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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Contents
32 & 33 On the Cover Manor Lake BridgeMill Executive Director Kate Weise
July 2018
Photo by Beth Fornuto
34
13
40
In Every Issue
Features
Contributors
13 End of an Era
4 Around Canton
28 Don Akridge
8 Community News
43 Dr. Christopher Alvey
Teachers, students, residents share their memories of time spent at Canton Elementary School.
20 Downtown Canton Events
34 Striking Gold
Three Girl Scouts earn the Gold Award, others close in on quest to achieve equivalent to the boys’ Eagle award.
40 Unity at the Amphitheater
Combined July 29 worship service - more than 23 churches involved - expected to draw 5,000.
56 Gridiron Forecast
18 Celebrations
High school football coaches share their thoughts on the upcoming season.
30 Downtown Canton Dining Guide 38 Everyday Angels 42 Rob’s Rescues 44 Library Events
34 Gloria Avillar 49 Siobhan Brumbelow 54 Cherokee Office of Economic
Development
24 Bill Grant
46 Calendar
37 Delia Halverson
48 Ribbon Cuttings
41 Jeremy Isaacs
58 School News
31 Dr. Michael Litrel
62 Directory of Advertisers
47 Dr. Christa Nelms 50 Joshua Nelson 51 Christopher Purvis
Advertising
40 Susan Schulz
Katherine Amick, Market Manager 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.AroundCantonMagazine.com @AroundCantonMagazine
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
@AroundCantonMag
45 Robert Tidwell 27 Scot Turner @around_canton
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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AROUND CANTON The
People, The Places and The Pleasures that make Canton/ Holly Springs/ Sixes
From the Page Designer I love being creative and I love to read. Luckily, as a page designer I get to do both! My fondness for creativity began during childhood. I like to think it stems from those peaceful summer days spent at my grandparents house. Most days, I would sit at their table for hours with some paper and a box of crayons. My grandmother would work her creative magic in the kitchen while I would relax and let my imagination flow. As I matured, my creative horizons were broadened and soon my eyes were wide open to the beautiful world of art. I quickly started to enjoy numerous art mediums. Of course, I had my childhood favorites, crayons and markers, chalks and finger paintings - but I was growing. My colorings turned into sketching, my chalks were replaced with pastels, and from there I jumped head-first into acrylic painting. I soon started to realize that creativity wasn’t something you applied solely toward artwork; you can be creative in everything you do. Before I knew it, I was experimenting with different displays of creativity, some of my favorites being cooking and baking, sewing, music, digital design and photography. I like to surround myself daily with creativity. I’m often creating in the kitchen (blessings from my Grandmother), and there’s always room for some form of creativity in raising my children. But the most constant in my life is through my role as a page designer. Each month our contributing writers apply their creativity through informative and entertaining stories. I find great joy in reading those stories, not just because I love reading. As a page designer, they give me inspiration to tap into my creativity and communicate the writer’s message through imagery, color and typography, giving their piece visual value and meaning. There are endless ways to grow in your creative potential. You don’t necessarily need artistic abilities and it doesn’t require a certain type of career. Start with something you love to do. If you have a true passion for something, then it is in that field where your real creativity will bloom. Mine simply grew from a child’s love for coloring and took off from there. I promise, yours will too!
L aura L atchford Laura Latchford is the page designer of TowneLaker, Around Woodstock, Around Canton and Around Acworth.
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
This month, our flagship publication, the TowneLaker, is celebrating 22 years of being that community’s go-to publication. We hope you’ll celebrate with us, and know that the same standard of excellence that’s carried us through all these years, also is a part of every issue of Around Canton!
Your Community. Your Magazine.
What's New The Cherokee County Marshal’s Office has opened a new headquarters at 959 Marietta Highway in Canton, across from Cherokee High School. The building houses the code enforcement division, animal control, county coroner’s office, and the backup 911 center. 678-493-6200. www.cherokeegamarshal.org.
HomeGoods has opened at the Canton Exchange, 2243 Cumming Highway. The Canton location is the 20th store in the Atlanta market. The 22,927-square-foot store offers merchandise for the home, including indoor and outdoor living. The store was expected to fill 65 full and part-time positions.
What’s Changed Economic Development Manager Matthew Thomas has left Canton to start the same job with the city of Alpharetta. Thomas worked in Canton for five years.
What’s Coming Construction is underway on the new four-story, 112,000-square-foot WellStar Cherokee Health Park at Holly Springs. The campus will include medical offices for primary care, pediatric and OB-GYN doctors as well as outpatient services such as laboratory and imaging services. A master plan approval was granted by city council for the Canton Textile Mills redevelopment. The Mill on Etowah will include retail, restaurants, and residential uses in the 30-plus acre former Canton textile mills along the Etowah River. A historic landmark building at 6114 Hickory Flat Highway, at the East Cherokee intersection, has been torn down to make way for a Chick-fil-A, according a building permit filed with Cherokee County. No more details were available at press time. At press time, Mazzato, a contemporary Peruvian restaurant at 190 E. Main St., was close to announcing its opening date. It will also feature Asian and American dishes. mazzatorestaurant.com.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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COMMUNITY BOARD
The Around Canton Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders who assist us as contributors to the magazine and advisors who offer valuable feedback.
Pat Gold moved to Canton 33 years ago when she married
Dr. Homer (Nugget) Gold. After 18 years with Delta Airlines and another 12 working for the Cherokee County School District, Pat began volunteering. She was recently named the public outreach manager for the city of Canton, and continues to volunteer on numerous boards and committees. Pat and her husband have four children and four grandchildren.
Dr. Christopher Alvey, an Owensboro, KY native,
graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, and earned a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Auburn University in 1988. He has owned and operated Cobb Central and Mobile Vet Services, and provided medical and surgical services as a relief veterinarian until he opened BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. Dr. Alvey and wife Kathy have two children, Jake and Madison, four dogs (Bogey, Allie, Lu-Lu and LeRoy) and two cats (Cartman and Aubie).
Cindy Crews is a longtime Cherokee County educator. She joined the Sixes community as assistant principal of Sixes Elementary School in 2011 and is now principal. Cindy and her husband, Andy, have lived in Woodstock for more than 20 years, and they have two young adult daughters. Her motto: Children are the future of the human race; teach them well.
Sonia Carruthers is the executive director and CEO of
Cherokee FOCUS and the Cherokee Youth Works program, based in Holly Springs. The Cherokee County native grew up in Canton and lives in Woodstock with her son and daughter. She is very active in the community and currently serves with local and regional organizations to strengthen families and children.
Chantel Adams is the founder and CEO of Purposeful Play of Georgia, an organization that celebrates kindness and equips young leaders. She has a biology degree from the University of Evansville, serves on the executive board of Highland Rivers Health, and volunteers with the Cherokee County Juvenile Court. Chantel and her husband, Gavin, live in Canton and have four children. Dr. Oliver “Ollie” Evans is the chiropractor at Holly
Springs Chiropractic and Massage. The Cherokee county native attended Holly Springs and Sixes elementary schools and Woodstock Middle and High schools. His secondary education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise and health science from Kennesaw State University and a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life University. Dr. Ollie serves as the team doctor for the KSU ice hockey team, is a USA hockey referee, and very involved in the CrossFit community. Dr. Ollie also serves on the Friends of Holly Springs Police Foundation and several other charity boards. 6
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Manager Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese 770-615-3324 Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Around Canton, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly magazine created to build a sense of community and pride in the Canton, Holly Springs and Sixes areas by sharing positive stories and timely information. A total of 25,000 free copies are distributed monthly; approximately 24,200 are mailed to homes and businesses, with an additional 800 placed in racks around the community. Many readers catch the latest edition online each month. See page 64 for a distribution map. Around Canton welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th of each month. 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. Around Canton 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 2018. Around Canton
1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189
For Advertising: Katherine Amick Katherine@aroundaboutmagazines.com or 678-279-5502
Volume 6, Issue 4
America’s Community Magazine
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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COMMUNITY
YOUR LOCAL NEWS Wonderful Wednesdays at the Funk Heritage Center
Casino Night Residents, family members and staff at The Arbor at BridgeMill recently enjoyed a Casino Royale evening, which was planned as the community’s grand opening. High roller resident Betsy Loeser, with daughter Julie Barringer, enjoyed the evening.
During July, Reinhardt University’s Funk Heritage Center is offering free admission to grandchildren who are accompanied by a paying grandparent. It’s a great way for the two generations to spend time together exploring the Native American exhibits in the Hall of Ancients, including information from the Cherokee removal to the large petroglyph at the center of the hall. “In the Hall of Ancients, there is a special children’s area, where grandparents may read stories to younger children. When arriving, children receive a brochure to help them complete a scavenger hunt in the museum,” said Martha Hout, program and public relations coordinator for the Heritage Center. “Children may also look at and touch nature items, including animal pelts, and play with puppets.” Grandparents can bring as many grandchildren as they like for free admission. For details, call 770-720-5970 or visit Reinhardt.edu/funkheritage.
Mayors Square Off in Recycling Challenge
Monument Approved for Veterans Park Construction of a monument at Cherokee Veterans Park has been approved by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners, and will be accompanied by a commemorative bricks program. At a recent board meeting, the contract was awarded to WE Contracting for the $409,933 project. The monument will be built near the roundabout and playground area that visitors see when they enter the park. The monument is part of the original master plan of Cherokee Veterans Park. A steering committee of local veterans worked with county staff and a landscape architect to develop a conceptual plan. A large U.S. flag is the centerpiece of the design. The pentagon-shaped plaza includes a five-pointed star with a column at the point and the seal for each branch of the armed services on the column. The points of the star are each made up of brick pavers that can be purchased to thank our veterans and commemorate their service. Veterans, their families and civilians can participate in the monument by purchasing a brick paver. Bricks can be purchased online by visiting the Commemorative Brick Program at www.crpa.net, calling 770-924-7768 or in person at the Recreation Center in Woodstock. 8
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
The seventh annual Mayors’ Recycling Challenge, underway since June 1, will end July 31. This Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Going Green Committee initiative is aimed at sparking continued awareness for community recycling while spurring a little friendly competition among the cities involved. During the contest, Cherokee County cities compete to see which can collect the most recycling. Awards will be given for most pounds of recycling collected overall, most improved city, and most pounds collected per capita. Santek Waste Services of Georgia and Waste Management are partnering with the chamber by tracking curbside and large recycling container weigh slips within the participating cities of Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, Waleska and Woodstock. The mission of the Going Green initiative is to encourage the community to implement green practices that conserve community resources while helping businesses thrive. For more information, visit www.CherokeeChamber.com or call 770-345-0400.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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YOUR LOCAL NEWS Toiletry Drive Supports Homeless Vets
Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals The Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce recently recognized the 2018 group of Cherokee County’s Top 10 in 10 Young Professionals to Watch. Front row from left: Jessica Akers, Falany Performing Arts Center director; Tori O’Bryant, practice coordinator for Northside HospitalTowne Lake Primary Care; Leah Bleisath, Creekland Middle School assistant principal; Julie Peppers, Carmel Elementary School assistant principal, and Jennifer Puckett, co-owner of In Harmony Pediatric Therapy. Back row: Ollie Evans, chiropractor and director for Holly Springs Chiropractic and Massage and member of Around Canton’s community board; Heath Matiak of R & D Mechanical Services; Nick Estes, vice president of Chart Inc.; Brandon Roberts, founder of Branches of Faith, and Michael Manzella, E.T. Booth Middle School principal. The nominees who will be younger than age 40 on Oct. 1 have been nominated for GeorgiaTrend magazine’s 40 Under 40 recognition.
Northside Hospital Provides Grant for AEDs Four outdoor Automatic Defibrillation Devices (AEDs) will be installed around downtown Woodstock, thanks to a funding partnership between Main Street Woodstock, Woodstock DDA and Northside Hospital Cherokee. The AEDs are fully contained units that will be placed in high traffic pedestrian areas such as the Market Street trailhead area and The Park at City Center. Local resident Michael Gullicksen brought the idea of accessible AEDs to the attention of city staff. “Northside Hospital Cherokee is a proud neighbor and sponsor of Main Street Woodstock,” Northside CEO Billy Hayes said. “Every day, approximately 1,000 people nationwide – more than 350,000 Americans each year – die from sudden cardiac arrest. Placing AEDs within the community means reaching patients in the first critical minutes following cardiac arrest.” When someone has a sudden cardiac arrest, every minute counts, said Woodstock Fire Chief Dave Soumas. “The American Heart Institute guidelines say that for every minute, the chances of a victim surviving decrease by 7 to 10 percent. These devices being readily available in public areas can help save lives.” The deployment of these four AEDs is about $10,000, which was supplied by Northside Hospital Cherokee through ongoing community relations programs and are expected to be installed mid-summer. 10
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
The seventh annual Stand Up for Stand Down toiletry drive for Georgia’s homeless veterans is underway through Sept. 7. Sponsored by the Georgia District Pilot International Clubs and Georgia Cancer Specialists, affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute, the drive collects much-needed toiletry and personal care items to fill comfort bags for veterans who attend Stand Down events throughout North and Central Georgia. Stand down is a military term that refers to the time when troops are brought back from the battlefield for rest and recuperation. Each year, Stand Down events across the country provide health care and other services to help thousands of homeless veterans get back on their feet. The 2017 Stand Up for Stand Down drive collected more than 10,000 pounds of toiletry items that filled more than 2,000 bags. Excess items were donated to local nonprofit agencies providing relief to survivors of last year’s devastating hurricanes in the Southeast. Travel/sample-size toiletry and personal care items are needed, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hand sanitizer, combs/brushes, body wash/soap, shampoo and conditioner, lotion and feminine products. Donations can be dropped off at any of the 26 Georgia Cancer Specialists locations in Georgia. The Georgia Cancer Specialists office at 228 Riverstone Drive in Canton is a drop-off location. Contact the office at 770-479-1870. www.gacancer.com. www.facebook.com/SU4SD.
Two Locations
Northside Cherokee Pediatrics provides compassionate, comprehensive medical care for patients from birth to 18 years of age. Our physicians and staff offer the quality one-on-one care you demand to keep your child happy and healthy including, short wait times, same-day appointments and personalized care at a location convenient for your busy lifestyle. Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Offers: • Exceptional Care: Board-certified physicians. Attentive & complete care for children birth - 18. • Timely Access: Same-day appointments available. Shorter wait times. • Efficient Follow-up: Timely feedback and reports. Next day test results available.
NorthsideCherokeePediatrics.com
Holly Springs 684 Sixes Road, Suite 220 Holly Springs, GA 30115
678-388-5485 Towne Lake 900 Towne Lake Pkwy, Suite 306 Woodstock, GA 30189
Northside/ Imag
770-852-7720 Exit 11 (Sixes Road)
HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE LAKE
Ros wel l Rd .
