted to make a difference in the lives of the members of law enforcement. “While hosting a fundraiser at Rustix Manor, the Woodstock venue I own and operate, I needed security,” Marcinko said. “I hired officer Preston Peavy of the Cherokee County Sheriff ’s Department. As I was making my rounds during the event, he and I struck up a conversation about the ongoing war on our police forces, and we came up with an idea for our community to show support for our cops.” Acting on the idea, Marcinko founded the nonprofit, Back our Blue and America Too (BOBAAT), and began to plan an event to honor our
Marykate Burson
police officers. When he learned about the tragic death of Holly Springs police officer Joe Burson, killed during a traffic stop June 17, 2021, Marcinko postponed the BOBAAT event out of respect to the family. When the new date arrived — Oct. 30, 2021 — it became a celebration of Officer Joe Burson Day, a day that was proclaimed by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. The fundraiser was a success, with community support of donations that included enough food to serve 1,500 meals. Approximately 500 members of law enforcement and their families, along with county officials and residents, attended, including Sheriff Frank Reynolds and Capt.
Harry Johnston presents the proclamation to Marykate, Frances and John Burson. 28
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Jay Baker of the Cherokee County Sheriff ’s Office, former Woodstock Chief of Police Calvin Moss and Holly Springs Police Deputy Chief Greg Clyburn. Commission chairman Harry Johnston read the proclamation and presented it to Burson’s widow, Marykate. “Law enforcement agencies in Cherokee County are blessed to have so much support from our community. We recognize many agencies in other areas do not receive the same love and support,” said Baker, director of communications and community relations for the Cherokee County Sheriff ’s Department. “Going forward, I am sure that BOBAAT will again do events to show this community’s continuing support, appreciation and gratitude to our police forces,” Marcinko said. “And even though the event, and all that went with it, was such a marvelous success, it still seemed insufficient considering what our cops do, particularly considering the loss Marykate is enduring.” For more information, visit backourblueandamericatoo.com. Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.
LOOK TO NORTHSIDE A Community of Care on a Mission to Heal At Northside Hospital, you can look forward to new beginnings, look ahead to comeback seasons, and look up for hope and strength. Led by our expertise in maternity, heart, cancer, orthopedics and more, you can move into tomorrow with confidence knowing there is a community of care at Northside that’s guided by one clear direction, a mission to heal. For a healthier future together, look to Northside Hospital.
Learn more about our services at northside.com
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Ask The Doctors
Hybrid Operating Rooms
SUBMITTED BY NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL
DR. KANG
Dr. Edward Kang completed his fellowship in vascular surgery at the University of Minnesota in 2012 and is board-certified in vascular surgery. He has been recognized as a top doctor, is published in a variety of surgery journals and has participated in vascular surgery research activities.
if the patient needs to have an 1. What open surgery?
If surgeons determine that other procedures, including traditional open surgery, are needed for a patient, the open surgery can be done safely and immediately in the same room.
type of procedures are 1. What performed in a hybrid OR?
Hybrid ORs support complex open and minimally invasive surgeries, exemplified by procedures such as Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR).
does EVAR involve? 1. What EVAR involves inserting a graft within an aneurysm through small groin artery incisions using X-rays to guide the graft into place. The technology provides surgeons with exceptional image resolution in real time, which means EVAR can be completed with more accuracy, speed and confidence than before.
are the benefits of EVAR in 1. What a hybrid OR?
Benefits include no abdominal surgery and a decreased hospital stay due to a far shorter recovery period. Where traditional surgery would take three to six months to heal, EVAR results in a time of two weeks to several months for recovery.
DR. WILSON Dr. Cheney Fenn Wilson, a board-certified specialist in vascular surgery, prides herself in communicating clearly with her patients and working together to develop treatment plans. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and management of arterial and venous disease disorders.
is a hybrid operating room (OR)? 1. What Hybrid ORs are complex working environments
that combine a traditional operating room with an imageguided interventional suite, allowing for advanced surgical procedures. This room offers complex imaging equipment where surgeons can have real-time access and visibility of peripheral arteries within the body, while they are working to repair or bypass blockages.
are the benefits of a hybrid OR? 1. What A hospital that utilizes a hybrid OR avoids duplicated
equipment, resources, space, supplies and staff allocations. This means staff saves time since procedures can be booked as one procedure instead of two separate procedures. Additionally, a hybrid OR gives surgeons the ability to revise the traditional treatment plan and work in the same surgical suite on procedures requiring multiple interventions or modalities.
sets apart a hybrid OR from a 1. What traditional OR?
Hybrid ORs are about twice as large as traditional ORs, have the usual surgical equipment, plus very sophisticated imaging technology that normally isn’t located in an OR.
does a hybrid OR improve patient care? 1. How Vascular surgeons can perform both open and minimally invasive procedures in the same visit. This prevents patients from needing to come back to the hospital for multiple visits and reduces the risk because they need anesthesia only once.
does a hybrid OR impact patient 1. How recovery time?
Studies have shown patients undergoing surgery in a hybrid OR have fewer complications, a shorter recovery time and do not stay in the hospital for as long, because they need to recuperate from only one procedure. 30
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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A New Branch
Ties in Cherokee County Grow Deeper L
GE Community Credit Union’s roots in Cherokee County run even deeper with the addition of its new Towne Lake branch, which opened earlier this year. Located at 936 Towne Lake Parkway, the new branch is LGE’s third location in Cherokee, and 14th overall. With LGE’s continued growth, opening a location in Towne Lake was the logical next step, and Marcus Porch, the Towne Lake branch manager, is excited to bring the LGE difference to a new community. “We pay attention to our members, and we knew that there was a need for a branch in Towne Lake. We’re blessed to be a part of such a great community,” Marcus said. “The community has been so welcoming. It’s clear that the opening of our new branch in such a convenient location has been beneficial to many of our members.”
Credit Union Difference The structure of LGE differs from other financial institutions in many ways. LGE is governed by a volunteer board of directors who also are credit union members. It’s a not-for-profit, memberowned financial institution that returns profit to members in the form of better rates and lower fees. Members have access to full-service banking with products and services for every stage of life, with all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a big bank, plus benefits like special offers and discounts, and free online financial education resources. LGE is driven by the credit union philosophy of people helping people; the top priorities are serving members and supporting the communities it serves. LGE serves all residents and businesses within Bartow, Cherokee, Cobb, Fulton and Paulding counties.
Experts in The Field
The Towne Lake branch team from left, Vivienne Graham, Michelle Dollar, Marcus Porch and Matthew Perrault. 32
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Although the new branch has been open only a few months, LGE’s Towne Lake team is not new to financial services or serving members. Marcus and his threeperson team, also known as financial solutions specialists, have more than 40 years of credit union experience among
Photos by LaRuche Photo
SPONSORED CONTENT
LGE Community Credit Union – Towne Lake 936 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA 30189 770-424-0060 • LGEccu.org
Branch manager Marcus Porch helping a member.
them. Marcus is a Kennesaw State University graduate, with a bachelor of business administration degree in management. The combined experience and know-how allows the Towne Lake branch team to deliver expert advice and personalized service to each member and nonmember who walks through its doors.
Peace of Mind When one LGE member visited the new Towne Lake branch recently, she left in a better financial state, and with more peace of mind.
The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting was well attended.
and she was able to pay back everything at a much lower rate,” said Marcus Porch, the Towne Lake branch manager. “Needless to say, she was very happy about her experience.”
The member came into the branch to make a credit card payment. After talking with the member, the LGE team realized the member’s credit card debt was a major source of stress in her life. Through conversation, LGE employees worked to assess the members’ full financial situation and identify solutions to meet her specific needs.
While every financial situation is unique, this story of a happy LGE member is a good example of the kind of service Marcus and his team offer. “We strive to do more for you than what you came in for,” he said. “We are dedicated to the health and advancement of our members’ financial lives.”
After learning the member had a car loan with another institution, the LGE team refinanced her car loan at a lower rate and, because the member had enough equity in the vehicle, her credit card balance was consolidated with her LGE car loan. “Overnight, the credit card debt that she was struggling to pay down was gone,
One of the biggest differences between LGE and other financial institutions is its commitment to supporting the communities it serves, according to Marcus.
