AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Contents
Contributors
July 2021
34 Judy Abbott
12 Tommy Allegood
KSU Executive MBA Program
32 Ryan Blythe 36
On the Cover
Jennifer Bonn
24 Wayne Dennard 37 Greg Fonzeno
Earn your MBA from a nationally and globally ranked program here in Cobb County. With three MBA format options available at Kennesaw State University, choose the one that works best for you.
18 Jessica Forrester 27 Malinda Howe
16 Tiffany Hughes 47 Amber Irizarry
Pages 28 & 29
26 Rob Macmillan
Cover photo by KSU /Jason Getz
20 Abbie Parks
16
14 Susan Schulz
Fire Up the Grill!
Impress your friends and family, and take the pressure off summer cookouts with these new grilling recipes.
18
Stay and Play!
Offering staycation ideas for aviation fans (left) and others enjoying summer near home.
30 Elisabeth Stubbs 22 Kim Wigington
In Every Issue
4 Around Acworth 8 Local News
20 Acworth History 23 Celebrations
26 Rob’s Rescues
34 Growing Gardeners
38 Downtown Dining Guide 40 Senior Events
41 Acworth Parks
42 Library Events
44 Community Calendar 46 School News
50 Cobb Photographic Society 52 Allatoona Lake Map
43 2
54 Directory of Advertisers
First-Day Fears
These fun reads will help ease the kiddos’ back-to-school jitters.
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
It’s a known fact—BLONDE rules summer hair fashions. This year PERMS kick up the volume! At élon Salon you can have the best of both worlds—radiant BLONDE colour, from sun-inspired highlights to bombshell platinum hues, combined with voluminous texture. Ask about our revolutionary Acacia Colour Friendly Perming System. It offers highly personalized results that combine beautifully with our renowned colour services. Enriched with Vitamin E, this service leaves hair satiny-soft and in great condition. Photos: Hair cuts, colour, and styles by élon Salon.
770.427.8698 • elonsalon.com • 695 Piedmont Rd • Marietta • facebook: elonsalon | instagram: @elonsalon1 AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Around Acworth Letter From the Editor
Summer is in full swing, and that means cookouts, pool days, time on the lake, frequent visits to the park and vacations, for some. Our family has spent many days outside and, recently, the Bealls installed a play set. Growing up, we called them swing sets, but these apparatuses have evolved well beyond your standard two swings, a ladder and a basic slide. Now they include forts, climbing walls, kitchens, multiple slides and more. My husband certainly earned his Father’s Day gifts after assembling the monstrosity. Due to our frequent trips to surrounding playgrounds, our 3½-yearold asked, “Why are there no friends here to play with me?” Apparently, she thinks all playgrounds are open to the public and always should be full of “friends” (aka any kids) for her to play with. Don’t worry, play dates are in the works, and we’ll still make trips to our favorite nearby parks. If you’re new to the area and are looking for community parks to visit, flip to Page 41 for a listing of Acworth parks. If your little ones are curious about how the playgrounds stack up, check out our playground review from my sassy tot in the August 2020 issue, available under the archives tab at www.aroundacworthmagazine.com. July is national grilling month, so Tiffany Hughes put together easy and mouth-watering recipes on Page 16 that are sure to impress at your next cookout. Speaking of backyard fun, if your summer plans don’t include a vacation, consider becoming a tourist here at home. We compiled a list of staycation ideas on Page 18 that the entire family will enjoy. If that list doesn’t suit you, maybe you would enjoy a trip to the Butterfly House at Smith-Gilbert Gardens, which is highlighted in this month’s Growing Gardeners feature on Page 34. For others, summer is the time to enjoy reading. History buffs won’t want to miss Abbie Parks’ article about the evolution of Acworth’s Main Street on Page 20. For our bookworm friends, North Cobb Regional Library has some fun activities happening this summer (Page 42). With all this talk about summer, I hate to remind you that it’s time to start back-to-school planning. Our library friends helped us out with book recommendations on Page 43, to help calm those first-day jitters. Speaking of books ...
Kindness Challenge of the Month
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.
Katie Beall Katie Beall is managing editor and title editor of Around Acworth. Send your comments or questions to Katie@ AroundaboutMagazines.com.
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AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
What’s New
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen opened June 16 at 3462 Baker Road in Acworth. The city celebrated the opening of the fast-food restaurant, which specializes in fried chicken, with a June 23 ribbon-cutting. For more information, visit www.popeyes.com, or call 678-402-6237.
Charlie’s Angels Movers recently moved its headquarters to downtown Acworth, at 4489 Acworth Industrial Drive, where the company is planning a ribboncutting ceremony for 11:30 a.m. July 9. Charlie’s Angels Movers is a full-service, licensed, bonded and insured moving company. www.charliesangelsmovers.com.
What’s Coming
Heritage at Acworth held a groundbreaking ceremony last month to celebrate construction starting on the mixeduse development across from the pedestrian bridge at 4318 Southside Drive. The development will feature 25 new luxury townhomes in addition to retail, restaurant and professional spaces in downtown Acworth. For more information, visit www.jwcollectionhomes.com/heritage-at-acworth, or call 770-809-6022.
Kudos
Lt. David St. Onge, a
detective for the Acworth Police Department, was recognized last month by the Cobb County Law Enforcement Association for using innovative investigative techniques to help solve a difficult case. The award was presented to St. Onge, left, by Capt. Stanley Melton.
Acworth resident April Estes recently released her second and third books simultaneously, “Sweet Mimosa,” which contains 52 devotions, and “Audacious Women of the Bible,” which covers 20 women throughout the Scriptures. For more information, visit www.aprilestes.com. Congratulations, April!
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Around Acworth | Around Canton | Around Kennesaw Around Woodstock | TowneLaker www.AroundaboutLocalMedia.com
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AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
Publisher Aroundabout Local Media, Inc. www.aroundaboutlocalmedia.com ALM President Patty Ponder 770-615-3322 Patty@AroundaboutMagazines.com Director of Marketing Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 Jen@AroundaboutMagazines.com Executive Editor Candi Hannigan 770-615-3309 Candi@AroundaboutMagazines.com Managing Editor Katie Beall 770-852-8481 Katie@AroundaboutMagazines.com
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Around Acworth, a publication of Aroundabout Local Media, Inc., is a monthly community magazine. The magazine’s mission is helping local businesses grow and prosper by offering affordable advertising opportunities in a quality publication that provides positive, relevant information to our readers. It distributes a total of 17,000 free copies. Approximately 16,600 are directly mailed to homes and businesses, and an additional 400 are placed in racks around the community. Around Acworth also has many digital viewers of the magazine online each month. Around Acworth welcomes your comments, stories and advertisements. The deadline is the 10th 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. Around Acworth 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 2021 Around Acworth
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Volume 5, Issue 12
America’s Community Magazine
I’M PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE
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through a very smooth closing. Any questions I had were answered quickly and clearly. I appreciate all they did to help me find the right loan for me. I highly recommend Bay Equity to anyone looking to purchase a home or refinance the one they already have.
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Equal Housing Lender. This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Restrictions may apply. Rates may not be available at time of application. Information and/or data are subject to change without notice. All loans are subject to credit approval. Not all loans or products are available in all states. Bay Equity LLC, 770 Tamalpais Drive Suite 207, Corte Madera, CA 94925; NMLS ID#76988. Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee #39887. NMLS consumer access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org BECH-210607-1.0
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Local News
Aviation Park
New Mechanics in Motion exhibit open at Aviation Park
The Town Center Community Alliance recently installed its first educational exhibit, Mechanics in Motion, at Aviation Park in Kennesaw. Encircling the park’s aircraft, the exhibit is a permanent installation with eight panels describing aspects of flight, aircraft design and materials. This exhibit is the first educational installation of the Taking to the Skies program, which already includes public art and a 1964 Beechcraft Musketeer A23 aircraft display. The exhibit also includes digital content, curriculum and teachers guides that can be used by school districts, home schooling individuals or any park visitors. To learn more about the Aviation Park, visit towncentercid. com/project/aviation-park.
New Help Desk Gives Second Chance Cobb County is working to create innovative ways to help residents who’ve historically been forgotten or disregarded. The Cobb Second Chance Desk is the first effort of its kind in Georgia. This resource will help eligible people clear their records. In Georgia, 4.3 million people have criminal history – about 40% of working-age adults. The desk will help remove barriers that keep nonviolent people from being productive members of society. It will help with employment, financial aid, housing and other vital services. The Cobb Second Chance Desk will be a help desk housed in the Cobb Circuit Defender’s Office and staffed by Georgia Justice Project personnel to streamline the criminal record clearing process for those who were arrested in Cobb and are eligible by law for record clearing. The desk opened to the public June 25. Online appointments are available at cobbcounty.org/second-chancedesk or by calling 404-834-8604. This initiative is a partnership among the Cobb Circuit Defender’s Office, Cobb District Attorney’s Office, Cobb Solicitor General’s Office and the Georgia Justice Project. 8
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
Help Women in Need
Give a Fresh Start (GAFS) is an annual community service project committed to giving help and hope to women in Cobb County. Since 2018, the organization has provided more than 700 feminine hygiene items to local nonprofits serving women in need. This year, GAFS is partnering with the Family Life Restoration Center, with the goal to provide a minimum of 500 items. The official drive will be held through July 16. Visit https://giveafreshstart. wixsite.com/home/take-action to donate items, purchase a shirt, give a financial donation or send a message to a woman in need.
Michael Brantley Named Director
Cobb County Manager Jackie McMorris has appointed Michael Brantley as the director of Cobb PARKS. He is filling the position previously held by Jimmy Gisi, who was recently named deputy county manager. Brantley graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Recreation Administration, beginning his career serving in Cherokee County, in both the recreation and operation divisions. In 2017, he left to become the operations division manager for Cobb PARKS, a position he has held for the past three years. He and his wife, Tiffani, have been married seven years, and they have a dog, Saki. In his spare time, Brantley enjoys golfing, fishing and cheering on his favorite sports teams.
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Local News Kids in the Kitchen Camp
The Cobb County Extension Office’s virtual three-day Kids in the Kitchen Foodie Camp will run 3-6 p.m. July 20-22. Youth of all ages are welcome, but should have parental or adult supervision while participating. The camp will feature two-three recipes per day that can easily be made at home. Space is limited for each session. For more information, or to register, visit bit.ly/foodiecamp.
Health and Substance Abuse Help Available
Someone Cares is a nonprofit community-based organization that helps eliminate barriers to health services for those who experience disparities in primary care. The organization provides holistic health and wellness care, including sexual health screening and treatment, intensive mental health and substance abuse counseling and treatment. Someone Cares offers opioid programs and services, as well as drug and alcohol testing services. For more information, visit s1catl.org.
The Art House’s annual fundraiser, Live at Logan Farm Park, was a success.
Art House Happenings Acworth Arts Alliance held its annual fundraiser, Live at Logan Farm Park, May 22. Proceeds from the event went toward scholarships for high school students pursuing visual arts. This year’s scholarship recipients are Rachel Shannon from Cornerstone Preparatory Academy and Anneka Klingman from North Cobb Christian School. The Art House also awarded a scholarship to the Acworth Youth Art Enrichment Fund. This fund will make scholarships available for Expanding Horizons and art camps through the Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department. The Art House’s current exhibit, Acworth Treasures, runs through July 31. Midnight on July 15 is the submission deadline for the juried exhibit, which will run Aug. 7-Sept. 25. Submissions are open to artists who can hand-deliver their works. A submission fee of $25 for Acworth Arts Alliance member artists, and $35 for non-member artists, is required for this exhibit. These fees will be used to fund cash awards for the exhibit. Visit acworthartsalliance.org/guidelines for a schedule of events or to submit a submission form and pay the submission fee. Images of your submissions should be emailed to: acworthartsalliance@gmail.com. The next session of classes at the Art House begins July 12. Visit acworthartsalliance.org/classes for a complete list of upcoming classes/workshops and to register. Masks are now optional for teachers and participants.
Upcoming Public Meetings CobbTV makes it easy to stay up-to-date on everything happening in the Cobb County Government. Many public meetings and hearings are broadcast live and are available on YouTube and Video On Demand. To learn more, visit cobbcounty.org/cobbtv. • Board of Commissioners regular meeting, 9 a.m. July 13 10
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
Scholarships were presented to Jordan Gonzales, left, of Acworth Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department, and Rachel Shannon from Cornerstone Prep at the fundraiser from the Art House’s Cathy Green and Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood.