Quality Pediatric Care, Close to Home
J
AROUND CANTONoh|ns July 2018 on Fe rry
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PHOTO BY REBEKAH GREGG
Serenity Offers
Retirement Freedom, Sophisticated Lifestyles Customization is one of the advantages future residents of Serenity, an active adult community in Woodstock near Holly Springs, can expect from Treetop Residential. The company makes every effort to tailor each home to the buyer’s needs. It’s a trait that Treetop Residential builder Burke Jackson said is not typically offered by most builders at the $300k-$400k price point. Each home is customized to the buyer’s needs, and a direct line of communication with the owner/builder of the company assures the client gets exactly what he or she wants. Serenity is an Active Adult 55+ community that offers six floor plans with front and rear loaded garages. The front of the homes are spacious and open for strolling on the sidewalks, visiting with neighbors and enjoying time spent on the front porch. Integrating creativity and a love of the outdoors is a signature of Treetop Residential, which aligns with talented architects and a subcontractor base that offers a high level of detail and craftsmanship. The company’s personal, hands-on approach allows direct communication with the owner/builder of the company versus a superintendent or project manager. This is a personal touch that allows Treetop Residential’s team to understand what buyers are looking
Plan Stirling
for and to implement those ideas into acquisitions, entitlement and development of lots. Treetop Residential, launched their home building business in 2006, are licensed in the state of Georgia, members of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, and winners of the 2017 Grand Aurora award and a 2017 Gold Obie award winner. In the last 12 years, Treetop Residential’s path from remodeling to acquisitions, development and new home construction has been a natural and seamless progression. “It has allowed us to remain nimble, understand what our buyers were truly requesting in a new home and provide a superior housing product in the marketplace,” Jackson said. Serenity residents have easy access to downtown Woodstock and Holly Springs, State of the art hospitals and medical campuses, I-575, not to mention local parks, Cherokee County trail system, aquatic centers, tennis and golf clubs, shopping and dining. “We felt like Cherokee County is dedicated to providing a superior quality of life for its residents,” Jackson said. “Our goals were aligned, which are to preserve the beauty, unique character and desirability of the community while building in a county that maintained the lowest tax rates in Metro Atlanta for our buyers.” Sponsored Content
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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The Final Bell
The legacy of Canton Elementary School is laced with fond memories for multiple generations. In December 2017, the Cherokee County School Board approved a plan to relieve crowding at Cherokee High that resulted in dissolving Canton Elementary School and letting the high school absorb the elementary campus. In May, students, teachers and staff members said their goodbyes to the institution, closing the doors on a legacy that began 104 years ago in downtown Canton. Canton Grammar School was built in 1914 on Academy Street to replace Etowah Academy, the first school in Canton, according to a historic account at www.rockbarn.org. Students in grades 1-11 attended until Canton High was built in 1924. The grammar school underwent many changes during the years, and the elementary classes left in 1974 to attend a new school built on Marietta Highway. In 1976, the downtown Canton building reopened as part of the bicentennial celebration
for the Department of Education, and was used as offices until it closed in 2010. The facility has been renovated and a new steel structure replaces the old wood frame. It will be used for new restaurants and office space. The new Canton Elementary School school that opened in 1974, home of the Greenies, was torn down in 2005 and replaced by a more modern facility that opened in 2008, also changing the mascot to the Colts. In that interim, Canton ES students joined with Tippens students to form Hasty Elementary. The decision to close Canton ES was made more difficult, no doubt, by the fact that many generations of the same families walked the halls, attended classes and created memories at the same school. The plan is the first phase of a larger effort to solve overcrowding at Cherokee High School, which ultimately will require construction of an additional high school.
The home of the Greenies that opened in 1974 was torn down in 2005 and replaced by this newer facility that opened in 2008 (top).
Next month, 520 former Canton Elementary STEM Academy students will start the new school year at R.M. Moore Elementary, and 270 will attend Knox Elementary, according to a statement from the school district. Both campuses will be designated STEM academies, and R.M. Moore will retain its Title I services that support schools with higher populations of students who qualify for free or reducedprice lunch. While Knox will not see enough of a demographic shift to qualify as Title I, students in need will continue to receive extra services. As for the future of Cherokee High, new construction (estimated at more than $70 million) won’t be feasible until the next education SPLOST referendum in 2021, due to borrowing constraints. In the meantime, Superintendent Brian Hightower said his staff will explore renovations that could be made to the Cherokee High School campus once the school begins using Canton Elementary and moves mobile classrooms offsite. We reached out to Canton families who were eager to share their favorite memories of their time at the elementary school. You’ll find their thoughts and photos on the following pages. It was common for several generations to walk the same hallowed halls, a source of pride to this day. A common thread runs through each recollection: Canton Elementary was more than just a school; it was family! AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Reflections on Canton Elementary From Randy Saxon
BY JACK WEAVER RETIRED FORMER PRINCIPAL
What an honor and a privilege it was for me to serve as assistant principal at Canton Elementary School (CES) from 1985-88, and as principal from 1988-2000. Principal Harold Wheeler, Superintendent Marguerite Cline and the Cherokee County Board of Education gave me opportunities for which I will be forever grateful. I still vividly recall driving home one evening from an off-campus UGA graduate course (held in Gwinnett County) as I was working toward fulfilling the requirements for my ED.S. Degree in Educational Administration. As I approached the Chattahoochee River, I finally was able to pick up slight reception of radio station WCHK and hear station manager Byron Dobbs announce a summary of the night’s Cherokee County Board of Education meeting. When he said, “Jack Weaver was approved as principal of Canton Elementary School,” I cannot describe the excitement/thankfulness that hit me at the moment. That brief rush soon turned to a feeling of great responsibility in the fall. The awesome job we had in helping to mold the lives of children at CES for the next several years then weighed heavily on me. I was always told by others that I needed to leave my work and worries at school, but my wife, Carolyn, will tell you that I never learned how to do that. We were blessed with a lot of parental trust/support at CES, further evidenced by the fact that about a third of our students came to us on a space-available basis from out of district. At the time, we were the first, and only, elementary school in the county that held regional accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). In 1993, however, our school system (principal association, superintendent and Board of Education), saw the benefits of all our schools going through the regional accreditation process to add to the existing Georgia accreditation. This became a reality in 1994 and was a positive move for education in Cherokee County. As I look back upon my days at CES, there were many words that could be used to describe our school, but the one word 14
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Senior commercial appraiser and sixth generation Canton resident
Weaver with Olympics mascot.
which repeatedly rose to the forefront, and was conveyed to me by visitors, was “feeling.” We would often hear how the school just had a special feeling from the time folks entered and then exited. For one thing, that former building, which was located on the current school site, was designed with an open pod format and this necessitated cooperation and respect throughout the school in order to operate in an efficient manner. I’m sure there were some disadvantages from an instructional standpoint in that teachers had to coordinate with other instructional staff within the pod as to activities which would require less lighting or more noise. However, as an administrator, it was my goal (and some days I did not attain it) to be visible and walk through every classroom each day. I could do that within an open concept building design with little disruption to class activities. I really believe, though, that the “feeling” used to describe our school was attributable to more than architecture. I think it came from the mutual trust that we had between staff, student, and parents. We were a school that laughed together, cried together (especially when we lost a member of the CES family), and celebrated together. Indeed, Canton Elementary School is a school that lives on and for which I will always have a special “feeling” within my heart.
“My sons went there in the mid-80s and I was president of the PTA for a couple years. Mom and I served as PTA presidents for several years consecutively. “My best memory of that school was a chicken dinner fundraiser we had one year. We cooked 2,500 chicken halves from a Friday night to Saturday afternoon. Sold every piece of it. “Mom and I also began the Partners in Education program in Cherokee County at CES. We went to Augusta and looked at what they were doing, came back and put it in place. It made a huge difference for the school. “While I was PTA president, we were being recognized for the Partners in Education program and the state PTA president came to speak and give us an award. When he began to speak, he wanted to recognize me and said, “I want to thank Rodney for all he has done….” That’s all I remember of that speech, but to this day Deannie Fincher still calls me Rodney.”
Leslie Bland in a group photo made in the sch hair and white shirt, is standing behind a chee
From Hugh Thacker
Canton resident and former student
Hugh Thacker’s parents attended Canton ES, as did he, his wife Marlene, their three children and seven grandchildren. “We have deep roots at Canton Elementary,” Marlene said. They still enjoy the friendships they made as elementary students. Hugh has fond memories of his time in elementary school. When he was in first or second grade, a rumor got out that then principal N.R. Hayworth had an electric paddle in his office. Just the rumor was a great deterrent to mischievous young boys getting into trouble. He also recalls the quiet moments after coming in from recess when his second-grade teacher had her students put their heads on their desks and rest. She read a Bible story to them during that time.”
From Sonia Carruthers
Executive director and CEO of Cherokee FOCUS Patsy Jordan with a group of students, including Megan Gold and Allen Dreschel directly in front of her.
From Patsy Jordan
District 2 county school board representative
“My best memories of Canton Elementary were student teaching January-May 1995. My supervising teacher was Teresa Stanfield, a dear friend, and former classmate. The CES class was a group of the most awesome third-graders. Pat Gold was the PTA president and she and Susan Dreschel ran copies for me and assisted with my every need. I also was blessed to teach their children that year, Megan Gold and Allen Dreschel. I will forever be grateful for the assistance these two ladies provided me during my experience. They also gave me a great surprise party when it was time for me to leave. The open classroom building I taught in is no longer there, but my memories will forever remain in my heart.”
hool library, around 1970. Leslie, with long blonde erleader with short dark hair.
“My older sister attended Canton ES, I went there, and my son and daughter went there. Kyle was in the sixth grade and Dakota was in kindergarten and I was the PTA president the year of the attacks on 9/11. We planted a time capsule, and I would LOVE to see if it is still in the spot we left it. This is the year of that sixth-grade class’ 10-year reunion from high school. Pat Gold’s son was in the same class and buddies with Kyle. Kyle did a video about that year at Canton Elementary and 9/11, and it won the school’s video contest. After graduating UGA, he started Baxter Street Films and I really believe Canton Elementary is where he got his start. “When my sister and I were at CES, Coach Johnson was the PE/basketball coach. He and his wife had their first child, a son, during that time. They moved just a couple of years after his birth, but that son, Brad Johnson, went on to play professional football. I think he started as a quarterback for the Vikings but in 2001, he was hired by Tampa Bay as the quarterback and went on to win the Super Bowl for the 2002 season.”
From Leslie Reynolds Bland Former CES special education teacher
“My dad, Roy Reynolds, attended Canton Elementary and, at the time, Canton High School. And my siblings - Frank, Roy, Renee, Michele and Gavin - and I also attended Canton Elementary. I played basketball from fifth to eighth grades. Our Greenies won the county championship! Two members of my team, Cindy Ely and Debbie Groover, went on to play on our USA Olympic Team! “Canton Elementary was integrated during my early grade years. We welcomed students from Ralph Bunche that year. Witnessing this history has been a valuable teaching tool. “After graduation, I attended UGA (much to my Tech grad Dad’s dismay) to major in PE. When told I wouldn’t be likely to get a job back home, I switched to special education. “My former assistant principal Harold Weaver hired me right away. My dream had come full circle! I taught with wonderful teachers who had taught me and many of my friends. Joy Pope Mabry had been my fourth-grade teacher. I always wanted her to be proud of me. What a thrill to be able to teach WITH her. I stayed at CES nine years, spent 34 as a teacher, and I continue to substitute. My life at Canton as a student and as a teacher was idyllic. “I feel a part of my personal and family history is disappearing. It is not often people can experience life as we did. Canton Elementary was a big family.” AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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From Abby May
Canton ES principal transitioning to R.M. Moore principal
Letitia Cline’s class performed a version of “Hee Haw.”
From Letitia Cline
Former CES teacher, principal
“During my 14 years as a classroom teacher at Canton ES, I have many special memories of the students, families and my colleagues. I spent 16 of my 29½ years as an educator at Canton ES. “During my first four years of teaching, I worked alongside three amazing kindergarten teachers, Hallene Huddlestun, Carolyn Hitt and Kimberly Ross. We produced two kindergarten musical performances each year. . . our version of “Hee Haw” was one of my favorites. I still smile when I recall the pure joy on the face of one my students as she rolled her wheelchair down the center aisle, decorated as a hot rod car, as the students sang, “She’ll be coming around the mountain in a hot rod when she comes.” We taught cross curricular lessons incorporating music, art and drama into learning to read and do mathematical tasks. I am reminded that we were successful in igniting a love of learning when former students often share their memories of how we made learning engaging and exciting. “I taught kindergarten for eight years (1985-93) and then second grade for six years (1993-99). I then left to serve as an assistant principal at Woodstock Elementary for four years and returned to Canton as principal for two years (2003-05). “Canton ES was family. We served students whose parents, grandparents and even great-grandparents had attended Canton ES and were proud and loyal Canton Greenies. Families always stepped up and supported the school and each other in times of celebration and in times of tragedy. The first year I taught at Canton ES, it was still a K-8 school and Canton also was the only elementary school that had industrial arts and home economic classes. Lynn Sewell’s industrial arts classes built a shed with benches for the playground.”
From Carol Dunn
Knox Elementary Kindergarten teacher
“I started working at Canton Elementary in 1984. I am one of the few who closed the doors at the Canton Elementary (Greenies) in 2005. I was happy that I got to come back to a new CES as one of 25 staff members that opened the doors in 2008. Here it is 2018. We closed CES doors once again for good. I have so many precious memories and pictures! I am so overwhelmed with all the support from everyone; the prayers for the teachers and students as we faced this day and the testimonies about how Canton has made a difference in the lives of many people. Canton was not like any other school, we will always be a family!” 16
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
“The 2017-18 school year was my first year at Canton, first year in Cherokee, and first year as principal. I had previously worked and taught in Fulton County and before that in Orange County, Fla. Though I am not a native of Cherokee County, it is really where I consider home to be since moving to Woodstock in 2007. “I imagine my first year as principal was about the same as for many first-year principals. There is a lot to learn and a lot of responsibility. I had a lot to learn being new all around. What I learned quickly was the rich tradition here at Canton and how amazing the staff, students and community are. The STEM program is one of the many opportunities our students have available to them. Partnerships, like the one with Canton Rotary, make our labs, resources, and activities beneficial for all students. I am a champion of STEM and enjoyed watching our students grow in their creativity and learning this year. “Canton students and staff made many memories this year! There is a tight bond between our students, staff and families. As news of the school’s dissolution came, my focus was on keeping everyone positive and reminding them that we are all part of a bigger family. The students from Cherokee often visited Canton to volunteer with Reading Buddies and student teacher experiences. In fact, students from Cherokee even helped us pack our building. We reminded our students that they, also, are Cherokee Warriors, and that someday they would come back to this building. “Our students hosted an assembly for the administrative team at Cherokee High School. The students presented Principal Todd Miller with important things he would need next year. . . keys to the building, alarm codes, map of the building, THRIVE motto, and a special rock garden. EACH student at Canton Elementary this year, painted a rock (red and white) and we made a garden in the back of the school for the Cherokee High School students. A large rock symbolized this and read “#onceacolt #alwaysawarrior” We made sure to emphasize that this was not goodbye, just see you later. It was emotional for our students and staff, but there is excitement in meeting and making new friends. “I was excited to learn that I will be transitioning as principal to R.M. Moore with most of my students and staff. R.M. Moore is a school built on rich tradition as well, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this transition. Canton Elementary will always have a truly unique and special place in my heart. I am grateful for the time I have had here and the people I have met and memories made.” Abby May with Canton ES students.
