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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Contents
48 & 49 On the Cover Oaks at Towne Lake Photo by J. King Images
July 2019
14
26
Features
In Every Issue
14 It’s Camp Meeting Time!
4 8 12 24 28 30 38 46 70 72 80 86 88 90 92 94
Holbrook’s 181-year tradition continues with plans for a 10-day outdoor revival.
20 What’s Sizzling?
Mouth-water recipes for the grill will keep that sizzle going.
26 It’s a Wrap
Cherokee’s first international film festival judged a huge success, sets the stage for future events.
36 Page-Turners
Suggestions for summer reading from, who else? Your local librarians!
Around Towne Community News Celebrations Towne Lake Dining Guide Rob’s Rescues Community Calendar Library Events Everyday Angels Downtown Woodstock Dining Guide Greenprints Trail Map School News Recent Home Sales Cherokee Photography Club Clubs & Organizations Church Listings Directory of Advertisers
Advertising Patty Ponder, ALM President 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com www.townelaker.com TowneLakerMagazine
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
@Townelaker
townelakermagazine
Contributors 50 40 66 42 79 18 43 61 20 47 74 68 32 67 44 73 52 26
Don Akridge Nathan Brandon Danny Branom Michael Caldwell Ansley Cartwright Cherokee Office of Economic Development Dr. Britton Crigler Greg Fonzeno Tiffany Hughes Harry Johnston Bryce Jones Rev. Elizabeth Milford Josh Nelson Bill Ratliff Susan Schulz Justin Spainhour-Roth Elisabeth Stubbs Laine Wood
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770-575-8800 www.ChloesAutoRepair.com 6422 Bells Ferry Rd #100 Woodstock, GA 30189
FREE OIL CHANGE Buy one Oil Change, get a second one of equal or lesser value free.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Around Towne Letter From the Editor July is a time of celebrating — most notably, with fireworks on July 4. Yet, we celebrate year-round at Aroundabout Local Media. Each month, we dedicate several pages to students and their accomplishments, in and out of the classroom. One to two pages are filled with photos of our neighbors celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. Each time I think of celebrating a birthday, I’m reminded of last year, when I forgot my mother’s age. As her only child, I should know better. I’m the one who has filled out a million medical forms for her over the years. Was she actually born in 1923 and I’m right (y’all, don’t bet on that one), or was she really only 94? Last October, as we were celebrating my mother-in-law’s birthday, someone asked me how old my Mom would be on her next birthday. I quickly answered, 96. My mother-in-law, who is blessed with a great memory, looked at me oddly and said, “She’ll be 95. Wasn’t she born in 1924?” I stammered and stuttered and realized … she’s right. I was wrong. I have a good explanation that should keep my name off the bad daughter list. Over the years, as Mom’s dementia surfaced and worsened, I kept justifying it to myself: Well, she’s almost 83; she’s almost 88; she’s almost 92. I gave her an extra year along the way. It was so hard to see her struggle, that I kept aging her to have it make sense to me, if that makes any sense to you. But, that’s my story, and I’m sticking with it. Since then, I use the calculator on my phone before answering age questions — even my own. Yes, on Jan. 10, 2020, Mom will be 96! On Sept. 11, 2019, I will be 29! Again. Amazing how my calculator knows that. In the spirit of celebrating, this month’s issue is packed with news of hard-earned accomplishments and exciting beginnings. • On Page 18, you’ll learn about entrepreneurs who have followed their dreams, and how the COED is supporting them. • On Page 26, one of the Etowah Film Festival founders shares her delight in the success of her dream event. • Beginning on Page 74, you can relate to grads and their moms as they share the joys and apprehensions of taking those next steps. Let us know how we can celebrate you! Happy Fourth, y’all!
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of TowneLaker. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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Welcome! Michael Huffstetler
recently was named parks and recreation director for the city of Woodstock. He most recently served as superintendent of parks and recreation services for Marietta. Welcome to Woodstock!
What's New KPOP BBQ and Bar is open at SouthPointe at Towne Lake shopping center in Suite 1334, between Georgia Floors and Johnny’s Pizza.
What’s Coming A Jersey Mike’s will be opening July 17 at 2045 Towne Lake Parkway, Suite 110, according to franchise owner Bryan Walther.
What’s Changed The transition from Connect Coffee to Connect Live at 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock, is complete. The venue offers coffee, pastries, live entertainment, and open mic and jam nights. Al Bums II will be open in front of the coffee shop, offering vinyl records and band merchandise. They’re on Facebook at Connect Live Venue.
Who’s Moved North Georgia Audiology and Hearing Aid Center has moved to 280 Heritage Walk,
Suite 300, Woodstock. 770-726-8948. https://yourhearinglink.com.
Christine’s Creations has moved to 8838 Main St., Woodstock. A grand reopening was held June 14. 770-591-5944. www.christinesofwoodstock.com. West & Peach has plans to open mid-June at The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta in Unit A120. The clothing store stems from a West Coast style, with a twist of Southern charm and boho apparel.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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COMMUNITY BOARD The TowneLaker Community Board consists of well-respected community leaders from different walks of life. Our board members assist us in many ways, including contributing to our magazine and providing valuable feedback.
Kurt Johnson, co-founder of the Kurt and Sheila real estate team, has been involved in real estate most of his adult life. He and his wife have lived in Cherokee County for more than 13 years, their three children have attended county schools since the oldest started first grade at Bascomb Elementary. Kurt and Sheila work hard to promote Cherokee County and all it has to offer. Ann Litrel is an artist and writer whose nationally
published work includes decorative art, paintings for private and corporate collections, and writing and illustration for a range of publications. Ann lives in Towne Lake with her husband and coauthor Dr. Mike Litrel and their two sons. Ann can be reached at Ann@annlitrel.com.
Scott Coleman is the owner of Coleman Home
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Jackie Loudin 770-615-3318 Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Art Director Michelle McCulloch 770-615-3307 Michelle@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Katherine Amick 678-279-5502 Katherine@AroundaboutMagazines.com Page Designer Laura Latchford Laura@AroundaboutMagazines.com Controller Denise Griffin 770-615-3315 Denise@AroundaboutMagazines.com Market Support Associate Christie Deese Christie@AroundaboutMagazines.com Copy Editors Bill King, Eliza Somers
Services, a residential construction firm based in Towne Lake. He and his wife Lisa have three grown children and have lived in Towne Lake for 23 years. Scott and Lisa are supporters of the local special needs community. Scott enjoys the outdoors, cooking and his annual fishing trip to Alaska.
Bettie Sleeth has lived in Towne Lake for more than 12 years, and helped start the Kiwanis Club in Cherokee County. She's been active in service leadership programs in Cherokee County schools, helping bring Key Clubs to Etowah, Sequoyah and Creekview high schools and a Circle K club at Reinhardt University. She's active at her church, Hillside United Methodist, and serves in many community service projects and activities. Lynne Saunders is the founder and executive director of Papa’s Pantry and The Master’s Training Center. Her employment classes are based on a book she wrote, “21st Century Keys to Employment.” Lynne has been married to Bill for 33 years and has three grown daughters and five grandchildren. Anthony Hughes, raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, has been a special education teacher since 2001. He teaches at E.T. Booth Middle School and moved to Woodstock in 2015 with his wife Jessica and sons Jacob and Gavin. They are excited to be a part of the Towne Lake community. Depending on the season, they spend a lot of time at any of the area’s sport fields or enjoying Lake Allatoona. 6
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
TowneLaker, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s goal is to build a sense of community and pride in the Towne Lake and surrounding area by providing its residents with positive stories and timely information. It distributes a total of 16,400 free copies. Approximately 15,600 are direct mailed to homes and businesses and an additional 800 are placed in racks around the community. It also has 2,000+ digital viewers of the magazine online each month. TowneLaker welcomes your comments, stories, and advertisements. Editorial deadline is the 1st and advertising deadline is the 5th of the previous month. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year. Send check or money order to the address below. The viewpoints of the advertisers, columnists and submissions are not necessarily those of the Editor/ Publisher and the Publisher makes no claims as to the validity of any charitable organizations mentioned. TowneLaker is not responsible for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2019. TowneLaker 1025 Rose Creek Drive, PMB 380, Suite 620 Woodstock, GA 30189 For Advertising: Patty Ponder, 770-615-3322 Website: www.townelaker.com Volume 24, Issue 3
America’s Community Magazine
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Local News Stand Up for Stand Down The eighth annual Stand Up for Stand Down toiletry drive for Georgia’s homeless veterans takes place July 5-Sept. 6. The drive is sponsored by the Georgia District Pilot International Clubs and Georgia Cancer Specialists, affiliated with Northside Hospital Cancer Institute. Collections of much-needed toiletry and personal care items are used to fill comfort bags for veterans who attend Stand Down events in North and Central Georgia. 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. Visit www.gacancer.com for drop-off locations. For more information or to volunteer, call 770-864-5347 or visit www.facebook.com/SU4SD. Jim Lindenmayer speaks at the service. Left, James Ellis attended Woodstock High.
Community Rallies to Show Respect for Fallen Vet A plaque will be dedicated in his honor. A procession traveled 14 miles, from Woodstock’s Poole Funeral Home to the Georgia National Cemetery, on his behalf. Jim Lindenmayer, director of the Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program (CCHVP), and members of the American Legion jumped in to help. All of this effort, compassion and care was given to make sure former Woodstock resident and homeless Army veteran James Ellis received a proper burial. Ellis, 37, was a Woodstock High School sophomore when he lost his parents. He joined the Army after high school, and became an Apache attack helicopter mechanic. Ellis fell into homelessness after leaving the service. Retired Marine Master Sgt. Ralph Roeger, owner of Semper Fi Bar and Grille, came into contact with Ellis when he asked for a meal at Semper Fi. Roeger then called Lindenmayer, to help get Ellis off the street and into CCHVP. Ellis was placed in a local hotel for two weeks while he was processed through the Veterans Administration for any medical or disability claims. After the two weeks, CCHVP volunteers were looking for longer-term housing options for Ellis, and contacted Dan Valentine, marketing director for Veterans Empowerment Organization (VEO), which is a larger homeless veterans shelter in Atlanta. After about a year at VEO, Ellis eventually returned to a homeless lifestyle, and died earlier this year. The plaque in memory of Ellis will become a part of the Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Monument later this summer, Lindenmayer said. Donations to offset the costs are welcome, and can be mailed to Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program, c/o American Legion Post 45, 160 McClure St., Canton, GA 30115. The program is a 501c19 nonprofit. 8
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Happy 103rd, Miss Aileen! Aileen Hambright Cantrell, a resident of Oaks of Towne Lake, celebrated her 103rd birthday on June 9, with a party including family and friends. She was born on a farm in South Carolina, where she spent a happy childhood with her seven brothers and sisters, two of whom have lived 101 years. When asked the secret to her long life, she replied: ”Genes, good food, a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and being a Christian.” Her reply when asked what advice she would give others: “Do the right thing, be kind, and don’t hurt anybody.”
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Local News Since THE Woodstock is Cancelled... Atlanta’s Rock Station 100.5 has announced a new event: Rockstock in Woodstock is set for Aug. 17 at the Northside Cherokee Amphitheater and The Park at City Center. The festival will feature: tribute bands paying homage to the original Woodstock artists; a Kidz Zone with a jump house; food trucks; sponsor booths; pop up shops, and beer, wine and spirit service throughout the day. For more details, visit www.freshtix.com/ events/rockstock-in-woodstock.
Mayors’ Challenge Continues through July The 8th annual Mayors’ Recycling Challenge is in full swing until the end of the month, when winners will be announced by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Going Green Committee. The initiative’s goal is to create awareness surrounding community recycling, while spurring a little friendly competition among the cities involved. Awards up for grabs include most recycling per capita, and most improved city, based on 2018 collection totals. For more information on the green initiatives, or to download a recycling guide, please visit www.CherokeeChamber.com or call 770-345-0400. Children receive new backpacks filled with all the supplies they need to start the school year.
Give a Kid a Chance Gears Up Leaders of the nonprofit are preparing for the 14th annual Give a Kid a Chance — Cherokee event, set for July 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at First Baptist Canton and Hillside United Methodist. Donations of new backpacks and school supplies, as well as volunteers for the day, are needed. Since the inaugural year, the nonprofit has helped more than 35,000 children in need in the county prepare for the first day of school. Children who have pre-registered are given new backpacks filled with supplies and new socks and underwear, a chance to choose a first day outfit from a collection of like-new clothes, and a haircut. Vision, hearing and dental screenings are available; children can choose a new book and stuffed animal; and families are treated to a hot lunch. Email gakac.nginn@gmail.com or visit www.giveakidachance.org for more details. Also on Facebook. 10
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Helping Kids Not Miss a Meal Cherokee County School District (CCSD) has rolled out a new delivery vehicle — a decommissioned school bus — for the USDA Seamless Summer option, which gives free meals to children during the summer. The meals are available to students 18 years of age or younger; the program runs through July 19, Mondays-Fridays, with no meal service July 1-5. All meals must be consumed on-site. Details at www.cherokeek12.net/schoolnutrition.
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Celebrations!
Gabriella Bellini
Morgan
Happy 10th birthday, Bella! You are sweet, smart and beautiful. We love you. Brando, Abuela, Mommy and Daddy.
Veer Lamda
You make each year brighter and continue to illuminate our lives with your smile and kind heart. Wishing you all the success in life. Lots of love, Dadi, Dada, Saanvi, Mummy and Papa.
Happy graduation! Love always, Mom, Dad, Grace, Macy and James.
Amy Collins
Age 10 on July 23 Happy 10th birthday, Amy! We are so proud of you and we love you very much! Love, Daddy, Mommy, Emily and Tommy.
Happy birthday and happy graduation, Grace! Love always, Mom, Dad, Moe, Macy and James.
Cayden Darby
Amelia Hope Wolfe
Happy 10th birthday to our amazing, loving, athletic, smart, hard-working, goofy Bubby! We are so proud of you! Love, Dad, Mom and MyMy.
May 25th Happy 8th birthday, Amelia! We love you! Mom, Mr. Nils, Anna and Andrew.
Sydney
Happy birthday Bryce!
Happy birthday!
Savannah age 8 on June 29, Owen age 13 on June 22, Isaac age 10 on May 9. We love you all! Mommy and Daddy.
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! E-mail to: Jackie@AroundaboutMagazines.com August deadline is July 10. Please specify TowneLaker. 12
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Sweet Sixteen! Happy 16th birthday to Sydney on July 3rd! We are so proud of you and love you ((THIS MUCH))! Love, Dad, Mom, Jordyn and Bryce.
Age 11 on July 22 You have a big heart to match your big personality. We love you BIG time! Dad, Mom, Sydney and Jordyn.
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Camp Meetings in North Georgia Holbrook
It’s Camp Meeting Time!
2415 Holbrook Campground Road, has an Alpharetta address, but is located in Cherokee County. July 12-21. With guest ministers Danny Bennett from Brookwood Baptist in Forsyth County and Glenn Hannigan from Ebenezer United Methodist Church Milton. Song leader will be retired Baptist pastor Newt Hendrix. Daily worship is held at 11 a.m., and 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. www.holbrookcampmeeting.com.
Cherokee's 181-year tradition is thriving.
Marietta
A step back in time is an accurate description of camp meeting, a Southern tradition that brings families together for more than a week of uninterrupted fellowship and meaningful worship. Folks yearning for that simpler life can experience it July 12-21, when the faithful ignore the heat and make the pilgrimage to Holbrook Campground for a 10-day outdoor revival. The campground is an oasis of green space in north Cherokee, east of Canton and 1 mile south of busy Ga. 20, toward Cumming. More accurately, it is a 40acre, heavily shaded link to the past. It’s a tradition that’s repeated at historic sites, some 200 years old, across North Georgia this time of year. Camp meetings have played an important role in the history of Methodism. In the early church, there was typically only one preacher, known as a circuit rider, to serve various congregations. For many years at camp meeting, the preacher's only compensation was board for himself and his horse. Collections were not taken. Cherokee County’s Holbrook Campground was founded in 1839. Just across the street from Macedonia United Methodist Church, there is an open-air arbor on a wooded lot where visiting pastors deliver nightly sermons. The arbor is surrounded by a circle of 75 cabins, known as “tents,” 14
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ranging from small buildings with sawdust floors and no bathrooms to air-conditioned cottages with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Children ride their bikes or swing on tire swings on the property while the adults, often several generations of families, relax in rockers and porch swings after home-cooked meals. Holbrook got its start when Jesse Holbrook, a blacksmith, received 40 acres of land in exchange for shodding a man’s horse. He donated the property to the Methodist Conference to be used as a campground, and the first services were held in the open under the trees. The first arbor built was too small, and a second one that took its place was damaged in a storm in 1889. The current structure was built in 1890. Camp meetings were traditionally a time of repentance, revival and reconnecting with God and neighbors. Generations later, worshippers no longer tie their cows to horse-drawn wagons to make the journey to camp meeting. In many cases, the campgrounds are surrounded by upscale neighborhoods and pricey retail centers. And, most camp meetings have their own websites. Virtually everything surrounding these campgrounds has changed dramatically since their inception. But, the message, and the purpose for gathering, remains the same.
2301 Roswell Road, Marietta, across from East Cobb United Methodist. July 12-21, in its 182nd year. Preachers for the daily services are Dr. Charles Sineath, Rev. Tom Tanner, Rev. Mike Mozley, Dr. Vic Bledsoe, Rev. Ben Cathey, Rev. Justin Holcomb, Rev. Tom Atkins and Rev. Jim Higgins. Ice cream social at 9:30 p.m. July 16. www.mariettacampmeeting.org.
Salem
3940 Salem Road, Covington, was founded in 1828. This year’s camp meeting dates are July 1219. Featuring guest speakers, Rev. Bill Britt and Rev. Carlos Sibley. www.salemcampmeeting.org.
Lumpkin
105 Lumpkin Campground Road, Dawsonville. Established in 1830, this year’s camp meeting dates are July 22-28. Pastor’s names weren’t announced at press time. www.lumpkincampground.org.
Pine Log
Part of Pine Log United Methodist Church at 3497 Pine Log Road, Rydal. Celebrating its 185th year with services July 23-29. Pastor’s names were not announced at press time. www.pinelogumc.com.
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The Lantern Series Violet Blue, June 1 Elm Street Event Green, www.elmstreetarts.org.
Photo courtesy of Angela Rice.
Photo courtesy of Bronson Kurtz.
Photo courtesy of Bronson Kurtz. 16
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Photo courtesy of Angela Rice.
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COED Launches First Mentorship Program PROVIDED BY CHEROKEE OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Our team at the Cherokee Office of Economic Development (COED) recently launched our newest entrepreneurship initiative, the North Atlanta Venture Mentoring Service (NAV). Headquartered in Cherokee County, NAV is the first program of its kind in Georgia. It was made possible through the Cherokee By Choice initiative, a five-year results-driven public/private partnership aimed at reinforcing Cherokee’s role as a leader in economic development. NAV is trained by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Venture Mentoring Service (VMS), and is based on the proven concept of teambased mentoring. We recognized the value that a collaborative mentorship program could provide to Cherokee County after conducting a strategic plan and building an entrepreneurial ecosystem. After years of research, and several visits with MIT sister programs, it was clear the VMS mentorship approach would give local entrepreneurs the greatest chance at success. VMS has a proven 20-year track record operating its internal program, and has shared its mentoring model to organizations in 23 countries. NAV is the 90th sister program. “We wanted to grow Cherokee County entrepreneurs, but didn’t want to limit our reach to the county borders. Diversity and inclusion matter to us, which is why we are selecting 20 mentors with a wide range of experience and seven ventures for our pilot,” COED President Misti Martin said. NAV mentors are seasoned entrepreneurs and executives who come ready to learn, listen and guide. NAV ventures recognize their need for mentorship, are coachable, and are ready to develop themselves and their businesses. Connecting entrepreneurs to a team of mentors within a formally structured program is a valuable way to guide them on their journey toward success. In a real train-the-trainer style, NAV will build on the local mentor community in Cherokee and North 18
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Leticia and Harry Hutchins of Alma Coffee look forward to the guidance of seasoned entrepreneurs. Photo courtesy of Clay Goswick Photography.
