7 15 sixes living webfinal by Aroundabout Local Media, Inc.

Quality pediatric care, close to home.

WellStar

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WellStar Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

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Pediatric Anesthesia

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Lab Services & EEG

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Specialized Nursing

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Pediatric Physical Therapy

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After Hours Care

Pediatric Imaging with Pediatric Radiology

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WellStar Medical Group, KenMar Pediatrics

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Additional Pediatric Specialties Including Orthopedics, GI and Neurology

For more information, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).

For more information, please call 678-594-PEDS (7337).

Pediatric Emergency Care •

Available at WellStar Cobb, Douglas, Kennestone and Paulding hospitals

For more information, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).

wellstar.org/forchildren Inpatient pediatric services will open at WellStar Kennestone Hospital in July 2015

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

July

2015 Volume 3, Issue 4

13 A Lifeguardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perspective Recognizing risky behavior, signs of drowning that may not be obvious.

14 Playdates at the Parks

Finish the summer by exploring Cherokee, one park at a time.

22 Rooted in Love

Nonprofit operates with a focus on feeding the hungry and the homeless.

23 Acting 101

A few tips on starting a career as an extra or getting bigger roles.

26 Helping Seniors

Volunteer Aging Council serves senior citizens in need in Cherokee County.

30 Changing Lives

Woodstock youth committed to make a difference in battle against ALS.

32 New Life for 92

Plan includes streamlining traffic, making the highway pedestrian friendly.

34 Pomp and Circumstance

A photo display celebrates our proud graduates.

13 Contributing Writers Chantel Adams Don Akridge Kyle Bennett Siobhan Brumbelow Amy Cobb Rick Coughlin Mitchell Grexa Cara Gordon Brandi Hackett Delia Halverson Patti Hart Dr. Jan Henriques Toni Ann Isles Leisa Jennings Kurt & Sheila Johnson Marcine Johnson

24 38 57 56 25 39 46 13 26 27 32 44 48 41 31 26

In Every Issue Stefanie Joyner Sean Kaufman Mark Kissel Dr. Mike Litrel Rob Macmillan Rev. Joe McKechnie Dr. Scott Merritt Dr, John Moss Bryan Reynolds Susan Schulz Jessica Leigh Smith Jodi Tiberio Scot Turner Lynne Watts

21 30 51 35 29 52 42 43 14 22 23 18 21 33

Around Sixes

Community News

Birthdays

Community Calendar

Everyday Angels

School News

Faith

Parking Map

Woodstock Dining Guide 55 Greenprints Trail Map

Recent Home Sales

Advertisers Index

wwwSixesLivingMagazine.com

36 & 37 On the Cover

What A Dog Photo by Kim Bates 2

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

ADVERTISING Market Manager Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com

Join the Sixes Living magazine fan page

www.facebook.com/SixesLivingMagazine

www.twitter.com/SixesLivingMag

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

AROUND SIXES The People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Sixes/Holly Springs What’s New

In response to the many requests from our valued readers and advertisers, the staff at AroundAbout Local Media is proud to announce an increase in the Sixes Living coverage area, and circulation, to include the areas of Reinhardt Parkway and Downtown Canton. Dr. Latif Dharamsi has joined Northwest ENT and Allergy Center and will see patients in the Canton and Cartersville locations. Dr. Dharamsi specilizes in allergy, nasal surgery, endoscopic sinus surgery, chronic ear surgery and pediatric otolaryngology. He received his undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University, Master’s in Biophysics and Physiology from Georgetown University, and returned to Vanderbilt for Medical School and Residency in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck surgery. To make an appointment, call 770-427-0368. www.nw-ent.com The Cherokee County Animal Shelter is partnering with Finding Rover, a free service, social media-based app that uses facial recognition to help reunite lost dogs with their owners and enables people to see found animals that are in their care. To participate, simply download the app to your Apple or Android device or access the app www.FindingRover.com. Seventh graders are now required to have the tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap), and meningococcal (meningitis) vaccines before entering school. Children born on or after Jan.1, 2002 who are attending seventh grade and new entrants into Georgia schools in grades eight through 12 must have received one dose of the Tdap vaccine and one dose of the meningococcal vaccine. Shots are available at public health departments in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield counties. For more information about this and all school required immunizations, visit the Georgia Department of Public Health online at http://dph.georgia.gov/schools-andchildcare.

Who’s Leaving

Janet Read, chair of the Cherokee County School Board, has resigned her seat on the board to take a position with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta as the community liaison for Cherokee County. Read was first elected to the board in 2004 to Post 4 (Towne Lake/Woodstock area).

What’s Filmable

Officials at the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) are asking local residents to help them identify potential filming locations that might catch the eye of producers of the next big movie or television project. Do you know of a house that looks haunted or a valley that looks like a fairytale scene when the light hits it the right way? Think outside the box. 4

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Scouts look for everything from old convenient stores to grand mansions or, in the case of “Mena” recently filmed in Ball Ground, an entire city. A scout for “Mena” found the city of Ball Ground through the Reel Scout database, and COED officials would like to add to that listing. “Film is one of COED’s target industry sectors. When a project chooses Cherokee, it generates income for local business and increases awareness of our incredible county,” explains Marshall Day, COED Chairman. If you are interested in COED adding your property Ball Ground business owners Debbie Ley, owner to the Camera Ready Reel Scout of Something New for I Do, Shirley Padgett with Green Hen Antiques and Kelly Berry with database, email Kelly Anne Photography met “Mena” star Tom cameraready@ Cruise. cherokeega.org with the subject line “Camera Ready Location” and include a picture and short description of your property. COED will respond with next steps.

Ribbon Cuttings

Stars and Strikes Getaway-n-Play, 10010 Highway 92, Suite 180, the former home of Ingles.

Cherokee Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cuttings Northside Riverstone Imaging, 720 Transit Avenue, Building 200, Suite 201, Canton. www.northside.com Enlightenment Capital Funding, LLC, 755 Starmist Court, Kennesaw. www.enlightenmentcapitalfunding.com Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 900, Suite 200, Woodstock. www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com

Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Sixes Living. She has lived in Cherokee County for 28 years. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com

OB/GYN Offices Located in Canton and Towne Lake

Get back to living your life.

For heavy periods, cramps, bladder leakage, fatigue, mood swings, pelvic discomfort and vaginal rejuvenation, we can help. Contact us for simple solutions that will get your life back on track.

770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com www.facebook.com/cherokeewomenshealth SIXES LIVING | July 2015

OUR TEAM. YOUR NEIGHBORS.

Sixes Living Sixes Living, a publication of AroundAbout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Sixes, Holly Springs and Hickory Flat areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 16,500 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 15,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 1,300 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. Sixes Living welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month.

From left Michelle McCulloch, Patty Ponder, Jon and Karen Flaig, Candi Hannigan, Denise Griffin, Laura Latchford, Jackie Loudin and Christie Deese.

You might recognize our faces — we’ve raised our families in Cherokee County, waited with you in the grocery lines, cheered together for our children at the ball fields or chorus concerts. Our publications have been a part of this community since 1996 and we look forward to many more years of serving Sixes and surrounding areas. We are proud to be part of an experienced team of professionals that is committed to delivering a quality publication to your mailbox each month. Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of your lives!

AroundAbout Local Media Team Publishers Karen and Jon Flaig ALM President Patty Ponder Patty@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3322 Controller Denise Griffin Denise@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3315 Market Manager Christie Deese Christie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3324

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Executive Editor Candi Hannigan Candi@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3309 Assistant Editor Jackie Loudin Jackie@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3318 Art Director Michelle McCulloch Michelle@AroundAboutMagazines.com 770-615-3307 Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundAboutMagazines.com

Yearly subscriptions are available for $24. Send a check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and the publisher makes no claims about the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. Sixes Living 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 2015. Sixes Living

PMB 380 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock, GA 30189

For Advertising: Christie Deese, 770-615-3324 Website: www.sixeslivingmagazine.com Powered by

Volume 3, Issue 4

Farmers Markets Downtown Woodstock: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays and 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays, on Market Street. River Church: 2-6 p.m. Tuesdays, at 2335 Sixes Road, Canton. Waleska: 3-7 p.m. Thursdays, at Reinhardt University at the corner of Highway 108 and Highway 140. Canton: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, at Cannon Park. Acworth: 7-11 a.m. Fridays, at Acworth First Baptist, 4583 Church Street. Jasper: 7:30 a.m.-noon Saturdays, at the Park and Ride lot at Lee Newton Park on Highway 53. Marietta Square: 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market at City Hall: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, 38 Hill Street. Sweet Apple: 3-7 p.m. Thursdays, at World Harvest Church, 320 Hardscrabble Road.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS Cobb EMC Sponsors Recognition of Retired Educators

Receiving awards from the American Legion Post were (front row, from left) Michael Priest, Stephanie Barton, Michelle Ice, Scott Coppola, Capt. Kevin Lanier and Raymond Rollins, commander of the American Legion Post. (Back row, from left) Josiah Gnanamuttu, James Laughlin and Chris Ginn.

The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce education committee, in partnership with Cobb EMC, recognized retiring educators from the Cherokee County School District by donating funds to the Sequoyah Regional Library System. Books will be bought for all five library branches located around the county, and each book will include a label recognizing all faculty, staff and administrators who retired during the 2014-2015 school year. Each retiree will receive notification that a book is being donated in his or her honor.

American Legion Post Honors Local Firefighters Thomas M. Brady Post #45 of the American Legion in Canton honored several firefighters and staff members with Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services during the annual Community Service Awards Banquet. Awards given this year: Battalion 1 Firefighter Award – James Laughlin; Battalion 2 Firefighter Award – Capt. Kevin Lanier; Battalion 3 Firefighter Award – Chris Ginn; Volunteer Firefighter Award – Michelle Ice; EMS Employee of the Year Award – Scott Coppola; Fire Administration Award – Michael Priest; Special Operations Award – Todd Weidman, and Explorer of the Year Award - Josiah Gnanamuttu. Stephanie Barton received the Cherokee County E-9-1-1 employee of the year award.

Collection for Georgia’s Homeless Vets The 4th annual Stand Up for Stand Down toiletry drive, which benefits Georgia’s homeless veterans, will take place July 4-Sept. 11, with collection point in Cherokee County at the Georgia Cancer Specialists office, located at 228 Riverstone Drive in Canton. Travel or sample-sized toiletry and personal care items are needed including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hand sanitizer, combs/brushes, body wash/soap, shampoo and conditioner, lotion and feminine hygiene products. Comfort bags filled with toiletries will be given to veterans. The items will be given to veterans who attend the Atlanta VA Medical Center’s annual “Stand Down” event in October. The event’s sponsors are the metro area Pilot International Clubs and Georgia Cancer Specialists, which is affiliated with the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. “Stand Down” is a military term that refers to the time when troops are brought back from the battlefield for rest and recuperation. The Atlanta Veterans Administration’s Stand Down event provides medical exams and other services, to help homeless Veterans get back on their feet. More than 850 homeless veterans were served at the 2014 event. For more details, call 770-864-5347, email SU4SD@yahoo.com or visit www.facebook.com/SU4SD. 8

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Pam Carnes, president/CEO of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce with Anita Summers, director of the Sequoyah Regional Library System, as she receives the donation for books from Mark Goddard and Meredith Zonsius of Cobb EMC.

Trolley Stops Added for Summer The Woodstock Trolley summer schedule and route features stops added at the Woodstock Public Library and Woodstock Community Church on Rope Mill Road. The trolley runs 5-10 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2-10 p.m. Saturdays and 2-6 p.m. Sundays. For the complete route and scedule, visit www.downtownwoodstock.org/ trolley/.

Training Offered by Children’s Center The Anna Crawford Children’s Center is providing a Darkness to Light 2.0: Stewards of Children training at no cost for adults in the Cherokee County area. The training will take place 6:30-9 p.m. July 8 at the center, 9870 Highway 92, Suite 200, Woodstock. Stewards of Children is the only evidence-based child sexual abuse prevention training proven effective in educating adults to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Advance registration is recommended because space is limited. For more details or to register, contact Brittany Anderson at brittanyb@cherokeechildadvocates.org or 678-5046388, ext. 102.

We salute the “men & women who protect our country.”

medassoc.com Two Convenient Locations: 470 Valley Drive, Suite 200 Ball Ground, GA 30107 (770) 737-2770

320 Hospital Road Canton, GA 30114 (770) 479-5535 SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

YOUR LOCAL NEWS

Saluting Cherokee’s Rising Stars

The rising stars are (first row, from left) Meagan Biello, teacher at Creekview High School; Matt McClain, owner of The McClain Agency/Nationwide Insurance; Ben Thacker, retail sales specialist with LGE Community Credit Union; Matthew Thomas, economic development manager for the City of Canton. Second row, (from left): Paul Ghanouni, owner and founder of Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm; David Pitts, operations support coordinator/customer satisfaction at Georgia Power Co.; Kryss Roch, assistant solicitor general in the Cherokee County Solicitor General’s Office; and J. Mark Smith, principal of Woodstock High School. Not pictured: Adam Smith, commercial banker with Bank of North Georgia; and Kyle Wallace, partner/attorney at Alston & Bird, LLP.

The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce recently recognized the 2015 group of Cherokee County’s Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to Watch. The Top 10 in 10 initiative is designed to cultivate and showcase exceptional Cherokee County young professionals, and recognize residents under age 40 who are considered to be up and coming leaders over the next 10 years, said Pam Carnes, Chamber president and CEO. “Far more than 10 nominees were submitted. Each application was carefully reviewed by a judging panel that found this to be no simple task,” said Chamber Board Chairman Jeff Rusbridge with Dyer & Rusbridge PC. Judging criteria included past professional achievements and awards, and five- to 10-year professional goals, as well as volunteer and community activities. Besides local recognition, the winners have been nominated for Georgia Trend magazine’s 40 Under 40 recognition.

Elm Street Cultural Arts Village Continues to Grow Phase two of the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village development is underway, with the launch of the Revive the Reeves campaign. The Reeves house, built in 1897, is on Elm Street in downtown Woodstock and will be renovated and built out to become home to an art gallery, studios, computer lab, instructional space, event space and catering kitchen. The work is being funded in part by a brick campaign that allows individuals or groups to purchase a commemorative The Reeves House was built in 1897. brick for $150. “We really feel that this is a community effort, and the brick campaign is a great way to facilitate that as well as to create a permanent marker of each contribution,” said Ann Litrel, Elm Street board member. Organizations and corporations can participate as well. Within a week of launching Revive the Reeves, the campaign had raised just under 10 percent, with the Woodstock Rotary and Towne Lake Optimist clubs committing to make larger contributions. Pledges and/or contributions for bricks can be made through www.revivethereeves.org or at the Elm Street information tent at various events throughout Woodstock, such as the Farmers Market, City Concerts and Friday Night Live.

Woodstock Organization Awards Scholarship Woodstock Chapter BI of P.E.O., an international Philanthropic Education Organization, recently presented Laramie McKenna Smith with the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship Award for the 2015-2016 academic year. Recommended by Chapter BI, Laramie, a homeschooled student and daughter of Eric and Donna Smith of Milton, was presented with her award at a ceremony in her church, Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church in Marietta. She has been accepted to Emory University, where she plans to study the classics and international business beginning this fall. For additional information on the P.E.O. STAR Fr. Paul Lundberg, Laramie Smith and Linda Lopos, president of P.E.O. Chapter BI of Woodstock. Scholarship, visit www.peointernational.org. 10

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Let the Greenest City Win The fourth annual Mayors’ Recycling Challenge is underway in Cherokee County. This initiative, created by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Going Green Committee, is aimed at sparking continued awareness of community recycling while also spurring a little friendly competition among the cities involved. The initiative, which started June 1 and ends July 31, encourages Cherokee cities to see which one can collect the most recycling. Awards will be given for most pounds of recycling collected overall and per capita. North Metro Waste and Waste Management are providing recycling containers to participating cities and tracking each city’s weigh slips, as well as tracking all curbside recycling within the city. For details, call 770-345-0400 or visit www.CherokeeChamber.com.

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Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Northside Hospital Cancer Institute’s physicians are leaders in diagnosing and treating melanoma.

ith passions for both research and clinical care, surgical oncologist and melanoma expert Dr. Jonathan H. Lee welcomed the challenge of building a comprehensive melanoma program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Today, the Melanoma & Sarcoma Program is a fastgrowing service that has been embraced by Atlanta and, now, across Georgia. “Melanoma is a shocking diagnosis,” says Dr. Lee. “It means tough decisions and a demand for leading-edge, full-spectrum care. One of our goals is to relieve as much of the burden for the patient and family as we can, while making the continuum of care seamless.”

A Chain of Care As medical director of the program, Dr. Lee credits the strength and

of excellence where the best resources are tapped. Continuity of care between our program and the referring physician means that we have built a chain of care where every link is as important as the next. “Nothing is more important than achieving healing and peace of mind for our patients.”