Emphasis on Community
LGE gives back financially through the LGE Community Outreach Foundation;
since 2010, LGE has donated more than $1.75 million to local nonprofit organizations and individuals in need through the foundation. LGE employees also are given the opportunity to volunteer during company time throughout the year. “Most recently, I had the honor of presenting Circle of Friends, a nonprofit serving adults with disabilities right here in Woodstock, with a donation from the LGE Foundation at our grand opening celebration in March, which was a great feeling,” Marcus said. For more information about LGE, visit LGEccu.org. Federally insured by NCUA. Membership eligibility required.
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Honor Where Honor Is Due BY THE REV. JOSEPH COUSIN
Each year in June, we celebrate Father’s Day to recognize the importance of fathers. The Bible teaches us that honoring our fathers and mothers will produce a long and full life. Therefore, as we celebrate another Father’s Day, it is imperative that we give honor where honor is due. “Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” — Exodus 20:12 As we celebrate fathers this month, we are recognizing the important roles they play in the life of the family. In honoring our fathers, we are recognizing that we need them and are thankful for their commitment. By acknowledging that we need them, we are exhibiting humility in that admission. Honor fathers by thanking them for all that they do to be role models to all.
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If you are able, call your father, spend time with your father and thank your father for all he has done for you. If your father is no longer living, find a way to show him honor on this special day. And if you are a father, continue to be the role model, example and guide for your children and anyone needing assistance. My father recently celebrated his 89th birthday and is a wonderful example of fatherhood. The lessons he taught me — and still teaches me to this day — are essential as I strive to be a worthy father to my children. On Father’s Day, I will give honor to my dad and thank him for all of his hard work, and I encourage everyone to do the same for their father. This Father’s Day, give honor where honor is due. It is guaranteed that you will live a fruitful life in the land in which God gives to us all.
Rev. Joseph Cousin Sr. and his father, Bishop Philip Cousin. He has four brothers, Philip Jr., Steven, David and Michael — all are pastors in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Rev. Joseph N. Cousin Sr. is pastor of Allen Temple AME Church in Woodstock and the founding president of the Cherokee County NAACP.
3 Common Myths About Hearing Loss
SUBMITTED BY NORTH GEORGIA AUDIOLOGY
How many ads do you see each week for hearing devices? If you think hearing devices are being marketed more these days, you are correct. With “hearing stores” popping up in every other strip mall, warehouse clubs, magazine ads and the internet, the confusion for those in need of assistance is increasing at the same rate.
Myth: I hear what I need to hear and get along fine. Fact: You only hear what your hearing capacity permits.
The reality of what actually is being said is altered for a person with hearing loss. If you can’t hear it, how do you know you missed it? People with untreated hearing loss experience a decreased quality of life. It has been proven to cause varied levels of depression, anxiety, paranoia and poor social relationships. According to the Hearing Health Foundation, those with even mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia.
Myth: My insurance doesn’t cover hearing care, and I can’t afford to pay out of pocket. Fact: Credentialed audiologists can contract with major insurance companies. Diagnostic hearing testing typically is covered once a year, and more plans are starting to include hearing aid benefits. Financing programs that offer loans to help cover upfront costs of hearing aids might be worth considering. Myth: I will save money if I buy online or at my warehouse club. Fact: You get what you pay for. Those making the decision for the first time typically are unaware of what the commitment entails or what to ask. Each person is unique; however, every person will need some level of continued service and expert consultation. The right medical provider will offer you the choice between a competitive and more inclusive pay-as-you-go plan, or a plan that includes unlimited service and office visits. Do not be fooled into thinking you can pay one low price for your device(s) and be set for years to come. The reality is, it takes proper consultation, fitting, programming and follow-up. Consult with a doctor of audiology to determine the course for your success. These providers are medically trained and continually certified as hearing technology and options evolve. The knowledge and patience of your service provider, in fitting you with the best option that meets your hearing needs and budget, will ensure you can transform your quality of life. Your local links to better hearing, North Georgia Audiology’s doctors have successfully led thousands of hearing-challenged patients to more enjoyable and fulfilling lives.
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The Language of the Nations BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Sports are a universal element in all cultures. Bringing people together, no matter their origin, background or economic status is the reason the International Sports Federation (ISF) exists, serving to bring life, hope and the love of Jesus to the world through the world of sports. ISF creates mission opportunities for people looking to share their faith with others through their gifts and talents, and sends teams around the globe to participate in sporting events, global gatherings and serve in humanitarian aid. For 29 years, more than 18,000 people have served 164 countries, and their sports missions have touched 550,000 lives. ISF mobilizes people who have a heart for others and a thirst for adventure. Each year, the nonprofit receives requests from missionaries, churches, orphanage administrators, government officials and
Cheryl Wolfinger provides a smile to a refugee during her recent trip to Poland, where she observed how the International Sports Federation can help refugees affected by the Russia-Ukraine war. 36
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International Sports Federation President and CEO Cheryl Wolfinger, John Kelso, John Fuller, Phil Lazo, Jason Smith and Bryan Doyle.
sports professionals who desire a team of volunteers to assist them. ISF is a connection between those needing volunteers and volunteers who desire to serve on the mission field through sports like baseball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, golf and more. Serving on a sports mission project gives students and adults an opportunity to bring encouragement to those most in need, from facilitating vacation Bible school in orphanages to providing recreational opportunities at medical clinics and national level sports clinics. “I can’t thank ISF enough for taking a teenager from Arkansas out of the country for his very first time almost 11 years ago,” said volunteer Brett Bagwell. “My life was forever changed, and I’ve been on fire for serving Jesus and passionate about reaching his people ever since. I pray for another trip with ISF someday soon.” Ian, a golf tournament participant at St. Andrews, Scotland, shares his experience: “This tournament was one of the most memorable and pleasurable golfing days of my life. Everything from the communication, last minute team adjustments for my brother’s stressful flat tire incident, welcome arrival, surprise goody bag, golf, electric golf carts, meal and friendship was all awesome and greatly appreciated. My big brother and I tend to disagree a lot about trivial things when we are together, but this golf event brought a lot more harmony and peace between us than normal. I hope my brother has received a seed of information from the event that will lead him to Christ in the near future.” Cherokee resident Cheryl Wolfinger was a 27-yearold country kid from eastern Oklahoma when she was challenged to develop a new, global, sports-focused organization. Using her experience as a college and
center, pictured with ISF staff members, from left: Harry Tom,
international-level basketball player, Cheryl served a domestic sports ministry before she accepted the challenge to launch ISF in 1993. “Serving a nonprofit for almost 30 years has been no easy task,” she said. “There have been many peaks and valleys, including a battle with stage 4 cancer in 2004. “After claiming victory over cancer, I was happy to be alive. To build myself back up, I started walking, which led to hiking, backpacking and kayaking. For our 20th anniversary fundraiser, I thought it would be a great idea to lead a team of climbers up Mount Kilimanjaro! We hiked a total of 60 miles. It took six days to go to the top and two days to come back down. The 24 team members raised $10,000 each. I continued to challenge myself. To raise money in 2015 for even more adventures, I rode a bicycle 3,100 miles from San Diego, California, to St. Augustine, Florida. I believe using sports is one the best tools to build lasting relationships. Here at ISF, we give people the opportunity to invest in others and, over the years, I have discovered international travel makes us much better citizens.” ISF headquarters are located at 4801 Wade Green Road, Acworth. To learn more, visit sportsmissions.com. Trips in 2024 include Greece, Malawi, Northern Ireland and the Paris Summer Olympics. For more information, email info@sportsmissions.com or mobilization@ sportsmissions.com, or call 770-424-5781. Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.
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What Are the Causes of Cystocele?