Atlanta, to offer the best and brightest minds to local entrepreneurs. The pilot program will launch with seven teams that meet monthly. Throughout the duration of the program, we will continue receiving applications for mentors and ventures that want to get involved in this program. “Entrepreneurs play a vital role in our economy and the local community,” NeoMed Inc. President Aaron Ingram said. “I believe in the power of mentorship to help guide startups. When COED asked me to be a part of their innovative team-based mentorship program, I was happy to give back to a worthwhile initiative that is connected to such a prestigious institution, with a reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship.” This program is a catalyst for building strong entrepreneurial ecosystems across the country, including cities such as Asheville and Greenville. Thanks to strong leadership and strategic vision, we knew that making this ecosystem sustainable would require committed mentors who believe in giving back to
the future generation of entrepreneurs. The impact of NAV will be measured through job creation, revenue growth and community involvement. For us, the goal is much bigger than building successful companies; it’s about fostering stronger entrepreneurs. Alma Coffee, which recently opened its first cafe in The Circuit Woodstock, will be one of the seven ventures in the pilot. “The coffee industry is growing, but has a long way to go. We are doing our best to push the industry forward; getting a fresh perspective from people outside the industry will help us with new ideas. We are both young in our venture and having the guidance of seasoned mentors will help steer our ship in the right direction,” according to a statement from Harry and Leticia Hutchins, co-founders of Alma Coffee. Through active support of entrepreneurs, NAV contributes to entrepreneurship education and catalyzes innovation while working to make Cherokee County the No. 1 place in the state to start a business.
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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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Hughes Rib Rub Ingredients • 2 tbs. Chili powder • 2 tbs. ground red pepper • 2 tbs. garlic powder • 2 tbs. Hungarian paprika • 2 tbs. lime zest • 3 tbs. onion powder • 2 cups brown sugar • Salt and pepper to taste
Directions Whisk seasonings together in a medium bowl, then add the brown sugar, a little at a time. Sprinkle salt and pepper last (no more than 2 tsp. each). Store seasoning in an airtight jar. Makes approximately 3 cups (enough to cover one rack of ribs). NOTE: The flavor of the ingredients will strengthen the longer the rub sits, so be sure to taste before adding to meat.
Pecan Cobbler Ingredients • 2 cups chopped pecans • ½ cup brown sugar • 6 tbs. butter, divided • 2 cups pancake mix • 2 cups white sugar • 2 cups milk • Dash of salt
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place pecans in a small skillet over medium heat, and add the brown sugar and 2 tbs. butter. Cook just until sugar and butter have melted. Pour pecan mixture into bottom of 9x13 pan coated with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together pancake mix, white sugar and milk. Add a dash of salt. Whisk until no lumps remain, then pour over the pecan mixture. Cut remaining 4 tbs. butter into small pieces and dollop across the top of the batter. Bake 30-40 minutes, or until the top is set and no liquid bubbles up on the sides. Serve warm with ice cream and grilled fruit, or serve cold with whipped cream.
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Grillin’ and Chillin’ BY TIFFANY HUGHES
Summer is the time to fire up the grill, and July 4th is the perfect time to get started.
Ribs
Dry-seasoning combinations save prep time, so keep them on hand for both meats and veggies. To make delectable baby-back ribs, pat ribs dry and coat both sides with rib rub. Place in the smoker for at least 6 hours. Enhance the flavor of the meat by putting coffee in the water pan. The sugar in the rib rub will melt and make a crunchy caramelized coating.
Steak
Pat it dry and coat both sides with an even mixture of salt and pepper, making sure to rub into the meat. This tenderizes the meat as it cooks. Place the steak on a grill set on high, immediately reduce the heat to medium. Cook approximately 10 minutes on one side, turning only once, then cook 5 minutes on the other side. Adjust cooking times based on how you like your steak. Preheating the grill to high helps steak sear on the outside without overcooking.
Chicken
Sprinkle chicken pieces (breasts, drumsticks, wings, etc.) with salt and pepper, then toss in a bowl with your favorite marinade. An easy one is to whisk together a combination of 1 cup orange juice, ½ cup honey and a tablespoon of Dijon. Spray your grill grates before adding the chicken, to prevent sticking, then baste the chicken during cooking to keep it from drying out. Do not baste the chicken with the same marinade used on the raw chicken, so save some for basting.
Shrimp
Shrimp can be threaded on a skewer, but if you put vegetables on the same skewer, give the vegetables a head start. Also, if using wooden skewers, soak them in water at least 30 minutes before using, to prevent burning. There’s no need to baste the shrimp while cooking. Instead, have a combination of melted butter, whole garlic cloves and lime juice ready as a dipping sauce when done.
Fish Fillets
Whole fish fillets do well on the grill, but you need a cast iron pan to cook them in, or the fish might fall apart. Coat the pan with a little butter, then sprinkle the bottom of the pan with your favorite seafood seasoning. Add the fish fillets and baste with additional butter, a drizzle of lemon or lime juice, and seasonings. Cook until the fish is almost done before turning. Don’t turn more than once, or the fish may fall apart.
’
Mouth-watering dishes inspired by the Fourth of July.
Strawberry Pineapple Salsa Ingredients
Veggies
• 1 cup diced fresh strawberries • 1 ½ cups diced fresh pineapple • 2 Roma tomatoes, peeled and diced • 1 sweet onion, diced • 1 jalapeno pepper, minced (Remove seeds if heat isn’t your thing!) • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro • 1 tbs. lime juice, or more to taste • Dash of salt
Corn on the cob can be prepped ahead of time, and placed on the top rack of the grill while the meat cooks on the lower rack. Coat the cob on all sides with mayo, sprinkle your favorite corn seasoning on it (salt, seafood seasoning, chili lime seasoning, etc.), then loosely wrap in foil. Thick slices of eggplant can be cooked directly on the racks. Serve with balsamic vinegar. Bell peppers are great when cooked on the grill — the char on the outside makes them even sweeter.
Fresh Fruit
Slice peaches or plums in half lengthwise, remove the pits, then lay cut-side-down on the grill. If your grill is preheated, the fruit will caramelize in 1-2 minutes. As soon as it is removed from heat, place the cut side in brown sugar, then flip over and put back on the grill just long enough for the sugar to melt. Serve warm with ice cream. Fresh pineapple should be cut thickly, and then placed in a grill pan coated with cooking spray. Cook on both sides until golden brown. Pineapple will caramelize while cooking, without any additional sugar. It is a great way to dress up angel food cake or pound cake, and also is very good on pecan cobbler.
Directions In a large bowl, combine strawberries and pineapple, then stir in tomatoes and onion. Add jalapeno, and stir well to combine. Finish with the fresh cilantro, lime juice and salt. Store in fridge until ready to serve. NOTE This is fantastic over salad greens, in fish or shrimp tacos, served over grilled chicken, or as an appetizer with tortilla chips.
Snacks and Drinks
You’ll want your guests to have ample snacks and drinks while waiting. Add ginger ale and fruit juice to iced tea, which can be served to the kids while your favorite adult beverage can be added for older guests. Snack foods, such as pineapple strawberry salsa, pretzel bites, or even a fresh veggie platter with salad dressing as a dip, are good choices for snacking. Grilling doesn’t need to be fancy, but it definitely gives your family, and guests, a new flavor profile for foods normally cooked indoors. So, dust off the apron and barbecue tongs, and show off your grilling skills for everyone in honor of Independence Day. Happy cooking!
Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and is volunteer coordinator/scheduler for the Booth Western Art Museum. She enjoys spending time with her family and furbabies. You can contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.
Pretzel Bites Ingredients • 2 cups self-rising flour • 1 ¼ cups Greek yogurt • 1 cup warm water • 1 ½ tbs. baking soda • 1 tbs. sea salt, or more to taste • 2 tbs. butter, melted
Directions Mix together the flour and yogurt, making sure there’s enough flour in the mixture so that the dough isn’t too wet to handle. In a small bowl, stir baking soda into water until dissolved. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough into hands and roll slightly, then dip into soda water. Place on a greased cookie sheet, then press a few pieces of sea salt on top of each bite. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until the outside of the pretzels are shiny. Remove from oven and immediately brush with melted butter.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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WDSTK Summer Concert Series Better Than Ezra, June 8 Northside Cherokee Amphitheater, Woodstock www.woodstockconcertseries.com
Storm clouds threaten the “rain or shine” event. Photos courtesy of Bronson Kurtz
Lead vocalist and guitar player, Kevin Griffin, helped form the band in 1988. 22
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Woodstock’s Summer Concert Series is a favorite community activity.
Drummer Michael Jerome smiles at the crowd.
The rain held off, making the fans happy.
Better Than Ezra played fan favorites and also introduced new songs.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Towne Lake Dining Cancun Mexican Grill
Mexican 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #200 770-693-4680 cancunmexicangrill.net
Cheeseburger Bobby’s American 2295 Towne Lake Parkway 678-494-3200 cheeseburgerbobbys.com
China Fun
Chinese 1075 Buckhead Crossing 770-926-2671 chinafunwoodstock.com
Donovan’s Irish Cobbler American Irish 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-693-8763 donovansirishcobbler.com
El Ranchero
Mexican 1025 Rose Creek Drive 770-516-6616 elranchero8.com
Family Tradition
Homestyle Cooking 4379 Towne Lake Parkway 770-852-2885 familytradition.net
GAMEDAY Fresh Grill American/Burgers 2990 Eagle Drive 770-693-6754 gamedayfresh.com
Izumi Asian Bistro
Thai/Sushi/Chinese 2035 Towne Lake Parkway 678-238-1899 iloveizumi.com
JD’s Bar-B-Que
Barbeque 6557 Bells Ferry Road 678-445-7730 jdsbbq.com
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Jersey’s Sports Bar
American 6426 Bells Ferry Road, #160 770-790-5740 jerseysgrille.com
Johnny’s Pizza Pizza/Pasta/ Salad 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-9494 johnnyspizza.com
Kani House
Japanese Steak/Sushi 2455 Towne Lake Parkway, #110 770-592-5264 kanihouse.com
Keegan's Irish Pub
Irish/Pub 1085 Buckhead Crossing, #140 770-627-4393 keegansirishpub.net
La Parrilla
Mexican 1065 Buckhead Crossing 770-928-3606 laparrilla.com
LongHorn
Steakhouse 1420 Towne Lake Parkway 770-924-5494 longhornsteakhouse.com
Maple Street Biscuit Co. Southern 2295 Towne Lake Parkway, #160 678-903-2161 maplestreetbiscuits.com
Mellow Mushroom
Pizza/Pasta 2370 Towne Lake Parkway 770-591-3331 mellowmushroom.com
NY Style Deli & Pizza Pizza/Subs/ Bakery 2340 Towne Lake Parkway 678-426-7004 pizzabymansi.com
Panera Bread
Bakery/Soups/Sandwiches 2625 Towne Lake Parkway 678-813-4809 panerabread.com
Peking & Tokyo
Chinese/Japanese 200 Parkbrooke Drive, #160 770-591-8858 pekingandtokyoga.com
Song’s Garden
Chinese 4451 Towne Lake Parkway, #320 770-928-8387 songsgarden.com
Tavern at Towne Lake American 1003 Towne Lake Hills East 770-592-9969 tavernattownelake.com
The Place
Bar/Grill 1105 Parkside Lane 770-928-8901 theplacebargrill.com
Tuscany
Italian 250 Cinema View Drive 678-453-0888 mytuscanyrestaurant.com
Volcano Steak & Sushi Asian 2990 Eagle Drive, #100, 101 678-498-7888 volcanowoodstock.com
WOW Pho & Grill
Vietnamese 6242 Bells Ferry Road, #118 678-383-6099 On Facebook at: Wow Pho & Grill
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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A panel discussion on Indie Film Distribution & Disruption 2019 at Oak Leaf Church included, from left: Chris Helton, Stephen Beehler, Naomi McDougal Jones, Matt Pope and Hudson Phillips. Photos courtesy of Bill Cornelius and Gary Mullet.
First-Year Film Fest Rousing BY LAINE KIRBY WOOD ETOWAH FILM FESTIVAL CO-FOUNDER
The Etowah Film Festival inaugural year was a resounding success. The event was well received by filmmakers, actors and audience, from the Thursday night screening of local high school and college films, to the Sunday morning brunch at Reformation Brewery to the awards ceremony Sunday night.
Brent Lambert-Zaffino and I worked more than a year to bring this international film festival to the Canton Theatre and are already planning for next year. Yeah, we are going to do this again. Brent brought his expertise from the filmmaker’s side and I brought my tourism marketing and event planning skills to create the most unlikely of partnerships that appeared to work seamlessly. We had a couple hiccups but it was the first time for each of us to take on anything of this magnitude. We learned a lot this first year. Brent and I met about a year ago through his parents after I mentioned to them that I was seriously interested in starting a film festival for Canton. His parents told me that Brent, too, was interested in starting a film festival and the rest, as they say, is history. A four-day event such as a film festival has an inordinate amount of moving parts; there are volunteers to schedule, sponsorships to acquire, visitors to house, awards to create, genres to select, films to screen and judge, judges and screeners to line up, venues to secure for panel discussions, brunch, and after parties. And merchandise to purchase, printing, marketing, you know, logistics, logistics, logistics. Left, Bill and Ashley Carter, who moved to Canton recently, volunteered all weekend and received keys to the city from Mayor Gene Hobgood.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Each attendee got a swag bag: more than 100 for student films Thursday to 125 on Sunday.
Attending an event at Reformation Brewery are, from left: Brent Lambert-Zaffino, Kady McWhirter, Naomi Catt, Troy Lambert-Zaffino, Matthew Ferrans and Niki McCarthy.
Success All this was accomplished by our hard work, hundreds of texts, phone calls, emails and attention to detail. We had the privilege of getting phenomenal support from the City of Canton, an outpouring of positive response from the local business community providing sponsorships, the willingness of filmmakers to submit their films and attend a first-year festival, and the volunteers … what can I say other than thank you, thank you and thank you some more! The dates for 2020 are May 28-31 and film submissions are open on the website - www. EtowahFilmFestival.com. If you’re a filmmaker, including aspiring high school or college filmmakers, submit your films for consideration. A very special mention goes out to Kristin Gauthier, the new manager of the Canton Theatre. She made popcorn for four days straight and never once set off the fire alarm! That was a very real possibility and we guarantee we would have! Right, co-founders Laine Wood and Brent LambertZaffino say they’ll host another festival.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Rob’s Rescues Why should we help wildlife? This cat’s name is BeeBee. He is 1 year old. He is a cream color with orange gold stripes on his tail. He got his name because he got shot by a BB gun and spent days in a tree. He is a very playful cat, and if he could be put into a house with a smaller, younger cat, that would be great for him.
In everyday life we see raccoons, deer, opossums and foxes. We aren’t paying attention and they die by getting hit by cars, or eating poison or something that is bad for them. Every species of organisms has an important role on the Earth. Raccoons help by maintaining healthy populations and distributing seeds. Coyotes are important because they keep deer, rodent and rabbit populations down. Opossums benefit ecosystems because they eat ticks, rats, mice and cockroaches, which is really helpful. They are also scavengers so they clean up road-kill. Foxes protect gardens from pests that can cause damage like insects, rodents and rabbits. Deer are very important because they are predators and prey. They are called a keystone species because their feeding activity can directly and indirectly affect many plants and animals in an ecosystem. These animals are all important to the ecosystem whether as a predator, prey, decomposer or a scavenger. People are at the top of the ecosystem, so we must protect the ecosystem. That is why we should help wildlife. So, how do we help wildlife? If you see injured wildlife, Bells Ferry Veterinary Hospital is a good place to go. You can call the hospital at 770-926-5311. There is also an app called Animal Help Now. I also have some information on my website. www.robsrescues.com. - Rob Macmillan
Next month
This dog’s name is Opal. She is 4 years old and has a shepherdlooking face, but an Australian shepherd-sized body. She was a stray, and was found in a dog trap with almost no hair on her body. Her hair is growing back and it is super soft. She is afraid of cars and can be scared easily. She will be a great size for a family. She is 45 pounds.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Rob will be interviewing Project Chimps (projectchimps. org). This is a sanctuary in North Georgia for chimpanzees previously used in research. Until July 19, there will be a Rob’s Rescues collection bin in the Starbucks on Sixes/Ridge Road to collect items for Project Chimps. Some of what they need are: newspapers, magazines, 5-gallon water bottles, empty tissue boxes, paper towel tubes, pinecones, Disney or nature DVDs, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves).
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. Follow Rob at www.robsrescues.com and on Facebook @robsrescues.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Around & About Night at Cherokee County Aquatic 12 Teen Center for ages 13-19. Drop-off starts at 5:30
JULY
5 Canton Main Street First Friday event, 6-9 p.m.,
Members Only is the band set to perform at the
downtown Canton. Includes food vendors, a car show and live music. www.cantonga.gov.
Friday Night Live in Woodstock, 5-8 p.m. Shops stay open late, with live music and events scattered throughout the city. www.visitwoodstockga.com. on the Mountain” by Gaslight 5-7 “Smoke Players, will be presented at the Canton
Historic Theatre. The 2019-20 season has been announced, and will include: “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling; “Greetings!” by Tom Dudrick;, “The Fantasticks,” book and lyrics by Tom Jones; and “Last Night in Ballyhoo” by Alfred Uhry. www.cherokeetheatre.org.
p.m. and pickup ends at 10 p.m. Pool play, pizza dinner, crafts, games and a movie. Ratio of kids to counselors is 10-1. Please send clothes to change into after the pool. Cost is $10 per person. Call 678-880-4760 for questions.
The singer-songwriter series at The Listening 13 Room at The Oak House, 151 E. Marietta St. in
Canton, features He Sang She Sang, Angie Lynn Carter, Stephen Reynolds, Ethan Senger, The Simple Beats. 6-9 p.m. Check Facebook for updates.
Canton River Rock 2019 presents A1A, a 20 Jimmy Buffet tribute show, at 6 p.m. at the
Etowah River Park Amphitheatre. The family-friendly event is free. The Kentucky Headhunters will perform on Aug. 17. www.cantonga.gov.
Park, with a playground nearby and concessions available. The July feature is “Small Foot,” a PG film that starts at 8:45 p.m. Bring chairs and blankets. http://georgiamoviesinthepark.com/canton.
The eighth annual Bend Your Knees 5K begins at 8 a.m. at Canton First Baptist Church, One Mission Point. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit, which has a mission of spreading awareness of brain tumors and supporting families dealing with the illness. Register at www.active.com. www.bendyourknees.org.
Benefit Concert for a Queen will be held 12 6-9 p.m. at Connect Live, 6835 Victory Drive,
Saving, a workshop on saving seeds 27 Seed from the garden for future planting, will begin
6
Movies in the Park are held at Canton’s Brown
Woodstock. Proceeds will help Allisan Feinberg attend the National Miss Amazing 2019 pageant, a nonprofit organization for girls and women with special needs. Allisan is the 2019 Georgia Miss Amazing representative. For details, visit www.prekindle.com/event/64496benefit-concert-for-a-queen-acworth.
4
at 10:30 a.m. at Hickory Flat Library, 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton. Seeds also can be shared at the Seed Libraries at Hickory Flat, Rose Creek and Ball Ground libraries. To register, visit cherokeemastergardenersinc. wildapricot.org, email uge1057@uga.edu, or call 770-721 7803.
th of
BALL GROUND
JULY EVENTS
June 29: The city’s fireworks display will begin at 9:45 p.m. June 29. Prior to the fireworks, the Fly Betty Band will perform in City Park at 7 p.m.
ALLATOONA YACHT CLUB
July 3: Fireworks Extravaganza begins at 9:30 p.m.
CANTON
July 4: Riverstone Shopping Center, 6-10 p.m. Entertainment and fireworks display at Riverstone Shopping Center, with live music by The Rupert’s Orchestra. Fireworks begin at dusk. Stay tuned for parade details at www.cantonga.gov. 30
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
WOODSTOCK
July 4: The daylong July 4th Spectacular begins
at 7:15 a.m. with the 22nd annual Woodstock Freedom Run (registration details at www. woodstockfreedomrun.com). A parade begins at 10
a.m. at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road and travels down Main Street to end at Sam’s Club. A festival, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., begins at The Park at City Center after the parade, and includes food, live music, children’s games, inflatables, arts and crafts, Adam the Juggler and vendors until 3 p.m. Fireworks begin at dusk behind the Target shopping center at Highway 92 and I-575.