IN Town
Holly Springs Update from Mayor Steven Miller The contractor for the Holly Springs Parkway widening project has completed the culvert extensions on the western side of the roadway, installed stormwater pipe within the project limits, raised the roadbed approximately 6 feet at Toonigh Creek and lowered the roadbed just south of Rabbit Hill Road. Contractors started relocating power lines in June on behalf of Georgia Power Company and Cobb EMC. Atlanta Gas Light completed the relocation of the gas main in early June. Current plans call for the two lanes on the western side of Holly Springs Parkway to open to through traffic in July, and the two eastern lanes to open in the fall. City council approved the Town Center Road Network Concept Plan in April, which calls for construction of a roundabout east of Holly Springs Fire Station #8 on Hickory Road and the construction of the Palm Street Extension just north of Walnut Street to the roundabout on Hickory Road. The stop sign at the intersection of Palm Street and Hickory Road will be removed, and the northern terminus of Palm Street will be converted to a right-in/right-out intersection. Engineering plans should be completed in August.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
17
Celebrations!
Joshlyn Shi
9 years old on July 19. We wish you a joyful birthday!
Isabel Adams
Turning 5 on July 7! Happy birthday to our ray of sunshine, Isabel. We love you! Papรก, Mama and little sister Sophia
Sophia Kolodin
Happy 6th Birthday, Colton!
Happy 7th birthday, Soph! July 13 Love, Mommy and Daddy
Happy 9th birthday, Annabelle!
You brighten our days and make us proud! Cheers to you! Love, Mom, Dad, Nate and Parker
We love you to the moon! Dad and Mom
Ashley Young and Edward Wichowski 7 days apart, and 7 years strong!
Kaya Griffin
Age 9 on July 11 Happy Birthday, Nugget! Last year in the single digits! Love, Mommy, Daddy, Luke and Scout
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Celebrating July birthdays at the Lodge at BridgeMill!
Seated, from left: Shirley Kirsch, Marion Whaley, Rose Turanin and Don Hall. Second row, standing: Nancy Kelchner, Margaret Farley, Linda Johnston and Rose Ann Swanson (with sunglasses). Back row: Edward Rosati, Mike Warren, Hannelore Lucas, Bill Melfi, Gordon Reagan and Helen Hall.
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
E-mail to: Jackie@ AroundaboutMagazines.com August deadline is July 10. Please specify Around Canton.
IN Town
Ball Ground New Senior Center Opens
The Ball Ground Senior Center, at 388 Groover St., provides a warm and welcoming environment with a great group of friendly, fun and active members. It is a great place to catch up with old friends and make new ones. The program consists of planned activities, such as exercising, arts and crafts, games, lunch outings and fun day trips to various locations. The center is open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays, and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays. An additional day, 9 a.m.2 p.m. Thursdays, will be added in August.
In City Park
July 14: Movie in the Park begins at dusk; showing “Good Dinosaur.”
July 28: Concert in the Park with the band Still Truckin’, begins at 7 p.m.
Use this guide for a walking tour of Ball Ground.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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IN Town
Canton Dumpster Days Held the first Saturday of each month, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. This event allows residents (need proof of residency) to drop off items to recycle, including computers, gaming systems, VCR/DVD players, stereo equipment, and other items. To see an extended list, visit www.cantonga.gov. If you have questions, contact Code Compliance Manager Merrick Mcclure at 770-704-1554 or merrick.mcclure@cantonga.gov.
Canton Theatre 171 E. Main St. 770-704-0755. www.cantontheatre.org
Summer Movie Series
Grab the kids and come downtown to the Historic Canton Theatre for the dollar movies presented by Canton Main Street. Day-of-show tickets to individual films are $1 and go on sale one hour prior to show time at the theatre box office. $1 concessions There will be two showings daily: at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
July 11: “Coco” July 18: “The Jungle Book” (1967 version)
A Literary Event A Novel Idea is 7-9 p.m. July 18 and will feature local authors discussing their mystery/thriller novels, at East Main Café (inside Audio Intersection), 210 E. Main St., Canton, from 7-9 p.m. The café has sandwiches, salads, desserts. BYOB. Door prizes. The crowd enjoying A Novel Idea. 20
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
JULY Watermelon Eating Contest at 11 a.m. 7 Annual sponsored by the Canton Farmers Market and Cherokee County Farm Bureau. Stop by the farmers market for a free slice of watermelon and compete in the melon eating contest. Age divisions for kids and adults.
Farmers Market 10th annual Pie 21 Canton Contest, 10:30-11:30 a.m. The contest is open to
everyone, with three contest divisions: youth, adult and professional. You do not need to be a Cherokee County resident to enter. Your pie must include at least one locally available ingredient, not necessarily in season. Pies need to be in place by 10 a.m. in the gazebo at Cannon Park. Winners of the contest will advance to the Cherokee Pie Challenge Finals in Woodstock, in August. For more information, email cantongafarmersmarket@yahoo.com.
Movies in the Park Starts at dusk in Brown Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy a movie on a big screen with a backdrop of the historic City Hall. Sponsored by Northside Hospital, Southern Outdoor Cinema, Covenant Christian Academy and the City of Canton.
July 28: “Ferdinand” Aug. 25: “Sherlock Gnomes”
First Fridays Canton Main Street hosts a party in downtown Canton on the first Friday of each month, 6-9 p.m., featuring live music, a car show, food and activities for the entire family.
July 6: Island Dreams with music by Sons of Sailors. Aug. 3: Alumni Night with music by Anita & Party Life. Sept. 7: ’80s Night with music by The Breakfast Club. Oct. 5: Jeep Night, with music by Skipper Grace.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
21
A Stroll through the Market PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARLEEN PREM PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.DARLEENPREM.COM
There is plenty of food, fun and family activities each week at the downtown Canton Farmers Market. The market promotes local farmers and artisans, and all produce is Georgia grown, mostly organic. Families can enjoy cooking demonstrations, activities for the kids and music. Hours are 9 a.m.-1 p.m., rain or shine, in Cannon Park every Saturday through Oct. 27. For more information and details about vendors, visit the Facebook page, @CantonGAFarmersMarket.
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
IN Town
Waleska New Projects Around City Hall
According to Mayor Doris Jones’ recent newsletter, council members have agreed to the following:
1. 2. 3.
City officials are going to consult with the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency about putting a walking trail behind city hall. Shredding day is set for 10 a.m.-noon July 28. First come, first served.
Weddings will be performed 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursdays by appointment, and paid in advance. The $100 cost covers the facility use and officiant’s fee. Plans have been approved to add a gazebo on city property next to city hall, which will be available for weddings for $3,500.
Waleska Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays at Heritage Fellowship, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway.
Stay Cool at Cline Park This 12-acre park at 704 Bartow St. is part of the Cherokee Recreation and Parks system and includes two tennis courts, a playground, outdoor basketball court, wooded walking trail and a splash pad. Hours for the splash pad are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Sundays through the end of July. Open weekends only, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., during August. The last open day is Sept. 3.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
23
Shrim
Culinary
The
Councilman
Shrimp and Grits are Cool! BY BILL GRANT
It’s summertime, and the living is easy in Canton. The kids are out of school, the Fourth of July parade and fireworks are always a treat, locally grown produce abounds at the Canton Farmers Market, First Fridays are hotter than ever, and the city has opened a new Snack Shack with concessions, including snow cones, for the crowds enjoying Etowah River Park. There’s never a lack of things to do in the summer, especially this year, as Canton continues to become one of the most active, connected and vibrant cities in Georgia. For children, our $1 Kids’ Movie Series continues at the Canton Theatre with “Coco” on July 11, and the 1967 version of “Jungle Book” on July 18, one of my personal favorites! There are two showings each day, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the box office one hour before the show, on a first come, first served basis. Information on all of these activities, plus many others, can be found on the city’s official Facebook page – City of Canton GA. July brings us close to the finish of phase one of the restoration to the Jones Building. This phase includes restoring the original 1920s exterior, and the results will be an amazing improvement for downtown Canton. The new awning on East Main Street is being custom manufactured, so it 24
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
won’t arrive until mid-July, but everything else should be wrapping up. We hope to conduct tours of the gutted interior in the near future, and we think everyone will be amazed with its potential. Meanwhile, progress continues on the old Canton Grammar School and Mill office site, and Panera should be open, or very close, by the time you read this. The two historic buildings are looking amazing, and we look forward to the other restaurants and businesses that will be added to the development. More importantly, we will welcome 125 new public parking spaces, available for all downtown visitors, merchants and event attendees. The Mill on the Etowah continues to announce more great news, improvements and tenants, and they are just beginning the project. As for the mayor and council, we already have begun to review the 2019 budget with our city manager and CFO, and, as always, there are a lot of things to consider. The most important matter is how to deliver the highest quality services and amenities to city residents at the lowest possible cost. It is a challenging, yet rewarding, process, and I look forward to continuing to work with these dedicated colleagues to move Canton forward. Summer also brings higher temperatures and humidity, not my favorite thing about living in the South. Growing up without air conditioning, we learned how to keep
the house cooler on those long dog days, especially in the kitchen. Grilling outside was preferred, to keep from heating up the house, and, of course, my parents avoided baking at all costs. Even with central HVAC, I still try to follow these rules in the summer by limiting most of my cooking to the stovetop. The Canton Farmers Market is an excellent source for stovetop creations, and I recently made a delicious shrimp and grits dish, almost entirely from ingredients purchased there. The fresh shrimp, from Tom’s Fresh Seafood, came from Darien, Ga. My delicious Big Fat Grits were from Buckeye Creek Farm in Canton, one of my favorite places ever! My friends at Loud Mouth Farm grew the glorious oyster mushrooms. Garlic and serrano peppers were purveyed by my favorite “farmhers” at Whim-Wham Art Farm, and the first homegrown tomato and herbs came from our own garden at One Britt. Of course, you can get these basic ingredients at any grocery store, but knowing where your food comes from provides peace of mind and, for me, pure joy. Until next time, stay cool by eating and shopping local. Bill Grant is a Canton city councilman and mayor pro tem. He is also president and chief creative officer of Grant Design Collaborative in downtown Canton.
mp with Gruyére Grits
(serves four)
Peel and clean shrimp, leaving the tails on (optional). Combine 4-5 cups chicken stock with reserved shrimp shells, mushroom stems and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes. Strain stock (pressing on shells and solids to extract flavor) and return stock to saucepan. Continue to simmer on low. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, 3/4 teaspoon salt, baking soda and cornstarch, and toss to coat. Refrigerate shrimp for 30 minutes to one hour. This will keep the shrimp moist and crisp when cooking. Separate 3 cups of reserved stock into a separate saucepan over medium high heat. Whisk grits into stock and bring to a simmer, whisking frequently. Reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring and scraping bottom frequently with a wooden spoon, until grits are soft and thickened, about one hour. Add more stock, half ladle at a time, if the grits get too dry. Stir in Gruyère cheese until fully melted, then season with salt and pepper. Keep grits warm and stir often. Heat pancetta or bacon until sizzling over high heat in a large cast iron skillet. Lower heat to medium and cook, stirring, until bacon has rendered its fat and becomes crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon fat from the skillet, and reserve the rest. Return skillet to high heat until lightly smoking. Add shrimp and cook, stirring frequently, until just slightly translucent in the center of each shrimp. Transfer shrimp to a plate. Add 3 tablespoons of bacon fat to skillet and return to medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring, until they release their liquid, about 3 minutes. Continue cooking mushrooms, stirring frequently, until lightly browned, 5-6 minutes. If skillet becomes too dry, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil at a time to keep it from sticking. Stir in shallot, garlic, serrano pepper and tomato, and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add remaining cup of stock to shallot mixture, scraping up any browned bits on bottom of pan. Add reserved shrimp and stir gently. Lower heat to medium-low, and whisk in butter until fully melted and emulsified with the gravy. Remove from heat, and whisk in lemon juice. Stir in herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon grits into bowls, and top with shrimp, mushrooms and gravy. Garnish with reserved crispy bacon and additional herbs, and serve right away.
• 4-5 cups chicken stock • 1 pound large shrimp, shelled (save the shells for stock) • 1 pint mushrooms, such as oyster, button, cremini or shiitake – stemmed and thinly sliced (save stems for stock) • 1 bay leaf • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for seasoning • 1/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/4 tsp. cornstarch • 1 cup of coarse stone ground yellow grits • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese • Freshly ground black pepper • 4 ounces pancetta or 3-4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced • Vegetable oil (as needed) • 1 medium shallot, minced • 3 medium cloves garlic, minced • 1 serrano pepper, minced • 1 ripe tomato, chopped small with juices • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley and chives mixed (plus more for garnish if desired)
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Protecting Your Virtual Identity BY SCOT TURNER
Last summer, news broke that Equifax, one of the big three credit reporting agencies, had been hacked. When the dust settled, more than 150 million Americans discovered their personal credit data, everything from Social Security numbers, date of birth and addresses to debt information, were now in the hands of criminals. To this day, the case remains open, and no one has been charged. Meanwhile, it is likely that your information has been caught up in the hack. Until this year, Equifax and the other two credit reporting agencies were allowed to charge consumers a fee for freezing and thawing their credit reports. Placing a freeze on your credit report makes it harder for criminals to use your personal data to steal your identity and your good credit. In Georgia, the fee was $3 per transaction, which means if you wanted to freeze your credit with all three agencies, it would cost you $9. And, you would have to pay $9 again if you decided to thaw your credit. To a group of legislators, it did not make sense that the same companies that had failed to keep your data safe would be allowed to charge you a fee to protect your good name. That’s why I authored House Bill 866 in the House and carried the Senate version, SB 376, which removes the ability of credit reporting agencies to charge consumers these fees. Gov. Nathan Deal signed this legislation into law, and it went into effect July 1. Also, Congress
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
is taking the Georgia model and applying it to all states starting in September. But, I do not think the effort should end here. Your data, that makes up your virtual identity, is not under your control, nor do you really enter into any type of voluntary relationship with these companies. If you have a mortgage or a car loan, they collect your information whether you want them to or not. Today, if they do not take steps to secure your information and it is stolen, they shrug their shoulders and go about their business. That is why these companies need to have an increased level of accountability. If it is discovered that one of these agencies acted negligently, it needs to be fined. Even after the Equifax breach, which impacted nearly 60 percent of American adults, there was no fine or recompense for those affected. That needs to change. If Congress cannot act on the matter, then we should take the lead and do so at the state level. Have you been impacted by the Equifax data breach? If so, I would like to hear your story. Give me a call at 678-576-2644.
Scot Turner is a small business owner and the State House Representative for District 21. He can be reached at 678-576-2644 or www.facebook.com/turnerforhouse.