BY CHEROKEE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS, PC
Prolapsed bladder, also known as cystocele, is a condition where the bladder drops because of lack of support. Due to a variety of reasons, the pelvic floor muscles and tissues can weaken over time, causing the bladder to descend. There are multiple causes of prolapse; the most common is childbirth, especially with a long or difficult labor, a large baby or multiple births. Other causes include heavy lifting or straining, menopause (when the body no longer produces estrogen), and obesity, which puts additional strain on pelvic muscles and tissue. When the bladder prolapse is mild, women may not experience any symptoms, and the condition may be discovered only during a routine examination. But many women do experience these common symptoms and more: • A sensation of pressure in the bladder or vagina. • Leakage of urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing, etc. • Frequent bladder infections. • A sensation that the bladder is not completely empty right after urinating. • Difficulty urinating. • Pelvic pain or discomfort. • Lower back pain. If you notice that you may have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately. A prolapsed bladder usually worsens over time, but, thanks to modern methods, it can be fixed. Your doctor can categorize the degree of prolapse as mild, moderate, severe or complete. If it is mild, it usually requires
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no immediate treatment other than to refrain from heavy lifting or exertion. For more serious cases, depending on health, age and other factors, nonsurgical treatments such as the use of a device called a pessary to hold the bladder in the correct position, estrogen replacement therapy, electrical stimulation and more are available. In severe cases, surgery often is the best option. While there is no guarantee that bladder prolapse can completely be prevented, there are some things you can do to help reduce the chances of it occurring, including: • Maintaining a healthy weight. • Eating fiber to prevent constipation. • Refraining from smoking. (Chronic coughing contributes to bladder prolapse.) • Training your bladder by trying to maintain a regular schedule of set times for urination. • Doing Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. Prolapsed bladder and its effects can be uncomfortable, restrictive and inhibit a normal lifestyle. It’s important to go to a highly trained gynecology specialist to address these issues so you can get back to living the life you deserve.
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC has six OB-GYNs and five midlevel providers, with offices in Canton and Woodstock.
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Growing Great Grass Don’t Fight — Work With Mother Nature!
ART AND TEXT BY ANN LITREL
Most of the struggles we have with our lawns come from fighting the nature of grass. You can have a nicelooking yard without too much work; it just takes a little smart design. Grass likes sun. Even shade-tolerant varieties, such as fescue, like to have some sun. However, none of the grass varieties we commonly grow in our yards naturally grow in north Georgia. So the more grass you have, the more maintenance you should expect. Modern landscapers are using grass more selectively than in the past. In many
new developments, turf installations are used more as accents and in activity areas, not as the main event. Take a look at your existing yard. If you have beautiful canopy oaks, pines and hickories, do yourself a favor and extend a generous natural mulched area around them. Don’t be afraid to eliminate areas of thin, unhealthy grass where turf is a losing battle. Just mulch right over thin grass and create sharp new borders. Look at the remaining grass areas. Are there lots of ins and outs or odd contours? Consider editing your remaining turf to attractive simple shapes, just for your high-function areas (activities/entertaining), with an “accent rug” of turf for looks. Even if you reduce your turf areas, the remaining grass might be in such poor shape that you have to commit to a year of conventional “weed and feed” regimen, complete with pesticides and herbicides. But if you start fresh by installing new turf in a smaller, more efficient accent area, this won’t be necessary. A final note of encouragement: If you choose the grass variety best for your yard conditions, and focus it in a mostly sunny area, you might be surprised to find that only a slow-release organic fertilizer is necessary to keep it beautiful, once the grass is established. Many healthy turf grasses, Bermuda grass being one example, will outcompete and keep weeds at bay. Backyard lawn limited to an “area rug” for activities.
Maximize areas planted with native trees, shrubs and perennials that support wildlife. Street trees absorb stormwater, shade pavements, and clean the air
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3 Grass Maintenance Facts
I provide facts below not to say we don’t want beautiful turf areas in our community, but to show the potential benefits of reducing their size: • Surprisingly, one gas mower emits the same amount of pollutants into your yard as eight new cars driving 55 mph the same amount of time. Gas lawn mowers and garden equipment engines are not regulated in the same way as auto engines (peoplepoweredmachines.com). • Homeowners use 10 times the amount of pesticides and fertilizers on their grass per acre as farmers do for their crops (peoplepoweredmachines.com). In Towne Lake, chemicals run off from our yards into Allatoona Lake U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water. • Lawn chemicals have been linked to two types of cancer in pets. Chronic (ongoing) exposure to Environmental Protection Agency-approved pesticides has been flagged as a danger to children by the American Academy of Pediatrics (washington.edu).
Ann Litrel is an artist and certified Master Naturalist. She instructs nature journal workshops and paints in her studio, Ann Litrel Art, in Towne Lake.
Deciduous trees planted to the south shade homes and allow the sun’s warming rays in winter.
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M
A Message From the
argaret Thatcher is famous for saying, “Plan your work for today and every day, then work your plan.” Between my time serving as mayor and the eight years I spent in Georgia’s House of Representatives, I’ve learned a critical differentiator in local government: Planning is everything. The city of Woodstock excels in planning and, more importantly, in executing the plan. Last month, I told you about our comprehensive transportation plan, and that is just scratching the surface. We have won awards for our Livable Centers initiatives, our Smart Communities Challenge initiatives, as a Certified Green Community, and so much more. We were recognized by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs as one of 10 PlanFirst Communities in Georgia. Our city manager often references making sure that our planning documents don’t collect dust on a shelf. As the “Iron Lady” taught us: Plan your work, then work the plan. That’s why I’m so proud of the annexation growth boundary agreement that our City Council has adopted with the Cherokee County Commission, the first of its kind in decades. While I was running for mayor, I committed to focus on developing a growth boundary with the county, and, on April 11, the City Council unanimously adopted a Memorandum of Understanding, establishing one for the next six years. The growth boundary agreement is a document that defines and limits future growth for the city. The document isn’t legally binding, but it represents an agreement between both governments that the city will limit its annexations to areas inside the boundary, and the county will not oppose annexations within those borders. The past few decades have seen some contentious growth disputes between Cherokee County and several of its cities. These issues aren’t unique to our county, but growth boundary agreements are an excellent tool to avoid preventable strife. By coming to a mutual agreement on where a city’s natural boundaries should progress, we avoid individual disputes each
and every time an annexation conversation arises. The plan guides sensible growth and aligns character areas. It provides a path forward to ensure Woodstock, as the 29th largest city in the state and among the fastest growing in the nation, can continue to thrive as a vibrant downtown community, while also ensuring that the rural communities throughout the rest of Cherokee County are preserved. Woodstock’s population has nearly doubled each decade for 30 years. Establishing boundaries and preplanning is the only way to ensure that growth works in favor of those of us who already call this place home. It is my mission as your mayor to ensure the growth that comes to Cherokee County works for us rather than happens to us. The Woodstock Growth Boundary encompasses an area generally around the current city limits. On the south and east sides, the area extends to the county lines with Cobb and Fulton, south of Highway 92 and Little River. On the west side, the area runs along 92, stopping shy of Bells Ferry Road. On the north side, the line stops at the city of Holly Springs and ceases on Arnold Mill Road at Trickum Road. It represents a long-term outlook that keeps our governments focused on rational, real solutions for the citizens we represent. We each owe our City Council and city staff a big thank you for making this agreement a priority. The council and the commission put the future first and accomplished a historic win for our communities. I’m proud of the work our city is doing to look forward. As I have told you before, the mission of my administration is to build a city that our children will be proud to inherit. Long-term strategic planning is a critical component in accomplishing that mission, and I’m proud of the work all sides put into getting this agreement across the finish line. — Mayor Michael Caldwell
Michael Caldwell is the 31st mayor of Woodstock, a retired state legislator, member of the Georgia Technology Authority, partner at Black Airplane, husband to Katie, and father to Oliver, Elizabeth and Charlotte.
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Rob’s Rescues These animals are waiting for homes at Cobb County Animal Services.
This dog’s name is Jett. He is a 1-year-old terrier who is a perfect dog. Jett is very nice, with a great personality. He is very nervous here at the shelter and would make a really great companion for someone once he is adopted.
This month, I interviewed Matt Lindenberg, founder and executive director of Global Conservation Corps (www.globalconservationcorps.org). This interview is part one of three parts, which will continue in July and August.
What does Global Conservation Corps (GCC) do, and where is it based?
Our global headquarters is in Atlanta, and our operational work is in South Africa. We are a nonprofit organization that bridges the gap between community and wildlife. Poaching is a huge problem. We lose one to two rhinos every day. We support rangers and educate communities around wildlife refuges, inspiring kids to become future rangers.