DOWNTOWN WDSTK AUGUST Etowah Eagles Golf Classic begins with a 9 shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. at Towne Lake Hills Golf Club. Proceeds benefit the high school’s basketball program. etowaheaglesbasketball@gmail.com.
and Your Constitution is a 14 Christianity DVD-based, 11-week class offered at First
Baptist Woodstock. Meets at 6:15 p.m. The class is free, no registration requirement. An optional book can be purchased for $10. Call 770-591-2508 for classroom location. www.fbcw.org.
Cherokee Gala is 6-10 p.m. 22 Empower Suite Six Venue, 147 Reinhardt College
Parkway in Canton. The organization helps individuals with disabilities strive for more relationships through employment, volunteering, social activities and skill development. Contact Candace Walker for ticket/ sponsorship purchase. www.empowercherokee.org. Candace.Walker@empowercherokee.org.
Summer Concert Series
7:30 p.m. Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater www.woodstockconcertseries.com
July 13: The BB King Blues Band featuring Michael Lee
Aug. 10: Little River Band Sept. 14: The Molly Ringwalds
(World’s Greatest ’80s Experience)
Movies in the Park
Held at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater. No charge. Bring chairs, blankets and bug spray. georgiamoviesinthepark.com/woodstock
July 20: “Captain Marvel” (PG-13) 8:55 p.m.
Lantern Series
This concert series takes place on the Elm Street Cultural Arts Center’s Event Green, 113 Elm St., with shows beginning at 7:30 p.m. Details at www.elmstreetarts.org/lantern-series.
July 27: House of Waters, World, Senegal
SEPTEMBER Off Fore VAC is a golf tournament to 16 Tee support Cherokee County’s Volunteer Aging
Council, which provides assistance to low income senior citizens and elderly veterans. Registration is 9 a.m., with tee off at 11 a.m. at The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm. Contact Gina Pendley at 706-273-9933 or De Gale at 678-230-4067.
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Beth Moore will be teaching 8:30 a.m.-
3:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church Woodstock, worship with Travis Cottrell. www.lifeway.com/ LivingProof. Registration is available for leadership training, with YouLead on Sept. 27 (www.lifeway.com/ youlead). 800-254-2022.
OCTOBER
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The date for the sixth annual Zombie Fest has been announced, and the location will be revealed soon. Put this fundraiser for Cherokee FOCUS on your calendar and watch for details. www.georgiazombiefest.com. www.cherokeefocus.org.
Aug. 17: The Lone Bellow, alt indie country, Nashville Sept. 7: Soulsha, funk-inspired, Boston Oct. 5: Gina Furtado Project, bluegrass
Roots Music Nights 7-9 p.m. at Elm Street Event Green. wdstk.ga/roots.
July 18: Pony League Aug. 15: Reverend Hylton
Elm Street Theater www.elmstreetarts.org
Through July 7: “The Complete History of America (Abridged).” 600 years of history in 6,000
seconds … history will never be the same! FridaySaturday shows at 7:30 p.m., Sunday shows at 2:30 p.m. Rated PG-13.
July 10-24: “The Wizard of Oz.” Wednesday shows at 10 a.m., Friday (and July 20) at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday (and July 13) shows at 2:30 p.m. Opening night reception immediately following July 12 show. Rated PG.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Safe Places to Store Legal Documents BY JOSHUA NELSON
Families often are surprised by how easy it is to create a foundational legal plan to protect their estate. However, even the best legal plan doesn’t do much good if no one knows where it is. Often, your will has important information about how you want to handle your estate once you pass. This usually includes information about planning your funeral. In most cases, the will isn’t read until after the funeral, because loved ones didn’t even know where to find the will. It is surprising how many families don’t find an estate plan, or don’t find one until it’s too late. So, where should you store your estate plan?
1.
Home Safe
A fireproof or other type of home safe can be sufficient to protect your important paperwork in most situations, but verify what protection it provides. Some fireproof safes are not water tight or have very short burn protection times. Additionally, this manner of storage has the potential to be tampered with by theft, intentional destruction by a jealous heir, or even fraud after your passing.
2.
The Cloud
Under Georgia laws that cover directives and powers of attorney, you can use copies of the documents if the document expresses (clearly written out) that authority. This allows for a well-drafted document to be saved as an electronic document, and stored in the cloud, or saved on a loved one’s phone. This way, if something happens, they can act quickly, without having to go home and get a physical copy.
Wherever you choose to store your estate plan for safekeeping, inform key family members and friends that you have a plan. You don’t need to share what it says, but, in case you get sick or pass, let those who will help administer it know where to find it.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
3.
Safe
Deposit Box
For many people, the go-to place is in a safe deposit box at the local bank. While banks are a place of safety, they also can be hard to access, and often require a court to grant access, if the original owner cannot access it and didn’t properly grant successor authority. If this is your choice, make sure to set up authorization with the bank for someone else to access the box in the event you cannot.
4.
Lawyer's Office
A lawyer’s office has the potential of being one of the worst possible places to store your will. Many people don’t realize that, when their attorney offers to safeguard the original, it often is a tactic to require your loved ones to come to them for the probate process when you pass away. This can result in more fees and hassle for your loved ones, which is what you were trying to avoid by planning ahead.
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.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Marietta Highway, Canton 770-345-0400 • www.cherokeechamber.com Cherokee Chamber of Commerce 3605
July 17
CPR/AED Training
9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the terrace level of the chamber office. As part of the Cherokee County Chamber's Community Outreach Programs, a CPR/AED class will be taught by a representative of Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services. Must be 14 years old to be certified. $45.
July 18
CPR/AED & First Aid Training
9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the terrace level of the chamber office. Lunch provided. Taught by Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services personnel. Must be 14 years old to be certified. $70.
July 23
Power Hour
10-11 a.m. Fast-paced networking with fellow business and chamber leaders. At the chamber’s board room.
Aug. 1
Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast
The chamber’s breakfast meetings offer current and future members the chance to conduct business and network with more than 200 fellow business leaders. At the county’s conference center at 1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton. Sponsor is Darby Funeral Home.
The team representing the G. Cecil Pruett Community Center Family YMCA took first place at the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce annual golf tournament.
Aug. 6
Aug. 28
4-7 p.m. at Woodstock City Church, 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock. SchmoozaPalooza is designed to bring businesses together in a 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. Presented by Cobb EMC, Georgia Power and Synovus.
This one-day conference, set for 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., will feature four speakers, who will share thought-provoking information to be used on the job and in life. Cost includes continental breakfast, lunch and two networking breaks. The location is the Falany Performing Arts Center, Reinhardt University, 7300 Reinhardt Circle, Waleska. Sponsored by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia Power, Sold by Julianne – Keller Williams Atlanta North, State Farm Insurance Jey Willis Agency. Presented by Reinhardt University.
SchmoozaPalooza, A Business Networking Party
Leadership Symposium
UP TO
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Woodstock-Towne Lake Canton 145 Towne Lake Pkwy Suite 201
(770) 592-5554
SmileDoctors.com
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
205 Waleska Rd Suite 1-A
(770) 345-4155
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Lakhvir Singh, O.D. Comprehensive Optometry
Woodstock
149 Towne Lake Pkwy., Suite 102 - Woodstock, GA 30188
770.928.4544
www.thomaseye.com TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Grab a Book!
Check out these summer reading suggestions from our friends at the Sequoyah Regional Library System
Adults
Popular titles right now include “The Library Book” by Susan Orlean, “The Radium Girls” by Kate Moore, and “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens. Those who prefer magazines can use their library card to access the Flipster app, which offers digital issues of popular titles like Southern Living, National Geographic, Wired and more.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Want to get some reading done during the summer? Whether you’re trying to stay active while school’s out or simply looking to relax, there’s something for all ages at the library. We’ve compiled a short list of recommendations for each age group to get you started. Remember, Sequoyah Regional Library System also offers titles in large print, eBook, and audiobook.
Teens
Popular titles include the Georgia Peach Book Award for Teen Readers nominees and winners (www.georgiapeachaward.org), including, “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas, “Scythe” by Neil Shusterman, and “Wonder Woman: Warbringer” by Leigh Bardugo. Audio lovers, check out SYNC (audiobooksync.com), a free summer program for teens that makes two popular audiobooks available on the OverDrive app for free.
Children
Star Wars and Avengers are always popular, as are series like Dog Man (Dog Man: The Epic Collection: From the Creator of Captain Underpants), Lumberjanes, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. We also offer titles from the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl, TOME Society and Georgia Children’s Book Awards. And of course, our Summer Reading Program is A Universe of Stories, so we’ve got dozens of space-themed books.
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770-928-6525
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
37
@ the Library
Sequoyah Regional Library System • www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org
WOODSTOCK 7735 Main St., Woodstock 770-926-5859
July 1
Space Slime at 10:30 a.m. Learn how to make space slime. Materials are provided. For ages 6 and older.
July 11
Zoo Atlanta Mobile: Beastly Basics
at 2 p.m. Presented by Zoo Atlanta’s ZooMobile project, explore animal characteristics, learn how animals meet their basic needs, and learn how they care for their young. Call to sign up.
July 12
Juggling With Adam Boehmer at
Rose Creek Public Library staff members Amy and Ripley show off the library’s Summer Reading Program activity logs, available for adults, teens and children.
ROSE CREEK 4476 Towne Lake Parkway Woodstock • 770-591-1491
July 9
Space Jam Dance Party at 10:30 a.m. Dance along with the Etowah High School color guard. For all ages.
July 15
Summer Reading Finale: Under the Dome at 11 a.m. Celebrate the
end of summer with carnival-style games, balloons and a whole lot of fun. Experience the planetarium show “Under the Dome,” presented by Operation Teach. For all ages.
July 18
Green Space Gardening at 12:15 p.m. Learn about good horticultural
practices and how to select the best site for your plants. Make your yard the greenest space in the neighborhood. This program is sponsored by the UGA Extension Office in Cherokee County.
July 22
Cyberspace Internet Safety at 3 p.m. Hate technology and anything to do with computers? Learn basic internet browsing techniques, so you don’t get lost in cyberspace. Learn about some of the library’s technology resources, with a Q&A session at the end.
July 24
Space Sensory Walk at 10:30 a.m. Complete an indoor sensory walk for an out-of-this-world experience. For ages 6 and younger. 38
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
11 a.m. Witness the amazing talents of Adam Boehmer as he wows with his highly entertaining and engaging juggling expertise.
July 15
Apollo 11 Anniversary Celebration
at 4 p.m. Join in for a live webcast to celebrate the 50th anniversary of NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon-landing mission. Hosted by the American Museum of Natural History, experience a guided re-creation of the Apollo 11 voyage, the space-flight that landed the first two astronauts on the moon. For all ages.
July 18
Summer Reading Finale: Water Blast-Off Party at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy refreshments from Kona Ice and celebrate the end of summer. A towel and a change of clothes are recommended. For all ages.
July 28
Project Pinterest at 3 p.m. Explore Pinterest-inspired creative projects. This month’s project is solar system bracelets. For ages 16 and older. Call to sign up.
July 30
Teen Ice Cream Bar at 4 p.m. Cool down with some ice cream, and create your own sweet treat; materials are provided. For teens in grades 6-12.
If you’re happy and you know it,
HICKORY FLAT 2740 E. Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-7565
tell your friends and family!
July 1
Drop-In VR: Explore the Stars at 4 p.m. Explore outer space using virtual reality headsets. For all ages.
July 8
The Amazing Space at 6:30 p.m. Families compete to
complete the most space-related activities and win the grand prize. For all ages.
July 12
Refer a New Member to Credit Union of Georgia and You’ll Both Earn
July 16
$
Juggling with Adam Boehmer at 2 p.m. Witness the amazing talents of Adam Boehmer, as he wows with his highly entertaining and engaging juggling expertise. Summer Reading Finale: Jeffini’s Reading Blast-Off Magic Show at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a magic and puppet show
50!
with Jeffini the Great, as he leads you on a musical reading adventure. For all ages.
*
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www.CUofGA.org/Refer Visit us in Canton 140 Riverstone Parkway, Canton
www.CUofGA.org | 678-486-1111 *For new members only. New members must be at least 18 years of age or older to qualify for the referral program. Referral incentives will be paid to both the referrer and the referee when a primary savings account has been open and funded with at least $10 for 30 days. Referrer must be at least 18 years of age or older and have an account in good standing to be eligible for the referral program. Program is subject to change without notice. Membership is subject to approval. Some restrictions may apply.
Branch Manager Laurie makes a new friend at the Hickory Flat Public Library during a visit from the Little Red Barn mobile petting zoo. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Transportation Options for Senior Citizens BY NATHAN BRANDON
One of the most difficult aspects of aging is the loss of independence. When driving is no longer feasible, senior adults in Cherokee County must look for ways to buy groceries, make doctors’ appointments and attend social events. Usually, the first option is to rely on family and friends. This can quickly become a burden on family relationships and friendships. So, one must ask, “What are the transportation options where I live?” I learned about an unexpected option while waiting for an exercise class to begin. I saw one of the seniors get out of the backseat of a car, and the driver exit the parking lot. I asked him who his driver was. “He’s my Uber driver!” the gentleman said. I was surprised at his response because he is in his late 80s, and I underestimated his technical knowledge. He explained, “My son doesn’t want me driving anymore, so he told me he would pay for my Uber transportation. See this app on my phone? I just type in where I want to go and wait for the driver to arrive. From Woodstock to Canton doesn’t cost very much, and my son would rather pay for me to ride than worry about me driving.” This is one example of how families can easily solve the issue of no longer wanting their loved one to drive. Most seniors have smartphones, and the app is one of the simplest to use. After this experience, I downloaded the app and have since used Uber a number of times.
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Another option is through the office of Cherokee County Senior Services. CATS (Cherokee Area Transit System) operates five days a week to provide transportation for all county residents. Rides are provided to many popular destinations such as: • Northside Cherokee Hospital • Major shopping areas • Nursing homes • Employment sites • Medical facilities in Woodstock and Canton Reservations must be made in advance. Dates book up quickly, so call early to schedule transportation. Fares vary based on mileage. The cost is $1.50 per trip for the first 5 miles and an additional 30 cents per mile over 5 miles. Limited service is available for adults with disabilities. For information, call 770-345-6238 or visit www.cherokeega.com. There also is the Volunteer Driver Program at Senior Services. Screened volunteers assist seniors with transportation to critical appointments, grocery shopping, errands, etc. Currently, there is a waiting list. Call 770-345-1224 for information.
Nathan has been a resident of Cherokee County since 1982. He retired from Cherokee County Senior Services, and remains involved in community organizations that focus on senior adults.
The office of
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• The difference.
"We are one of the few practices that is still owned by the physician, and not by a hospital," Dr. Skardasis said. Why is this important? Dr. Skardasis treats all of his patients like they are one of his family members, rather than a number. He takes the time to get to know each patient and, as one negative reviewer wrote, ask you 99 questions. A doctor who asks a lot of questions is the doctor you want to see, instead of one who is in and out in 5 minutes. Dr. Skardasis wants to be known as the doctor who takes you off medication. He is focused on creating health, rather than treating sick people.
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Where is Georgia’s Money Going this Year? BY STATE REP. MICHAEL CALDWELL
The General Assembly of Georgia completed its legislative session April 2. There is only one constitutional requirement that our Legislature is to complete, before we finish our annual session − the passage of the upcoming fiscal year’s budget for the state. That doesn’t mean it’s the only thing that we’ll do, but there is no question that it is our most important function. Our Legislature spends tens of billions of our hard-earned money every year, and, as your representative in this process, I take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to report that our state remains among the lowest per-capita spending states in the Union, and that, by the numbers, our spending priorities appear to be in order. I’m a firm believer that you can see where someone’s priorities lie by examining their checkbook. The same principle applies to government. As this year’s budget (Fiscal Year 2020) started on July 1, it seems an appropriate time to re-examine the numbers together. This will cover a high-level breakdown of Georgia’s FY 2020 (July 1, 2019-June 30, 2020) budget. 1. Dept. of Education
38.5%
$10.6 billion
2. Dept. of Community Health
13.1%
$3.6 billion
3. Board of Regents, University System
9.5%
$2.6 billion
7%
$1.9 billion
4.5%
$1.2 billion
4. Dept. of Transportation 5. Bond Payments
These first five line items comprise 72.5% of the state budget, at a total of $19.93 billion.
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6. Dept. of Corrections
4.5%
$1.2 billion
7. Dept. of Behavioral Health
4.5%
$1.2 billion
8. Student Finance Commission
4%
$1 billion
9. Dept. of Human Services
3%
$825 million
10. Dept. of Early Care and Learning
1.6%
$440 million
11. Technical College System
1.3%
$372 million
12. Dept. of Juvenile Justice
1.3%
$350 million
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These next seven allocations comprise an additional 20% of the state budget, at $5.4 billion, and totaled with the first five encompass 92.3% of Georgia’s budget. These 12 line items constitute $25.3 billion in state spending. Remaining 38 agencies
7.7%
$2.13 billion
You read that correctly. Our state’s budget is generally spread over 50 allocations: five of which consume almost 73% of total spending, 12 of which comprise 92%+ of total spending, with the remaining 38 agencies utilizing only 7.7% of Georgia’s expenses. By percentage, this is nearly identical to the previous fiscal year, 2019. Now, we’ve seen the check stubs. What do they tell us about our state’s priorities? As I look over Georgia’s 12 largest expenses, I see four major categories.
1.
We spend more than $15 billion dollars on education, including K-12, pre-K, higher education, student finance and the technical college system. This constitutionally stated “primary obligation” is covered by more than 55% of our state budget, and, for the second time, our General Assembly fully funded our QBE (Quality Basic Education) funding formula this year, and granted the largest single teacher pay increase in Georgia history.
2. 3. 4.
After education, the state spends nearly $5 billion on health care-related obligations, at 18% of total spending.
Third in line for spending priorities from the state is transportation. This totals 7% of the budget, at more than $1.9 billion. Finally, the fourth priority in the lion’s share of Georgia’s budget finishes with spending on public safety. This priority takes up nearly $1.5 billion, or 6% of the total budget. If you have any concerns about Georgia’s budget, or any other issue, feel free to reach out to me at Michael@ CaldwellForHouse.com or on my cellphone at 678523-8570. You also can join me at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings for our Weekly Coffee With District 20 at Copper Coin Coffee in downtown Woodstock. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the opportunity to represent our families in our General Assembly.
Michael Caldwell is the state representative District 20, which includes Towne Lake and Woodstock. He can be reached at 678-523-8570 or email him at Michael.Caldwell@house.ga.gov.
Summer Health Pretend You’re Pregnant! BY BRITTON CRIGLER, MD, FACOG
My first pregnant patient of the day came in clutching an 800-calorie, orange Slurpie. As an obstetrician, who sees expectant mothers every day, I can tell you that not every pregnant woman is a model of health. I’ve seen women who eat fast-food french fries every day, women who have never exercised, and women who smoke or drink, despite knowing the risks. And yet, I have also seen that almost every one of these women will make an effort to change, not for her sake, but for the sake of her unborn baby. I wonder, “Why will we do things for a baby that we won’t do for ourselves? Is each of us not worth the same effort and love?” These are the summer health tips I give to my pregnant patients. Surprisingly, the advice isn’t all that different from the health advice we should all follow.
Pregnancy Tips That Work For Everyone Use the pool.
Or the beach, or the lake, or wherever you find yourself this summer. One of the best perks about being pregnant in the summertime is being able to take a load off in the water. Swimming is also great exercise!
Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water during your pregnancy is important for any time of the year, but it’s especially important during the summer.
Try a mocktail.
A cold beer or fruity alcoholic drink may be a no-no during pregnancy, but you can join the fun with a fruit mocktail. There are tons of delicious recipes on Pinterest.
Use that SPF.
Protect your skin during pregnancy by wearing a high SPF sunscreen, and make sure you apply it liberally throughout the day, especially if you’re in the water or prone to sweating. Wear a widebrimmed hat to provide extra protection for your face and neck – or possibly your belly, too!
Stay cool.
During pregnancy, your body temperature is already higher than normal. Pay attention to the heat index (how hot the temperature feels due to the combination of heat and humidity), and, for days in the 90s, stay indoors as much as possible with your air conditioning turned on. This summer, I propose you follow the same health tips for yourself that you might for an unborn baby or loved one. After all, aren’t you worthy of love and care, too? Pregnant – or not!