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AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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A Message from the
A
s we celebrate our nation’s independence this month, it is the perfect time to reflect on the price of freedom. In Acworth, we love our veterans, and have dedicated a special place on Lake Acworth to honor them. The Veterans Memorial at Patriots Point pays tribute to all the men and women who have served our country. At Patriots Point, you will find the American flag, surrounded by the service flags of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, raised upon a concrete dome. This structure is surrounded by a walkway with engraved pavers. The memorial is home to the city’s Veterans Day celebration and Memorial Day ceremonies. At each of these yearly events, paver stones that have been dedicated by members of our community, in honor of their loved ones who have served, are presented. I purchased a paver for my dad, Capt. James Allegood. He served in the U.S. Navy and was part of the World War II D-Day invasion. His paver stone can be found at Patriots Point, and I think of him, and his brothers and sisters in arms, whenever I am there. If you have a loved one who served in the armed forces that you would like to honor with a paver, visit www.acworthparksandrec.org to purchase a stone for them. It is a meaningful gift that honors the sacrifices of those who have served. In addition to the annual Fourth of July concert and fireworks, Acworth will continue to honor our country by hosting the Eyes of Freedom: Lima Company Memorial in Tanyard Creek Overlook at the Acworth Community Center. It will be on display for free July 29-31. The memorial exhibition features 23 life-sized portraits of the fallen Marines and Navy Corpsmen of Lima Company. Their boots stand at the base of their portraits, creating a tangible representation of their sacrifice. You do not want
to miss this powerful experience. We would like to thank our partners at Georgia Funeral Care for co-hosting this exhibition, and we’re thankful for the contributions from Cobb Travel and Tourism and Hummingbird Hideaway that helped make this event possible. While we celebrate our freedoms, remember our partner organizations, which are made up of those who served in the military and continue to serve our community. The Ron Asby North Cobb American Legion Post 304 moved into its location on Main Street in 2012. Over the years, they have been a great partner by assisting with various city events and providing support and resources to our Veterans. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5408 also takes part in our Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and fosters camaraderie among veterans of overseas conflicts through social and service events in our community. We are blessed that Acworth is home to both of these organizations, and we encourage all veterans in the area who are seeking connection and support to reach out to these organizations. Visit American Legion Post 304 at www.post304.org, and VFW Post 5408 at www.vfw5408.org. With summer travel and holiday celebrations, we know that properly planning your commute can make all the difference. As the redirection and the expansion of the Highway 92 project continues, you can find the latest updates on the Acworth Power and Public Works Facebook page. Updates will be posted on traffic shifts, to help you get to where you need to go in the best way possible. God bless, Tommy
Tommy Allegood was elected to Acworth’s city council in 2000 and has served as mayor since 2002. He is a community builder who is purposed to make it count!
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AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Experiences Foundation
A local version of Make-A-Wish meets Big Brothers, Big Sisters. BY SUSAN BROWNING SCHULZ
After dealing with their challenges of loss and heartbreak, Chad Blake and his wife, Cheryl, decided to make it their mission to help others. They co-founded Experiences Foundation, and through the organization provide experiences that are open for all individuals and families who have suffered a tough break in life.
Experiences Foundation recently delivered recess bags to Avery Elementary students. 14
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
“We think of ourselves as a local mini-Make-aWish meets Big Brothers, Big Sisters,” Blake said. “We offer a wide variety of events and programs, helping those who are struggling in our own circle of friends and those recommended through other community nonprofits. We have been doing ‘experiences’ that include mission trips for over 15 years, but made the foundation an official nonprofit in 2018. We want to make dreams come true, while lending a helping hand to do so.” Prior to the global pandemic shutdown, many experiences offered were sports-oriented. For example, they took special-needs clients and staff of Next Step Ministries in Woodstock to an Atlanta Braves game, which included lunch and snacks. “Everyone had such a wonderful time, and the staff was very appreciative of all [Experiences Foundation] did to make it run smoothly,” said Lori Baker, Next Step’s director. Without sporting events, the foundation made adjustments and got creative in serving the community. On one recent project, Experiences supplied an outdoor classroom with recess bags and picnic tables to enhance the students’ recess at Avery Elementary. Experiences also organized a drive-by parade to honor Aden Martinez, a young boy with a brain tumor. “I am at a loss for words,” his mother Sandy said after the event. “Thank you doesn’t sound like
Left, special-needs clients and staff of Next Step Ministries enjoying a Braves game through Experiences before the pandemic. Below, Chad Blake with Charles and Doris Beavers.
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enough. Tonight was so, so special and something our family will never forget. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to every single person who took time out of their evening to bring a smile to Aden’s face. He was amazed, and we were truly blown away by everyone’s kindness. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!” The goal of the long parade with vehicles of all kinds, even boats (on trailers, of course), was to give Aden a joyful reprieve from his battle with cancer. The continuous flow of the parade inspired quite a flow of tears. For regular updates on Aden’s health, join Aden’s Army on Facebook. Another family, the Beavers, lost everything in a house fire. Experiences Foundation stepped in to restore what was lost. “My mind was racing on how we were going to have Christmas,” Doris Beavers said. “[Experiences] showed me how God showed up and showed out. I am very thankful for the dresser, TV, and other household items. My life is not great, but it’s better thanks to [Experiences].” The blessings Experiences Foundation has delivered to hurting members of the community are countless. To learn more about the foundation, visit www. experiencesfoundation.org, or call 678-386-4513. Save the date for Experiences’ golf tournament fundraiser Oct. 21. Early registration is $100 per player.
7www.shrivermechanical.com 70-975-1927
Susan Schulz is a Bible teacher and mentor who lives and plays on the Etowah River in Canton. Connect with her on social media or at susanbrowningschulz.com.
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Fire Up the BY TIFFANY HUGHES
Herbed butter on French bread ready for the grill.
Herbed Butter Ingredients
• 1 stick butter, softened • 1 cup fresh basil, oregano, thyme, etc. • ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Directions
Place the herbs in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Remove any remaining stems. Mix in the butter, and then add the lemon juice. Combine until the herbs are so well incorporated that the butter turns a greenish color. Use immediately, and store leftovers in the fridge. Note: Dried herbs can be used; just reduce the amount to 1-2 tablespoons.
Grilled Cabbage Steaks Ingredients
• 1 large head of green cabbage, sliced horizontally in ½-inch slices • Montreal steak seasoning • garlic powder • black pepper • Two pinches dry chicken or beef bouillon powder per cabbage slice • pinch of ground red pepper per steak • extra virgin olive oil
Directions
Remove the core of the cabbage, using a small paring knife. Remove the veins on the outside of the cabbage before slicing. Drizzle the olive oil on one side and place that side down in your grilling pan. Drizzle oil across the top and sprinkle with Montreal steak seasoning, garlic powder and chicken bouillon. Grill the cabbage for at least 5 minutes, and turn when the edges begin to brown. After flipping, repeat with oil and seasonings, but add the red pepper. Do not turn again. Grill on the back side until the middle of the steak is fork tender. Taste, to check for salt, then remove and serve with balsamic vinegar, if desired. 16
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
Summertime always evokes thoughts of backyard barbecues and cookouts, but grills can be used to prepare an entire dinner, from appetizers, to the main course, sides and dessert. Give yourself a break from the kitchen, dust off your grilling apron and take yourself outside to cook. Who knows, you might even become the new backyard barbecue king.
Breads
No matter what you’re grilling, a cast-iron skillet and sheet pan are helpful, allowing you to cook smaller items that might fall through the grates. Cast iron distributes heat evenly and serves as an excellent warmer when your burgers, hot dogs, etc. are finished, but you’re not yet ready to eat. A quick, easy snack idea is herbed French bread. You can either slice an entire loaf threefourths of the way through, or cut it into thick slices. If using a whole loaf, coat both sides of the slices with the herbed butter, then wrap in foil and grill until hot, approximately 10 minutes. If using individual slices, thinly coat the bottoms with mayonnaise to make them extra crispy, then spread the herbed butter on the top. Place on a heavy sheet pan and grill on the upper rack until the butter is melted. Sprinkle the slices with fresh parmesan just before removing from the grill.
Veggies, Please!
Cabbage is one vegetable that holds up well when grilled, especially if it is cooked in a pan. One large head of green cabbage, sliced in halfinch to 1-inch slices with the core removed, will serve three to four people. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with seasonings — Italian, seafood, garlic, etc. An alternative to olive oil and seasoning is Italian dressing, balsamic vinegars or flavored oils. If the cabbage steak falls apart, don’t panic. The flavoring still will be there; simply cut the cabbage tendrils into a more manageable size and serve them with pride. Other vegetable steaks work just as well. Slice yellow squash or zucchini lengthwise, remove the seeds, and follow the same directions. If you normally peel squash before eating it, leave the skin on, to help hold it together while cooking. Select corn that is fresh, with firm kernels, then remove a couple of layers of the husk, leaving
GRILL! some on the corn, making sure the narrow end still is covered. The remaining layers will steam the kernels while cooking, and protect them from burning. Place the corn directly on the grate or on a cast-iron sheet pan. Cook for approximately 15 minutes, turning occasionally. The corn will become more opaque when it is done. The husks will brown and pull slightly away. Remove the husks as soon as the corn comes off, but be careful, as they will be hot. While the corn is still hot, spread with herbed butter, or butter and Old Bay.
Pizza
When the vegetables you’ve chosen are almost ready, throw a store-bought, prepared pizza crust on the grill to heat. Then, smear with softened cream cheese, add the veggies with some shredded cheddar, and you’ve got a great appetizer or meal.
From the Sea
Place a piece of fish on top of thin-sliced zucchini or yellow squash, toss raw shrimp on top, with spinach leaves and lemon juice, or put a piece of salmon atop thin asparagus stalks, season as desired, then tent the food with foil. Place on the upper rack of the grill and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. Cooked quinoa or lentils also are really tasty as a bed for the fish.
Time for Dessert
When everyone at your cookout gets ready for dessert, slice a pound cake (or angel food cake) and spread a thin layer of butter on both sides, then throw it in your grill pan and heat until both sides turn golden. Serve the slices in bowls with scoops of ice cream, topped with heated raspberry or strawberry jam, and whipped cream. Your guests will be too impressed with your dessert to notice the pound cake isn’t homemade.
Grilled Carrot Slaw Ingredients • • • • • • •
6 large carrots, peeled ½ teaspoon garlic salt ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, divided ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar ¼ cup brown sugar ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Directions
Using a vegetable peeler, make long thin strips with the carrots. Heat a skillet with 2 tablespoons of oil, setting the rest aside. Add the carrots and garlic salt and toss to coat. Grill until the carrots start to wilt a little, stirring frequently. While the carrots are cooking, mix the remaining oil, vinegar, brown sugar, ginger and sesame seeds in a small bowl. After the carrots are removed from the heat, toss with the liquid mixture and serve.
Italian Veggies Ingredients • • • • • •
1 bag baby carrots or 4 cups thick-sliced whole carrots 1 pound russet potatoes, cubed (about 8 cups) 16 ounces baby bella mushrooms, quartered 1 large sweet onion, diced 1 cup Italian dressing, or more to taste salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the carrots, potatoes and mushrooms together, then toss in the dressing. Place in a large skillet, cover, and grill for 10 minutes, then stir in the onion. If the pan is dry, add more dressing. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add half a cup of water or chicken stock, and scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Taste for salt and pepper, then cook until the sauce is hot.
Note: Asparagus stalks or Brussels sprouts are also good cooked this way.
Happy cooking!
Tiffany Hughes is an Acworth resident and works for the Booth Western Art Museum. Contact her at creativecook11@yahoo.com.
Italian veggies AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Be a Tourist 1. In Your Own Backyard BY JESSICA FORRESTER
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming! Even so, it is important to take a break from work to spend quality time with your family. If you want to avoid traveling, due to COVID-19, or if you are simply looking for a unique experience close to home, here are six staycation ideas in Cobb County and surrounding areas that will help make this a summer to remember!
Wake in a New Place Treasure Hunt Tree House
Need a change in scenery? Search for “Treasure Hunt Tree House in Metro Atlanta” on Airbnb for more information, and to browse through the photos of this special getaway in Kennesaw. The multi-story tree house is complete with fun features, including a treasure hunt activity, and the two structures joined by a rope bridge.
Lake Allatoona Inn
Located on the lakefront, the restored Victorian inn is surrounded by 16 acres of land and nearby historical sites. The grounds are used for grazing horses, as well as special events held on the property. For more information about this quaint bed-and-breakfast, visit lakeallatoonainn.com.
Splendor Oaks Tiny-Living Glamping
Splendor Oaks Eco-Farm Homestead, located on Bells Ferry Road, is home to three unique glamping getaways, all less than 250 square feet. Guests can reserve the Stay Bird Bus, La Bella Bell Tent or Eden Treehouse through Airbnb. The owners, Kurtis and Dayana Cagle, have created an environment where everyone will feel at home. The lower level of the main house has a guest lounge, with various amenities, and a “lake life” fun truck outfitted with kayaks, floats, fishing poles, a cooler and a lake pass for nearby Lake Allatoona, which can be reserved at an additional charge. Visit www.splendoroaks.com/airbnbs to see photos of the property, along with the links to the Airbnb listings.