Why did you start GCC?
This cat’s name is Leeloo. She is 7 years old and a very sweet cat. She was a stray, because nobody would ever turn such a perfect cat in to the shelter. Leelo would be a great cat to just sit and chill out with.
I trained field rangers on the front lines at the Wildlife College at Kruger National Park (KNP) in South Africa. A Zulu man, Martin Mthembu, was my mentor and one of the best and most courageous rangers. He saved my life twice — once from a black mamba snake and the second time from two lions. Martin believed that we need to teach ownership in conservation and engage the communities living around the wildlife refuge, hoping that some of these kids will become rangers themselves instead of turning to poaching. When Martin died in a car accident, I knew I had to take his work further. In impoverished communities around KNP, most of the kids have never seen wildlife. GCC creates access for these kids in the hope of building empathy for wild animals.
Have you always been interested in wildlife?
Yes. From a young age, I was a birder. I made my first visit to KNP when I was 6 years old. I was lucky enough to go out with some rangers and saw lion tracks and hippos. The memory of those people protecting wildlife got me on my own path. 44
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Rob with Matt Lindenberg of Global Conservation Corps.
What is your favorite animal?
I have three. Rhinos — they are super gentle, very threatened and misunderstood. Cheetahs — only one out of 10 cubs survive their first year, and cheetah moms are amazing. Honey badgers — they take no nonsense and have amazing courage. They can fight off a herd of elephants, and they can be bitten by a black mamba snake and survive.
Tell us about the kids you work with in South Africa.
We have a Future Rangers program that logs the interests and aptitudes of the kids we work with, from 5 to 18 years old, and when they leave school, we try and help them build a future. A lot of them just want to leave the area as soon as they can and go to big cities, but we try to help the ones we can. The problem is that there are so many kids and few jobs.
Your movie, “Rhino Man,” is coming out soon. What was your inspiration?
Martin Mthembu is the inspiration for this movie. Rangers are soldiers fighting a war to protect animals. They get paid $500 per month — so, not very well. Poaching is a big business. Poachers know where rangers’ families live, and they are threatened daily. The movie is about these rangers who protect South Africa’s rhinos from being poached to extinction.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
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Scarlet Rosemallow A True Star of the Garden BY MARY TUCKER
Huge red blooms, attractive foliage, value for wildlife, adaptability in the garden and nice fall foliage color describe the Southeastern-native plant known as scarlet rosemallow (Hibiscus coccineus). In its natural habitat, the plant usually is found in damp, sunny areas, hence another common name, swamp hibiscus. Given its tolerance for moisture, this plant is perfect for rain gardens, sunny ditches and areas with drainage problems. However, I’ve seen it growing fine in gardens that get little supplemental water. It has a fairly deep, thick root, so that may account for its adaptability — although, this also makes it difficult to move, once it has grown significantly. Scarlet rosemallow flowers are the typical hibiscus shape; however, they are more interesting when fully open, as the five petals separate out from one another, giving the plant another common name, Texas star. As with other hibiscus species, the blooms only stay open for one day, but they open in quick succession. At 6 to 8 inches in diameter, they make an impact at quite a distance.
Scarlet rosemallow. Photo courtesy of Mary Tucker.
The openness of the plant prevents the foliage from obscuring the blooms, and makes it an easy addition to a mixed border. There, it can mingle comfortably with other plants, and the loose, open structure of this hibiscus keeps it from overshadowing or overtaking its companions. It will bloom best with ample sun, so don’t let nearby plants shade it too much. If you prefer less airiness and more mass, plant a grouping. Each specimen will not take up much room, so they can be planted together fairly closely. Upon closer inspection of the plant, you can appreciate the elegant, deeply cut, palmate leaves, as well as the delicate pink cast on the stems and the long, dramatic stamens. An extra bonus is the attractive fall color of the leaves, which turn a lovely shade of yellow. The bloom time is another benefit, as they typically put on a show during the months of July, August and September, when many garden plants are flagging in the heat. Scarlet rosemallow’s bright red blooms attract the ruby-throated
hummingbird, making it a wonderful addition to a wildlife habitat garden. In my garden, it is planted in the bed near my bird feeder, and its loosely spaced stems provide numerous perches for songbirds as they approach the feeder. The scarlet rosemallow is slow to emerge from the ground in spring, so don’t be alarmed and think you have lost the plant. It’s a good idea to leave at least part of the stalk so you won’t accidentally harm it when installing other plants early in the growing season. I purposefully leave dried stalks when the plant dies in winter so the birds continue to have their resting places. To see scarlet rosemallow in person, visit the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden at the Cherokee County Senior Center, 1001 Univeter Road, in Canton. You will find it planted in the bog garden and the pollinator garden. If you want to grow it yourself, you typically can purchase plants or seeds at the Master Gardener plant sales at the Senior Center. The next sales will be June 18 and Sept. 17, 9 a.m. to noon.
Mary Tucker is a North Carolina native who has lived in Cherokee County for more than 25 years. She is a Lifetime Master Gardener whose special interest is gardening with native plants.
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4
Tips to
Get Your Home Summer-Ready
BY JASON WILSON
This month, summer is officially here! It’s time to get outside, soak up some sun by the pool and gather around a bonfire in the evening. While we spend much of our time outside, at the beach or even in our backyard, we also want to enjoy the benefits of summer from within our homes. Summer is a great time to spend with friends, family and your furry friends. Invest the time now to get your home ready so you are able to spend the rest of the summer with those you cherish most, creating the best memories. Whether you need a landscaper, pest control specialist or a house cleaning service, reach out to a trusted real estate expert for his or her most recommended vendors. Maximize energy efficiency. Consider replacing an older thermostat with a smart thermostat. You can program your air conditioner to kick on at the right time of day, saving you the most energy and money. Nothing is worse in the middle of summer than the air conditioner going out. Replacing HVAC filters helps remove stress from the unit, which has to fight through any dust or dander that may have built up. Doing this every 90 days is a great practice.
1.
2. Invest in pest control.
Warmer weather means bugs are back again! Summer is a good time to look for a pest control service to keep pesky bugs at a distance, allowing you to enjoy your evenings in the backyard with peace of mind. Also, make sure to keep your lawn mowed weekly to keep ticks, which like long grass, out of sight.
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3. Get ready to party.
In other words, refresh outdoor furniture cushions that have been stored away all winter or coated with pollen in the spring. Run the cushions through the dryer to get rid of dust. Clean up your grill, refill your propane tank, prepare for outdoor games and make sure your sunscreen and bug spray have not expired. And, of course, stock up on hot dogs and hamburgers or your favorite foods to be ready for cookouts.
4. Tidy up flower beds.
Take a trip to your favorite home improvement store and grab some fresh mulch and beautiful flowers, and get planting! This not only will increase curb appeal if you are in the market to sell, it also makes for a picture-perfect landscape and proud homeowner. Ursula and Associates (Jason Wilson and Ursula Butler) is a real estate team, associated with Keller Williams Realty Partners, that has specialized in Woodstock and surrounding areas since 1996.
Bill Would Curb Unneeded Growth BY CHARLICE BYRD
Something most Georgians don’t think about is the number of state agencies, authorities, commissions and departments for which we, the taxpayers, foot the bill. Most citizens can rattle off a handful of state agencies and departments. As a state representative, I interact with a few dozen on a regular basis, but, in reality, there are more than 130 of these bureaucratic outposts in Georgia. Think about that for a minute, and remember the check you wrote to the government to pay your taxes — not a pleasant thought! We know it’s easier to grow the size of government than it is to shrink it. We see it happen every session. I believe we can agree that more than 130 state agencies, authorities, commissions and departments seems like too many. A bill you might see introduced next year is the Georgia Government Accountability Act, also known as the Sunset Bill. The bill’s aim is to establish a method by which the efficiency of state government is regularly reviewed and the productivity of each agency evaluated. This is crucial to ensure state agencies, departments and other entities are held accountable for their service to the public and their responsiveness to the needs of the citizens of this state. This isn’t just to phase out unneeded and/or outdated government entities; it also is aimed at finding inefficiencies and duplication of services provided on behalf of Georgia taxpayers. If we are footing the bill, we deserve to know whether our money is being spent as intended. This is one way to closely review the workings of state government, to determine the need for efficiency and eliminate redundancies. We cannot continue to grow the state budget without first implementing performance standards and bringing more transparency to government. This type of legislation provides a vehicle for the General Assembly to do what we should be doing for our taxpayers — ensuring the government is as streamlined, economical and efficient as possible. You can reach me at my Capitol office at 404-6560213, or email me at charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov. Or write to my Capitol office (508-B Coverdell Legislative Office Building, Atlanta, GA 30334). For more in-depth details regarding the budget, visit www.facebook.com/ RepCharliceByrd. As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative.