Hub for Research commitment of Northside Hospital, the patient-centered focus of a multidisciplinary team, and a superb administrative staff that cares for patients efficiently and compassionately. Dr. Lee also notes the solid support from medical colleagues in the community: “Their patients have access to screenings, education, and a program

• Pathologic diagnosis of skin cancer and soft tissue tumors

A Dedicated Team of Experts to Meet Your needs

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The Melanoma & Sarcoma Program at Northside Hospital has developed opportunities for participation in clinical trials and leading-edge research—meaning even greater access to emerging treatment options and technology. “We have expanded our clinical trial sites so that more patients can participate in locations closer to their homes,” says Dr. Lee.

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northside.com/melanoma

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

Celebrations!

Berlin Everly

Happy 2nd Birthday! Love you more than there are stars in the sky. Mommy and Daddy

The Lodge at BridgeMill

Celebrating July birthdays are (from left) Doris Hill, Helen Hall, Rose Turanin, Lois Frank, JoAnne Blount, Diana Crick, RoseAnn Swanson and Don Hall. Not pictured: Eartha Alston, Betty Chester, Barbara Burdett, Gordon Reagan, Hannelore Lucas, Shirley Kirsch, David Townand and Bill Melfi.

Jaylynn Recknagel

Age 8 on July 31 Happy Birthday JJ! We love you! Mom, Dad, RJ and Madison

Ashlyn Reese Glattli

Happy 9th Birthday! We Love You So Much! Daddy, Momma, Madison and Aiden

Joe Borden

Age 61 on July 5 Happy Birthday to the greatest husband, daddy, and pop! Love, Kathy, Michelle & Nick, Xavier, and baby Novalee

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Joe Frank Borden

Age 91 on July 19 Happy Birthday Papa-San! Your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren love you so very much! Love, Joe & Kathy, Michelle & Nick, Xavier and baby Novalee

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Candi@ AroundAboutMagazines.com August deadline is July 10. Please specify Sixes Living.

How to Save Your Child The Lifeguard’s Perspective BY CARA GORDON, AQUATICS COORDINATOR FOR THE CHEROKEE COUNTY AQUATIC CENTER

The pool is a fun place for families to spend their summer days, but with drowning being the No. 2 cause of accidental death, we need to work together to end this problem. Lifeguards are trained to recognize risky behaviors and recognize drowning victims in the water, but we also want to ask parents to join us in actively supervising their children while in and around the pool. Often, an active drowning victim who has his or her head above water is unable to call out for help and is usually only able to get enough air to breathe, which leaves no breath for calling out for help. Drowning is often silent. Below are a few indicators that lifeguards are looking for and are asking parents to be aware of as well. Risky Behaviors • A child under the age of 5 without a parent in the water with him or her. • A child wearing water wings, using a noodle/pool float, or wearing the wrong size life jacket. • A child bobbing up and down in water over his or her head. • Children playing breath-holding games. • Children diving into shallow water.

Absence of a Lifeguard We highly recommend getting trained in basic water rescue or taking a lifeguard training course. The rule of thumb with assisting an active drowning victim if you are not trained for in-water rescue is “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go.” An active drowning victim has the potential to bring you down with him or her if you enter the water to assist. Most pools have lifesaving devices that you can use to throw to the victim Kim Whatley, manager, and Cara or use to reach out Gordon, coordinator, of the Cherokee to the victim. County Aquatic Utilize these Center. before you consider putting yourself in danger as well.

What Drowning May Look Like • Head above water, splashing, but unable to make forward progress. • A young child that is face down, unable to lift his or her head for a breath. • A child who is vertical in the water, trying to keep his or her mouth above water. The child’s arms might be out to the sides, pressing downward for support. Once children lose the fight to stay above water they might continue to struggle until they pass out. • A person who dives in and does not resurface. Note: not all drownings look the same. If you think something is wrong, offer help. It is better to be safe than sorry. How to Help in the Hunter Jones, lifeguard.

Lifeguarding Classes Water Safety Instructor (swim lesson instructor certification) July 13-16, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Junior Lifeguarding July 27-30, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Lifeguard Training July 6-9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 18, 19, 25 and 26

(9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. Sundays)

Aug. 15, 16, 22 and 23

(9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and noon-6 p.m. Sundays)

For details on these and a list of swim lessons, visit www.crpa.net. SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

Mapping Out Summer Playdates, Disc Golf, Inline Skating, Hiking, Water Slide May Be in a Park Near You BY BRYAN REYNOLDS, DIRECTOR OF CHEROKEE RECREATION & PARKS AGENCY

Cherokee County is a unique blend of suburban living and rural communities where more than 235,000 Georgians call home. With landscape as diverse as its inhabitants, the county covers more than 430 square miles, starting in the foothills of the Appalachians and stretching southward, toward metro Atlanta. Within Cherokee’s borders are the Etowah River, Little River and Lake Allatoona. It is a great place to live, work and play. At Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency (CRPA), our job is to make Cherokee a better place to play. Our mission is to serve you by enhancing your quality of life, promoting healthy lifestyles, and maintaining an active community through a diverse system of public parks and recreational programs. Our county’s park system currently includes 22 locations ranging from three acres to more than 540 acres, including: • Cherokee County Aquatic Center, with indoor 50-meter competition pool and 25-yard instructional therapy pool, as well as a 7,900-square-foot outdoor leisure pool area • Recreation Center with basketball court, inline hockey rink • Union Hill Community Center, a former schoolhouse that functions as community center and banquet hall • 32 baseball/softballdiamonds • 24 athletic fields • 20 tennis courts • 17 playgrounds • 34 miles of trails

• 33 picnic areas/pavilions • 2 boat ramps • A disc golf course • An inline hockey rink CRPA also offers a wide variety of recreation programming, including youth and adult athletics, aquatics, special events, camps, instructional programs, programs for active adults and therapeutic recreation. We also partner with other organizations in the community, to expand Cherokee’s recreation opportunities even further. Scheduled for construction later this year are two new parks, adding more leisure opportunities to the county. In the southwest portion of Cherokee, on Kellogg Creek Road near Victory Drive, Patriots Park will include an adapteduse baseball field, regulation baseball fields, a playground, walking track and dog park. Cherokee Veterans Park, to be built on Highway 20 near Water Tank Road in northeast Cherokee, will include athletic fields, a playground, walking trails and a skate park. For more information about the many parks and programs available through CRPA, call 770-924-7768 or visit www.crpa.net.

Photos courtesy of Rachel Nipp

Playing at Barnett Park are Camdyn Barnes and Finley Malcolm, enjoying their summer break from classes at Indian Knoll Elementary. 14

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

One Cherokee County Park At A Time

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SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Miles

Community

Park-Hopping through the Cities

Holly Springs

Provides recreational and leisure opportunities for the whole family. The city offers playgrounds, walking trails, a ball field and a picnic pavilion. 770-345-5536. www.hollyspringsga.us.

• Barrett Park: Holly Springs’ first major recreational

area features a playground and a walking trail, which meanders through a scenic natural area. The 13-acre park is located on Park Lane, just off Hickory Road across from Holly Springs Elementary School.

• JC Mullins Park: Includes a regulation-sized

baseball field that is home to several teams. Surrounding the ball field is a walking trail, tot lot and picnic pavilion. Located off Holly Springs Parkway behind the Crossroads School.

• J.B. Owens Park: Named

for the late James Baxter “J.B.” Owens, the last agent at the city’s historic train depot. The 33-acre park, which should be complete this summer, will feature a playground, a pavilion for public use, natural and concrete trails and an open play field. Located on Hickory Road near Harmony on the Lakes subdivision.

Canton

Offers events in area parks to bring the community together, inspire physical activity, social growth and create pride in the city. Parks are open daily 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 770-704-1500. www.canton-georgia.com.

• Boling Park: Includes a gravel walking track with

exercise stations, tennis courts, three baseball/softball fields, outdoor basketball court, playground area, pavilion available for rental, picnic areas, soccer fields, handball/racquetball courts, hiking trail and restroom facilities. On Marietta Highway near Cherokee High.

• Brown Park: Playground area and toddler swings, picnic tables and gazebo on East Marietta Street.

• Burge Park: Features basketball court, swings and slide. On Burge Street.

• Cannon Park: Gazebo and benches in the center of historic downtown.

• Etowah River Park: Located at 600 Brown

Industrial Parkway Facilities include rectangular field for athletic activities, 1/2 mile walking track, canoe/kayak

Cannon Park.

launch, bridge crossing over Etowah River, amphitheater available for rentals, pavilion available for rentals, playground area, restroom facilities and concessions.

• Harmon Park: Two baseball/softball fields, batting cages, restroom facilities and concessions.

• Heritage Park: Multipurpose path in downtown Canton.

• McCanless Park: On Muriel Street. Includes picnic pavilions and a small building.

• Paw Park: Dog park with separate areas for large dogs and small dogs to run and play. 135 Juniper St.

• Reservoir Park: Boat/canoe/kayak launch. Located

near the intersections of Bluffs Parkway and Fate Conn Road.

Woodstock

Parks and Recreation Department was awarded Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) accreditation in October 2013. www.woodstockga.gov.

• The Park at City Center: In downtown

• Springfield Park: A heavily shaded facility just

• Dupree Park: Located on Neese Road south of

• Olde Rope Mill Park: At the end of Rope Mill

• Dobbs Road Park: Off Main Street, just east of

• Woofstock Park: Dog park on Dupree Road with large and small breed off-leash areas, shade structures, fountains and benches.

Woodstock, features a gazebo, benches, a Woodstock War Memorial and park fountain.

Arnold Mill Road, the park has a large playground, restrooms, four tennis courts, two basketball courts, 1/4 mile walking trail, a fishing pond and two park pavilions.

Chattahoochee Technical College. The park features a 1/4 mile walking trail, park benches and a community garden.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

north of Highway 92 on Springfield Drive with picnic tables, benches and a small playground. Road, the area features multiple mountain bike and multiuse trails, park benches, picnic tables, park pavilion with grill and a scenic overlook/ fishing platform.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

A Time for Self Before Serving Others BY JODI TIBERIO

Recently I met Sydney, who was preparing for her July departure for a year-long mission trip called The World Race. Her adventure is taking her to 11 countries, where she hopes to spread love and share hope with underprivileged and impoverished people. I asked her why she wanted to leave the comforts of home and take on this journey and she told me that when she was 8 years old she went on a mission trip to Jamaica. Since that time, she has known that her journey in life would include making a difference for people living in poverty and brokenness in the world. “I am simply doing what I am called to do,” she said. As a college graduate and a true natural beauty, Sydney does not put a lot of effort into her daily look. She is adventurous and loves the outdoors. Her everyday style includes tank tops, athletic pants and Teva sandals. As she began preparing for her international journey, she decided that she wanted a new and fresh look. Brooklynn’s was the perfect place for Sydney to get a trendy new outfit to ramp up her style. We wanted to find Sydney a versatile outfit that worked with her bohemian spirit. Brooklynn’s offers something for everyone, ranging from preppy to boho chic to country. After learning about Sydney’s upcoming adventure, we selected a fun and versatile maxi skirt. We easily found a few tops to coordinate, but our favorite was the cropped white lace swing top. These are trendy and fun, and will look great with shorts, jeans, palazzo pants and more. We completed the look with accessories that really pop. Colorful bangle bracelets, a matching necklace and, of course, a fun headband. With our buy two, get one free accessories, it is easy to get these “festival fashions” to create a fun look at a great price. The team at Salon and Spa Venèssa created a hairstyle that will be easy for her to maintain. Her thick brown hair has a natural wave and tends to get frizzy, so she will need to pull her hair up away from her face as she travels. Stylist Megan Wood layered Sydney’s hair to enhance the natural wave and reduced the weight with layering and face framing. Since she won’t be able to color her hair on her trip, she needed a treatment that would blend and grow out naturally. Sydney wanted caramel-blonde, honeytoned highlights. Megan chose a Balayage technique for a natural highlighted look. Before styling her hair, Megan used Aveda’s Be Curly products to reduce frizz and to make her natural curl pattern soft and shiny. We also suggested 18

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Sydney use a new CoWash shampoo that will condition her hair and reduce frizz while enhancing her natural shine. We hope Sydney‘s new look will give her the ease she is looking for as she fulfills her mission to make a difference in the world. We wish Sydney all the best on her yearlong journey!

Jodi Tiberio owns Branches and Brooklynn’s boutiques. Contact Jodi at jodi@tiberioretail.com.

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SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

Out & About Through Aug. 12

Members’ Art Show 2015 at the Cherokee Arts Center, an exhibition of art by members of Cherokee Arts Center, will be on display 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. Free and open to the public. Art will be available for purchase. Open reception set for 6-8 p.m. Aug. 7.

July 8

CPR/AED and First Aid Training will be offered 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce terrace level. Class is part of the chamber’s outreach programs. Must be age 14 to be certified. Cost is $66. RSVP to Amber@CherokeeChamber. com or call 770-345-0040.

July 18

Movies in the Park in Canton’s Brown Park will feature DreamWork’s “Home” on July 18 and “Paddington” on Aug. 22. The movies are free and begin at sundown.

July 31, Aug. 1

Bar W Rodeo, a family-owned rodeo stock contracting company based in Hayesville, N.C., will be in town at Boling Park. www.barwrodeoco.com.

Aug. 2

A Day on the Etowah River, sponsored by the Cherokee County Historical Society and the Upper Etowah River Alliance, features educational programs on the history of the area, a six-mile paddle on the Etowah River featuring Native American fish weirs and other historic sites and a dinner at The Wheeler House, an event venue in Ball Ground built in 1906. Times are 1:30-8 p.m. Suggested donation is $80 or $140 per couple. Price includes canoe or kayak rentals, dinner, drinks, tours, a chance to win a new recreational kayak and a year’s membership in each participating organization. www.coosa.org.

Aug. 4

National Night Out is a national event designed to bring awareness to crime and drug prevention. The Canton event will take place 6-8:30 p.m. at the Etowah River Park. www.cantongeorgia.com. Woodstock’s event, sponsored by the Woodstock Police Department, is set for 6-9 p.m. at The Park at City Center. Call Officer Ryan Bleisath at 678-614-9104 for details. www.woodstockga.gov.

Aug. 7

First Friday in downtown Canton 6-9 p.m. with music from 1st Generation. The theme is Through the Decades. www.cantongeorgia.com.

Aug. 17

Hope Fore Single Moms Golf Classic to benefit Serenade Heights will be held at the Fairways of Canton. $200 registration includes a round of golf, greens and cart fee, breakfast and lunch, and tee gift. Register at http://event.attendstar.com/event/show/hopefore-moms-golf-classic/. Email sierra0030@gmail.com. www.serenadeheights.org.

Beginning Aug. 19

Divorce and Grief care support groups will meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays for 13 weeks at Woodstock United Methodist Church, 109 Towne Lake Parkway. $15 includes workbook. To register, call 770-516-0371.

Aug. 21-23, 28-30

“Vanities” by Jack Heifner will be performed by the Cherokee Theatre Company at the Downtown Canton Theatre, with shows beginning at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. For tickets, email boxoffice@cherokeetheatre.org or call 770-591-0282. www.cherokeetheatre.org. 20

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Preserve & Protect the Old for a Better Future BY STEFANIE JOYNER

There has been much debate lately in Cherokee County about whether or not we should save some of our historic buildings. The demolition of Bell’s Store in Buffington, and the controversy about the former Grammar Cotton Mill Office School and Cotton Mill office (right) and in downtown Canton, Grammar School in have highlighted the downtown question of old verses Canton. new. Is it better for the community to raze historic buildings for more parking, or to build new modern buildings? That’s not always an easy question to answer. Some people think that preservationists rely too much on emotion, placing an unfair burden on the public to save outdated “relics.” As a preservationist, I would respectfully disagree. It has been proven time and time again that historic preservation is good for business.

According to a study by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, historic preservation in Georgia has added jobs, increased property values, spurred investment and generated income. The availability of federal and state tax credits and low interest loan funds have increased private investments in historic buildings. The same study cites that since 2000, there has been $560,000,000 invested in historic properties by the private sector. This has resulted in 10,168 jobs for Georgia workers and $420,046,800 in income for Georgia workers and proprietors. Preserving our historic downtowns is also good for tourism. Edward McMahon, writes in Better Cities & Towns, “The more communities come to look and feel just like everyplace else, the less reason there is to visit. On the other hand, the more a community does to enhance its uniqueness, the more people will want to visit.” Travel writer Arthur Frommer put it this way: “Among cities with no particular recreational appeal, those that have

continued on page 62

Stefanie Joyner is the Executive Director of the Cherokee County Historical Society and a Canton Main Street board member.