VOICEOVERCITY MEDIA SERVICES
Finds a Home in Cherokee
L
ife as the owner of VoiceoverCity Media Services is never dull; owner Gerald Griffith constantly works to meet and anticipate industry needs. It’s a process that’s been ongoing since he started the company in 2012 as a meetup group catering to the voiceover community. “Originally, my focus was on using my voice within the voiceover industry,” Griffith said. “Today, I’m able to use my voice, my technology background, and my love of visual media to help others.” The entrepreneur has extended his services to include: • AV equipment rentals • Live-streaming service • Podcast consulting and support • Voiceover recording and audition support While the list may evolve, one aspect of his business never will change. “We partner with our clients,” Griffith said. “Our goal is to partner with clients and discover ways in which we can add value to their efforts. They don’t have to figure out everything for themselves. We can help.” EQUIPMENT RENTALS “We’re excited about being able to offer quality AV equipment rentals and services. After years of supporting various events, conferences, and meetings, we’ve established a considerable inventory of quality resources we’re now making available to others. We also offer rental spaces for podcasting and voiceover recording at our Woodstock location.” Available equipment: • Projectors, screens • Microphones, mixers and speakers • Display televisions (Up to 65 inches) • Select video cameras LIVE STREAMING “Live streaming is about connecting people. We often see organizations hosting great events but lack the ability to extend that experience beyond their
local audience. Through live streaming, we’re able to connect them to a much larger audience. An example would be streaming the Easter service for Momentum Church on YouTube and Facebook to help their message reach the world. Another would be our ongoing support of 1 Million Cups Cherokee where we stream the business presentations of up and coming businesses.” PODCAST CONSULTING “We’re here to provide guidance on what it takes to get going and how to be good Gerald Griffith. Photo by J. King Images. on-air talent. If someone is just getting started, we talk through which has been held in Atlanta each their ideas and develop a plan of action. year since 2013. In 2019, more than If they’ve already started, we provide 700 industry professionals will gather a few pointers, if needed, or simply a for a weekend of networking, fun, and treated space where they can come in education to build and grow a stronger and record their shows. If they need help voiceover industry. with pre, or post, production, we have “The abilities used to grow resources to assist with that as well.” VoiceoverCity Media Services are the same abilities that took a small event RECORDING, AUDITIONS intended to cater to the Southeast “In the world of voiceover, it’s not Region and turned it into the largest always easy to build out a home studio event of its kind,” Griffith said. or connect with others willing to share Griffith is excited about the potential what they know about the industry. At of his media services company to have a VoiceoverCity Media Services, we can positive impact in Cherokee County and point new talent in the right direction beyond. while providing a professional space for those already working in the industry. We have a full Whisperroom that’s outfitted with a professional microphone and recording software. If needed, we’re able to arrange a recording engineer, so talent can focus on delivering a great performance.” Griffith graduated from Strayer University after serving eight years in the U.S. Army. He has a degree in computer networking and owned his own photography studio prior to moving to Georgia in 2009. This uniquely equips him for the services offered by VoiceoverCity Media Services. Griffith is the executive producer of The VO Atlanta Voiceover Conference Sponsored Content
VoiceoverCity Media Services 1700 River Park Blvd., Suite 102 Woodstock, GA 30188
678-439-9490
http://voiceovercity.com facebook.com/voiceovercity AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Managing Money Well as a Couple How often will you check up on your financial progress?
DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
When you marry or share a household with someone, your financial life changes – and your approach to managing your money may change as well. To succeed as a couple, you may also have to succeed financially. The good news is that it is usually not so difficult. At some point, you will have to ask yourselves some money questions – questions that pertain not only to your shared finances, but also to your individual finances. Waiting too long to ask (or answer) those questions might carry an emotional price. In the 2017 TD Bank Love and Money survey of consumers who said they were in relationships, 68 percent of couples who described themselves as “unhappy” indicated that they did not have a monthly conversation about money.1
First off, how will you make your money grow?
Simply saving money will help you build an emergency fund, but unless you save an extraordinary amount of cash, your uninvested savings will not fund your retirement. Should you hold any joint investment accounts or some jointly titled assets? One of you may like to assume more risk than the other; spouses often have different individual investment preferences. How you invest, together or separately, is less important than your commitment to investing. Some couples focus only on avoiding financial risk – to them, maintaining the status quo and not losing any money equals financial success. They could be setting themselves up for financial failure decades from now by rejecting investing and retirement planning. An ongoing relationship with a financial professional may enhance your knowledge of the ways in which you could build your wealth and arrange to retire confidently.
When finances affect two people rather than one, credit card statements and bank balances become more important, so do IRA balances, insurance premiums, and investment account yields. Looking in on these details once a month (or at least once a quarter) can keep you both informed, so that neither one of you has misconceptions about household finances or assets. Arguments can start when money misunderstandings are upended by reality.
What degree of independence do you want to maintain?
Do you want to have separate bank accounts? Separate fun money accounts? To what extent do you want to comingle your money? Some spouses need individual financial space. There is nothing wrong with this, unless a spouse uses such space to hide secrets that will eventually shock the other.
Can you be businesslike about your finances?
Spouses who are inattentive or nonchalant about financial matters may encounter more financial trouble than they anticipate. So, watch where your money goes, and think about ways to repeatedly pay yourselves first rather than your creditors. Set shared short-term, medium-term and long-term objectives, and strive to attain them.
Communication is key to all this.
In the TD Bank survey, 78 percent of the respondents indicated they were comfortable talking about money with their partner, and 90 percent of couples describing themselves as “happy” claimed that a money talk happened once a month. Planning your progress together may well have benefits beyond the financial, so a regular conversation should be a goal.1
continued on page 60
How much will you spend and save?
Budgeting can help you arrive at your answer. A simple budget, an elaborate budget, or any attempt at a budget can prove more informative than none at all. A thorough, line-item budget may seem a little over the top, but what you learn from it may be eye opening.
Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707.
L E AV E T H E W O R R I E S. L I V E T H E L I F E . The Arbor at BridgeMill offers an active, carefree lifestyle filled with comfortable living space, great amenities—and exactly the level of care and support needed. Call (770) 637-0572 today to ask about our outstanding move-in pricing specials!
ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY CARE NOW AVAILABLE 700 Freedom Boulevard, Canton, GA 30114 | ArborBridgeMill.com 28
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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DOWNTOWN CANTON DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT CUISINE BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER SUNDAY
Downtown Kitchen
no
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
East Main Café Coffee, Tea $ 210 E. Main St. Baked goods 770-670-9333 Facebook/EastMainCafe
no
no
closed
no
no
Goin’ Coastal 125 W. Main St. 770-479-3737
$$
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
Eatery & Bar Sunday $ $$ 170 North St. Brunch 770-213-8970 Noon-3
open
Full bar
yes
Mamma Onesta’s Italian Italian no 250 E. Main St. 678-880-7770
$$-$$$
open
Full bar
yes
$$$
closed
Full bar
yes
no
closed
no
no
yes
yes
140 E. Marietta St. 770-479-1616
Steak & Seafood
no
SPIRITS RESERV.
thedowntownkitchen.com
Seafood
no
goincoastalseafood.com
Local on North localonnorth.com
no
mammaonesta.com/canton-ga
Queenie’s
151 W. Main St. 770-213-4897
Southern no $$ Cooking
eatatqueenies.com
R&M Sandwich Shop
117 W. Main St. 770-479-4413
Custom-made Sandwiches
no
$
Look for R&M on Facebook.
Steep Tea House - American $-$$ A Moye Tea Company Saturday
198 North St. 770-213-8890 thesteepteahouse.com
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Brunch
$ $-$$ closed
Tues.-Sat.
Fri.& Sat.
$ = most entrees under $10 • $$ = most entrees $10 - $15 • $$$ = most entrees $15 - $20 • $$$$ = most entrees over $20
Your complete guide to casual and upscale sit-down dining in downtown Canton
Innovation of Liposculpture: The Next Evolution BY MICHAEL LITREL, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
A woman may diet, shedding half her body weight. She may exercise until she can run a marathon. And, yet, she may still find herself with incredibly stubborn trouble areas of fat that won’t budge. Or, she may be very close to the sculpted look she’s always dreamed of, without reaching her desired results. Liposculpture could be the answer. How does liposculpture differ from traditional liposuction? Like traditional lipo, liposculpture is an office procedure that permanently removes fat deposits from targeted areas. But, liposculpture then utilizes the technique of fat Injections to sculpt the body, and actually add desired curves where there were none before. A minimally invasive technique is used to safely and effectively remove excess fat from the donor site (typically the abdomen, flanks, hips or thighs). The removed fat is then cleaned and processed before it’s re-injected into target areas through a small incision. Essentially, a woman says “Goodbye!” to unwanted fat and “Hello!” to an enhanced look somewhere else.
final pounds off, but she needs some support to help her achieve her ideal final goal. Liposculpture is an innovation in surgical body shaping that can help a woman achieve her desired look when weight loss and exercise fall short. However, liposculpture should not be confused with a weight loss procedure. If a woman needs to lose weight, she first needs to make healthy lifestyle changes before seeking the care of a surgeon to perform this procedure.
What to expect after liposculpture.
After the procedure, a patient can expect some bruising and swelling. She’ll wear a compression girdle for two weeks up to a month, depending on how extensive the procedure and how quickly healing takes place. Typically, all swelling and bruising are gone within about three weeks. Once recovery is complete, a patient can expect her body to have a more sculpted appearance, with consistent reinforcement from regular exercise. While liposculpture is not a weight loss method, it can help a woman get past those final hurdles for a look that helps her feel her best.
The ideal candidate.
A good candidate for liposculpture is a healthy individual who eats nutritious foods, exercises regularly and can manage stress well. The individual is ideally no more than 20-25 pounds from her ideal weight. She’s done all the right things to get or keep those
Dr. Michael Litrel, a board-certified OB-GYN and Urogynecologist at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, writes books and essays on faith, family and health. www.cherokeewomenshealth.com.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Personalized Care in a Lovely W
PHOTOS BY BETH FORNUTO
hat do you want for a senior loved one when it’s time for care beyond what the family can provide? If you’re like most people, you want a simple place that’s beautiful, safe and comfortable. A place where individualized care is the focus, so you can be free from worry. Opening in early fall, Manor Lake BridgeMill is designed to be the kind of place you want your loved one to live. The community, locally owned and operated, is an uncomplicated single-story building with a warm inviting atmosphere. Professionals handle the details of daily living so residents can spend their time doing what they enjoy. Assisted living, like what is offered at Manor Lake, is for seniors who are mostly independent but need help with things like medications, housekeeping, laundry and cooking meals. Depending on their abilities, seniors can come and go as they please or stay safely in the community with their friends. Of course, the primary focus will be the care of individual residents. Each senior at Manor Lake will
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
receive a personalized plan, based on the nurse’s assessment and the information and directives provided by the resident’s physician. The personal plan will be followed every day, so the resident receives what he or she needs when it’s needed. Social worker and Executive Director Kate Weise brings more than 23 years of experience to the Canton community, located in the BridgeMill area. Technology plays an important role for residents at Manor Lake. Electronic medication administration records - proven to improve patient safety - offers Kate Weise one of many new and innovative tools used in the community. Access to the building and rooms is keyless with an RFID bracelet or fob, which is used by the residents, their families, and the staff. “This creates a more secure environment, and prevents unwanted
y, Homelike, Setting visitors from getting into rooms,” Weise said. A care staff of certified nursing assistants is available to meet the needs of the residents. Licensed practical nurses oversee the residents’ care, and access to a registered nurse is available. Because it’s important to stay active and busy, residents can explore the community with outings to local shopping and plays, visits to restaurants and community events. There’s always fun and adventure in the area and, with Manor Lake providing the transportation, residents can sit back and enjoy the ride. For those looking for a late-night snack, the Creekmore Café is open 24 hours a day. The café offers fresh pastries, yogurt, fruit and other favorite snacks to chase away those night time hunger pangs. A private dining room gives residents and their families a place to gather for special occasions or just to enjoy a private meal together. An onsite salon makes it easy for men and women to get a haircut, manicure and pedicure. Manor Lake BridgeMill offers on-site physical, occupational and speech therapy services to
residents through The Weston Group, and a fitness room for individual or group exercises. The Grove is the memory care neighborhood that utilizes the Reflections program to provide unique care and programming for seniors dealing with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The Grove has a private fenced courtyard, giving residents the chance to spend time outdoors in the garden without the worry of wandering away. With its one-story design and personal atmosphere, seniors will find the community easy to navigate. The building surrounds a beautiful courtyard with gardens for quiet strolls and watching nature, creating a relaxing atmosphere. “Keeping residents active is very important. It reduces the need for medications, which decreases the chance of falls, illnesses or stumbles. It’s important to maintain an active lifestyle and we want to make sure that activities are varied and age appropriate,” Weise said. Care is at the core of Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care BridgeMill. Professional care combined with ease and simplicity is what Manor Lake brings to Canton.
131 Holly St., Canton GA 30114
678-990-5055
www.manorlakebr.com
Sponsored Content
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Scouting Milestones
Claire and friends brought music to St. George Village as part of her Gold Award project.
Striking Gold in Cherokee County BY GLORIA AVILLAR
In the 11 years I’ve been a Girl Scout leader, the question I get asked the most, aside from “Do you have any Thin Mints?” is, “Do Girl Scouts have anything like the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Award?” Although it’s unfortunate that so many people are unaware, this question gives me the chance to talk about the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in the Girl Scouts. Our Gold Award recognizes girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through community service projects that have a sustainable impact on our community and beyond.
Currently working on their Gold Award are, from left: Lilli G., Alyssa S., Catherine W., Emily H. and Maddie A. The girls are working as counselors at Camp Camellia Rose, the local day camp. 34
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Originally called The Golden Eaglet, this award has been a part of the Girl Scouts since 1916; more than 1 million young women have earned the award. To execute a Gold Award project, a girl must first identify a local issue that she feels passionately about, one she wishes to be positively affected by her program. She must identify the root cause of the issue and create a plan to address it. While working on her project, she also must educate people about the issue and inspire them to get involved. Finally, her project must be sustainable, continuing once her efforts are complete. Just like the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Award, the Gold Award often plays a critical role in the college acceptance and scholarship process. Girls can enter the armed forces one rank higher than other recruits, and recipients usually have higher success rates when applying for jobs. In 2017, three Cherokee County girls were among 93 in the Greater Atlanta area to earn a Gold Award. Olivia D. created the exCHANGE Club at Cherokee High School, which bridged the communication gap between English-speaking and Spanishspeaking students. Alayna D. traveled to Nairobi, Kenya, to help administer free vision screenings to 350 students at Machakos High School, resulting in 87 children receiving free prescription eyeglasses. Claire C. coordinated and performed classical musical concerts at nine assisted-living facilities in Cherokee County. For their efforts, Olivia received a $7,000 college scholarship and Claire was given the Council Young Women of Distinction Award by Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta. This summer, two Cherokee High School seniors will work toward their Gold Awards. Emily H. will create a lesson plan for Cherokee High School photography classes that will teach the students portrait-taking techniques. These new skills will be used by the students to provide senior photo services to fellow students
Alayna D. (Woodstock High), Claire C. (River Ridge High) and Olivia D. (Cherokee High).
in need. Maddie A. will create a video program to educate parents of school-aged children about head lice prevention and what to do if their children get lice. She also wants to provide every elementary and middle school nurse in Cherokee County with a lice-prevention kit. In 2019, three juniors currently at Woodstock High will be ready to complete their projects. Catherine W. will create a lending closet of formal band attire for the school. Lilli G’s goal is to educate middle-school students about the advantages and benefits of choosing JROTC as a high school elective, while dispelling the myth that being in the JROTC means a military commitment after graduation. Alyssa S. plans to work with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to create a support system for families of children going through cancer treatment. The Girl Scouts mission is to build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place – and our local Gold Award Girl Scouts truly exemplify this goal. They see a problem and then do their part to make a change, while encouraging others to take action. We all benefit from their efforts. With less than 6 percent of eligible Girl Scouts earning this award nationally, Cherokee County is definitely a great place to strike Gold. For more information about Girl Scouts, visit www.girlscouts.org.
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Aug. 30
Sip ‘n’ Strokes, La Parrilla. 1428 Towne
Lake Pkwy., Suite 107. $40 members/$50 non-members. Cost includes painting instruction and canvas painting. Lunch is separate. Bring snacks and drinks if desired.
Aug. 27-28
Mystery Overnight Trip. Register July 26. Cost is $250 double room per person/$350 single room.