Rep. Charlice Byrd represents District 20 in the Georgia House of Representatives. charlice.byrd@house.ga.gov.
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Got Ambling on Your Mind?
Explorimg Lewis Park and the Origins of Bells Ferry Road
D
BY THE WANDERER
I walk a lot, and, by a lot, I mean my walking mileage total last year was just more than 1,800 miles, roughly the distance from my home in Cherokee County to the Grand Canyon. About half that distance I walked alone, because, well, no one else I know likes to walk that much. I can forget just how much fun it is to stroll, to amble — to relax your pace and really take in your surroundings, instead of just rushing through them. There are, in fact, a whole lot of folks who prefer to dawdle, and there are great parks in Cherokee County that allow you to do just that, while being surrounded ? by the great outdoors. Whether you’re walking w no K with little ones with short legs and even shorter u d ea Yo attention spans, only have a half an hour to r s id ign rry in ut spare or just draw the line at a mile when it s ad Fe y, b e comes to traipsing around, you don’t have Ro ell’s ount troph B C pos e. b to relegate yourself to a sidewalk. There are e a b Co the erok places where even 30 paces will put you in the h k lac in C woods, and one of the best is Lewis Park, just north of Towne Lake off Bells Ferry Road.
Cherokee County, Georgia, 1895. Map courtesy of Library of Congress, Geography and Map Division. 50
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
At 57 acres, the park has a very nice loop trail that’s a little more than a mile long. Too much? There are cutoffs within the loop that can make it half that distance. And, there are benches along the path, so if you’re the kind of person who likes to take along a book and find a quiet place in nature to read, this is such a place. It’s easily accessible, never crowded and all wooded. You get around 200 feet of elevation change as the path wanders along the banks of a small, unnamed creek, and if you start feeling energetic, take all the cutoffs as well as the loop to get in a couple of miles. There also are pavilions for picnics, a playground for the kids and a real restroom, not just a porta-potty. Want more? Cross the street at the park entrance, and you’ll see a small unmarked trail that leads straight to Allatoona Lake, where it meets up with a shoreline trail that allows you to stretch your legs along the junction of Little River and the lake. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot an owl, hawk or a couple of deer. What’s truly delightful about Lewis Park is that you don’t have to walk far to experience the quiet beauty of nature. If you’re looking for the experience of a hike but are only up for a little ramble, Lewis Park just might be the place to go.
Ever Wondered … What is Bell’s Ferry?
While taking in your surroundings at Lewis Park, you might wonder: “How did Bells Ferry Road get its name?” If you’ve spent much time driving around the Atlanta metro area, you’ve noticed that there are almost as many streets named Ferry as there are named Peachtree — Paces Ferry Road, Johnson Ferry Road, Powers Ferry Road and, of course, Bells Ferry Road. Bells Ferry Road runs most of the length of Cherokee, connecting the Cobb County seat (Marietta) with that of Cherokee County (Canton). But was there actually a Bell’s Ferry, and was it anywhere near the current Bells Ferry Road? Who was Bell anyway? In the mid-1800s, an entire fleet of privately owned and operated ferries carried loads and travelers alike across rivers too deep to simply be forded. Their operators often set up trading posts there as well, so, in addition to providing a vital service in the days before bridges became commonplace, the ferries were responsible for establishing small commercial centers. Many people mistakenly believe that Bell’s Ferry operated along what is now Bells Ferry Road in Cherokee County, where the Ronnie Chastain Bridge crosses Little River. Indeed, there are records of a ferry in operation there in the 1830s, but it was called King’s Ferry. Cherokee court documents in 1835 show that James H. Bell operated a ferry, but it crossed the Etowah River. Records also indicate Bell owned land on both sides of the Etowah at one location, and it’s speculated that this must have been where the ferry was located. Today, this site is just north of Sixes Road, in the vicinity of BridgeMill.
Lewis Park walking trails. Photo courtesy of Cherokee Recreation and Parks.
Records further show that Bell sold the land and the ferry in June 1835. The year before, Jonathon Johnson established another ferry across the Etowah, but in January 1837, a year and a half after selling his ferry, Bell purchased Johnson’s land and ferry. This site is near Victoria Landing on Allatoona Lake. This is only speculation on my part, but the proximity of this new ferry to King’s Ferry meant that virtually the same site could connect Canton to Marietta and Cartersville, making it a much more desirable operating location. In 1855, Bell sold it to Samuel Lovinggood, who erected a toll bridge across the Etowah there. The bridge was destroyed in a flood, but Lovinggood continued to operate a ferry, just as Bell had. Both the bridge and the ferry connected Canton to Cartersville. We forget that, until the late 1940s, the Etowah River ran unfettered through Cherokee County; the damming of the Etowah to create Allatoona Lake covered the ferry site. But old Cherokee road maps still show Lovinggood (Victoria) Landing on one side of the river and Old Lovinggood Lane on the other. So, we find that while Bells Ferry Road doesn’t exactly take you across the waterway that Bell’s Ferry did, it does bring you to the location of Bell’s Ferry. In fact, it takes you to the location of both of Bell’s ferries!
The Wanderer has been a resident of Cherokee County for nearly 20 years, and constantly is learning about his community on daily walks, which totaled a little more than 1,800 miles in 2021. Send questions or comments to wanderingga@gmail.com.
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Adults – $18 | Member Discount – $15 Groups 10 or more - $13 | Senior/Student/Active Military – $15 P l ay i n g at Canton Theatre • 171 E. Main St., Canton, GA
Box Office 770-591-0282 | info@cherokeetheatre.org Cherokee Theatre Company PO Box 5885 • Canton, GA 30114 TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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What’s Happening at Your Library?
BY JOHN RODGERS
Have you started summer learning at your library yet? Book lovers will want to “seas the day” by setting sail to their local library in June and July for Sequoyah Regional Library System’s 2022 summer learning program, Oceans of Possibilities. Adults, teens and children can enjoy some sea-riously fun, no-cost programming, including performances by juggler extraordinaire Adam Boehmer, special storytimes, virtual reality games, live entertainment and more. Explore calendarwiz.com/ sequoyahreglib for the full schedule or download a digital programming guide at sequoyahregionallibrary.org/ summerlearning. “Buoys” and “gulls” of all ages are “shore” to have a fintastic time. (OK, no more puns. We promise.) So, how can you register for summer learning? Sign up on Beanstack, the library’s online portal, where you can log the books or minutes you’ve read, post reviews, set reading goals and complete challenges to earn rewards. This year, readers have the chance to win prizes each week, along with grand prizes at the end of summer! All ages can participate in challenges through the end of July. Sign up individually or as a family by downloading the free Beanstack app, visiting sequoyahregionallibrary.beanstack.org or picking up a summer learning badge book at the nearest library. “A library card opens oceans of possibilities for anyone in our community looking to explore, learn and create,” SRLS Executive Director Angela Cortellino said. “One of our favorite things about summer learning is when families realize that their 52
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Cherokee County School District students and their families enjoy an evening of crafts, games and activities at Rose Creek Public Library’s CCSD Hype Night on May 3.
public library is so much more than just books. Whether you visit us this summer to enjoy our schedule of programming, borrow a Chromebook or musical instrument from our Library of Things or check out an experience pass to save money on a family trip, we hope you think of the library as your dynamic destination for discovery.” To guarantee it’s easier than ever to experience everything your public library has to offer, SRLS is going fine-free to celebrate 2022 summer learning. From June 1 through July 31, items returned to the library will not have overdue fines! Even if you can’t find your library card, bring your ID to your library, and a staff member will be happy to update your account. New reading challenges and programming will be added all summer, so swim over to our website for the latest on happenings and partnerships. We’ll see you this summer as we explore Oceans of Possibilities! John Rodgers is the community engagement manager for the Sequoyah Regional Library System.