Finding a Fairer Way BY SCOT TURNER

Last year Cherokee County Tax Commissioner Sonya Little contacted Rep. Michael Caldwell and myself to tell us about a scenario that had played out for the first time in Cherokee County. She had recently tried to prevent a company in a different part of the state from using a legal loophole to virtually steal a house from its owner. The scenario went something like this; an elderly man who owned his home free and clear became ill, accrued some small medical bills, and passed away. For two years, his family struggled with what to do with the property and failed to pay the property taxes. When Commissioner Little could not contact the family, she was forced by law to levy the property for tax sale. The market value of the home was roughly $100,000 and the back taxes were in the $2,000 range. At the tax sale, two companies got into a bidding war and bid the property up to $120,000. The winning bidder found the bad debt from when the elderly man was in the hospital and ended up with $375 medical lien. The winning bidder then filed that lien against the property and in doing so triggered what is called “superlien” status. The superlien allows the lien holder to immediately move to foreclosure. The end result was that the winning bidder had locked out the property owner from gaining access to the excess funds, the house was foreclosed, and the property owner was left with

nothing. Meanwhile, the winning bidder received all of their money back minus the back taxes and received the home as well. There are a few companies that have built a business model around this legal loophole and they are nothing more than predators that prey on our sick and elderly. Commissioner Little understood how nefarious these bad actors are and decided to do something about it. I am thankful she contact Rep. Caldwell and I to address this issue. This year, we introduced HB 81, which is a measure meant to end the predatory nature of these super liens. In essence, it would prevent these bad actors from moving to foreclosure immediately and allow the property owner to have time to address any of the debt that is being filed against their property. It is a far superior and fairer way to deal with this process. I would like to thank Commissioner Little for bringing this to our attention and for her sense of justice. We will continue to fight for everyday Georgians.

Scot Turner, an IT professional, is the State House Representative for District 21. He can be reached at (678) 576-2644 or www.facebook.com/turnerforhouse. SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community Helping Hands

An Outreach to the Hungry and Homeless BY SUSAN SCHULZ

Many of us believe downtown Atlanta is the closest place you’ll find a homeless population - certainly not in Cherokee County. Unfortunately that is not true. While there are several local efforts to help the homeless, one in particular began with the simple question from a three-year-old boy named Seth. The youngster, who is now nine years old, heard his mom use the age-old reasoning of moms who want to encourage their children to clean their plates: “there are hungry people in the world,” she said. His response: “Can we ask our neighbors for some food for the hungry people? I’m sure they have some food in their pantry to share.” When Seth was in kindergarten, his mom Leah Evaschuk took him door to door to collect groceries to donate to Give Homeless Hope, a Cobb County food pantry; Seth ended up with a full wagon. It was a satisfying mission, but the experience left them wanting more of a connection with the people who receive the food especially the homeless men and women in Cherokee County. Leah decided to build an outreach-focused program to meet the basic needs of the homeless and low-income residents of Cherokee County, and offer fellowship and ministry to those in need. Their church, Oak Leaf, helped them build the foundation of Leah’s program, Rooted in Love. The ministry was named after a prayer in Ephesians 3:17, in which a desire is expressed for the downtrodden to become rooted and established in God’s love. With the help of Leah’s church family and members of the community, Rooted in Love launched its 22

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Sharing a meal and playing games are part of the fellowship offered by Rooted in Love volunteers.

first event with a meal for the homeless on Feb. 7, 2015. Thirty volunteers from area churches, youth groups and colleges met in downtown Canton with carloads full of food, clothing, blankets and basic needs for the homeless population of that area of Cherokee County. Volunteers assembled bags filled with more than 100 rolls of toilet paper, soaps, canned goods, pasta, hand-warmers, tissues, candles, and more. Women and children chose coats, jackets, and blankets from bins of donated items. Plates of chili, salad, cornbread, chips, and cookies were shared with more than 25 people. The love of Christ was shared through prayer, conversation coloring books, sidewalk chalk and soccer. One recipient said that the volunteers with Rooted in Love “are awesome folks. I love them for loving God so much and reaching out to me.” Since that first meal, the sharing continues on the first and third Saturdays of every month, in the Canton Village parking lot at 261 Marietta Road in Canton. The distribution isn’t limited to the homeless. Anyone with a need will be served. Ministry members also give away goody bags filled with basic hygiene items and snacks. If you have a desire to get involved in this much needed ministry by being a part of the Saturday meals or goody bags, please sign up at: www.rootedinlovega.org.

Acting 101: How to Get Started BY JESSICA LEIGH SMITH

Metro Atlanta area has been successful in courting television and film projects that open the door to local residents interested in acting. I started my acting career in 2006, and have since been in more than 40 films, TV shows, web series, plays and commercials, as well as other acting and producing projects. Most notably, I had co-starring roles on One Tree Hill and Drop Dead Diva. One of my greatest passions is helping others get started in acting, and teaching them how to avoid scams and pitfalls. The first step is determining what level of acting you are interested in; if you want a fun experience to tell your friends and family about, you may prefer background acting, otherwise known as being an extra. This comes with long hours, low pay and little glory. It also means a day on set and possibly being in close proximity to your favorite actor. For me, hours of downtime means a lot of reading! Steps to becoming an extra are easy. Find an extras casting office, send in the requested picture(s), information, and wait to be contacted for a job. Most of the offices have Facebook pages, and you can like those pages to find out about upcoming work. Only contact a casting office about roles for which you are the type they need -- it is highly annoying to the casting director to receive calls or emails from actors they can’t use at that time. There are quite a few casting agencies in Atlanta, and you can submit to them all — and follow their instructions. For more information, visit www. cometourgeorgia.com.

If you want more out of your acting experience and are looking for a speaking part, you are seeking principal roles. Follow these two basic steps: Have a professional headshot taken of yourself. Don’t rely on your favorite family member with a camera. It’s important to hire someone who has experience taking actors’ headshots. Before selecting a photographer, visit his or her website and look for an extensive headshot portfolio. Sign with an agent. Be cautious. A good agent won’t require or even strongly suggest that you take certain classes, or use a specific photographer. A legitimate agent gets paid when you get paid, so don’t let anyone convince you that you need to spend money with them. And make sure you follow directions when submitting to an acting agency. This is the first in a series of articles about the steps to becoming an actor and how to take advantage of local filming opportunities. If you have a specific question you would like to see answered, please email candi@aroundaboutmagazines.com.

Jessica Leigh Smith lives in Cherokee County with her family. Jessica is also an actress and producer. JessicaLeighSmith.com and Facebook.com/NotFinishedInc.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

Summer Sweets AND TASTY TREATS BY CHANTEL ADAMS | CHANLYNNADAMS@GMAIL.COM

The hot July sun beats down on us, leaving us desperate for a reprieve, some refreshment or anything to revive us as we labor through the dog days of summer.

Nothing says “summer” like an ice-cold Coca Cola, and the coldest one in town is at the Taco Truck at the corner of Bells Ferry Road and Eagle Drive. Kudos to you if you’re brave enough to try the Tongue Taco; I’m a personal fan of the chicken. The best part of this taco truck is the authentic Mexican 1-liter Coke for only $2. Perfect for sharing. It’s the pinnacle of summer refreshment. El Don Taco Truck, Valero Gas Station Parking Lot, across from the Walmart on Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock.

2. Yes, there’s a slew of trendy, new restaurants in downtown

Woodstock, but I’m still loyal to the original Vingenzo’s, especially now that Chef Michael Bologna has added Affogato to the dessert menu. If you want to sit for just a bit longer to sip and savor something that will appeal to your sophisticated palate, this is the ticket. Choose your gelato; then watch as your waitress delicately pours a tiny cup of perfectly-brewed espresso over it. It’s heaven in a cup. I do not recommend sharing. $5.50, Vingenzo’s, 105 E. Main Street, Woodstock.

3. Even if you’re someone who likes to churn your own homemade ice cream, the

Frosty Frog in Hickory Flat has flavors that will knock your socks off. Brown sugar cinnamon and mocha cappuccino cheesecake entice adults, while birthday cake and cotton candy keep children returning week after week. Even if you do have time to make your own ice cream, you won’t be able to make it like this. A cone is $3.39, pints are $4.99. Frosty Frog, 6205 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton.

4. I first saw these delicious water bottles

at the Ingles on Riverstone Parkway in Canton. I keep these on hand for entertaining unexpected guests. The crisp, clean taste will refresh and revive you without adding calories or guilt. Metromint is made with simple ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. Dieters, rejoice! Flavors include spearmint, peppermint, orange mint, lemon mint and chocolate mint. Individual bottles sell for about $1.69. Ingles Supermarket, 104 Riverstone Parkway, Canton.

5 24

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We have authentic New Orleans style sno-balls right here in Canton. On any given hot afternoon, you’ll find a long line of people waiting for this refreshing treat. My personal favorite is the cream soda. The fine and fluffy shaved ice absorbs all the syrup, so you won’t find a puddle in the bottom of your cup. Ask for a free sample of jerky and sit a spell in the shade of one of the Corner Butcher Shop’s shaded outdoor tables. A generous helping in a small cup is only $2.50. Corner Butcher Shop, 10515 Bells Ferry Road, Canton.

Recreational Venue Began as a Flood Control Measure BY AMY COBB

Believe it or not, Allatoona Lake was not built primarily for boating, fishing and camping, although those are pleasant consequences of its construction. Anyone who lived downstream of Allatoona Dam before it was constructed will tell you it was built for flood control. Annual flooding caused millions of dollars worth of damage to property and crops for the people of Rome and other towns downstream. In the early 1900s, there were multiple flood events, one so major that it is recorded that the waters in downtown Rome were deep enough for a steamboat to travel up Broad Street. In the 1920s, Georgia Power Co. became interested in the Allatoona site and started buying land to construct a dam and reservoir. Georgia Powerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans came to a halt because of the economic climate during the Great Depression. In A side view of the Allatoona Dam in 1947 in the middle of construction. Toward the 1934, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducted a back of the picture are three penstocks, two of which currently deliver water from the intake to the turbines. study that included Allatoona in the general plan for the Alabama-Coosa River system, but it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pursued because This year is the 65th anniversary of the opening of the of the lack of a power market at the time and the exorbitant project, and in the past 65 years, many visitors to Allatoona construction costs for flood control. have enjoyed the benefits of that construction. For information Another study of the Coosa and its tributaries in 1938 on recreation opportunities at Allatoona Lake, contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Allatoona Lake Project Management justified the need to reduce the flood frequency on the Etowah Office at 678-721-6700. River and in Rome, and approval to construct the Allatoona Dam and Reservoir was granted in the Flood Control Act of Aug. 18, 1941. Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in June 1946 and construction crews worked 24 hours a day, seven days a week Park Ranger Amy Cobb is a Georgia native and has been a for three and a half years to complete the dam. The project was Corps Ranger at several locations around the South. completed and opened for public use in 1950.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Helping Hands

Supporting Senior Citizens in Need BY MARCINE JOHNSON AND BRANDI HACKETT

The Cherokee County Volunteer Aging Council (VAC) is an agency that was founded in 2000 to help the aging population. The nonprofit 501(c)3 exists to “encourage volunteerism and conduct fundraising activities to fiscally support those of greatest need within our aging community,” according to the mission statement. The VAC is specifically dedicated to support Cherokee County Senior Services (CCSS) by utilizing donated funds; we are also ambassadors to our community, and work diligently to increase awareness of the programs and events of CCSS and issues concerning all seniors. Our logo is “SoS” - Serving our Seniors. We raise money by holding multiple fundraising events throughout the year. Monthly, we hold $5 lunches at various senior residences throughout the county. Annually, we host a motorcycle ride called Poker Run helping to spread the word about the VAC’s efforts. In addition, we hold an annual gala to raise funds. Proceeds from fundraising events support the following programs: Meals on Wheels -- The VAC provides 100 percent of funds for prescribed nutritional drink supplements that assist seniors with compromised nutritional needs. The VAC has also purchased new thermal meal bags for the safe delivery of meals, as well as permanent kitchen equipment. Outreach, Information and Assistance -- The VAC provides the additional emergency funds for seniors who have exhausted all other means of assistance for things such as utilities, rent or medical costs. Cherokee County Senior Services screens all applications for assistance to ensure it is truly a “last stop” for the VAC to provide funding. Home Care Services -- The VAC identifies a local service provider to help seniors in need of items, such as fans, air conditioners, or heaters. VAC also assist seniors with odd jobs, such as changing light bulbs, installing grab bars for safety, or building ramps for wheelchair-bound seniors. Projects have included replacing a water heater, adding a handrail to a porch and providing more than 10 air conditioners for seniors with asthma, a step that significantly improved their life, according to Judy Davilla. All donations are tax deductible to extent permitted by law. Visit http://vac-cherokeega.org/. 26

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Doug Key (left) with Marcine Johnson, chair of the VAC board of directors, and Judy Davila, VAC board member for fundraising.

During a recent VAC fundraiser, Doug Key of Key’s Jewelry in downtown Canton, donated an 18K white gold, triangleshaped green tourmaline pendant with diamonds, valued at $4,500. Tickets for a chance to win the necklace were sold, and a drawing was held in early May. The winners were Dottie and Robert Denham. The raffle was part of the annual gala, which raised more than $20,000 to support seniors and veterans in need.

Donations Needed: • • • • • • • • •

Rolling walkers with large seats 4 pronged canes Grab bars Shower chairs Latex gloves XL adult diapers Depends Refrigerators Disposable bed liners

To make a donation, call Dianne Voss at 770-345-7515.

Senior Sense The Value of Creativity BY DELIA HALVERSON

Many seniors decide to downsize and move into a smaller house. I remember the time we decided to retire our furniture and refurnish the living room. With a tingle of creativity, we approached the furniture store. My imagination was about to be challenged. Before me lay rooms of furniture. Our salesman approached with the usual let-me-sell-to-you gleam in his eye. He proudly showed us from room to room, explaining how the furnishings coordinated in the rooms. I made the mistake of mentioning coordinating things from different rooms. The salesman bristled and quickly pointed out the monetary advantage of purchasing the room’s pieces as a complete set. A large sign in each room stated the price of the room if purchased item by item and quoted the reduced price of the complete room. If we filled the room with all the items listed, there would be no space for personal things. I could not use the driftwood I carried over many rods of portages on our canoe camping trip. I would have to pack away the shells I collected when we lived on Sanibel Island. The antique duck decoy would be banished from its prized place. Suddenly these things became more precious to me than the most lavishly decorated room. I would not stifle my creative urge. I was determined to combine the old and the new, thereby giving our home a personal quality as well as good decorative taste. We left the store. I set about redecorating our living room. Our nephew’s painting of a lighthouse hangs on one wall. Our shelves and tables hold everything from my grandmother’s rose bowl to a two-foot cedar candlestick made from an old fence post by a friend. Each item has memories and meaning. As for the furniture, it took on a new glow when we had it reupholstered. I knew we were right in our decision when the local home economics teacher asked me to allow her students to tour our house during their study on furnishing accessories. Had I remembered the salesman’s name I would have written him. I can’t even remember the name of the store! The salesman lost a potential customer by not allowing me to combine my memories with new furniture. He might have sold me half of the store!

I was determined to combine the old and the new, thereby giving our home a personal quality as well as good decorative taste.

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

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

EVERYDAY

Identifying people in need in our community.

David with his mom, Mary Ellen Hedrick.

What would you do... if you knew that with each passing day,

your health was deteriorating as your failing kidney continued to create new health issues? Powerless, you spend four long hours, three days each week tethered to a dialysis machine. You patiently wait for the chance at a new kidney, along with more than 90,000 others who face your same challenges. After exhausting all family donor possibilities, you wait for the perfect match before your time runs out. You pray and share your story, in hopes that the news of your medical need will reach the right person. Woodstock resident Brian Mott, 56, is in desperate need of a kidney transplant from a living donor. Brian’s personal journey began in 1995 when he was diagnosed with medullary cystic kidney disease, commonly called UKD, a rare, inherited disorder caused by a genetic chromosome mutation. Children of affected parents have a 50 percent chance of developing UKD. This inherited disease has taken the life of Brian’s grandmother at age 31, and his father at age 36. Today, three of his six siblings have been diagnosed with UKD, along with his daughter. “UKD is one of the more vicious forms of kidney disease, but it is the one type of kidney disease that can be treated successfully for a long period of time with a donor kidney, as it is not caused by outside sources such as diabetes or high blood pressure,” said Brian. Eighteen years ago, Brian received his first kidney transplant when his beautiful sisterin-law Martiza was in a fatal car crash involving a drunk driver. “They called it a tragic miracle, but I call it something good that came out of something that should never have happened,” said Dave, Brian’s brother and Martiza’s husband. Maritza’s donated kidneys saved Brian 28

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

and his brother Wayne, as well as countless others who received her donated organs. “For the past 18 years, Brian has successfully lived with Maritza’s kidney – well beyond the average. However, his transplant kidney began failing in August of 2013, and for the past three years, he has been on a big-time roller coaster, healthwise. In November 2013, he suffered a hemorrhagic stroke, which really set him back, and [he] had to have his aortic valve replaced.” Brian has been cleared for another transplant and is in desperate need of a living donor, as his health continues to decline. Most people start with family members when looking for a donor, but that is a limited option due to the Mott family’s health history. Most people don’t realize that donating a kidney is a relatively simple procedure; it’s a laparoscopic surgery, which is a minimally-invasive technique that causes less discomfort than procedures performed in the past. There are also shorter hospital stays and recovery time. Brian and his family have had their fair share of adversity, and have learned first-hand the importance of good health and vitality. Brian shares his story not only to create awareness about the growing need of living organ donors today, but also with a glimpse of hope that someone may be moved to give the gift of life. To learn more about how to become a living kidney donor, visit www.kidneyregistry.org. To contact Brian Mott directly, email brianmott@msn.com or contact Everyday Angels at aaeverydayangels@gmail.com to be directed to Brian’s transplant coordinators. Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation, please visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. Also, if you know of a special need within your community that you would like to share, please send an e-mail to aaeverydayangels@gmail.com for consideration and qualification.

Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Noodles. He fetches a toy when you throw it but does not bring it back. He is about 2 years old and he is a black Lab. He is really nice. He has a white tip at the end of his tail. He is calm and likes belly rubs and toys. He was brought in as a stray. There are a lot of kittens at the shelter. Buy a kitten at the shelter to help them. At the moment, it is buy one get one free. Please spay and neuter your pets.

I went with Pet Buddies Food Pantry to a trailer park. There were lots of dogs and cats barking and meowing. I helped them. I helped Dr. Taylor by mixing injections – distemper and rabies vaccines. Visit my updated website:

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

O QUI T S O M R IT Y O H T AU

678.294.7597 BugsBITE.com SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Community

ALS, Social Media and Woodstock Youth Fighting for a Better Tomorrow BY SEAN KAUFMAN

We don’t know where it comes from. It sneaks up on you and slowly deprives your muscles of the nourishment needed, paralyzing you from the outside in. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is something that affects people globally. Unfortunately, it also affects many of us in Cherokee County. My good friend Dr. Keith Ingram, principal at Ball Ground Elementary School, is witnessing his father fight this condition. Elizabeth Baker, now a sixth-grader at Woodstock Middle School, lost her father Keith Baker last year. He demonstrated courage, strength and love during his battle with ALS. Preston Gibbs and Brayden Davis were fifth-graders at Woodstock Elementary. Together, they decided to enter a social studies fair and could choose from many topics. At first, Chick-fil-A seemed to be their favorite topic—until the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge went viral. A simple question, “Did social media increase ALS awareness?” not only allowed for them to prevail at Woodstock Elementary, but they took first place at county, regionals and state! I met with Preston and Brayden, who provided the Elizabeth Baker with her father, Keith. results of their research. Prior to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, between the months of July and September 2013, the ALS Association received $3.5 million in donations. From July to September 2014 following the Ice Bucket Challenge, the association received $109 million—and that number is still growing! Both boys shared with me their thoughts about ALS, how they had witnessed Keith Baker progress over the years, and their continued desire to make a difference. I was humbled by their commitment to a disease that many of us cannot even pronounce properly.

Raising money for scientific research, which will make a difference, is absolutely critical in this war against ALS.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Preston Gibbs (left) and Brayden Davis.

Preston and Brayden have started a walking team called the Walking Wolverines to raise money for the 2015 Walk to Defeat ALS, set for Sept. 19 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Their goal is $1,750. (To make a donation, visit web.alsa.org, click on Donate and search for the Walking Wolverines team.) It is my hope we can help them meet their goal and reinforce their hard work and commitment to something greater than themselves. Today, an ALS diagnosis does not bring much hope to loved ones. Control is lost, nobody knows how long and what to expect. Family members witness their loved one fight an incurable condition and, as the body begins to break down, the mind stays completely aware of everything that is happening. Raising money for scientific research, which will make a difference, is absolutely critical in this war against ALS. Every dollar matters, no matter how small the donation. Please consider donating today—for Keith Ingram and his dad, for the Baker family, and for two boys fighting for a better tomorrow.

Sean Kaufman, an expert in behaviour change, specializes in life coaching and workforce motivation and owns The Texting Coach and Behavior-Based Improvement Solutions. sean@seankaufman.com

Are We in a Seller’s Market? BY KURT & SHEILA JOHNSON

If I could answer the question about whether or not a seller’s market exists with only a yes or a no answer, I wouldn’t need to write an entire article to give you the correct answer. The short answer is this: the real estate market is improving in all price ranges, but higher priced homes are in a buyer’s market. A seller’s market is when buyer demand exceeds seller’s supply. In the housing industry, it is widely accepted that a seller’s market occurs when there is less than seven months of available inventory (homes for sale). At the end of April 2015, Cherokee County had 3.46 months of inventory of detached single family homes, according to First Multiple Listings Service (FMLS) sales data. This, by definition, is a strong seller’s market...but not for everyone. You will notice in the chart that the Months of Inventory of homes vary greatly by price range. Over the last 12 months, an average of 54.83 homes in the $100,000 - $149,999 price range have sold per month. With only 66 homes currently on the market in this price range, there is slightly more than a month’s supply of homes priced in this range. To the other extreme, there is roughly an eight- to-19 month supply of houses (278 homes) on the market priced over $400,000. With only about 24 homes per month selling in this

price range, it may take additional upgrades or improvements, or a competitive price, to stand out in this crowded inventory. Before deciding on a pricing strategy for your property, ask your Realtor to determine if your home’s price range, subdivision and home type is in a buyer’s or seller’s market.

Kurt and Sheila Johnson are Keller Williams Top Producing Agents and have served Cherokee County for more than 10 years. www.KurtandSheilaTeam.com.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Lifestyle

New Life for Highway 92

Transforming into a Gateway to Woodstock BY PATTI HART

In the mid 1990s, I traveled the Woodstock stretch of Highway 92 between the railroad tracks and I-575 dozens of times on the way to the mountains. It was not so very different from other stretches of Highway 92, where on my daily travels I would pass a Wal-Mart, Dairy Queen, brick office buildings, a bank or two, fast food restaurants, strip malls and lots of parking. It wasn’t until my husband and I moved to Woodstock in 1997 that I discovered a wonderful authentic downtown area with a pharmacy/post office, a barber shop and antique stores. Restaurants had yet to come east of the train tracks where the multistory mixed-use buildings now stand. The current downtown district of Woodstock is thriving and prosperous with a better balance of commercial, office and residential to fill the sidewalks with activity. This successful revitalization was spurred by an early Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) grant, through the Atlanta Regional Commission. A subsequent study, the Town Center LCI, better defined the Main Street theme. By comparison, that stretch of Highway 92 has remained unchanged and there is nothing to point passers-by to the thriving downtown just a mile or so away. On June 8, 2015, after a year-long public planning process, Woodstock’s city council approved the Highway 92 Corridor LCI as an extension to the existing Town Center LCI, which guided the downtown development. We hope to bring new life to the aging Highway 92 corridor by improving economic viability; accommodating pedestrians, bicyclists and other transit users like commuters and seniors in need of local transit; preserving and enhancing the area’s natural features; increasing aesthetic appeal; and improving the overall health of the community while creating a gateway to downtown with its own unique sense of place. What’s to Come: • Because this stretch of Highway 92 is a major transportation corridor, the plan seeks to find the balance between moving cars through quickly and efficiently while providing pedestrian

The proposal would add streets along the sides for local traffic, leaving the middle lanes for faster travel. HIGHWAY 92 AXONOMETRIC COURTESY OF CITY OF WOODSTOCK

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amenities that offer a sense of safety and comfort with redesigned crosswalks, respite islands and shade trees. • Access streets for local traffic will keep the center lanes moving quickly. • Strengthening sidewalk and trail connections will encourage residents to choose biking and walking over driving. • Providing a shared water retention facility that is centralized on the corridor will be an attractive incentive for redevelopment. • Increasing the number of destinations that can be safely accessed from the end of the Greenprints Alliance Noonday Creek Trail, part of the Greenprints Trail System, just east of the I-575 intersection on the north side of Highway 92. A connection to Town Center, Kennesaw, Marietta and eventually the Silver Comet Trail is a real possibility. Travelers along the Highway 92 corridor in the future are likely to have a different experience than mine. Will future day trippers pass through Woodstock with a sense that this is a unique place with active streets where people bike and walk? Will they make unplanned stops at a farmers market and discover walking trails and plan to come back another day? Will they take note of mixed use developments with active open spaces and conveniences like a grocer or shared work centers for local entrepreneurs? Will gateway signage draw them into our downtown? Will they see the spirit of Woodstock reflected on the fringes of the corridor? The study has helped us plan for these exciting opportunities that will change the face of the Highway 92 corridor as we know it today. It’s difficult to speculate on the timing for these changes. These typically are 20- to 25-year plans, but if the development of downtown Woodstock is any indication, we could see improvements take place in a much shorter time period.

Patti Hart, Project Manager for the Hwy 92 LCI, is a Woodstock City Planner and has been with the Community Development Department since 2005.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side BY LYNNE WATTS

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy local attractions. A visit to Zoo Atlanta will be entertaining and will offer education about animal conservation and endangerment. One of the oldest zoos in the country, it was created in 1889 when a traveling carnival went bankrupt and the animals were donated to the city of Atlanta. At first the zoo was simply a free attraction where city residents could come and gawk at exotic animals. In order to maintain the animals, there was eventually a charge to visit. The zoo was profitable until the 1980s, when it nearly shut down because of financial difficulties. In came Director Terry Maple, who brought a fresh perspective. Through his innovative guidance and that of his successors, it is today a major tourist attraction showcasing more exotic animals than any other zoo in the world. Plan to spend several hours at the zoo, as there is a lot to see! Stop by the gorilla compound, where gorillas roam freely in an environment that replicates their natural habitat. Watch in fascination as the panda bears play, sleep and enjoy their daily ration of bamboo. Check out the schedule of feedings and you might be able to feed a giraffe or interact with a zookeeper to learn more about his or her job. Visit the petting zoo to enjoy some up close and personal time with baby goats, sheep and a pig or two. Attend the wildlife show where you can meet free-

flying birds and animal ambassadors from around the world. Learn about more than 70 snake, turtle and lizard species at the Scaly, Slimy Spectacular, a new, state-of-the-art reptile and amphibian exhibit that opened this year. Need to let the kids run off some energy? There is a playground complete with a carousel and train ride. You can even cool off on a hot day at the splash fountain. One hundred and twenty five years after starting as a quaint circus event, Zoo Atlanta has become renowned for its conservation efforts and preservation of animals in the wild. Take a walk on the wild side this summer and experience an organization devoted to education, research and making the world a better place for all its inhabitants. www.zooatlanta.org/ home

Plan to spend several hours at the zoo, as there is a lot to see!

Lynne Watts is an author, speaker, coach, mom and a retired Cherokee County School District counselor. She can be reached at lynnewatts@comcast.net.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Lifestyle

Congratulations 2015 Graduates!

Sequoyah High: Samuel Max Fullerton.

Cherokee High: Jack Wareham, Jamie Dowis, Darby Blanton, Dr. Susan Buice, Emily Lembke, Adam Green, Kristina Meyer, Kate Huller and Sydney Holloway.

Cherokee High: Sasha Rodriguez, Dr. Susan Buice, Ashley Rodriguez

Woodstock High: Emily Test, Chad Rocker and Lanna Farmer.

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Woodstock High: Madison Rae McColl.

Cherokee High: Amanda Marshall.

Cherokee High: Dr. Susan Buice and Austin Floyd.

The Dark Secrets of a High School Valedictorian BY MIKE LITREL, MD

I’ve gotten a lot of congratulations lately about my son Joseph graduating as Etowah High School’s valedictorian. Many assume that since I am a physician, Joseph’s achievement is somehow related to smart genes inherited from yours truly. After all, his mom is only an artist. Although my wife Ann would never admit it, I suspect the accolades I receive for my son’s scholarly prowess must really tick her off. While I struggled in high school and college and goofed off more than I care to admit, Ann earned her way to the No. 1 spot both in high school and at the University of Michigan. Ann knows she is the smart one in our marriage, and any credit I deserve for intelligence is only for the decision to marry up. Sadly, my true genetic influence was all too apparent when Joseph stood up to deliver his valedictory address. “One of my greatest dreams in life,” Joseph began his speech to his Etowah classmates and an audience of 5,000, “is to get tackled away from a podium for saying something inappropriate.” Joseph grinned, and nervous laughter filled the auditorium. I did not join in. Years ago in one of these columns I wrote about how Joseph once tried to burn down my house. He’s done plenty of other things, too, about which I’ve mostly kept mum. A couple of months ago I found a crumpled up letter on the floor kicking Joseph out of National Honor Society. The stated reason was for “not upholding the standards of this organization.” His excuse

to me was that he hated waking up early for the meetings. Although Joseph was somewhat busy as a wrestler and part time Kennesaw State University student, I sensed this was the moment to tell him that laziness gets you Four of the top five Etowah graduates (from left) nowhere in life. Joseph Litrel, salutatorian Samantha Kaczaral, But I was too lazy Mason Pirkl and Katherine Morawa. Not pictured: for that particular Aidan Workman. conversation. We worry about our kids. It starts the day they miraculously arrive in our lives, in an explosion of tears, blood and amniotic fluid. For the next 18 years we pray that they keep safe from the

continued on page 62

Dr. Mike Litrel, author of two books on faith-health connection, is a board certified OB/GYN and specialist in pelvic reconstructive surgery at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists. www.cherokeewomenshelth.com.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Feature

y t i C y d n i W e h t f o e t s a T a g Bringin July is National Hot Dog Month, and according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans will consume 155 million hot dogs during the Fourth of July weekend – the biggest hot

Chicago Style Hot Dogs Chili Dog Chili Cheese Dog Kraut Dog Slaw Dog Italian Beef Sandwich Ruben Sandwich

dog holiday of the year. However, you can get your hot dog fix any day of the year at Woodstock’s new hot dog joint— What A Dog. Owner Daniel Payne wanted to bring the Chicagostyle hot dog experience to Woodstock, so his first order of business was earn a Ph.D from Hot Dog University in Chicago. “Chicago has some of the best hot dogs and beef sandwiches in the world.” Payne said. “After sampling food from all over North Georgia, I could not find anything even remotely close to a true Chicago-style hot dog, so I felt that I needed to bring the amazing food from Chicago to Georgia.” A true Chicago-style hot dog starts out with one of the famous Vienna

Polish Sausage Single, Double & Triple Burgers add cheese, bacon, chili and more!

pen! Now O

What A Dog 9595 B Main St., Woodstock, 30188 Located at 9595 Highway 92 (Corner of Highway 92 and Main Street beside the Chevron Station) 770-485-3411 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., seven days a week 36

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

From left: Cook Nathan Pennington, manager Erik Aguilar and server Mary Dell.

beef franks in a poppy seed bun, topped with mild yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, a dill pickle spear, two sport peppers and a dash of celery salt. What A Dog offers the traditional frankfurter that has been “dragged through the garden,” as described by die-hard fans of the Chicago dog. Hot dogs aren’t the only thing on the menu – stop in for a fresh, all-beef, made-to-order hamburger, or a Vienna beef sandwich smothered with peppers and mozzarella cheese that comes with a side of au jus sauce. Pair either of those menu items with a side of chili cheese fries, and you have a delicious and satisfying meal. One of the newest items on the menu is the Chicago-style pizza puff: a deep-fried pastry filled with pepperoni and mozzarella cheese. Jeremy, a recent customer trying the pizza puff for the first time, said “It was pure awesomeness!” “We actually listen to our customers and love getting feedback, Payne said. “We have spent the last few months talking with customers and making some great changes based on their feedback.” Don’t wait for the next cookout or baseball game to experience a great hot dog – visit What A Dog and get a taste of the Windy City, right here in Woodstock.

photos by Kim Bates

k c o t s d o o W o t y

In 1893 more than 27 million people

flocked to the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago to witness the latest inventions, including the Vienna beef hot dog, created by AustrianHungarian immigrants Emil Reichel and Sam Ladany. The Chicago Style hot dog got its start from street cart hot dog vendors during the Great Depression. Money was scarce, but business was good for these entrepreneurs who offered a delicious hot meal on a bun for only a nickel. The famous Chicago Style hot dog was born! SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Lifestyle

Reasons Not To Write Your Own Will Do-it-yourself is cheaper, but you could do some things wrong. DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS

Maybe you have seen those will-in-a-box kits. Maybe you have even considered picking one up. Think twice about that. While you can draft a will on your own, there are plenty of reasons why you may not want to go that route. Most people do it to save money, but they may overlook or forget to take care of some important details—details that may eventually cost them much more than the amount they could save. Some of the big mistakes include: Ignoring state law differences. Many will kits and online wills and trusts do not take into account state laws regarding the administration of probate or trusts. An estate planning attorney will inform you of these state laws; a will kit or website may not.