2.
Splendor Oaks Owners, Kurtis and Dayana Cagle, stand on the steps to Eden Treehouse with their two boys. 18
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
Make an Escape Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are immersive games in which players work together to find clues, solve riddles and puzzles, and accomplish tasks to progress through the game and reach the goal. There are many escape rooms to choose from in Marietta, including Urban Escape Games, The Escapery and Project Escape. Each escape room features a different theme, holds unique secrets and puzzles, and is a new adventure. Immerse yourself and up to five others in a whole other world with Cobb County Parks Escape Rooms. Put your teamwork, puzzle-solving and trivia expertise to the test in hour-long escape rooms throughout the year: The Emporium, Prison Break and Merry Mystery. Call 678-978-2557 to register over the phone, or book online at https://cobbparksescaperooms.com. Open Fridays and Saturdays. Located at Oregon Park Annex at 135 Old Hamilton Road, Marietta.
Jim Lawrence, left, a Vintage Flights pilot with Randy Dotson after flying in one of Vintage Flights’ World War II training planes, the AT-6 Texan, 2018.
3.
Walking Tours Ghosts of Marietta.
Join the residents that chose to never leave on a guided tour of a past that is deep in tradition, history and quality of life. Tour guides will excite you with tales of departed spirits and mysterious residents as you walk through Marietta’s historic streets, and, if you’re lucky, you will experience them as well. Visit ghostsofmarietta.com to book a tour, Fridays through Sundays year-round.
Historic Haunts.
Take a trip back in time through downtown Canton, and learn about its history and haunts on a 2-hour guided walking tour that begins and ends at the gazebo. The family-friendly tours can be booked through the fall, and are sure to captivate and surprise you. Visit https://cantonhaunts.com for more information.
Downtown Tour Series.
Learn more about downtown Woodstock by taking advantage of the free, themed walking tours exploring various aspects of the area. The guided tours are offered on the last Thursday of the month, March-September, and each month’s tour covers a different topic. RSVP online for a tour, beginning two weeks before the tour date, at https:// wdstkbrandstore.square.site. For more information, call the Woodstock Visitors Center at 770-924-0406.
4.
Take to the Skies Biplane Rides.
Operating off the patio of the Downwind Restaurant in the Dekalb-Peachtree Airport, Atlanta Air Tours, formerly Biplane Rides Over Atlanta, offers daytime and sunset flights with memorable views. Experience the adventure of open-cockpit flying while soaring over notable attractions, such as the downtown Atlanta skyline, Stone Mountain, Lake Lanier and Ted Turner Field. 770-393-3937. Visit https://biplane.com for details and to book a flight.
Hot Air Balloon Rides.
Balloon Atlanta is a hot air balloon tour agency that provides unforgettable experiences, from skimming across a lake to soaring thousands of feet in the sky. Visit balloonatlanta.com for more information and to book a ride.
Vintage Flights Aviation Experiences.
Based at the Cherokee County Airport, between Canton and Ball Ground, Vintage Flights offers unique aviation and sightseeing experiences in authentic World War II era aircraft. The aircraft are dual-flight-control equipped, so you can take the controls if you are feeling daring. Vintage Flights provides unforgettable experiences and definitely will give you a new view of Cherokee County! Visit https://vintageflights.com for more information. AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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This Month in
Acworth History
The Evolution of Main Street BY ABBIE PARKS
Acworth’s present-day Main Street traces the path of the Peachtree Trail, the Cherokee Indian trade route of the late 1700s that connected the Cherokee capital of New Echota and the Creek Indian trading post and fort, Standing Peachtree. By the end of the 18th century, white encroachment shrank Cherokee holdings to North Georgia, and small areas of Alabama, Tennessee and North Carolina. The land grab was exacerbated by the 1828 gold strike in the Auraria/ Dahlonega area of Northeast Georgia. Prospectors and settlers rushed into Cherokee land; Georgia seized the territory, surveyed the land and carved out 40-acre gold lots, and 160-acre farm lots, which were distributed in the 1832 land lottery. In 1838-39, the Cherokee were forcibly removed to Oklahoma by federal troops along the Trail Where We Cried, as translated from Cherokee language. The frontier soon was connected to established towns via the Western and Atlantic (W&A) Railroad. The railroad eventually would run from Marthasville (later renamed Atlanta) to Chattanooga, following the same route as the Peachtree Trail, just north of Acworth. By the early 1840s, the railroad was completed as far north as Acworth, where a water stop, Northcutt Station (named for railroad agent Alexander Northcutt), was established. Thus, the W&A Railroad determined where the town would sit, as newcomers settled near the tracks.
Acworth’s Main Street, “when cotton was king.” 20
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In 1843, Joseph Gregg, a local railroad engineer, renamed the small settlement after his hometown in Acworth, New Hampshire. By the late 1840s, Acworth was “a small village ... in the midst of a thickly settled country,” with a population of 50. On Dec. 1, 1860, the eve of the Civil War, the town was incorporated, with its limits extending in a half- mile radius from the W&A Depot at Main and Lemon streets. Acworth and the railroad played important roles in the Civil War. Union and Confederate forces fought for control of the tracks from Chattanooga to Atlanta, for strategic and supply purposes. In early June 1864, Union Gen. William T. Sherman and his troops camped in Acworth. Minor skirmishes and major battles occured in the area: New Hope Church on May 25, Pickett’s Mill on May 27, Dallas on May 28 and Kennesaw Mountain on June 27. Acworth homes and churches served as field headquarters and hospitals. After the capture of Atlanta, the closest battle to Acworth occurred on Oct. 5, the Battle of Allatoona Pass. On Nov. 13, 1864, Sherman’s troops burned much of Acworth, leaving fewer than a dozen structures, as they set off on their march to the sea.
Main Street in the late 1920s. Albert J. Durham established Durham Drugs, across the street from the train depot. Believed to be the oldest drugstore in Cobb County, Durham Brothers became a Rexall Store in 1914. By the 1920s, its modern soda fountain ensured its status as a teen hangout. George Gober Lacey purchased the business in 1943, and Lacey Drugs still exists today.
Acworth families scattered; farms and businesses were shattered. After the difficult Reconstruction years, Acworth began recovering. The value of farmlands doubled between 1870 and 1890. The town boasted two flour mills and a tannery. It was a regional center for cotton warehousing, ginning and transport. In 1880, Acworth reportedly shipped 6,000 cotton bales annually, along with large quantities of dried fruit, flour and leather, while several highly valued gold mines in the vicinity paid satisfactory dividends. With the scourge of bad weather and the boll weevil in the late 1910s and early 1920s, the city attempted to diversify the cotton economy. Acworth residents aggressively pursued industrial growth. The Acworth Board of Trade was established in 1907 to advance the economy. In the 1920s, the city advertised for new residents, businesses and tourists, and offered city and county tax exemptions for five years to new industries. The close proximity of the railroad was touted, as well as Acworth’s proximity to major markets. A city booster wrote in 1929, “Acworth wants you to make your home here ... if you are no drone and are honest.” By this time, Acworth had three
major textile mills, employing hundreds of workers. In 1915, after the start of the automobile era, the unpaved Main Street became part of the Dixie Highway, the first interstate highway to link the urban North to the rural South, and Florida vacation spots. By the summer of 1926, Main Street was paved with a contract that included convict labor. The most direct Dixie Highway route, from the Great Lakes to Florida, was completely paved in the fall of 1929. In the height of the vacation season that year, more than 800 tourist automobiles were expected daily. During its Dixie Highway heyday, Acworth boasted a Victorian downtown, churches, three textile mills, a chenille toy factory, gas stations, automobile dealers, a tourist court, diners, a bowling alley, a movie theater and a hotel. Abbie Parks, an Acworth resident, co-authored pictorial essays on regional history and collaborated on a book celebrating Acworth’s 150th birthday that featured anecdotal history and family photographs.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
July events sponsor is Bob Brooks from American Eagle Mortgage.
July 8
Alive After Five
5:30-7:30 p.m. Location TBD
July 13
Morning Jolt
7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive Networking event that focuses on exchanging referrals with one another.
July 15
Women’s Business Network 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Center Street Tavern 4381 Center St.
July 27
Morning Jolt
7:45-9 a.m. The Cowan Historic Mill 4271 Southside Drive
Aug. 5
ABA Luncheon
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Acworth Community Center 4361 Cherokee St.
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Veterans are honored at Cauble Park for Acworth’s July 4th Concert and Fireworks with the playing of the military anthems and displaying the flags of the different branches. Last year’s event was canceled due to COVID-19; photo is from the 2019 event.
Enjoying Our Freedoms in Acworth BY KIM WIGINGTON
This July, I can’t help but think about freedom, even how we experience it in small ways and conveniences. In addition to celebrating our freedom as a nation, I’m grateful we also can celebrate the lifting of many COVID-19 restrictions. I’m thankful businesses are open, in-person meetings have resumed and traveling is easier. It is important to remember freedom isn’t free. We all made sacrifices and experienced loss during the pandemic. I am thankful that my family and my business made it through to the other side. I also realize that not everyone was so lucky. This July, I just want to say thank you to the essential workers in hospitals, restaurants, grocery stores, delivery companies and pharmacies, who had to meet people face-to-face to get us to this point. Thank you to the people who risked their lives by working at COVID-19 testing sites and administering vaccines. Acworth is open for business thanks to you. We are Acworth. Moving forward united and strong!
Kim Wigington is the president of the ABA, and serves as chairwoman of the Acworth Downtown Development Authority. She is the founder and director of Brookwood Christian School. She and her husband have lived in Acworth for 16 years and have two adult daughters.
Celebrations!
ANNOUNCEMENTS ARE FREE! Email to: Edit@AroundaboutMagazines.com August deadline is July 14. Please specify Around Acworth.
Allauna Anderson
Age 13 on July 9 You’re officially a teenager! You are growing up to be a beautiful intelligent young lady. Love, Ricky, Mommy and Aaliyah
Priscilla Ellis
Happy birthday Priscilla on July 3. May God continue to bless and keep you safe. Love, your family and friends
Victor Jones
Age 55 on July 12 Happy birthday! We love you, Jennifer, Cierra and Josh
Hailey Hinton
Congratulations on your promotion to high school! All your hard work has paid off, and we are so excited for the next chapter at North Cobb! Love, Mom, Dad, Lacy, Uncle Jimmy, Aunt Angie, Savannah and Ethan
Mother Charlie Mae Griffin
Age 97 on July 13 Happy birthday! Thank God for blessing her with long life, love and a sound mind. We love you, your family and friends
Aniyah LeMaire
June 10 Happiest of birthday blessings to Aniyah! With love from family and friends. Enjoy!
Kylie Kirk
Congratulations on graduating from Allatoona High School! AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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ACWORTH
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Citizens Police Academy Returns BY WAYNE DENNARD
After a yearlong hiatus, I am pleased to announce that we are resuming our annual Citizens Police Academy (CPA) on Aug. 23. In the past, the CPA has been our most popular community outreach activity, for the public and staff alike. Officers throughout the department look forward to spending time with members of the community and sharing information about law enforcement topics that they are passionate about. The CPA offers the public an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge, skills and abilities required on the job in the law enforcement community. In the past, students of the CPA have had the opportunity to learn from members of the Acworth Police Department, the district attorney’s office, the office of the medical examiner and our 911 communications officers. The August CPA is a 14-week program, consisting of weekly classes. One of the highlights of these classes is the firing range experience. Students will have the opportunity to learn from a police firearms instructor, and will be able to participate in exercises on the firing range. After successful completion of the course, participants will be offered the opportunity to schedule a ride-along with an Acworth Police officer. Our August session is nearly full, but we will offer a CPA class at our traditional time in March, 2022. Be on the lookout for upcoming dates and 24
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A trip to the firing range is a highlight of the Citizens Police Academy.
registration information announcements in January on social media. In addition to the CPA, we have good news to share about our chaplain program. Mike Lindeman of Northstar Church has agreed to join Lee Gambrell of Summit Baptist Church as one of our departmental chaplains. Chaplains serve an important function at the police department. They are available to offer support to officers in need, while being available on-call to
help citizens in times of need. Gambrell has served in this capacity for a number of years, and we are grateful to have Lindeman join our team. During the past year, we were forced to slow down our pace, but now it’s full steam ahead. We are looking forward to lots of exciting upcoming events and activities. Please be sure to like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for the most recent updates and information about upcoming events.
Wayne Dennard has served as chief since 2012 and has lived in this community for more than 40 years.
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AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Rob’s Rescues
A Mission to Unchain Floyd County
This dog and cat are at Cobb County Animal Services. The dog’s name is Willy. He is 3 years old and a medium-sized beagle mix. He has a great attention span and seems like an easy going dog. He has brindle coloring and loves to be outside. I am sure he would also love to lie down with someone and watch TV on the couch.