UPCOMING EVENTS June 4
Break out of the book club box and join the Themed Adult Book Club to discuss your book at Woodstock Public Library, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Stop by for a copy of discussion questions. Ages 17 and older are encouraged. Register online. Create a boat or other vessel, 3-4 p.m., at Rose Creek Public Library’s Lego Lab in Woodstock. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Registration is not required.
June 13
The Adult Eclectics Book Club is meeting to discuss “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by T.J. Klune, 6-7:30 p.m., in the community room at R.T. Jones Memorial Library in Canton. Register online.
June 17
Stop by Hickory Flat Public Library for Adults’ Ocean Exploration VR Experience, 3-6 p.m., to virtually interact and learn about the ocean while staying dry. Register online. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to drop in for Under the Sea Mini Golf, 2-6 p.m. at Woodstock Public Library. Registration is not required.
CHUNKY SOUP · CHILI PASTA SAUCE · BEANS CORN · CANNED Meats CANNED Pasta · Rice Ramen Noodles Peanut Butter Cereal · Oatmeal Our urgent food supply is disappearing quickly! Can you donate today?
MARIETTA · 1280 Field Pkwy. CANTON · 111 Brown Ind. Pkwy.
www.mustministries.org TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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School News David Holbrook
Marissa Migneco
Arcadian Freund
Adrian Shaffer
Pradhyumna Vasishta
Rohan Pandya
Woodstock and Etowah Celebrate Future Educators
As part of National Teacher Appreciation Week in May, high schools, including Woodstock and Etowah, held signing day events to honor graduating seniors who plan to pursue careers in education.
Etowah High: Emily Collins, Lauren Giesler, Laurel O’Brien, Sarah Mock and Ryan Lofland.
Students Place at Georgia Technology Competition Six students from Etowah, Woodstock Middle, E.T. Booth and Clark Creek placed first or third at the Georgia Student Technology Competition, which offers students in grades 3-12 the opportunity to showcase their skills through 16 categories:
• David Holbrook, Woodstock Middle, first in Mobile Apps • Marissa Migneco, Etowah, first in Graphic Design • Arcadian Freund, Clark Creek, third in Multimedia Applications
• Adrian Shaffer, E.T. Booth, third in Game Design • Pradhyumna Vasishta, E.T. Booth, third in Project Programming
Woodstock High: Victoria Giardina, Delilah Parkes, Gloria Houngblame and Casandra Brown
• Rohan Pandya, E.T. Booth, third in Graphic Design
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Prabhuram Named One of Top 21 Youth Leaders
Kiersten James
Jaiden Maddox
Bridget Utberg
Will Sumner
Seniors Honored by Cherokee Sports Hall of Fame Twelve class of 2022 graduating seniors were honored by the Cherokee County Sports Hall of Fame at the Enshrinement Banquet in May. The organization recognizes the most outstanding male and female senior athletes from each county high school. Honorees are nominated by administrators based on the outstanding athletic contributions the seniors made during their high school career. This recognition is a separate program from the Hall of Fame’s annual induction ceremony, honoring individuals who have distinguished themselves in the field of athletics in Cherokee County. Congratulations to the class of 2022 honorees! • Cherokee: Caroline Goddard, golf; Jacob Silka, wrestling. • Creekview: Maya Maldonado, lacrosse and flag football; Andrew Cory, wrestling. • Etowah: Kiersten James, softball and basketball; Jaiden Maddox, football, wrestling and track. • River Ridge: Gracie Hughes, softball; Brian Bradley, football. • Sequoyah: Delaney Harrison, swimming; Logan Webster, wrestling and football. • Woodstock: Bridget Utberg, basketball; Will Sumner, cross country and track.
Etowah rising senior Ila Prabhuram has been honored by the 21st Century Leaders nonprofit organization with its 2022 Georgia Youth Leadership Award. The annual awards recognize the “extraordinary achievements of 21 inspirational high school students from across Georgia and their commitment to leadership in their communities and schools.” In addition to exemplary academic achievement, Prabhuram’s many accolades have included her appointment for three terms of service on the State Superintendent of Schools’ Student Ila Prabhuram Advisory Board, and her selection for the Model Atlanta Regional Commission teen leadership program and Harvard University’s Making Caring Common Youth Advisory Board. She also founded a nonprofit organization, College Pathway, to assist low-income students in accessing higher education. Prabhuram started an online magazine to amplify marginalized youth voices, is a regular contributor to Scholastic Teen Magazine and has served as editor for Etowah’s school newspaper. A member of Etowah’s Model UN, National English Honor Society and Flight Club leadership program, she also volunteers for the Sequoyah Regional Library System, the Borgen Project to combat global poverty, and Village Book Builders, through which she mentors students in Kenya.
Pradhyumna Vasishta
Rohan Pandya
Hailii Hammond
Sophie Naliwajka
E.T. Booth Students Rake In Honors
E.T. Booth seventh-grader Pradhyumna Vasishta earned first place in the junior division at the Georgia Science and Engineering Fair and won a Broadcom Masters nomination. The Broadcom competition, sponsored by the Society for Science and the Public, is the nation’s premier science fair competition for middle school students. Three E.T. Booth seventh-graders also placed at the state fair: Rohan Pandya, third; Hailii Hammond, fourth; and Sophie Naliwajka, fourth.
In addition, E.T. Booth Middle School earned second place in the 2022 statewide TomeCon Reading Bowl competition. Team members Ava Bourgault, McKenzie Ho, Olivia Jackson, Audrey Kelava, Norah Luina, Lillie McFarland, Rohan Pandya, Skylee Poirrier, Eva Schwartz, Mihini Senanayake, Ashley Spina, Pradhyumna Vasishta, Luke Wright and Hailey Yager competed, lead by coaches Jamie Stahler and Amanda Graves. TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Enjoy Music(als) at Woodstock Arts! BY LIBBY WILLIAMS
We have been counting down the days, and summer is finally here! Thankfully, it looks a lot different than the past two have. Woodstock Arts has a packed lineup to fill your weeks and to answer the question, “What are we doing today?” For families, we have two musicals running this summer, “Orphie and the Book of Heroes” and family favorite “James and the Giant Peach.” This month, Woodstock Arts is proud to be the Georgia premiere of “Orphie and the Book of Heroes.” Set in the world of Greek mythology, a spunky young girl, Orphie, sets sail to save Homer — a quest that takes her from the heights of Mount Olympus to the depths of the underworld. Finishing out our season in July is “James and the Giant Peach.” This show brings the beloved Roald Dahl story to the stage, but with a couple of new twists and turns. These shows are categorized as TYA (theater for young audiences). It can be daunting to bring kids to live theater, especially if this is their first time, but our TYA shows are a great opportunity to see if they have that theater bug! TYA shows are specifically written to engage kids with fun, action-packed stories that run under an hour. All the excitement of live theater in half the time! And, don’t worry parents, you will have fun, too! Big news! We are so excited to bring back our sensoryfriendly performances for both of these summer shows. Inclusivity is something we strive for at Woodstock Arts, and we’re honored to provide sensory-friendly programming to give people an engagingLantern and safeSeries theatrical experience. The “Orphie and the Book of Heroes” sensory-friendly show will be June 11, and July 23 will be the “James and the Giant Peach” sensoryfriendly performance. And, for our music lovers, the Lantern Series continues on the Event Green this summer! We have three concerts to add to your calendar. On June 18, Haitian blues singer Paul Beaubrun will be joining us, indie pop band SubRadio will take the stage July 2, and R&B folk musician Kyshona Armstrong will perform July 16. Grab some friends, buy a table and come spend a warm summer night with us! If you find yourself wondering what to do today, Woodstock Arts has got you covered!
UNDER THE STARS
PLUS...