While you can draft a will on your own, there are plenty of reasons why you may not want to go that route. Most people do it to save money, but they may overlook or forget to take care of some important details.

Blind faith in software. While software or an online form can help you draft a will, there is no guarantee that the technology will ask you the specific, unique questions an attorney might pose in regard to the fine points of your estate. It may not even make you aware of them. Not revoking an earlier will. Most wills contain boilerplate language that automatically revokes any preceding will. If you are writing your will totally on your own (some people still do), you may not realize the necessity of such a clause. Assumptions. If you will property to an heir, what happens if you outlive that heir? What if you will an asset to a friend or relative today, and that asset is gone when your will is executed someday? These are things to think about that most people writing a will have not considered. Vagueness. Sometimes executors are not given sufficient power by the language of a will. Sometimes a home will be left to a spouse in trust, but with no one assigned to pay 38

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for upkeep of the home during the rest of that widow’s lifetime. Alternate executors are sometimes omitted from wills, and names of nonprofit groups can easily be misstated or misspelled, inviting complication and possible dispute of charitable intent. Not getting it notarized. Regardless of how “official” your homemade will looks, it still requires witnessing and signing to be legally valid. There are many stories of people finding out that the will or living trust they paid money for is not actually binding as it has never been notarized. Wills, trusts and estate plans should be crafted with the help of attorneys. Fortunately, many financial professionals have relationships with attorneys. Instead of searching the Internet or the Yellow Pages for a stranger, ask the financial advisor you consult for a referral. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer legal advice or services. Please speak with your legal professional before implementing any strategies. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.

Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. Phone 770-952-6707.

West Nile in Georgia and the U.S. BY RICK COUGHLIN

Georgia reported 13 human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) with one death in 2014, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Eleven of the 13 cases experienced WNV neurologic illness, which is an altered mental status, paralysis, encephalitis and/or meningitis. Two were diagnosed with WNV fever. The average age of the patients was 53. The majority of the cases was reported in July, August and September. In the United States in 2014, a total of 2,122 cases (including 85 deaths) of the virus were reported. Of these, 1,283 were classified as neuroinvasive and the rest were non-neuroinvasive. Surveillance will continue throughout 2015 in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the University of Georgia Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories. Surveillance has traditionally been an important indicator of disease activity in Georgia and has been used as an indicator of human risk. Continued surveillance also increases the chance that the next new virus introduced into the area will be identified before human cases occur. Where mosquito control is available, data is shared between public health and mosquito control programs. Mosquito control targeting specific vector species will reduce the risk of transmission. Currently there is a risk that Chikungunya, a human arboviral disease carried mostly by Asian tiger mosquitoes, could be introduced into Georgia. For your long-term safety, and that of your family and friends, it is important to limit exposure to mosquito bites. Use insect repellents that contain DEET when going places where mosquitoes are present. There are also many companies offering mosquito control for your yard. These are very effective, though make sure the company practices integrated pest control methods when treating. This will help eliminate mosquitoes and prevent them from coming back.

For your longterm safety, and that of your family and friends, it is important to limit exposure to mosquito bites.

Rick Coughlin is the owner of The Mosquito Authority. Email him at rick@bugsbite.com.

Introducing Dr. Jordan Tate! â&#x20AC;˘ Double Board Certified in Pain Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. â&#x20AC;˘ Trained at Emory University and the Mayo Clinic. Pain Solutions specializes in treating complex pain conditions, back pain, neck pain, and joint pain.

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770-590-1078

Schedule Your Appointment Today! Thomas E. Hurd, M.D. | Marvin D. Tark, M.D. David W. Gale, M.D. | Michael D. Schaufele, M.D. Virlyn L. Bishop, M.D. | Jordan L. Tate, M.D.

CANTON | CARTERSVILLE HIRAM | MARIETTA | WOODSTOCK

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Attention Sciatica And Low Back Pain Sufferers……

Could One Hour With Our Doctors Give You The Answer To Your Disc Pain? Now, in Acworth, GA, Dr. Erin Arnold, D.C. & Dr. Amy Valente, D.C. have what may be the most important breakthrough in non-surgical back pain treatment. Before and after MRI studies have shown disc bulges shrink in size – even with the most painful cases of L4-L5 & L5-S1 herniations. If you’ve had disc problems for years, recently injured your back, or you’re suffering with sciatica, you must hear about these new studies. Scientific studies tell us that spinal discs are responsible for most of the aches and pains people suffer from. Discs act like a cushion between our backbones and allow for a space at each level so the nerves can exit the spinal column. When these discs get injured or wear out from bad posture, they begin to degenerate and cause pain. Bulging and herniations begin to form, pressing on the nerve roots. If the herniations occur at L4-L5, they can severely compromise the large sciatic nerve, causing muscle weakness, tingling, and severe pain. The most common invasive treatment for disc herniations is surgery. This costs quite a bit of money. Even with health insurance the patient is left with their own portion of the bill, in excess of $10,000-$15,000, and sometimes more. The recovery time and missed work can be anywhere from 3 to 6 months, not to mention the obvious severe risks associated with all surgery. But here’s the biggest problem… there is a high failure rate of back surgery. One medical study found that on average, 53% of L5-S1 back surgeries fail to produce relief of symptoms (International Orthop 1987.) Do You Have A Disc Problem? If you experience any of the following in your back or neck, chances are your pain is due to a disc bulge, herniation or degeneration: • A vice-like squeezing feeling in your back • Sitting causes back or leg pain • Stabbing pain at the belt line or in your neck • Can’t turn over in bed without hurting • Numbness in your toes or fingers • Fire down your legs • Searing pain radiates into your arm • Prickling in your leg or toes Finally, Some Good News…… If you’ve been suffering with back pain or arm/leg pain caused by a disc bulge, disc herniation or squashed or compressed discs. Until recently, the only advice for many of you suffering in pain was to try what you’ve been told: • Try exercising • Try physical therapy • Try pain medications • Try muscle relaxers • Try pain shots • Try dangerous back surgery • Just live with it If you’re like most, none of these have worked for you or you are afraid of what could happen if you do try some of these. Exercising makes you hurt more, pain medications and muscle relaxers cover up the problem and give you side effects. Pain shots can cause more pain, don’t work or don’t last very long or FIX the problem, back surgery didn’t work, or made you worse. Or maybe you were one of the lucky ones that back surgery actually helped, but now the problem is back with a vengeance. Whatever your situation, you owe it to yourself to check into a Breakthrough Computerized Non-Surgical Treatment

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

for back pain and sciatic or leg pain caused by a bulging, herniated or squashed disc or discs. It has helped hundreds of people who were suffering just like you. This new treatment machine we are calling “the squashed disc machine.” How “Good” Discs become “Bad” Discs Over time the discs in your back tend to get squashed or compressed, especially if you’ve played certain sports when younger or have a job that requires lots of sitting or standing in one place for long periods of time. Car accidents, lifting things, very physical jobs just to name a few. It’s kind of like a cookie with cream filling, and the cream filling will start to ooze out from between the sides of the cookie if pressure is applied on top of the cookie (like gravity on our spines). Eventually this happens to a lot of us. Statistics show over 80% of Americans will suffer with back pain some time in their life. Spinal decompression treatments are very gentle. In fact, every once in a while I even catch a patient sleeping during treatment! How Does This Machine Work? Haven’t you ever had the thought…”Gosh, if somebody could just pull me apart…I would feel a whole lot better.” Yeah, we know you have. And it kind of makes a bit of sense. Well someone else, actually a medical manufacturer, back pain specialists, neurosurgeons and engineers have come up with just that. A machine that gently pulls you apart, stretches the disc to a certain point that causes a drop in pressure inside the disc (like a little vacuum in the middle of the cream filling) causing the cream filling to suck back in! You’ll simply lie on your stomach or back, whichever is comfortable, and then a specialized belt is gently put around your waist. We’ll set the machine to focus on your problem area – then the advanced decompression computer system will do the rest. Most patients feel better with just a few treatments, and best of all there will be no dangerous drugs, no invasive procedures, and no painful exercises. Does Decompression really work? Absolutely! When you come in we will provide you with studies that show why decompression is a preferred method of treatment. But what provides the best “proof” on how well decompression works is what patients say about it: Just Listen to What Our Patients Had to Say: I started at North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute for pain in my low back that traveled down my right leg. The pain felt like a burning sensation down my leg and numbness into my toes. I was unable to walk my normal 5 miles. Since starting the spinal decompression therapy I am now able to walk again without any pain. The pain and numbness down my right leg is completely alleviated. I was surprised to find that I am even sleeping better at night and that the tension in my upper back has also been relieved. The staff here has treated my great and is very caring! Thanks Bill Norman “Before I started getting spinal decompression therapy I was having severe pain in my low back and numbness down my leg constantly. I had been suffering with this for 3 years. I had two nerve abrasions, multiple steroid shots in my back, pain killers, PT and water therapy and nothing worked. After the first spinal decompression treatment I could stand up straight with very little pain. I can now sleep through the night and exercise again. I am 90-100% better and I am so thankful I found this office.” Thanks, John Ratledge

Dr. Amy Valente As you can see, spinal decompression has a high success rate with helping disc herniations, sciatica, and back pain. In just a matter of weeks you could be playing golf, enjoying your love life, or traveling again. The Single Most Important Solution To Your Sciatica and Back Pain It’s time for you to find out if spinal decompression will be your sciatic and back pain solution. For 15 days only, we’re running a very special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for spinal decompression. What Does This Offer Include? Everything we normally do in our new patient evaluation. Just call before July 15th, and here’s what you’ll get… • An in-depth consultation about your health and wellbeing where the doctor will listen…really listen…to the details of your case. • A complete neuromuscular examination. • A full set of specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms. • A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • An extensive review of your MRI. • You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, like is has been for so many other patients. Until July 15th, you can get everything listed here for $20. The normal price for this type of evaluation including x-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking us up on this offer. Here’s What To Do Now: Due to the expected demand for this treatment, we suggest calling our office at once at 678-574-5678.

CALL TODAY! 678-574-5678 North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 3451 Cobb Pkwy, Ste. 4 Acworth, GA 30101

Pet Sensitivity to Summertime Fireworks BY LEISA JENNINGS

Summertime is here and so are the days of barbecues and outdoor activities with friends and family that often conclude with a beautiful fireworks display. For many pets fireworks can be a terrifying experience. Noise sensitivity is a common behavioral disorder in dogs. Sources of noise include thunder, fireworks, engines and gunshots. These sensitivities can be classified as fears, phobias or anxieties. The bottom line is many pets do not experience a joyful celebration. Dogs display a large range of reactions. Some are not fazed by the explosions, while others panic to the extent of jumping through closed windows. The majority of reactions usually fall somewhere in the middle and may include hyper-salivation, panting, increased vigilance, pacing, freezing, trembling, whining, hiding, urinating, defecating and vomiting. The cause of noise phobias can be the result of multiple factors. Our petsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; noise phobias may develop as a learned response to an unpleasant experience or result from inadequate socialization. Phobias often have genetic roots as well. Many owners report that the phobia develops over time with no history of a traumatic noise experience. In addition, we often unknowingly reinforce these behaviors by

providing well-intended attention or affection in an attempt to calm or reassure our pets. What we are actually doing is praising or rewarding an undesirable behavior. There is no reason for your pet to experience fireworkrelated fear and stress. Unlike thunderstorms, fireworks are predictable. We typically know when they are going to occur and should plan accordingly. There is a wide range of treatments available. The solution may be as simple as avoiding fireworks. However, that may be difficult or impossible at times. If your pet experiences only a mild fear, an asneeded medication may be all that is needed. More severe phobias require extensive multifaceted therapy. Treatment will often include environmental management, behavior modification and medication. True phobias are best assessed by your veterinarian, not trainers. Inappropriate treatment may exacerbate certain conditions. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate trainer or a veterinary behavioral specialist if warranted.

Noise sensitivity is a common behavioral disorder in dogs. Sources of noise include thunder, fireworks, engines and gunshots.

Dr. Leisa Jennings received her doctor of veterinary medicine in 2006 at the University of Georgia. She currently works as a small companion animal practitioner at BridgeMill Animal Hospital.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Health & Wellness

Questions and Answers About Gingivitis BY DR. SCOTT MERRITT

What is gingivitis? It’s inflammation of the gum tissue. It commonly involves red or purple gums that are painful to the touch, and may also produce bad breath (halitosis). Individuals with gingivitis often experience minor bleeding during or after brushing and flossing. Why is it harmful? Aside from the unattractive appearance of gingivitis, early-stages of the disease are not terribly harmful, and can be reversed by visiting your dental office for a professional cleaning. However, if left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. For example, gingivitis often creates separation between the teeth and gums, which can lead to periodontal disease and tooth decay and loss. What causes it? There can be many causes of gingivitis. Plaque and tartar build up on the tooth surface, and travel downward past the gum line. It’s important to note that gums attach to teeth at a much lower point than the gum edges we see when we look in the mirror. This forms a small space called a sulcus. When food and bacteria get trapped in that sulcus, it can cause gum infection. Therefore, lack of adequate and proper oral hygiene is a major cause of gingivitis. In addition, the condition can be the result of smoking, chewing tobacco, taking certain medications or poorly-fitted dental appliances. Dentists pay special attention to gingivitis because it can also indicate more serious medical problems, including

diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiac conditions. How is it diagnosed? Gingivitis can be diagnosed a few ways: one way is by visual examination, and specifically, by paying special attention to the condition of the gums and detecting foul-smelling breath. A dentist can also detect gingivitis by using a periodontal probe, which measures the pocket depth of each tooth. X-rays are also an effective method for identifying gingivitis; they provide an image of bone level at a specific point in time that can be compared with earlier images. The more bone loss X-rays show, the greater the potential problem. What are the treatment options? Often times, gingivitis can be eliminated by better brushing and flossing habits, as well as regular quality dental care. More advanced cases may require procedures, such as root planing and scaling (which some people call a deep cleaning), or surgery involving bone or tissue grafts. Make sure your dentist and hygienist check your gums at every visit.

Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.

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For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770592-6056 • downtownwoodstock.org/downtown-buzz Presentation:

July 31 Topic: Woodstock Planning Department Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Aching Back? You’re Not Alone BY DR. JOHN J. MOSS

The No. 1 reason people miss work time is the common cold. Do you know the second reason? You are right if you guessed back pain. You and about 80 percent of Americans are likely to experience it at some point during adulthood. Back pain remains the most common cause of disability in people under the age of 45. There’s no replacement for a healthy back. If you plan to garden, do strenuous activities, or if you plan to sit at your desk and work, there are devices, gear and equipment that can replace the need for repetitive manual lifting that often causes back injuries. Need a lift? If you’re lifting or carrying objects: • Use help when lifting heavy objects and to lighten loads, especially when lifting oddly shaped things. • Make a plan for where you will place the object and have a clear path before you lift it. • Bend at the knees not at the back, and turn to face the object rather than twist while lifting. • Carry items close to the body. • Use hydraulics and hoists to lift heavy items, when possible. • Use back braces and supporting devices. Change your routine Here are routine activities that help protect and strengthen the back and may prepare you for handling physically demanding work: • Strengthen the core muscles of your body through regular exercise. • Follow a daily stretching program to maintain flexibility. • Practice proper posture, especially when seated. • Sleep on your back with a supportive mattress and pillows to maintain proper spine alignment. Stomach and side sleeping can misalign the spine and cause long-term problems. In addition, when you’re working at a computer, place your computer monitor directly in front of you about 20 to 30 inches away. The top of your screen should be at or below eye level. Your back is one of your greatest assets. Take time to invest in your back and protect yourself against dangerous tasks. Also, work on creating daily habits that increase your strength and flexibility. If you have chronic back pain, use methods and technology to ease the most arduous tasks. Consult a spine specialist who can suggest safe solutions for your everyday work tasks.

Dr. John J. Moss is medical director at the Northside Hospital Spine Center in Canton at 120 Oakside Court. 404-459-1809. www.northside.com/spine.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Health & Wellness

I’ve Come a Long Way, Baby! BY JAN HENRIQUES AU. D.