What does the Rome Planning Group do?
This cat’s name is Chanel. She is a small, gray tabby. She is 3 years old and loves to be held. She is not very needy, but she likes attention.
Rob with 3-year-old Willy.
Rob and gray tabby, Chanel. 26
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I go with a group of volunteers called the Rome Planning Group every quarter to help dogs and cats in Rome, Georgia. I interviewed Rachel Meier Sala of Floyd County Animal Alliance, who organizes this outreach. Thank you to Bridgemill Pets, Frida’s Foundation and Pet Buddies Food Pantry, which donate food to the outreach.
We make up Unchain Floyd County, and we are working toward the ultimate goal of enacting a full tether ban for the dogs of Floyd County. While we work toward changing the laws and conditions, we bring some small comforts to the animals that have to live in these deplorable conditions daily. We bring food, flea meds, dewormer, dog houses, toys, treats and straw to chained or outside dogs and cats. We also get as many spayed and neutered as possible, with owners’ permission and funds.
What are the main problems you face in Rome?
There is a lack of enforcement regarding conditions for dogs. They have no tether ban yet, so dogs can be chained outside 24/7. This type of chaining breeds negligence and mistreatment, and the laws are just not clear enough for animal control to do their jobs. There are no spay and neuter laws, so you see that overpopulation is a major issue. The dogs that we assist have owners that can barely take care of themselves; they have no business having multiple dogs or cats, or any animals for that matter. Many animals do not have basic needs met unless we supply them.
How and why did you start this group?
I started this group about seven years ago. I worked in Rome, and my father lives there. I noticed the sheer number of chained dogs, living in filth and starving. I started posting for help, and that’s when I connected with Monika Wesolowski, who had been helping dogs on her own. From there, the group grew to a solid foundation of amazing volunteers who are regulars, including the W-Underdogs. We have multiple individuals who consistently do the dirty work, and we couldn’t do this without them.
Rob with Rachel Meier Sala of Floyd County Animal Alliance.
What are some success stories that you have? We do have many success stories, thankfully, too many to count over the years. So many rescue groups are willing to help us with dogs and cats that are surrendered. We have saved dozens of dogs off of chains and starving street cats. Many times, the owners will realize that they cannot offer proper care, and they want better for the animals. We can usually find rescuers or adopters to help. The change in a dog off of a chain, or a cat that gets regular meals, is incredible and heartwarming. We also count every spay or neuter as a win, and have worked with No More Puppies GA recently to get multiple animals fixed.
What do you hope to accomplish?
We hope to accomplish better living conditions, including a tether ban and spay and neuter ordinances. Floyd County Animal Control, now called Public Awareness Welfare Services (PAWS), has a new director, Jeff Mitchell, who is making improvements. But a lot still needs to be done, and they need a lot of help.
How can I, and the community, help? We always need community support, especially local. We need letters to commissioners asking for change. We always need “boots on the ground” to help, but we hope to not have to go and do so much one day. We need the community to stand up for animals and say that the conditions that they are living in are not OK.
Rob Macmillan is on a mission to help shelter dogs and cats. On Facebook @robsrescues. www.robsrescues.com.
Affordability in Current Housing Market BY MALINDA HOWE
It’s crazy to think that, as of April 22, the national median sale price for homes hit a historic high of $329,900, according to the National Association of Realtors. Who remembers the years when the median home price was $200,000 or less? The good news is that Acworth still ranks high in offering affordable housing. See how the cities in Cobb County ranked in median home price for single family homes and townhouses/ condominiums:
Single Family Home Average Price 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Clarkdale, $190,000 Austell, $235,000 Powder Springs, $315,000 Acworth, $315,250 Mableton, $327,410 Kennesaw, $330,000 Marietta, $385,000 Smyrna, $434,200 Atlanta Cobb, $763,000
Townhouse/Condominium Average Price 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Austell, $203,374 Acworth, $231,360 Marietta, $243,000 Kennesaw, $255,000 Powder Springs, $267,000 Mableton, $304,000 Smyrna, $307,250 Atlanta Cobb, $350,000
For those in the market for new-construction homes, Acworth has you covered. Here are a few of the newest housing developments available in the Lake City:
• Terraces at Logan Road – 34 townhomes by Fortress Builders. https://builtbyfortress.com. • Heritage at Acworth – 25 townhomes by John Weiland. www.jwhomes.com. • Rosewood Farm – 128 townhomes and 56 detached cottages located off of Baker Road. • Carruth Circle – 14 townhomes located off of Carruth Circle and Southside Drive. • Cowan Road – 50 townhomes. • Beckett’s Walk – 85 single family homes by Waterford Homes, Inc., starting from the high $600,000s. Located at the corner of Cheatham Road and Old Stilesboro Road. www.waterfordhomes.com. • Courtyards at Camden – A 55-plus active adult community with 95 homes by Traton Homes starting from the mid-$400,000s. www.tratonhomes.com. • Westside Farm at Cobblestone – A 55-plus active adult community with 24 villas by Elevation Builders, starting from the low $400,000s. Located on Acworth Due West Road, near Nance Road. www.westsidefarmatcobblestone.com.
Malinda Howe is a broker and owner of Anchor Realty Partners. Howe is also vice chairwoman of the Acworth Tourism Board.
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The KSU EMBA class of 2021 graduation celebration.
GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT
Acworth resident and 2021 EMBA graduate Kristian Adams with her husband, Greg, at the program’s graduation dinner. Age: 35 Current Position: Technology Account Executive at SHI Years of experience: 15 in the IT Hardware, Software and Services industry. Family: Kristian and Greg have three sons, Kelli, 15, Traci, 7 and Jace, 6. 28
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Kennesaw State Offers Ways to Earn an MBA T
he 2021 CEO Magazine Global Executive MBA Rankings are out, and Kennesaw State University’s (KSU) Executive MBA Program has been ranked No. 1 in Georgia, No. 2 in the nation and No. 8 in the world — not surprising, given the rapid growth of the university in both student body and reputation. KSU is now the second largest university in Georgia and the Michael J. Coles College of Business is one of the largest business schools in the state, with more than 7,000 students and 160 faculty members. Coles College offers bachelor’s degrees in 11 majors and 16 minors, six graduate degree programs, dual-degree options and executive education programs. For those looking to get an advanced degree, KSU offers three MBA programs designed to meet students’ individual needs and preferences.
1
The Executive MBA (EMBA).
This program is designed for working professionals, typically manager and above, who want to
enhance their business acumen and advance their career. Classes are held one weekend per month, making this an ideal option for completing the degree while working full time. Project- and team-based, this program uses an applied integrated curriculum, combining business acumen, leadership and strategy, and is designed to be applicable instantly in the workplace. Teams are composed of individuals with diverse backgrounds, giving participants the opportunity to learn from other industries. Since 50%-75% of EMBA students do not have undergraduate business degrees, the first semester is foundational and covers accounting, economics and finance. The program only enrolls one cohort per fall semester, and begins with an opening residency and weekend retreat. During the retreat, students participate in an Income|Outcome board game, where teams compete to run successfully a fictional company that manufactures royals, a generic term for any product. The primary objective of the simulation is to
s Three A Degree improve the student’s financial literacy. While the learning objective of the game is apparent, there’s a more subtle secondary benefit and objective. This is the first true teaming exercise, and it occurs in a high-pressure environment. The program culminates with an international residency, where students experience the culture and climate of South America and participate in global problemsolving and decision-making through an in-country consulting project.
2
Evening MBA (EvMBA).
This is one of the top ranked part-time MBA programs in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report and CEO Magazine. The program provides the analytical and strategic business skills working professionals need to take charge of their careers. EvMBA students pursue their degrees on a part-time basis, so there is no interruption in their professional life. In fact, many students receive promotions, additional responsibilities and
assignments to key projects long before graduating. “Without a doubt, my experiences in the EvMBA program helped upskill me and give me the confidence to take this leadership role in my career,” said Alexander Nixon, a current MBA candidate who recently accepted the role of director of consumer insights for a leading pasture-raised egg producer. “The program helped me along so much, personally and professionally,” he said. Students enrolled in the EvMBA program enjoy flexibility in locations and rate of pursuit. Classes are offered in three metroAtlanta locations: in Kennesaw (on the KSU Campus), at the Cobb Galleria (across I-285 from Truist Park), and at the City Springs Complex in Sandy Springs. Students can choose to pursue their degree at a single location or choose the locations most convenient to their home or office. Most students finish the EvMBA program in two years, by taking two classes per semester, but they have the flexibility to take as long as six years to complete their degree.
program. Many WebMBA students feel a great connection to their classmates and faculty, often meeting in person and choosing to walk together in their graduation ceremonies. Many of KSU’s EvMBA faculty also teach in the WebMBA program. WebMBA students receive in-depth instruction from faculty who also have significant consulting and/or practical expertise in their field of study. The faculty’s commitment to staying connected to the business community produces a modern curriculum in which students are exposed to current business issues and are equipped with the relevant skills to develop impactful solutions. This accelerated format allows working professionals to deliver significant value to their employers or their business. The KSU WebMBA is the epitome of a fully accredited, streamlined, general MBA.
3
WebMBA. This program is ranked as one of the top online MBA programs in the nation by Princeton Review, U.S. News and World Report and CEO Magazine. The WebMBA also is part-time, designed for working professionals. This virtual, team-based program features a lockstep structure in which students complete two classes per semester for five consecutive semesters, earning their MBA in 20 months. Since 2001, the WebMBA has offered the convenience of completing the degree online anytime from anywhere. The team-based approach helps students develop an organic network, something that isn’t always a feature of online programs. Students work in the same team throughout the process, which provides additional perspective, experience, personalization and accountability unique to this
Team True Grit celebrates award for best business plan.
For more information on KSU’s MBA programs, email: ksuemba@kennesaw.edu. 470-578-6862 | ksuemba.com Facebook: EMBAKSU Instagram: KSUEMBA Twitter: @EMBAKSU AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Are Price Increases the New Normal? BY ELISABETH STUBBS
It’s summertime. You need new appliances, pool supplies or meat to grill. You are ready to make a purchase: a new refrigerator, a new HVAC system, chlorine for your swimming pool, chicken. But there’s a problem. You can’t find it anywhere. Or, if you can find it, the prices are ridiculously high, like plywood, a used car or steak. So what’s going on? Demand is outpacing supply, and prices are going up, if you can get the product at all. Costs to ship products have increased dramatically, especially on imported items. You may be wondering what this has to do with flooring. Well, similar challenges are being faced in the flooring industry. U.S. manufacturers of hardwood flooring, laminates and carpet padding are having a hard time keeping up with demand. They are selling products as quickly as they can make them. If the product is imported, such as most luxury vinyl plank flooring, there are extensive delays and costs involved with receiving the product. It’s a challenging time. Normally, when clients have to wait on flooring, they are waiting for installers. Right now, clients are waiting for products. Another challenge is pricing. Every manufacturer 30
AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
we work with has had at least one price increase this year. As of June, some manufacturers were on their third price increase. Unfortunately, that means flooring companies are able to honor only some estimates for 10 to 14 days since pricing changes so quickly. Industry experts do not expect product availability or pricing to stabilize until 2022. The “new normal” for many clients is they either have to wait for exactly what they want, or flooring retailers have to continuously check availability on products to find the color that they love in stock. But don’t give up; everything isn’t on backorder. Contact a trusted flooring expert to assist you during these unprecedented times. Although the “new normal” may make the process a little more difficult than it once was, flooring experts can help you make your home beautiful.