Dr. Britton Crigler is a board certified OB-GYN at Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, and has been voted “Mom-Approved” OB in Atlanta Parent magazine.
The 2019
Etowah Eagles Golf Classic SAVE THE DATE
FRIDAY, AUG 9 TOWNE LAKE HILLS GOLF CLUB 1:30 PM SHOTGUN Benefitting the Etowah High School Basketball Program
To register a foursome or to be a sponsor, email: etowaheaglesbasketball@gmail.com TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Distinguished Young Women Program for High School Girls Boosts Self Confidence BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
Coco Chanel said, “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” Distinguished Young Women (DYW) is an organization that empowers young girls to be their best selves. “Our hope is to inspire 11th-grade girls to develop their full potential through our free programs,” said Linda Greco, state chairman and Cherokee County resident. “The life skills the girls gain are invaluable and carry them way beyond college years. Our outstanding programs provide the participants with the tools they need to succeed in today’s world. I would love for more girls to benefit from what we have to offer.” DYW was founded in 1958 in Mobile, Alabama, and is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. Originally known as America’s Junior Miss, the program’s mission is to encourage young women to reach their full potential while boosting confidence to chase dreams. The organization involves more than learning self-confidence; more than $1 billion in scholarships were available to graduating seniors in 2018, and more than 770,000 women have gone through the program since 1958.
“I would tell any girl considering participating in Distinguished Young Women to think no further, and sign up right away,” said Savannah Stanley, Distinguished Young Woman of Georgia, class of 2019. Stanley just graduated from high school as class valedictorian, and competed in the national competition in Alabama in June. “My experience with DYW has given me access to a world of opportunities ranging from scholarships, to further pursue my education, to valuable connections and exposure to networking,” Stanley said. “Whether you already feel confident in all aspects of the program, or would be stepping outside of your comfort zone, there is so much for you to gain from DYW.” During the program, each girl attends Life Skills Workshops to prepare for life after high school. Topics include interviews, public speaking, and Be Your Best Self, which is the official outreach of the DYW. Participants are encouraged to be balanced in five areas: • Being Healthy • Being Involved • Being Studious • Being Ambitious • Being Responsible
Savannah Stanley, third from left, was honored with an Invite Resolution and recognized on the floor of the State House of Representatives. Stanley is with, from left: Rep. Rick Jasperse (District 11 and Education Committee Chairman), Linda Greco and Rep. Mitchell Scoggins (District 14). 44
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Each program culminates in an on-stage showcase at the state level and then on to the national level. This year’s state final to choose the Distinguished Young Woman of Georgia class of 2020 will be held at the
Left, Each state representative receives a silver medallion along with cash scholarships. Top, Rep. Michael Caldwell greets the DYW Class of 2019. Front row, from left: Maggie Nguyen (Leesburg), Emily Johnson (Laurens County), Elizabeth Dutch (Distinguished Young Woman of Georgia 2018), Bhavya Gupta (Lee County), Morgan Brown (Monroe County) and Hannah Harper (Thomaston). Second row: Savannah Stanley (Gordon County), Hope Falin (Upson County), Karlie Bridges (Early County), Edna Rutland (Bibb County), Tiana Clarke (Henry County) and Mary Grace Moore (Houston County). Third row: Kennedy Eltz (Coweta County), Cassie Stancil (Dublin), Grace Weeks (Bartow County) and Annie Twibell (Chatham County).
Marietta Performing Arts Center July 19-20. Elizabeth Dutch, past DYW of Georgia 2018 wrote in her message to the class of 2019: “I will continue supporting and volunteering with this program to ensure that other girls have the same opportunities because I have seen how it enriches the lives of young women across the nation.� Registration for this free program happens during the fall of junior year. If you have a special rising junior girl in your life, who you know would benefit, she can apply online: http://distinguishedyw.org/apply-now. For more information, contact Greco at 770-827-7998 or Georgia@ DistinguishedYW.org. Distinguished Young Women is a 501(c)3 organization. All donations are tax deductible. http://GA.DistinguishedYW.org.
Susan Schulz is a wife, mom, writer and mentor who lives and plays along the Etowah River in Canton. She loves serving at Woodstock City Church. Connect with her at www.susanbrowningschulz.com.
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EVERYDAY
It began with news of a devastating recurrence of cancer and a need much bigger than us. Everyone wants to help, but no one really knows how, or where to begin. Seldom does conversation develop into a firestorm of compassion, creativity and action. This is what happened when Allison “Allie” Chambers, wife of Jonathan, community manager of entrepreneurship for the Cherokee Office of Economic Development, learned that her breast cancer had returned aggressively. Three years prior, in the summer of 2016, the young wife and mom of two beautiful girls — Gracie, 11, and Natalie, 8 — was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, sending this young family into a whirlwind of emotions and challenges while depleting most of their personal savings. Now, after three years in the clear, getting back on their feet and the surprise birth of their third daughter — Maggie, 1 —- Allie’s scans revealed that her breast cancer had returned and aggressively spread to her pelvis, spine and lungs. Her cancer is now stage 4. Aggressive cancer requires quick treatment. Without a lot of time to waste, Allie is remaining with her original oncologist, who recommends an integrative approach to treatment that combines the best of conventional medicine, such as chemotherapy and other drug treatments, with more alternative natural remedies, like IV vitamin C, a plant-based diet, supplements, and more. It is customized to the person and their individual body and type of cancer they are fighting. This type of treatment typically is not covered by insurance, and comes with a high price tag of $75,000. After a hysterectomy is performed, Allie hopes to begin fighting her new battle from every angle, using a cocktail approach of oncology. Both Jonathan and Allie remain 46
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Jonathan and Allie with daughters Grace, Natalie and Maggie.
hopeful that God will provide all their needs for treatment costs and healing, and fully trust their integrative oncologist. Jonathan’s friends, co-workers and local community members quickly recognized that, as a busy young husband and father of three daughters, Jonathan would need help. Immediately, hundreds of messages flew around the county via text, email, social media and in person, asking, “How can we help?” From there, Cherokee Gives A ______ was formed as a community of people from Cherokee County that share a common compassionate purpose in support of the Chambers family. In three fast weeks, Woodstock, Canton, Waleska, Holly Springs and Ball Ground have collaborated, and are organizing fundraising events within their areas in support of the Chambers family. Local businesses have reached out to ask what they can do, or to share their creative ideas, services and offerings. The response has been incredible to witness. "When we moved here in the summer of 2016, and walked through our first journey with cancer, we had no community to support us. Everything was new: new city, new job, new friends, new culture,” Jonathan said. “After only three
years of living in Cherokee, and digging our roots deep fast, we never could have imagined the support and love this community would give so sacrificially. It has been overwhelming for our family, and beautiful to watch. This is what real community looks like. And, we are honored and humbled to be part of this Cherokee community, and proud to call it what it feels like: home." Everyday Angels knows the hearts of this compassionate community well. We are excited to share with our readers ways in which you can participate and follow Cherokee Gives a ______. We are excited to follow up with this growing group of people who simply want to help, as well as follow Allie’s new cancer journey. We are encouraged and inspired by the love and generosity of so many, so fast. Meanwhile, please pray for the Chambers family as they face the challenges ahead of them. You may make donations through Everyday Angels, where 100% goes to the family, GoFundMe.com/rallyforallie, or attend the many fundraising events scheduled throughout the county. For a listing of upcoming events, please follow on Facebook: Allie’s Rally Against Breast Cancer or Cherokee Gives a ______.
Everyday Angels is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving Cherokee County since 2000. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.everydayangels.info to donate via Paypal or send your donations to: Everyday Angels, PMB 380, 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Suite 620, Woodstock GA, 30189. One hundred percent of your funds will go to the family you specify. If you know of a special need in your community, e-mail aaeverydayangels@gmail.com
Bigger Lots Versus Green Space BY HARRY JOHNSTON
Would you rather have the largest possible lot for your home, or a smaller lot plus some community-owned green space? Cherokee County’s land use plan defines targets for the maximum number of residential units per acre in each area of the county. Limits on residential densities provide development that’s appropriate for the area, and keep some restraint on overall growth and the total build-out population of the county. Within those density limits, there’s been debate for years about whether it’s better to make each lot as large as possible, or to use smaller lots plus areas of community-owned green space. To allow that second option, the county adopted optional Conservation Subdivision (CONSUB) development standards about 15 years ago. The standards were originally pretty simple. The lots in a CONSUB could be half the size of traditional lots for the applicable zoning district, but the number of lots couldn’t exceed the theoretical maximum that could fit on the property using traditional lot sizes. The leftover land was left as green space. Developers loved CONSUB development because it gave them the maximum lot yield on property that was partly unbuildable, due to flood plain, wetlands or other natural constraints. The CONSUB standards have changed several times. The first change was to more restrictively determine the maximum number of lots. Half the unbuildable land and all land occupied by roads was taken out of the lot-yield calculation. At least 40% of the total land was required to be green space. That made the lot yields in CONSUBs more consistent with traditional development. Later, the CONSUB requirements were liberalized to allow even smaller lots, but the lot-yield calculations remained the same. There continues to be some opposition to CONSUBs based on the character of development they bring to an area. Even with about the same number of lots, the smaller lots in CONSUBs don’t always look like they belong in areas that mostly have larger, traditional lots. The county is considering another update to the CONSUB requirements. The biggest proposed change would require a developer to get specific zoning approval to use the CONSUB standards. It would no longer just be the developer’s choice. Required CONSUB lot sizes would be restored to 50% of traditional sizes. Green space would have to equal the total area of unbuildable lands plus 40% of the buildable land. We expect to hold hearings on the proposed changes in July and August, with a decision by the end of that time. As always, I’m interested in your thoughts. Please email me at hjohnston@cherokeega.com.
Harry Johnston is chairman of the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. He's a retired CPA and accounting manager, and a former district commissioner. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Family-owned senior living community cultivates person-centered lifestyles.
T
he Salabarria family created Oaks Senior Living in 1998 to care for elders who no longer can live safely at home. One of their properties, Oaks at Towne Lake is nestled on 5.6 acres next to the Rose Creek Library on Towne Lake Parkway, with 57 assisted-living and 29 memory-care apartments. Each aspect of the Towne Lake community, and the company’s other properties, has been built with the best interests of elders in mind, fulfilling a mission that CEO Alex Salabarria and his father began more than two decades ago.
Why Choose the Oaks? It’s family owned/operated. Oaks Senior Living is unique because it’s family-operated. Alex’s wife Denise is vice president of sales and marketing, brother Nelson is chief financial officer, brother-inlaw Douglas Shook is president of construction and development, sister Mirian and sister-in-law Melissa are the interior decorators. Chief Operations Officer Linda Bennett is like family, with more than 18 years with the company. They currently operate nine communities in Georgia and have two under development that will open in late 2019 and the summer of 2020. Residents feel valued. The family’s mission is to provide an environment where people are valued and appreciated, honoring personal choice and providing a sense of purpose while enabling meaningful relationships. Alex explains that “while structure is good within a senior living community, it’s also essential to have spontaneity, so
PHOTOS BY J. KING IMAGES
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“My father was faced with the difficult task of how to provide care for his mother when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s,” Salabarria said. “Her options were limited to skilled-nursing homes or small personal-care homes, with limited security for wandering and no dementia programming. The only choice was to place her in a skillednursing facility. It was at that point, my father dreamed of building a community where elders could live with dignity and respect.”
From left to right: Nelson Salabarria, Chief Financial Officer; Alex Salabarria, Chief Executive Officer; Denise Salabarria, Vice President of Sales and Marketing; Douglas Shook, President of Construction and Development.
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Our residents enjoy a variety of activities from painting classes to making dog biscuits to give the local animal shelter.
keep us active. We also enjoy men’s pool tournaments, a walking club, gardening, women’s tea parties, happy hour, Wii sports games, and a lot of musical entertainment.”
residents feel they are at home. Some of our unique amenities include all-day dining, bird aviaries, aquariums, community pets, chapel, separate secured memory care, and on-site physical and occupational rehab.” “Our social calendar has something for everyone,” Community Relations Director Shelley Winter said. “We go way beyond your typical bingo and exercise. The calendar is planned by the elders who reside in the community, and then executed by our lifestyle director. It’s outings to Braves baseball games, local restaurants, parks and shopping that
PHOTO BY TIGHE O’CONNOR WITH MARKENTUM
Community interaction is welcome. Oaks Senior Living embraces a multi-generational approach by creating a family-like culture among residents, their families, our teams and volunteers. Visitors from local daycare centers, schools, churches and various organizations often are in the communities, bridging the gap and cultivating joyful relationships between multiple generations.
Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Tax Moves to Consider in Summer DON AKRIDGE, MBA, CFP®, CPA/PFS U.S. MARINE CORPS VETERAN – EMORY UNIVERSITY ALUMNUS
the year of the contribution. If you make the maximum traditional IRA contribution of $6,000 in 2019, and you are in the 24-percent tax bracket, that translates to a $1,440 federal tax deduction for 2019.4 While summer may seem far from April, this is an excellent time to think about tax-saving possibilities. You and your tax professional have plenty of time to explore the options.
Now is a good time to think about a few financial matters, making changes earlier rather than later. If you own a business, earn a good deal of investment income, are recently-married or divorced, or have a Flexible Savings Account (FSA), you may want to think about making some tax moves now, rather than in December or April. Securities offered through registered representatives Do you now need to pay estimated income tax? of Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a brokerIf you are newly self-employed, or are really starting dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services to see significant passive income, you may need to through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors acquaint yourself quickly with Form 1040-ES and the Inc., a registered investment adviser. Cambridge is not quarterly deadlines. Every year, estimated tax payments affiliated with and does not endorse the opinions or to the Internal Revenue Service are due on or before services of Peter Montoya Inc. or MarketingPro Inc. the following dates: Jan. 15, April 15, This material was prepared by June 15, and Sept. 15. (These deadlines MarketingPro Inc., and does not While summer are adjusted if a due date falls on a necessarily represent the views of the may seem far weekend or holiday.) It might seem presenting party, nor their affiliates. simple just to make four consistent This information has been derived from from April, this payments per year, but your business sources believed to be accurate. Please is an excellent income may be inconsistent. If it is, and note:- Investing involves risk, and past you fail to adjust your estimated tax performance is no guarantee of future time to think payment per quarter, you may be setting results. The publisher is not engaged about tax saving in rendering legal, accounting or other yourself up for a tax penalty. So, confer with your tax professional about this. 1 professional services. If assistance possibilities. Has your household size changed? is needed, the reader is advised to That calls for a look at your pre-tax engage the services of a competent withholding. No doubt, you would like to take home professional. This information should not be construed more money now rather than wait to receive it in the as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied form of a tax refund later. This past April, the IRS said on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty. that the average federal tax refund was $2,864 – the This is neither a solicitation nor a recommendation to rough equivalent of a month’s salary for many people. purchase or sell any investment or insurance product Adjusting the withholding on your W-4 may bring you or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All more take-home pay. Ideally, you would adjust it so that indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any you end up owing no tax and receiving no refund.2 particular investment. Think about how you could use your FSA dollars Citations. before the end of the year. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act 1 - irs.gov/faqs/estimated-tax/individuals/ changed the rules for Flexible Spending Accounts individuals-2 [2/20/18] (FSAs). The IRS now permits an employer to let an 2 - fortune.com/2018/04/16/tax-day-2018-refund/ employee carry up to $500 in FSA funds forward into [4/16/18] the next calendar year. Alternately, the employer can 3 - cnbc.com/2017/12/29/how-to-use-your-flexibleallow the FSA account holder extra time to use FSA spending-account-funds-at-the-last-minute.html funds from the prior calendar year (up to 2.5 months). [12/29/17] Companies do not have to allow either choice, however. 4 - usatoday.com/story/money/taxes/2018/07/20/70If no grace period or carry-forward is permitted at your of-households-are-missing-out-on-this-importantworkplace, you will want to spend 100% of your FSA tax-break/36835905/ [7/20/18] funds in 2019, or you will lose those FSA dollars when 3 2020 begins. You could help your tax situation by contributing to certain retirement accounts. IRAs and non-Roth Don Akridge is president of Citadel Professional workplace retirement plans are funded with pre-tax Services, LLC, an independent firm, founded in 1994 and conveniently located off Chastain Road between dollars. By directing money into these retirement savings I-575 & I-75 in Kennesaw. 770-952-6707. vehicles, you position yourself for federal tax savings in 50
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The Lowdown
5 Options for Basement Flooring BY ELISABETH STUBBS
D
oes your basement need an update, or are you finally ready to tackle that unfinished space? The first thing you need to do is decide how you want to use your basement. This will determine your design plan and flooring choices. A living area needs to feel warm and cozy, a bedroom needs to have a quiet, relaxing feel. A game room needs exciting colors and an easy-to-clean floor. A theater room needs sound muffling fabrics and comfortable seating. Access to an outdoor space with a pool or hot tub requires waterproof floors. Your choice depends on how the basement will be used, and, of course, your budget.
Carpet
Carpet is softer and feels warmer. If you have toddlers, who spend a lot of their time playing on the floor this may be your better choice. It will cushion falls, and, for older children, help muffle noise. Expect regular cleanings though, especially when snacks and drinks are present.
Luxury Vinyl
In hard floor surfaces, you have several choices. Luxury vinyl is popular, looks great and comes in many different styles. It also has the added benefit of being practically waterproof.
Laminate
Another great option for basement floors is laminate. If you have large dogs and/or teenagers, this is the most cost efficient and durable surface you could hope for. It is incredibly scratch resistant, and looks so realistic, people will think you have installed wood. Most laminates tolerate spills that are cleaned up within a reasonable timeframe.
Tile
You can install tile in a basement, but this is your most expensive alternative. Most basement floors require extensive work to make them level for tile installation. That, combined with the fact that tile always feels cool, makes it less desirable in a basement.
Engineered Wood
A great option for basement floors is engineered wood. Wood is beautiful, it looks warm and feels good underfoot. If you plan to use your basement for hosting adult gatherings, this is a good choice. Unlike solid wood flooring, engineered wood has the stability needed to be installed over a concrete slab. Just make sure you ask the ladies to leave their stiletto heels at home, as they can damage wood floors.
Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors and More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
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1847 Roswell Road, Marietta 30062
770-565-3808
www.enhancefloors.com Enhance Floors located in the Restaurant Depot Shopping Center Big Chicken
Pike Nurseries
Roswell Rd
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Now Serving Canton!
Reformation Brewery opens at The Mill on Etowah
R
eformation Brewery is now open as the anchor tenant at The Mill on Etowah, a mixed use development under construction along the Etowah River with future access to nearby shopping, restaurants, river use and green space. Located at 141 Railroad St., Suite 500, the 20,000-plus-square-foot space features brewery tours, a public taproom with up to 32 taps, and the option for private event rentals. While it waits for nearby restaurants to open, the brewery plans to bring in food trucks for special events and on weekends, as advertised on its event calendar. Established in 2013, Reformation Brewery celebrates its sixth anniversary this October, and was co-founded by Cherokee County native Spencer Nix. “We’re so excited to deliver truly unique experiences for the good of our community. I’ve never
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New brewery features brewery tours, taproom, and private event space.
been more proud to be Cherokee and North Georgia born and raised,” he said. The project, led by developers Penn Hodge and Grant Schmeelk, is a unique opportunity to invest in the future of Cherokee County. “It’s not only a unique opportunity to meet our needs for expansion,” Nix said, “but also a chance to locate next to the Etowah River and participate in the renewal of a historic mill in the city of Canton.” “Understanding and being able to express the ‘why’ is our foundation for everything we do as a business. There is a lot of noise in our industry; we simply started with asking, ‘why do we really enjoy drinking good beer?’ Our answers kept coming back to the fact that well-made beer connects people to each other and to moments
in time. We built our entire business model on this concept of enjoying well-made beer as a gift, and sharing that gift with others.” “We hope to hear from the community about the types of experiences that matter most, whether it’s live music, trivia, game nights, etc.” “We are all ears for crafting meaningful moments to bring people together,” Nix said. According to Schmeelk, “Canton has all the historic bones to create something unique to our state and region. We are fortunate to have the chance to participate in the restoration
Sponsored Content TOWNELAKER | July 2019
The new location is the home for their main production facility, below left. Above: The sight glass allows for monitoring flow, color and clarity of the beer.
and transformation already started. We hope The Mill on Etowah, anchored by Reformation Brewery, will become a destination for all who wander into North Georgia, and a place to celebrate its wonderful gifts.”
www.reformationbrewery.com/canton Twitter @reformationbrew Instagram @reformationbrewery Facebook /reformationbrewery
IS YOUR TECHNOLOGY DRIVING YOU
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MAD? .