It’s hard for me to believe that August will mark my 30th year as a practicing audiologist. This profession relies heavily on technology, and I’ve seen a tremendous amount of development in hearing aid devices, in the way they are fit to the patient, and in testing that’s done for hearing and balance disorders. As a new graduate in 1985, I dreaded fitting hearing aids. The only people who were fit were those with moderate- tosevere/profound hearing loss, and most of them did not have good results. Hearing aids were loud, and amplified everything. Most hearing impaired individuals did not benefit from their devices. My first love regarding my profession involved testing patients for ear tumors, balance or hearing disorders, and providing ENT physicians with diagnostic information to help with treatment plans. When the testing involved a child, it was both heartbreaking and rewarding to test deaf babies, and then be the first professional to share the results with the child’s parents. Before the technology existed to discern hearing issues, children would often be misdiagnosed, resulting in improper or ineffective treatment. I remember the first time I used a personal computer to adjust a hearing aid. It was 1995, and required attending a threeday workshop. I never really had hands-on experience with a computer, so this was very overwhelming but exciting at the same time. Before computers, we had to use a tiny screwdriver

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

to adjust basic elements like loudness, bass and treble. It wasn’t a very accurate method, but it was all that we had. These days, it’s hard to imagine treating patients without using a computer to program, adjust and verify fittings. I have certainly evolved over the years. Now I love to fit hearing aids because I know I am truly giving someone the gift of hearing. It’s all worthwhile when I see patients’ faces light up when they hear sounds they haven’t heard in years, or when they tell me that I’ve truly changed their lives. It is most rewarding when I diagnose vertigo, and can point someone in the right direction for the proper treatment — or, in some cases, treat myself. Thank you to all of my patients over the years who have truly given me a full and wonderful career. I look forward to helping many more in the future.

August will mark my 30th year as a practicing audiologist.

Dr. Henriques, a board certified audiologist and lead provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock, has been practicing since 1985.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Health & Wellness

The Possible Costs of Summer Fun BY DR. MITCHELL GREXA D.C.

The Fourth of July—the heart of the summer—is a fading memory. The hot days and balmy nights, family vacations or weekends at the lake—they all add up to fun times in the summer. This article is for those of you who are not curled up on the couch reading a good book or playing video games in the air conditioning. This one is for those of you that get out and do things. Activities such as skiing, wake boarding, hiking, cycling and skateboarding can lead to obvious gross traumas to the body. Gross traumas are those that would require emergency room visits and possibly casts and/or stitches. A chiropractor considers trauma as a force that is absorbed by the body that results in a change of tissue location and tissue integrity. Using this definition, by the age of 13 we will have suffered, on average, 1,000 or more traumas. The lower impact and less noticeable traumas

Activities such as skiing, wake boarding, hiking, cycling and skateboarding can lead to obvious gross traumas to the body.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

are normally the ones that go untreated and develop into a symptomatology later in life. Chiropractors address these types of traumas and their resulting pathology on a daily basis, by detecting small and subtle misalignments of the spine in reference to the pelvis and the cranium. Only 20 percent of your nerves feel pain the other 80 percent provide function so you can have loss of function without pain. In fact, pain is normally the last cry for your body to get help. If you are in pain, you have most likely experienced a loss of function that your body has been adapting to and compensating for until it can no longer work properly. Remember, there is no amount of pain that is normal. So, if you are walking down the hall and stumble over a toy, or you’re out on the lake and fall while water skiing, you have most likely suffered a trauma. Don’t let too much time pass before seeking treatment.

Dr. Grexa graduated from Life College in 1994 with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, and practices in Canton. He also is a wellness consultant.

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One of the Most Advanced Veterinary Facilities in the State We offer the most progressive and innovative options in the industry, so you don’t doubt that you are getting the best possible care. The procedures we use aren’t readily available in other clinics, and provide the most noninvasive methods with faster recovery. Among those services are therapeutic lasers, in-house diagnostics, CO2 laser technology, highly specialized surgery equipment for bloodless procedures, endoscopic surgery, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Chamber, and advanced blood monitoring. We will guide you along every step of your pet’s recovery and are always available with answers, allowing you to make the most informed decisions for your family. We hope that you are supremely satisfied with our amazing advancements in technology and affordable pricing for premium services.

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Health & Wellness

Gluten-Free Lifestyle Cured Anxiety BY TONI ANN ISLES

As I sat shaking and nauseous, chest tight and vision distorted, I told my husband to “never let me forget this moment.” In the midst of a panic attack, I kicked myself for bringing this nightmare on again. I decided to go gluten-free six months prior to this episode and, in a moment of indiscretion and curiosity, I decided to try gluten again in the form of a whole wheat wrap. Bad idea. For as long as I can remember, I have suffered from anxiety and persistent nausea. My husband—a natural health guru of sorts—suggested I try the GF diet. About a month into glutenfree living, my nausea and anxiety subsided. The panic attacks lessened and then vanished. I was free! My whole wheat wrap experiment and the subsequent panic attack reminded me of my pre-GF life. And I never want to go back. The gluten-free diet is constantly under attack and criticism. One day an article will cite a recent study and condemn GF-ers as fad-loving fools. The next day a new article debuts, cites yet another study, and supports those same “fools.” I’ve read all of these articles and this is what I know: Going gluten-free helped cure my anxiety, and it might help you. If you have ever suffered from a chronic anxiety condition, such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder or depression, it may be worth a trip down the GF aisle. You might not have celiac disease (the predominant diagnosis

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

that necessitates a GF lifestyle), but you may suffer from gluten sensitivity. While researchers are not fully clear on how or why, it’s believed that gluten negatively affects the nervous system in gluten sensitive individuals. Newer studies indicate that diet affects gut health and gut health affects the brain. Gluten impacts the immune system and triggers inflammation in the gut in people who are sensitive to gluten. This wreaks havoc on the body’s tissues, including the brain. Do I want a full life, free from anxiety and panic, or do I want to eat bread? The choice was easy for me. Our diets have the power to make or break us. And the beauty is it’s our decision what we put into our bodies. Choose wisely.

If you have ever suffered from a chronic anxiety condition, it may be worth a trip down the GF aisle.

Toni Ann Isles is a freelance writer, executive assistant, dog- and nature-lover, and amateur photographer. www.toniannisles.com.

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SIXES LIVING | July 2015

School & Sports

Fun Day on Farm For Contest Winners and Families More than 3,600 students from Cherokee County schools participated in a coloring contest sponsored by Cherokee County Farm Bureau to promote careers in agriculture. First and second place winners and their families enjoyed a day at Cagle’s Family Farm. The children took a hay ride and a tour of the farm, learned about planting a vegetable garden and watched a honey beehive demonstration.

Winners with their pictures: (Front row from left): Mackenzie Russell, Edalina Medez-Perez, Keegan Ferguson, Lena Sater, Gabriella Adams, Esmeralda Gomez, Tyler Bickerton, Taylor Bell, Bailey Roussel and Emily Jacobs. Back row: Melrose Felix, Jayden DeAngelis, Kenneth Bartholomew, Isabella Zalokar, Jocelyn Bandy, Ava Salmon, Wyatt McVicker, Aiden Johnson, Skylar Lopresti ,Cari Jill Adams, Cate Harmon, Lilly Ferraraccio and Max Schwemler. Not pictured: Emma Grace Stephens, Austin Sandora, Wyatt Hirschy and Sofia Conway.

Students Recognized with Cindy Richards Woody Awards Ten students were recently recognized with Cindy Richards Woody Awards. The annual awards are presented by the Canton Kroger supermarket and the family of the late Ms. Woody, who lived with cystic fibrosis until her death at age 24 in 1995, after fulfilling her lifelong dream to become a teacher. She was known for her strong will and love of life and graduated sixth in her class at Cherokee High School, Overall winner Greer Unterreiner. earned an academic and softball scholarship to college, graduated from Shorter College with top honors and began working as a teacher at Sixes Elementary in 1993. “We select students who we feel best fit the life that Cindy portrayed. These nominees are expected to excel in academics, sports, morals and citizenship,” said Kathryn Laird of the Canton Kroger. Winners were Ella Walker (Avery Elementary), Madison Bonitatibus (Canton Elementary STEM Academy), Riley Crawford (Hasty Elementary Fine Arts Academy), Hannah Rivers (Hickory Flat Elementary), Katherine Vansword (Holly Springs Elementary STEM Academy), Megan Kirby (Indian Knoll Elementary), Stella Belfield (Knox Elementary), Emily Beasley (Liberty Elementary), Addison Spell (Macedonia Elementary) and Greer Cindy Richards Woody. Unterreiner (Sixes Elementary). 50

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Free Summer Breakfast, Lunch Program Cherokee County School District is participating in the USDA Seamless Summer Option program, offering free meals on weekdays from June 8 to July 24 for children age 18 and younger. This program targets the almost one-third of students in Cherokee County who qualify for free or reduced meals during the school year. For more information, contact Susan Turner, supervisor of school nutrition, at susan.turner@ cherokee.k12.ga.us or at 770-479-4268. Distribution Sites for 2015 YMCA Canton 151 Waleska St. Canton 30114 Breakfast: 8:30 - 9 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - noon

East Gate Mobile Home Park 6310 Bells Ferry Road Acworth 30102 Lunch: 11:30 - 11:45 a.m.

YMCA Woodstock 201 E. Bells Ferry Road Woodstock 30189 Breakfast: 8:15 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: Noon - 12:30 p.m.

Hidden Falls Mobile Home Park 6359 Bells Ferry Road Acworth 30102 Lunch: 10:45 – 11:20 a.m.

Parents, Be Aware of Social Media Vulnerability BY MARK KISSEL

The summer months provide opportunities for children to spend more time on the computer, iPad and cell phone, and engaged in social media sites. In doing so, your social media-connected child is exposed to potential sexual predators in the metro-Atlanta area, and a billion more people on the Internet. Most parents believe their children are safe within the confines of their home when, in reality, the global nature and anonymity of the Internet makes its use by sexual predators a real danger for unsuspecting kids. Often, predators lurk in countries overseas and beyond the reach of local law enforcement. Children freely share personal information about themselves on social media sites, allowing the potential predator to create a bond with a child, working toward creating an “us vs. them” relationship that can create a wedge between the parent and the child. Sexual predators can be very skilled at grooming the relationship with children by giving them attention and making them feel special. Once a strong comfort level between the two has been established, many predators ask their victims to upload pictures of a sexual nature. In a survey conducted by the National Crime Prevention Council, nearly 80 percent of teens said they did not have parental rules about Internet use, and only 11 percent told their parents about either being bullied or seeing something disturbing online.

There are safety precautions that parents can take to minimize the risk: 1. Talk with your child about cyber safety; discuss the potential threats that exist online, and what your child should do if he or she encounters anything strange or unusual. 2. Review the browser history, social media messages, posts, blogs and similar sites with your child. 3. Turn on the parental controls on your child’s computer or device, to filter content and lock out the ability to download applications without your permission. If you do not have parental controls in place, research parent control programs and apps that you can use. 4. Stay informed by reviewing such sites as www. commonsensemedia.org or www.cybersafetycop.com before you or your child download any social media applications. Parents should have a good understanding of every application downloaded to your child’s device, and what the privacy settings are.

Chief of Police Mark Kissel has served the Cherokee County School District since 1999 and has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Faith

Stepping Up for Others Can Make a Difference BY DR. JOE MCKECHNIE

In 1947, African-American Jackie Robinson broke baseball’s color barrier by becoming the first black player in the Major Leagues. He played second base for the Brooklyn Dodgers. While he broke baseball’s color barrier, this event didn’t come without its share of harassment, death threats and overt racism. Many of the players on his team signed a petition, stating that they refused to play on a team with a black man. Robinson did play and endured a lot of abuse and taunting from the fans. Robinson later acknowledged that he thought about quitting baseball – it was simply too painful to face people who hated him because of the color of his skin. In May of 1947, the Dodgers were playing a road game in Cincinnati, when a group of fans began yelling racial slurs at Jackie Robinson, and it really started to rattle him. Pee Wee Reece, a well-respected shortstop for the Brooklyn Dodgers, slowly walked over and put his arm around Jackie Robinson. It’s a gesture that is etched in the memory of fans and one that Pee Wee Reece’s gesture toward Jackie Robinson was commemorated in a statue.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

bonded the teammates for life. In Brooklyn, there is a statue that commemorates that moment. Robinson would go on to have a stellar 10-year major league career – he was named Rookie of the Year in 1947, was named to the All-Star team for six consecutive years, and in 1949 he won the National League’s Most Valuable Player Award. Robinson would go on to play in six World Series and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962. But what if Pee Wee Reece hadn’t shown support for Robinson? It’s good to know that there are people who’ve got our backs. In Acts 4 we read about a man named Joseph, which was a common name. He was called Barnabas. He was a man of deep Jewish heritage but was among the first to help the early followers of Christ. Meanwhile, there was Saul, a former Jewish terrorist on a mission to kill Christians. But Saul had an encounter with Jesus and saw his life changed. He became a follower of Christ, and even started going by the name Paul (his Greek name, unlike Saul, which was Jewish). Acts 9:26 tells us that when Saul came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that Saul really was a disciple. And this is where Barnabas steps in… Verses 27-28 say that Barnabas took Saul and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul, on his journey, had seen the Lord, and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how

continued on page 62

Dr. Joe McKechnie is the senior pastor of Sixes United Methodist Church, and a member of the Sixes Living community board. Email him at joe@sixesumc.org.

Welcome to

photo by Darleen Prem

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK

The Outlet Shoppes

T at Atlanta at Saks

Fifth Avenue Off Fifth

- park in marked spaces only - parking in Woodstock UMC lot is M-Sa only - Chatt Tech parking is limited until early 2015

Trolley Routes outlined in red

Chattahoochee Technical College

Parks Cir

Trolley Stop

Public Parking Lots

Rope Mill Rd

Dobbs Rd

Kyle St

On-Street Parking - park in marked spaces only

Woodstock UMC (M-Sa)

Arnold Mill Rd

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Mca

Reeves St

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Hu ar d Rd

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CSB Bank (after 5PM)

Dupre

L iley

Main

Mark et S t

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Fowler St

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Sat 1:45-4:15

Wheel

Oak St

Hicko

Reformation Brewery

T Fri 6:00-8:15

Elm

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to Cre

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To GA Hwy 140

Map

Pinehill

Park at City Center

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City Center

Pkwy

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To I-575 Exit 8

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Download the Visit Woodstock App for info on downtown businesses and events!

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Downtown Woodstock

Woodstock’s Summer Concert Series

The entertainment for June’s evening out was Eliminator KC, a ZZ Top Tribute Band and special guest Highway 55. Photos by Darleen Prem.

Dog Days of Summer

Rob McMillan of Rob’s Rescues (center) was a judge in the contest.

The coolest trick contest was a popular draw for the June Friday Night Live event in downtown Woodstock. 54

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Sparky takes advantage of a photo opp with Rob.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY SPIRITS RESERV. Camasini’s Italian Sicilian Grill Italian no $ $-$$ no Beer/Wine yes 9425 Highway 92 #100 770-672-6996 Canyons American no $ $ open Beer/Wine no 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsburgercompany.com Modern no $$ $$$ open Full bar 8 persons + Century House Tavern 125 E Main St. American 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com Wood-fired no $$ $$$ open Full bar yes Fire Stone Pizza & Grill 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com Freight Kitchen & Tap Southern Sat./Sun. $$ $$$ open Full bar no 251 E Main St. Brunch 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com Hot Dog Heaven American no $ no open no no 8588 Main St. 770-591-5605 Tapas/Sushi no Fri./Sat. $$ open Full bar yes Ice Martini & Sushi Bar 380 Chambers St. only 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com Ipps Pastaria & Bar Italian no $$ $$ open Full bar no 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com J Christopher’s Diner $-$$ $-$$ no open no Weekends 315 Chambers St. only 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com BBQ & no $-$$ $-$$ open Beer no J Miller’s Smokehouse Southern 156 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-592-8295 Sandwiches jmillerssmokehouse.com Magnolia Thomas Southern Sunday no $$$$ open Beer/Wine yes 108 Arnold Mill Rd. Brunch 678-445-5789 magnoliathomas.com Pure Taqueria Mexican Sat./Sun. $$ $$ open Full bar 6 persons+ 405 Chambers St. Brunch 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock Reel Seafood Seafood Sunday $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar limited 8670 Main St. Brunch 770-627-3006 Salt Factory Pub Gastropub no $$ $$-$$$ open Full bar no 8690 Main St. (678) 903-6225 Tea Leaves & Thyme English no $$ no closed no yes 8990 Main St. Tea room 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com Vingenzo’s Italian no $$ $$$ closed Full bar yes 105 E Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com d What A Dog Chicago style no $ $ open no no eA 9595 Highway 92 Se n pg. 36 Hotdogs o 770-485-3411 SIXES LIVING | July 2015

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

Casual and Upscale Dine-In Restaurants

Downtown Woodstock

Experience Elm Street Acting as Playwright BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW

“Once upon a time in a faraway land, where magic and mystery go hand in hand, lived a man and his wife, with a normal life, in a cottage built for two.” That is the first line in a new play at Elm Street Cultural Arts Village this month. And I wrote it. I’ve written a hundred small scripts and plays in my 13 years of teaching theater, but never did I feel more ecstatic taking on writing a main stage production. I was asked to write “Rapunzel,” and being the huge fairy tale nerd that I am, I immediately began reading many different translations and adaptations of this classic story. The story of “Rapunzel” is made popular by Disney as a princess in a tower taken from her family as an infant, hidden by the witch who kidnapped her, and “rescued” by a bandit. Some of this is true to the classic fairy tale, and some is false. In the original tale, Rapunzel is not a princess. She is taken by a witch only because Rapunzel’s parents stole from this witch, and she isn’t banished to a tower until she is 12 years old. Rapunzel is then rescued by a prince, whom she marries, and only then is she a princess. Most fairy tales are short because they were initially bedtime stories. To lengthen this classic story I leaned on characters and the motivations behind them to make this play creative and intriguing. I also included another Grimm fairy tale that explains Rapunzel’s magical healing powers, which she has in most adaptations. But why did Rapunzel’s parents steal from a witch? What did Rapunzel do for 12 years before being banished to a tower? Why does Rapunzel want to leave the tower? What’s in it for the prince? Is the witch really bad? As an actor, I ask myself these questions to inspire my character. As a director, I ask these questions of my actors to inspire them. As a playwright, these are the kinds of questions that inspire me to write. “Rapunzel” is a hair-raising tale like you’ve never seen before. There’s action, romance and magic. From swordfighting bandits to shadow puppeteers to hair that drags across the floor, “Rapunzel” is entertaining and engaging for all ages. “Rapunzel” will be performing matinees at Elm Street from July 15 to 29.