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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A Push to Rebuild America BY RYAN BLYTHE
In June, a bipartisan group of 58 U.S. representatives came together with a $1.3 trillion infrastructure spending plan. This plan would direct $582 billion to roads, bridges and highways over eight years. It includes funding for transit, electric vehicles, broadband, clean energy and the power grid. While the House plan is being considered, 10 senators announced a framework for a $1.2 trillion package. The Senate plan, proposed to be spread over five or eight years, would be paid for by increasing the gas tax at the rate of inflation. It has been nearly 30 years since the gas tax, at 18.4 cents per gallon, was increased. Both bills remain short of the plan President Joe Biden is seeking, which amounts to $1.7 trillion. While the politics may be complicated, there seems to be genuine momentum to pass a large bill this summer. Anyone who travels frequently recognizes that our nation’s roads, bridges and some airports need significant enhancements. The American Society of Civil Engineers has given Georgia a C+ rating on its 2021 infrastructure report card. That doesn’t sound great, but there are more problems across the country. Nationally, America’s infrastructure scores a C-, due to wear and tear on roads, as well as water main breaks happening every 2 minutes, according to Utah State University. There also is a national security issue to be considered. I have served on the Gulf States Shipbuilders Consortium Board for several years, and it is our concern that we need significant investment in our nation’s shipyards. The Navy has 296 deployable ships, and experts advocate for another 50 to 60 ships, to build a larger fleet needed to match those of other countries, like China and Russia. To service today’s fleet, we need modernization, maintenance and expansion projects, including capital improvements from dry docks to updated tools, equipment and facilities. So, if you accept the premise that we need these investments, and if a bill 32
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If an infrastructure bill passes, job openings in select trades could increase by up to 60% over the next decade.
passes, what happens next? The U.S. has its most educated population in history, considering that, for decades, twothirds of all high school students have matriculated to college. Meanwhile, we have a historic number of job openings, along with high demand in trade fields. Georgetown University operates a workforce development center, and its research suggests the U.S. has 30 million jobs paying more than $55,000 annually. These jobs do not require a college degree, but do require technical certificates. In 1990, the U.S. Department of Education reported 25% of high school students were interested in the skilled trades. Today, that number has fallen to 20%, and efforts to remedy this trend are not widespread or proportional to the issue. For example, California has invested more than $200 million to improve its vocational education programs. However, only $6 million has been allocated on marketing those vocational programs to skeptical
audiences, like parents, counselors and principals. The Brookings Institute predicts that an infrastructure bill could increase hiring in select trades by up to 60% over the next decade, compared with 3.7% across all jobs nationally. This prediction is supported heavily by the actions of employers. Huntington Ingalls recently announced plans to hire 3,000 shipbuilding workers. It is reported that Tesla is offering $3,500 sign-on bonuses to work at its new Texas location. Samsung reacted to this by offering $5,000 to new hires. Overall, companies are recognizing the value of skilled laborers, but colleges and universities are still behind in this trend. The past decade has been referred to as the era of disruption in American business, with companies like Netflix and Uber changing consumer behavior. We need a similar disruption in American education; without it, we simply cannot rebuild our great country.
Ryan Blythe is the founder of Georgia Trade School, which for the sixth consecutive year, was named one of the Cobb Chamber Top 25 Small Businesses of the Year.
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A Garden With Wings
The Butterfly House at Smith-Gilbert Gardens BY MASTER GARDENER EXTENSION VOLUNTEER JUDY ABBOTT
If you’ve never been to Smith-Gilbert Gardens (SGG) in Kennesaw, or it’s been a while since your last visit, the seasonal opening of the Butterfly House is the perfect reason to plan a visit. Established in 2016, the Butterfly House is a treat for young and old alike, providing up close and personal encounters with butterflies. The exhibit will be open through July 31, and is included with the price of admission. Timed tickets are required online at https://smithgilbertgardens.com. The SGG horticultural team and garden volunteers have been busy preparing the house in anticipation of the butterfly release. With all that is involved, I asked Lisa Bartlett, garden and education manager at SGG, if she could explain what it takes to create and sustain a butterfly habitat.
What is a butterfly house, and why did SGG want to create one?
A butterfly house, conservatory or lepidopterarium is a facility specifically intended for the breeding and displaying of butterflies, with an emphasis on education. Our goal was and is to educate the public on the relationship of pollinators and the native plants they need.
How many different species of butterflies will be released in the house? Sometimes more, but typically 12 species are released.
What is the total number of butterflies released?
Initially, 2,000 will be purchased and released. Those will breed and populate the house with the next generation.
Are they released at a special time?
We order butterflies from butterfly farms that utilize sustainable and humane practices. At the farm, after emerging from the chrysalis, the butterflies are placed in cellophane envelopes, then packed in an insulated container with dry ice. The dry ice puts them in a state of torpor, a form of hibernation. Shipped overnight, they are released the next day, early in the morning.
Are all of the butterflies native to Georgia? Yes, but some are seldom seen due to habitat loss.
Do you have some favorites?
The one I’m looking at! But, if you’re going to make me choose, I would say our state butterfly, the tiger swallowtail.
Are there specific plants needed to feed the butterflies?
The tiger swallowtail is the state butterfly of Georgia.
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Actually, plants are categorized in two ways: nectar plants, with colorful flowers for the butterflies, and host plants for the caterpillars. Caterpillars are very picky, or “host specific.” For instance, black swallowtails will only eat plants in the carrot family; bronze fennel is a favorite. Monarchs will only eat milkweed. If you want a specific butterfly, find its host plant.
The Butterfly House at Smith-Gilbert Gardens is open through July 31.
How many plants are used?
It takes three, one-gallon plants per caterpillar to feed them properly. There were years when we didn’t have enough, and I had to quickly find “caterpillar fosters” to adopt them. So, hundreds of plants are needed.
When you release butterflies, what happens to them?
As soon as they are released, they start flying around their new home. They’re so happy, they don’t know whether to eat or reproduce.
What are the stages of reproduction?
There are four stages: the egg, the caterpillar, the chrysalis and the butterfly.
If I visit the butterfly house at different times, what will I see? You will see the whole life cycle of the butterfly in one place. You will see the plants that the caterpillars need, and you will see colorful floral displays — ideas to take to your own garden!
What do you hope people take away from their visit? I hope people gain a love and understanding of the importance of these amazing creatures.
Why do butterflies matter in our backyards?
Without pollinators, there would be no wildlife or people.
The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County (MGVOCC) supports the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and strives to improve the quality of life in our community by delivering research-based horticultural information, educational programs, and projects.
Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County is a part of the University of Georgia Extension in Marietta.
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Celebrate the Freedoms of July BY JENNIFER BONN
July is the essence of everything that is American and good. Smack in the middle of summertime, July is filled with parades, picnics and local fairs. Although July Fourth makes this the month that we celebrate independence, there are several reasons the entire month is a celebration of freedom.
July is a vacation month.
The days are longer.
This means freedom for students, teachers and even parents, in some ways. Even though parents must be creative with childcare, they are free from helping with homework and projects. With less school-related stress and more time together to reconnect as a family, we can all form closer bonds.
Longer days give us plenty of leisure time to enjoy our family, friends and fun activities. There is more time to go for a walk, visit with the neighbors or sit on the porch and read, while children play outside.
Summer nights are warm.
The nights are so pleasant in July we want to stay out longer, sip sweet tea, talk and watch the fireflies dance. The long, warm nights give us the freedom to unwind.
Meals come together easily.
When food is easy to prepare, it allows us to enjoy more time at the table. We can grill or pack a picnic to eat in one of the local parks. Pick up some fried chicken, watermelon and biscuits from the grocery store, and you have a feast. This season is the perfect time to choose from a variety of fresh vegetables, whether at the store or farmers markets.
We can take it slow.
The heat in July will slow you down, but this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. If everyone slows down, we have the freedom to enjoy life a little more. Take some time to reflect on your life, your goals and your blessings.
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We have the freedom to leave work behind and relax. We can take some time to rest, care for ourselves, travel or catch up on personal projects. The freedom that vacation time can give us is priceless.
School is out for summer.
We can be healthier.
Fresher fruits and vegetables to eat, more time in the day for ourselves and great weather for physical activity contribute to making us healthier in the summer. Good weather can help improve overall moods as well. Remember that July is the month of liberty, as you enjoy all the freedoms we have. It can be a time of renewal and growth, but it should always be the time when we enjoy the blessings that being Americans offers us. Jennifer Bonn is a French teacher at Mount Paran Christian School, and is working on a book about lessons she learned in the classroom.
Operation Dry Water in Full Force BY GREG FONZENO
Summer means holidays and vacations, and this year, it means conquering cabin fever caused by COVID-19 restrictions. As waterways get more crowded, the likelihood of meeting a boater under the influence of alcohol increases. Each July, the local Lake Allatoona U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary joins the Department of Natural Resources, and other agencies across the country, in the nationally coordinated effort to educate boaters about the dangers of boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The mission, Operation Dry Water (ODW ), is meant to reduce the number of alcoholand drug-related accidents and fatalities on the water. Alcohol use continues to be the top contributing factor in recreational boater deaths, and a leading contributor in boating accidents. There were 30 boating under the influence citations in Acworth in 2020. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is reaching out to our community to encourage those on the water to engage in safe boating practices, which includes keeping alcohol off boats for both operators and passengers. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time on the water much faster than it does on land, due to added stress factors such as the sun, heat, wind, noise and the vibration of the boat. The effect of alcohol on the water is three times faster than on land because of those stressors. To have a great summer on the water, boaters must remain sober and alert while underway. The goal is to enjoy the activity and get home safe. Another way to stay safe is to exercise other safe boating practices, such as enrolling in a boater education course and always wearing a life jacket. The ODW recreational boating safety volunteers, in collaboration with law enforcement in every state and territory, will be at marinas and on the water educating boaters about safe boating practices, and removing impaired operators from our waterways. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary hopes boaters enjoy this boating season, and stay safe by not drinking alcohol while on the water, or operating a boat after consuming alcohol.
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Greg Fonzeno is the public education officer and vice commander of the local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit (Flotilla 22) at Allatoona Lake.
*Qualification is based on an assessment of individual creditworthiness and our underwriting standards. For complete terms and conditions, visit www.CUofGA.org/promo. AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Downtown Acworth Dining Fish Thyme Restaurant and Bar
Nibbles Grill
Seafood 3979 S. Main St., Suite 5657 770-974-2323 www.newsite.fishthymerestaurant.com
Grill/Diner-Breakfast Burgers 4628 S. Main St. 404-312-7597 www.nibblesgrillacworth.com
Bert & Boo's Bake Shop
Fusco's via Roma Italian Trattoria
Pizza By Fuscos
BRIX on Main
J.D.’s Bar-B-Que
1885 Grill
Southern Coastal 4438 Cherokee St. 770-672-0508 www.1885grill.com/welcomeacworth
Bakery 3900 Old McEver Rd. 470-582-6717 www.bertandboos.com Facebook: @bertboos Tapas 4843 N. Main St. 770-693-0077 www.brixonmain.com
Center Street Tavern
American/ Traditional 4381 Senator Russell Ave. 770-917-0004 www.centerstreettavern.com
Dogwood Terrace
American/ Traditional 4975 N. Main St. 770-627-4069 www.dogwoodterraceacworth.com
Doro’s Italian Restaurant Italian 3979 S. Main St.,Suite 250 678-903-2607 www.dorositalian.com
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Italian 4815A S. Main St. 770-974-1110 fuscosviaroma.com Facebook: @fuscosviaroma Barbeque
4424 S. Main St. 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com
Henry’s Louisiana Grill Cajun 4835 N. Main St. 770-966-1515 www.chefhenrys.com
L. Marie’s Southern Cuisine Southern
4417 S. Main St. 770-694-1949 www.lmaries.net
Miss L’s Sandwich Shop Sandwiches
4817 S. Main St. 770-966-9709 Facebook: @Miss-Ls-Sandwich-Shop
Pizza 4815B S. Main St. 678-426-7503 www.pizzabyfuscos.com
Red Top Brewhouse
Pub Grub 4637 S. Main St. 470-893-0425 www.redtopbrewhouse.com
Rico’s Mex Mex Grill Mexican 3770 Southside Dr. 770-917-9791 Facebook: @Ricos-Mex-Mex-Grill
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Senior Activities ALOHA TO AGING
Covenant Presbyterian Church 2881 Canton Road, Marietta 770-722-7641 // www.alohatoaging.org
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group. Meets the
first Tuesday each month at 2 p.m. Group discussion, for the person with Parkinson’s and their care partner, on helpful tips and resources that provide comfort and encouragement.
Dementia Caregiver Support Group. Meets the first Monday each month at 2 p.m. Open to family members who are assisting an aging loved one, in or out of the home. Care provided during meeting, but must RSVP in advance.
CITY OF ACWORTH Parks, Recreation and Community Resource Department 770-917-1234 www.acworthparksandrecreation.org
Mondays
Senior Warriors Gentle Movements. 10-10:30 a.m.
Register online. Learn traditional Korean movements to increase balance, mental focus and movement. Class is instructed by Omar Welch, who is a third-degree black belt and instructor certified by the U.S. Tae Kwon-Do Federation.
Tuesdays
Live Chair Yoga. 10 a.m., July 13-Sept. 14 at the Acworth Community Center. Classes will not be held on Tuesday, Aug. 3 and Sept. 7. Free for residents, $15 for nonresidents. Virtual classes are available for free. Register online. Learn stretch and strengthening exercises, breathing techniques, and more during this low impact class.
Wednesdays
Chair Yoga With Mary. 11-noon. Register online.
Also offered on Mondays. Designed for adults aged 55 and older. This class is conducted in a chair, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.
COBB SENIOR SERVICES North Cobb Senior Center 4100 S. Main St., Acworth // 770-975-7740 www.cobbcounty.org/public-services/senior-services
July 13
Blue Zones: Tips to Lead a Longer and Healthier Life.