Seniors on the Move CHEROKEE RECREATION AND PARKS 7545 Main St., Woodstock, 770-924-7768, www.crpa.net
For a $24 yearly fee, the Silver Roamers attend monthly gatherings, discuss events and get discounts on trips and can win prizes.
July 19
Tennessee Valley Railroad and Jason’s Deli. Leaves 8 a.m. from recreation
center, 8:30 a.m. boys and girls club. $40 members/$50 non-members.
July 31
Mercedes Benz, Mollie B’s. Leaves 8
Aug. 8, Oct. 17
Bees Knees Cooking Class.
10:30 a.m. in the recreation center community room. $25 members/$35 non-members.
Adult Coloring. Noon in the recreation center community room. $5 members/$10 non-members. Cost includes coloring books, colored pencils and lunch. Bring your own if you want.
Oct. 11
Oct. 21-25
at The Lodge at Bridgemill. $15 per person. Come dressed for the 1950s (not required) and enjoy good food, live music and dancing.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Sept. 4, Oct. 8, Nov. 13
Leaves 8:30 a.m. from boys and girls club, 9 a.m. recreation center. $50 members/$60 non-members.
CNN Center, Dantanna’s Downtown.
Aug. 2
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visits to Stone Mountain, Foxfire Museum, Sulzbacher Roman Holiday Riverboat and more. Call Frankie Sanders for more details.
Decatur Square Tour with Jim Howe, Sweet Melissa. Leaves 8:30 a.m. from the
Aug. 17
from boys and girls club, 9 a.m. recreation center. $35 members/ $45 non-members.
Senior Adventure Camp. Trips include
Aug. 9
a.m. from boys and girls club, 8:30 a.m. recreation center. $60 members/$70 nonmembers.
WSBTV, The Varsity. Leaves 8:30 a.m.
Sept. 10-14
1950s Flashback Sock Hop dance, The Varsity food truck. 5:30 p.m.
boys and girls club, 9 a.m. recreation center. $40 members/$50 non-members.
Fall Trip to Thomasville, GA. Non-refundable $150 deposit due July 9. Final payment due Sept. 1. $600 double room/$900 single room. Membership not required.
Oct. 31
Riverview Cemetery Tour, Local on North. Meet at Local on North in Canton at 11:30 a.m. $40 members, $50 non-members.
Senior Sense
Georgia Heritage BY DELIA HALVERSON
I have lived in six different states, and it has been an interest of mine to find out what I can about the background of each state. My first experience with Georgia was as a child from the ages 2 to 8. We lived in South Georgia, which is a completely different state from metro Atlanta. One of the places we lived was called the Mill Village of Albany, because the community centered around a thread mill. I remember seeing the machines making thread from cotton, an important product for farmers until the boll weevil ruined most crops. When we lived in North Dakota in 1976, we told our friends we were moving to Georgia, and they said, “Why do you want to live in that swamp state?” All they knew about Georgia was the Okefenokee Swamp. They knew nothing of the North Georgia mountains. Of course, most Dakotans don’t like mountains anyway, because they block their view of the distant horizon. They also didn’t know that we have a great coastline that has lovely barrier islands. My favorite is Cumberland Island, just north of the Florida line. It can be reached only by shuttle boats. It was once the resort home of the rich and famous, but now has wild horses and is a prime example of what the land looked like when the Europeans first landed. There are many things that even Georgians do not know. • Georgia is named after George II of Great Britain and was one of the 13 original colonies. • James Oglethorpe envisioned Georgia as a refuge for debtors and the poor, and in 1733 more than 100 settlers arrived in what is now Savannah. • Georgia is the eighth most populous state in the country, with more than 10 million people. • There have been five capitals in Georgia’s history: Savannah, Augusta, Louisville, Milledgeville and Atlanta. • Slavery originally was forbidden in Georgia, but the ban was overturned in 1749. • Wesleyan College (in Macon) was the first college for women in the U.S. • During the Civil War, the Andersonville Prison (in southwest Georgia) held 45,000 Union soldiers, 13,000 of whom died of malnutrition, disease, starvation or exposure. • In the 1800s, Native Americans in Georgia were rounded up and became a part of the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. • The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., was made of marble from Tate, Ga. • Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, the Home Depot, Turner Broadcasting and United Parcel Service all are headquartered in Georgia.
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. AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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EVERYDAY The slower pace of summer is a good time to follow up on a few of our past feature stories, and to see how the journey continues, long after you read about it in our magazine. While summer seems to fly by for most of us, it can move at an agonizing pace if you are trudging through a difficult season. Please continue to pray for them and support them as you feel led.
Heather Miller
Myles Howard
In March, Myles Howard, a River Ridge High School special needs student, suddenly fell ill after celebrating his 18th birthday. Myles was diagnosed with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. After a code blue emergency, a life-flight helicopter ride and 69 long days in the hospital fighting for his life, Paula and Neal finally took their son home, where he continues to recover and receive therapy. “We have so many people to thank, but first we must thank God for this miracle. There were many days and weeks that we did not feel this would happen. Thousands of friends, neighbors and strangers rallied and prayed for us each day throughout our journey, and we honestly could not have made it through without it. We want to thank the Ruth family for their undying love and support for Myles and our family, and especially Emily, who made it her mission to raise funds for us,” said Neal, Myle’s dad.
'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'
— 2 Corinthians 12:9
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Heather Miller, young mom and wife of Holly Springs Mayor Steve Miller, has battled cancer since age 14. She is now fighting her toughest battle: HER2 positive breast cancer, stage 4. Having reached her lifetime limit of radiation and, because chemotherapy negatively impacts her heart, Heather qualified for Kadcycla, a clinical trial cancer drug that interferes with the growth of cancer cells in the body. She has diligently and creatively managed to remain stable (no growth) with a strict regimen of a plant- and fruit-based diet, essential oils, colonics, acupuncture and other natural remedies, along with her Kadcycla infusions every three weeks. With an unfailing faith, spirit and determination, Heather approaches each new day as a blessing and inspires and blesses everyone she encounters. Please continue to pray for Heather and her family.
Trey Powell
Last month, we featured Trey Powell’s journey with what began as a foot infection and has resulted in numerous surgeries and an amputation. The Powell family’s nightmare continues, as doctors try to get ahead of the infection. Trey has experienced setbacks, secondary infections, kidney complications and all that accompanies aggressive treatment. “Before it’s over, Trey will entirely lose the femur before they can close up the leg, and he now has no chance at a prosthesis. We have done dialysis to remove all excess fluid that the kidneys have been retaining. We are hoping the infection is gone and we can finally close the leg and get him to rehab. We are hopeful that the kidneys and bone marrow will recover. It is just going to take a while. Thank you for all your help and everything you have done for us. I am most thankful,” said Leslie, Trey’s wife. Please pray for relief for this sweet family and complete healing of their dad and husband. www.gofundme.com/supporting-treydiabetic-amputee.
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.
WELLSTAR & MAYO CLINIC
WORKING TOGETHER. WORKING FOR YOU. At WellStar Health System, we want every patient to receive the care they need right here in Georgia. As a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, our doctors have special access to Mayo Clinic knowledge, expertise and resources. And you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing we’re here for you.
ASK YOUR WELLSTAR PHYSICIAN ABOUT THE MAYO CLINIC CARE NETWORK. WellStar is the first health system in Georgia to become a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.
wellstar.org/mayo 770-956-STAR (7827) AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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HELPING HANDS
Above, a combined worship team leads a fifth-Sunday service. Pastors Elbert Davis, top right, and John Valentine, preached at the April Power in Unity service at Church of the Messiah, Canton.
Power in Unity
July 29 Worship Service Promotes ‘One Kingdom in Cherokee’ BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Who would have thought a 2,000-yearold prayer would be answered in 2018 in our county? Jesus prayed, “So that they may be brought into complete unity” (John 17:23). It’s a prayer that has come to fruition through the Concerned Clergy of Cherokee (C4), and will be demonstrated by a countywide worship service set for July 29 at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater in Woodstock. The mega worship event, currently involving 23 churches, will begin at 5:15 p.m. when participants can enjoy food trucks, inflatables and other activities. Representatives of local nonprofits will
be at display tables in the worship area. At 6 p.m., a combined praise team will kick off the worship service, which will include testimonies, prayer, several speakers and “lots of worship to celebrate that we are one Kingdom in Cherokee,” said Fred Goodwin, senior pastor of Church of the Messiah and president of the Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association (CCMA). Among the churches participating are Allen Temple AME, Woodstock First Baptist, Momentum and Dwelling Place. The spirit of cooperation among the different denominations is unparalleled, and something the organizers hope will continue to grow.
“Two-and-half years ago, after the tragic shooting at the AME church in Charleston, pastors associated with the CCMA asked me to make a concerted effort to connect more fully with our black and hispanic pastors in Cherokee,” Goodwin said. “This gave birth to Concerned Clergy of Cherokee (C4), a network of multi-racial, multi-ethnic pastors and community leaders, who began meeting monthly for fellowship, sharing and prayer.” Kandi Patterson is the ministry coordinator for Power in Unity, and Mike Saunders and his wife, Romanzia, lead the C4 group. “Several years before moving to Canton, God had given me the vision and call of what he wanted to take place in Cherokee County. I was unaware of the who, what and why until I moved here and started attending CCMA meetings where C4 was birthed,” Saunders said. “The vision of C4 is that through the combined efforts and example of the church, we would be unified and equipped to address some of the social, economical, continued on page 60 Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, author, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays along the Etowah River and loves serving at Woodstock City Church.
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
God Got a Head Start BY JEREMY ISAACS
On July 4, 1776, our forefathers were in Philadelphia, ratifying the Declaration of Independence, arguably the most important day in the history of our country. On the same day, it is purported King George III was sitting in his British home and wrote in his journal, “nothing of importance happened today.” Before social media and email, it took time for news to spread. It would be weeks before King George found out the 13 colonies had declared independence from British rule, but just because he didn’t know it was happening, didn’t mean it wasn’t happening. I think one of my favorite attributes of God is the way he builds suspense in my life even though he’s already solved the problem before I realized I had one. God is all knowing and all powerful, which means he’s never unsure or unable. I’m always unsure and unable. I wonder how and when God will do what I need him to do, I talk to him like he needs to be reminded or is taking suggestions for solutions, but he doesn’t. God is always working and moving, and even when I can’t see or figure out what he’s up to, he’s always up to something; something good. I love the way John Piper says it, “God is always doing 10,000 things in your life, and you may be aware of three of them.”
In the Old Testament, Moses was trying to talk his way out of being the deliverer, and he thought he had stumped God by informing him of his speech impediment? I love God’s response, “Your brother Aaron is on his way to meet you now.” Moses didn’t know he was going to need Aaron when the day started, but God was sending him before Moses knew he needed him. Later, in the New Testament, the disciples asked Jesus how they would get enough food to feed 5,000 people and Jesus acted like they needed to come up with a plan, but the Bible says, “He already knew what he was going to do.” Whatever has you worried right now, remember, God got a head start, a pretty big one, actually. He began working on your life before you were born. He is always right on time, not because he’s lucky, but because he’s been standing at that moment in time before time began. So, take a breath, and remember God got a head start and he’s going meet you there.
Jeremy Isaacs is the lead pastor of Canton Church. He and his wife, Corrie, live in Canton and have four children. He blogs regularly at jeremyisaacs.org.
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Rob’s Rescues This dog’s name is Bailey. She is a Beagle and about 5 years old and is tricolor. She is not very hyper but does like to sniff around the place. She was very easy to get a picture with, which is not always the case. Bailey is a friendly dog and an owner surrender that was brought into the shelter recently. This cat’s name is Colleen. I have a video of her on my Facebook page making dove noises. That is the sound she makes. She has a stumpy tail and is about 8 years old. She was brought into the shelter as a stray in February, so she has been here a long time. Please adopt her.
Last year I went to Spain, and there is a feral cat colony in a town called Lloret de Mar that the community helps keep in shape. It is a park with benches, and actually a bit of a tourist destination. People go and hang out with the cats and don’t disturb them. We have feral cat colonies here. There is one at Whispering Pines trailer park. This is going to be torn down soon, and the cats need help. The Grey Project is only four women in Canton and they do most of the work with all of our feral cat colonies. People often want to know how to help in the community. Contact me or the Grey Project and help with spaying, neutering, feeding and healthcare of feral cats. I believe that we have to help these cats right now. www.facebook.com/thegreyprojectga.
A Guest at Elm Street Above, one of the feral cat colonies needing help in Cherokee County, Ga. Top right, a scene from a feral cat colony park in Lloret de Mar, Spain.
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.
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On July 6, at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, I am going to be a guest on stage with Joe Lemmo and the iThink Improv Troupe. They say it’s going to be a hilarious night, and I am super excited to be part of it. Please visit www.elmstreetarts.org/ ithink-improv for more information.
Follow Rob on Facebook! @robsrescues
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
A Day in the Life of a Veterinarian BY DR. CHRISTOPHER ALVEY
One question I am asked often is, “What is a typical day for a vet?” Although there are no “typical” days in the veterinary field, there are constants and variables like any other profession. Yes, I do get to work with puppies and kittens, and, yes, putting down animals is always difficult, but this is only a fraction of what vets do. What is a typical day for a veterinarian? It’s a hard question, but, as any medical professional will tell you, it involves hard work, a little creative thinking, a lot of flexibility and listening. My patients do not speak in a traditional language, but if I listen with my hands, with my ears, and with the tools of the trade, each patient begins to tell me the story of how they are feeling. In the words of A.A. Milne, “Some people talk to animals. Not all listen though. That’s the problem.” Some days for a veterinarian are filled with exams: ear infections, limping pets, new puppies (my favorite), vomiting and diarrhea. These are the bulk of what we see, and where I draw on my eight years of formal education, my 30 years of experience, and each one my senses — especially listening to pets’ owners. It’s important to build a relationship with clients to fully understand their needs, and building this bond over time ensures their trust and confidence. Other days are spent in surgery (another personal favorite). Every surgery is different, and the difficulty ranges dramatically. One surgery could be as simple as a neuter, and another might
involve exploratory surgery finding a sock the pet’s owner has been missing. Sometimes vets must be the advocate for the patient. This is especially difficult when the best care for the animal is euthanasia. I’ll never reach a point where this becomes a natural part of my job, but, when I truly believe that euthanasia is the best option, I will begin advising and teaching owners about their pet’s current situation, the available treatments, if any, and possible outcomes. As hard as this part of the job is, there are times when this is the best option, and it is an incredible responsibility that I take seriously. There are veterinarians who work for the military, those who work with large animals, or specialize in specific body systems. The field of veterinary medicine is improving constantly, and I hope it continues, so we can continue to provide care for those who cannot ask for it themselves. I was lucky that I chose this career at a young age and stuck with it. Because of that choice, I am truly blessed to start every day in a career that I love, and, one day, I will leave the veterinary community in the capable hands of the next generation of veterinarians. Dr. Alvey began BridgeMill Animal Hospital in 2004. The Western Kentucky University graduate received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Auburn University, and lives in Cherokee County with his wife, two children, four dogs and two cats.
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • Canton, GA 30114 770-479-3090 • www.SequoyahRegionalLibrary.org
Summer Reading Program
Lasts through July 31, visit your local library to participate in the Summer Reading Program. Adults, teens and children may complete activities at the library to win prizes. All through summer, attend shows, events, animal visits and more; all free of charge.