‘Rapunzel’ is a hair-raising tale like you’ve never seen before. There’s action, romance and magic.

CITY CENTER • WOODSTOCK

JULY 15 - 29

SAT/SUN AT 2:00PM Wednesdays AT 10:00AM

Call or visit us on the web to learn about our

FALL CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG 678.494.4251

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

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

A Q&A With Tourism Director BY KYLE BENNETT

I have worked in downtown Woodstock for the past nine years and have seen a lot of changes. I get many questions about my job and thought I’d share the answers.

scavenger hunt. This year the scavenger hunt will take place Aug. 21-Sept. 5 and I am excited to start working on what this year’s hunt will feature.

Does downtown Woodstock have tourism? The answer to this question is a big yes. We see a wide range of people visit Woodstock, especially the downtown area. Perhaps the most common are day trippers from cities in the region who are visiting to check out the great shopping and dining that downtown Woodstock has to offer. But we also get visitors from much farther away. Just in the past couple of days at the Woodstock Visitors Center, we have welcomed guests from Minnesota and Massachusetts. We also regularly welcome families who are in town for several days for their children’s sports tournaments in the area.

What is the biggest change you have seen since you started working here in 2006? That would be downtown Woodstock becoming a foodie destination. Since I was hired, the number of restaurants downtown has grown from five to 21. It is not just the quantity. The quality of the restaurants is amazing.

What is your favorite event to work on? It is hard to pick a favorite. I have had the pleasure of being involved with the Woodstock Farmers Market since it started and the same is true for the Friday Night Live series. I love both of those events so much. But I have to say my favorite event to work on is the Discover Woodstock Scavenger Hunt. It is a lot of fun to select 100 locations, features and events in the city to highlight in a scavenger hunt. Each year I have been amazed by the passion of the teams that participate in the

What do you hope to see next? I am excited to see the expansion of the trail network throughout the city of Woodstock, which will enable more residents to walk or bike to downtown Woodstock. I am also very excited to see the next phases of the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village develop. Both of these projects are going to have such a positive impact.

Kyle Bennett is the director of tourism for the Woodstock Downtown Development Authority. He can be reached at kbennett@woodstockga.gov.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Cherokee Photography Club Thanks to everyone who competed in the May competition, “Gates & Fences” and congratulations to the winners! Digital Projection:

If you placed in either the color or monochromatic print category, please send a digital file of your image to: deankelley@windstream.net

1st Becky Sapp “Home on the Range”

3rd Allen Quandee “Spires at Oakland”

2nd Kim Bates “Greener Pastures”

HM Vicki Sellers “Wall of Fame”

Color Prints:

1st Naomi Shively “Country Fence” 58

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

2nd Karen Beedle “Bringing You In”

3rd Eillene Kirk “Barnyard Fence”

HM John Clemmer “Grate Reflection”

Monochromatic:

1st Martin Longstaff “Bonaventure 1”

3rd Karen Beedle “Fenced In”

2nd John Clemmer “Slity Lit”

HM Kim Bates “Down the Road”

The Cherokee Photography Club meets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly contest, that meeting is held on the second Monday of the month. Both meetings are from 7-9 p.m. and held at the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 North Street, Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 or email him at kbphotoart@comcast.net. SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Reference

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM WOODSTOCK, GA

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

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

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

Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park and is an easy flat trail on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass (2016) - This approx. 1.2 mile trail will connect the Towne Lake community to Downtown along the banks of Noonday Creek. It will begin at the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills south. Rubes Creek Trail (2016) - This 1 mile paved trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Stepping Up for Others continued from page 52

in Damascus, he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. Paul and Barnabas would go on to start several churches. Paul preached to tens of thousands of people, and he wrote more books of the Bible than anyone else. He had a profound influence on Christianity, and thus the world. When no one else believed in Saul, Barnabas stepped up. Any of us would be blessed to have a friend like Barnabas. He fought for Saul. Can we say that we have someone who would fight for us? How do we fight for those around us? Through your actions, reactions, attitudes and words, can people see God at work in you? What type of influence and impact are you having on the lives of others?

Preserve & Protect the Old continued from page 21

preserved their past continue to enjoy tourism…tourism simply won’t go to a city or town that has lost its soul.” We are fortunate in Cherokee County that we still have enough historic buildings to give us “soul” and a unique identity; if we don’t take care to safeguard and find new uses for these historic buildings, Cherokee will lose its appeal.

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Incentives are available to make investing in historic buildings financially feasible and public/private partnerships can work to bring transforming results to our communities. If we can integrate our historic buildings into new developments, we will have the best of both worlds, and a bright future.

The Dark Secrets of a Valedictorian continued from page 35

dangers of this world and, even more, from the dangers of their own poor decisions. As the audience laughed and waited for Joseph to finish his thought, I wondered if something dishonorable was about to come out next. Fortunately, Joseph’s speech did not reveal any other unsuspected dark secrets. His message to the Class of 2015 was about showing gratitude to the people who have given us so much. (You can see all three minutes on YouTube, “Joseph Litrel Valedictorian Speech” http://youtu.be/ll5YPWvDOUQ So in keeping with Joseph’s message of gratitude, here is my list of people to whom I am grateful. I am grateful to my wife Ann for giving Joseph his smarts and study habits. I am grateful to Brian Heglund for being Joseph’s friend, and for teaching him about physics and life. I am grateful to Coach Charles Higdon for teaching Joseph about wrestling, and that winning requires hard work. But most of all I am grateful to my son. Thank you, Joseph, for being in my life these past 18 years. And for not saying anything to get yourself tackled from the podium.

Reference

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County Government Building Permits, Business Licenses Commissioners Engineering Office (Traffic Signals) Environmental Health Extension Office Jury Phone Justice Center (Courts, Judges, etc.) Planning & Land Use Senior Services Voter Registration

770-345-0400

www.cherokeega.com 770-721-7810 678-493-6001 678-493-6077 770-479-0444 770-479-0418 770-479-9011 770-479-1953 678-493-6101 770-345-2675 770-479-0407

Taxes

License Plates/Tags, Property Tax – Canton office Woodstock office Renewals online https://mvd.dor.ga.gov/tags/ Tax Assessors/Evaluation

678-493-6400 770-924-4099 678-493-6120

Children and Family

Anna Crawford Children’s Center 770-345-8100 Cherokee County Boys & Girls Club 770-720-7712 Cherokee County Foster & Adoptive Parents Assoc. www.fosteroradopt.org 770-378-0759 Cherokee Family Violence Center 770-479-1804 Cherokee FOCUS 770-345-5483 Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) www.casacherokee.org 770-345-3274 Division of Family & Children Services 770-720-3610 Goshen Valley Boys Ranch www.goshenvalley.org 770-796-4618 Hope Center www.hopectr.com 770-924-0864 MUST Ministries - Cherokee www.mustministries.org 770-479-5397 Never Alone www.neveralone.org 770-363-5272 Next Step Ministries www.nextstepministries.net 770-592-1227 North Georgia Angel House www.angelhousega.com 770-479-9555 North Georgia Pregnancy Center www.ngapregnancy.org 706-253-6303 Papa’s Pantry www.papaspantry.org 770-591-4730 Timothy’s Cupboard Food Bank www.tlcwoodstock.org 770-591-5515

Hospitals

Kennestone North Fulton Northside Hospital — Cherokee

Hotlines — 24-hour help lines

Battered Women Hotline Drug Tip Line (Cherokee Co. Sheriff) Poison Control Center Poison Control Center (outside metro Atlanta) Probate Court Information Line Sexual Assault & Family Violence Center

Parks and Recreation

BridgeMill Athletic Club Callahan Golf Links Cherokee County YMCA Cherokee County Soccer Assoc. www.csaimpact.com

770-793-5000 770-751-2500 770-720-5100 770-479-1703 770-345-7920 404-616-9000 800-222-1222 770-704-2610 770-427-3390 770-345-5500 770-720-1900 770-591-5820 770-704-0187

Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency www.crpa.net. 770-924-7768 (Includes Aquatic Center, Barnett Park, Blankets Creek, Cherokee Mills, Field’s Landing Park, Kenny Askew Park) Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com North Atlanta Soccer Association: www.nasa-ga.org 770-926-4175 SCRA Baseball www.scrabaseball.com Wildlife Action, Inc. www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com 770-924-7464

Pets

Animal Control 678-493-6200 Animal Shelter & Pet Adoptions www.cherokeega-animals.org 770-345-7270 Cherokee County Humane Society www.cchumanesociety.org 770-928-5115 Emergency Veterinary Clinic 770-924-3720 Funds 4Furry Friends 770-842-8893 Lost Pets: www.townelaker.com. (click on lost and found pet button to report missing pet) Pet Buddies Food Pantry www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Community Veterinary Care www.communityveterinarycare.com 678-640-3512

Post Office locations Canton Holly Springs Lebanon Woodstock

770-720-8164 770-345-6318 770-591-9467 770-591-0364

Police Departments

Canton Holly Springs Woodstock Sheriff’s Office www.cherokeega-sheriff.org

770-720-4883 770-345-5537 770-592-6030 678-493-4100

Utilities

Atlanta Gas Light Co. www.aglc.com Canton Water www.canton-georgia.com Cherokee Water & Sewerage Auth. www.ccwsa.com Cobb EMC www.cobbemc.com Georgia Power www.georgiapower.com Woodstock Water www.woodstockga.gov Recycling Center

770-907-4231 770-704-1500 770-479-1813 770-429-2100 888-660-5890 770-926-8852 770-516-4195

Free, Reduced-Price Health Care

Bethesda Community Clinic www.bethesdacommunityclinic.org Cherokee County Health Department www.nghd.org/CherokeeHealth

Urgent Care Facilities

678-880-9654 770-345-7371

M.D. Minor Emergency & Family Medicine, off Riverstone Pkwy, 720 Transit Ave., Suite 101 Canton Northside Cherokee Urgent Care, off exit 11 at I-575 SHEFA Urgent Care 2000 Village Professional Dr. #110 Canton 30114 Wellstar Urgent Care off exit 8, 120 Stonebridge Pkwy. Woodstock, 30189

770-720-7000 678-426-5450 678-661-3166

678-494-2500

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Reference

SIXES AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Business Organizations Canton Cherokee Business and Professional Women’s Club Meets: Noon on third Thursdays at Canton IHOP Contact: Glenda Hinton 770-345-1751 Canton Communicators Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Thursdays at the Canton YMCA Contact: Steven Van Schooten 770-366-8224 www.toastmasters.org Cherokee B2B Network Meets: 8 a.m. second and fourth Thursdays at Best Western, 705 Transit Ave., Canton 30114 Contact: 770-781-3452 www.CherokeeB2B.com The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/ The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations Contact: Edeline Dryden 678-789-6158 http://xperienceconnections.com/spotlight/ woodstock/

Charitable Organizations Ahimsa House Helps victims of domestic violence 24-hours a day who need help getting their pets to safety. Contact: 404-452-6248 www.ahimsahouse.org Angel House Girls Home Is a residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn self-sufficiency. Contact: 770-479-9555 www.angelhousega.com Anna Crawford Children’s Center Is dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect, and protecting and serving children and families through prevention and intervention services. Contact: 678-504-6388 www.cherokeechildadvocates.org Bethany Place Is a transitional home for single women, unwed mothers. Contact: 770-479-9462 www.bethanyplacehome.org CASA for Children Promotes the health and happiness of children impacted by abuse through programs that increase their safety and improve their educational, social and emotional functioning. Contact: 770-345-3274 www.casacherokee.org CCHS Thrift Store Accepts donations and sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth Contact: 770-592-8072 Cherokee Family Violence Center Offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. Contact: 770-479-1703, Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2 www.cfvc.org Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes Challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Contact: Bill Queen 404-441-3508 www.cherokeefca.org Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) Contact: 770-928-5115 or admin@ cchumanesociety.org

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

www.cchumanesociety.org Cherokee FOCUS Works to improve the lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. Contact: Sonia Carruthers 770-345-5483 www.cherokeefocus.org Cherokee County Senior Services Offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. Contact: 770-345-5312 or 770-345-5320 www.cherokeega.com/senior-services Community Veterinary Care Provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. Contact: 678-640-3512 www.communityveterinarycare.com Companion Animal Connection Contact: 678-493-9847 www.adoptapet.com Everyday Angels Offers financial assistance for local families in need. Contact: aaeverydayangels@gmail.com Feed My Lambs, Inc. Provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. Contact: 770-795-9348 office@feedmylambs.net www.feedmylambs.net Forever Fed Is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness in North Georgia by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org Funds 4 Furry Friends Helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. Contact: Gina Jeter 770-842-8893 www.funds4furryfriends.com Georgia Animal Project Based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay and neuter services for dogs and cats throughout North Georgia. Contact: 770-704-PAWS (7297) www.theanimalproject.org Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee Sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org Goshen Valley Boys Ranch Offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. Contact: 770-796-4618 www.goshenvalley.org Green Shelters America Animal rescue group. Contact: 770-712-4077 or GreenSheltersAmerica@ gmail.com www.GreenSheltersAmeric.com Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia Contact: 770-587-9697 www.habitat-ncg.org Harvesting Hope Ministries Gives surgery care packs to children facing liver and kidney failure. Contact: dawn@ harvestinghopeministries.org www.harvestinghopeministries.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch Offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. Contact: Jennifer Simonis 770-633-4451 www.hhyr.org HopeQuest Ministry Group Helps people who struggle intensely with life

dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. Contact: 678-391-5950 www.hqmg.org HOPE Center Offers support for unplanned pregnancy. Contact: 770-924-0864 or info@TheHopeCtr.com www.hopectr.com HOPE Center — Baby & More Thrift Store Offers adult and children’s clothing. Contact: 770-517-4450 www.babyandmorethriftstore.com MUST Ministries Offers groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Parkway. www.mustministries.org National Alliance for Mental Illness Is the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org Never Alone Outreach Provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries Offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. Contact: 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net North Georgia Pregnancy Center Offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. Contact: 706-253-6303 www.ngapregnancy.org Papa’s Pantry Is a year-round local food ministry, which also includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. Contact: Lynne Saunders 770-591-4730 www.papaspantry.org Pet Buddies Food Pantry Helps families in need by providing pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs. Contact: 678-310-9858 petbuddiesfoodpantry.org Safe Kids Cherokee County Provides free child safety seat inspections by appointment. Contact: 770-721-7808 www.cherokeesafekids.org SERV International Operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Also offers mission trips. Contact: 770-516-1108 www.servone.org Volunteer Aging Council Is a nonprofit that helps raise funds for the seniors of Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. Contact: 770-310-3474 www.vac-cherokeega.org

Civic, County Organizations AARP Woodstock Chapter Is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Featherstone’s at Towne Lake Hills. Contact: Rich 770-926-1944