10:30-11:30 a.m. Join Keith Mazonkey as he covers different “blue zones,” which are geographic regions that are home to the world’s oldest and healthiest people, and shares their secrets for a longer, healthier and happier life. Available virtually on North Cobb Senior Center’s Facebook page.
July 14
Dye with Jenn. 10 a.m.-noon. Learn how to create dye projects
using different dyes and techniques. Material and scarves of different size varieties will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own cotton T-shirt. This project can be messy, so wear clothes you don’t mind getting dyed.
July 15
Blood Pressure Check. Noon-2 p.m. Stop by for a blood pressure check; knowing your numbers is key to a longer healthier life. Provided by Kathy Ahlberg with Homestead Hospice.
July 19
Jeopardy! 10-11 a.m. Cost is $3 per person. Join the fun for prize trivia. Sponsored by Gaines Park Assisted Living.
July 20
Everything Veterans Trivia 1-2 p.m. Cost is $3 per person. Join the fun for fact prize trivia. Sponsored by DayBreak Village of Kennesaw.
July 22
Meet Up: Apotheos Roastery. 1-3 p.m. Learn how Kennesaw
community changemakers and Atlanta coffee pioneers set out to reinvent the Enlightenment-era coffeehouse as a place where locals gather and share moments of goodness.
VETERAN CONNECTION Meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at the North Cobb Senior Center. Call Mike Nichols at 770-528-1448 for more information on monthly meetings.
July 27
Boosting Your Mind with Food and Fitness. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Your mood can be affected by your eating and exercise habits. Learn how eating well and staying active can help improve your outlook. Presented by Humana.
July 29
Thursdays
Use Your Noodle. 1-2 p.m. Can you use your noodle to exercise? Join the fun for a new way to play your favorite game.
Designed for adults 55 and older, but ages 18 and older are welcome. This class is conducted on a mat, with gentle movements that concentrate on relaxation and strengthening muscles.
Tooth Be Told. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join Dr. Yen Tran with Acworth Premier Dental Care as she discusses ways to keep teeth healthy and disease free.
Gentle Yoga With Mary. 1-2 p.m. Register online.
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July 30
Acworth Parks
For more information, call 770-917-1234, or visit www.acworthparksandrecreation.org.
• Acworth Sports Complex. 4000 S. Main St. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. A 42-acre complex with seven baseball fields, two football fields, multiple practice areas, batting cages, restrooms, two concession stands and parking. The complex is home to the Acworth Baseball Association and the Acworth Football and Cheerleading Association. The complex includes Horizon League, which provides team sport opportunities for children with cognitive and physical disabilities. • Acworth Depot Park. 4794 S. Main St. 8 a.m.9 p.m. Home to the Depot Park History Center, this landmark houses electronic displays telling of Acworth's history, including 19 videos, more than 50 oral histories, and static storyboards.
• Baker Plantation Park. 4790 Baker Plantation Drive. Sunrise to sunset. A half-acre neighborhood park in the Baker Plantation subdivision. Playground, two grills and a picnic pavilion.
• Cauble Park. Home of Acworth Beach, Lake Acworth and Veterans Memorial at Patriots Point. 4425 Beach St. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. A 25-acre park with fishing points, public restrooms, a boat ramp (for electric motor-driven boats only), a boardwalk, beach, rental facilities, two playgrounds and an open play area. Rental facilities include four pavilions, a lakeside gazebo and a beach house. No lifeguard on duty. During operating season (April 17-Sept. 6), there is a $10 nonresident parking fee (card payment only) on weekends from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. No pets are allowed on beach areas and must be on a leash at all times while in the park. • Doyal Hill Park. 4410 Cherokee St. 6 a.m.-11
p.m. Serves as an outdoor interpretive history area featuring public art honoring Acworth’s rich African American history. The park contains a sculpture by Ron Huffman, interpretative historical signage, and a plaza.
• Dallas Landing Park. 5120 Allatoona Drive. 8
a.m.-9 p.m. An 82-acre park located on Allatoona Drive off Main Street. Dallas Landing overlooks Lake Allatoona. The park contains a beach, group pavilion, picnic tables, grills, volleyball court, horseshoe pit and public restrooms. The group pavilion is available for rental. Park is open with a daily, charging a $10 nonresident parking fee (card payment only). No pets are allowed on the beach areas and must be on a leash at all times while in the park.
• East Lakeshore Park. 4449 East Lakeshore Drive. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. The 1.5-acre park includes a playground, picnic benches and an open play area.
Acworth Depot Park
• Frana Brown Park. 4901 N. Main St. 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. The quarter-acre park contains a fountain and benches for relaxation. The park also contains the original bell from the Acworth Methodist Episcopal Church South. The church congregation was established in 1905. The park can be rented for weddings or other small gatherings.
• Logan Farm Park. Main entrance is at 4405 Cherokee St. 6 a.m.11 p.m. A 120-acre park that encompasses the parks formally known as Terrace Drive Park and Tanyard Creek Park. Logan Farm Park includes a nature trail that connects to Cowan Road, Terrace Drive, Cherokee Street, School Street, and McClain Circle. Park contains the Acworth Community Center, a lighted one-third mile walking track around a multipurpose recreational field, a half-acre fishing pond, a pavilion available for rentals, restrooms, Amos Durr Community Field, and a large destination playground, as well as two smaller playgrounds. • Newberry Park. 4321 Toccoa Drive. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. The 12-acre park
contains a baseball field, concession stand and batting cages. Home to the Acworth Baseball Association's Senior League. The baseball field is known as the historic Coats and Clark Field and is for kids ages 13 through 16. The park also includes a passive recreation atmosphere great for picnicking and relaxation.
• Overlook Park. 4636 Lake Acworth Drive. 6 a.m.- 11 p.m. The 1.5-
acre park overlooks beautiful Lake Acworth. The park offers great fishing and picnicking opportunities.
• Proctor Landing Park. 5260 Proctor Landing Road. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Proctor Landing is an 82-acre park along the banks of Lake Allatoona. A beach, two group pavilions, picnic tables, grills, two volleyball courts, two horseshoe pits and public restrooms. Group pavilions are available for rental, except Sundays in May, June and July. Park is open with a daily, charging a $10 nonresident parking fee (card payment only).
• South Shore Park. 4555 Ragsdale Road. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. A 30-acre park with a beach and fishing areas. During operating season (April 17-Sept. 6), there is a $10 nonresident parking fee (card payment only) on weekends from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. For more information please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 770-917-1234.
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July 9, 16, 23
Walk-A-Storytime
Discover a new interactive storytime rhyme in the amphitheater each week this summer. Follow the signs along the marked path to participate in this fun family activity that encourages physical movement and literacy skills. Scan the QR code at the end of the walk to watch a video about how to do the rhyme at home.
July 12, 19
Family STEM Nights
@ the Library
North Cobb Regional Library
Bring the family to the amphitheater on Mondays this summer from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for a fun STEM activity. Activities may include making paper circuits, rubber band helicopters and experimenting with chemical reactions. Registration opens online at 10 a.m. the Thursday before. In case of rain, activities will move indoors. Contact the Children’s Department with questions, 770-801-5322.
3535 Old 41 Highway, Kennesaw 770-801-5320. www.cobbcat.org/venue/north-cobb-regional-library
July 13, 20
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Mondays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays
Stop by for songs, stories and rhymes to enhance early literacy and social skills from 10:30-10:50 a.m. or 11:30-11:50 a.m. Parents or caregivers are expected to stay and participate in all activities. Registration opens online at 10 a.m. the Thursday before. All storytime participants must be on the registration list; no walkins allowed. Masks are encouraged for all adults and children age 5 and older.
SUMMER ADVENTURE CHALLENGE www.cobbcounty.org/library/learning-programs/summer Cobb Library System’s fun, social and entertaining summer adventure challenge is open through July 31. This year, it’s easier and more exciting for all ages to enjoy reading and learning all summer:
Young Children
Sign up young kiddos to begin building language and reading skills. Reading to young children, even infants, increases word recognition and vocabulary.
Students K-12
Students are at risk of losing two-three months of reading and math skills during the summer. Keep students learning and engaged by encouraging them to complete the summer adventure challenge.
Adults
Make some time to experience the joys of reading; it’s a great way to relieve stress and engage the brain.
TEEN CRAFT EVENTS 2-3:30 p.m., ages 12-18. All supplies provided. Registration required. All attendees will be in a large room in the library with ample space to spread out. All attendees will be required to adhere to all library policies. For more information, email kristin.gwin@cobbcounty.org or call 770-801-2747.
July 15: Alcohol inks. These inks stain. Wear appropriate clothes in case of an accident. Gloves will be provided. July 22: Beginner weaving.
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Family Storytime
July 13-15, 20-22 North Cobb Play Cafe
10 a.m.-3 p.m., ages 2-7. Stop by the Play Cafe in the North Cobb Library amphitheater on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays this summer, weather permitting, for self-directed outdoor play stations. No reservations required. Bring snacks.
July 15, 22
Meetups for Special Needs Adults
10:30-11:30 a.m., for adults with special needs and their caregivers. Meet new friends and enjoy stories, crafts, games, movement and music. No registration is required. For more information, email Kristin.Gwin@ cobbcounty.org or Vidhya.Jagannathan@cobbcounty. org, or call 770-801-5320.
July 27
Cover to Cover Book Discussion
Join the July book discussion at the library from 2-3:30 p.m. This month’s title is Ta-Nehisi Coates’ 2019 novel, “The Water Dancer.” Copies of the hardcover book are available at the library. E-book and audio e-books are available via library users’ Overdrive or Libby accounts. For more information, email virginia.everett@ cobbcounty.org or call 770-801-5320.
Reads that Ease Back-to-School Jitters Back-to-school season seems like the most cringeworthy time of year, but it doesn’t have to be. Our friends at the North Cobb Regional Library have put together a list of available books that might help as we count down to August. Whether your children are nervous about their first day of school or simply hoping to hold on to some of that summer fun, we hope these books can put a smile on their faces.
“I Got the School Spirit” by Connie Schofield-Morrison
Connie Schofield-Morrison’s high-energy, rhythmic book is filled with fun onomatopoeia that capture the sounds of the school day, and award-winning Atlanta artist Frank Morrison’s urban mannerism illustrations pop off the page.
“The King of Kindergarten” by Derrick Barnes
Derrick Barnes walks readers through a fantastic first day of kindergarten using humor and whimsy. Vanessa BrantlyNewton’s playful illustrations are the perfect backdrop for this jubilant first-day-of-school story.
“We Don’t Eat Our Classmates” by Ryan T. Higgins
Ryan T. Higgins writes and illustrates hilarious books for kids, and this one is no exception. Penelope is a little T. Rex embarking on her first day of school. She struggles with an unfortunate appetite for her classmates, but learns empathy after a toothy encounter with the class pet.
“Me and My Fear” by Francesca Sanna
Francesca Sanna has crafted a lovely, gentle story for children about managing fear and anxiety. Her illustrations are likewise lovely and gentle, yet vibrant and bold at the same time.
“I Will Be Fierce” by Bea Birdsong
Bea Birdsong’s back-to-school story is a call to adventure and a proclamation of courage as her heroine navigates the school day with declarative statements of bravery. Nidhi Chanani’s cartoon illustrations are joyful and vibrant.
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson
Jacqueline Woodson’s prose is beautiful, and her message empowers children to embrace their own unique stories. Rafael López’s vibrant, textured illustrations make this book a visual delight.
“Chu’s First Day at School” by Neil Gaiman
Novelist, comic book creator, screenwriter, and voice actor, Neil Gaiman, also writes picture books. This book is part of the adorable “Chu’s Day” series, and it is oh-so-cute, just like the rest of Chu’s adventures. Veteran illustrator Adam Rex brings this story to life in his typical semi-realistic illustration style that is fun and colorful.
“Your Name is a Song” by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow’s melodic prose weaves a story about celebrating what makes you different. After a little girl comes home from school upset that no one can pronounce her name, her mother teaches her to sing her name. Luisa Uribe’s soothing color palette and whimsical illustrations are absolutely beautiful!
“The Pigeon Has to Go to School” by Mo Willems
Pigeon is always a crowd pleaser with the 10-and-under crowd. Mo Willems’ comical character Pigeon is up to his old shenanigans. This time he doesn’t want to go to school, and he is going to try every excuse in the book until he discovers that he just might like school. Just wait until he discovers what mode of transportation he will take to get to school!
“Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes”
by Eric Litwin Our favorite feline rockstar bebops through his first day of school in stylish kicks as he grooves through the day to a back-to-school song. Eric Litwin and James Dean’s lovable Pete the Cat is here to help you rock your first day of school. AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Around & About JULY
A drive-in movie will be shown at Big 10 Shanty Park in Kennesaw around dusk. Pack
your car with your favorite snacks and drinks, bring your outdoor chairs and blankets and enjoy a screening of “The Sandlot.” Park opens at 8 p.m. Register at cobbcounty.org/parks.