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Explore! The school bells will be ringing before we know it, beckoning our children to spend the bulk of their day inside the classrooms. So, let’s take advantage of this month to get outdoors and see what Cherokee County and North Georgia have to offer you and your family. To get you started, we're sharing information about Cherokee County and Woodstock city parks on pages 58-60, with a list of amenities at each park. Then head over to Red Top Mountain for a variety of activities, some of which we share on pages 62-63, planned by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Photo of Flowville Indian Springs courtesy of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
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Explore! Cherokee County Parks
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Badger Creek Park
Dwight Terry Park
Barnett Park
Field’s Landing Park
464 Blalock Road, Woodstock. Opened in fall 2012, the park includes 14 soccer fields of various sizes and is home to Cherokee Impact (www.csaimpact.com). Amenities include athletic fields and restrooms. 10795 Bells Ferry Road, Canton. Located on 25 acres along Bells Ferry Road, the park includes baseball/softball diamonds, a playground, picnic areas, restrooms and walking trails along Downing Creek.
Blankets Creek Bike Trails
Reason Way, Canton. Opened in 2000, these bike trails are among the most popular mountain trails in the U.S. They represent a partnership between Cherokee County, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Allatoona Lake) and SORBA Woodstock. There are more than 15 miles of volunteermaintained trails for beginners to advanced riders. Trails are closed during inclement weather. Amenities at the trailhead include parking, pavilions and restrooms.
Buffington Park and Gym
4600 Cumming Highway, Canton. Located on Cumming Highway, the park includes a baseball/softball diamond, outdoor basketball court, gymnasium, batting cages and a pavilion.
Cherokee County Aquatic Center
1200 Wellstar Way, Canton. Located off Sixes Road (Exit 11 on I-575), this is a state-of-the-art, full-service aquatics facility with two indoor pools and one outdoor leisure pool. The aquatic center offers instructional, fitness, therapeutic, competitive and recreational swimming opportunities. The Oasis, the outdoor leisure pool, includes a water playground, two water slides, play features, beach entry, pavilions, Funbrella, family restrooms, locker rooms and the Oasis Café.
Cherokee Mills Park
6900 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Located on Bells Ferry Road near Little River, this park offers access to Allatoona Lake. Three boat ramps and a boat dock make this a popular place to launch watercrafts. A day-use fee applies for the boat ramp, or you can purchase a season pass at the Recreation Center. The boat ramp is open seasonally, based upon lake levels. Daily fee $5, annual pass $40, military active duty and veterans half off, seniors 62 and older are free.
Cherokee Veterans Park
7345 Cumming Highway, Canton. Located on 149 acres in northeast Cherokee County, this is one of the largest in the county’s park system. Amenities include athletic fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, playground, skate park, walking trails, a large open meadow and restrooms.
Cline Park
704 Bartow St., Waleska. This 12-acre park includes tennis courts, a wooded walking trail, a playground and a seasonal splash pad.
13395 E. Cherokee Drive, Ball Ground. Located in northeast Cherokee County, this 30-acre park includes baseball/softball diamonds, a playground, restrooms and a half-mile paved walking track. It is home to the Junior Grizzlies youth baseball program. 600 Fields Landing Drive, Canton. Situated on the north side of Allatoona Lake, this park has spectacular views of the lake, along with a boat ramp, fishing dock, playground, restrooms, several picnic areas and pavilions. The boat ramp is open seasonally, based on lake levels. A day-use fee applies for the boat ramp, or purchase a season pass at the Recreation Center. Daily fee $5, annual pass $40, military active duty and veterans half off, seniors 62 and older are free.
Garland Mountain Horse and Hiking Trails
1411 Garland Mountain Way, Waleska. The 12½ miles of marked horse and hiking trails wind their way through 544 wooded acres in northwest Cherokee County. The trailhead has trailer parking, a pavilion and restrooms. The trails are maintained in partnership with the Friends of Garland Mountain.
Hickory Trails Park
3860 Hickory Road, Canton. Located in the Hickory Flat community, the park offers a three-quarter-mile walking trail on 24 pastoral and wooded acres. The trailhead is served by a gravel parking lot, restrooms and two pavilions (available on a firstcome, first-served basis).
Hobgood Park
6688 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Originally opened in April 1990, this 60-acre park remains one of the most active and heavily used parks in Cherokee County. In addition to youth baseball and adult softball leagues, it hosts multiple softball/ baseball tournaments every year. The walking track, playground and pavilions also are heavily used. To reserve a pavilion, call 770924-7768. For information about tennis programs or to reserve a court, contact the Cherokee Tennis Center at 770-592-4582 or www.cherokeetenniscenter.com.
J.J. Biello Park
155 Brooke Blvd., Woodstock. Spread over 470 acres along Rubes Creek and Little River, the park includes tennis, youth softball, youth football, soccer and lacrosse, as well as a large pavilion and playground.
Kenney Askew Memorial Park
1080 Univeter Road, Canton. One of the oldest parks in the Cherokee County system, it recently was expanded to include the new Richard Mauldin Sports Complex. Five new fields were opened in fall 2015. These fields are home to Canton Baseball. The park is also home to the Malon D. Mimms Boys and Girls Club. Amenities include: athletic field (available for rent), six baseball/softball diamonds, four tennis courts, playground, pavilion and restrooms.
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Cherokee County Parks
Explore!
continued from page 59
Lewis Park
200 E. Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. Nestled in 57 acres of wooded land south of Allatoona Lake, within a few minutes of the Towne Lake and Sixes communities, this park has a walking trail that winds along an unnamed tributary of the Little River, a playground, pavilions (first-come, first-served) and restrooms.
Patriots Park
1485 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth. The 33-acre park includes two natural grass baseball/softball diamonds, two fenced off-leash dog areas, a fully accessible and inclusive playground, a paved walking path throughout the park, a large open meadow, a picnic pavilion, a concession/restroom building and an artificial turf adaptive use baseball/softball diamond. Dubbed Freedom Field, the adaptive use field is home of the Cherokee County Miracle League program.
Recreation Center, South Annex
7545 Main St., Woodstock. Located within the South Government Annex, just north of downtown Woodstock, the Recreation Center is home to the Recreation and Parks offices and most of the indoor programming offered by CRPA. Amenities include: a gymnasium, community room, aerobics room, stage, playground, outdoor in-line hockey rink and restrooms.
Riverchase Park
150 River Glen Drive, Woodstock. Riverchase is a small neighborhood park in southeast Cherokee. It includes a playground and pavilion that is available on a first-come, firstserved basis.
Sequoyah Park
7000 Vaughn Road, Canton. Located on Vaughn Road in southeast Cherokee County, Sequoyah Park offers an athletic field, baseball/ softball diamonds, playground, walking trail and disc golf course.
Union Hill Community Center
1780 A. J. Land Road, Canton. Located in the community of Union Hill, this historic building has been a school and a church. Renovated in 2011, it now serves as a community center, with a banquet hall, warming kitchen, playground and restrooms. Available for weddings and parties. Call 770- 924-7768 to book.
Waleska Park
150 Ball Field Road, Waleska. Fully renovated and expanded in 2014, the park is located across the street from Reinhardt University. It has three youth baseball/softball diamonds, restrooms and a playground.
Weatherby Park
100 Worley Road, Canton. Located in the Clayton community, north of Canton, the park has an athletic field, three baseball/ softball diamonds and a pavilion, all available for rent. Also available is a playground, restrooms and a walking track. 60
Woodstock City Parks Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater
Home of the Woodstock Summer Concert Series, it features multiple grass terraces and a large main lawn to accommodate an audience of more than 7,500. The bandshell includes public restrooms that also serve the Park at City Center year-round.
The Park at City Center
The amenities of this downtown park include a gazebo, benches, fountain and the Woodstock War Memorial. The park is host to numerous community events, including: the Woodstock Summer Concert Series, July 4 Spectacular, KidsFest (in October) and the Christmas Jubilee.
Dupree Park
Located on Neese Road, just south of Arnold Mill Road in Woodstock, the park features a large playground, restrooms, four tennis courts, two basketball courts, quarter-mile walking trail, a fishing pond, three pavilions, a pickleball court, family mountain bike trails and an 18-hole disc golf course.
Dobbs Road Park
Located off Main Street, just east of Chattahoochee Technical College, the park features a quarter-mile walking trail and park benches.
Springfield Park
North of Highway 92 on Springfield Drive in Woodstock, it is heavily shaded and features picnic tables, benches and a small playground.
Olde Rope Mill Park
Located at the end of Rope Mill Road in Woodstock, the park features multiple mountain bike and multiuse trails, park benches, picnic tables, a park pavilion with grill and a scenic overlook/fishing platform. The park is home to the Taylor Randahl Memorial Mountain Bike Trail that has 14 miles of connecting trails that twist through nearly 100 acres of public park land. A pedestrian/bike bridge connects the south side of Little River to the north side, where you can see the remnants of an 1800s rope mill.
Woofstock Park
Located at 150 Dupree Road and open 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, this dog park’s amenities include separate large- and small-breed off-leash areas, shade structures, water fountains, benches and restroom facilities. Trailhead connections to Noonday Creek and Town Lake Pass trails are located here.
Canine companionship at Woofstock Park. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
Operation Dry Water Weekend Coming Soon BY GREG FONZENO
As part of the annual Operation Dry Water campaign, the local Lake Allatoona U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary joins in a nationally coordinated effort to educate boaters about the dangers of boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The mission of Operation Dry Water is to reduce the number of alcohol and drug-related accidents and fatalities on the water. While Operation Dry Water is an annual and season-long campaign, July 5-7 is the national weekend for heightened focus on boater education and rule enforcement. Alcohol use continues to be the leading known contributing factor in recreational boater deaths and a leading contributor in boating accidents. The Lake Allatoona Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is encouraging the local community to engage in safe boating practices, which includes keeping alcohol off the boat for both operators and passengers. Recreational boating is enjoyed by people and families nationwide. The goal is to not only educate boaters on the dangers of drinking alcohol and boating, but also to remind them of other safe boating practices, such as enrolling in a boater education course and always wearing a life jacket. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time on the water
much more than it does in a car because of the sun, heat, wind, noise and the vibrations of the boat. The Coast Guard Auxiliary wants everyone to have a great summer on the water and, to do that, boaters must remain sober and alert. As part of Operation Dry Water, weekend recreational boating safety volunteers, in collaboration with law enforcement in every U.S. state and territory, will be at marinas and on the water educating boaters about safe boating practices and removing impaired operators from our waterways. Last year, 494 impaired operators were removed by law enforcement across the country during the Operation Dry Water three-day weekend alone. Boaters can learn more about boating under the influence by visiting operationdrywater.org. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard coordinates Operation Dry Water nationally.
Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
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Explore! Georgia State Parks
The Department of Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks and Historic Sites manages more than 60 properties across Georgia, each providing a variety of programs and outdoor activities. Nearby Red Top Mountain State Park, with 1,776 acres and 15 miles of trails, offers swimming, fishing and skiing opportunities, as well as organized activities for all ages. The gravel-topped 4-mile Iron Hill Trail is the site where many activities are held. Most events are $7, unless otherwise indicated. Parking is $5. Red Top Mountain is located at 50 Lodge Road SE, Acworth, GA 30102. To register for a program, or for more information, call the park at 770-975-0055.
July 1, 8, 15, 22
Fantastic Forest: Glorious Grimoires 10 a.m.-noon. Discuss what a Grimoire is, practice drawing and observation skills, design your own magical look.
July 2, 9, 16, 23
Fantastic Forest: Magical Menagerie 10 a.m.-noon. Learn about magical beings and local wildlife. Interact with live animals, learn the lore surrounding them, and discuss mythological creatures from culture and fiction.
July 3, 10, 17, 24
Fantastic Forest: Enchanting Herbs 10 a.m.-noon. Hike the Iron Hill Trail to find extraordinary plants and learn their historical uses. Bring your Grimoire or notebook to record findings and make up your own potions.
July 4, 11, 18, 25
Fantastic Forest: Making Magic Wands 10 a.m.-noon. Learn how to identify trees, their magical uses of the past, and make your own wand, which will be provided. To whittle your wand, bring a pocket knife.
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July 15
Sensory Ranger 1-3 p.m. This program is designed for those with alternate sensory needs. Explore nature with a ranger using handson experiences, games, nature walks and other interactive events to facilitate learning and exploration. Call to register. Inclement weather may cancel event. $10.
July 18
History Hike 1-3 p.m. Meet at the Iron Hill Trail parking lot for a guided tour of part of the trail. Discover history of Red Top before it was a park, and search for hidden gems in iron mines. 1.7-mile loop, moderate terrain. No charge.
July 22
Teen Ranger: Archery 1-3 p.m. Learn and practice archery skills. Targets, bows and arrows will be provided. Rangers will assist in safety and skill building. Call to register. $10. Junior Rangers show off their patches and booklet. Photos courtesy of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
July 5, 12, 19, 26
Fantastic Forest: Beginner Broom Skills 10 a.m.-noon. Learn the history and basics of brooms, and play a broom skills game.
July 6, 13, 20, 27
Family Movie Nights 8:45-10 p.m. Bring a blanket, chairs and a snack, and meet on the green at picnic shelters 1, 2 and 3 to enjoy a movie, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Red Top Mountain State Park and Lake Allatoona. All movies rated G or PG. Movies start at dark (about 8:45 p.m.). No charge.
July 8
Toddler Ranger 1-3 p.m. Toddlers explore nature with a ranger using hands-on experiences, play, nature walks, and other interactives to facilitate learning and exploration. Bring a snack for snack time. Call to register. Inclement weather may cancel event. $10 plus.
July 10
Silent Signing Stroll 1-3 p.m. Learn and practice American Sign Language with a ranger. Meet at Iron Hill Trail for a leisurely 1.5 mile walk using ASL signs for things discovered. No charge.
July 13
Field Journal Journeys: Bugging Out! 10-11:30 a.m. Recommended for ages 10 to adult. Learn about some interesting invertebrates when searching for snails, bugs, insects and other critters. A plant smash with the plants they interact with also is planned. Call to register. Inclement weather may cancel event. Pioneer Skills: Medicinal Plants/ Apothecary 1-3 p.m. Learn how to identify local plants and how they have been used medicinally. Rangers will give instructions on how to make infusions, poultices, salves and more. Call to register. Inclement weather may cancel event.
July 26
Distracted with Rangers 7:30-9:30 p.m. Bring your camera or smartphone to take photos for iNaturalist and a bioblitz project. Meat at the Iron Hill trailhead. No charge.
July 31
Fantastic Forest Festival 10 a.m.-noon. A family festival to celebrate the end of the Fantastic Forest Series will include trivia, broom skills tournament, wand design competition, cauldron slime making and more. Dress up and bring your wands (no gore). No charge. In other activities, Junior Ranger day camps are available during July at Fort Mountain State Park and Picketts Mill Battlefield Historic Site. Etowah Games Days are set for 10 a.m.-1 p.m. July 6 at the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville. Learn sports and games played by the civilizations that lived in the Etowah River area hundreds of years ago. This is just a sampling of the programs available at parks throughout Georgia. For more details, visit www.gastateparks.org.
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Keep a Watch on Your Wiper Blades BY DANNY BRANOM
It's easy to forget that wipers are a safety feature — until you end up driving in heavy rain, or are blinded by glare through dirty glass. An unclean or obscured windshield is a true hazard. Drivers may not realize their vehicle’s wipers are shot until there is an immediate visibility concern. By then, it can be too late, since many accidents are a result of poor visibility. Wiper blades have a finite service life. Dirt, debris and road grime abrade wipers, and sunlight breaks down their rubber edges. Beyond visibility, it is important not to wait too long to replace a blade, as a torn blade can allow the wiper arm to rub against the glass, possibly scratching and ruining the windshield. When it’s time for new blades, remember to replace them in pairs. If one is worn out, its mate can't be far behind. Don't forget to check the rear wiper, if your vehicle has one. Even though it may not get as much use, it is exposed to the elements and can fail over time. Depending on the model, deterioration shows up on the windshield as streaking (leaving lines of water behind), smearing of the water (instead of clearing it), or missed areas of wiping. Wiper blades will typically provide very good or better performance when new, with performance dropping off quickly. Most blades should provide adequate performance for about six months, after which they should be replaced.
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Windshield wiper blades come in many sizes, even for the same make and model. Look in your car's owner's manual, measure the blade, or ask at an auto-parts store for the proper fit. Major brands you are likely to see include: Anco, AC Delco, Bosch, Goodyear, Michelin, PIAA, Rain-X and Trico. Prices vary greatly depending on the brand, type and size. The most common design, known as conventional wipers, has a replaceable rubber blade that fits into a springtensioned frame assembly, or bridge. Most blades have a metal spline that supports the rubber element, and runs through the ribs of the contact points. Unlike conventional wipers, beam blades have no external frames. Instead, they have spring steel incorporated into the rubber. As a result, beam blades are promoted as providing more uniform pressure on today's curved windshields, and therefore better wiping performance. Also known as bracketless, beam blades are becoming increasingly popular.
Danny Branom is owner/operator of Christian Brothers Automotive in Towne Lake. 770-926-4500. www.cbac.com/townelake.
Celebrate Your Marriage With Fireworks BY BILL RATLIFF
As you celebrate the birth of our nation this month, I encourage you to consider the marriage of John and Abigail Adams, who most certainly were a founding father and mother of our country. Each of them was a talented and amazing individual who became part of a powerful couple. John was a fair-minded lawyer who advocated for complete separation from Great Britain. He was a member of the Continental Congress, was part of the committee responsible for the Declaration of Independence and, in 1797, became the second president of the United States. He was the only one of the first 12 presidents who did not own a slave. Abigail was a close adviser to her husband while he was president, similar to the role Nancy Reagan had with her husband, President Ronald Reagan. Abigail was the first first lady to live in the White House, and was often referred to as Mrs. President. She was a strong advocate for women's rights, and has been labeled the first feminist. She was an abolitionist who objected to the anti-slavery clause being removed from the U.S. Constitution. As a couple, John and Abigail communicated well, and were intentional about it. When he was an ambassador, he was away from her for long stretches of time. She asked him to write letters to her more frequently, and he complied. When his letters were, in her opinion, too short and to the point, she requested that he write longer letters with more emotional content. He did. Although they both were outspoken, and their opinions differed on various issues, they seemed able to disagree with an agreeable spirit and respect for each other. What stands out most to me about them, as a couple, is that they helped change the culture in their day about marriage. Prior to the Revolutionary War, marriage partners were chosen by parents. John and Abigail were pioneers of a better approach to marriage. They came together because of their love for each other. They were known as American sweethearts. Their relationship reminds me of Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
Date Your Mate Find a fireworks display. Take your blanket or chairs to watch the excitement. Whether you are with family or alone, celebrate those moments together, as we celebrate our nation.
Bill Ratliff is a pastoral counselor and certified life coach. Contact him at billratliffcatalyst@gmail.com or www.billratliffcatalyst.com.
A business networking party! SCHMOOZE \’shmüz\ (verb): to converse casually, especially for social and business connections PALOOZA \’pa•lü•zah\ (noun): a large scale party!