R.T. JONES 116 Brown Industrial Parkway • 770-479-3090
July 9
Kids Knit and Crochet at 10:15 a.m. Kids can learn to knit
and crochet on Mondays with the Soleil Knit and Crochet Club. Materials provided. For ages 9 and older; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; call 770-479-3090 to sign up.
July 10
Make a Butterfly Garden at 2 p.m. The local award-winning Laurel Garden Club is visiting to help kids make butterfly gardens. Materials provided. For ages 5-9; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; call 770-479-3090 to sign up.
July 11
It’s Crystal Clear at 3 p.m. In this rocks and minerals program, science gurus Sharon Christensen and Kim Fowler will help participants make crystals to take home. For ages 9 and older; children must be accompanied by an adult.
July 12
Make a Calming Bottle at 10:30 a.m. Create beautiful calming bottles using basic, simple ingredients. You’ll be amazed at their soothing, calming effect. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
July 13
The library’s Lego robotics stole the show at the R.T. Jones Technology Fair, where visitors learned about coding, e-library resources, and how to check out eBooks and audiobooks with their library cards.
July 21
Adventure Awaits! Dungeons and Dragons at noon. Take
with. Make your own cactus pillow. Materials provided. For ages 13 and older.
a seat at the table, grab some dice, and step into the boots of a hero for the monthly Dungeons and Dragons game. Beginners are welcome. All materials provided, or you may bring your own. For ages 12 and older.
July 14
July 25
Kendama? Come join our club. Nick Dodenhoff from Kendama USA will be leading and teaching. No knowledge or previous experience required. Bring your Kendama.
by viewing their displayed art. Refreshments provided. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Call 770-479-3090 (Ext. 228) to register a piece of art for display.
DIY Cactus Pillows at 2 p.m. Finally, a cactus you can snuggle
Teen Kendama Club at 1:30 p.m. Know a thing or two about
July 19
Adam Boehmer, Renowned Juggler Extraordinaire at 10:30
a.m. Witness firsthand the amazing talent of Adam Boehmer as he wows with his juggling expertise. Highly entertaining and engaging. Arrive early for the best seats. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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Patron Art Gallery at 5 p.m. Celebrate our talented patron artists
July 31
Teen Movie/Book Talk and Chit-Chat Night at 3 p.m. Tweens and teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join the Teen Advisory Board for a night of book/movie talks and chit-chat. Discussion includes the popular Young Adult author Becky Albertalli and her works. Come prepared to talk about themes, favorite characters and more.
HICKORY FLAT 2740 East Cherokee Drive • 770-345-7565
July 9
Family Bingo Night at 6 p.m. Join the fun and win prizes.
Refreshments provided. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
July 11
Book Birdhouses at 11:30 a.m. Build your own DIY book birdhouse. Materials provided by The Home Depot and Little Golden Books. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; call 770-345-7565 to sign up.
July 11, 18
Music and Moves at 10:30 a.m. Get moving and grooving
with friends from Go Noodle. It’ll be a dance party to remember. Children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
July 13
Mom-Dad and Me Yoga at 10:30 a.m. Explore and enjoy
fun yoga stretches for parents and children with certified personal trainer Lisa Dudash. Registration required; call 770-345-7565 to sign up.
July 16
Singing Bee at 11 a.m. Compete for prizes by finishing
the lyrics to classic songs in this competitive sing-along. Refreshments provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
July 17
Manga Club at 5 p.m. Teens are encouraged to read and discuss different manga series and related topics. The program encourages reading and group discussion in a fun and innovative way. Refreshments provided.
July 19
Jeffini’s Reading Rock Stars Finale at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy
musical magic and a puppet show with Jeffini the Great as the Summer Reading Program winds down. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
July 25
Out of the Box at 6 p.m. Have fun and create something
unique. Materials provided courtesy of Out of the Box. For all ages; children 9 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required and opens July 11; call 770-345-7565 to sign up.
July 26
Teen 2016-2017 Cringe Night at 4 p.m. Tweens and teens in grades 6-12 are invited to join the Teen Advisory Board to re-live some of the most cringe-worthy fads and trends of 2016 and 2017.
Golden Rule Doesn’t Apply to Car Insurance BY ROBERT TIDWELL
Most of us are familiar with what is considered the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” That is an excellent maxim to live by. However, when it comes to the world of car insurance, most people are completely unaware that they treat others far better than they treat themselves, and that should not be the case. Georgia law requires that everyone who owns a car and uses public roads must purchase automobile liability insurance. Many people are unaware that each policy of automobile liability insurance also must include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage provides you with available insurance to cover your medical expenses, and pain and suffering, if the person who caused your wreck does not have automobile liability insurance, as required by law, or in some instances, not have enough liability insurance to cover your losses. The default rule in Georgia is that your UM coverage will equal the amount of liability insurance you purchase. In other words, if you purchase $250,000 of liability insurance to cover the victim’s injuries when you cause a wreck, you also will have $250,000 in UM coverage protecting you from uninsured drivers who injure you in a wreck. This is where many people unwittingly make a mistake. Many people elect to purchase smaller amounts of UM coverage; or even completely reject UM coverage altogether. Some agents (but mostly direct purchase websites) strongly suggest that you can save money by choosing reduced UM coverage. The savings is negligible at best. What ends up happening is that you purchase $250,000 of liability coverage that may be accessed by another person if you injure them in a wreck, while only purchasing $25,000 (or less) of UM coverage to protect you if an uninsured driver injures you. This is a tragic scenario when people, who were seriously injured by an uninsured driver, learn that the $80 of yearly savings cost them $250,000 worth of UM coverage when they needed it. The result is medical bills that they must pay out of pocket, even though the wreck was not their fault. Contact your car insurance provider to have your coverage reviewed and make certain you are protecting yourself fully. A qualified attorney can assist you with this review, as well.
Robert Tidwell is a personal injury trial lawyer at Tidwell Strimban, LLC in Woodstock, where he lives with his bride Lori, and their two daughters. www.tidwellstrimban.com. AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Around & About JULY Friday 6 Night LiveWoodstock Series The 2018
, presented by Reformation Brewery, offers live music and activities 6-9 p.m. The July 6 theme is Downtown Dance Party. Aug. 3 is Superhero Night, Sept. 7 is Art Night, Oct. 5 is Roaring 20s Night, Nov. 2 is Night of Thanks, and Dec. 7 is Christmas in Downtown. 770-924-0406. visitwoodstockga.com.
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Woodstock Parks and Recreation and ABC Easel present PaintN-Paws Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Woofstock Park, 150 Dupree Road. Create a special keepsake with your furry friend. Provided: Nontoxic paint, stencils, stamps, colored pencils, oil pastels, a variety of design tools and mat board. $10 per pet, pre-registration encouraged. Contact Angela Kirby at 678-478-3002 or abceasel@gmail.com.
annual Peacocks 7 Second Fly Virtual Race, sponsored
by the Bariatric Weight Loss Family Foundation, a nonprofit that focuses on the importance of good health. The event, set for 9 a.m.-1 p.m., and participants can take part by running or walking in their neighborhoods. For more details, visit www.bwlfamily.org.
will be held at the Cherokee Recreation and Parks annex, 7545 Main St., Woodstock. Sessions available for all ages, preschool through high school. Pre-registration is required by calling 770-924-7768. www.crpa.net.
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Volunteers are still needed for the 12th annual Give a Kid a Chance — Cherokee Back-to-School Bash, set for 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Hillside United Methodist in Woodstock and First Baptist Church in Canton. Sign up at www.giveakidachance.org.
Woodstock Farm Fresh Market, 8:30 a.m.-noon, every Saturday
through October. Market Street, downtown Woodstock. For more information, call 770-924-0406 or email Kyle Bennett at kbennett@woodstockga.gov.
Farmers Market at River Church, 2-6 p.m, Tuesdays through October. 2335 Sixes Road, Canton, 30114. 770-485-1975.
Waleska Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursdays through Nov. 1. Heritage
Fellowship Baptist Church, 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Waleska. 404-805-7468.
Volunteer Aging Council Luncheons The $5 luncheons are fundraisers for programs that help the nonprofit meet the needs of less fortunate seniors and veterans in Cherokee County. Bring a friend, coworker or family member with you and enjoy lunch while supporting the seniors and veterans of Cherokee County. All luncheons are held 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on the third Friday of each month. Dine-in or takeout available. RSVP the location, so the chefs have a head count.
July 20: Benton House, 3385 Trickum Road, Woodstock Aug. 17: Autumn Leaves of Towne Lake, 1962 Eagle Drive, Woodstock Sept. 21: Cameron Hall of Canton, 240 Marietta Highway, Canton Oct. 19: The Oaks at Towne Lake, 4580 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock Nov. 16: Brookdale Neese, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Departure, 7:30-10:30 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. Free admission. http://loveandtheft.com.
The Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association will meet at 10 a.m. at the
Gordon County Historical Society, 335 S. Wall St. (U.S. Highway 41), Calhoun. Guest speaker is past President W. Jeff Bishop; topic is the Journey to Indian Country. The third presentation in the series commemorating the 180th anniversary of the Cherokee removal from Georgia.
Main Street Woodstock announces sessions with Always 19 the return of WDSTK Roots Music 9, 23 Art Be Creative (ABC) Easel Nights. The events will take place 7-9
Farmers Markets
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Summer Concert 14 Woodstock Series continues with the band
p.m. on the third Thursday of each month through August, on the Elm Street Arts Village Event Green. July 19: Kurt Wheeler. Aug. 16: Jonathan Peyton. Shows are free. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, food and beverages.
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Bend Your Knees, Inc. is hosting the seventh annual Collins Dixon Bend Your Knees 5K at First Baptist Church in Canton. The fundraiser is designed to raise awareness of childhood brain cancer and raise funds to support families facing the battle and journey of a child with a cancerous brain tumor. For details, visit www.bendyourknees.org.
Movies in the Park in downtown Woodstock are free and begin around 8:50 p.m. at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Children’s activities before the movie are provided by BridgePointe Church. Snacks will be available for purchase. July 21: “Star Wars – The Last Jedi,” Aug. 18: “Sherlock Gnomes” (starts around 8:30 p.m.), and Sept. 15: To be determined (starts around 7:50 p.m.). Workout for Water, hosted by Burn Boot Camp Woodstock, starts at 9 a.m. at 1105 Parkside Lane, #1100, Woodstock. The fundraiser is collecting money to bring clean water to families worldwide with no access to safe drinking water. For details, or to register, visit www.workoutforwater.com/ event/burnbootcamp, email woodstock@ burnbootcamp.com or call 843-226-0392. movie night featuring 27 Family “Paddington 2” at the sports field at
First Baptist Woodstock, 11905 Highway 92. Starts at 8:30 p.m. Bring chairs or blankets.
Would You Stop Mumbling? BY DR. CHRISTA NELMS
Many patients who seek firsttime help for hearing loss have been encouraged to do so by a spouse or a family member who has complained that their loved one has hearing loss. Typically, the patient will disagree with their family and say, “They mumble, and, if they would speak more clearly, there would be no problem.” Often, the person with the hearing problem is the last to notice it. Studies have shown that the average person has been having trouble hearing for about seven to 10 years before he or she finally decides to check his or her hearing. Changes in hearing typically happen gradually, over years, and start out subtly. These small changes in hearing can make the person with the hearing loss feel like people are mumbling. The problem isn’t being able to hear, but understanding what is heard. This is very common with presbycusis, or hearing loss due to age. Presbycusis often occurs in the higher frequency ranges, where most consonant sounds, which differentiate words,
are found. One of the first clues to hearing loss is mixing up consonant sounds. An example of this would be confusing the word hit with hip, or cat with cap. It is important to have your hearing tested once you start recognizing signs of hearing loss. Delayed treatment can affect the ability to understand words, as hearing loss worsens over time. Success with hearing aids also can be compromised. Hearing also plays a role in balance, and even mild hearing loss can increase the risk of falling. Furthermore, hearing loss is linked to social isolation and the risk of dementia. If you find yourself telling your loved ones to “stop mumbling,” then it is time to make an appointment for an audiological evaluation.
Christa Nelms, Au.D. is a Doctor of Audiology and provider at North Georgia Audiology in Woodstock. She has been practicing since 2000.
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Cherokee Chamber of Commerce
3605 Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com
EVENT CALENDAR July 18
Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED Training
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the chamber office. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. Taught by a representative of the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. $45.
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July 19
Community Outreach Program: CPR/AED and First Aid Training
9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the chamber office. Must be 14 years old to receive certification. Taught by a representative of the Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. $70.
Power Hour
10-11 a.m. at the chamber’s board room. Fast paced networking with fellow business leaders and chamber representatives. Member: $5. Future member: $10, payable at the door.
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Aug. 2
August Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast
7 a.m. Breakfast meetings offer both current and future chamber members the opportunity to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. Advanced single registration: $17. On-site registration: $22. Future member: $30. Advance registration due by 3 p.m. July 31.
Aug. 21
SchmoozaPalooza, a Business Networking Party!
3 RIBBON CUTTINGS 1. Sull Graphics, Inc. 2220 Airport Industrial Drive, Suite 900, Ball Ground 770-757-0049. www.sullgraphics.com. 2. Pet Play Place - Canton 1750 Marietta Highway, Suite 90, Canton 770-733-9123. www.petplayplace.com. 3. Alliance Spine & Pain Centers 134 Riverstone Terrace, Suite 101, Canton 770-926-9033. www.spinepains.com. 48
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4-7 p.m. at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway. Fun and casual networking environment. Exhibitors will have a table top display that will allow them to promote their business and make new contacts while attendees will enjoy door prizes, food and fun while previewing the latest products and services featured at SchmoozaPalooza. Admission is free and open to the public.
Aug. 29
Leadership Symposium
8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. One-day conference features four speakers who will share thought-provoking information to be used both on the job and in life! Cost includes continental breakfast, lunch and two networking breaks. Register by noon Aug. 28. $50 members; $75 future members.
Elm Street
Youth Has No Age BY SIOBHAN BRUMBELOW
There’s something magical about being a child. Their sense of play, wonder and imagination unlocks a creative side that many adults have forgotten. Benjamin Franklin is attributed with saying: “We do not stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing.” As a parent, I often see this in my child. I’m reminded to slow down, be goofy, play — not to grow up too fast. Today, we are trying so hard to achieve more, or to be greater than others in society, but sometimes our greatest achievements are found in the simplest actions or accomplishments. Why is it that we seek out accomplishments under such grandiose circumstances? Think back to when you were a child. What are some of the memories you hold on to? Nine times out of 10, you probably had fun creating something with your imagination. Imagination is defined as “the faculty or action of forming new ideas, or images or concepts of external objects not present to the senses.” Without imagination, there would be no creativity. Without creativity, there would be no art. Without art, history, our past, even life, would not exist. At Elm Street, we encourage being “extraordinary under imaginary circumstances.” Summer camps are a great reflection of that. Children get to express their creativity through an original production in five days. Camps run throughout the summer and sell out fast. Also, we provide entertainment for children and families to relax and enjoy a fun show. This July, we are presenting “Fancy Nancy the Musical.” This lively show is based on the popular children’s books by Jane O’Connor. The cast is comprised of six young adults who love to perform for children and hope to make a creative connection with all of the families who attend this show. Then, we have a new way to escape the ordinary with our Lantern Series. We invite groups and friends to join us on the outdoor event green to reconnect and enjoy an eclectic array of music. Acoustic pop artist Royal Wood, who comes from Canada, will perform July 21. You can find tickets to all of these events and more information on our website: www.elmstreetarts.org. Pablo Picasso said, “Youth has no age.” Why rush through life? Take a breath and live in the moment, escape the ordinary, and don’t stop playing.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
JULY 11-25
WED AT 10:00AM | SAT/SUN AT 2:00PM
Fancy Nancy Presenting Partner: Shoppes at Atlanta
Lantern Series Presenting Partner:
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.
ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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The Impact of Georgia’s New Fiduciary Law BY JOSHUA NELSON
Often, people don’t notice how the yearly legislative session impacts their day-to-day lives. Last March, the Legislature actually approved some sweeping changes to how residents of Georgia should be planning for their future, and the future of their loved ones. The laws changed often are called fiduciary laws, since they deal with how someone acts on another’s behalf, and the standards for those actions. The governor had until May 8 to veto legislation, and, since that time has passed, there will be new legislation that impacts Georgians that becomes effective July 1. Likely, the most impactful for families was that the Georgia Trust Code (HB 121), which hadn’t been changed in a meaningful way since 2010, was broadened and clarified. These changes will allow trustees more flexibility and allow attorneys to draft trusts that can protect more broadly someone’s legacy, as it shifts from them to their children. One of the major things to think about, if you have a trust, is that the new law allows for modification of irrevocable or asset protection trusts, which can protect your family better from the curveballs that life can throw. The next most impactful change to the fiduciary laws was the clarification and improvement of last year’s Georgia
Every Picture Tells A Story Headshots
404.384.2794 404.200.0881
www.jkingimages.com
@ jkingimages
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Power of Attorney Act (HB 897). Last year, there were sweeping changes to the power of attorney act and the statutory power of attorney that provided many benefits for Georgia residents. This year’s changes extend those protections, as well as making the process for revoking a power of attorney less cumbersome. Another very impactful change, if you have children, is the Supporting and Strengthening Families Act (HB 129). This is a major legislative change dealing with the adoption process, and allows a parent to transfer the care and custody of their minor child to a family member or other qualified agent for up to a year, or to a grandparent with no stated time limit via a special power of attorney, without the hassle and cost of a court-based process. If you or your family need more detailed information about legislative changes, they can be accessed at https://legiscan.com/GA.
Joshua Nelson is an elder care law attorney with Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC, 2230 Towne Lake Parkway, Bldg. 900, Suite 200, Woodstock, GA, 30189. www.NelsonElderCareLaw.com.
Staying Safe on the Lake BY CHRISTOPHER PURVIS
Summer is in full swing and what better time to brush up on boating safety? From reminders on wearing life jackets to having your boat voluntarily inspected for proper safety equipment, there are many chances to make this season a safe one for you, your family and friends.
Wear a life jacket.
Wearing a life jacket is critical to surviving a boating accident. Nine out of 10 drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket. This single device may make the difference between life and death for anyone experiencing an emergency on the water. Put it on before leaving the dock and keep it on. Be sure it is properly fitted, in good condition, and securely fastened. Children under age 13 are required by law to wear a life jacket while on board a moving boat (unless the child is in a fully enclosed cabin). Remember: always worn, nobody mourns! About 70 percent of boaters involved in accidents never have taken a safe-boating course and 85 percent of all boating accident fatalities nationwide were due to sudden, unexpected capsizing or falls overboard. We know that education and awareness are the best weapons in preventing boating accidents. Here are some boating safety tips to help you start out right and complete your journey safely:
Take a boating safety course.
Brush up on your boating safety knowledge by taking a certified boating safety course with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 22, which offers handson classroom boating safety courses; you can check their schedule at http://wow. uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=070-02-02 or contact Public Education Officer Greg Fonzeno at flotilla22pe@gmail.com.
Know the laws.
Did you know Georgia boating laws require that you adhere to the 100-foot rule? The 100-foot rule prohibits people from operating all vessels, including personal watercraft (PWC), at a speed greater than idle speed within 100 feet of any vessel that is moored, anchored or
adrift outside normal traffic channels, or within 100 feet of any dock, wharf, pier, piling, bridge structure, person in the water or shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant or other public use area.
Don’t drink and operate a boat. Half of all boating fatalities involve alcohol. Research has shown that four hours in a boat on the water being exposed to noise, vibration, sun, glare, wind and other motion on the water produces “boater’s hypnosis” or fatigue. It slows reaction time as much as if you were legally drunk. Adding alcohol to boating stress factors intensifies their effects. Think before you take that drink.
Get a vessel safety inspection.
When you are out on the water, you want to have fun. Before you head out, put your mind at ease by getting a vessel safety check to assure that you have the proper safety equipment and are familiar with safe boating guidelines. Vessel safety inspections are voluntary, free and can be done by a certified inspector with the U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary Flotilla 22. Vessel safety check events are scheduled at Blockhouse Ramp on Allatoona Lake, July 28 and Sept. 1; at Victoria Harbor Marina, Aug. 4; at Park Marina Docks, Aug. 11; and Wilderness Camp Marina, Aug. 25. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers these inspections as part of its boating safety awareness campaign. Here are some of the questions that will be answered if you have a vessel safety inspection: • Is your boat in top operating condition? • Is all required safety equipment on board and in good condition? • Is your safety equipment readily accessible? • Do you know how to use your equipment properly? • Is there a properly fitted, good condition, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on board for you and every passenger? For more questions concerning boating or water safety, please contact the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office at 678-721-6700.
Christopher Purvis is the lead ranger at Allatoona Lake over Partnerships, Volunteers and Project Security. He has been a ranger on Allatoona Lake since 2005.
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Teen Night
at the Aquatic Center PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAREY HOOD, JUST A FAN PHOTOGRAPHY. WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/CAREYHOODPHOTOS.
Sponsored by the Cherokee Recreation and Parks Agency, and hosted by the Cherokee Aquatic Center, Teen Nights (ages 13 and older) are a fun opportunity for local youth to meet up with friends, hang out and participate in different water activities. A pizza dinner is included. The next Teen Night is scheduled for 7-9 p.m. July 13. For more information, contact the Aquatic Center. 678-880-4760.
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Cherokee By Choice: A World of Opportunity PROVIDED BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
In 2017, the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) launched its most industrious endeavor to date: Cherokee By Choice. The five-year public-private partnership and economic growth campaign transforms big ideas into action. COED has partnered with Power 10, an Atlanta-based capital campaign management group, to raise more than $2 million in pledges over the five-year campaign. This partnership focuses on three goals: • Growing the local workforce. • Growing and diversifying Cherokee’s business and tax base. • Growing building and site inventory for commercial investment. The quiet phase of the campaign began in early February 2018; the public phase began April 13 and ended June 30. Through the collaborative efforts of our community and business leaders, the Cherokee By Choice campaign raised $1,853,750, or 92 percent of the $2 million goal, by June 1. The final investment amount will be publicized on the COED website in July. Even if the goal has been met, there is an ongoing opportunity for investments throughout the five-year campaign. Visit www.cherokeega.org/campaign or call 770-345-0600 for more information. Cherokee By Choice funds will be reinvested into programs and initiatives specifically targeted to ensure businesses prosper and find the talent and resources they need to grow. Some of the investments include: • an interactive mobile workforce training lab geared specifically toward educating our next generation on the wide range of training and career opportunities. • a new, interactive COED website promoting the skilled trades. • a proactive branding campaign that positions Cherokee as the ideal place for business. • a continued focus on smart commercial planning and development.
Keeping Locals Local
One goal we set is to change the statistic that nearly 80 percent of working-age residents leave the county for work each morning. The Cherokee By Choice campaign is working to connect local businesses 54
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Attending the Cherokee by Choice kickoff, from left: Doug Hooker, Atlanta Regional Commission executive director; Misti Martin, COED president; Mark Goddard, Cobb EMC director of commercial marketing; Tim Fernandez, YANMAR America president; Marshall L. Day, Development Authority of Cherokee County chairman; Steven L. Holcomb, Cherokee County Development Authority chairman, and Buzz Ahrens, Cherokee County Board of Commissioners chairman.
that need enthusiastic employees with qualified, exceptional talent, to reduce the overall out-commute of talent and resources that leave the county. This strategy involves two parts. First, most of the residents who commute outside of Cherokee are employed in high-wage industries like information technology and corporate headquarter operations. Part of our plan will be to launch a more aggressive marketing campaign targeting site consultants and project managers that work with these industries, to let them know that Cherokee is a great place for business relocation. This campaign will include creating a national site selection consultant and corporate headquarters visitation program, and partnering with national and regional organizations that will allow us to market to these targeted prospects. Second, our strategy features an educational component designed specifically to grow awareness in the community about local career opportunities. These initiatives include a state-of-the-art mobile training lab and an interactive clearinghouse of local job opportunities on the new COED website, which is expected to launch by the end of summer. This multi-faceted approach to economic growth will help grow and retain existing industry, recruit new businesses into our area, and open a new world of possibilities for Cherokee residents seeking a career closer to home.
Finding Room to Grow
As local job opportunities are created and businesses become fully staffed, they also need room to grow. Companies looking to locate or expand need move-in-ready space that can serve various needs, such as office space, manufacturing and warehouses. COED is working to make space available for more businesses to expand and make Cherokee home. With room to breathe and space to grow, large corporations and international companies are taking note. Inalfa Roof Systems, Jaipur Living, and the adidas SPEEDFACTORY recently settled into the Cherokee 75 Corporate Park, but they’re not the only ones choosing Cherokee. The Circuit, Cherokee’s first ever co-working space, opened its doors last year to give entrepreneurs a sense of community while launching startups close to home. Great ideas take time to incubate and grow. That’s why COED created Fresh Start Cherokee, an initiative focused on providing entrepreneurial education for our next generation, and growth support for our next wave of innovators and startups. Fresh Start Cherokee provides a comfortable environment where entrepreneurs can collaborate and develop innovative continued on page 60 The Cherokee Office of Economic Development is the leading organization for business and film recruitment and industry retention & expansion. For more information, visit www.cherokeega.org.
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F ORECAST 2018 Football
High school coaches preview the 2018 football season.
Cherokee Warriors
Etowah Eagles
Looking to rebound from a tough 2017 season, the Warriors will lean on the experience of their defense as they break in a young quarterback to lead the offense. With five nonregion contests, the Warriors hope to be clicking on offense and defense as they head into their region schedule with the hopes of returning to the playoffs in 2018. The coaching staff has made a strong emphasis on demanding more attention to detail and increasing their tempo at practice. The hope is to create a tougher atmosphere at practice so that Friday nights will seem easier for the players. While we want to be respectful of the rules of the game, and emulate good sportsmanship, our goal for the 2018 season is to be the toughest and most physical team in the region. Tempo and toughness will be key factors in the success of the offensive unit. With the return of some experienced offensive linemen and running back Miles Garret (senior), the offense hopes to see that toughness pay off in the running game. In the passing game, juniors Landon Ergle and Carson Pickens will battle for the role of starting QB while freshman AJ Swann has shown potential as well. They will be looking to get the ball to senior Brandon Bostick and dynamic junior DJ Bynum in the passing game. Overall, the Warriors will look to force the tempo and get the ball into the hands of their playmakers. Defensively, the Warriors did not have the season they wanted in 2017, but have worked extremely hard in the offseason to return the defense to the top of the region this season. The 2018 Warriors will continue to work to play fast and tough. Warrior defense keys to success: line up, adjust, tackle, create turnovers, and play fast. Defensive coordinator Davis Harvey will lean heavily on the seniors and returning starters to make the defense the best it can be. The future appears to be extremely bright for the Warriors, but they must rely on several underclassmen to step up this year, if they are to return to the playoffs in 2018.
Etowah will be losing several offensive starters this season, but returns some key players as well. Nick Maddox, the leading rusher in the county, returns, as well as twoyear starting receiver Jackson Manns and offensive lineman Dominick D’Antonio, a Northwestern University commit. Porfirio Acosta also returns on the OL. Players such as Zach Meyers (OL, senior) and Jesse Sebring (OL, junior) will be counted on to step up this season. Our receivers will be young, but many of them have shown some athleticism that may help them get onto the field this fall. Defensively, we return three starters up front, including two (Cole Milovanovic and Raymone Devezin) who played as sophomores last season. At defensive end, we return three-year starter Dalton Nicolai. Our biggest losses last season come at linebacker, where we will be looking for three new guys. Evan Arvanitis (senior) has had a great offseason and looks to take one of the positions. The other two are definitely up for grabs. At defensive back, we return starter Justin Sherrer, but look to replace three players. Athletes Ameer Salame and Tyler Freas will be fighting for the starting positions. The schedule this season looks to be fun, but challenging. We open with county opponent River Ridge and follow with nonregion games with North Cobb, South Forsyth, Pebblebrook and Hillgrove. As always, our region really will be talented and will test us every week. Our kids have had an excellent offseason in the weight room, and it will be interesting to see which players are prepared to make the transition from freshman/junior varsity to Friday night football.
Head Coach Josh Shaw
Head Coach Dave Svehla
Creekview Grizzlies Head Coach Adam Carter
This was the first spring practice at Creekview in a few years. We were able to get in nine quality practices and an intrasquad scrimmage. I thought the kids responded very well to putting the pads on in May. We will lean heavily on a strong senior class. On offense, we will use our offensive line and senior RB Cade Radam to establish the run. This is by far the biggest offensive line I have had in my career. We have a good QB competition going on with junior Ethan Dirrim and sophomore Brody Rhodes. On defense, we will be led by senior safety Andy Davis and our defensive line. We have a few new players coming out for football for the first time since middle school who should impact our football team immediately. This summer will be very important for the progression of our football team. We will be involved in 7 vs. 7 tournaments at Kennesaw State, UGA and McEachern. We will host two padded camps at Creekview. I also am excited about our rising ninth grade group. As a program, this spring, we have been able to increase our numbers to 110 9th12th graders. We have been involved in a great fundraiser to bring in money for our program. Our booster club is gaining memberships every day. I am blessed with a staff that has found a way to make it through spring practice, driving from all over the metro area. It is an exciting time here at Creekview, I am very proud of what we have accomplished this spring and looking forward to the summer. 56
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Sequoyah Chiefs
Woodstock Wolverines
The Chiefs look to build on last season's playoff appearance, their fifth in six seasons, with five starters back on offense and six returning on defense. The Chiefs’ wing-T offense will have experienced ball handlers in quarterback Collier Pecht (1,117 yards passing in 2017) and running backs Cole Jacobs (889 yards from scrimmage, 11 touchdowns) and Jackson Smith (274 yards rushing), all returning. Others working to earn a spot in the backfield include senior Mason Webster, 5 feet-10, 160 pounds, wingback; senior DJ King, 6 feet-, 180 pounds; and senior D’Angelo Smith, 6 feet, 175 pounds, wingback. The Chiefs will need to rebuild an offensive line that has two main returners in senior Alex Majeed, a 6 feet-4, 290 pounds, offensive tackle, who was an All-Region pick, as well as the Cherokee Gridiron Offensive Lineman of the Year for 2017, junior Wyatt Hampton, a 6 feet-2, 240 pounds offensive guard. Other players fighting for playing time on the offensive line will be senior Cole Stewart, 6 feet, 230 pounds, center; junior Nick Ballance 6 feet-1, 240 pounds, center; senior Spencer Clark, 6 feet, 280 pounds, tackle; junior Connor Johnston, 6 feet, 240 pounds, tackle; senior Matthew Meyer, 6 feet, 240 pounds, guard; and junior Spencer Smith, 6 feet, 230 pounds, guard. At tight end and wide receiver, the Chiefs look to replace two three-year starters with the loss of Wesley Potter and Patrick Ballance. At tight end, they will look to junior Joshua Estrada, 6 feet-1, 180 pounds; senior Adam LaSelva, 6 feet-2, 215 pounds; senior Jordan Bowers 6 feet-1, 230 pounds and senior Shayne Smith, 5 feet-11, 220 pounds. Senior Emmanuel Jenkins, 6 feet-2, 196 pounds; junior Myles McGee, 6 feet-1, 175 pounds and junior Christian Hodgins will compete at wide receiver. On defense, cornerback Emmanuel Jenkins (37 tackles, nine pass breakups) has more than 10 Division I offers. The defensive line will be a strength, with returning starters Spencer Clark, Connor Johnston and Jordan Bowers (six sacks). Others being looked at on the line will be seniors Cole Stewart, David Traynor and Alex Majeed. Linebacker is another strong area for the Chiefs, with returners senior Adam LaSelva, 6 feet-2, who was an All-Region player last season, and junior Grant Gibson, 6 feet-2, 220 pounds. Other players to keep an eye on at linebacker will be Jackson Smith, who also saw action last season, and junior Tray Bray, 5 feet-10, 165 pounds. In the secondary, the Chiefs will have the most spots to replace. With senior Emmanuel Jenkins, 6 feet-2, 196 pounds, who was also an All-Region player last season, as the only returner, the Chiefs will look at junior Myles McGee, 6 feet-1, 175 pounds; senior Mason Webster, 5 feet-10, 160 pounds and senior Cole Jacobs, 5 feet-10, 175 pounds. The kicking game should be solid with returning punter Tyler Price and sophomore Jordan Campbell.
