Around Canton Letter From the Editor
One of the goals I have for each issue is to share stories of our neighbors who are doing great things, small or large deeds, to help their neighbors and friends, or folks they’ve never met who live around the world. Izetta Stoner is one of these inspirations. At 93, the Woodstock resident crochets an average of two hats per day for a nonprofit called The Encouragement Project, which sends hats and scarves throughout the United States and around the world. It’s tough to give an update on the number of hats she’s produced so far, because it changes daily. At press time, our best count is more than 2,800. Apparently Izetta’s story prompted a reader in Holly Springs, Jennifer, to contact The Encouragement Project to learn how to help. Jennifer leads a group of knitters/ crocheters at her church, and the members were looking for new places to donate. In addition to giving 100 items, the group is helping with other projects for the nonprofit. “As a result of the article, we have also heard from one other lady who wants to volunteer in an elder care home,” said Stephanie Cervantes, founder of The Encouragement Project. “I have gotten her in touch with a place in Canton.” Another reader decided to volunteer at the Circle of Friends coffee shop at The Circuit, after reading Susan Schulz’s February article about the nonprofit, which opened the coffee shop to offer job opportunities and a level of independence to young adults with disabilities. I am sure - at least, I hope - there are more stories like these that I haven’t heard about. If you’ve been inspired by the people you meet on our pages, I’d love to hear from you. It’s inspiring to me to know what we do each month is making a difference in the community. This month’s kindness challenge will help make a difference, especially considering the new libraries open in Canton.
July
Share a Book or Two. If you have a favorite book, consider passing it along to a friend, or someone you know who loves to read. Find a Little Free Library in your community and make regular visits to keep the shelves stocked. Check www.littlefreelibrary.org to find one, or look for Candy Baylor’s article on the subject in our May 2021 issue.
What’s Coming
Around Canton’s parent company, Aroundabout Local Media, is launching a new magazine, Around Kennesaw, in August! Our team is excited to serve our Kennesaw neighbors with a full-color, 60-page publication that highlights the news and events in the community, and supports the local businesses that make Kennesaw great. Please contact Jennifer Coleman at jen@aroundaboutmagazines.com or call 678-279-5502 for more information.
What’s New
Canton has eight Little Free Libraries, thanks to city councilor Shawn Tolan and sponsors, including Hasty Elementary teachers Cristin Bell, Justine Bekebrede and Beth Cronan, Mark and Angela Whitaker, the Dickerson family, the Farrar family, Dr. Susan Buice and Becky Buice, and Alison Berkshire-Hendrix. Little Free Library (littlefreelibrary.org) is a nationwide book sharing movement that builds community, inspires readers and expands book access for all. Pictured is the Little Free Library in Cannon Park. Others are located in Harmon Park, Etowah River Park, Burge Park, McCanless Park, Heritage Park, Boling Park and Brown Park (previously installed by the Rotary Club).
Society Boutique has opened at 1810 Cumming Highway, Suite 715, Canton. The Alpharetta-based retail store will feature a variety of clothes, jewelry, home accessories and candles geared toward ages 20-55. www.shopsocietyboutique.com. On Facebook. The Be Brand, Whitetail Coffee Co. and Whole Soul Shop have opened at The Mill on Etowah. See Page
24 for Cherokee Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting photos. www.etowahmill.com.
What’s Coming
Candi Hannigan is the executive editor of Aroundabout Local Media. She has lived in Cherokee County since 1987. Send your comments or questions to Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com.
4
AROUND CANTON | July 2021
During this summer, the following improvements will be made to Harmon Park, with funds from the community development block grant: bleachers will be rebuilt; roof and siding will be replaced; new picnic tables will be added: playground improvements will be made, and new, efficient fixtures will be installed in the restrooms.