Located at:
Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Pkwy., Woodstock (Exit 9, I-575)
Tuesday, August 6th 4:00 - 7:00 pm
Free Admission! Networking
Exhibitors
A Taste of Cherokee Give-aways & Door Prizes
Open to the Public! Presented by:
www.CherokeeChamber.com 770-345-0400 Brandy@CherokeeChamber.com TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Down the Shore BY REV. ELIZABETH LOVELL MILFORD
The first church I served was on the Mainline of Philadelphia. Every week in the summertime, I would hear stories about how people had gone or were going “down the shore” (that’s Northeastern speak for going to the beach, usually the New Jersey coastline). The phrase described more than a destination; it reflected a change of pace from the chaos of the work week and the opportunity to kick back and relax. In the book of Acts, we find the story of Lydia, a wealthy business woman among the elite of Philippi, who took a break from her routine on the Sabbath to go outside the city and down to the river for prayer. There, she met Paul and other missionaries. They joined together in worship, and her heart was opened. She opened her house to these travelers and others in the community, providing an inspiring image of hospitality and leadership in the early church. Her life, and the lives of those around her, changed, simply because she was willing to step outside her everyday life and seek respite. Because she was willing to go “down the shore.” Where do you go for renewal? For me, it’s Montreat, North Carolina, a small town nestled in the mountains of North Carolina just east of Asheville, home to one of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s conference centers. I’ve gone,
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in some capacity, almost every summer of my life, and each time I experience something new. One of my favorite things is to sit by the banks of the creek, listening to the babble of ice-cold water tumbling over smooth rocks. It’s transformative, and provides physical relaxation along with spiritual reflection and meditation. It seems, when the rhythm of my life changes, and when I’ve literally moved myself to a location “set apart,” I am more open to profound moments in my faith. I am more able to see what God is really up to in my life. This summer, I encourage you to find places where you can take deep breaths, and engage in meditation, contemplation or even prayer. You can find places on a trip out of town, or locally (there are many walking paths and hikes, and bodies of water in this beautiful part of Georgia), or even in the comfort of air conditioning, if that’s more your speed. But, carve out those sacred spaces in your life, and open yourself to experiencing them, not just once in a while, but regularly, if you can. Who knows what life-changing, lifegiving moments they might bring. Rev. Milford is pastor of Heritage Presbyterian Church (www.heritagepres.com), and lives in Woodstock with her husband and two sons.
are you all IN? IN WDSTK is an INvestor based 501(c)6 which exists to bring together local residents and businesses from every community who are INvesting, INvolved and INcluded IN Woodstock’s growth and opportunity. We host over 85 networking, business development and community engagement opportunities annually. Business INvestments start as low as $100 per year. If you are ready to be all IN, join us today: inwdstk.org/invest or by calling 770-592-6056
be our guest. July 2019 Events YPOW AM - networking and local leaders Thursdays at 7 AM // Copper Coin Coffee Film Ready Woodstock at the Morning INfluence Friday July 26 at 8 AM // Chambers at City Center Register as a guest at inwdstk.org/events
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Downtown Woodstock Dining Canyons
Reel Seafood
Tapas/Sushi 380 Chambers St. 770-672-6334 icemartinibar.com
Century House Tavern
Ipps Pastaria & Bar
Rootstock and Vine
Italian 8496 Main St. 770-517-7305 ippspastaria.com
Wine bar & Tapas 8558 Main St. 770 -544-9009 rootstockandvine.com
J Christopher’s
Salt Factory Pub
Modern American 125 E Main St. 770-693-4552 centuryhousetavern.com
Copper Coin Coffee American 400 Chambers St. 470-308-6914 coppercoinwoodstock.com
Fajita Valley Mexican 180 Towne Lake Parkway 770-928-2570 fajitavalley.com
Fire Stone Wood-fired Pizza & Grill 120 Chambers St. 770-926-6778 firestonerestaurants.com
Freight Kitchen & Tap
Diner 315 Chambers St. 770-592-5990 jchristophers.com
J Miller’s Smokehouse BBQ & Southern Sandwiches 150 Towne Lake Parkway 770-592-8295 jmillerssmokehouse.com
Mad Life Studios
Gastropub 8690 Main St. 678-903-6225 saltfactorypub.com/woodstock
Semper Fi Bar and Grille American 9770 Main St. 770-672-0026 semperfibarandgrille.com
Tea Leaves & Thyme English Tea room 8990 Main St. 770-516-2609 tealeavesandthyme.com
Partners II Pizza
Truck & Tap
Pizza 8600 Main St. 678-224-6907 partnerspizza.com/woodstock-ga
Habanero’s Taqueria
Pure Taqueria
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Seafood 8670 Main St. 770-627-3006 reel-seafood.com
Southern 8722 Main St. madlifestageandstudios.com
Southern 251 E. Main St. 770-924-0144 freightkitchen.com
Mexican 9550 Main St. 678-498-8243 habanerostaqueria.com
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Ice Martini & Sushi Bar
American 335 Chambers St. 678-494-8868 canyonsfresh.com
Mexican 405 Chambers St. 770-952-7873 puretaqueria.com/woodstock
Variety of Food trucks 8640 Main St. 770-702-1670 truckandtap.com
Vingenzo’s Italian 105 E. Main St. 770-924-9133 vingenzos.com
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GREENPRINTS TRAIL SYSTEM
Sources: City of Woodstock, Esri, HERE, DeLorme, TomTom, Intermap, increment P Corp., GEBCO, USGS, FAO, NPS, NRCAN, GeoBase, IGN, Kadaster NL, Ordnance Survey, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong Kong), swisstopo, MapmyIndia, Š OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community
Visit our website for more information on these or other trail projects. www.greenprintsalliance.org
Noonday Creek Trail - This 1.43 mile paved trail begins at Market Street in Downtown Woodstock one block west of Main Street. It continues downhill toward Noonday Creek where it intersects with Towne Lake Pass Trail and the bridge to Woofstock Park. The trail continues along Noonday Creek to its current end at Highway 92. Trestle Rock Trail - This 0.40 mile flat paved trail is located in Olde Rope Mill Park on the banks of Little River. Towne Lake Pass - This approximately 1.2 mile trail connects the Towne Lake community to Downtown along Noonday reek. It runs from the intersection of Towne Lake Parkway and Towne Lake Hills South to Woofstock Park. C Rubes Creek Trail - This .5 mile trail runs along Rubes Creek and will ultimately connect into a larger run of trails. 72
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There’s No Place Like a Global Home BY JUSTIN SPAINHOUR-ROTH
"There's no place like home!" For nearly 80 years, this iconic phrase has been a part of American popular culture, thanks to the 1939 musical film, “The Wizard of Oz.” Based on L. Frank Baum's original 1900 novel, the story, its characters, and its songs are timeless and universal. This July, at Elm Street, we will bring the classic film to life in a faithful stage adaption. We’ve also been given a wonderful opportunity to work with the Canton-based nonprofit Goshen Valley. One of the elements of our partnership with them is bringing awareness to their organization, specifically foster families and adoption, to tie in with the idea that, "there's no place like home." After our initial logistics meetings, our director for “The Wizard of Oz” had an idea to help spread the word: Make T-shirts for the cast and production team. She connected us with a nonprofit shirt company called GOEX, which is owned by the Global ... we want to Orphan Project. By ordering use the musical through them, the shirts will and the story as help fund this organization, supporting orphan children a platform to and contributing to the livelihood of the company’s talk about the workers. idea of home, One of the things we love to do with our programming the adoption and at Elm Street, whether it is foster process with our theater productions or outdoor concerts such in Georgia... as the Lantern Series, is to connect the material and event to something bigger, something with which our audiences really can engage. With “The Wizard of Oz,” we want to use the musical and the story as a platform to talk about the idea of home, the adoption and foster process in Georgia, and how other organizations are combating orphanhood around the world. In a similar way, with a different medium, we'll be closing out the inaugural season of the Lantern Series on July 27, with an instrumental trio that is out of this world! Incorporating sounds from Senegal, India, Africa, South America and more, House of Waters uses instruments from around the globe. This not only showcases home for the artists, but also shows us how we are connected, through music, to a singular global home. Like Dorothy, we invite you to share your journey with others, as we often have much more in common than we initially think. Just follow the yellow brick road.
Justin Spainhour-Roth, education and marketing coordinator for Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, has a bachelor of arts in communication in musical theater from Bowling Green State University.
UPCOMING AT ELM STREET
H o u s Weo r l od |f S e W aters THE LONE BELLOW negal T R I I I O T O U R /// A c o u s t i c A LT / I N D I E C O U N T RY | N A S H V I L L E , T N
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JULY 10th-24th Registration is OPEN for
FALL CLASSES ELMSTREETARTS.ORG | 678.494.4251 TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Tips for
Back-to-School Success BY BRYCE JONES
Summer is coming to an end, and a new school year is about to begin. Start off strong and be prepared by following these simple tips.
a good first impression. 1. Make This is your chance to start off on the right foot, and
you should start on Day One. If the first impression you give your new teachers is a positive one, they are more likely to cut you some slack if you mess up later on. However, if you come out of the gates poorly, it will be harder for you to change their opinions of you. The same applies for new friends and classmates. Be positive, friendly and approachable, and put your best self out there.
everyone. 2. Respect Use the Golden Rule, and treat others the way you
want to be treated. Respect your peers, teachers, the staff, and even your parents, because, if you treat them with respect, they will treat you with respect.
organized. 3. Stay Have an organizational plan, so you can stay on top
of things. Keep track of assignments, tasks, due dates and tests using to-do lists, agendas, special binders, calendars or even apps to set reminders and keep on track. Forgetting to turn in an assignment is a bad grade you easily can prevent.
involved. 5. Get Most schools offer clubs, sports and extracurricular
activities that cover a wide variety of interests. Getting involved is a great way to get to know the staff, and to find other students who share similar interests. You also will be interacting with teachers in a whole new way, getting to know them outside the classroom in a less formal setting. Whatever you’re interested in, you probably can find a club that you enjoy, and make new friends along the way.
for help when you need it. 6. Ask We all need a little help from time to time.
When learning new materials and concepts, there may be things you don’t grasp right away. You could have problems with friends, at home, or with teachers. Don’t let things go until they’re out of hand. Asking for help is the smart thing to do, and you should never be embarrassed to seek it out. If you don’t ask, no one will know, and no one will be able to help. Whether it’s from your friends, parents, teachers, counselors or other staff members, don’t be too shy to seek advice.
procrastinate. 4. Don’t You know what it’s like waiting until the last minute
to study for a test or start an assignment. It’s stressful, and your grades may suffer. Get in the habit of getting an early start, so you can get it over with, and enjoy the rest of the time you have − stress free! 74
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Bryce Jones is a seventh-grader at Woodstock Middle School and a member of the Friends Club.
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Let’s Hear from the Moms A list of must-haves from your neighbors who have sent boys and girls to college. Jackie Loudin Sending boys off to school is probably a lot easier than girls. I don’t know for sure, since I have three sons, but I would imagine so. When it came time to pack them up, and move them to college, I focused on three things: comfort, health and practicality. Comfort included a memory foam bed topper, a favorite blanket from home, and all their favorite snacks. Comfort often comes in the form of food for my guys. Health items were a well-stocked medicine box with instructions, because they couldn’t be bothered with reading dosage info on the cough medicine; their health insurance card; and shower shoes. Not much has changed through the years in those shared showers in boys’ college dorms, so a trusty pair of flip flops is a great way to avoid athletes’ foot. Practicality covered things such as a microwave, a few dishes, cups and utensils, a can opener, washing machine detergent pods (again, they couldn’t be bothered with measuring laundry soap) and a gas card for those weekend trips back home for mom to do their laundry. On second thought, forget about the laundry pods.
Bless Darrah was hero of the hall with her cold remedies.
Leisa Darrah
Matthew Loudin at Shorter University.
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When my daughter Bless went to Ole Miss, it was our first experience sending a child off to college. We were emotional, excited and apprehensive! One great idea I had was a care package, just in case my child got sick away from home for the first time without her momma. I used a decorative box and filled it with her favorite soups, like chicken noodle soup, chicken and rice, chicken and stars, saltine crackers, a microwaveable bowl, vitamin C, Halls menthol cough drops, cold meds, ibuprofen, and anything I could think of that I would give her if she had been home. Sure enough, within two weeks, everyone was sick. She became the hero of the hall!
Karri Flaherty
Mary Janos
When my daughter went to Louisville, we learned the hard way that you should purchase a cheap safe: they are $30-$60. Too large to walk away without being noticed, but not too big to store easily under a bed or a desk. They are great for gift cards, drivers license, credit cards, expensive sunglasses, nicer jewelry, car keys, etc. — just about anything that is smaller and you don’t want to walk off. Not all college students know their roommates, and even if you think you do, you really don’t!
Both of my girls went to college their first year without vehicles. One went to the University of Georgia and the other went to Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville. I was sure to pack them a shoebox full of medications they would need if they got sick with a cold, stomach bug, etc. Sudafed, Ibuprofen, Nyquil, cortisone ... anything they would find in a home’s medicine cabinet that would make them more comfortable if they couldn't get to a store. They both called me at some point late at night saying they felt awful, and I was glad I could tell them to just take some of the cold medicine I packed. I also included basic cleaning supplies, like Clorox wipes, in case they occasionally attempted to make their living area clean. A fan is a must, especially in the UGA old school dorms. I suggest a floor fan and a clip-on fan for their bed. A sound machine would've been helpful, and an eye mask, when the roommate was on a different schedule. Most of the dorms now have separate rooms, and students have a lot more privacy than when my kids went 3-4 short years ago. They both shared a single room with a roommate, which ended up being great experiences. My advice is to make the dorm rooms as comfortable as possible with rugs (that definitely will get thrown out at the end of the year) and soft lighting, because they will get homesick, even if they are just an hour away, and you want them to be as comfortable as possible. Make their rooms welcoming, but know that you may never see some of that stuff again, so don't invest too much.
Kristin Replogle I could not think of material things that I should have gotten for my children, but what I did try to leave my children with when I dropped them off was the knowledge that:
1.
They were loved and I was so very proud of them for working hard and making it to college. I was proud that they wanted to go, and have goals for their lives.
2.
I trusted them and was confident in them. They were good kids.
3.
I would be praying for them, and God loves them. On a side note, I thought it was important for them to know they would be missed, and, yes, I would cry, but I wanted them to know I had goals and plans for myself, too. As they would press into their futures, I would, too.
Tori Janos with roommate Katelyn Jepson. Top right, Taylor Janos says goodbye to her dad.
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Let’s Hear from the Moms
continued from page 77
Cindy Crews
• Comfy toppers for the mattress. • A headboard for the bed • A trunk for storage, with a cushioned seat for extra seating.
To me, a college dorm room is cold and sterile. I wanted my daughter’s room to be a comfortable, homey place, especially the bed. I couldn’t stand the thought of her sleeping on a dorm room mattress!
The Youngs with daughter Megan, getting son Jonathan settled at Mercer University.
So, two of the top things I’m glad I sent her to college with are extra mattress toppers and a fun headboard. Everyone knows to send a plastic mattress cover, and even a cloth one. I also got a memory foam topper. The cloth topper also had some cushioning in it. This made for a very plush and comfy place to sleep! We also made a custom headboard. It was quite simple to do. We googled the height and width of a raised college dorm bed. Then, we cut a rectangle of plywood as the base of the headboard and added 2x4s as the legs. I covered the plywood with several layers of soft cotton batting and then added a fun fabric. This made my daughter’s dorm room bed look like a real bed! Lastly, I’m glad I sent a wooden trunk that we gave a makeover. We added a thick cushion, covered, again, with fun fabric. This piece gave her extra storage, plus it gave additional seating in her dorm.
The Youngs with son Joey at Georgia Tech.
Sheri Young My kids were extremely easy to send off, and really didn't require much, thankfully. Joey was thankful for his sewing kit, and used it to help out a few classmates. Jonathan found that it was very easy to leave interior lights on in his car and kill his battery, so a battery charger for the car is a must. Command Strips can be used to hang anything. 78
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Ashleigh Crews’ dorm had a cushy bed and wooden trunk for storage.
College
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The Ultimate Guide to Packing BY ANSLEY CARTWRIGHT
College packing can be a stressful time. Your guest room and garage are covered in pillows, lamps and supplies. High school graduation brought in a full wallet of gift-card currency. This is a time of preparation, as you pack up your dorm-sized life into a minivan and head off. This is a time of learning how to pack for independence, and here are a few tips to help along the way:
For the Twin XL
When it comes to community dorm beds, you’re going to need a mattress cover and mattress pad — you don’t need to invest hundreds to use it for 8 months, but it should be comfortable. If you plan on lofting your bed, get a shelf to attach to the frame to hold whatever you need at night, because the ladder down isn’t worth the forgotten retainer. Dorm thermostats are about as predictable as the weather, so make your bed in layers with a clip-on fan. Whether you don’t want to do laundry often, or have a revolving door of guests, keep an extra sheet set in your closet. Your friends on the futon will thank you.
For the Closet
You won’t need your whole closet from home, but you might need all the hangers. Pack by season, with a few overlapping pieces. Bring your summer clothes, with a pair of jeans, a light jacket and a raincoat, and interchange these items to adapt to the weather. When it comes to shoes and outfits, pack for the following: class, casual, church, cocktail and career. And, don’t forget the duffle bag for your first trip home. Even though your mom will promise to wash your clothes any time you go back, you need to do laundry before then. Pack your detergent and dryer sheets, and know what to do with them.
For the Essentials
College is fun, but you have to learn while you’re there. Pack your pens and notebooks, but keep it compact to fit in your backpack, since most of your studying won’t be in the dorm. You’ll remember all your technology, but it’s easy to forget the chargers. Pack extension cords, especially one long enough to reach from the outlet to a lofted bed. Huge resident halls are just part of the bunk-bed lifestyle that
makes illness inevitable. Buy a first aid kit and bring your insurance card. A can of chicken soup, gatorade, crackers and ginger ale may be equally important.
For the Room
Hang hooks for your towels, and get a towel wrap for the hikes down the hall to the community shower. Get a shower-caddy with holes to drain the water and don’t forget your flip-flops. Invest in as many command strips as money can buy — they really will hold your life together, or, at least, your pinterest-inspired decor. You might want to get a futon or chairs to entertain your new friends, or to collapse in after class. College is harsh, but resident hall lighting is worse. Get a lamp, or two, to leave on for your roommate when you go to bed first, and a full-length mirror to share in the mornings.
For Cleaning It
A multi-surface cleaner or Clorox wipes go a long way during flu season, when the health center’s schedule is even more packed than yours. You may have packed 37 matching mugs, but you’ll need dish soap for your 38th cup of coffee. Consider having ziplock bags for the pizza you ordered at midnight but couldn’t finish, and you won’t know you need stain remover for your favorite shirt until it’s too late. If you get a rug, get a vacuum, but keep it small. You can’t just shake it out and sweep it up the way you might think. The truth is, your minivan might be packed with Keurigs, curtains and containers, but you won’t be able to bring everything you want. Try to take what you will need. Your parents will thank you when it’s time to move it all back. You may start off with decor that fills your walls, or move into an almost empty shoebox, but this is your space. This shoebox of yours is exactly that — all yours. You’ll bring what you want and decorate it how you please, but it might take a few Walmart runs to truly make it your home.
Ansley Cartwright is a public relations student in Grady College at the University of Georgia, and is a content creator for UGA's community of Odyssey Online. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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School News TLBA 2019 Scholarship Winners Congratulations to the Towne Lake Business Association's 2019 scholarship winners.
Etowah High School
• Abigail Billings (Entrepreneurial) • Amber Martinez (WBL) • Taylor Glass (WBL / Leadership) • Madeline Fisher (WBL / Leadership) • Chase Thomas (Leadership)
River Ridge High School
• Justin Bacon (WBL) • Tianna Francis (WBL) • Claudia Quintanilla (WBL) • Vanessa Martinez (WBL)
Woodstock High School
• Alexandra Hegman (Entrepreneurial) • Katelyn Gann (WBL) • Chloe Leroy (Leadership) • Malachi Brewer (Leadership) • Katherine Gilliam (WBL)
New App Displays School Lunch Menus The Cherokee County School District will offer students and parents a closer look at school cafeteria menus this school year, with the new MealViewer To Go app and website. The system lists what’s on the breakfast and lunch menu each day, and also includes photos and nutritional information. The menu for the first day of school is available now through MealViewer, with more menus, photos and nutritional information being added daily in preparation for the start of school. “Our award-winning school nutrition department, led by Director Tina Farmer, is dedicated to providing nutritious and delicious meals to students, and ensuring parents are informed about those choices,” Superintendent of Schools Brian V. Hightower said. “MealViewer is yet another way our school nutrition department is improving customer service, and we appreciate all that they do to keep our children wellfed and focused.” To use MealViewer, students and parents can visit the website at https://schools.mealviewer.com (there’s also a link on the Menus page on the school district website) or download the free app on their smartphone. It’s easy to set up a free account, and you can find your school by searching for it by name, or by city. 80
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From left: Molly Childs, Cherokee County Farm Bureau women’s committee chairman, farmer Robert Grizzle and Amber Martinez.