After back to back Sweet 16 playoff appearances, Woodstock is looking to make it back into the postseason again in 2018. To get this accomplished, some new players will have to step up and fill positions vacated by the 25 seniors who graduated off the 2017 team. We believe that we have the players who can fill these positions and make the plays needed for us to be successful. On offense, we have averaged scoring more than 30 points a game for the last five seasons. With five starters back on offense, we will look to continue this success. Trevor Stephens, Andrew Andon and Jaylen Reid are returning on the offensive line from last year. Along with tight end Drew Sheehan and running back Ryan Martin, this should allow us to run the ball more to take off pressure from first-year starting quarterback Dean Braxton. When we do throw the ball, Braxton is very accurate and will be throwing to a good group of wide receivers. A couple of wide receivers really have stepped up this spring. Sebastian Moss, who started six games last year, returns. Radi Krastev, Wes Bruno and Jabari Overton all have had a great spring catching the ball. So, we look to continue our strong passing attack from years past. On defense, we will replace nine starters off the 2017 team, which allowed the fewest points per game over the last five seasons. Again, we feel we have players who can step in and fill these positions. Hardhitting safety Andrew Bartolero returns, along with corner Amin Davis. Joining them in the secondary will be a very talented sophomore, David Daniel. At linebacker, we have a couple of players in Campbell Price and Caleb Conley who saw lots of varsity playing time last year. Both have really stepped up their play in the spring. Travis Bailey and Holden Mumy will join them. These two have pursued the ball relentlessly this spring, and hit when they get to the ball. We were hit hardest by graduation up front on the defensive line. We are looking for Dillion Shackelford to lead a young group of defensive linemen this season. We also graduated our kicker, but Tyson Giles has been working hard this offseason and is a top-rated kicker for the state of Georgia as a sophomore. Top-ranked snapper Colby Cox will be snapping the ball to him, so the kicking game should continue to be strong.
Head Coach James Teter
Head Coach Brent Budde
River Ridge Knights Head Coach Tyler Winn
Spring practice is about getting down to the basics and making sure everyone is on the same page. We’ve got a group of hardworking upperclassmen who are helping to set the standards for the program. As we look toward the summer and the fall season, we are looking for leadership from some of our returning starters: Chico Ward (senior), Chase Tomlinson (senior) and Kofi Reeves-Miller (junior). We’re especially excited about the addition of new offensive coordinator Cecil Phillips, who joins the Knights after serving the past 10 years as the head coach of Amherst County High School in Virginia. AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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YOUR SCHOOL NEWS Knox Celebrates Its Teacher of the Year The Knox Elementary School Teacher of the Year, first-grade teacher Nicole Waldrep, and other school-level winners will compete this fall for Cherokee County school district’s 2019 Teacher of the Year. The districtwide competition is judged by a panel of community leaders, and the Cherokee County winner advances to the Georgia Teacher of the Year competition.
Kim Brown, left, art teacher at Sequoyah High, with Franky Carroll.
Artwork Earns Awards Franky Carroll, a junior at Sequoyah High School, was named a district winner in the 24th annual Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) High School Art Contest. Carroll received $100 for being the top winner from the GFB first district, which consists of 15 counties in northwest Georgia. She is the daughter of Sharon Ramey. Cherokee County Farm Bureau (CCFB) awarded Carroll a $125 Walmart gift card for being the first-place winner at Sequoyah High School and the first-place winner in the CCFB art contest. Her artwork will be featured on the front of the CCFB Safety Camp T-shirts and the cover of the CCFB annual meeting program.
Top Navy JROTC Award Goes to Local Student Cadet Lt. Cmdr. Anna Fournaris, a rising Woodstock High School senior who serves as the commanding student officer for the school’s Navy JROTC program, was recognized with the Wells-Pratt Award from the Navy League of the United States Atlanta Metropolitan Council. Cadets from 45 metro Atlanta Navy and Marine JROTC programs were considered for the Wells-Pratt Award, which is named for three former NJROTC Cadets who died during military service. The award included a trophy and $1,500 Cadet Lt. Commander scholarship. Anna Fournaris 58
AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Principal Tammy Sandell, left, with Waldrep and her family.
4H and FFA Graduating Seniors Honored Senior members of the county school district’s 4H and Future Farmers of America recently were recognized by the Cherokee County Farm Bureau. Each student was presented with a certificate and a pen engraved with his or her name. The students had the opportunity to speak about their future plans.
Front row, from left: Ansley Crane, Brooke Brannon, Alyssa Ramsey, Catherine Dunson, Yulissa Jimenez, Casandra Ruiz and Hunter Williams; back row: Casey Millsaps, Kevin Jones, Lukas Freeman, Karina Ballesteros, Brooke Tapp, Paige Laudun and Madeline Smetana.
Governor’s Honors Participants Selected Local students from the Cherokee County school district have been selected for the Georgia Governor’s Honors program. The competitive four-week summer instructional program, held at Berry College, is for rising high school juniors and seniors. The program is designed to provide students with the academic, cultural and social enrichment “necessary to become the next generation of global critical thinkers, innovators and leaders.” Students live and study on the campus in Rome, Ga., from June 17 to July 14. Students apply for a specific area of study and are screened and interviewed locally and at the state level as part of the selection process. Students selected from local area high schools, with their subject of study, include: The cast included, from left: Wheeler Mann of Sequoyah High as the Cowardly Lion, Lucas Freeman of Creekview High as the Scarecrow, Tessa Thornton of Cherokee High as Dorothy, and Zane Durham of Sequoyah High as the Tin Woodman, with furry friend Zoey Tate as Toto!
Theater Group Visits the Wizard The Cherokee County School District’s Academy Street Theater Group recently presented “The Wizard of Oz” at Cherokee High School. The drama program is open to all school district students and is directed by teacher Reed Christian. The group presents several shows each school year.
Cherokee High School
Jacqueline Johnson, communicative arts
Creekview High School
Adam Morrison, theater; Riley Ortega, music; Nathanael Seman, music
Sequoyah High School
Brae Davies, mathematics; Olivia Goss, communicative arts; Marko Petrovic, world languages
Woodstock High School
Ella Elbeck, science; Zakwan Khan, social studies; Eliza Ndow, social studies
Sixes Student Council Supports Summer Lunch Program Sixes Elementary School’s Student Council organized a collection drive to benefit the MUST Ministries Summer Lunch Program. Students donated lunch supplies, as well as books for the children served by the program, and they also decorated lunch bags.
Katherine Relick, left, with Linda Lopos, chairperson of Chapter BI’s STAR Scholarship Committee.
Local Graduate Awarded Scholarship Katherine Relick, a graduate of Woodstock High School, was the recipient of the the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship. Relick is the daughter of Matt and Christine Relick of Canton, and plans to attend Notre Dame University this fall, where she will begin her studies in neuroscience and behavior. The STAR Scholarship is given by P.E.O. International, and is based on excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics and potential for future success.
Pictured back row, from left: Andrew Shewfelt, Lily Conkell and Keelin Murray; front row Addison Chapman, Alayna Cobb, Hayden Hill, Angelica Persichetti and Caden Valdes display some of the decorated lunch bags and barrels of donations. AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Beta Club Helps Local Children
Back row, from left: club co-sponsor and school counselor Brenda Hall, Cherokee County DFCS Director Brooke Ford, club co-sponsor and teacher Pam Mills Gorges and Principal Tammy Sandell; club members: Peter Allen, Ruby Arthur, Ava Baldwin, Kendal Bondie, Amelia Buhl, Kiersten Connell, Grace Craig, Lillian Esposito, Hudson Evans, Lily Garmon, Samantha Geer, Kennedy Glenn, Addy Hale, Kate Hamilton, Elijah Key, Marissa Klein, Emma Knight, Ellie Mathews, Emma Miller, Emily Mondich, Dylan Palhegyi, Alex Perales, Lucia Peterson, Karsyn Pieper, Alee Ray, Rylan Richardson, Jurgen Sagers, Lorelei Sheldon, Logan Smith, Jalyn Stacy, Matthew Taylor, Allison Whyte and Reid Worley.
This past school year, members of the Knox Elementary School Beta Club collected items to help children served by Cherokee County Division of Family and Children Services. The students packed individual boxes with toiletries, socks and a stuffed toy, so they would be ready for caseworkers to distribute to children as needed.
Power in Unity
Cherokee By Choice
spiritual and racial issues within the community. Where there is unity, there is power to change. We have been actively working with local businesses and organizations in Cherokee to build positive relations and improving quality of life. Many churches have shared the vision and are actively involved in bringing more diversity to our community,” Saunders said. In 2017, members of C4 began to worship together on the fifth Sunday of each quarter. A combined worship team and rotating preachers lead the services. The ecumenical effort has launched sharing ministries in the county, including food and toy distribution, a shared build for Habitat for Humanity, and the Power in Unity worship event. In a world where we are constantly barraged with divisive thoughts and actions, it will be exciting to be a part of the Power in Unity celebration! For more information, contact Pastor Fred Goodwin at fred@churchofthemessiah.net.
solutions through programs such as the Creative Problem-Solvers meet-up, monthly Lunch Circuit, and 1 Million Cups Cherokee. After all, many of life’s greatest breakthroughs often come over a warm cup of coffee, or lunch with friends. While these programs – and many others – are moving Cherokee forward, there is still more work to be done. Whether you’re part of Cherokee’s highly skilled workforce, an entrepreneur, a local industry leader or a resident, you have a powerful role to play in Cherokee’s next wave of growth. Tell us why you chose to live or work in Cherokee County, using the hashtag #CherokeeByChoice. Cherokee By Choice is more than a catchy tagline – it’s a movement that resonates locally and inspires globally. So, take your seat at the table and tell us why you chose to make Cherokee home. Economic growth and development is a communitywide effort. Thank you to all of the public and private partners who graciously invested their time and financial resources to support Cherokee By Choice. More information about the campaign and a full list of investors can be found at www.cherokeega.org/campaign.
continued from page 40
Managing Money Well continued from page 28
Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA / SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge is not affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or services of Peter Montoya, Inc. or MarketingPro, Inc. This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor 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. Citation. 1 - newscenter.td.com/us/en/campaigns/love-and-money [1/2/18]
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
continued from page 54
Hey Canton,
Because of you, she will be fed this summer.
You Can Join!
LIVE WORK WORSHIP PLAY
And so will thousands of other children.
When you give to support Summer Lunch and the extensive feeding programs of MUST Ministries, you are helping hungry children receive the food they so desperately need.
Easy ways to give 1. Write a check and mail to address below 2. Donate online at www.mustministries.org. You can sign up to be a monthly donor, too! Become a MUST Valuable Partner (MVP)! 3. Donate on our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/mustministries
Your generous contribution will help us serve 7,000 children a day in seven counties: Bartow • Cherokee • Cobb • Douglas Fulton • Gwinnett • Pickens
For more information: PO Box 1717 • Marietta, GA 30061 770.427.9862 • mustministries.org Like us on facebook · Follow us on twitter © 2018 MUST Ministries. All rights reserved.
The Downtown Buzz is held at the Chambers at City Center (8534 Main Street) on the last Friday of the month and begins at 8 a.m. unless otherwise noted.
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Meeting: July 27 Guest: Chief Calvin Moss, Woodstock Police Dept. For more information on the Downtown Buzz program or to suggest a topic for consideration, please contact Mitzi at 770-592-6056 mainstreetwoodstock.org/connect/#buzz Business, individual and non-profit memberships are available
Canton 140 Riverstone Pkwy.
Towne Lake 3048 Eagle Drive
Learn More At: www.CUofGA.org | 678-486-1111
#DoYouCU AROUND CANTON | July 2018
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com
July 2018
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AROUND CANTON | July 2018
Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.CUofGA.org
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LGE Community Credit Union Back cover 770-424-0600, www.LGEccu.org (Cosmetic, Family, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics and Pediatric) Canton Dental Town 770-622-1515 www.dentaltownsmiles.com
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HOME & GARDEN
Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
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EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION
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Dynamic Clean Team 404-414-7743
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
CREDIT UNION
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CLEANING SERVICES
ATTORNEYS Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
Towne Lake Family Chiropractic 770-592-1877 www.townelakechiro.com
Mission Academy 404-444-0249 www.MissionAcademyGA,com
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Inside front
Sundance Pressure and Seal 21 O: 770-720-2303, C: 404-771-0071 www.sundancepressureandseal.com PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Cherokee Internal Medicine 678-238-0301 www.cherokeeim.com
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Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists 37 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 21 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 41
770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com Northside Cherokee Pediatrics Holly Springs: 678-388-5485 Towne Lake: 770-852-7720 northsidecherokeepediatrics.com
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Plastic Surgery Center of the South 36 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net WellStar & Mayo Clinic 770-956-7827 www.wellstar.org/mayo
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PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Fornuto 770-846-3848 www.bethfornuto.com
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J. King Images 404-384-2794, 404-200-0881 www.jkingimages.com
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RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT Basements & Backyards 678-726-8777 www.BasementsandBackyards.com
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Downtown Canton Farmers Market www.cantonga.gov
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Elm St. Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
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Hobgood Baseball ww.HobgoodParkBaseball.com
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RETAILERS/ SHOPPING
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES Magnolia Cottages by the Sea www.magnoliadreamcottage.com
Serenity 12 770-592-2404 www.TreetopResidential.com
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Flag Company, The 21 770-974-0507 www.FlagoleWarehouse.com/cashandcarry SENIOR LIVING Arbor at BridgeMill, The 770-637-0572 www.ArborBridgeMill.com Manor Lake BridgeMill 678-990-5055 www.ManorLakeBR.com
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