Fun Night will be held at NorthStar 14 Family Church, 6-8 p.m. Join a night of fun with
inflatables, water slides, ice cream, hot dogs and more. Visit https://northstarchurch.org/event/family-funnight-3 for details.
Open mic nights are every third Friday 16 through September, at the pedestrian underpass
off Main Street in downtown Kennesaw. Local artists will perform, 6-8 p.m. If you are interested in performing, or want more information, send a message to Elevated Events on Facebook. An outdoor movie will be shown in Swift24 Cantrell Park in Kennesaw, 6-10 p.m. “Trolls
World Tour” will be projected on a giant inflatable screen at the park after sundown. Large family squares are painted on the field to ensure social distancing. Attendees are welcome to bring blankets and chairs. Food vendors are available, beginning at 6 p.m., or visitors can bring their own food to the park.
Eyes of Freedom: Lima 29-31 The Company Memorial will be held in
Tanyard Creek Overlook at the Acworth Community Center. The nationally traveling tribute is free and open to the public, featuring 23 life-sized portraits of the fallen Marines and Navy corpsmen of Lima Company. Stop by, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., on Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday. More information can be found at www.limacompanymemorial.org.
Summer Classic Car Cruise will be on 31 Main Street in downtown Acworth, 4-9 p.m.
For more information, email jchase@acworth.org or call 770-917-1234.
AUGUST
21
The fourth annual Acworth-Cobb Dragon Boat Festival will be held at Dallas Landing Park, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The boat race and festival will benefit Loving Arms Cancer Outreach, a nonprofit that supports cancer patients in the community. Visit https:// acworthdragonboatfest.com for more information, to form a race team, or to donate items for prizes. 44
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Acworth’s first Pizza, Pints & Pigskins was a popular event in 2019. Photo by Ed Selby.
SEPTEMBER Pizza, Pints & Pigskins will be at Logan
11 Farm Park, noon-10 p.m. Admission is free.
Bring the whole family for food and fun, and kids can play in the Kids Zone. Grab a cold beverage from the beer garden, and help judge the best pizza during the contests. End the night with The Return — The Ultimate Beatles Tribute Band, in concert starting at 8 p.m. Reserved tables will be available to purchase for the concert. For information, call 770-423-1330 or e-mail billwatson@jrmmanagement.com.
MARIETTA GLOVER PARK CONCERT SERIES The free concerts begin at 8 p.m. at Glover Park. Only blankets and lawn chairs are allowed. 770-794-5601.
July 30: Next Level Band Aug. 27: Glow Band Aug. 28: Paradocs Sept. 24: The Big Chicken Beatle Band
FARMERS MARKETS Through Oct. 29
Acworth Farmers Market is open 8 a.m.-noon Fridays
at Logan Farm Park. Market customers will have a wide variety of garden-ripe Georgia grown vegetables, eggs, cheese, bedding plants, fresh baked bread, pies, cakes, honey and jams. For information, call 770-917-1234.
Through Dec. 18
Woodstock’s Farm. Fresh. Market. Now open for the season on Saturdays on Market Street. Hours are 8:30 a.m.noon. Details available at www.visitwoodstockga.com.
Through Aug. 11
Kennesaw Farmer’s Market is open 3:30-7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, at Kennesaw First Baptist Church. Details available on the Kennesaw Farmers Market Facebook page.
Through Aug. 12
Mableton Farmers Market is open 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.,
Thursdays, at Mable House Complex. Details available on the Mableton Farmers Market Facebook page.
Through Sept. 25
Dallas Farmers Market is open for the season at Regions Bank in downtown Dallas. Hours are 8 a.m-noon. Details available on the Dallas Farmers Market Facebook page. Marietta Square Farmers Market is year-round on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information visit, www.mariettasquarefarmersmarket.com
NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR Sept. 23-Oct. 3
The fair is open Monday through Thursday, 4-11 p.m.; Fridays, 4 p.m.-midnight; Saturdays, 10 a.m.midnight; and Sundays, 12:30-10 p.m. The 88th annual fair will be at Jim R. Miller Park in Marietta. The largest fair in metro Atlanta will feature live music, ground acts and shows, blue-ribbon competitions for handmade goods and items, concerts and delicious fair food. Parking is $5; gate admission is $10. Children 10 and younger are free. Online advance tickets are $7 at www.northgeorgiastatefair.com. Halfprice tickets are $5 at all metro Atlanta O’Reilly Auto Parts stores, Sept. 1-Oct. 3. Concerts are free with fair admission:
Sept. 24: We Are Messengers Sept. 25: Chris Lane Sept. 29: Gabby Barrett Sept. 30: Jon Langston Oct. 1: Chase Rice Oct. 2: Mark Wills
For more information, visit the website or call 770-423-1330 (770-528-8989 after Sept. 7).
KENNESAW GRAND PRIX 5K SERIES 7:30-9 a.m. Races are timed and USA Track and Field. Festivallike atmosphere for beginner runners, walker and families.
July 10: The Sports Fanatic Aug. 14: Dream Dash Sept. 18: The Great Locomotive Chase 5K Oct. 30: The Garden Gallop COBB PARKS ANNUAL FISHING RODEO The annual competition is open to children ages 3-16, and trophies will be awarded for the five biggest fish overall. Each event is 9-11 a.m. The entry fee is $5 per child. For registration, or more information, visit cobbcounty.org/parks.
July 10: Lost Mountain Park in Powder Springs July 17: Ebenezer Downs Park in Marietta July 24: Hyde Farm Park in Marietta July 31: Furr Family Park in Powder Springs
Ride the Georgia Mountain Lift to experience the sights and sounds from above at the 2021 North Georgia State Fair. AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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School News
Cobb Schools Class of 2021 Valedictorians, Salutatorians
Student Earns Full Scholarship
Sanaye Lewis of Acworth recently graduated from Kennesaw Mountain High School, and has received a full scholarship to attend Michigan State University (MSU) in the fall, where she plans to major in computer science. At Kennesaw Mountain High School, Lewis was active in marching band, precision ensemble and wind symphony. She was selected from more than 1,300 of the top high school seniors who applied to MSU, participated in interviews and took an intensive general knowledge exam. In all, 17 incoming MSU students have been awarded an Alumni Distinguished Scholarship or University Distinguished Scholarship that will cover full tuition, room and board, and a stipend for up to eight semesters of study. Sanaye Lewis “We are delighted to welcome all of the alumni and university distinguished scholars as well as all of those who took part in the selection processes this year,” said Matthew Zierler, interim dean of the Honors College. “These students have already demonstrated a high level of achievement and intellectual curiosity, and we are looking forward to them bringing their talents and excitement to the Honors College and MSU.” The scholarships are valued at about $130,000 for instate students and approximately $230,000 for out-ofstate students.
Baasil Malik
Jordan Rodgers
This year’s list of valedictorians graduated from Cobb schools with an average GPA of about 4.7. Cobb salutatorians finished with a 4.63 average. Three valedictorians and one salutatorian from Cobb high schools posted GPAs higher than 4.8. In total, 12 valedictorians and nine salutatorians earned GPAs higher than 4.7. The Cobb students will continue their educational journeys at prestigious schools, such as Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Georgia Tech, Northwestern University and the University of Georgia, just to name a few. The high-achieving students plan to study everything from biochemistry, neuroscience and pre-med to acting, interior design, computer science and aerospace engineering.
Allatoona High School Alan Zheng
• Baasil Malik, valedictorian, 4.774 GPA, University of Georgia, pre-med • Jordan Rodgers, salutatorian, 4.712 GPA, University of Virginia, pre-law
North Cobb High School
• Alan Zheng, valedictorian, 4.803 GPA, Georgia Tech, computer science • Sanjana Sharma, salutatorian, 4.797 GPA, Georgia Tech, biomedical engineering Sanjana Sharma
Graduation Rates Soar for Foster-Care Students
Graduation celebration for foster children at the Cobb Safety Village. 46
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A record number of Atlanta-area students in foster care graduated high school this year. The 2021 graduates recently were celebrated with a parade that brought students and program leaders together. A caravan of vehicles traveled through the Cobb County Safety Village last month, with balloons, bells and whistles, so each student could be celebrated. To view the graduation celebration program featuring the graduates’ names, visit https://bit. ly/3wPXmRz.
Bluebird Trail Brings Science to Life BY AMBER IRIZARRY
After a lot of preparation and weeks of anticipation, lower-school students at Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) can hear the charming call of dozens of baby bird hatchlings across the school’s 68-acre campus. February was bluebird month in Georgia, when the Eastern bluebird began the process of seeking nesting spots and crafting its signature cupshaped nest, in anticipation of warmer weather. This spring, MPCS students were front-and-center, supporting the bluebirds and witnessing the entire hatching process. After years of development causing habitat loss, pesticide use and the introduction of non-native species, the bluebird population had been on the decline. Thankfully, due to conservation efforts; restrictions on harmful chemicals, such as DDT; and increased public awareness, the number of bluebirds no longer is declining. MPCS deployed its own nesting boxes on campus during the 2018-2019 school year. This past school year, the bluebird nesting program grew, with seven nesting boxes on campus — one for each grade level from pre-K3 through fifth grade. The boxes are placed in various locations on the MPCS Bluebird Trail. The goal is for each grade level to monitor its own nesting box, with third-graders overseeing a nesting box outfitted with a webcam. “The MPCS Bluebird Trail creates an awareness that allows our students
Some of the 11 bluebirds born in 2020-21 school year.
Students Elise, Carter and Ana enjoy working in the lower-school garden, home of the secondgrade bluebird nesting box, and collecting data about the birds who make their nests in the boxes.