Scholarship Winner Will Attend UGA Amber Martinez, a graduate of Etowah High School, was selected to receive a $1,500 scholarship from the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Foundation for Agriculture. She plans to attend the University of Georgia to study animal health. The GFB Foundation annually awards scholarships to outstanding students pursuing college degrees in agriculture or an ag-related degree at a college in the University System of Georgia.
Clark Creek Receives International Certification Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy is the first school in the Cherokee County School District, and only the 183rd in the world, to earn STEM certification from AdvancED, the international accreditation agency for educational institutions. To earn AdvancED STEM certification, schools must demonstrate "qualities and components vital to creating and sustaining superior, studentcentered Pre-K-12 STEM teaching and learning programs, as well as clear expectations for student outcomes and mastery of 21st-century skills." The school was officially certified by the AdvancED STEM Review Team after numerous classroom observations and stakeholder interviews.
Clark Creek teachers and staff
Woodstock Graduate Headed to Air Force Academy Anna Fournaris, a Woodstock High School class of 2019 graduate, has been appointed to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy. She served as the school’s Navy Junior ROTC commanding cadet officer, and is headed to the service academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, later this month to begin her studies. She plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science, and go on to serve after graduation as an air battle manager for the Air Force. As cadet commanding officer for Woodstock High’s JROTC, Fournaris was responsible for 112 cadets, and was a valuable asset to the program and the school, also Anna Fournaris serving as a member of the program’s nationally ranked Brain Brawl team. She was a member of the National Honor Society, school swim team, Civil Air Patrol and USAPL competitive powerlifting team, and was selected from a pool of students statewide for the State Superintendent of Schools’ Student Advisory Council. In 2018, Fournaris was recognized with the Wells-Pratt Award from the Navy League of the United States Atlanta Metropolitan Council. The award included a trophy and $1,500 scholarship.
Bascomb Bus Driver Goes Extra Mile A Bascomb Elementary School bus driver, Tammi Nelms, went the extra mile to celebrate the end of the school year. She made each kindergartner on her bus a “Peace Out, Kindergarten” T-shirt as a gift. As one parent said, “This shows how our Bascomb bus drivers not only care about safety, but go above and beyond to care for our children!”
Summer Reading Made Easy Research suggests that children who do not read during the summer months lose up to three months of reading ability. Additional research supports growth in reading skills when a child is presented with opportunities to read or listen to books or stories. While the school district does not mandate nor assess summer reading, children and their families are encouraged strongly to participate in reading for enjoyment during the summer. The Georgia Department of Education and Get Georgia Reading have provided summer reading opportunities for students through a resource called myOn by Renaissance, providing access to more than 6,000 book titles, as well as daily news links, activities and suggestions for parents and children based on reading levels and interests. This summer opportunity is available to students through Aug. 31. Visit this web page for instructions on how to get started, https://tinyurl.com/y3ehhwac.
Showing off their gift from “Ms. Tammi” are Parker Harlow, Audrey Spiece, Dumi Mlia, Presley Sturgill, Lola Wilson, Greyson Warren and Aaron Westrip.
celebrate their new certification. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Congratulations Graduates!
Matthew John Waldroop, a Woodstock High School graduate, will attend Reinhardt University.
Congratulations Class of 2019 Valedictorians and Salutatorians Front row, from left: River Ridge High School valedictorian Hailey Martin; Creekview salutatorian Emily McGhee and valedictorian Samantha Motley; River Ridge salutatorian Carson Clements; Woodstock valedictorian Alex Hegman; Cherokee valedictorian Morgan Feltham and salutatorian Adam Nichols. Back row: Sequoyah salutatorian Brae Davies; Etowah salutatorian Tori Ridgeway and valedictorian Riley McCready; Sequoyah valedictorian Natasha Ambriz and Woodstock salutatorian Johnny Vaughan.
Above, former Boston Bears are now Etowah High School graduates. 82
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Kristin Dyson graduated from Etowah, and is headed to Baylor University.
Clark Creek Elementary alumnae returned for a visit.
Abigail Cartwright, an Etowah grad, will attend the University of North Georgia.
Etowah grad, Reece Godwin, is headed to Kennesaw State University.
Woodstock High graduate, Connor McCall, with grandparents, Richard and Linda Willoughby.
Connor Herod graduated from the University of Georgia. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Daniel Ponder graduated from the University of Georgia.
Chattahoochee Tech students celebrated graduation in commencement ceremonies held on May 16.
Jake Pollack graduated from the University of Georgia.
Etowah graduates, Braedon Mongold, left, will attend Auburn University, and Jacob VandeCorput, is headed to Kennesaw State University.
Etowah grad Thomas Simonson will attend Mississippi State University.
Once Bascomb Bobcats, now these students are Etowah High School graduates Left, George McCulloch graduated from Middle Georgia State University with a Bachelor's in Aviation Management and has been hired as a pilot by Delta's Endeavor Air program. 84
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Katherine Tilton graduated from Etowah and will attend SCAD in Atlanta.
Emerson Amick graduated from Etowah, and will do mission work in Italy and West Africa for a year.
Woodstock High School graduates walked the halls at Woodstock Elementary.
Etowah High grads, from left, Sara Mummert, Reece Godwin, Sarah Trotta, Grace Cronkrite, Emerson Amick, Abigail Billings, Paige Tallman and Olivia Podstada. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Towne Lake Area Homes Sold in May
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Cherokee Photography Club Congratulations to the winners of the May competition, "Animals!"
The Cherokee Photography Club me contest, that meeting is held on the Cherokee County Arts Center, 94 No or email him at kbphotoart@comca
Monochromatic Print:
HM Pat Moore "Gator"
1st Eillene Kirk "The King"
2nd Rick Sapp "Backyard Bear"
Digital Projection:
2nd Rick Sapp "Calf in Pleasant Valley Meadow" 88
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HM Pat Moore "
eets on the fourth Monday of the month, and for those participating in the monthly second Monday of the month. Both meetings are 7-9 p.m. and held at the orth St., Canton. For more information, please contact Kim Bates at 770-617-7595 ast.net.
Color Print:
3rd Allen Quandee "Here's Looking at You"
1st Kim Bates "Curious"
"Catch of the Day"
HM Brenda Clapp "Lion King"
HM Rebecca Blackwell "Just Hanging Out" TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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REFERENCE
TOWNE LAKE AREA CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
Ahimsa House helps domestic violence victims 24-hours a day get their pets to safety. 404-452-6248. www.ahimsahouse.org. Anna Crawford Children’s Center, dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect through prevention and intervention services. 678-504-6388. www.cherokeechildadvocates.org. Bend Your Knees, Inc. raises awareness, helps children with pediatric brain tumors. Bob Dixon, 678-922-1560. CASA for Children has programs to increase safety and improve educational, social and emotional functioning of children impacted by abuse. 770-345-3274. www.casacherokee.org. CCHS Thrift Store accepts donations, sells used household items to raise money for Cherokee County Humane Society. 5900 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth. 770-592-8072. Cherokee Family Violence Center offers emergency shelter and crisis intervention, affordable housing, education, support services. 770-479-1703. Spanish 770-720-7050 or 800-334-2836 option 2. www.cfvc.org. Cherokee Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges professional, college, high school, junior high and youth level coaches and athletes to use athletics to impact the world for Christ. Bill Queen, 404-441-3508. www.cherokeefca.org. Cherokee County Humane Society (CCHS) 770-928-5115. admin@cchumanesociety.org. www.cchumanesociety.org. Cherokee FOCUS works to improve lives of children and families through collaborative programs and initiatives. 770-345-5483. www.cherokeefocus.org. Cherokee County Senior Services offers educational, social, leisure and recreational activities for senior citizens. 770-345-5312. 770-345-5320. www.cherokeega.com/senior-services. Cherokee Young Life for high school students, meets Monday nights at Bradshaw Farm clubhouse, 7853 Hickory Flat Highway, Suite 104, Woodstock 30188. 678 653-5707. www.cherokeecounty.younglife.org. Community Veterinary Care provides professional veterinary care for pets whose owners have limited financial means. 678-640-3512. www.communityveterinarycare.com. Companion Animal Connection 678-493-9847. www.adoptapet.com. Everyday Angels offers financial assistance for local families in need. aaeverydayangels@gmail.com. Feed My Lambs, Inc. provides free Christian preschools in the U.S. and around the world. 770-795-9348. office@feedmylambs.net. www.feedmylambs.net. Forever Fed is a mobile food ministry that addresses physical hunger and hopelessness by providing meals and sharing the gospel. www.foreverfed.org. Funds 4 Furry Friends helps those in need with food, spay/neuter and medical attention for their pets. 770-842-8893. www.funds4furryfriends.com. Georgia Animal Project, based in Ball Ground, offers high quality, low cost spay/neuter services for dogs and cats. 770-704-PAWS (7297). www.theanimalproject.org. Give a Kid a Chance – Cherokee sponsors a yearly back-to-school bash, giving children in need filled backpacks to free haircuts. www.giveakidachance.org.
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Goshen Valley Boys Ranch offers a home, care and counsel to young men in the DFCS system. 770-796-4618. www.goshenvalley.org
Green Shelters America animal rescue group. 770-712-4077. GreenSheltersAmerica@gmail.com. www.GreenSheltersAmerica.com. Habitat for Humanity North Central Georgia, 770-587-9697. www.habitat-ncg.org. Healing Hands Youth Ranch offers safe, peaceful environment where abused and at-risk children are paired with rescue horses for hope and healing. 770-633-4451. www.hhyr.org. HopeQuest Ministry Group helps people with life dominating issues related to alcohol abuse, substance abuse and/or sexual brokenness. 678-391-5950. www.hqmg.org. HOPE Center offers support for unplanned pregnancy. 770-924-0864. info@hopectr.com. www.hopectr.com. HOPE Center — Seeds Thrift Store offers men, women & children’s clothing, furniture & other home goods. 770-517-4450. www.seedsthriftstore.com. Life Connection Ministries provides humanitarian relief in the form of wells and greenhouses to impoverished communities. Mission trips offered. 678-234-1798. www.lcm-ga.com. Matthew E. Russell Foundation establishes literacy and libraries in rural areas worldwide. 678-234-1798. www.mattrussell.org. MUST Ministries provides groceries, hot meals, emergency shelter, supportive housing, clothing, employment services, summer lunch and more from five locations in eight counties, including the Canton office at 111 Brown Industrial Pkwy. www.mustministries.org. National Alliance for Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots organization in America working to build better lives for the millions affected by mental illness. www.nami.org. Never Alone provides food and clothing assistance to Cherokee families in need. www.neveralone.org. Next Step Ministries offers a therapeutic day program, Saturday respite, camps and special events for people with special needs. 770-592-1227. www.nextstepministries.net. The North Georgia Angel House Girls Home, residential facility to help girls ages 12-18 learn selfsufficiency. 770-479-9555. www.angelhousega.com. North Georgia Pregnancy Center offers help and care to young girls and women with an unplanned pregnancy or who need counseling. 706-253-6303. www.ngapregnancy.org. Papa’s Pantry, a year-round food ministry that includes the Masters Training Center to help individuals and families in crisis get back on their feet. 770-591-4730. www.papaspantry.org. Pet Buddies Food Pantry provides pet food, supplies, spaying and neutering, and education through community outreach programs to families in need. 678-310-9858. www.petbuddiesfoodpantry.org. Safe Kids Cherokee County offers free child safety seat inspections by appointment. 770-721-7808. www.cherokeesafekidscherokeecounty.org. SmileUp! Charitable Foundation works to get children involved in volunteering with local charities that help children. www.smileupfoundation.org. SERV International operates the House of Hope orphanage in Africa, sponsors a clean water program in Dominican Republic and meal distributions worldwide. Offers mission trips. 770-516-1108. www.servone.org.
Timothy’s Cupboard, a food pantry associated with Timothy Lutheran Church at 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. 770-591-5515 www.timothylutheran.360unite.com/timothyscupboard-home.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation fosters a national dialog toward finding the cause, cure and prevention of ME (myalgic encephalomyelitis), CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. 478-397-5542. www.theblueribbonfoundation.org. Volunteer Aging Council helps raise funds for seniors in Cherokee County. A list of current needs is available. 770-310-3474. www.vac-cherokeega.org.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
AA Meetings Canton: 9:30 a.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 7 p.m. Mondays at Canton First United Methodist, 930 Lower Scott Mill Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Hillside United Methodist, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway. www.aageorgia.org/14c-meetings.html. Abortion Recovery Helping those who have been impacted by abortion. 678-223-3519. Al-Anon and Al-A-Teen Canton: 8 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Clements Episcopal Church, 2795 Ridge Road. Woodstock: 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays Al-Anon at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2208, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-516-3502. American Heart Assoc. - Cherokee Div. 678-385-2013. American Red Cross metro chapter 770-428-2695. A-Typical Parkinson’s Education and Support Group Meets 6:00 p.m. on the first Sunday of each month at Ball Ground UMC, 3045 Canton Hwy. in Ball Ground. Contact Norma Schmidt at 770-366-9585. Caregivers Alzheimers Spousal Support Group Meets: 12:30 p.m. first Tuesday of every month for lunch at Benton House of Woodstock, 3385 Trickum Road. 678-494-4500. woodstockinfo@bentonhouse.com. Celebrate Recovery, Christ-centered recovery program for all types of habits, hurts and hangups. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Woodstock Church of the Nazarene. 770-366-7515. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Mondays at Sixes United Methodist. 770-345-7644. www.sixesumc.org. Meets: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Ministry House, 678-459-2347. www.MinistryHouse.org. Meets: 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton. 678-764-8660. www.celebraterecovery.com. Cherokee County Support Group for people with autoimmune conditions. Meets: 6:30 - 8 pm second Thursday at New Light Baptist Church, 1716 New Light Road, Holly Springs. 404-402-0571, 770-337-0294, jhmom88@comcast.net or christystephenson@msn.com. Cherokee County Special Olympics provides yearround sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. www.cherokeecountyspecialolympics.org. Cherokee Christian Ministerial Association for pastors and ministry leaders. Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. last Wednesday at Dayspring Church, 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock. www.cherokeeministers.org. Diabetes Support Group Meets: 9:30 and 11 a.m. third Tuesday at Emeritus Assisted Living, 756 Neese Road, Woodstock. 770-793-7818.
Georgia Canines for Independence. 404-824-4637. gcidogs@aol.com. www.gcidogs.org. Grace Valley Ministries connects pastors through small group meetings, free counseling and a place to retreat. 727-251-7690. info@gracevalleyministries.org. www.gracevalleyministries.org. Grandparents Raising GRANDchildren Meets: 7:15 p.m. second Tuesdays Transfiguration Catholic Church, Marietta (nursery available). 770-919-9275. Hearing Loss Association of America NW Metro Atlanta chapter for people with hearing loss looking for support and resources, holds free and informative quarterly meetings at the Senior Center on Arnold Mill Road. nwmetroatlantahlaa@gmail.com. La Leche League of South Cherokee Meets: 10 a.m. first Tuesday and 7 p.m. third Tuesday at Bascomb United Methodist Church. 678-315-7686. 770-517-0191.
Male Veteran Support Group
Meets 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdays at First Baptist Church Woodstock in Building "A" Room 260. Light snacks provided. MOMS Club of Woodstock-Towne Lake momsclubofwoodstocktl@gmail.com. www.sites.google.com/site/ momscluboftownelakewoodstock. MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers (birth — K) Meets: 9:30 a.m. second and fourth Mondays at Hillside UMC, 4474 Towne Lake Pkwy. 770-924-4777. Unlimited Possibilities, support group for stroke and brain injury survivors. Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of each month at Kennestone Outpatient Rehab Center. 678-677-2589.
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS
American Business Women’s Association, Cherokee Eagles Charter Chapter. Meets: 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesdays at Dynastic Buffet at the intersection of Canton Highway and Piedmont. 678-493-3618. Cherokee Business Network Meets: 7:45 a.m. Wednesdays at Chick-fil-A, 9728 Highway 92, Woodstock. 770-345-8687. Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Meets: Various times during the year. Schedule at www.cherokeechamber.com. 770-345-0400. Gini@CherokeeChamber.com. Cherokee Toastmasters Club Meets: Noon-1:15 p.m. Wednesdays at the Bank of North Georgia, 200 Parkway 575, Woodstock. www.cherokeetoastmasters.com. The Joy of Connecting Networking for Women Meets: Various times and locations. 678-789-6158. www.xperienceconnections.com/ spotlight/woodstock/. Towne Lake Business Association Meets: 12:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 678-389-3887. www.tlba.org. Towne Lake PowerCore Team Meets: 7-8:30 a.m. Fridays at Freight Kitchen & Tap, 251 E. Main St., Woodstock. 404-816-3377. www.powercore.net. Women of Woodstock Meets: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. first Wednesday of the month at Tavern at Towne Lake. info@womenofwoodstock.com. www.womenofwoodstock.com. Woodstock PowerCore Team Meets: 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-952-5000 ext. 20.
VETERANS SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 316 Meets: 7 p.m. third Thursdays at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 678-662-2366.
Cherokee County Homeless Veteran Program Contact Jim Lindenmayer at Jlindenmayer80@gmail. com or 678-983-7590, or Mike Satterly at 404-680-2412. Woodstock VFW Post 10683 Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesday at Woodstock Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. 404-663-4663.
CIVIC, COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS
AARP Woodstock Chapter is for anyone age 50 and older. Meets: 11:30 a.m. second Tuesdays at Tuscany. Lunch is $15. 770-926-1944. Canton-Cherokee TRIAD/S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Meets: 8:30 a.m. first Tuesday at G.Cecil Pruitt YMCA in Canton (Hall of Fame Room). www.saltcherokee.com. Cherokee County Historical Society 770-345-3288. www.rockbarn.org. Citizen Oversight and Education 678-520-2236. citizenoversighteducation@yahoo.com. Jewish Havurah (Friends) A group of Jewish people who meet for Jewish holidays, special Jewish events and Shabbat dinners. 770-345-8687. Kiwanis Club of Greater Cherokee Meets: 8 a.m. first Monday, at Hillside United Methodist Church, Room 2107, 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock. 678-468-9900. www.greatercherokeekiwanis.org. Pilot Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. second Mondays at IHOP on Hwy. 20. 770-393-1766. Lynda@edgoodwinassociates.com. www.pilotinternational.com. Rotary Club of Cherokee County Meets: 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 770-480-4179. Rotary Club of Towne Lake Meets: Noon Thursdays at Tavern at Towne Lake, 1003 Towne Lake Hills E., Woodstock. www.townelakerotary.com. Rotary Club of Woodstock Meets: 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at IHOP on Highway 92. 678-428-6514. Service League of Cherokee County 770-704-5991. www.serviceleague.net. South Cherokee Optimist Club Meets: 7:30 a.m. every Friday at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-926-3522. Towne Lake Optimist Club Meets: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at Tavern at Towne Lake. 770-715-3375. www.townelakeoptimists.com. Woodstock Jaycees Meets: 7 p.m. first Tuesday and third Thursday at 216 Rope Mill Road. 770-926-8336. Woodstock Junior Woman’s Club www.woodstockjwc.org. Woodstock Lions Club Meets: 7 p.m. second and fourth Monday at New Victoria Baptist, 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. 770-906-2958. Woodstock Preservation Group 770-924-0406. http://preservationwoodstock.com/.
POLITICAL ORGANIZATIONS
Cherokee County Democratic Party Monthly Social: 1 p.m. first Saturday at Canton IHOP. Monthly Business Meeting: 7-9 p.m. second Thursday at Holly Springs Train Depot. Monthly Dinner Social: 6:30 p.m. second Thursday at Las Palmas, Holly Springs. 470-240-1529. www.cherokeedemocrats.com. Charles Ravenscraft, chairman@cherokeedemocrats.com.