BridgeMill-Sixes Service League Contact: Marlyn Patouillet 770- 345-7941 www.bssl.org Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room) www.saltcherokee.com Canton Lions Club Contact: 678- 224-7878 www.lionsofcanton.org Canton Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. Fridays at Canton IHOP Contact: canton_optimist@hotmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/cantonoptimistclub/ home Canton Rotary Club Meets: Noon Tuesdays at the Cherokee Conference Center at the Bluffs www.cantongarotary.org

Cherokee County Master Gardeners Contact: 770-721-7803 www.caes.uga.edu/extension/cherokee/ mastergardeners Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org Cherokee County Saddle Club Hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) Roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org Cherokee Music Teachers Association Contact: Linda Lokey 770-720-1701 www.cherokeemta.org Cherokee Soccer Association Contact: 770-704-0187 www.csaimpact.com

Cherokee County Historical Society Contact: 770-345-3288 www.rockbarn.org

Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com

Cherokee County Service League (770) 704-5991

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

Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meet: 6: 30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy 20 Contact: Lynda Goodwin, 770-393-1766 or Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com www.pilotinternational.com Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92 Contact: 770-480-4179 Service League of Cherokee County Contact: 770-704-5991 http://serviceleague.net

Political Organizations Cherokee County Democrat Party Meets: 7 p.m. second Thursdays at Holly Springs Depot, 164 Hickory Road, Holly Springs. 8:30 a.m. first Saturdays at IHOP, 3010 Northside Parkway, Canton 30014. Contact: 770- 345-3489 www.cherokeedemocrats.com/d2. Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center, 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. Contact: http://cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party Meets: 9 a.m. second Saturday at Winchesters Woodfire Grill Contact: (678) 809-1411 Cherokee Tea Party Patriots Meets: 4 p.m. third Sunday at Latimer Hall in Woodstock. Contact Conrad Quagliaroli 770- 378-8232 Republican Women of Cherokee County Contact: 678- 520-2236 www.rwccga.com

Recreation & Hobbies Allatoona Gold Panners Periodic events and outings to pan the creeks in the Dahlonega Gold Belt along the Lake. Contact: Rob Kelly rrkelly@bellsouth.net Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com Cherokee Community Chorale A community of singers from all walks of life including housewives, teachers, retired professionals, office managers and professional musicians who love the art of choral singing. Contact: 678-439-8625 www.cherokeechorale.org Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton Contact: 770-704-6244 www.CherokeeArts.org

Kingdom Riders A forming chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. All makes of motorcycles welcome. Les Marmitons Is for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org Wildlife Action, Inc. Is a conservation organization on Allatoona Lake at 2075 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. Contact: 770-924-7464 www.wildlifeactiongeorgia.com Cherokee Senior Softball Association www.seniorsoftball.com Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton www.cherokeechapter.com William G. Long Senior Center Offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock. Contact: 678-445-6518

Support Organizations AA Meetings Canton Meets: 9:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday, 7 p.m. Monday at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock Meets: 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. http://www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton Meets: 8pm Thursday at St Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock Meets: 7pm Tuesday Al-anon and Alateen. 8pm Thursday Al-anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. Contact: Reba. 770-516-3502 www.ga-al-anon.org/district-number.php?district=17 American Heart Association - Cherokee Division Contact: 678-385-2013 American Red Cross Metro Chapter Contact: 770-428-2695 Breast Cancer Support Group Meets: 10 a.m. - noon first Thursday of each month at Northside Hospital—Cherokee, Diabetes Classroom, Educational Center Contact: 404-843-1880 Celebrate Recovery Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups.

Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. Contact: 770-366-7515 Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist Contact: 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House Contact: 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton Contact: 678-764-8660 www.celebraterecovery.com Cherokee County Support Group Provides support for people with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, etc. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Rd, Holly Springs Contacts: Stacie Collett 404-402-0571, jhmom88@ comcast.net and Christy Stephenson 770-337-0294 christystephenson@msn.com Cherokee County Special Olympics Provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association For pastors and ministry leaders of all Christian denominations. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock www.cherokeeministers.org Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock Contact: Linda Watson 770-793-7818 Georgia Canines for Independence Contact: 404-824-4637, gcidogs@aol.com www.gcidogs.org Grace Valley Ministries Connects pastors by offering small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. Contact: 727-251-7690 info@gracevalleyministries.org www.gracevalleyministries.org Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). Contact: Jeannie 770-919-9275 Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta Chapter For people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings in the Woodstock area. Contact: nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church Contact: Marguerite 678-315-7686 or Megan 770517-0191 MOMS Club of Canton, West GA (serving Canton, Ball Ground, Waleska and Holly Springs) http://momsclubofcantonwest.webs.com MOMS Club of Woodstock - Towne Lake Contact: momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy Contact: 770-924-4777 Unlimited Possibilities Support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center Contact: Kelly 678-677-2589 SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Reference

COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST

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

AME

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

BAPTIST

Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road

River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org

Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net

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

LUTHERAN

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

Celebration of Grace 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 770-503-5050 www.celebrationofgrace.org

Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.lifewaylink.com

Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org

CHURCH OF GOD

Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com

Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org

Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007

New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com

ORTHODOX

Crossroads Primitive Baptist Church 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 www.crossroadspbc.org

Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.com

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

Faith Community 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Heritage Baptist Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.heritagebaptistfellowship.com

Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org

EPISCOPAL

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

JEWISH

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

PRESBYTERIAN

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

Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Road NW, Suite 120, Kennesaw 678-460-7702 www.jewishwoodstock.com

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

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

ROMAN CATHOLIC

Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org

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

Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com

Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org

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

Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org

UNITED METHODIST

Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombchurch.org Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345.5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info

BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org

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

Christian Praise Center 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-924-7532 www.christianpraisecenter.com

North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org

Church at North Gate 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.ngca.org

Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-733-2585 www.mormom.org

Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org

Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.mormon.org Cornerstone Community 503 Hickory Ridge Trail, Suite 160, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock, 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org

Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591- 0837 www.ngumc.org

Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com

Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org

Fivestones Church 155 P Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestoneschurch.info

Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371

Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com

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

OTHERS

Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv

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

Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Trail Hill, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Community Church 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Soul Medicine 3725 Sixes Road Canton Soulmedicinesunday.org Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 400 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Watermarke 2126 Sixes Road, Canton 678-880-9092 www.watermarkechurch.com Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org

Love Community Church 5598 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth

Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org

Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com

Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org

Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com

Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com

Momentum 110 Londonderry Court, Suite 130, Woodstock 678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv

Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Reference

ELECTED & APPOINTED OFFICIALS United States Government President Barack Obama (D)

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20500 www.whitehouse.gov

Cherokee County Board of Commissioners

202-456-1414 fax: 202-456-2461

Sen. David Perdue (R)

202-224-3521 B40D Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 GA: 678-248-6444 perdue.senate.gov

Sen. Johnny Isakson (R)

131 Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington DC 20510 3625 Cumberland Blvd, Suite 970, Atlanta, GA 30339 isakson.senate.gov

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R) District 11

238 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington DC 20515 9898 Highway 92, Suite 100, Woodstock, GA 30188 loudermilk.house.gov

203 State Capitol, 206 Washington St. Atlanta, GA 30334 www.gov.georgia.gov

Commissioners L.B. “Buzz” Ahrens (R) Chairman lbahrens@cherokeega.com

Steve West (R) District 1 Ray Gunnin (R) District 2 rgunnin@cherokeega.com

Brian Poole (R) District 3 202-225-2944 GA: 770-429-1776

bpoole@cherokeega.com

Scott Gordon (R) District 4 sgordon@cherokeega.com

Cherokee County Coroner 404-652-7003

Earl W. Darby

Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Roger Garrison (R)

498 Chattin Drive Canton, GA 30115 rdgarrison@cherokeega.com

Sen. Brandon Beach (R) District 21

404-463-1378

Rep. Michael Caldwell (R) District 20

678-523-8570

Cherokee County Tax Commissioner

Rep. Scot Turner (R) District 21

678-576-2644

2780 Marietta Highway, Canton, GA 30114 slittle@cherokeega.com

Rep. Wes Cantrell (R) District 22

770-722-7526

brandon.beach@senate.ga.gov

michael@CaldwellforHouse.com scot@turnerforhouse.com

wes@cantrellforhouse.com

Rep. Mandi Ballinger (R) District 23

404-656-0254

Rep. John Carson (R) District 46

404-656-0287

mandi.ballinger@house.ga.gov john.carson@house.ga.gov

Cherokee County Courts 678-493-6270 678-493-6260 678-493-6240

State Court Judge W. Alan Jordan Judge A. Dee Morris

Superintendent, Dr. Frank Petruzielo 221 West Main St., Canton, GA 30114 drp@cherokee.k12.ga.us

www.cherokeega-sheriff.org 678-493-4100 fax: 678-493-4228

678-493-6400 fax: 678-493-6420 www.cherokee.k12.ga.us 770-479-1871 fax: 770-479-1236

Kyla Cromer (R) District 1

678-493-8088

Patsy Jordan (R) District 2

770-893-2970

John Harmon (R) District 3

404-462-4950

kyla.cromer@cherokee.k12.ga.us

john.harmon@cherokee.k12.ga.us

TBD 770-721-4398, x4370

rick.steiner@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Clark Menard (R) District 5

770-928-0341

Mike Chapman (R) District 6

770-345-6256

clark.menard@cherokee.k12.ga.us

678-493-6431 678-493-6431

Probate Court Judge Keith Wood (R)

Cherokee County School Board

Rick Steiner (R) District 4 678-493-6490 678-493-6480

Magistrate Court Chief Judge James E. Drane III (R) Judge Gregory Douds

Sonya Little

770-735-8055

patsy.jordan@cherokee.k12.ga.us

Superior Court Chief Judge David Cannon Jr. Judge Jackson Harris Judge Ellen McElyea

www.cherokeega.com 678-493-6001

swest@cherokeega.com 202-224-3643 GA: 770-661-0999

State Government Governor Nathan Deal (R)

1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton, GA 30114

mike.chapman@cherokee.k12.ga.us

City Government 678-493-6160

Canton Mayor Gene Hobgood

770-704-1544

Holly Springs Mayor Timothy Downing

770-345-5536

District Attorney Shannon Wallace

678-493-6250 678-493-6280 770-479-1488

Clerk of Courts Patty Baker

Woodstock Mayor Donnie Henriques

770-592-6001

678-493-6511

www.woodstockga.gov

www.canton-georgia.gov

Juvenile Court Chief Judge John B. Sumner Judge Anthony Baker

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

www.hollyspringsga.us.

SIXES AREA HOMES SOLD IN MAY

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY ANIMALS/PETS BridgeMill Animal Hospital 770-479-2200 www.bridgemillvet.com 9560 Bells Ferry Road, Canton

Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org

My Pets Vet 770-720-6583 2210 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite 100 Canton GA 30115

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS Must Ministries

CHIROPRACTIC Grexa Chiropractic & Structural Wellness 48 770-213-7602 www.GrexaChiropractic.com 1750 Marietta Highway, Canton North Cobb Spine & Nerve Institute 678-574-5678 3451 Cobb Parkway, Suite 4, Acworth

Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 20 770-926-9260 PediatricWoodstockDentist.com 1816 Eagle Drive Suite 200-C, Woodstock

52 Spillane Orthodontics 770-928-4747 www.SpillaneOrtho.com 335 Parkway 575, Suite 200, Woodstock

CLEANING SERVICES Rejoice Maids 678-905-3476 www.rejoicemaids.com

57 Ribley Chiropractic 2453 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-592-2505, www.ribleychrio.com

Williams Orthodontics 770-592-5554 145 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 201, Woodstock www.DrWilliamsOrthodontics.com 770-345-4155 205 Waleska Road, Suite 1A, Canton

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Schuckers & Associates, PC 35 770-329-8873 or 706-745-2475 3760 Sixes Road, Suite 126 #127, Canton Schuckers.Consulting@gmail.com FUNERAL HOME South Canton Funeral Home 3147 Marietta Hwy., Canton 770-479-3377, www.thescfh.com

Azure Salon & Spa 7 770-345-8280, www.azuresalon.net 1359 Riverstone Pkwy., Suite 110, Canton Bambu Salon 27 770-345-0027 www.BambuSalonAveda.com 150 Prominence Point Pkwy., Suite 700, Canton 30114 Salon Spa VenĂŠssa 19 770-591-2079, www.salonvenessa.com 8516 Main St., Woodstock HOME IMPROVEMENTS & REPAIR Alcaraz Drywall 33 678-949-8689, fidelalcaraz@yahoo.com Blue Horizon Air Conditioning & Heating 678-279-2244, BHCool.com

31 Goddard School, The 770-720-3003 310 Prominence Point Parkway, Canton

The Grant Academy 770-926-7827 www.thegrantacademy.net 102 Springfield Drive, Woodstock

Gracie Barra Canton 9 130 Prominence Point Parkway, Canton 770-630-0353, gbcanton.com

DENTAL (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric)

Citadel Professional Services, LLC 7 770-952-6707 225 Town Park Drive, Suite 440, Kennesaw

HAIR SALON/MASSAGE/SPA

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION

Piano Instructor-Ralph Iossa 973-519-6863

Werner Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 43 678-224-5722 www.ChildrensDentistWoodstock.com 250 Parkbrooke Place Suite 250, Woodstock

Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 25 1000 Wyngate Pkwy., Ste. 200, Woodstock 770-592-1877, www.townelakechiro.com

BridgeMill Dentistry 770-704-1812

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS Downtown BUZZ

Fountain View Dentistry 770-926-0000 www.fountainviewsmiles.com 1816 Eagle Drive, Bldg. 200, Ste. A, Woodstock

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Riverstone Dental Care Dr. Ruximar Linkous, 770-479-3846 www.riverstonedentalcare.com

AUTOMOTIVE BridgeMill Auto Care Canton location: 770-720-0765 East Cobb location: 770-641-9906

www.bridgemilldentistry.com 3682 Sixes Road, Canton 30114

42 5

Hammocks Heating & Air 49 770-794-0428, www.hammockshvac.com Mr. Junk 678-675-8651, www.mrjunk1.com

Precision Plumbing 50 678-758-3493, PrecisionPlumbingPros.com Reliable Heating & Air Inside back 770-594-9969, www.ReliableAir.com Sundance Pressure & Seal 770-720-2303 or 404-771-0071 www.sundancepressureandseal.com

The Grout Doctor 678-383-1311, www.GroutDoctor.com

Zilliant Innovations, Inc. 3 770-926-1545, www.ZilliantInnovations.com

LANDSCAPING/LAWN CARE Mclellan Excavation & Landscaping 404-520-0710, www.excavationandlandscaping.com Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346 www.calvarylandscaping.com

Soil Sense Landscape Group 51 678-483-5185, soilsenselandscape.com The Mosquito Authority 678-294-7597, BugsBITE.com

PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 51 678-238-0301, www.cherokeeim.com 1192 Buckhead Crossing, Suite C Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com

Medical Associates of North Georgia 470 Valley Drive Ste. 200, Ball Ground 770-737-2770 320 Hospital Road, Canton 770-479-5535 meddassoc.com

North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center, Dr. Jan Henriques 1 770-560-4775, NorthGeorgiaHearing.com 203 Woodpark Place, Suite B-100, Woodstock Northside Hospital – Cancer Institute 11 1000 Johnson Ferry Road NE, Atlanta 404-531-4444, northside.com/melanoma Northwest ENT and Allergy Center 19 770-427-0368, www.NW-ENT.com 134 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 202, Canton 960 Woodstock Parkway, Suite 101 Woodstock Pain Solutions Treatment Centers 39 770-590-1078, 2205 Riverstone Blvd., Suite 101, Canton Plastic Surgery Center of the South 41 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net 120 Vann Street, Suite 150, Marietta Wellstar Pediatric Services Inside front 770-956-7827, 678-594-7337 www.wellstar.org/forchildren

Keller Williams, Kurt & Sheila Johnson Back Cover 404-954-2486, www.kurtandsheila.com RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT 3

City of Canton 770-704-1548 Cherokee County Historical Society

Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251

RESTAURANT Harmony Burger Cafe 46 770-721-5749, HarmonyBurgerCafe.com 2210 Holly Springs Parkway, Suite 120, Canton What A Dog Cover, 36, 37 770-485-3411 9595 Highway 92, Woodstock RETAILERS/SHOPPING

PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Bates Photography www.KimBatesPhotoArt.com

REAL ESTATE

Junk Drunk Jones 33 678-951-8500, www.JunkDrunkJones.com 175 West Main Street, Canton

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to the residents of Towne Lake, Canton and Woodstock. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine. photography by J King Images

Patty Ponder ALM President Marketing & Advertising Sales

Christie Deese Sixes Living Market Manager

Candi Hannigan Executive Editor

Jackie Loudin Assistant Editor

Sixes Living Distribution Map Circulation: 16,500

Denise Griffin Controller

Karen & Jon Flaig Owner/Publisher

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

SIXES LIVING | July 2015

Michelle McCulloch Art Director

Laura Latchford Page Designer