to be purposeful in caring for God’s precious creatures and the environment, while gaining an understanding that all of us have the ability and responsibility to make contributions in caring for this world,” said Tina Baker, lower-school administrator and lower-school academic technology specialist. The goal for the nesting boxes is to attract bluebird pairs — monogamous during the mating season — to the campus. Students in the lower school are able to observe the birds, gaining awareness of the declining bluebird population, while learning more about nature and how ecological impacts affect the environment. One challenge included finding ideal nesting box locations for the sometimes picky bird pairs. House sparrows and European starlings are fierce competitors for nesting spaces, and are much more aggressive than bluebirds. Despite these challenges, the first year of the nesting boxes on campus was successful. In addition to four Carolina chickadee hatchlings, 12 baby bluebirds hatched during the inaugural year. For the 2020-2021 year, lower-school students welcomed 11 baby bluebirds, five Carolina chickadees and two Carolina wrens. A new addition to the program in the spring of 2020 allowed interested fifth-graders the opportunity to serve as
mentors to students in the other lowerschool grades. Students were chosen via an application process managed by fifth-grade teacher Shannon Howard. However, the fifth-grade bluebird mentor program temporarily was halted this season, due to COVID-19 restrictions. As the program gains momentum each school year, the goal is to integrate the nesting boxes further into the lower-school curriculum. Students will continue contributing to scientific research on bluebird populations as they report their observations and data to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s nationwide NestWatch program, which tracks trends in the reproductive biology of birds. Observations will be added to those of thousands of other NestWatchers in a continually growing database used by researchers to understand and study birds. The MPCS program has managed to help increase the local bluebird population, bring awareness of the plight facing the environment, and demonstrate that everyone can make a difference. Families can start by adding a nesting box to their yard. To learn more about the bluebird program at Mount Paran Christian School, or how to build a nesting box, visit mtparanschool.com/bluebirds. AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Community of Faith
Awtrey-Westwood Baptist Church 5855 Awtrey Church Road NW 770-974-0023
Piney Grove Baptist Church 1605 Mars Hill Road 770-428-5122 www.PineyGrove.net
Calvary Baptist Church of Acworth 4361 Westside Drive 770-974-4965 www.CalvaryBaptistAcworth.org
Sardis Missionary Baptist Church 2741 S. Main St., Kennesaw 770-428-4031 www.SardisMBCKennesawGA.org
Cedarcrest Church 4600 Cobb Pkwy NW 678-460-3500 www.CedarcrestChurch.com
Summit Baptist Church 4310 Moon Station Lane NW 770-975-4595 www.SummitChurch.org
BAPTIST
First Baptist Church of Acworth 4583 Church St. 770-974-3021 www.FBCAcworth.com Glade Road Baptist Church 6570 Glade Road SE 770-975-1143 www.GladeRoadBaptist.com
Thankful Baptist Church of Kennesaw 928 Kennesaw Due West Road NW 678-797-0611 www.ThankfulBaptistKennesaw.org The Entire Bible Baptist Church 4980 Cobb Parkway North NW 770-975-1100
Harvest Baptist Church 3460 Kellogg Creek Road 770-974-9091 www.HBCGA.org
Three Taverns Church 3575 Acworth Due West Road 678-856-8002 www.ThreeTavernsChurch.org
Hickory Grove Baptist Church 2862 Hickory Grove Road 770-943-9856
Victory Baptist Church 5717 Priest Road 770-337-0952 www.VictoryBaptist.net
Hillcrest Baptist Church 6069 Woodstock Road 770-917-9100 www.HBCAcworth.org Iron Hill Baptist Church 5172 Groovers Landing Road SE 770-974-2951 www.IronhillBaptist.org Keystone Baptist Church 3303 Dallas Acworth Highway Acworth, Georgia 30101 www.KeystoneOnline.org Lost Mountain Baptist Church 5400 Old Dallas Road, Powder Springs www.lmbc.us Morning View Baptist Church 3750 Dallas Acworth Highway www.MorningViewBaptistChurch.org Mount Olivet Baptist Church 2385 Acworth Due West Road 770-974-8335 New Hope Baptist Church 3800 New Hope Church Road SE 770-974-7612 www.NewHopeChurchAcworth.com New Life Community Church 4160 New Hope Church Road SE 770-529-0509 Pickett’s Mill Baptist Church 7147 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 770-423-0955 www.PMBChurch.net 48
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West Ridge Church 3522 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 770-222-2125 www.Westridge.com Western Hills Baptist Church 700 Mars Hill Road, Kennesaw 770-425-7118 www.WesternHillsBaptist.net Wildwood Baptist Church 4801 Wade Green Road NW 770-428-2100 www.WildwoodBaptist.org Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church 4255 Taylor St. 770-974-8221 www.ZionHillAcworth.com
EPISCOPAL
Christ Episcopal Church 1210 Wooten Lake Road NW 770-422-9114 www.ChristChurchKennesaw.com St. Teresa’s Episcopal Church 5725 Fords Road 770-590-9040 www.StTeresasAcworth.com
JEHOVAH’S WITNESS
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness 2515 Old Highway 92 770-672-6838
JUDAISM
Chabad Jewish Center of Kennesaw 1480 Shiloh Road NW #500 678-460-7702 www.JewishWestCobb.com Congregation Ner Tamid Reform Jewish Synagogue Old 41 Highway NW, Suite 220 678-264-8575 www.MyNerTamid.info
LUTHERAN
Christ Lutheran Church 176 West Sandtown Road SW, Marietta 770-424-2850 www.clcwestcobb.org Living Hope Lutheran Church 3450 Stilesboro Road, Kennesaw 770-425-6726 www.LivingHopeGA.com First United Lutheran Church 3481 Campus Loop Road, Kennesaw 770-427-0325 www.FULC.org
PRESBYTERIAN
Acworth Presbyterian Church 4561 Church St. 770-974-6552 Christ Community Church 2753 Watts Drive, Kennesaw 770-529-2600 www.ChristCommunityCobb.org Heritage Presbyterian Church 5323 Bells Ferry Road 770-926-3558 www.HeritagePres.com Kirkwood Presbyterian Church USA 618 Acworth Due West Road NW, Kennesaw 770-427-3545 www.KirkwoodPC.org Mars Hill Presbyterian Church 3385 Mars Hill Road NW 770-974-4395 www.MHChurch.com
ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church 1618 Ben King Road, Kennesaw 770-428-7139 www.StCatherineRCC.org St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church 6301 Cedarcrest Road 770-485-0825 www.StClareCC.org St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church 680 West Memorial Drive, Dallas 770-443-0566 www.SaintVincentDePaulChurch.org
METHODIST
Acworth United Methodist Church 4340 Collins Circle 770-974-3312 www.AcworthUMC.org County Line United Methodist Church 1183 County Line Road, NW 770-428-0511 www.CountyLineUMC.org Due West United Methodist Church 3956 Due West Road, Marietta 770-427-3835 www.DueWest.org Faith Methodist Meets at Harrison High School 4500 Due West Road, Kennesaw 678-995-9595 www.FaithMethodistChurch.org Kennesaw United Methodist Church 1801 Ben King Road, Kennesaw 770-428-1543 www.KennesawUMC.org
The Church At Acworth 6464 Highway 92 770-924-9161 www.TheChurchAtAcworth.com
Mission For Life Church 2655 Cobb Parkway, Suite 105, Kennesaw 678-613-9256 www.MissionForLife.org
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 5055 Holt Road NW 770-974-9697
Mount Olives Church of God 5065 Cherokee St. 678-651-9042
Cobb Vineyard Church 3206 Old Highway 41 NW, Kennesaw 678-574-0005 www.CobbVineyard.com
New Covenant Full Gospel Inc 5653 Priest Road 770-974-0685
Dayspring Church 6835 Victory Drive, Woodstock 678-401-3069 www.ConnectChurchWoodstock.com Eagle Pointe Church 5100 Old Stilesboro Road NW 770-421-1643 www.EaglePointe.org Empowerment Worship Center 4192 Main St. 770-609-9062 www.EmpowermentWC.org
New Beginnings United Methodist Church 2975 Cobb Parkway NW, Kennesaw 770-421-9980 www.NBUMC.org
Faith Family Church 5744 Bells Ferry Road 770-926-4560 www.FaithFamilyAG.com
Shiloh United Methodist Church 3860 Cherokee St., Kennesaw 770-590-1333 www.NGUMC.org
Federation Of Apostles International Ministries Inc. 4192 S. Main St. Suite B, Acworth. 404-436-1100
OTHERS
Abiding Church 132 North Medical Parkway, Woodstock 678-888-1515 www.Abiding.church Activation Church 221 Dabbs Bridge Road, Dallas www.ActivationChurch.com Acworth Christian Church 4476 Northside Drive 770-974-1358 Acworth Church of God of Prophecy Ministry 3891 Nance Road NW 770-975-1124 www.AcworthChurch.com
Four Points Church 3565 Dallas Acworth Highway 678-402-6632 www.FourPointsChurch.com Freedom Church 3611 Cobb Parkway 770-529-6006 www.FreedomChurch.tv Greater Church Meets at Barber Middle School 4222 Cantrell Road 770-927-8667 www.Greater.Church Household of Faith Bible Church 530 Collins Road, Marietta 770-365-6723 www.HOFBC.org
NorthStar Church 3413 Blue Springs Road 770-420-9808 www.NorthStarChurch.org Northwest Christian Church 3737 Dallas Acworth Highway 770-425-2525 www.NWCC.net Open Doors Church 2011 Hickory Grove Road Prayer & Praise Christian Fellowship Church 6409 Bells Ferry Road, Woodstock 770-928-2795 www.PrayerAndPraise.org River’s Edge Church 3450 Acworth Due West Road NW, Kennesaw 678-318-1918 www.RiversEdgeATL.com RiverStone Church 2005 Stilesboro Road, Kennesaw 678-384-5200 www.RiverStoneOnline.org RockPoint Church 3900 Legacy Park Blvd, Kennesaw 770-648-3070 www.TheRockPointChurch.org Sanctuary Church 700 Mars Hill Road, Kennesaw 770-884-1963 www.SanctuaryInHim.org Unity of Kennesaw Meets at Big Shanty Elementary, 1575 Ben King Road 404-644-0512 www.UnityOfKennesaw.org
Kellogg Creek Church of Christ 3510 Kellogg Creek Road 770-974-2814 www.KelloggCreekChurchOfChrist.org
Victory Church 4625 Highway 92 770-794-7366 www.VictoryGA.com
Bethel A.M.E. Church 4826 School St. 770-905-9539
LifeBridge Church 3102 Loring Road, Kennesaw 770-422-3010 www.MyLifeBridgeChurch.com
Vintage 242 Church 8492 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas 678-506-8550 www.Vintage242.com
Calvary Chapel River Oaks 232 Nelson Street, Cartersville 770-272-6005 www.CalvaryChapelRiverOaks.org
Masjid Suffah 2750 Jiles Road, Kennesaw 770-906-0838 www.masjidsuffah.com
Wholistic Life Ministry 2210 Pine Mountain Road NW, Kennesaw 678-836-9586 www.WLMinistry.org
Branches of Christ 5946 Jacobs Road 770-917-4964 www.BranchesOfChrist.com
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Cobb Photographic Society
Congratulations to each of you who entered the Cobb Photographic Society competition. The topic for the May contest was “churches.” The guest judge was David Batley. The Cobb Photographic Society is a photography club open to photographers of all skill levels. The club meets the first and third Monday of each month. For information, visit www.cobbphotosociety.com.
Color
Jeff Westland - 1st Place (Covid Prayer) 50
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Black & White
Chris Pietrzykowski - 1st Place (Last Parishoner)
Novice
Joy Rogers - 1st Place (Summertime Revival) AROUND ACWORTH | July 2021
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Advertisers
For advertising rates and information Jennifer Coleman 678-279-5502 Jen@AroundaboutMagazines.com
July 2021
ACCOUNTING & TAX Denson Pepper, CPA 678-797-5241 www.densonpeppercpa.com
DENTAL 33
ATTORNEYS/LEGAL SERVICES Williams | Elleby 833-LEGALGA www.gatrialattorney.com
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Gentle Dental Care/Georgia Dental Implants Inside back 770-926-2784 www.georgiadic.com EDUCATION SERVICES
AUTOMOTIVE KAMS Auto Service Center 770-956-4060 www.kamsauto.com
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BUSINESS SUPPORT Lakeside Executive Suites 404-401-0225
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CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS/EVENTS Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue www.mostlymutts.org
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Clean Act Services 770-425-4200 www.cleanactatl.com
Georgia Trade School www.georgiatradeschool.com
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KSU Executive MBA Program Cover, 28-29 470-578-4420 www.ksuemba.com EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Courier Express 678-626-4132 www.courierexpress.net
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Acworth Dragon Boat Festival 39 www.acworthdragonboatfestival.com
COUNSELING Thrive Counseling Center 678-217-7529 www.thrivecounselingcenter.com
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EVENT
CLEANING SERVICES
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FINANCIAL SERVICES
Bay Equity Home Loans Jay White, Area Sales Manager 770-870-0644 www.jayclosesloans.com
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FUNERAL SERVICES
CREDIT UNIONS Credit Union of Georgia 678-486-1111 www.cuofga.org
Daniel Lee DMD, PC 770-974-4146 www.acworthdental.com
GOLD PURCHASING
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Georgia Funeral Care & Cremation Services 678-574-3016 www.georgiafuneralcare.com
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The Gold & Coin Exchange Inside front 770-419-0292 www.goldandcoinexchange.com HAIR SALON élon Salon 770-427-8698 www.elonsalon.com HEALTH & WELLNESS DNC Nutrition Centers 770-529-6683 www.dncnutrition.com
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Your CBD Store-Acworth 678-909-5230 www.acworth459.cbdrx4u.com
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HOME & GARDEN Dayco Systems Heating & Cooling 770-336-7888 www.daycosystems.com
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Enhance Floors & More 770-565-3808 www.enhancefloors.com
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Legacy Custom Blinds 404-430-5288 www.legacycustomblinds.com Mr. Junk 678-Mr-Junk1 [675-8651] www.mrjunk1.com
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Shriver Mechanical 15 770-975-1927 www.shrivermechanical.com Tom Kris & Sons Plumbing 770-529-0799 www.tkandsonsplumbing.com
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OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST TrueVision Eye Care 770-529-7789 www.truevisioneyecare.com
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PEST CONTROL One Dead Bug 404-704-4685 www.onedeadbug.com
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PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Governors MedSpa & Concierge Medicine 678-888-5181 www.governorsmedicine.com
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REAL ESTATE Anchor Realty Partners 7 Malinda Howe, Broker: 404-444-0225 Deborah Hill: 770-361-9200 Office: 770-917-0322 www.malinda-howe.com Century 21 Celina Meador C: 361-463-6170 O: 770-640-6800
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Clear Summit Realty Ken Jones: 770-842-4531 www.clearsummitrealty.com
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Debi Smith Properties Direct: 404-660-6652 Office: 770-240-2004 debismith.atlcommunities.com
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J.D.'s Bar-B-Que 770-974-8434 www.jdsbbq.com
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RETAILERS/ SHOPPING Cotton Mill Exchange 770-992-9294 www.cottonmillexchange.net
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SENIOR LIVING/SERVICES Celebration Village 678-594-3570 www.cvillage.com
Inside front
SOCCER Southern Soccer Assoc. www.ssaelite.com
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RESTAURANTS Doros Italian Restaurant 678-903-2607 www.dorositalian.com
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Since 1996, we have brought relevant, uplifting and reader-driven content to readers. We publish Around Acworth, Around Canton, Around Kennesaw, 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. 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.
OUR PHOTOGRAPHY PARTNERS We work with some of the best professional photographers in the business.
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