Cherokee County Libertarians Meets: 7:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday at the Cherokee County Board of Realtors Training Center 1600 River Park Blvd., Suite 104, Woodstock. www.cherokeelp.org. Cherokee County Republican Party P.O. Box 1267, Woodstock 678-882-0915. www.cherokeecountygop.com. Contact us to verify meetings, time and locations. Follow us on Facebook and twitter. Cherokee County Republican Women affiliated with The Georgia Federation of Republican Women. Meets: Monthly in Woodstock/Canton. 770-592-7811. jkconkey@gmail.com. Grassroots Conservatives of Cherokee Meets: 7- 9 a.m. Fridays at Chick-fil-A, 951 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock by the Outlet Mall. 770-294-0922. Republican Women of Cherokee County 678-520-2236. www.rwccga.com.
RECREATION & HOBBIES
Allatoona Gold Panners. Periodic events, outings. rrkelly@bellsouth.net. Cherokee Amateur Radio Society Meets: 10 a.m. on the second Saturday at William G. Long Senior Center, 223 Arnold Mill Road. www.cherokeehams.com. Cherokee Community Chorale 678-439-8625. www.cherokeechorale.org. Cherokee County Arts Center 94 North St., Canton. 770-704-6244. www.CherokeeArts.org. Cherokee County Master Gardeners 770-721-7803. www.caes.uga.edu/extension/ cherokee/mastergardeners. Cherokee Photography Club www.cherokeepc.org. Cherokee County Saddle Club hosts monthly meetings and group rides. www.cherokeesaddleclub.com. Cherokee Hockey In Line League (CHILL) roller hockey. www.cherokeehockey.org. Cherokee Music Teachers Association 770-720-1701. www.cherokeemta.org. Cherokee Soccer Association 770-704-0187. www.csaimpact.com. Cherokee Youth Lacrosse Association www.cherokeelacrosse.com. Christian Authors Guild Meets: 7-9 p.m. first and third Monday at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock. www.christianauthorsguild.org. Girl Scouts Atlanta Sherry Saunders, ssaunders@gsgatl.org 404-293-3511. www.girlscoutsatl.org. Kingdom Riders, a chapter of the Christian Motorcyclists Association in Canton. Meets: 8 a.m. fourth Saturdays at Family Tradition restaurant in Hickory Flat. Les Marmitons, for men interested in culinary arts. www.lesmarmitons.org. Neighbors and Newcomers of Towne Lake (NNTL) is a social club for residents of 30189 area code. 770-855-9623. www.nntlclub.com. Sons of the American Revolution - Cherokee Meets: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays at the Rock Barn, 638 Marietta Hwy., Canton. www.cherokeechapter.com. William G. Long Senior Center offers activities for seniors at 223 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock. 678-445-6518. TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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COMMUNITY OF FAITH ADVENTIST
Cherokee 101 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-7304 http://cherokee.netadvent.org/ Canton 411 Scott Mill Road, Canton 678-880-0106 www.cantonadventist.org
AME
Allen Temple AME 232 N. Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-6348 www.allentempleame.org St. Paul 390 Crisler St., Canton 770-479-9691 www.stpaulame-canton.org
BAPTIST
Canton Bible Church 94 North St., Canton CantonBibleChurch.org Carmel 2001 Bascomb Carmel Road, Woodstock Cherokee 7770 Hickory Flat Highway, Woodstock 770-720-3399 www.cherokeebaptistchurch.org Cornerstone Community 4206 North Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-439-5108 www.ccchurchonline.org Crossroads Community Church 2317 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-592-7007 Crossroads Primitive 3100 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-710-1068 Faith Community Office: 110 Village Trail, Suite 110, Woodstock Sunday Services: 3075 Trickum Road, Woodstock 770-516-1996 www.faithcommunitychurch.org First Baptist of Woodstock 11905 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-4428 www.fbcw.org First Baptist Canton One Mission Point 770-479-5538 www.fbccanton.org First Baptist Holly Springs 2632 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-5349 www.fbchollysprings.com Harvest 3460 Kellogg Creek Road, Acworth www.hbcga.org Heritage Fellowship 3615 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-479-9415 www.HeritageCanton.com Hickory Road 2416 Hickory Road, Canton GA 30115 www.hickoryroad.org Hillcrest 6069 Woodstock Road, Acworth 770-917-9100 www.hbcacworth.org Hopewell 78 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-5723 www.hopewellbaptist.com
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Mt. Zion 4096 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-479-3324 www.mtzb.org New Victoria 6659 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-926-8448, www.newvicbaptist.org Rising Hills Church 615 Mountain Road, Woodstock www.gorhc.org River Church 2335 Sixes Road, Canton 770-485-1975 www.riveratlanta.org Shallowford Free Will 1686 Shallowford Road, Marietta 770-926-1163 www.shallowfordchurch.com South Cherokee 7504 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-0422 Sutallee 895 Knox Bridge Highway, White 770-479-0101 www.sutalleebaptistchurch.com Toonigh 4999 Old Highway 5, Lebanon www.toonightbaptistchurch.com
CHURCH OF GOD
Bells Ferry 6718 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-592-2956 www.bellsferry.com Canton Church 110 Bluffs Parkway, Canton 678-285-3288 www.cantonchurch.com New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com Sunnyside 2510 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-693-1018 www.sunnysidecog.org Toonigh 4775 Holly Springs Parkway, Canton 770-926-3096 www.toonighcog.org
EPISCOPAL
Christ the Redeemer Charismatic 6488 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton 404-395-5003 www.ctrcec.com
Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Road, Roswell 770-642-0434 www.bethtikvah.com Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St., Roswell 770-641-8630 www.kehillatchaim.org Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Road, Marietta 770-973-3533 www.kolemeth.net
MESSIANIC JEWISH CONGREGATIONS Congregation Beth Hallel 950 Pine Grove Road, Roswell 770-641-3000 www.bethhallel.org
LUTHERAN
Celebration of Grace 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton 770-345-8540 www.celebrationofgrace.org Good Shepherd 1208 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock 770-924-7286 www.gslutheran.org Timothy 556 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-928-2812 www.tlcwoodstock.org
ORTHODOX
St. Elizabeth 2263 East Cherokee Drive, Woodstock 770-485-0504 www.stelizabethga.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Cherokee 1498 Johnson Brady Road, Canton 770-704-9564, www.cherokee-pca.org. Covenant South Annex Rec Center 7545 Main St., Bldg. 200, Woodstock www.cc-pca.org Faith 3655 Reinhardt College Parkway, Canton www.faithpc.us Grace Church 1160 Butterworth Road, Canton 678-493-9869, www.gracecanton.org Heritage 5323 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-3558 , www.heritagepres.com Trinity 1136 Trinity Church Road, Canton www.trinity-presbyterian-church.org
Episcopal Church-Annunciation 1673 Jamerson Road, Marietta 770-928-7916 www.ecamarietta.org
Woodstock 345 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-0074, www.woodstockpcusa.com
Saint Clement’s 2795 Ridge Road, Canton 770-345-6722 www.stclementscanton.org
Our Lady of LaSalette 12941 Sam Nelson Road, Canton 770-479-8923 www.lasalettecanton.com
JEWISH
Chabad Jewish Center 1480 Shiloh Road, NW, Kennesaw 770-400-9255 www.jewishwestcobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Congregation 1349 Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220, Marietta 678-264-8575 www.mynertamid.org Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills, Marietta 770-973-0137 www.etzchaim.net
ROMAN CATHOLIC
St. Michael the Archangel 490 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-516-0009 www.saintmichaelcc.org Transfiguration Catholic Church 1815 Blackwell Road NE., Marietta 770-977-1442 www.transfiguration.com
UNITED METHODIST Ball Ground 3045 Canton Hwy, Ball Ground 770-735-6247 www.ballgroundumc.org
Bascomb 2295 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-926-9755 www.bascombumc.org Big Springs 2066 Sugar Pike Road, Woodstock Canton First 930 Lower Scott Mill Road 770-479-2502 www.cantonfirstumc.org CITY ON A HILL 7745 Main St., Woodstock 678-445-3480 www.coahumc.org Fields Chapel 1331 Fields Chapel Road, Canton 770-479-6030 www.fieldschapel.org Hickory Flat 4056 East Cherokee Drive, Canton 770-345-5969 www.hickoryflat.org Hillside 4474 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-924-4777 www.hillsideumc.org Holly Springs 2464 Holly Springs Parkway 770-345-2883 www.hollyspringsumc.com Liberty Hill 141 Railroad St., Canton 678-493-8920 www.libertyhillumc.org Little River 12455 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-2495 www.littleriverumc.info Mt. Gilead 889 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0837 www.mtgilead-umc.org Sixes 8385 Bells Ferry Road, Canton 770-345-7644 www.sixesumc.org Woodstock 109 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock 770-516-0371
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST
Emerson 4010 Canton Road, Marietta 770-578-1533 www.emersonuu.org
OTHERS
Action Church 271 Marietta Road, Canton 770-345-3030 www.actionchurch.tv Antioch Christian Church 3595 Sugar Pike Road, Canton 770-475-9628 www.antiochcanton.org Antioch Church 9876 Main St., Suite 250, Woodstock 678-494-2193 www.antiochchurch.life Awakening 180 Parkway 575, Suite 140, Woodstock 770-924-4150 www.awakeningwoodstock.com
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road, Acworth 770-917-4964 www.branchesofchrist.com BridgePointe 233 Arnold Mill Road, Suite 400, Woodstock 770-517-2977 www.bridgepointechurch.org Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 2205 Bascomb-Carmel Road, Woodstock 770-529-9572, www.mormon.org Church of the Messiah 4115 Charles Cox Drive, Canton 770-479-5280 www.churchofthemessiah.net Dayspring 6835 Victory Drive, Acworth 770-516-5733 www.dayspring-online.com Dwelling Place Church 110 Londonderry Court #130, Woodstock www.dwellingplacemovement.org Empowerment Tabernacle 507 Industrial Drive, Woodstock 770-928-7478 www.EmpowermentTabernacle.com The Factory 9872 Main St., Woodstock 770-517-7265 www.thefactoryministries.org Faith Family 5744 Bells Ferry Road, Acworth 770-926-4560 www.ffcacworth.com Fivestones Church 1358 Sixes Road, Canton 770-720-2227 www.fivestonesga.com Fresh Springs Worship Center 1910 Eagle Drive, Suite 100, Woodstock 678-557-9841 www.freshspringsworship.com Fuente de Vida (Fountain of Life) 205 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-880-3135 www.fdvida.org God’s Rolling Thunder Latimer Hall, 103 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock www.godsrollingthunder.org His Hands 550 Molly Lane, Woodstock 770-405-2500 www.hishandschurch.com Hope Church 6576 Commerce Parkway, Woodstock www.HopeChurchAtl.com Iglesia Mana Para Siempre, Inc. Bilingual church Spanish & English 452 Milton Drive, Canton 678-880-8750 www.iglesiamanaparasiempre.com Life Bible Church 124 P. Rickman Industrial Drive, Canton lifebiblechurch.com Life Church 300 Adam Jenkins Memorial Drive, Suite 108, Canton 770-847-0170 www.lifechurchcanton.com Ministry House 347 Holly St., Canton 678-459-2347 http://MinistryHouse.org Momentum 659 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock
678-384-4919 www.MomentumChurch.tv New Covenant Bible 1095 Scott Road, Canton 770-479-6412 www.newcovenantcanton.org New Life Church 154 Lakeside Drive, Canton 770-345-2660 www.newlifecanton.com North Atlanta Church 6233 Old Alabama Road, Acworth 770-975-3001 www.northatlantachurch.org Oak Leaf 151 East Marietta St., Canton 678-653-4652 www.oakleafcanton.com Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.prayerandpraise.org Resurrection Anglican 231 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-591-0040 www.rezwoodstock.org Revolution 125 Union Hill Trail, Canton 770-345-2737 www.therevolution.tv Sojourn Woodstock 8534 Main St., Woodstock 770-769-7495 www.sojournwoodstock.com Sovereign Grace 471 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 678-494-2100 www.sgcatlanta.org Thrive Chapel 11303 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-835-5795 www.thrivechapel.com Towne Lake Community 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-445-8766 www.tlcchurch.com Unity North Atlanta 4255 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066 678-819-9100 www.unitynorth.org Victory 4625 Highway 92, Acworth 770-794-7366 www.victoryga.com Woodstock City Church 150 Ridgewalk Parkway, Woodstock 678-880-9092 www.woodstockcity.org Woodstock Christian 7700 Highway 92, Woodstock 770-926-8238 www.woodstockchristian.org Woodstock Church of Christ 219 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8838 www.woodstockchurchofchrist.org Woodstock Church of the Nazarene 874 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock 770-366-7515 www.wcnga.com Woodstock Community Church 237 Rope Mill Road, Woodstock 770-926-8990 www.wcchurch.org TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com
July 2019
ANIMAL/PET SERVICES & SUPPLIES Cherokee County Animal Shelter www.cherokeega-animals.org
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Imbriale Injury Law 678-445-7423 www.imbrialeinjury.com
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Jones Family Law 770-479-1050 www.jonesfamilylawfirm.com
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Nelson Elder Care Law, LLC Inside front 678-250-9355 www.nelsoneldercarelaw.com Tidwell Strimban
678-999-8500 www.tidwellstrimban.com
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Aspen Falls Auto Spa 770-591-3630
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Chloe's Auto Repair 770-575-8800 www.chloesautorepair.com
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Woodstock Quality Paint & Body 66 770-926-3898BEAUTY SALON & SPA BEAUTY/HAIR SALON Michael Christian Salon 770-672-6183
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Polish Nails Spa 678-324-1508
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019
INWDSTK inwdstk.org/events
69
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PTS Networking 678-222-0555 www.ptsnetworking.com
55
Kragor Orthodontics 770-485-8827 www.kragorortho.com
5
Schmooza Palooza 770-345-0400 www.cherokeechamber.com
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Levitt Orthodontics 770-516-6100 www.levittortho.com
Towne Lake Business Association www.tlba.org
55
BREWERY Reformation Brewery www.reformationbrewery.com
54
Goshen Homes 770-345-9535 www.goshenvalley.org/homes
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Next Step Ministries 770-592-1227 www.nextstepministries.net
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CHIROPRACTIC 1, 19
Frankfurt Foreign Automotive 15 678-505-8907 www.FrankfurtForeignAutomotive.com
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Gentle Dental Care and Georgia Dental Implant Center 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com
CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS
AUTOMOTIVE
Christian Brothers Automotive 770-926-4500 www.cbac.com/townelake
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BUSINESS SUPPORT
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Debranski & Associates, LLC 770-926-1957, ext 306 www.debranski.com
Salon Gloss 770-693-6968 www.salongloss.biz
Ribley Chiropractic 770-592-2505 www.ribleychiro.com
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CREDIT UNION Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
19, 39
DENTAL Baird & Baird Family Dentistry 770-517-0444 www.bairdfamilydentistry.com Dentistry for Woodstock 770-926-0000 www.dentistryforwoodstock.com
19, 45
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Park Pediatric Dentistry of Woodstock 35 770-926-9260 www.pediatricwoodstockdentist.com Smile Doctors by Williams Orthodontics 34 770-592-5554 and 770-345-4155 www.smiledoctors.com Towne Lake Family Dentistry Inside Back 770-591-7929 www.townelakefamilydentistry.com EDUCATION/TRAINING/TUTORING Answer Key 678-761-6364 www.answer-key.org
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Giving Care Training Center 678-831-0830 www.givingcareathome.com
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FINANCIAL SERVICES Accounting Connections, LLC O:770-516-5987 C: 770-846-7799 www.accountingconnections.org
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Citadel Professional Services, LLC 770-952-6707 www.citadelwealthcare.com
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Paragon Accounting & Tax Solutions, LLC 19 770-928-7229 FITNESS
1
Club Pilates 770-400-9557 www.clubpilates.com/woodstock
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R2 Total Fitness 678-809-7833 www.r2totalfitness.com
29
State Farm Agent Sheila Geist 770-924-3680 www.sheilageist.net
FUNERAL SERVICES Woodstock Funeral Home and Cremations 19, 25 770-926-3107 www.woodstockfuneralhome.com HOME IMPROVEMENT & REPAIR Bryan Plumbing Services 770-826-5277
5
Budget Blinds 678-540-1615 www.budgetblinds.com/woodstock
17
CFM Electrical Services 678-614-9661
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ClearView Softwash & Pressure Washing 35 770-926-1960 www.clearviewatl.com Coleman Home Services 770-294-9667 www.colemanhomeservices.com
5
REAL ESTATE & RELATED SERVICES 69
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Tomlinson Team, The 770-365-6193 www.thetomlinsonteam.com
Calvary Landscaping & Irrigation 770-720-1727 or 770-827-0346
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3
RPM Landscape & Pavers 770-597-5175 www.rpmlandscapeandpavers.com
33
Broadus Realty Group 404-583-8856 www.broadusrealtygroup.com Coldwell Banker, Mahria Heller O:770-429-0600, C:404-731-5748 www.homesbymahria.cbintouch.com
9
LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE
OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST Thomas Eye Group 770-928-4544 www.thomaseye.com
35
PHOTOGRAPHY Shot from the Heart Photography 75 www.shotfromtheheartphotography.com J. King Images 404-384-2794 www.jkingimages.com
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES
Dr. Fixit, Ph.D. 770-974-2390 www.drfixitphd.com
25
Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
53
Handy Handyman, The 404-316-1490 www.thhmga.com
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Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 www.mrjunk1.com
25
Pike’s Professional Painting 770-516-0045
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Precision Painting & Remodeling 678-234-9668 www.precisionpaintingatlanta.com
15
Southern Air Pros 770-713-0168 www.southernairpros.com
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Towne Plumber 770-257-7503 www.towneplumber.com
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The Townlake Handyman Service, LLC 770-966-2945
INSURANCE
33
Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC 770-720-7733 www.cherokeewomenshealth.com
17
Kurt & Sheila Team, Keller Williams Back Cvr 404-954-2486 www.kurtandsheilateam.com Sarah Terrell/Remax Town & Country 770-928-6525 www.realestateagent.net
37
Soleil Laurel Canyon 678-710-9023 www.soleillaurelcanyon.com
41
Terrell Real Estate/ Remax 770-331-4403 www.toddterrell.com
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RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT
GI Specialists of Georgia 678-834-8126 www.gigeorgia.com
19
Cherokee Outdoor YMCA 770-591-6092 www.ymcaatlanta.org
Innovative Physical Therapy 678-439-1934 www.innovativephysicaltherapy.org
19
Elm Street Cultural Arts Village 678-494-4251 www.elmstreetarts.org
North Georgia Audiology & Hearing Aid Center 770-726-8948 www.YourHearingLink.com Northside Pediatrics 770-928-0016 www.northsidepediatrics.com
19
73
Etowah Eagles Golf Classic 43 etowaheaglesbasketball@gmail.com 37
19
Optimal Performance Medicine 9 678-250-0700 www.optimalperformancemedicine.com Plastic Surgery Center of the South 40 770-421-1242 www.plasticsurgerycenterofthesouth.net Rausch Family Practice 678-384-7305 www.judithrauschmd.com
17
5
Suntex Boat Club 770-331-2040 www.suntexboatclub.com
Inside front
RESTAURANTS/FOOD Smallcakes — A Cupcakery 678-324-1910
7
RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Neighborhood Nest, The 770-485-5898 www.theneighborhoodnestga.com
45
SENIOR LIVING/ SERVICES Oaks at Towne Lake Cover, 11, 48, 49 770-592-2195 www.oaksseniorliving.com
TOWNELAKER | July 2019
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Woodstock and TowneLaker. We look forward to serving you, our readers and advertisers, every month. Thank you for your continued support and participation in making this truly your community magazine.
Front row, from left, Laura Latchford, Christie Deese, Patty Ponder and Jackie Loudin. Back row, Michelle McCulloch, Denise Griffin, Candi Hannigan, Karen Flaig, Katie Beall and Katherine Amick. Photo by Beth Fornuto.
At Aroundabout Local Media, we believe the world functions at the community level: diverse groups of people living in close proximity, sharing commonality of culture, values and local pride, developing safety nets for those in need, and helping each other to live richer lives. It is our heartfelt desire to contribute to the fabric that helps make a community happen. Through our magazines, we aim to provide everyone in the communities we serve with uplifting, interesting information about the community they are proud to call home. We encourage you to send us your photos, ideas, stories or anything else you think the community would like to know about. It’s your community. It’s your magazine. Look on page 6 for our contact information.
TowneLaker Distribution Map Circulation: 16,400
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TOWNELAKER | July 2019