Libby Williams is the marketing manager for Woodstock Arts. Connect with us on social media, @woodstockgaarts, to always be the first to know about upcoming events!
NEVER MISS A BEAT!
june 8 - 22
july 13 - 27 UPCOMING:
Home Grown:
Paul Beaubrun
Artist’s From the Peach State
June 18 | Haitian Blues
June 23- August 21
Visual Arts Classes Ceramics | Painting Mixed Media
SUMMER CAMPS! REGISTRATION OPEN
WOODSTOCKARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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Around & About 8
Registration is open for Safe Sitter classes June 8 and July 21. The class is designed to teach students in grades 6-8 how to be safe when home alone. Classes will be at Northside’s Cherokee Education Center in Woodstock, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration should be completed one week before the class. Fee is $40. Contact Lana Mayfield to register: lana. mayfield@northside.com or 678-388-6401.
12
Shop locally made goods at Maker’s Mash, a pop-up shop featuring local artisans, the second Sunday of the month, 1-6 p.m., at Reformation Brewery in Woodstock. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.
15
Little River Methodist’s Vacation Bible School is back, June 15-17 from 6-8 p.m. It is a free event, and dinner is included. www.littleriverumc.info. Call 770-926-2495.
MAY
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The inaugural Charity Cornhole Tournament, benefiting Experiences Foundation and ACES Youth Home, will be at The Mill on Etowah, noon-4 p.m. To register, visit https://bit.ly/3O96lXa.
30
Join Woodstock’s Memorial Day Ceremony, 10 a.m.-noon, at The Park at City Center. Visit the Woodstock Memorial to honor veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
DJ Bingo begins at 7 p.m. Mondays at Woodstock Beer Market. Have fun, test your musical knowledge and win prizes. https://visitwoodstockga.com/events.
JUNE
1 DJ Trivia
begins at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at Woodstock Beer Market. Have fun and win prizes. https:// visitwoodstockga.com/events.
4 Muddbuggs and Music
is coming to the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater, noon-8 p.m. The event will feature crawfish, a beer garden, the Hollywood Feed Kidz Zone, music from Cowboy Mouth and more. General admission tickets are $18, in advance, and VIP tickets are $75. https://visitwoodstockga.com/event/muddbuggs-music. The Goshen Valley 5K Run/Walk, beginning at 7:30 a.m., will kick off the Upriver Festival, featuring vendors, food and more, at The Mill on Etowah. To register, visit https:// runsignup.com/Race/GA/Canton/ GoshenValleyRunWalk.
Thomas Fountain, right, will be
performing at the Canton Theatre, 7-9 p.m. Special guest Erin Kirby will kick off the show. https://bit.ly/3rlNqPi.
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TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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A prostate cancer screening will be held at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute Radiation Oncology — Cherokee in Canton. https://bit.ly/3FlClBI. To schedule an appointment, call 404-531-4444.
18
Join the Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom, 1-5 p.m. at The Mill on Etowah. The free event features artists, vendors, food and games, and speakers.
20
The fourth annual Golfing Fore! the Children tournament will be held at Eagle Watch Golf Club in Woodstock. Shotgun start is at 9 a.m. All proceeds benefit the Service League’s work for children in Cherokee County. https://serviceleague.net/fundraisers/golfing-fore-the-children.
Ancestral Treasures: 21 Historic Preservation of Family Heirlooms Join Tanzy Ward for a talk on
, 7-8 p.m., at the Cherokee County History Center in Canton. https://historycherokee.org/events.
25
Stop by Garden in the Park, featuring homegrown and handmade art, food, music, flowers, plants, recycling and more, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., at Cannon Park in downtown Canton. https://bit.ly/3tbdUnC.
JULY
2
The Independence Day Pub Crawl is 2-6 p.m. in downtown Woodstock. Crawl-goers are encouraged to visit participating restaurants, and enjoy food and beverage specials. https://visitwoodstockga.com/event-group/pub-crawls.
4
Woodstock’s 25th annual Freedom Run begins on Main St. at 7:15 a.m. woodstockfreedomrun.com. The July 4th Spectacular kicks off with the parade at 10 a.m., starting at Woodstock Elementary on Rope Mill Road and traveling down Main St. to Sam’s Club at Highway 92. After the parade, stop by The Park at City Center, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., for a festival. The day concludes with fireworks at dusk behind the Lowe’s shopping center at Hwy 92 and I-575. For traffic directions, visit www.woodstockga.gov.
THEATER
RECREATION
www.woodstockarts.org
woodstockparksandrec.com // 770-592-6000, Ext. 1955 Registration is required for all programs.
Woodstock Arts
Through June 19
Woodstock Parks and Recreation
“Stacie Rose,” a solo exhibit in the Reeves House,
Through June
June 8-22
a fun, active way to read a book and enjoy Woodstock’s trails at the same time. This month, from dawn to dusk, visit the Noonday Creek Trail to read “Walter’s Wonderful Web” by Tim Hopgood. Registration is not required.
featuring a mixture of gestural mark making, process and hard geometric lines.
“Orphie and the Book of Heroes” follows spunky and
curious Orphie and her journey to save Homer and his Book of Heroes. The new musical adventure puts a clever twist on Greek mythology. Recommended for all audiences.
June 10
iThink Improv is back and ready to get its audiences
rolling down the aisles with laughter. Recommended for ages 10-plus (content).
June 11
The Lasting Laugh is a comedy series that brings in
Atlanta-based comedians monthly, with Jessica It’s All Good as the host. Recommended for ages 12-plus (content).
June 17
In less than 3 hours, local artists will create a piece of art on the spot that will be raffled off at the end of the night. Beginning at 6 p.m. at the Reeves House, connect with artists and see the creative process in action.
June 23-Aug. 21
“Home Grown: Artists From the Peach State” is a
juried exhibit in the Reeves House, highlighting Georgia artists and their work.
June 24
On the last Friday of each month, sit under the stars and enjoy live music at Jazz Night. Tables and chairs are provided; the outdoor bar will be stocked, and music will be flowing, 6-9 p.m., on the back porch at the Reeves House.
Cherokee County School District www.cherokeek12.net/News/ccsdtheatre2122. Contact the school front office for information. Performances are at 7 p.m.
June 2-4
“Shrek the Musical” Academy Street Theatre Group performs at Cherokee High School. Tickets are $5.
TrailStory gives elementary school-age children and their families
Fridays in June
Stop by Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for a free workout during Lunch Sports. Equipment such as bocce, cornhole, disc golf challenges and spikeball will be set up throughout the park.
June 2
Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop. Learn the seven
principles of Leave No Trace, cover low-impact recreational techniques, and discover how we can all be stewards of the environment, 7 p.m., at Pavilion 1 at Dupree Park. Participants will be awarded a certificate. Cost is $5.
June 4
Essential Gardening. Join the Cherokee Master Gardeners and
the Cherokee County UGA Extension, 10 a.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road for the Daylily Basics gardening class. Cost is $5.
June 16
SKILLS — First Aid. Join the Woodstock Fire Department,
6:30 p.m., at 223 Arnold Mill Road, for practical, life-saving steps you can implement in an emergency with injury. Cost is $5.
June 18
Join Amped in the Park with Strongside, 9 a.m., for a free outdoor workout at the Northside Hospital — Cherokee Amphitheater.
Discovering Paddleboarding, 10 a.m. at 6983 Bells Ferry
Road, is led by Michael Murphy and his staff from Murph’s Surf. Participants will learn about water safety and paddleboarding basics on Allatoona Lake. Cost is $49.95. Stop by the Gazebo in the Park at City Center, 11 a.m., for a free
Storytime Live! With Buzz Lightyear.
June 25
Discovering Fishing is an introductory class, 9 a.m., at Dupree Lake in Dupree Park, designed to teach participants the basics. Equipment is provided. Cost is $5.
Cherokee Theatre Company www.cherokeetheatre.org
June 10-12, 17-19
“In the Rest Room at Rosenblooms” by Ludmilla
Bollow. Directed by Anne Gregorie. Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays at the Canton Theatre. TOWNELAKER | June 2022
59
Around & About
continued
FARMERS MARKETS
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market
is open 8:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Dec. 31. The market is located downtown, on Market Street and in Reformation Brewery’s backyard. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.
Farmers Market at River Church
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays through October at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. On Facebook.
Canton Farmers Market
MUSIC
Woodstock Summer Concert Series
The free concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Northside HospitalCherokee Amphitheater. www.woodstockconcertseries.com.
June 11: July 9: Aug. 13: Sept. 10:
Sister Hazel Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors Black Jacket Symphony — Hotel California Scotty McCreery
Lantern Series
At the Woodstock Arts Event Green; shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Check for updates at www.woodstockarts.org.
May 28: June 18: July 2: July 16:
Aditya Prakash Ensemble Paul Beaubrun Sub-Radio Kyshona Armstrong
Canton First Friday
The monthly block party, sponsored by the Canton Main Street Program, runs 6-9 p.m. in downtown Canton. www.cantonga.gov. On Facebook.
June 3:
Shot Through the Heart Ultimate Bon Jovi Experience July 1: Emerald Empire Band (Show runs until 10 p.m.) Aug. 5: Bumpin’ the Mango Sept. 2: Kinchafoonee Cowboys Oct. 7: On the Border — the Ultimate Eagles Tribute
River Rock Summer Concert Series
Bring your family, friends, lawn chair and coolers to Etowah River Park amphitheater, 6-10 p.m., for a free concert. www.cantonga.gov/events.
June 18: July 16: Aug. 27: 60
The Celebrity All Star Band Smokey Jones and the 3 Dollar Pistols Electric Avenue
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
Opens for the season June 4 in Brown Park and continues weekly, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturdays, through Oct. 15. https://bit.ly/3w3RTco.
Ball Ground Farmers & Makers Market
is every other Saturday, June 4-Aug. 20, 9 a.m.-noon at City Park in Ball Ground. On Facebook.
GENERAL
Cherokee Master Gardeners Plant Sales
Stop by the Cherokee County Senior Center, 9 a.m.-noon, for a variety of plants, garden accessories, expert advice and more. https://cherokeemastergardeners.com. On Facebook.
June 18: Sept. 17:
Summer Sale Fall Sale
Family Fun Nights
Visit downtown Woodstock, 5-9 p.m. for themed activities, a costume contest, trivia contest and a free movie on the Woodstock Arts Event Green. https://visitwoodstockga.com/ events.
June 16: July 21:
Super Hero Night
Harry Potter Night
Wellness Wednesdays
Join Northside Hospital experts for a virtual health presentation every Wednesday at noon. Visit www.northside.com/ community-wellness/classes-events for registration.
June 1: Dr. Alyssa Liguori, North Georgia OB-GYN Specialists June 8: Kenny Haney, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute June 15: Dr. Jada Reese, Northside Interventional Pain and Spine June 22: Dr. Craig R. McCready, Northside Duluth Surgical Group June 29: Dr. Natanel Leibu, Laureate Medical Group
The Value of #CCSDcares Cultivating the Achievement, Resiliency and the Empowerment of Students BY BARBARA P. JACOBY
The Cherokee County School Board and superintendent of schools, like their counterparts across the nation, during the 2018-19 school year recognized an alarming trend among students: rising rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideations and suicide. They knew, as people who care deeply about all students, that our school district needed to respond and to respond quickly. They understood that, although great work had been accomplished to improve our schools and school district, more must be done. From the drafting of their community-based Blueprint, strategic five-year plan, which was embedded with not only language, but also action steps to ensure students feel safe, welcomed, included and valued, came the school board’s support of a new initiative, now known as #CCSDcares. A committee made up of stakeholders, including students, parents, community partners, teachers, support staff and school and district leaders, reviewed local data and national expertise to craft recommendations focused on better meeting the social, emotional and mental health needs of students, and fostering a more welcoming school culture. Their work also addressed CCSD employees’ needs, with the understanding that their well-being directly impacts their ability to successfully serve students. The recommendations were presented to the school board in the summer of 2019. They were numerous, with specific and broad goals ranging from identifying a staff person to lead these initiatives to redefining counselor responsibilities to allow more focus on counseling to improving student strengths in self-awareness, social awareness, responsible decision-making, selfmanagement and relationship skills. The school board’s initial investments included appointing a program director (a role now held by Ben
Lester, a longtime educator and past Teasley Middle School principal), the hiring of the school district’s first two mental health counselors and training staff to better identity and refer to these counselors any students showing signs or risk of depression, self-harm or suicidal ideations. The school district developed a system for schools to identify students most at risk of self-harm or suicide. This system provides at-risk students with counseling support, monitors their well-being and ensures they feel safe and supported at school … and that they and their parents or guardians have access to community resources, including mental health counseling. Since the initiative began, it has expanded to include bringing recently retired top educators in to work part-time with the mental health counselors and school counselors in developing #CCSDcares curriculum unique to our school district (this curriculum is posted on the CCSD website at www.cherokeek12.net/ Content/ccsdcares) and a districtwide employee wellness committee. This summer, our staff will develop a survey unique to our school district to gauge students’ needs, specifically in regard to improving school-related skills like resiliency; this survey will replace the vendor-created survey used in the past. Over the past three school years, #CCSDcares has saved student lives and made important and lasting positive impacts on students, employees and families, thanks to the school board’s dedication to innovation and leadership to best serve our community’s children.
Barbara P. Jacoby serves as chief communications officer for the Cherokee County School District, and is a CCSD parent with four children.
TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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This wonderful publication is brought to you by these local businesses. When using our advertisers’ services, please let them know you found out about them from the TowneLaker magazine!
Advertisers June 2022
ACCOUNTING & TAXES Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
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ANIMAL/PET SERVICES Animal Hospital of Towne Lake 770-591-9500 www.townelakevets.com
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FITNESS/HEALTH
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Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
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CREDIT UNIONS
Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
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Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
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HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR
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Ribley Family Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
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Cherokee Theatre Company 770-591-0282 www.cherokeetheatre.org
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CHIROPRACTIC
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BUSINESS SUPPORT
HAIR SALON
Eastridge Plumbing 770-516-2977 www.eastridgeplumbing.com
EVENTS/ENTERTAINMENT
AUTOMOTIVE Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
(Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics & Pediatric)
Woodstock Funeral Home 27 and Cremations 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com
Poole Funeral Home 678-932-2097 www.poolefuneralhome.net
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Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
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INSURANCE Alfa Insurance Jeff Beachler, 770-558-1612 www.alfainsurance.com
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LAND AUCTION
Digestive Healthcare of Georgia Woodstock: 404-425-5570 Marietta: 404-425-5570 Jasper: 706-253-7340 Ellijay:706-276-7350 www.digestivehealthcare.net
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Northside Hospital www.northside.com
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LANDSCAPING Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
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OPTOMETRY Georgia Eye Partners www.gaeyepartners.com
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Pearle Vision 770-790-0000 www.pearlevision.com
31
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES AbbyCare Inside Cover 404-549-6886 www.iloveabbycare.com Cherokee Women’s Health 47 Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
Atlanta Communities, Shonna Sherrill 5 C: 678-634-5581 O: 770-240-2005 www.shonnasherrill.com Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
35
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 17 Woodstock/South Cherokee office 770-517-2150 www.woodstock.bhhsgeorgia.com Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com
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RE/MAX Town & Country Sarah Terrell 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
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RETAILERS
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES
Absolute Auction 888-861-0999 www.internationalauctionllc.com
Prosperity Home Mortgage 404-895-0641 www.lisaeifert.phmloans.com
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Keller Williams, Ursula & Assoc. Back Cover Direct: 678-569-4044 Broker: 678-494-0644 www.townelakeexperts.com
Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net
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The Artists Next Door, LLC www.theartistnextdoorllc.com
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SENIOR SERVICES St. George Village 678-987-0409 www.stgeorgevillage.org
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SPECIALTY FOOD/CATERING The Butcher and A Baker 770-517-2225 Go. Fo. Fa. Heat and Eat Meals 770-285-3600 www.gofofa.com
9 27
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS MUST Ministries www.mustministries.org
53
Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
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We have a place in the homes of our community.
For advertising rates and information | Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 | jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com
AROUNDABOUTLOCALMEDIA.COM TOWNELAKER | June 2022
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